The Cassandra Chronicles: The Pack

By Blakely Cane

Cassandra Holloway is a college student at the University of Michigan trying to make her own way in the world. Having grown up in a children's home she is determined to blaze her own trail to be self sufficient in a hostile environment. Her firm plans to be the one that discovers new species around the world are effectively destroyed when she meets the quarterback of the football team Ryan Snyder. However, she only has eyes for one of her professors Alec Archer whose mysterious ability to sense her thoughts grabs her attention and doesn't let go.
He leads her down a dark path where she finds she is much closer to discovering those creatures that have captured her imagination since she was a child.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Oct 17, 2012
• ISBN: 9781477278468

Blakely Cane

Since I was a young girl I have loved to read and write as a means of entertainment. I achieve satisfaction from writing a good story and sharing it with others. This book is the first I have submitted for publication but not the first I have written. After beginning my college career I realized that my heart belongs to writing. I realized when I set my mind to it, the fiction just flows. I believe I have a gift and am anxious to share it.

Book preview

Chapter 1

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From the time I was a little girl I wanted to be the finder of lost things. Well, more specifically lost species and objects. For years I have distracted myself from the outside world by reading, books about Bigfoot, werewolves and mythological creatures have kept my mind open to all possibilities. Once I graduated from high school in a small town outside of Chicago, the fire was roaring to learn more, so I’m studying cryptozoology at the University of Michigan.

My freshman year went by without distraction, other than one small one… Alec Archer professor of crypto. I didn’t have him for any of my classes my freshman year but here I am two months into my sophomore year and he is currently the center of my universe. Unfortunately he doesn’t know I exist. So I pass my two hours three times a week with him staring dreamily into his deep blue eyes, usually instead of paying attention. Today is no different.

Cass snap out of it girl, class is almost over. My best friend and roommate since I came here whispered under her breath when she looked at the clock seeing we have ten minutes to complete this test that I have done nothing on. Why? Because I’m too busy daydreaming about my professor, oh god I’m that girl. Heaven help me. I winced and quickly dragged my eyes from the tall, dark and ruggedly handsome man at the front of the room and looked at my test. Lucky for me, I’ve been reading up for so long that passing tests in this class tends to be a breeze. In a near panic I quickly ran through the first two pages of the multiple choice test and hit the last one exactly four minutes from the end of class. If I can pull this off it will be a miracle.

Cass hurry… Piper whispered.

Shh! Professor Archer hissed, god every time he opens his mouth he gives me chills the size of buses. What am I doing again? Oh yeah, a test on megalodon sharks. Come on Cassandra just two more and we’re done and you can run and hide under a rock; then in a million years someone will study your distracted ass. Tapping my pencil nervously on the desk there was no mistaking the growl from the front of the room or the fact that I was under the scrutinizing eye of Alec Archer, god among men. Ugh, I hate pressure, always makes me have to pee; talk about distracting. Even worse, I caused it; yes I Cassandra Holloway orphan twenty year old did this to herself. What a moron.

That’s it pencils down. Professor Archer said clearly irritated about something, probably not me, he would have to know I exist for it to be an issue with me. Groans filled the room as fifty-seven other students with issues tried to finish. I said now! He demanded in that deep sultry voice of his. I squealed putting in the last answer on my test. Pass them up. He said the minute I put my pencil down, I looked up to see he was looking right at me. I took the stack of tests from behind me and passed them to the front then dropped my head to my desk. Everyone else got up and started leaving as he dismissed us.

Cassie let’s go we have to get ready for that party at the Kappa house tonight. Piper coaxed pushing at my shoulder, I whimpered and looked up at her.

I can’t go, I just can’t. I said getting up and gathering my books and purse. She groaned and rolled her eyes.

Cassie we’ve talked about this, you are never going to get a boyfriend if you do not get out of the fucking dorm and go to some parties. You’ve been here a year and a half and still haven’t been on a date. There is more to life than school and A’s. She said frustrated with my antisocial behavior.

Piper it is not, I’m here to learn not screw my weekends away pining for some dumb jock that wants absolutely nothing but to get in my pants. I’m no dummy; I know what happens at frat parties. I don’t want to go. I snapped.

Too bad you are going, you promised me. She whined and I groaned.

Piper you know me well enough by now to know I never keep promises when it comes to parties. I hate crowds, I pretty much hate all girls and the guys; well let’s just say I want someone with a brain. I said as we walked down the aisle to the front of the class shaking my head in frustration, she’ll never understand me.

Miss Holloway, my office in ten minutes. Professor Archer grumbled when I hit the bottom step. I stopped short and looked at him turning bright red, I could feel the blush rushing to my cheeks, he just arched his brow and set his jaw.

Yes Professor Archer. I said and promptly pushed the stunned Piper out the door and into the hall full of students. Oh shit I’m so screwed. I whimpered nervously and headed right for the bathroom.

Please, you make straight A’s Cassie; you can’t possibly be in trouble. She grumbled following me in the bathroom and promptly lighting a cigarette. I snatched it and took a puff before I went in a stall.

This is horrible I have one shot at this and I spend more time daydreaming than working, I’m so fucked Piper. Ah yes, the conversations we’ve had with one of us sitting on the toilet.

Stop it Cass, you are not. She said as I washed my hands and then I snatched her cig again and took another puff anxiously leaning against the counter looking in the mirror. At five four I sort of blend in because everyone is taller than me, I’m easily missed to say the least. I fussed with my long blonde hair fixing the giant curls that fall nearly to my butt, then I nervously pulled out my makeup bag and freshened my face a bit and shoved a piece of gum in my mouth then looked at Piper not bothering to hide how worried I was.

You are gorgeous Cassie don’t worry, as if it matters anyway. I saw him yesterday with Bethany Briggs having lunch. She said and I frowned, there goes another chance. Bethany is the prettiest girl on campus, Miss U of M last year, gross; beauty queens make me gag. Why in the hell would mister hot to trot want anything to do with me when he has her falling at his feet? I sighed shaking my head then grabbed my things in a huff.

I’ll see you at the dorm Piper.

Okay, good luck. She said worriedly as I pushed the bathroom door open and headed down the stairs to his office. God I’ve never been called to a teacher’s office before, I don’t remember the last time I was this damn nervous. When I got to the door I stopped and took a deep breath then I knocked. Not sure what procedure is about such things so I did the polite thing.

Come. He yelled and I winced and opened the door and went inside his office stacked with tons of books and models and bones, a dream for a girl like me. I was almost more distracted by the things in his office than by him. Have a seat Miss Holloway. He said sternly and I glanced over at him and nodded slightly then sat in the chair in front of his desk as he sat in his chair and folded his massive strong hands on top of his desk. His black button down shirt was rolled up at the sleeves revealing his dark tanned skin, he had lost his tie since class and unbuttoned the top two buttons of his shirt. I watched the muscles in his forearm twitch, seems he’s fidgety too, wonder why.

I was so nervous I could hear my heart pounding, he must have heard it since it was so damn quiet in his office. I chewed on my bottom lip and looked at him with big brown eyes through my thick lashes. I seemed to have forgotten how to form words at all and just stared looking like a fool I’m sure. Why isn’t he saying anything? Did he just bring me in here so he could make me so nervous I wanted to puke or what? I watched in horror as the corners of his mouth turned up as though he heard my thoughts. That’s not possible. Let’s hope not at least because if he can hear my thoughts he knows all about the yummy fantasies I’ve been having about him since the day I first laid eyes on him. Ahh, the smile grew just a little and blood flooded my cheeks.

Miss Holloway, you are one of the best students I’ve had in my class to date. You are smart, driven, determined and inventive. However, this test… you suck. He said holding my test up and I gasped, he just arched his brow and plopped it down in front of me.

I know, I’m sorry there’s no excuse, I know the material I should have done better. I said regretfully looking down.

You should have aced it Cassie. Unfortunately this will do some damage to your grade point average, so I thought I would be a nice guy for a change and offer you the opportunity to make it up, extra credit if you will. He said and I arched my brow interested in this offer, maybe; I have heard horrible stories about what extra credit means to hot professors. In answer, he grunted and I cocked my head to the side; I would bet he can hear my thoughts but that’s impossible I need to get that out of my head, clearly I read too many damn books.

What kind of extra credit? I asked and he sighed and sat back putting his arms behind his head, holy shit he’s making me a crazy bitch, everything he does is sexy, everything. I bet even the gross things he does are sexy. He bit his bottom lip, didn’t smile but his eyes brightened. That’s it, no more thinking around Professor Archer; just in case.

Well I think you show great promise, you came into my class knowing a lot of the material already. Take a look at this. He said and tossed a file folder to me, I hesitantly opened it up to find newspaper clippings. The first one was a sighting of an unidentified creature in the forest flanking Lake Eerie; well that’s highly appropriate. I flipped to the next and yet another sighting of a large creature, hairy with big teeth and eyes but not always on two legs. Not a biped.

Hmm, well it’s not a bigfoot based on descriptions.

What does it sound like to you? He asked and I winced and looked up at him.

I can’t tell you that, if I tell you I have to kill you lest you send the men with white coats after me. I said and he laughed.

Come on Cass what do you think? He coaxed with a gorgeous smile and gleaming white teeth. I shook my head and looked at the material again.

"Well, this description stands out to me, people say they smell dog. That reminds me of a story I heard back home, in the valley you can drive down the street through the country and I have a friend who claims that he was there one night late and there was a creature in the middle of the street, huge, doglike but standing on two legs. He said it’s a werewolf. This sounds the same to me."

What happened?

He ran over it. I said and he gasped and his jaw clenched, I cocked my head to the side then smiled. It didn’t die, he said that when he hit it… it ghosted through the car. When he looked in his rear view it was standing in the road, hadn’t moved a bit. But I can tell you that his car reeked for weeks after that, the nastiest dog smell permeated everything in it. I said and he nodded coolly. Um, why ask me? I asked hesitantly.

I want to go look for it. He said.

Why? I mean if it is undiscovered for this long it doesn’t want to be found. Besides if you found one they would test it and poke it with needles and cage it and make a mockery out of a mythical creature.

And that right there is why I want you to go with me. He said and I burst into giggles.

Yeah right, I’m sort of an indoor girl Professor.

That’s not true, you run every morning and sometimes at night. You are out of the dorm more than in it, you do your reading in the quad outside… He said knowingly and I frowned. Shit he did notice me, holy fuck what do I do now? Come with me Cassie. Did he just answer my thought?

I think that’s a horrible idea. I said shaking my head.

Why?

I can’t tell you that either, it just is. I said firmly.

Cassie it’s extra credit, you go with me and I make this grade go away, problem solved and you keep your four point grade point average.

That’s blackmail. I snapped stunned and he smiled.

No it’s extra credit. We leave next Friday after class.

But that’s fall break.

And you don’t have a family to go home to, neither do I so let’s go on a research trip. He said and I sat back frowning. He sat forward and pierced me with his intense blue eyes. Listen, I’m putting together another trip for the summer, sort of an internship. I want to see how you do in the field, if you are as good there as you are on paper you’re a shoe in.

A week in the woods, alone with you? I asked and he smiled and nodded.

Uh-huh. He said and I whimpered internally my stomach in knots. I simply can’t deny how exciting the prospect of finding a werewolf or unknown species is, or the ripping desire to spend a week alone with captain stud puppy but damn. I’m already plenty distracted by him, it’s a disaster in the making and if I fuck up I lose my scholarship and I can’t afford that. However, if that grade goes on my record it’s in danger already. Lost in thought and contemplating all sides, making my internal pro-con list my internal dialogue was cut short when my cell phone rang. I shook my head to clear it and pulled it out of my purse.

What? I answered irritated by the interruption.

Hurry up Cassie, where in the hell are you?

I’m coming Piper, give me fifteen minutes. I said.

Cassie the boys await, and you’ll never guess… Ryan Snyder asked about you, he wants to know if you are coming tonight. She said and I gasped, he’s only the quarterback of the football team.

You are full of shit. I said stunned and grinning.

I am not, hurry up you must look hot for him.

That’ll only take forever… I grumbled defeated already, there’s no way he’s interested in me, not when all the cheerleaders are on their backs every night for him.

It won’t either, when are you going to admit there is a hottie underneath all those brains?

Shut up, I have to go. Be there soon.

Hurry… She grumbled impatiently and hung up. I sighed and dropped my phone back in my purse and looked at captain stud puppy.

Can I think about it?

Nope, I need an answer now so I can plan over the weekend. He said casually and I pouted. Oh come on Cassie it’ll be fun.

Yeah I’ve heard those words before. I grumbled. I do not want to go to this party with Piper tonight I already feel like barfing. Fine, I’ll go and you’ll make that flaming ‘F’ go away? I asked and he nodded.

Yes ma’am. He answered firmly, I sighed and reached across his desk to shake on it. He chewed on the inside of his cheek lost in thought then shook my hand. Ladies and gentlemen we have an electric touch, heaven help me I am so screwed. Thank you Cass, you won’t be sorry I promise. Uh-huh sure thing studly boy. I’ll send you an email with the details and what you need to bring, if you don’t have something call me and let me know, I’ll get it for you. He said standing up, I gathered my things and got to my feet.

Okay I’ll look for it. I said and turned going to the door, just as I was about to turn the knob he cleared his throat.

Hey Cassandra? He said and I looked over my shoulder. Careful with Ryan, he’s a punk. I blew out a huge breath and turned the knob and left not answering him. Tell me about it, I think I know that already. I was halfway down the hall before his words sank in and I stopped, feeling a little dizzy. How in the hell did he know I was meeting Ryan tonight? Unless he heard and how could he have? Standing there in the middle of the empty corridor I had that odd feeling that someone was watching me and a shiver shot up my spine, the little hairs on my arm stood up and I turned around; nothing there, and she’s officially losing it.

I am not wearing that! I snapped when Piper tossed me a little mini dress and stilettos.

Yes you are, it’ll be hot and Ryan will love it.

Piper it says something I don’t want to say to him.

What? Take me to bed right now or watch your chance go out the window? That’s kind of the point. It is my mission to get you laid this year and you cannot go wrong with Ryan Snyder.

He’s banged half the school Piper, there’s no telling what kind of diseases he has.

So practice safe sex. She said casually as I got dressed grumbling.

The only safe sex is no sex, I cannot afford to have an accident or get sick. I said not willing to come off my moral high horse. Yeah I think about sex, but up until now I’ve managed to keep my legs closed for business. And one day I’ll fall in love with some perfect man and I’ll have the ultimate gift for him.

You are twenty years old, at your sexual peak and you don’t have sex, it’s disgusting. She grumbled finishing her hair.

Shut up, it works for me. Besides I’m determined not to wind up like my mother.

You don’t even know your mother Cassie.

She abandoned me Piper, what reason is there other than that she screwed up and couldn’t handle having a kid. No babies for me, I have too much I want out of life to be dealing with that shit.

You’re a prude. She said and I flipped her off.

Bite me bitch.

What is your problem? She snapped.

You, you pester me more than the boys do.

That’s because you don’t go out with them, they haven’t had a chance to hit on you. She said.

Shut up and let’s get this over with. I growled and slipped on the stilettos.

You look hot, hot, hot. She squealed happily already forgetting we were arguing.

I look like a hooker. I hissed irritated and she giggled.

Beautiful. I stuck my tongue out at her and grabbed my purse and we left our room and went into the hall flooded with screeching girls, yuck, they never grow up, it’s like high school only we all live together unfortunately.

After two beers and countless hands attempting to feel me up I had had enough of this frat party bullshit, this is so not me.

I’m out Piper, see you at the dorm. I whispered in her ear and she pulled my hair.

No he’s not even here yet.

His loss, I’m out, goodnight. I said and made my way through the crowd of sweating drunken people somehow without being groped further. I got down the front steps of the old house and ran slap into a wall of quarterback. His hands slipped around my waist and he leaned down and kissed me before I had a chance to speak. I half growled, half squealed and pushed him as hard as I could breathless from his demanding kiss. He looked down at me with his green eyes and smiled.

Hey baby, come on in with me.

I was just leaving, this is not exactly my style. Thanks anyway Ryan. I said and walked passed him down the sidewalk to the street. He groaned and I heard his footsteps coming after me and his arm snaked around my waist before I could get my car door opened.

Come on Cassie stay with me… He whined, something about that just pissed me off, it’s just a game to him, I’m just a night and nothing more. I pushed him off again and got in the car. Cassie don’t you dare leave, I came here for you. He said leaning in my open window.

Sorry about your luck Ryan, there’s plenty of girls in there that want you.

You don’t?

Sure I do, but if you think I’m going to hop in the sack with you after two beers your fucking insane. Night Ryan. I said then cranked up my car and peeled out. It turns out that quarterbacks don’t usually take no for an answer. By the time I got to the red light he was beside me on his motorcycle.

Cass come have supper with me. He said and I looked over at him exasperated. Please, I just want to get to know you. I sighed and rolled my eyes then pointed to the Chili’s on the corner, he nodded as the light turned and we pulled into the parking lot. He parked beside me and opened my door trying for gentlemanly but I’m not buying it for a second, especially not after captain stud puppy’s warning. Ryan wrapped his arm over my shoulder and took me inside and into the bar area and secured us a table for two. You look so hot tonight Cass. He said lifting me up onto the barstool, it’s only five feet taller than me, not like I needed the help.

Hmm, thanks I guess. I said icily as he sat down.

Two beers please. He said when the bartender slapped the table, he nodded then went to get our beers and Ryan looked at me smiling. So tell me about yourself.

Nothing to tell, I’m just a girl from a small town with no parents and no family that’s trying to get through school and make a life for herself. I said and he nodded.

No parents? What happened?

I don’t know. I said not wanting to talk about it, I never knew her or my father so why think on it?

Must have been tough, did you have adoptive parents? He asked and I shook my head.

No I lived in a home with forty other reject girls. I answered and he wrinkled his nose.

Okay sore subject, moving on. What about music, you like music?

I love music, classical mostly; it soothes me, makes me think and feel things that other music doesn’t make me feel. I said and he frowned.

No rock and roll?

Very little, I like the classic bands the best, modern ones don’t quite do it for me.

So what, the sixties?

Love the sixties bands for sure; I think I missed my true era, I should have been at Woodstock. I said with a thoughtful smile and he chuckled.

This from the girl that doesn’t leave her dorm for a year and a half? Please, you would have hated Woodstock. Drugs, sex and rock and roll don’t appear to be your thing Cass. He said nonchalantly and I smiled.

I guess not, but I can dream of being some free spirit right? Guess the grass is always greener on the other side no matter which side you live on. I mused and he smiled.

That’s true, I hate my life. My father was a quarterback, trained me from the day I could hold a football ‘son you’re going to be a big star and if you’re not, I’ll disown you’. He said mocking his dad’s voice and I frowned. This is why I don’t wish for parents.

That sucks Ryan, and it’s a prime reason I haven’t ever had a desire for my own parents, with my luck they would suck anyway. I said dryly and he sighed.

My parents aren’t so bad, I just think there are more important things than football. I really want to be a musician but naturally they say there’s no future in that, but football, there’s future there. Burned out and broken down by the time I’m forty, then having to retire and hoping that I made enough money to live out the rest of my life comfortably so I don’t have to run a McDonalds because I don’t know how to do a goddamned thing else. He said, huh it’s sort of sad.

That’s kind of a bummer. You could be a sportscaster though, a football commentator. I mused with a smile and he rolled his eyes.

Yippee, balding and stupid I can’t wait. He said dryly. Have you ever noticed that the football game is much better when you mute the television? That’s because no one wants to hear what a sixty year old wash out thinks.

I would have to watch football to know that. I said smiling and blushing red, he chuckled and shook his head. So what are you majoring in? Besides cheerleaders I mean. I said coolly taking a drink of my beer.

Cheerleaders? I don’t major in them.

Nope you’re just buried in them every other day. I said unimpressed and knowingly, he let a smile stretch across his tan, handsome face.

I’m a psychology major. He said and I laughed out loud. Why is that funny?

Why are you doing that, so you can figure out what the other team does before they do it, or is it so that you can fully manipulate young girls straight off the farm with style and flair? I asked playfully, he chuckled and took a drink.

You are a cynical creature aren’t you? He asked and I shrugged.

See enough of the bad side of people you sort of get to thinking that’s all there is. I said disappointed.

Hmm, now that’s sad; bitter and cold at twenty. Might have to fix that for you. He said thoughtfully with intensity in his eyes. The bartender happened to be walking by right when he said that, he said nothing just picked up my beer and smiled then walked away with it. I pouted and whimpered and Ryan laughed. Oops, sorry about that. He said and I stuck my tongue out at him.

Bite me.

Might later. He said and I shook my head.

Gonna be a lot later.

Why?

Why what?

Why are you turning me out before I get to first base?

Because I have no intentions of giving myself to you. I said and he arched his brow in challenge.

I could persuade you otherwise… He said running his fingers over mine and I pulled my hand away and smiled.

You know what happened to the last guy that ‘persuaded’ me?

Uh-uh… He smiled.

I broke his arm and his nose. I said and his mouth fell open.

You did not, little tiny you… I don’t think so. He said skeptically.

Suit yourself but if I were you I’d be careful, you really need that left arm. I said narrowing my eyes at him with a wicked smile.

Please break my arm Cassie, right now, do it right now… He pleaded playfully and I kicked him under the table. You can’t hide it you like me.

So what? I asked and took a drink of the coke the bartender brought me. I reached out and grabbed his arm before he left the table. Nice catch. I said and he smiled and winked at me.

Just doin’ my job ma’am. He said. Come see me in a year and I’ll give you that beer for free.

You got it. I said smiling.

Flirt… do you always flirt while you’re on a date? Ryan asked and I blushed.

Um, well I don’t know. I said and he cocked his head to the side.

Huh?

Never been on a date before. I said and he gasped.

Oh my god, now I get the fresh off the farm reference. He said and searched my eyes and studied my face. You’re a… I see now, you are a good girl aren’t you? He asked and I shrugged.

Only compared to some. I said a little numbly.

So what do you do wrong? He asked. Besides lust after men nearly twice my age that I can’t possibly have, nothing.

I don’t know… I eat ice cream for supper three nights a week and I smoke in the bathroom with my roommate. I said and he chuckled.

That’s a punishable offense Cass I’m surprised at you. He teased.

Shut up. I read a lot, always did, I’m into things most others think is weird and I don’t care that they think it’s weird. My dream is to stay out of everyone’s line of fire until I die successful and old with a hundred cats. I said, still he chuckled.

The crazy cat lady huh? He asked and I nodded.

That’s me, crazy Cassandra and her smelly cats. I said then started laughing embarrassed at the underlying meaning of those words. If he has a dirty mind he heard crazy Cassandra and her smelly pussy. This is why I don’t go out, I make a fool of myself every time.

Our supper went by in a flurry of conversation and it turns out that Ryan isn’t so bad. His head is not full of rocks and goo from steroids and overexposure to the opposite sex. He’s smart actually, got a good personality and a good future ahead of him if he can get out from under his father’s influence.

So you want to go out after fall break? He asked walking me to my car and I smiled.

Really, you were not bored to tears?

Do you see tears? He asked leaning against the car looking down at me, I smiled and shook my head.

No I don’t. After fall break, I’ll have to check my calendar because you know it’s busting open with offers… I thought about it while he chuckled then I nodded. Yes Ryan, I’ll go out with you after fall break. I said, he smiled and opened my car door then kissed my cheek.

Have a good Thanksgiving if I don’t see you before Friday. And thanks, this was fun I enjoyed it. He said sweetly, so crushing on Ryan, this is not good news.

It was, sorry I gave you a hard time; it was worth it. I said and he grinned and kissed me on the lips, not the demanding kiss from before, but one that actually seemed to contain respect for me. I appreciate that.

Bye sweetie I’ll call you. He said and shut my door. I started the car and pulled out with a racing heart and shaking hands. There has to be a catch, there has to be, he cannot be a nice guy there’s no such thing. But, I’ll only live once, might as well experience it all if I can. Not everyone can say they date the quarterback at a state university, that’s gotta be saying something.

I pulled into the dorm parking lot and with a sigh I grabbed my purse and got out and walked up the sidewalk in front of the building. There was a slight chill in the air and I got that feeling again, I know someone is watching me. I stopped and turned around my eyes scanned the yard and parking lot, there’s people around but not many and they’re not watching me. Exasperated with my overactive imagination I flung the door open and went inside and bolted up the stairs to my room and closed the door. Sleep, I need sleep.

No chance of sleep, I discovered two hours later when I was still wide eyed staring at the ceiling. I got up and put on my running clothes and took off again, a run would clear my head it always does. With ear buds in and my usual mix of classic rock blaring in my ears to cover up the sound of my footsteps I took off down the street into the night. I took my usual one mile route through campus and back; this time of night it’s pretty empty though. Even in the dark empty campus though, I felt eyes watching me again. This is not an unusual occurrence though, it’s been happening all year. I tend to think I’m just cracking up though, it’s all the mythology and horror stories I read catching up with me. Yeah, that’s it, too many stories.

Chapter 2

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I cannot believe you are going on this trip, you’re insane. Piper griped as I checked the list that Professor Archer emailed me for the umpteenth time. I looked at her chewing on my lip.

I don’t have a sleeping bag. I said.

So go get one.

I don’t have money. I answered with a manic giggle.

So tell him you don’t have one, I bet he has two. She said and I sighed and took my phone out of my back pocket and dialed the number on the email. I have avoided professor hot pants since Friday, I even went so far as to skip class yesterday and we’re leaving tomorrow. He’s going to chew me out I just know it.

Hello. He answered and I hung up really fast squealing, Piper busted out laughing at me.

You’re the biggest chicken in the world. It’s a grade Cass, you need it to stay here. Call the man, tell him you need a sleeping bag. She said trying not to be condescending, I groaned and pushed send again and winced when it rang.

Hello? he answered.

Hi, it’s Cass Holloway. I said trying to sound confident even though I desperately had to pee all of the sudden.

Hello Miss class skipper. He said knowingly.

I was sick. I said instantly.

Yeah right, you still going with me?

Yes, I need that grade. However I have a problem.

What?

I don’t have a sleeping bag. I said and held my breath with my eyes squeezed shut, he went dead silent for a minute as though contemplating what to say to that. Wish he would say ‘you can share mine’.

I’ll take care of it don’t worry. So bring your bags to my office before class tomorrow and we’ll leave straight from there. He said calmly.

Okay… I said not calmly, Piper just shook her head trying to smother her laughter.

Right I’ll see you tomorrow then.

Uh-huh…

You alright?

Sure… yeah I’m fine. I said and he grunted.

Saw you with Ryan yesterday, looking pretty chummy. He said and I arched my brow surprised he would notice.

I guess so, he’s nice to me.

Uh-huh, alright then I have to go I’ll see you tomorrow. Bye Cassie and get some sleep you’re going to need it. He said cryptically and I blushed and smiled like a goofball, Piper exploded and fell into her pillow laughing hysterically.

Bye then. I said and hung up quickly and burst into giggles. Sleep, not a chance dude.

I’ll miss you… Ryan pouted running his fingers over my cheek, my back was to the wall and his eyes were dripping warm, yummy goodness as they looked into mine only ten feet from captain stud puppy’s office.

You won’t either… I said blushing and not buying this routine for a second, well maybe a half of one. Who doesn’t want to be wooed by Ryan Snyder. He smiled sweetly and leaned down and brushed his perfect pouty lips over mine. Puddle of goo coming right up, just one brush of his tongue over mine is enough every time. I sweetly broke away from his lips, mostly because I was getting a crick in my neck and my toes were sore from standing on them for so long and I smiled.

Sure you won’t go home with me? He asked. He floored me on Tuesday when he asked me to go home and meet his parents, there’s no way this is for real. He calls me twice a day, once in the morning and once at night before I crash and we’ve had lunch together every day this week. This kind of shit doesn’t happen to me, but I have hope, maybe he’s sincere, still I don’t trust him though.

I can’t I have to do this research trip.

I can’t believe you blew that test Cass, you’re too smart for that shit. Maybe a week in the woods looking for petrified poop will cure you of your daydreaming. He teased, I rolled my eyes giggling embarrassed again, and he chuckled and kissed my forehead. Be careful and you make him be nice to you, he touches you I’ll kill him. He said firmly, ooh let’s be aggressive why don’t we, not to mention possessive.

I don’t think you need to worry about that. Besides I don’t see a stamp on my ass that says Ryan’s girl. I said with a little mysterious smile and he grinned.

You might if you’re not careful. Have fun sweetness.

You too, eat turkey for me and make a basket when you play football with your family. I said and he laughed.

A touchdown baby, it’s a touchdown. I knew that but he thinks my lack of sports knowledge is cute, I humor him as much as possible. He picked me up and hugged me hard and spun me around once then put me on my feet. Have a good week Cassie. He said and turned around to jog down the hall, I didn’t notice that Professor Archer was there until that second. Ryan narrowed his eyes at him as he passed him and Archer did the same. Ryan turned and walked backwards looking at me. Remember what I said sweetheart. I’ll call you tomorrow. He said then winked and took off. Archer’s jaw was clenched and he opened his office door and let me in without looking at me.

If you need to go to the bathroom now is the time Cass. He said shortly.

Right, on it. I said and took off out the door and to the bathroom. I washed my hands and straightened my hair and took a deep breath giving myself a ‘you can do it’ pep talk. It’s now or never because the bus to family land just left. Time to go.

Okay you ready? He asked when I came back in, I nodded and grabbed my backpack and overnight bag. You pack light for a girl.

It’s a research trip not a trip to Buckingham Palace. I said tossing it over my shoulder, he smiled and pushed me out the door with his hand on the small of my back. Wonderful, he leads me like a boyfriend, fabulous. He closed his office up and we went down the hall and out the double doors to the parking lot.

I’m the Jeep over there, the big black one. He said pointing to the most fun looking off road vehicle ever made and I smiled.

Bitchin’ . . . oops sorry. I said covering my mouth, he just laughed and took my bags and threw them in the back with his. I climbed, and I do mean climbed, into the passenger seat and buckled up. I grabbed my baseball cap from my bag behind me and pulled my hair through the hole in the back so it wouldn’t blow around too much. He put the jeep in gear and pulled out of his parking space, when we got to the student parking lot, I spied Ryan leaning against his Mustang with his arms folded over his chest. His eyes were locked on us, his displeasure at this situation written boldly across his face. I pulled my cell out quickly and texted him.

You look pissed…

It did not take long to get the return on that one. We were just out of sight of him when my phone beeped.

Be my girlfriend…

I bit my lip reading his text thinking about what I could say. I really think he’s just being possessive and wants to stake his claim out of desperation.

I’ll think about it and let you know after break.

It’s the best I can do right now, but not enough for him; my phone rang.

Hey. I said.

Why do you need to think about it? He asked.

Because I’m here to get educated, I take it seriously and I do not need the distraction of a boyfriend or god forbid falling in love and getting my heart broken. It’s nothing personal, but I have to weigh all of the consequences of that kind of decision.

Such a good girl… alright Cassandra I’ll wait. I wouldn’t break your heart though. He said sadly, that’s what they all say.

I hope not. Hey cheer up, go home and eat turkey and pecan pie and pick on your little brother; give him a swirly or something. I said playfully and he chuckled.

I might just do that sweetheart. He said. Talk to you tomorrow.

Be careful on the road, bye. I said and hung up.

Okay I need you to navigate for me. Open the glove box and get the map out. Professor Archer said, I reached inside and pulled out a map and unfolded it.

Where to captain? I asked, he looked over and smiled.

Monroe. He said and I found it on the map and plotted out the best course to get there and told him where to go first, in no time we were blasting down the interstate headed to the woods in search of the elusive werewolf… maybe, could just be a bear.

You know there’s no way we’re getting there and setting up camp before dark.

That’s why we’re stopping in town and getting a motel room for the night. We’ll find our campsite first thing in the morning. He said coolly after we’d been on the road for nearly two hours and the sun was setting. Yikes! I’ve never been in a motel, let alone with a hot teacher; I’m doomed. I didn’t say anything, I was too busy worrying about it to speak. A long hour later we pulled into a Holiday Inn. Wait here I’ll be right back. He said turning the jeep off and jumping out, he ran inside the office and went to the counter. I watched him longingly, I can’t help it he’s just dreamy. Those faded stylish jeans hug his hips and make his butt so cute, what I can see of it from under his untucked button down, light blue today. Just as I thought of his butt he turned his head and looked at me with a strange knowing look. Holy god that gives me the willies. He turned back to the desk and smiled and took something from the woman behind it then walked out casually. Back in the jeep he said nothing, just put it in gear and pulled around to the back of the motel and parked. Taking a steeling breath I unbuckled my seatbelt and got out and grabbed my bags as he grabbed his.

He scanned a key card and pushed open the door to a smoking room, nice since I brought a pack with me on this trip. Don’t normally do that but Piper anticipated I would have the need for a break now and then. He walked right in and dropped his bag in the closet thing by the bathroom and then claimed one of the queen sized beds. I put my stuff down and got out my toiletries bag and pajamas to sleep in after my shower and put them on my bed. I stared at it numbly and could feel the disgust on my face.

What’s the matter? He asked as he looked over the menu for room service.

Um, well I’ve heard stories about beds in hotels. I said wrinkling my nose, he chuckled at me.

Like what?

Like there are really freaking gross things going on in and around them and if you look at it with an ultraviolet light you’ll be thoroughly grossed out. I said and he laughed again. I wasn’t amused, the more I thought about it the more grossed out I was. Think I’ll sleep in the chair. I said numbly and went to sit.

You are not sleeping in a chair, there’s nothing wrong with that bed and you just shower when you get up and all the icky germs are gone down the drain. He said and I sighed.

I’m not liking you very much right now. I said and he laughed again as I went to the bed and sat down gingerly.

Hungry?

Always hungry. I answered firmly, he handed me a menu.

Pick what you want. He said and I took one look at the prices and opted for salad, it’s the cheapest thing on the menu. Being on a budget as tight as mine means noodle bowls and water and spam or tuna fish; whatever is cheap. He picked up the phone and dialed room service. I need a T-bone rare with a baked potato and grilled vegetables and… what do you want Cass? He asked.

Chef’s salad please. I said and he arched his brow narrowing his eyes.

Make that two T-bones and baked potatoes. He said staring at me. Room two thirteen, thank you. I was glaring at him as he hung up the phone.

I cannot afford the T-bone Professor Archer. I said irritated and he rolled his eyes.

Please, give it a rest. I’m paying and you need the protein. And we’re not at school, call me Alec. He said firmly and I bit my lip.

Right… This is weird. How long?

Forty-five minutes. He answered and I nodded and went to my bag and dug for my swim suit, I take it everywhere just in case. I went in the bathroom and changed intending to go swim laps at the indoor pool, it will calm me like running will. Not to mention I should get a jump start burning off dinner. I padded out with a towel over my shoulder in my little pink bikini and grabbed my phone.

I’m going to swim.

Obviously. He answered. You always exercise when you’re nervous? He asked.

Always. I said and walked out the door.

Thirty minutes swimming laps as hard as I could didn’t ease my stress level one bit. I kept thinking about Ryan, then I thought about Alec. But that’s just stupid I need to get it out of my head. At least with Ryan I stand a chance at a future, Alec probably has a different girl every semester that he wines and dines. ‘Call me Alec’, I really need that Professor in front of his name, keeps me focused on the reality of the situation. I just don’t want to be that girl, the one that gets all tied up and falls in love with her professor. It never works out for anyone and I’d only get my heart broken. I’ve worked hard to keep it in one piece, I pride myself on my ability to shut others out of my heart. The very first lesson I learned is that it’s only a matter of time before a girl is abandoned.

When I got back to my—our room—I headed right for the shower with my pajamas in hand and my toothbrush in my mouth since my hands were full.

Your mouth got dirty in the pool? He teased and I looked dryly at him and took the toothbrush out of my mouth.

Kids pee in the pool, the water was around my mouth, which means that pee was around my mouth; yes my mouth got dirty in the pool. I said and he burst out laughing. Shut up.

Yes pee-pee face. He said obediently, I rolled my eyes and closed the bathroom door and took my shower. For stalling purposes I shaved twice before I got out and still didn’t manage to get my nerves to settle down, times like this I wish I smoked pot with Piper and her other friends. I put on my pink flannel pajama bottoms with the pink ribbon tie and the little sleep tank top that goes with it, wrapped my hair in a towel and brushed my teeth. I shook my head staring in the mirror, this is a nightmare in the making.

Smells good in here. I said coming out of the bathroom trying to be gracious. He looked up at me from the table with the oddest expression on his face, almost animal.

Yes it does. He said, I get the feeling he isn’t talking about the food. I put my stuff down and grabbed my lotion and went to the table and sat down. He put a coke in front of me and I shook my head.

I’m thinking a real drink is in order.

You are underage, no. He said firmly and I rolled my eyes.

Alec, I’ve been drinking for years, I’m not driving, I’m not telling anyone and it cannot possibly look any worse for you to let me have a drink than it does that you and I are currently alone in a hotel room going on a camping trip for a week. I… need… a… drink. I said smiling sweetly, he sighed and took the coke back and poured half in a glass and put some whiskey in it.

There, that’s it so enjoy it. He said irritated.

Thank you very much. I said and took a drink. I folded my legs up in the chair and squeezed some lotion out in my hands and spread it over my arms and chest and neck. It never occurred to me that this was a no, no. He never said as much but his prompt slamming of his drink was a pretty good indicator. The chlorine dries my skin out. I whispered a little embarrassed.

It does that. He answered and pushed my plate over to me. Eat before it gets cold.

Thank you… for getting me something good I mean. I said shyly and he smiled.

It’s not a problem Cass. He returned softly. The world’s most uncomfortable dinner followed that conversation, it was good but quiet. It’s one of my things, I really hate eating in front of anyone but specifically good looking men. I only eat crackers when I’m having lunch with Ryan. I finished mine, or as much as I was finishing and got up. That’s all you’re eating? He asked stunned and I nodded.

I’m a little girl, I don’t require much. I said and he sighed and looked at me with the cutest damn look.

Can I have it then?

Yes you can. I said trying not to giggle. I went and combed through my hair and spent the next twenty minutes blow drying it straight. Done with that, I flossed and brushed my teeth again and went to the bed and stared at it again. I shook my head and picked up the phone and called the front desk. Hi I would like a new comforter please. I said and looked at Alec, he had his hand over his mouth casually trying not to show me he was laughing at me, and I stuck my tongue out at him. Yes that’s right, thank you so much I really appreciate it. I said then hung up and tore the comforter off the bed and stuffed it in the corner.

I had no idea you would be so damned entertaining. He chuckled. I picked up the folder off the dresser and plopped on the bed once I pulled the covers back then spread out the articles.

I need that map. I said.

Why? He asked. I have the distinct feeling he knows the answer but wonders if I do.

Well because most of these articles give locations, I’m going to plot them out and see where the highest concentration of sightings are and we’re going there. That’s where we’re most likely to find something. I said and he smiled.

Very good, I’ll be right back. He said and he got up and went to the jeep. Now that I think of it, he probably already has done this and was seeing if I would be smart enough. We are talking about summer internship here, this entire trip is a test. I picked up my phone and answered it when it started to ring.

Hello?

Hey sweetie. I smiled and bit my lip hearing Ryan on the other end and I sat back.

Hi… did you get home yet?

Mm-hmm, about an hour ago. Just got finished with the first family meal of the week. He said sounding irritated.

Uh-oh what happened? I asked and he groaned.

My dad is a putz. He actually yelled at me for getting good grades and letting football slip. He said.

Oh no that’s horrible, I’m sorry baby. I said as the door opened and in walked Alec grinning with a comforter in his arms and a map in his hands.

Look what I intercepted… He said.

Oh good thanks. I answered.

What are you doing? Ryan asked.

Oh I was just plotting out our course for tomorrow.

What did he intercept?

Um, a comforter. I answered wincing.

Where are you? He asked.

In Monroe at a Holiday Inn, it was too late to find a campsite when we got here. I said.

What happened, did he spill something on your comforter? He growled clearly angered at this news.

No but someone else might have so I called for a clean one.

He better not be sleeping with you. He snapped.

Ryan you know better than that. I said.

Yeah, you’re a good girl, it’s him I’m worried about. There are two beds are there not?

Yes.

Good, I suppose I’ll have to deal with that. He said but his question got me thinking.

Ry?

What?

If I was there, would there be?

Two beds? He asked.

Well yeah. I said softly.

I would hate it like hell but yes there would be. He answered quietly. I miss you already.

Why? I asked.

Cass I like you, a lot; you’re hilarious and smart and gorgeous. I’d have to be out of my mind not to like you.

But I’m invisible.

No you’re not baby, not even close… hang on. What Mom? Yes I’ll be right there. He said talking to his mother. I have to go, I’ll call you tomorrow.

Okay bye.

Bye sweetie. He hung up first and then I did and plugged in my phone. Alec had cleared my bed of paper and put the comforter on while I was sitting up against the headboard curled up in a ball. I looked up at him and forced a smile.

Thanks Alec. I said and spread out the papers again and then the map and started circling sighting spots trying not to think about Ryan.

I’m going to get a shower. He said after a little bit, I looked up from my work and nodded and he went in and closed the door. Couldn’t help but think that this is like the closest I’ve ever been to a naked man before. Just on the other side of that door, in that shower stands a perfectly gorgeous man with no clothes on. I shook my head to clear it, I don’t have time for that shit, and I have to stay focused. So I went back to work, got all the points plotted and had our search area narrowed down before he walked out of the steaming bathroom in nothing but gym shorts drying his short hair with a towel.

What did you find? He asked sitting beside me on the bed casually.

Okay so based on the information we have, we need to concentrate on this five mile radius and camp right in the center, that’s where it’s seen the most. I said showing him the map.

Very good, that’s exactly what I came up with. You do pay attention to me don’t you? He teased and pushed me over with his hand on the side of my head.

You’re a twerp, I make straight A’s because I pay attention.

You weren’t last week. Mind telling me what that was about? He asked sitting back… on my bed.

I mind very much. I said firmly and started picking up the paper clippings and folding the maps. He growled and grabbed the stuff and threw it on his bed and turned to me.

I’m not going to accept that.

You don’t have a choice. I said, desperately trying to keep my eyes on his face and not his muscle bound chest and abs.

Let’s see, it was last week, before you knew that you were going out with Ryan so it wasn’t anything to do with him. However you did skip my class the other day, was that because of him?

No. I said honestly without hesitation.

Piper? He asked and I shook my head. Not family issues obviously. I see you with no other people so that leads me to believe that I might be the reason that you lost focus. He said leadingly with his head cocked to the side.

I was having a bad day last week and my mind was wandering. Wednesday I didn’t come to class because I was embarrassed that I didn’t have a sleeping bag and didn’t want to ask you for help. I said, also honest—well mostly.

That why you hung up on me when you called the first time? He asked and it was all I could do not to crawl under the bed with the gross stuff. Cassandra? He prodded. No, I hung up because I have this enormous, very unhealthy crush on you and you make me want to pee my pants every time I look at you. A hint of a smile and a twinkle in his eye and I gasped and scooted back shaking my head. He fucking heard me.

Out of my bed. I said firmly pointing.

I want you to tell me why Cassie. He said without moving.

What difference does it make Alec? I asked and his eyes flashed angry for just a second then he got up and went to his bed and got in.

Night Cassie. He said and turned off the light. I lay down and pulled the covers up around me and made pillow walls around me like