Battlefield by J. F. Jenkins Page B

“Like sleep over at your house?” he paused, frowning at Cadence. “Why?”
    â€œSo we can have male bonding and prance around in our scantily-clad undies while we beat each other up with big fluffy pillows,” Orlando said with mock enthusiasm. “Why else? I mean, it wouldn’t ever be because Alan needs a place to stay, and a guys’ night would be a great cover for that sort of thing. Nope, not at all.”
    â€œWhy do you have to be such a jerk? It was just a question.”
    â€œCause that puzzled look on your face is just so cute.” He reached over to give JD’s cheek a tweak. “Haul him over to my car. I’m not too far away either. We’ll get some food, movies, games. What do I need to bribe you with to get you to do this?”
    â€œPizza works,” JD said. “Now where’s your ride?”
    Orlando led them to his sports sedan, and JD had to fight the urge to not drool on the spot. It wasn’t necessarily his dream car, but he certainly wouldn’t complain if he had one. He helped Alan into the back and buckled him into the leather seat. The empty gaze was starting to make him uncomfortable. JD sighed, shrugging at Cadence. At least she had driven.
    â€œYou’re okay with this? I don’t have to go with him,” he said.
    â€œAre you kidding? If anything, I’m going to be spying on you through the windows at your scantily clad pillow fight,” she teased and gave him a playful nudge before adding quietly, “I think this is a good thing. Alan needs you. Orlando’s going to stress him out. Besides, you all need to find a way to get along.”
    He gave Cadence a weak smile. She was right, and it wasn’t simply because she knew everything. That was his Cadence speaking, the girl he loved and admired as his best friend. “All right, I’ll take care of him. I’ll let you know if anything interesting happens and make sure to tape anything wild and crazy.” He glanced back at Alan, and prayed silently they’d be able to break him of his trance soon.
    â€œCarrot...”

Chapter Nine
    Â 
    Orlando grabbed a shopping basket as soon as they entered the grocery store. He walked quickly, knowing exactly where he wanted to go. Alan was still having problems moving like a normal human being, so JD had to stay near him to make sure he didn’t do something even stranger than continually mumbling the word 'carrot.' This caused Orlando to slow his pace often.
    â€œYou know, do you think if we gave him a carrot, he’d stop talking about them?” he called over to them.
    JD shrugged and pulled Alan along to catch up. “I don’t know. I guess anything is worth a try right?”
    â€œHere Alan, knock yourself out.” Orlando found a bag of baby carrots and threw them at JD.
    Alan’s eyes focused on the bag for a split second before glazing over again. “Carrot.”
    JD opened up the bag for him and pulled one out, putting it underneath the alien's nose.
    â€œCa...where?” Alan stared at the vegetable and opened his mouth to eat it.
    â€œWe’re at a food store. And yes, people are looking at you. They can see you. Take it as a compliment. Just hang tight, keep quiet, and we’ll be out of here fast. We’ll talk more when we get back to my house. Eat your carrots. They’re good for you,” Orlando said.
    â€œI should go. I need to get back to my ship,” Alan said. He stood still and closed his eyes as if concentrating. When nothing happened, he frowned. “I do not have my ability.”
    Orlando exchanged a look with JD, and he was shaken by the lack of concern. Alan had to know exactly what had happened to him, and why his powers were missing.
    â€œI suppose I will have to stay with you after all. You don't mind?” Alan said.
    â€œIt’s fine. We need to be fast though. I’d like to try and get back before my sister does.