Jonquil - What am I doing here? 

Dad didn’t even let me shower. I am in his office sprawled out on the over-priced couch at the far end of the room. The only difference between me now and me 5 minutes ago is a bottle and a half of water (the 2nd half I have resting on my forehead as I sweat from today’s training.) I kicked off my trainers and socks, one leg propped on the back of the couch and the other on the arm. My eyes are closed awaiting whatever. 

Whatever didn’t take long. I heard someone in the hall and then a soft knock at the door. Dad nonchalantly called out for them to come in. After the soft click of the door being shut behind Dad’s guest, he bellows out in greeting, “Ah, Matthew, just the person I needed to see. Jonquil, get over here.” 

I jumped at the sudden command, my bottle of water falling to the floor. When I looked up, I saw him. Those eyes, dang it.  

“He is not our mate,” Evangeline made her point bluntly. 

“Ok, but those eyes. It’s not the mate bond, I know. I still feel drawn to them.” Approaching them I realized I must look a mess. The bun in which I encapsulated my hair was falling out, sweat and dirt was drying on my skin, and I think there’s blood, somewhere. While Dad watched me with all the fatherly pride the man could muster, Matthew had a strange smile, as if he knew something I didn’t. I don’t like that.  

“Matthew, this is my daughter, Jonquil. She’ll be taking a light schedule of classes at Blue Ridge Community College this summer, and I hoped you could be her ride for the commute.” Standing by Dad’s side I get a better idea about this Matthew. Dad towers over most people, and this guy is no exception. His dark hair was neatly kept, and a five o’clock shadow was starting to show. His crystal blue eyes, now that I am closer to him, seemed other-worldly. I second guessed my appreciation for them. And why is Ares scent clinging to him? 

Matthew appeared surprised at the request, “Oh! I am not taking any summer classes, but yeh, I’m happy to help.” He smiled again, this time much more awkward, and fiddled with the ring on his left hand. 

“There you go, Jonny-girl, it’s not so bad. And in the fall, we’ll rent a little apartment for you.” Dad tugged on an errant lock of my hair in a teasing manner. 

“Thank you,” I nod to Matthew and turn to Dad, “thanks. I’m gonna shower now...” Dad waved me off and invited Matthew to sit with him for a bit. I closed the door behind me and waited. 

Dad’s booming voice was barely muffled by the door, “Ares is on his way?” I imagine Matthew nodded as I didn’t hear a response. “Good. We can’t talk about it yet anyway as she’s listening behind the door.” I let out a small growl which made Dad chuckle. I stormed off, headed to my room.  

I felt a mixture of excitement and fear to learn that Ares was coming to the house. He would be so close, but not far enough away. Evangeline seemed to commiserate with me, having accepted that waiting was going to happen one way or the other. In an effort to drown out my thoughts on Ares, I put on my music, as loud as it could go, and stepped into a very hot shower.  

What am I doing here?