The Fate of Two :: Tik/Aom

[nappi23]

I posted this up a while ago at etasia, decided I should post it here also since I spend as much time here as i do there.

Here goes..............

Here's a general summary of the plot.

(Not a Period drama) In the Kingdom of Darajan live love, lies and betrayals that shroud a painful truth that should never have surfaced. However once revealed the lives of two timeless lovers will forever change. Fate has led them here and to each other and will continue to lead them till the end of their journey.

He lived alone, loved alone and survived alone. Raised on the streets Jessdaporn knew of only one loyalty and one trust--himself. She was innocent and naive but held a heart of gold. Shrouded by mystery, Piyada grew in ignorance and lived in bliss. However as fate would have it the lives of these two strangers unconnected in every way yet intricately related beyond time itself will cross paths.

He was consumed by darkness and hate but she has captured his love but as events unravel the two strangers find their world shattered as truths become lies and lies become truths. Dictating her love not only as his savior but his ultimate demise Jessdaporn has to decide between his heart and his loyalty, as the search for truth leads Piyada to shed her naive ways for bitter-sweet revenge--after all it is Fate's workings.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter One: Away From Love

Lada blindly raced into the darkness quick and unyielding, she didn't care if pain struck through her frail body like sharp daggers, she didn't care that her limbs ached from running for hours, all she cared for was her unborn child. She had to survive, she had to keep him alive even if it meant leaving her only love behind. She trampled and trudged over broken twigs and wild trees in order to get away from the men that tried to kill her. She continued to wipe the tears that streamed down her face as she relived the nightmare she went through. Abruptly she tripped over a stump and rolled down an embankment where she laid there, her vision blurred from tears, reluctantly surrendering herself to silence.

"Stupid bitch! How could she get away!?" The slender man clenched his jaws at the thought of her existence.

"Pai, gather up the dogs, now! I want her dead," he said sternly.

He waited too long for this, too long for everything to be ruined by one single woman. He gathered up his strength and marched into the cool night air, his heart heavy with vengeance.

* * * * *
She awoke sore and immobile, lifting her lids only to see white walls and blue curtains instead of the lush green jungle she has been accustomed to for the last few days.

"Glad to see you're awake" a voice called from behind her.

A plainly dressed man greeted her kindly, "you've been sleeping for quite a while now" he chuckled.

"Where am I?" Lada meekly answered.

He moved to sit down near her, she slightly flinched at his actions, "Dear child I found you on my daily trips to the forest to get firewood. You were lying unconscious and I brought you here to recover. May I ask, what happened to you?" the old man queried.

At his comment, Lada quietly cried, "I..I..I was robbed by thieves and I must have fell while they were chasing me" she lied.

"Do you have any family here that can take care of you?"

Lada bit her lower lip to keep back the tears, "No, my husband...he was killed protecting me" she lied again--after all she had no choice she couldn't trust anyone.

The man offered her shelter which she reluctantly accepted. She stayed with the elderly man for nearly a week and each day that passes, she grows weary and agitated, afraid for her baby's well-being. Once she gathered up enough strength Lada planned on escaping the country of Darajan.

"Dear child, I'll miss your presence once you're gone," the old man muttered.

"Thank you for your kindness but I can't stay here for long," she said while packing her things.

"Do you have a destination or a place to stay," he asked worriedly.

Lada paled at the thought and slowly shook her head.

The old man looked at her briefly and pulled out an envelope, "here's some money for your travel and an address--a place to stay if you have no where to go."

Lada couldn't accept his generous offer but he insisted.

Before getting on the train, Lada glanced at the country she has called a home for a little over a year before walking away from her love. She placed her hand on her womb, caressing it gently.

"Parapon," she whispered. "I'll take care of him, darling. He is your only hope."

Looking out the trains' window she watched as the beautiful woods and natural rural environment slowly pass and turn into a dark, polluted urban ghetto. Stepping off the train she stood in front of an old, battered apartment near the riverfront.

Sighing deeply, she sarcastically spoke to no one in particular, "Welcome home."

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Two: Night Owl

“Jessdaporn Suvady! Get down from there this instant� Lada called to her son.

“Coming, mom� Jess replied.

She smiled from ear to ear while looking up at her son of ten years, the love of her life. It felt like yesterday that she was running away and moving into the slums and now her son is safe and healthy.

“Mom, I got us some mangos� he yelped.

“Honey, how many times do I have to tell you, stay away from Mrs. Kai’s fruit trees!� his mom scolded. However he just shrugged his shoulders and raced back into the little shack they gladly call home.

Jessdaporn watched as his mom rubbed his back ever so lightly, gently running her fingers through his untamed hair. His mother was crying again, she always did whenever she caressed him so.

He leaned over to wipe her tears away, “Mommy, don’t cry I’m sorry I remind you of daddy. I’m sorry I made you cry.�

“No, baby. Don’t be sorry. These are happy tears, remember that. I will always love you and your father dearly.�

He returned his mother’s smile, “I love you too� but little did he know that this would be the last time he would ever see his mom this happy and… healthy.

6 years later….

Jess slicked back his raven colored hair with his free hand as he waited patiently for his mark. His almond eyes have increasingly grown accustomed to the darkness of the night over the years and catching prey for him is as easy as an owl looking for his. Jessdaporn snickered lightly as he spotted his fateful victim.

The man was a pedophiler, Jess knew by the way his overgrown belly shook over his half-zipped pants as he exited the bar. Once the man reached his spot, Jess lunged forward quickly with blade in hand. His muffled cries didn’t faze him, he only gripped harder, slicing his pout face with ease “Mr. Lee sends a message� he mouthed.

The man’s eyes bulged at the mention of the name, Jess proceeded to knee his target in the stomach till’ he caved over. He flipped the man up grabbing his bloodied face forcefully, shoving a shiny pistol in his mouth, “Get off Mr. Lee’s turf and if ever you decide to betray him, this gun will be loaded.�

The man nodded his head in acknowledgement as Jess withdrew the gun from his quivering mouth and just as quickly as he came, Jess left never glancing back.


“Night owl, for Mr. Lee� Jess recited over the intercom.

Once the gate opened he was routinely searched and stripped of all weapons. He glanced at one of the guards to his right and seeing his expression, Jess wanted to kick his ass.

“Ain’t you a little too young to be carryin’ a pistol?� the guard asked.

Jess just glared unaffected, the man led him to Mr. Lee who was preoccupied with his “women� to quickly notice.

Jess tossed his cards down on the table, “Mission complete� he muttered nonchalantly hands shoved in his pockets.

Lee pulled back, and handed Jess his pay and a few more cards, quickly returning to his lady friends, many who eyed Jess seductively.

He walked out the building, gun in hand into the cool night air, he’s been running “errands� every now and then to make ends meet and after the death of his mother he had no need to worry about the consequences of his work. He swiftly walked home, returning to an empty house. He put his gun away in the drawer, pulling out his favorite picture. Leaning on his mattress, Jess stroked his mothers’ beautiful face, a face before unhappiness, before weakness; a face before cancer. He closed his eyes but the images and memories following his mothers’ death still haunt his dreams incessantly, prompting him to awake in beads of sweat nearly every night.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Three: Flower Girl

“Piyada, Piyada!� Mrs. Vychandee called. “Where could she be� thought her mother.

She sighed heavily retreating back into the house, too weary to find her overactive daughter.

“Mai, when Piyada comes back give her a bath and send her up to me, understand?�

“Yes, Madame.�


She sat on a large rock with her legs dangling in the water and a flower tucked behind her ear. Piyada giggled at the fishes swimming carelessly in the water, oh how she wished to be that fish she thought. Picking herself up, she skipped and whistled all the way home.

However, her freedom was fleeting, she spotted Mai heading towards her, “Miss Piyada your mother commands you to take a shower and meet her upstairs.�

She nodded sourly at her maid and did her bidding.


Mrs. Vychandee sat in her room once again thinking of her best friend. She looked at their school picture taken overseas many years ago and tears welled her eyes as she thought about the hurtful past.

Hearing a knock on the door Lalita dried her tears quickly, “Come in.�

“Mom, you wanted to see me?�

“Yes honey I did, Da you are 13 years old, you’re not a child anymore. You need to act like a proper lady. I don’t want you wandering aimlessly nor recklessly� her mother scolded gently.

Piyada just pouted her eyebrows scrunching into a crown, “But mother, it’s no fun being a lady,� her mother returned a cold glare silencing her temporarily.

“Go on, Da. That’s all.�

She briskly got up and dragged her feet across the floor as if it weighed a ton.

Mrs. Vychandee only smiled after her daughter, “If only you were here,� she whispered rubbing her friends’ portrait.

“Her behavior reminds me so much of you--vibrant, naïve, full of fire and charm. Odd. Not like me at all, her own mother� Lalita smiled.


Piyada marched downstairs and headed towards her flower garden, a place where she finds relaxation, serenity and oddly enough freedom. She admired the roses, lilies and tulips but she loved the grass flowers most of all.

She strolled the area briskly before setting her sights on her father.

“Daddy,� she ran excitedly clutching her fathers’ neck. “

Hey, there sweetheart, how’s daddy’s favorite girl?�

She answered her father with a cute little pout. “Mother’s at it again. She wants me to be more ladylike and reserved� Da illustrated by curtsying and batting her eyelashes.

Her father chuckled while patting his daughters head, “I’ll have a talk with your mother� her father replied pecking her cheeks.


Mr. Vychandee knocked on Lalita’s door, awaiting an answer from his wife. Once the door opened he stepped inside informing her of Da’s reluctance to become a “lady.�

“Honey I wish you’d let her be, she’s perfect as she is. Maybe even more so.�

Lalita held her husbands hand “I know and understand that but a part of me can’t help but want to protect her. I know it’s wrong but Da reminds me so much of her and I can’t help but think that she’ll meet the same awful fate� Lalita sobbed.

Mr. Vychandee grabbed his wife’s hand and pulled her into an embrace. “Don’t worry Lita, I will never let our daughter be in such danger, even if it kills me.�

She quickly placed a finger to her husbands lips, “Say no more Jetrin. Say no more.�


Mrs. Vychandee cradled her daughter closely; she loved her dearly, more than her own life. She sat combing Piyada’s beautiful jet black hair in silence as she stared at her daughter. Whenever, she looks into those familiar curious, fiery eyes she feels a slight pain in her heart reminding her of her best friend whom she couldn’t help in the past. But now, now she vowed for justice, “Lada� she silently whispered looking into her daughters beautiful eyes.

 

[annea]

cant wait to see what happens next
please update soon!

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Four: Shadows of the Past

Lalita quietly stepped into her room, rummaging her closet for a little box that held the justice she was speaking of earlier. Lita pulled out its contents, opening the crisp pages of the yellowed papers. Before Lada disappeared she received a letter from her, narrating her relationship with Parapon, its aftermath and her unborn son. Lada was terrified, she knew her life was in danger but held no power to impede it.

Fresh tears stained the letter as she relived her friends’ tragedy.

Lita quickly composed herself and wrote a letter to someone who would be able to correct the wrong imposed 16 years ago sealing the items up in an envelope, Lita placed her plan into action the next morning.

*************

She stood in her husbands’ office, awaiting his return impatiently folding and unfolding her hands.

“Honey, what are you doing here?� her husband curiously asked.

“Jetrin, I know something of Lada’s disappearance� she said hastily.

His once complacent visage contorted briefly. “What is it?� he managed to stammer.

“She has a son and she never ran away… she was a murder target. I need to see Tanat.�

Silence erupted the room after her last comment and not a moment later both quickly walked towards the west wing. However, so entrenched in the moment, the couple never saw a stout man leaving the scene after eavesdropping on their conversation. He sneakily followed the two after sending a note to a man that would be very interested in the news he has just retrieved.

*********
After reading the note, the tall and slender man crumpled it fiercely, his eyes piercing ahead, jaws clenched tight, “I’ve been searching for you all these years and look how easily I find you� the man coldly recited.

“Pai, gather up some men, we’re going hunting.�

****************

The Vychandee’s returned home disappointed that Tanat wasn’t in his office, he wouldn’t be home till early next morning. The two left heavy hearted unable to finish what they sought to do. They arrived home in the afternoon greeting their only daughter who looked like she has just came from sleeping in a haystack.

“Da look at you, you’re a mess. Where have you been young lady?�

She laid her eyes innocently upon her parents, “No where in particular� she stated coolly.

Her mother looked at her endearingly, “Mai, take Miss. Piyada to freshen up for dinner.

Yes, Ma’am.�

“Mr. Vychandee,� Les panted. “A group of masked men have breached our interior.�

Jetrin struck a look at his terrified wife, “It’s him� she whispered quietly.

Lalita clutched her heart as she raced to her daughter, biting her lip to hold back tears.

“Honey, I want you to take this envelope to daddy’s friend Tanat. Do you remember him?�

She watched as her daughter nodded her head quickly.

“Okay, I want you to leave now, leave through the meadow like you always do when you want to hide from mommy.�

Her daughter looked shocked “You know?� she meekly asked.

She kissed her daughter’s forehead, “Mama knows. Now hurry, do as I say, I love you baby.� She quickly left her mothers side skipping out the door.

“Please be alright� her mother whispered longingly.

Jetrin held onto her hand tightly, “everything is going to be fine. She’s going to be fine.�

As if on cue the masked men surrounded the couple, weapons in hand.

“Where is the letter? Where is Lada and her son?�

“I don’t know� Lita seethed.

The tall, slender man’s jaws clenched as he raised his hands to slap her, hard. Lalita bravely spat in his face which angered him even more. He and his men tied her and her husband up, “where is your daughter? I know she’s here, Come out now or else your parents will die… slowly.�

From the corner of his eye a little girl appeared, he snickered wildly, dragging her towards her parents. Lalita’s terrified eyes darted to her husband before turning completely pale.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Five: New Destination

Jessdaporn gathered his savings and got on the last train boarding to Darajan leaving the only life he knew behind him, following his mothers dying wish six years ago. He wandered the streets paper in hand searching for an address his mother left behind. Jess pulled out his fathers ring, staring into its blood red stone, and in an instant memories flooded them.

He stayed by his mothers’ side never leaving her, her frail fingers entwined within his, “Mom, you’re going to be fine� he assured himself.

“Don’t cry honey, mommy’s always going to be with you. Take your fathers ring, it is the only possession you have of him. Jess, promise me when I leave, I want you to return to Darajan, your loyalty lies there.�

“You’re loyalty lies there? What did mom mean?� he asked himself out loud.

***********

After leaving Mr. Tanat’s house, Piyada found herself enjoying the night out, her mother wouldn’t mind if she lingered she thought lightly. She hiked up the meadow to where a bridge took her near a river. She excitedly ran in to dip her feet into the calm of the river whistling the sweetest tune on a fallen leaf. She never figured out how such talents possessed her, but her mother always said she was blessed, she lightly chuckled at the thought wading her feet around the water without a care in the world.

************

Jessdaporn wandered the city exploring its majestic land, so foreign to his eyes but never his heart because his mom spoke of it often.

Upon reaching an open meadow he heard the sweetest song as if calling him into its possession. He followed it soon spotting a cute girl blowing on a leaf and kicking up water. His heart winced when his eyes graced hers. She looked up at him curiously, eyebrows lightly furrowed but still carrying a smile. He walked towards her, his eyes delving hers as if to find something he lost. Jess wanted to return her smile but after all these years he nearly forgot how. For some reason her eyes looked familiar “have we met before� he managed to stutter.

She looked at him briefly and shook her head from side to side, her smile never escaping her lips. “My name is Piyada,� she replied so matter of factly.

He abruptly broke off his stare “Jess.�

She turned away looking into the opaque river, “Do you know how to swim Jess?� she asked him casually.

He looked at her oddly nodding his head. “Do you think you can teach me?�

He laughed at her comment while she pouted, “Are you serious?�

She nodded her head quickly. “Now?�

“Why not!�

Jess looked at her briefly and jumped into the river, “Come down� he mouthed.

She looked at him hesitatingly. “Trust me� he replied.

Seeing his warm almond eyes she jumped and found herself floating on water, his hands supporting her. He looked at her and for the first time since his mother’s death, he felt alive seeing her grin at such an insignificant act. However time didn’t stand still for the two when the sky began getting dark and the little girl had to return home even though she didn’t complete her lesson.

Rubbing her hands together to keep warm, Da thanked her teacher bowing down comically.

“You smiled� she said abruptly slightly stirring his composure. “You should smile more often� she said jumping in place.

“Why are you jumping?� he asked.

“No reason� she said halting her motion. Looking at her watch she worriedly replied “It’s getting late, and I need to head home.�

Before he knew it she had run off. He cupped his hands over his mouth to project his voice, “Where do you live?� he screamed.

He faintly heard her reply, “4070 Highland Terrace.� He waved goodbye staring at Piyada until she disappeared into the night. “Hmm. 4070 Highland Terrace. That sounds very familiar," Jess thought.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Six: Tragedy Strikes

The tall man took out his gun and pointed it at the girls head, “Tell me what I want to know or your daughter dies� the man bellowed as he pulled her hair.

Lalita looked at her husband unsure of what to do, Sara wasn’t their daughter but a child they pitied and took in but she was still family. As if sensing their reluctance, Sara replied, “Ma, Pa. Thank you for taking care of me. Please do what is needed. I owe you my life and gratitude� she said valiantly. Lita cried, nodding reluctantly. Jetrin called the man’s attention when he pulled out his gun intending to shoot, however his men shot him first.

“Jetrin! No� Lita cried shaking her husband. Like a lioness, she glared at the heartless man before her, “I’ll die before I tell you a thing� she spat taking her husbands gun in an attempt to shoot him.

The man pushed Sara forward shooting her and Lita, leaving them for death. “Damn it!� He took off his mask revealing his true state to his shocked victims, “Burn this fucken place down� he screamed walking out defeat, yet again.

*********

Piyada skipped home after her brief encounter with Jess, hoping to see him again. She couldn’t wait to tell her parents that she made a new friend. However, snapping away from her thoughts and returning to reality, she noticed smoke coming from her home. Her heart dropped as she commanded her limbs to carry her quickly.

“Dad, Mom!� she cried. She didn’t care that she was soaking wet, she didn’t care for the falling embers burning her bare skin, Piyada blindly raced into her burning house where she found both her parents and the rest of her household shot to death. She hovered over her mother, crying endlessly.

“Mom, wake up please. Please� she begged “Please wake up!� her mother slowly opened her eyes.

“Da, don’t cry for mommy. I can’t stay with you, you have to be careful� she croaked.

“No! Stay mom. I’ll be good, I’ll be a real lady, I promise.�

“No baby. You were never meant to be a lady,� her mom smiled.

“No, I’m sorry I should have came home earlier. I should have been here� she screamed wiping her tears with the back of her arms.

“Shh, honey I’m glad you didn’t. I knew you wouldn’t� she said nearly closing her eyes, her voice weakening.

“No! Mom! I love you don’t leave me all alone. Please don't!�

“Go! Be safe, they think… you’re… dead� her mom said gasping for air.

“Who did this to you, to us. Tell me!?�

Her mom only opened her palm to reveal a shiny cufflink, “I love yy…� Her mom whispered barely audible against her cries. Her mother soon let go but Da held on, sobbing over her parents equally soaked in tears and water.

**********

Early morning Jess awoke from slumber and checked out of the hotel. He slowly pulled out the crumpled note paper and without looking asked for directions. “Oh! This is the Vychandee house. 4070 Highland Terrace. You just make a le—"

“Wait! What’s the address again?"

Jess slightly smiled at the coincidence, who knew the family he was looking for was right under his nose. He could’ve kicked himself for being so careless, but no matter he was glad, as he thought of the little girl being there.

Arriving a block away from his destination he noticed a crowd gathering ahead and smoke painting the sky a dark shade of grey. He immediately rushed to the scene, “Excuse me, what happened?� he asked pulling a man aside.

“Mr. Vychandee and his entire family died in the fire last night. What ill- fortune, they were good people� he recited eyes glazing. “Especially Miss. Piyada, she would always come by and cut me fresh flowers� he sadly recounted.

In an instant Jessdaporn’s hands dropped to his side effortlessly as his heart clenched in pain at the thought of her death. He stood in front of 4070 Highland Terrace for hours, blankly looking at her house burning to ashes as recent memories flashed his mind.

“Where do you live?� // “4070 Highland Terrace.� // “You should smile more often.�
He turned to walk away his expressions returned, cold and unsmiling.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Seven: Fallen Angel

She ran for what seemed like an eternity never stopping. Her mind commanded her to stop but her heart persuaded her to move. Piyada’s slender legs throbbed from pain, her vision blurred from tears and her heart seemed to cease its beating. Eventually her body won the battle allowing her to buckle under, flinging her into the night air. Falling and falling she welcomed it, wishing to disappear into the Earth, hoping, hoping… to disappear all together. But no, reality stood in her way allowing her body to slump over the ground pain shooting down her body but she didn’t care. She continued sobbing and crying until she couldn’t produce anymore tears, she laid there throat hoarse, eyes swollen and heavy.

A moment later Piyada Vychandee gave up, closing her mind and body tight, forgetting the reality she didn’t want to believe and closing her eyes to sleep, smiling as she felt her mother stroke her hair like she always did.

Strange voices called her back from slumber, “I found her in the garden dad,� a male voice replied.

She heard footsteps nearing her and conversation all around. Piyada opened her heavy lids adjusting her eyes to see the two figures before her “uncle Tanat� she whispered audibly.

The man eyed the girls disheveled appearance and stringy wet hair, never inciting recognition until he saw her eyes, oh how those eyes call to him he thought. “Piyada, darling. Is that you?�

He watched carefully as the girl nodded her head, fresh tears forming as her lips quivered from narration.

**********

Jess never felt as lost and alone as he did now wandering aimlessly on the streets of Darajan. His stomach growled like a lion as he realized he hasn’t had dinner yet.

He walked towards a food stand, ordering some rice and chicken when two figures caught his attention.

A middle aged man stood over a kid that looked about 12 or 13 beating him intensely. He clenched his hands at the sight, a scene all too familiar, as his memories haunted him once again.

“You’re nothing but a piece of trash, don’t ever talk that way towards me again� his orphanage director screamed while beating 10 year old Jess with anything he could get his hands on. This was routine and he lived there for two years suffering every abuse imaginable.

Instinctively, Jessdaporn ran straight ahead like he did years ago, away from the orphanage only this time he ran into the man abusing the defenseless kid.

The man didn’t know what hit him, he was assaulted with heavy, swift punches. Jess picked him by his collar, eyes bewildered and distant, “Don’t ever lay a hand on him again. Go!� He quickly scurried away not even glancing back at the wild beast that pounced him.

“You okay kid?’ Jess asked the boy who was nodding his head. He returned to his dinner, this time with a trailing companion.

“Thank You. My name is Tao� the boy peeped.

“Jessadaporn.�

From that point onwards the boy followed Jess like a puppy following its owner, gracing Jess with a new friend.

*************
Many months has passed and those months soon turned into a year but time barely soothed nor healed the wound inflicted upon Piyada. Now 14 and living practically with strangers, Da constantly thinks of her parents. Sitting alone under a fruit tree, after winning a fight, Da continues to cry. Looking at the clear blue skies she thought she was a fallen angel as she longed to be with her parents, “Mama, I won’t forget. I’ll never forget� she whispered.

Her train of thoughts were interrupted when a cold voice rang “Da! Mistress calls you, she needs your services,� she smirked, glaring down at her. Da quietly followed clenching her hands at her sides preparing herself yet again for the worst, biting her lips down to control her anger before Mrs. Tanat and her daughter.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Eight: A Second Chance

*Slap* “How dare you hurt my daughter, you’re nothing more than a servant in this house,� the treacherous woman screamed.

“Mama, it hurts, I didn’t do anything to her and she jumped on me like a crazy person� Wanessa whined.

Piyada shot her a glare, penetrating her lying face.

Mrs. Tanat looked into those wild eyes filled with fire, oh how she hated them so, after abusing her for a year those eyes never dimmed nor bowed to her once. Feeling her anger rise she grabbed Da with whip in hand, lashing her wildly but those eyes still sparked magnificently even through tears.

“Mom, Stop! Stop it!� her son yelled.

Visuth pulled Da away from his mother, shielding her.

She turned to look at her son in indignation, fleeing her eyes to Piyada, she recited coldly, “Leave.�

Blinking back her tears, Da ran from her hell and into her room locking it and herself shut once again ignoring his pleadings to come out.

************

She had enough, more than enough. This wasn’t where she wanted to be nor where she deserved to be. Walking with knapsack in hand Da walked away from the Tanats home quietly taking what was hers and leaving the premises. Looking straight ahead she didn’t know where to go all she knew was that pass those confining gates is a world filled with adventure, mystery and love.

“Lead me to safety mom,� she whispered quietly while walking aimlessly unsure of her future.

************

Tao held on to the purse tightly and ran as fast as his legs could carry him but the guards were close behind, “Shit,� he thought to himself, “I shouldn’t have lifted that lady.�

He continued running-- it was something he was good at, glancing to his left he accidentally bumped into a girl knocking her and himself to the ground.

He turned to look at her and guilt surged through him as he saw her injuries. He couldn’t have done that to her he thought fleetingly.

“I’m sorry are you okay� he quickly asked.

She nodded slowly never taking her lovely eyes off him. Turning his gaze towards the soldiers, he regained his composure and ran once again smiling at her before he left. Finding a shadowy corner he crouched to rest all the while catching his breath. A strong hand turned him around, “Shit, Jess you scared me.�

“Who are you running from� he asked lightly.

“The guards, I think I might have stole from someone important,� he said pointing with his eyes and head.

Jess looked a few feet away, laying his eyes on a nicely dressed woman and some men surrounding her but someone else caught his eyes and heart momentarily. “Piyada?� he questioned looking at the girl conversing with the woman who led her away.

“No, it couldn’t be� he assured himself, “she’s dead.�

“Jess... Jess!� Tao shook him causing him to awake from his trance.

“I’m fine. Lets go. The guys are waiting,� he said doggedly.

************

Rattana looked at the young girl in front of her and tears welled her eyes, she hesitantly reached to touch the girls’ hair, stroking it gently. She looked into her eyes, so bright and vibrant, “Aom� she mouthed quietly.

Piyada curiously eyed the kind woman who greeted her earlier. She was beautiful, elegant and stroked her hair just like her mother use to. Immediately tears flowed like water as she is reminded of her, jumping into the strangers embrace and crying on her shoulder, Da hugged the woman tight, wishing she was indeed her mother.

Rattana returned the girls embrace stroking her hair gently consoling Piyada and herself in the process.

*************

Later that night, Rattana left Darajan with Piyada, who was now fast asleep on her lap, face content in slumber. She sat awake watching the little girl who stole her heart without blinking as if she’ll disappear right before her eyes. Stroking her face, she smiled warmly, her once heavy heart was now light and free from the weight she has imposed on it. Looking out the window and watching the country of Darajan fade, she thanked it for giving her another chance at being a mother.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Nine: What Once Was Lost Now is Found

Another day has passed as Jess sat on the coach watching the television flipping channels mindlessly before Bee came in breathing hard like he just came back from a marathon.

“Jess… Tao…police…jail� he breathlessly recited.

“What?!� Jess scampered up grabbing his motorcycle keys and rushing to the station.

Jess climbed up its steps, sauntering inside to find Tao facing a young officer of about 20, questioning him.

“Tao,� Jess called.

Visuth looked up to find the face belonging to the stern cold voice, “What’s the problem officer� he asked.

He shifted his eyes and moved some paperwork, replying almost as coldly, “Petty Theft.�

“That’s it. That’s not worth keeping him locked up like this�

“True, but he doesn’t have the money to pay off the man that he robbed, and according to him, it’s quite a bundle.�

Jess looked at Tao briefly, “How much?�

“The man is asking for a grand.�

Jess’s eyes nearly fell out of his socket, slumping into the adjacent chair, Jess smacked Tao upside the head, “Idiot.� Tao just hung his head, “Will this do?� he said reluctantly placing his mother’s sapphire ring on the table.

Mr. Tanat walked towards his son when a red light caught his eyes, walking closer to its origin, he stood froze starring at a striking young man… “Parapon.�

“Visuth, let them go� he heard his father’s voice call from behind him. “Hunh! Why dad?� he asked confused.

Jess watched closely as an older man approached them staring at him and looking at his ring he placed on the table. He picked it up examining it carefully, “Is this yours?� the man asked him.

“Yes, my mother gave it to me, she said it belonged to my father� he replied coldly, angered that the man was molesting his possession.

The man just smiled, chuckling lightly as if he found a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Jess glared at him and the next four words that came out of his mouth changed his life forever.

“I know your father.�

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Ten: Reunion

10 years later….

Jess sat on the plane looking at his land below him, “Darajan� he called. The country still held its majestic power over him even after returning home from studying in America.

He closed his eyes briefly as memories, good and bad, flashed through his mind:

He was led into a large building painted in flecks of gold and silver, never seeing anything so beautiful in his life he struggled to catch up with Mr. Tanat. At the thought of meeting his father, Jess shook inside not knowing what to expect.

They arrived through double doors and there he was sitting at the head of a long table, he knew it was him, he had his eyes, his demeanor and he had his face.

“Jessdaporn, this is Sokparapon Rathmongkul, your father and the present ruler of Darajan.�

Jess, looked questioningly at Tanat, “the king?�

Tanat nodded his head in agreement.

The man returned his stare and smiled slightly, as if he was afraid he would scare him away. “Welcome home son� the man replied with a stiff smile, his stiff smile.

A lot has happened over the four years he spent at the palace with his father, whom he has never properly bonded with; additionally a lot has happened in the following six years spent abroad.

As a long lost son he was never accepted by anyone else in his immediate family besides his father and a few outsiders like Mr. Tanat. He could easily characterize those around him as those who loved him, hated him or feared him but it was more of the latter.

Stepping off his private plane, Jess walked the soil of Darajan for the first time in years before heading off to meet his “family.� How odd that word sounds he thought, even more interesting is how foreign that word feels.

***********

Walking up the steps of the royal palace, Jessdaporn was greeted by an aged man he immediately recognized to be Mr. Tanat.

“It’s been awhile, I see you’ve grown into quite a handsome man…how’s that temper and unruly attitude? Have the years abroad succeeded in ironing it out?� he asked comically.

“I believe it’s still somewhere in here, alive and kickin� he replied.

“I’m glad. I grew quite fond of it.�

“Too bad father never felt the same� Jess remarked distantly.

“I’m sure he only wants the best for you. He didn’t send you away to be rid of you, he loves you.�

“Really, I could’ve sworn it was his wife and her entourage. How is Wasin anyway?� Jess smiled at the thought of the slimy punk.

“Just as before, Prince Jessadaporn, utterly clueless, spoiled and inept,� Tanat added briefly, “things haven’t changed much after your departure but your father although stubborn as before has grown quite weary.�

“Where is my father� Jess asked looking worried.

“In his chamber.�

********

Jessdaporn quietly opened the door to his father’s chamber seeing him sitting in bed reading documents, “Father.�

The king looked up, surprised and elated to see his only son, “Jessdaporn is that you? Oh, how you’ve grown.�

Jess moved to sit near his father examining his old and weary eyes that once held strength and conviction when he last saw them.

“No one told me you were coming back?�

“I didn’t want anyone to make a fuss� he replied.

“You know me well, son� he said as he pulled him into a strong embrace. “My sources tell me that you’ve accomplished all that I have asked of you and more. I must admit I am proud of you, son.�

Jess eyed him curiously, “Don’t look so curious, I am proud of you, I know you didn’t want to go but I forced you anyway because you need to be prepared.�

“For what father?�

“To rule.�

**********

Jessdaporn briskly walked down the hall still in shock at his father’s words. Not noticing the person to the left of him, he caused her to bump into his side.

“Watch where you’re going, you imbecile� the annoying voice shrieked. Saifah, looked up and drowned in the man’s strong arms and warm eyes. Collecting herself, she pulled away nearly drooling.

“Saifah, is that you?� she heard the man ask.

Looking up curiously she examined the handsome man before her, “Jessdaporn?�

He nodded slowly, while she eyed him guiltily as memories of the past flashed through her.

“I see you haven’t changed, still irresponsible and loud as before� he snickered watching her cry out in anger before running off to tell the queen, he presumed.

*******

Jess unpacked his things and gave his friends a call, “Hello, Tao. I’ll meet you in an hour, Late.�

Whistling a familiar melody, Jess got dressed to go clubbing, one of the many habits he picked up while in the states. Jessdaporn knew he was cocky, ill-tempered and irrational but he also knew he had his mother’s courage and his father’s strength to balance his ill manners and habits but strangely what he needed most was what he lacked.

Heading down the highway, Jess thought about his life, going from rags to riches and obscurity to royalty. He wasn’t the same boy many knew him to be years ago, he has matured from experience and adapted well even with his guard up. Coming from the streets Jess had to earn and work for everything he needed but as a crowned prince, Jess was spoiled and given everything he wanted; cars, money and power, whereas his looks got him the rest. Jessdaporn lived out a charmed life but one thing he lacked was the ability to love and after the death of his mother and the events following it, the word and its meaning seemed distant, foreign and out of place like a fish out of water.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Eleven: They Can Fly

“Nat, come quick,� she cried leaning down on the wet grass and examining the dragon-tailed butterfly. “Shh. It might fly away. *Snap* Got ya!�

Nat sat near her friend of 10 years and eyed her curiously, “Why do you love them so much?�

“Because they can fly,� she whispered as if someone may hear her.

Nat shoved her friend playfully, “Tag your it.�

“Hey, no fair. I wasn’t ready cheater.�

Not too far away Rattana watched her daughter and her hope bask in the afternoon sun without a care in the world and her heart winced at the thought of losing her again. She quickly brushed her thoughts aside, “Nat, Piyada! Come inside. I have important matters to discuss with you� she called turning her back on them.

“Mom!� Da rushed to hug her mother, “what’s so important, I was about to tackle Nat� she said breathlessly.

“Your future honey� her mother replied looking at her daughter seriously. She stroked her hair softly, “Piyada, you’ve grown into quite a beautiful woman. Your father and I have decided that you are of the rightful age...�

Da looked at her mother who was struggling with her words.

“Your father and I…� looking into those innocent and unsuspecting eyes, Rattana couldn’t bring herself to hurt her daughter, “we believe it is time for you to help your father and I manage things around here,� her mother fibbed.

Piyada exhaled slowly, “That’s it?� Her mother averted her eyes, while nodding her head.

She reassured her mother with an obedient nod, “I’ll do my best� she replied smiling brightly.

********

Rattana headed to her husbands quarters bearing him news of her failure. Nira squeezed her hand lightly, “We have to do what is best for Saylachan, Na.�

“But, I love her, like our own daughter,� he nodded in agreement, “and so do I but-�

“she could die, she could leave us like Aom� she said abruptly.

“Aom� he whispered shockingly, having Piyada around, he nearly forgot about everything, even her lifeless eyes that use to haunt him. Nira looked at her with sad eyes, “I… we need her.�

********

Piyada combed her long black hair, glancing at her teary visage in the mirror, she still missed them even after 10 years, she missed them. Now 24 Da, still remembered.

Rattana held on to her gingerly caressing her to sleep. When they arrived at Saylachan, Rattana led her inside the biggest building she has ever seen in her life. The walkway glittered with roses, lilacs and tulips its aroma calming to the senses. She gripped the lady’s hand tighter as she entered the threshold scared of the present and unsure of her future.

“Rattana, what’s going on?� she heard a plump man mouth.

“Meet Piyada, she’s our new daughter. Da greet your father�

Piyada clasped her hands together and bowed delicately.

The man alternatively eyed his wife and her, bewildered and speechless. She just smiled unsurely.

Piyada smiled lightly drying the tears from her eyes as the memories flashed through her mind. She loved her second family just as much as her real parents.

“Coming� she replied as she heard a knock at her door.

“Miss Da, the supper’s ready�

“Okay, I’ll be right down� she replied.

Piyada headed down the marble stairway to join her father and mother at the table. Coming down the stairs she could tell that her parents were arguing about something but she couldn’t make it out. However, once she made it down silence captured the room. Piyada looked at her parents strangely. They ignored her stare trying desperately to mask whatever they felt needed to be hidden.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Thirteen: Pretty Woman

It was increasingly getting dark and with each step she took away from home she grew regretful and scared. She knew she was irrational.

“I should’ve planned� she thought to herself as she tried to figure out where to go.

As a princess, Piyada has never been outside the palace walls and her life inside has always been sheltered, leaving her comfort zone was more than terrifying. However, she was never one to give up. She put on a brave face and trudged forward ignoring the night wind seeping through her white gown.

********

Jess whistled contently as he walked feeling free and uninhibited reclaiming his freedom and unruly ways. After moving in with his father he was shunned for his “uncivilized� manners. He remembered how desperate his father was to change him but in the end no one could. He wasn’t a gentleman—he was blunt and honest. He wasn’t respectful—everyone had to earn it from him. He wasn’t many things royalty asked him to be, most of all he was never really happy.

********

After much thinking Piyada decided to stay with her retired nanny who lived in the countryside of Saylachan, and naively she thought all she had to do now was find her. Excited about her revelation she carelessly lost track of her surroundings until loud clucks demanded her attention. She turned to see three men ill shaven and rugged approaching her.

“Ne, looks like we ain’t gonna be so cold tonight� one man spat.

“Where are you going pretty woman, how ‘bout you stay with us?� another screeched.

Da turned to run but the men blocked her path grabbing her hands and waist. “Let me go� she screamed. “Someone help me, help me!� she added but her help never came.

She felt their rough hands roam her body and in that instant her tears flowed non-stop as she felt she had lost the battle, allowing herself to slip away, “mama help me� she prayed before losing consciousness.

A loud bang startled the men as their heads jerked towards the direction of the gun shot.

“Leave the girl, Now!� he threatened, but they didn’t seem to flinch.

Jess proceeded to lower the gun aiming it at one of their heads, “the girl or your life� he repeated coldly.

The men glared at the unconscious girl and the bold man in front of them and without another seconds thought they scurried away leaving Jess to snicker at their actions. Putting away his gun he walked towards the woman briskly, kneeling down to wake her, he understood why the men didn’t want to leave. Jess tried to shake her up but she was knocked out, probably traumatized he thought. He knew he couldn’t leave her here and he couldn’t take her with him.

He sighed deeply, “Jess. You’re such a sucker for a pretty face� he scolded himself as he picked her up gently.

After walking the trail through the woods to get to a nearby town he decided to settle because the night was getting dark and the little woman in his arms was magically getting heavier every second. He leaned her against a tree and proceeded to start a fire before they both froze to death.

Warming his hands Jess looked at the young woman beside him intently watching the flames’ shadow dance across her face, as if bringing her into animation. Strangely the more he stared at her the more he felt he knew her. He walked over bravely outlining her face and grinned at how soft her skin was to his touch. As if in a trance he leaned over her so close that he could feel her breath caressing his cheeks faintly. He continued to outline her lips with his thumbs; they were so familiar he thought. He has seen these full pout lips before he was sure of it but he could never fully recall such things into memory.

 

[Mara Phang]

Wow, your story is so incredible! :wub: Thanks for sharing such a beautiful fan fiction, Nappi23. I love Tik and Aom! I hope you will continue to update soon. Keep up the good work. I can't wait to read more.... :loool:

 

[puffypie]

Yeah i accept that yr storyline is good..it makes me want to read the next episode...i want to know if she wake up..what she will do...lol i just cannot wait for the next episode..write some more please please..

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Fourteen: Stolen Kiss

Feeling his touch she slowly stirred, her eyes opened widely.

Aware of her immediate actions Jess silenced her quickly with his lips, muffling her screams just in time.

Surprisingly Jess felt his heart palpitate as he kissed her finding himself ignoring her constant struggle underneath him until he felt a sharp pain when she bit his lips long and hard prompting him to retreat like a wounded dog.

“Shit!� he screamed.

She immediately pushed him away making a dash for it never looking back. He quickly wiped the blood off his lips and pounced on her like he would a prey.

“Ahh!! Let me go, Ass hole� she screamed kicking and swinging punches erratically.

He dodged her movements skillfully and pinned her down with his body, trying to calm her down, “Quiet! Or else I’ll have to shut you up… again� he sneered eyeing her lips.

She ceased all movement and noise as she bit down on her lower lips, her chest still heaving from the anger building inside her. He looked down at her cute expression and softened his face while loosening his grip. He stared into her round eyes and in an instant he was sucked in again, “Get off me� she said near whisper breaking his gaze.

He obeyed her, smiling at her sudden reaction. She scurried away from him a few feet, glaring straight at him, “if I knew I’d be bitten for my good deed I would’ve left you to those men earlier� he sarcastically replied breaking the hostile silence.

Looking at the man in front of her in a different light, Da nearly thanked him but faltered after realizing her recently stolen kiss.

“You’re no better than they are,� she eyed him angrily “maybe worst� she spat.

His face twitched in anger, “Oh! I see. You’re mad that I interrupted your fun� he said viciously. “If I knew you were a tease I would’ve--� *Slap*

Da silenced him immediately head held high and her palm throbbing from her action. He looked at her eyes wild, “No one, I mean no one slaps me� he growled gripping her left wrist tightly.

Piyada gazed bravely at him, “I’ll gladly be the first� she said challenging him with her eyes. The two continued to glare neither willing to look away as if doing so would end their very livelihoods.

*********

Mrs. Saivaruth shakily held the letter in her hand, its words swirling in and out of her consciousness. Fresh tears dampened the page as she read:

Dear mother and father, I thank you for your kindness no matter its origin. You took me in, fed me, clothed me and at least… pretended to love me. I am sorry that I can’t fulfill my obligations but it is too much for me to accept. Thank You and Goodbye Piyada.

After finishing the letter the king immediately sent soldiers to find the princess before news of her disappearance reached the kingdom of Chaiyan.

Nira quickly gripped his wife’s shoulders, “she’ll be fine honey. We’ll find her before they do.�

Rattana nodded her head worriedly resting her head on his chest. “Be safe, my darling. Be safe.�

*******

After receiving news of his disappearance everyone in the palace seemed to awake from a hypnotic slumber scurrying in and out of the kings chambers. The king was asked to send soldiers to find the prince but the king calmly declined “I know my son. He’ll return.�

However not everyone awaited his return especially those that wanted him gone. Beyond the outskirts of Darajan, a slender man led a group of armed soldiers to search for Jess but they didn’t have his best intentions in mind. The slender man smiled at his second chance to redeem himself for his failure twenty seven years ago, “Soon, Lada. Your son will join you� the man snickered to himself.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Fifteen: Complications

Jessdaporn’s anger soon subsided as he continued to stare at the silly girl in front of him, unable to maintain his stare and his laughter Jess broke away clutching his stomach.

Da looked at him strangely, her anger reignited by his mockery. “What’s so damn funny! I command you to stop laughing� she screamed irritated but he wouldn’t stop. She pouted in frustration clenching her fists and turning away from him.

He gathered his composure and stared at her back, “I command you? Ha! No one commands me� he replied mockingly.

He walked towards her, picking her up abruptly by the elbow, “hey, what are you doing? Let me go� she seethed.

He practically dragged her back to their camp site, “Sit� he commanded.

She looked at him blankly and unresponsive to his demand with her hands crossed over her chest. “Are you hard of hearing, I said SIT!� he repeated irritably.

Piyada glanced down at her nails and examined them with utmost attention, ignoring him completely.

He was disturbed at her ill behavior, “Fine, don’t sit for all I care� he replied poking the embers from the fire and resting his hands under his head. She looked at him pursing her lips and walked around the perimeter however never leaving his sight.

Jess opened his eyes to sneak a peek at the beauty before him. She captivated him and fascinated him completely. Somehow she brought tranquility to his heart but she also brought fire, an odd combination.

Walking past him, Da settled down near an adjacent tree near the fire, hugging her knees tight and entranced by the flames. Memories of her parent’s death, her abuse and her betrayal by those she loved brought tears to her eyes but still under the flames influence she never blinked nor acknowledged anything else around her until she grew tired from remembering.

The two figures laying in the dark slept as soundly as they could in a forest separate and alone till early morning dawn.

********

Piyada awakened at the man’s touch, sharply and defensively. “Lets go!�

She looked at him strangely, “What? Where are you taking me?� she swiftly replied. “And what makes you think that I’ll go with you?� she said prying his hands off her.

He looked at her briefly, rolling his eyes. “Fine. Stay here by yourself, I’m leaving� he replied sternly while getting ready to leave.

Her pride would’ve got the best of her but rationality pulled her through when she realized she didn’t know where she was or where she’s going. “Wa..wait� she called turning to see a smirk form on his chiseled face.

Gathering up enough courage Da asked the man for his name but what she received was more of a grunt than an answer. “What was that?�

“It’s Jess� he reiterated irritably.

“My name is Da� she brightly replied before being tackled down.

She felt his hands on her mouth and fear struck her heart. He signaled for her to remain quiet as he led her behind a large tree.

“Shh. We’re not alone.�

A few feet away armed soldiers in blue blocked the entrance to the town ahead. Da grew frigid as she stared at her impending doom.

Meanwhile Jess grew puzzled as to what they were doing, he wondered if his father sent soldiers to find him but whatever the reason he couldn’t risk being caught. He grabbed the girls hand and led her in a different direction away from the trail, “follow me.�

Piyada quietly obeyed so as to not be caught and sent back home. She looked up at the man leading the way and nearly shuddered at his coldness. He was dark, aloof and very mysterious but she was strangely drawn to him despite his harsh exterior.

“Where are we going?� she asked breaking the long silence.

“To the next village but it looks like we won’t be taking a short cut.�

Chapter Sixteen: Drowning

Piyada trudged forward following the incorrigible man that saved her life, zig zagging through the forest for what seemed like an eternity.

“Are you sure you know where you’re going?� she shouted exhausted.

Jess stopped in his tracks and turned to look at her as if just realizing her presence. He nodded his head and continued on across the dense forestry until he stopped abruptly, causing Da to slam hard against him.

“Wha—Why’d you stop?� she queried.

However, he returned no answer instead he roughly grabbed her, pulling them forward.

“Let me go! What’s going on? Answer me?!!�

However, he still held a fierce grip on her wrists and no matter how many times she used her free hand to swat him he was relentless in his pursuit.

*Bang, Bang*

Shots buzzed past her ear causing her to involuntarily scream out and in that instant she found her answer.

“Why didn’t you just tell me! Maybe I would’ve been more cooperative, you Jerk!!�

Turning to look behind her, she spotted heavily armed soldiers dressed in green.

“Were they after her?� she thought, “but Saylachan’s soldiers didn’t wear green attire.. it couldn’t be� she reasoned.

Whatever the matter she clasped his hand tightly afraid to lose him, afraid of falling behind.

They ran across the forest as fast as they could but they were still close behind. “Shit� she heard him shout as they reached a dead end. He looked down at the long jump into the water and alternatively behind him. “We have to jump!�

“No, I can’t� Da replied shaking her head.

He looked towards the incoming soldiers, “You have to� he replied.

“I can’t sw--� Jess kissed her mouth shut, not letting her finish her sentence; quickly pulling her into his arms and tossing both of their bodies over the cliff.

[A few minutes later] Glancing down at the fall the soldiers signaled the general that their target has escaped.

“Damn it!� The tall man screamed while tossing his hat to the floor, “Find out where this body of water leads to, send our best men there and find him… dead or alive, I want him!�

He clenched his jaws tight, determined to win the battle he started twenty seven years ago never stopping until he claims back what was his.

********

“Jeb, I want you to find her before Putt’s soldiers do�

“Yes uncle, I’ll make sure of it. I will protect her with my life�

“I know you will� Da’s father said. “You will dress in civilian attire, so as to not attract attention. It is vital that you disable Chaiyan’s soldiers before they find the princess�

“I understand� he replied before gathering up his men to find Piyada.

Upon reaching the outskirts of Saylachan he knew his task was for his country but he knew it was also for his heart, “please be okay Da� he whispered into the cold night air.

********

Piyada felt the assault on her body when she hit the water but she also felt panic at the thought of drowning. The water seemed to engulf her dragging her down with its pull. Da felt her whole world flash before her eyes, she saw her dead parents, her childhood, her foster parents and an unknown man amidst the water.

She continued to struggle against the force of the water, but it was no use she was like a rag doll being pulled every which way. Da loosened and surrendered herself to the water, no longer fighting it but welcoming it as if in an embrace. She continued to drift away;

“No! Mom! I love you don’t leave me all alone /// Have we met before? Come down. Trust me/// She is Aom’s replacement. It is your responsibility as Princess Piyada Saivaruth./// Jump!/// Dala won’t forget Anothai/// why do you love them so much? Because they can fly.�

The images continued to cloud her memory, they were bits and pieces, some recognizable others not and just as quickly as she received them they disappeared allowing her to see nothing but darkness.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Seventeen: Take My Breath Away

Jess awoke hours later from the immense pain shooting up his left arm, finding himself on wet land. Immediately he called out for the woman he was with, his heart stood still in anticipation. He grew worried about her survival but staring straight ahead he spotted her disheveled and unconscious.

Rushing over, Jess tried to shake her awake but it was to no use, she was not responding. Upon searching for her pulse, he found it very weak. Being specially trained, he preformed CPR on her trying desperately to breathe life back into her.

“Come on, Da. Don’t die on me. Wake up, Wake up!� however he received no response.

*********

Piyada walked through a long corridor feeling confused and scared until she set eyes on her family.

“Mama, Papa. I found you. Oh how I’ve missed you,� she cried running to them.

Her mother returned her embrace, “and so have we but you must be strong darling. You can’t stay, you must go�

“No. I’m so tired mama. Let me rest for a little while…please,� she pleaded with her parents.

“You can’t honey, there is more for you to do, there is more for you to know� replied her parents drifting farther and farther away.

“No, No! no..no...�

**********

“Wake up Da!� she heard a deep voice scream bringing her back into consciousness.

Opening her eyes she found his moist lips pressed over hers and his hands on her chest. She immediately turned to her side, coughing up water. She turned to look at him face as red as scarlet and hands clasped over her mouth. “You…�

He looked over at her with relief but also amusement. “Don’t flatter yourself, I was trying to save your life� he said arrogantly.

Da couldn’t contain her anger any longer, “Who asked you too� she retorted back. “Besides you wouldn’t have to save my life if you hadn’t pushed me into the water. In fact you nearly killed me. If you’ve given me a chance to speak you would’ve known that I can’t swim!� she stated boldly.

Never backing down from her stare he returned her spite just as equally, “If you hadn’t been frolicking around at night in a flimsy gown near the slums from the very beginning none of this would ever have happened� he replied heatedly.

“Ughh! Your such a jerk! Is there any gentleman bone in that body of yours?�

He looked at her curiously, “Trust me every bone in my body is man. Gentle or not.�

She wanted to puke, what kind of line was that? “Whatever!� she swiftly picked herself up only to fall back down.

She had sprained her ankle, “Oww!�

Jess chuckled. Looking over her he offered his hand but she swatted it away quickly.

He grabbed her up holding her closely to his side, “Let me go, you barbarian! I don’t want your help� she bellowed.

“What is wrong with you woman. You ask me to be more of a gentleman but you decline and when I help you, you call me uncivilized! Khun Bah.�

She only glared at him, too tired to respond.

Dusk was approaching them and they needed to find shelter before the night shrouded them in complete darkness. They approached an old shack made of dry bamboo and a roof made of leaves.

“This will do!� he stated upon entering the threshold.

Jess released his hold on her abruptly, causing her to fall uncomfortably on her ass.

“Idiot� she mumbled under her breath while rubbing her side.

“What was that?� he sternly asked.

She plastered a smile, “Nothing,� she said almost sweetly.

Jess surveyed the small area briefly before he slumped himself down next to her, “Looks like we’re sleeping here tonight� he coolly stated.

She slighted her shoulder away from his forming a sour face. She tended to her sprained ankle, rubbing it gently and ignoring the man beside her.

Jess eyed her intently as if contemplating a war strategy, “Let me see!�

Piyada’s heart nearly jumped at the sound of his voice penetrating the comforting silence. She eyed him apprehensively afraid of what the barbarian may do, after all he definitely wasn’t a gentle man.

 

[nappi23]

Chapter Eighteen: Warm Hearts on a Cold Night

He reached for her ankle but she moved it away quickly as if he possessed the plague. He looked up at her and saw the fear distilled in her beautiful eyes and in that instant he grew angry, was he such a monster in her eyes?

He quickly and firmly grabbed a hold of her leg inciting pain to escape her lips in a soft moan. He massaged her ankle gently but firmly. Feeling her relax, he rotated her feet but what he also felt were her eyes burning right through him. He looked up to match her gaze, no longer were they fearful but questioning and innocent. He wanted to stare into them forever, “Better?� She nodded her head slowly in response, “thank you� she whispered softly turning to look away.

Looking at the woman in front of him he felt something stir deep in his soul, warming his heart. He felt an attraction towards her but he also felt something else— impending danger. There was something about her that he couldn’t see but oddly he could feel it, what he didn’t quite know.

Piyada couldn’t stand his heated gaze that colored her cheeks so easily. She didn’t want to feel anything for the cold, monstrous man before her but her heart wanted otherwise. She broke away from his eyes dark, yet magnetic and laid out her wet clothes and items to dry in order to busy herself. She didn’t want to ignore him but she didn’t know what else to do either. Her emotions were running wild and rampant, she needed to find some sort of protection against his undeniable charm.

Jess tore his eyes away from her and settled in his own corner clutching his belongings, making sure his favorite picture was still intact. He missed her, even more so when he was alone and alone he was.

"Son, you will marry the princess of our neighboring kingdom by the end of the month! I will see to it that you do. There is no choice in the matter Princess Aom Saivaruth will be your bride.�

His jaws tightened in anger, he didn’t need another woman in his life yet alone a wife. He was accustomed to being independent—no one to watch for, no one to care for and most importantly no one to love. Being unattached was required, a survival tool essential to his life. After the death of his mother and the events following it, he needed to be detached in order to save himself from emotional hurt for he knew that it surpassed any physical pain he knew he could endure. That he knew of for sure.

Piyada glanced over at Jess who sat completely still eyes glazed over as if in a trance. However curious as she was, she was also tired. Positioning her backpack for a pillow she slept quickly and soundly.

Breaking his train of thoughts Jess spotted the stubborn woman sleeping away without a care in the world. She reminded him of sleeping beauty, eyes of honey brown, lips red as crimson and sweet as wine. He quietly walked over, scooping her up to place her on the straw bed in the center of the room. He took off his jacket and placed it over her night gown. He slept beside her, eyes wide awake; examining her like a doctor would his patient. He formed a partial smile as her vibrant image interrupted his once tranquil thoughts, his once tranquil soul.

**********

Jeb knew Da wouldn’t be able to leave Saylachan because he had the border patrol close all outgoing traffic after her disappearance, but what he didn’t know was what scared him the most. He combed the area with his men till dark fall and would continue before the early morn. He had to make haste because Chaiyan’s soldiers has found news of the princess’s disappearance and would most likely strike while the ball is in their court—after all she was Saylachan’s ticket to freedom but most importantly she was Chaiyan’s key to sweet victory. A victory that they have been waiting years to grasp and all they needed was the blood of Saylachan’s princess.