Forbidden Fruit

Copyright 2012 Anna Lee

All rights reserved.

Kindle Edition

http://www.annaleebooks.com

Dedication
For Mike, Thanks for believing in me. Special Thanks to Autumn Wiley and Heather Lawton for their editorial services and to Jamie Reed for an exceptional cover design. www.humanshapedrobot.com

Prologue

One year ago The musky smell of burning leather wafts in the air as I toss the inflamed sofa from my path. Im on a mission that makes a simple deterrence around the piece of furniture too inconvenient, too time consuming. At the swiftness the fire is consuming the old house, it will soon be reduced to a mountain of ashes. I close my ancient eyes and take a smoke-filled inhalation. I pick through the dominant smells of scorched wood, plastic, and human flesh, tweezing through each until I come across the one smell I can never forget, the scent of sweet pea flowers on a spring day. Its her smell. My senses lock on the intoxicating aroma, as my internal GPS hones into her location. Tearing through the house and tossing obtrusive furniture from my course, I ignore the singe of flames that lick my arms through the destroyed cloak. I will heal, just as I have since the beginning of time. What is physical pain to the torturous penance I live with each day? Pain is but a part of my eternal existence. It never lessens, and it never dies. Just before I enter the flaming door that separates me from her, an arm shoots out and grabs my ankle, sending a desperate plea of emotions through my body. Usually humans dont affect me to that degree, but it has happened a few times, in life or death situations. When humans are about to meet their end, they are able to channel their very soul into a desperate message that they cannot die without relaying. If they are unable to resolve the dying request, they sometimes linger on Earth until they can release themselves from whatever has them gripped between life and death. This is the origin of most ghosts who remain on the physical plane of earth. I sigh, not wanting to deal with this in such a desperate time. I gaze down at the charred human form, with scared blue eyes begging for help. She is burned badly, beyond recognition. A dark, wet spot embodies what is left of her nose. Teeth show through lips that should have been present, and what may once been beautiful hair is replaced by a black-spotted bald scalp. I am surprised she is still alive. Had I been here ten minutes prior, I would have saved her. But I cant now, its too late. I bend down and whisper to the dying woman, Be at ease. Then I place one hand over her heart and send pleasurable endorphins soaring through her body until the woman, with no lips, smiles. When I release my hand, her essence is extracted from her body. The womans ghostly form hovers above her incinerated corpse, gazing in awe at the stranger who walked through fire to end her suffering. But one moment later, she begins desperately trying to communicate with me. Every inch of her spirit is screaming at me to save her little girl. Shes not yet versed in communicating without a voice, or signaling without substantial hands, but she pleads with her very existence for me to save her daughter. I understand the woman perfectly, though I dont need anyone to tell me her daughter needs to be saved. Shes the reason Im here. I stride to the door down the smoke-filled hallway and bust down the flaming boards. Please let her be okay. The once pretty, powder blue room is packed with smoke. Luckily, the fire has not spread past the door. I take no time breathing a sigh of relief. Instead, I charge directly to her bed, and scoop up her limp body. One moment I am standing with her in my arms in the middle of her bedroom. The next, I am standing on her dewy, front lawn. The smell of my favorite flower overwhelms my senses as I hug her to my chest. I havent been this close to her in so long. Cradling her, I examine every inch of her petite body. No injuries, though she is unconscious. She must have been sound asleep when the fire started, as it was three oclock in the morning. I run a hand through the golden curls trickling over her shoulder, and then trace the delicate lines of her sweet face. She is the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. She always will be. Sadness and anger stir in my body from painful memories that lay deep in my heart. Just as quickly, desperation and aggression roll through my veins, scarcely adequate coping mechanisms. I am a cursed man. I can never have her, though that doesnt stop me from wanting her. I love her with my entire existence, yet I am fated to only watch her from afar, never talking to her, never touching her, never even letting her see me. I shouldnt be here now, but I couldnt let her burn alive. I only reserve that fate for my enemies. Regardless, each time she sees me, I witness the look of desperate longing in her eyes, adding salt to the wound. She wants me, which makes my abhorrent vow even more difficult to keep. Sirens echo in the distance, bringing me back to the present. Fire trucks would arrive within seconds, ruining the reunion. My soul aches as I hug her close to my chest. If I had a heart, it would be breaking all over again. I have to let her go. Again. Cupping her thin nape with my hand, I bring my face down to hers. Before we touch, I savor one last whiff of sweet spring flowers. When my lips press into hers, electricity shoots through my primordial body. She will always be the one for me. No one else can ever make me feel so alive.

I linger for seconds longer than I intend, trying to convince myself the sirens arent as close as they sound, though I have perfect senses and know the lie for what it is. When I release her lips, I draw out the smoke from her lungs. She begins to cough, desperately sucking in precious air. Gently, I rest her on the soft grass and promptly disappear into the nearby tree line. I watch helplessly as she twists on the ground, confused and alone. I root myself in place, fighting the urge to go to her. She will need someone strong to lean on, like me, because she is about to learn that she has lost everything she knows and loves, all while peacefully asleep and completely unaware. She will be devastated. I want to be the shoulder that bears the weight of her world. But I cant. Yellow clad firefighters rush toward her. I watch the scene from my hiding place, desperately wanting to be the man who she wakes to find. I fight back the usual urge to rip the head from any male who touches her, as a burly man wraps her in a blanket and carries her to the back of the truck. The desperation and aggression that ripped through my body earlier turn to full blown violence. I need to rip the head from something, anything, to release the never-ending pain from losing her. I know just the place. A second later, I port myself to the middle of an ongoing war. A desolate field, unreachable to humans, where fog rolls over the bare landscape and ancient enemies still clash in the heat of battle to this day. I dive right in, ripping off monstrous heads and dismembering body parts; destroying everything I can get my hands on. Horns, hooves, snouts, it makes no difference to me. The creatures I fight are all the same, whether they disguise themselves as human or show their beastly natures. My foes jolt with shock at the sight of me. I am the leader of my army, yet I am fighting with the wild ferociousness of a front line berserker. To them, I look more animal than man, with an untamed tenacity and an elemental fury that can end any life. When my men catch sight of me, they each do a double take. They werent expecting to see me at all, much less in a psychotic rage. Their surprise quickly turns to cheering roars. It is an honor to fight alongside your leader. My soldiers rally behind my unexpected presence. I can feel them inflate with a renewed fervor. I swing my sword as if my life depends on it, tearing apart my enemies. With each blow, I try to deaden the constant, soul deep ache in my chest. I fight with a passion that knows no bounds. Long ago, somewhere in my mind, I convinced myself that one day I could end this suffering through enough penance. Ill try again tonight, pummeling my adversaries until they are no more. When the battlefield quiets, I gaze across the tundra at the sea of ravaged bodies. Then I spear the ground with my sword and drop to one knee. One hand on the handle of the ancient weapon, the other clutching my aching chest, I cry out to the heavens. The sound of pure pain radiates from my lungs, echoing through the vast, bloody plain. Each roar frightens the warriors crowded behind me. They have seen their leader like this on occasion, though none dared ask why. I can feel the gazes of the men behind me, sense the nervous shifting of their bodies. They know nothing of my pain. Few do. Their entire existence is to fight for me, and they do so without question. My men are loyal to the core. I wander if they would still be so loyal if they knew what control one young woman has over my heart, my thoughts, and my loyalty.

Chapter 1
The little black letters began to run together as my weary eyes crossed with exhaustion. I had been pounding away on my Mac nonstop for hours and still had another five pages to go. How much more could I say about the impact of the Industrial Revolution on third world countries in Africa? Who cares enough to read a fifteen-page paper on the subject? Oh yeah, thats right, my arrogant, egotistical history teacher, Mr. Brody, and if I dont manage to squeeze out the full fifteen pages, not including the reference and title page, I will fail. He made that point early in the year, by using my best friend Bailey as an example. I clicked the save button, pushed away from the antique desk, and rubbed my burning eyes. My new school required much more work than my last. I missed the days of spending more time having fun than working. Thats what seventeen year-olds are supposed to do, right? Live it up their senior year of high school. There have been so many changes in my life since last year. All things considered, I think Ive adjusted well to a new home, new school, and new friends, but I miss my parents. My eyes automatically found the gem-encrusted frame that housed the picture of my mom and dad, perched on the top of my desk. They were all smiles, sharing a hug on their anniversary. It was taken only four months before the fire. I could still smell the smoke and feel the hot, licking flames incinerating my entire life, turning it to nothing more than a pile of ashes. I went to sleep that night with nothing more troubling than my latest crush hooking up with my best friend, and woke to find my life a living hell. I can still remember the nausea I felt on that dreadful fall evening, when I saw a gust of wind sweep the remains of my world across the lawn and into the street. That was the first time I pondered the reason for existence. If my parents lives could be reduced to soot and strewn along a street to be run over by everyday traffic, I decided that life cannot really have a purpose. I began to live my life under that assumption. I squeezed my eyes tight, fighting the tears that threatened to pour, and stood, looking for a distraction. Crossing my new, richly decorated, Charlestonian bedroom, I made my way down the lavish curved stairwell of the house that would never quite feel like home. Lily dear, how do I look? At the bottom of the staircase, I stared at my eccentric grandmother, who wore a short cocktail dress meant for someone forty years her junior. The aging woman spun in a full circle, so I could get a view of every angle. I plastered the most believable smile I could muster on my face and encouraged, Great! I had gotten good at fibbing. It was the norm among the wealthy, and when I say wealthy, I am using their terminology. Where I am from, they are simply called the filthy rich. After my parents died, my grandmother took me in, and ever since, I have been trying to be a part of her world. I dont think I will ever truly fit in. I am grateful though. My grandmother has given me a life most teenagers would die for, filled with an unlimited supply of clothes, accessories, cars, and freedom-pretty much anything money can buy. Still, nothing can replace the hole in my heart that was carved out that awful night one year ago. Im going out for cocktails with Joe, she explained, sliding her phone and wallet into a clutch purse designed for the dress she wore. The emphasis she put on Joe let me know he was her newest boy toy. She is a sixty-five year old cougar, with unlimited funds and, subsequently, unlimited dates with young bachelors. Her last fling was with a man closer to my age than hers. I am not chiding her though; I am merely amazed at her lifestyle. She has been married four times, the last one being her most successful. That is if you are measuring success by money. Her late husband passed away several years ago from a heart attack. Ironically, he couldnt be saved by the medicine his very own conglomerate of a pharmaceutical company touted as the cure for all things coronary. He left her with an obscene fortune. Be safe, I called out of habit. I was always worried when she went out. She was the perfect robbery victim. She was an elderly woman, though I would never tell her that, and she dressed as if she bathed in money, diamonds highlighting most of her thin fingers. She shot me a look over her shoulder that said she had no reason to believe she was in danger. This was one of the wealthys downfalls, they believed something as perishable as money could protect them from all the ugliness of the world. Bye Lily, she waved a thin wrist with clinking bracelets over her shoulder. Bye Rose, I returned. Oh, did I mention? No one calls her a grandmother, its either Rose, if youre a friend, or Ms. Waring, if youre employed by her. Generally speaking, youre either one or the other. I watched my unconventional grandmother exit her lavish estate on the Charleston battery, and slide in the door of an immaculately restored 1957 Rolls Royce, held open by none other than Jared, her personal chauffeur. Then I headed for the kitchen to see what dinner awaited. The wealthy have personal chefs, yet another aspect of daily life I had to get used to. Ours is a kind, red headed, young woman named Ginger. I am not entirely sure if thats her given name, or if thats what Rose decided to call her. She has been known to call people who work for her by names other than their own. I dont believe she does this to be rude or funny, but rather out of shear indifference for remembering. Ginger makes Rose three healthy, yet delicious meals per day. She offered to do the same for me, but I chose the pre-prepared meal option that I can eat at times of my choosing. Rose and I arent exactly the sit down and eat dinner together kind of family. I rummaged through the fridge and found my favorite of Gingers snacks, mixed fruit and nuts. I popped a handful in my mouth and grabbed a glass

of sweet tea. The later was the least healthy thing in Roses house. It was her only concession, because no southern belle could be caught drinking unsweet tea. I was glad for it; at least one thing in my life had stayed the same. After my snack, I made my way back to my third floor bedroom, and stood in the middle of the expansive room. I stared at the floral screen saver on my laptop for a moment, trying to find the motivation to keep working. But I was done for the night. I would finish the lackluster term paper tomorrow. I hated waiting until the last minute, but my brain was finished for the night. I washed up and crawled into my favorite blue and green shabby chic bedding on my Queen Anne style four-poster bed, an extravagance I loved. A minute after my head hit the overpriced pillow, I was asleep.

It was a magnificent garden, one that could only be created by the worlds great artists. Surely Monet dreamed this place into existence. I danced around in the glowing sun and fluttered about, caressing flowers of every hue. There were delicate pastel ones flopping in the breeze like feminine fingers. Stately ones of bright color carving their way through the field, creating a pattern of no real shape, yet beautiful all the same. I spun in a circle savoring all the beauty this place possessed, and feeling closer to home than I felt in a long time. I heard a man call my name from a distance. He was not the one my heart so readily responded to, so I pretended not to notice his beckoning. I turned and walked further away from him, feeling freer than I had ever felt with each step of escape. My trek through the garden unexpectedly lead me to a dense, wet forest. Dark moss and slimy trees were scattered through the gray fog coating the forest floor. A cold film tickled my skin, and I felt instant fear. There was something near, something I feared, something dark. I heard hooves charging behind me and turned to see my assailant. What I found took my breath away. Two monsters of grotesque proportions were plowing through branches straight toward me. Thick, black, wiry hairs were a stark contrast sprinkled over their light gray, leathery skin. They looked like a pair of over-grown rats in the face with no less than six feet of muscular, canine frames. Their bipedal movement was awkward, and the two limbs protruding from the front had long, sharp, yellowing claws. Their teeth were barred, ready for a fight. I ran. My breath came out in cold puffs and my skin coated in ice. I tried to push through the increasingly thick underbrush of the deep forest, unable to see my feet in the fog. Panic set in as I found myself quickly slowing. My feet wouldnt function properly and the branches fought me, twisting around arm and leg, until they locked me in place. The monster was so close I could feel its damp breath, moist on the back of my neck. Panic washed over me. I fell to the ground, and assumed the fetal position, hoping whatever the monster had in store for me would be quick. My last thought was of him. The one I wanted to have called my name from across the garden. A wave of nausea washed over me as my heart twisted and I felt a bottomless ache. I knew he wouldnt call my name, not anymore. He wouldnt save me from this monster. I would never see him again. I dont know how I knew, but I was sure I would never gaze upon his beautiful face or feel the sizzling touch of his skin against mine. My heart broke into a thousand shards as huge, yellow claws sank into my back, and tore through my chest. As I peered at the slick, wet talons protruding from my front, I let out a shriek. I screamed over and over, a rhythmic pattern that sounded so strange coming from my mouth.

Chapter 2
I sat up, ramrod straight, with sweat mating my hair to my neck. The rhythmic screaming took the form of my annoying alarm clock. My shaking hand swiped at the off button with unnecessary force, sending it flying from my nightstand. Though my body was sticky with sweat, I still felt cold, as if the nightmare had settled into my bones. I tried to wash away the residual feelings of slimy forest and monster claws in an extra hot shower. It worked. I felt much better when I stepped out of the supersized shower, and slipped on a terry cloth robe. Water has always been my element. I could wash away nightmares and the residual funk of a bad day with a nice long bath or brighten my soul by basking in the sun near the ocean, listening to the soft waves crashing on the shore, natures hypnotic therapy. I scanned the room I called a closet for something to wear only out of habit. I had tons of new clothes, courtesy of Rose, many of which I hadnt even had the chance to wear. At Legare Prep, we wore uniforms, as if there was a need to standardize all students. They were already standard; each was rich, raised in the lap of luxury with all the privilege money can buy (which happens to be a whole hell of a lot). My guess is that the uniforms were for the people outside looking in. I grabbed my green and black plaid skirt, chose the gray, knee high socks and gray, v-neck top today, then flat ironed my naturally curly hair into a sheet of gold. When I finished getting ready, I went down stairs and met Ginger at the door. She was waiting with a pre-packed lunch and a frappuccino. She knew me so well; I only ate breakfast on the weekends. It made me feel sick to eat right when I wake up, though around ten oclock I usually regretted the pass, because I would be famished until noon. I flashed her a grateful smile and headed out the door. I drove myself to school in what I still couldnt get used to calling mine. It was a sapphire blue, 600-horse power, Viper with every possible upgrade. Rose took care of me the only way she knew how, with plush leather and shiny paint. The campus of Legare Prep was situated on the outskirts of the Charleston peninsula, overlooking the Cooper River. The layout was more like a college campus than a high school. There were separate buildings for each department and large courtyards meant for study groups and friendly interactions between the rich youth. I frequently wondered if the staff had any idea what went on in those study groups and what kind of interacting the kids did. Hey Lily! Bailey called, bounding after me. I turned to meet her friendly smile. Only I knew that those sparkling brown eyes of hers werent at all happy. Depressing as it sounds, that shared sadness was what initially brought us together. She and I had a mutual sorrow. Mine was for the loss of my parents, and hers was for never having known a real mother. Her father was currently divorcing wife number six, for the same reason he divorced them all, he was upgrading to a newer, younger model. Hey, you cut your hair! I noticed. You like? I so needed a change, she asked as she stroked her bobbed do. Bailey mysteriously needed change whenever her father needed a change. I just went with it, as I always did, supporting her unconditionally, in hopes that some amount of consistency in her life would help. She chopped her beautiful, long golden brown hair to her chin. Luckily, she was the kind of pretty girl who could pull off any look. She lacked the height of a supermodel, barely skimming five foot, but she was thin and had curves most guys drooled over. I imagined she would look just as beautiful with a shaven dome. I just smiled and gave her a dorky thumbs up. When we passed through the antique, wrought iron gate, we found the usual group of kids loitering in the main courtyard, seniors around the center waterfall, and all others skirting the perimeter. The school was small enough to where everyone knew everyone. There werent enough people to form solid popular kid groups and dork groups. Thats not to say there werent teen queens and kings who reigned, there definitely were, its just that they reigned over a small number of kids, making a little court of supposed followers. The current queen was Lacy Van Stanbrook, heir to the Van Stanbrook real estate group. She was as one would expect the queen of a rich prep school should be, a blonde bombshell, blue eyes at no extra charge. Rumor has it she was already using Botox injections to preserve her youthful, porcelain doll face. The current King was Eric Pope, first born son of the biggest and scariest lawyer around. Gifted as he was privileged, he was the king of popularity, and the king on the football field. Bailey, Lily! Alicia beckoned us over as we approached. She is Lacys second in command, and everything from her blonde hair to her blue tinted contacts is an effort to be Lacys twin. They are always scheming together. The two create about ninety percent of the gossip in the school. Needless to say, its wise to stay on their good sides. You guys have to come to the party Saturday. Erics parents are out of the country for the weekend, and he is going to have the sickest party ever! He even has a live band booked. Baileys eyes lit up, Count me in. She was a natural born party animal, always ready to drown her latest home life drama with a healthy dose of liquor. Alicia turned to me expectantly. Actually, I would love to come, but I have this thing for Roses birthday. She would die if I missed it, I explained. She really would. Saturday was her birthday bash. I wasnt entirely sure how old she would claim to be this year but I could rest assured it wont be within twenty years of her actual age.

Aw, too bad, she turned to the next approaching students, all concern for me forgotten. I never understood her dislike for me. Oh, I forgot about Roses thing, did you want me to come? Bailey asked. This was why I loved her, she actually cared about me. I knew she would miss the party of the year to go to my grandmothers audacious birthday fest, and that was all I needed to know. Of course not. Erics party will be awesome, and I couldnt possibly let you miss it for an old ladys birthday party! Then to seal the deal, I added, Besides, I bet Nathan will be there. Nathan was her latest fling. He was Lacys leftovers, which by default should have gone to Alicia, but he seemed to have eyes only for Bailey. Nathan shmathan! I hope the twins are there! she said with excitement. Twins? To my knowledge, the only twins at Legare prep were freshmen and of the wrong sex for Bailey to get excited over. Where have you been? Jason and Derrick Stone! Only the hottest guys to set foot in this school! They just started today. I knew she had a habit of exaggerating the hotness of guys. Just last week Nathan was the sexiest thing to walk those halls, now he was merely Nathan shmathan. I have to introduce you! Before I had time to think, Bailey had dragged me to a group of curious onlookers, gloating over the fresh meat, packaged as twowow! She wasnt kidding; they were hot. Underneath a twisted old oak tree, students gathered around the two new faces, laughing hysterically. And thats why we can no longer attend Morningside Prep, a charming, brown haired, blue eyed, guy said. He eagerly soaked up the subsequent shocked laughs, with a few scandalized gasps. Lacy flipped her long, beautiful, silky hair over her shoulder, Sounds illegal. The blue-eyed twin doing all the talking flashed her a mischievous, lop-sided smirk that promised many illegal, maybe even morally questionable things. She basked in the promise of a potential bad boy to shake up her predictable, little world. When I breached the crowd line, my skin immediately began to crawl with the suspicion that someone was watching me. The feeling was no stranger to me. In truth, I had felt this way on occasion for as long as I could remember. At random times, I swore I could feel someone or something watching me. It used to scare the living hell out of me when I was a kid, especially in my room at night. I imagined all sorts of monsters in the closet and under the bed. You name it, and my mind created it. I knew looking around would prove nothing substantial, just my strange paranoia, but as always, I looked anyway. And there he was, staring straight at me, with an unnatural assessment that defied all socially appropriate behavior. My skin went from a sensation I likened to a tingly crawl to a full-on, hair standing on end, uncomfortable feeling. It was the other twin. They obviously werent identical. The one who so easily entertained a group of complete strangers had the same skin tone and medium brown hair, though the quiet twin had dark brown eyes that were in direct contrast to his brothers crystal blue. He was also shorter and stockier than his boisterous twin. I broke the trance-like eye contact, knowing full well he was still staring at me, practically boring a hole through my skull. It was alarming. I found myself shifting in place, trying to find a comfortable stance in an awkward situation. I shifted my hair to hide my face, then turned around and pretended to be looking for someone in the parking lot, desperately wanting to retreat. So Jason, whats it like in juvi? An enthusiastic Bailey asked. She was wide-eyed, hanging on his every word. I never heard his story. I was so completely aware of the predatory gaze from the other twin, who I later learned was Derrick. I willed myself to focus on Jason, and found myself smiling and laughing when others did, though I had no idea what was funny. Dont look at him, dont look at him, I coached myself. Damn it! I looked. What did I expect? That repeated chant never worked. His stare was unchanged, just as creepy and unnerving as it was before. Why was he watching me? And why so intense? I didnt recognize him, so he couldnt know me. He wasnt checking me out either. His eyes held an odd, completely detached expression, like a scientist observing the behavior of a rat. He was completely unconcerned with whether or not the rat died of the experimental injection, was just objectively curious of the outcome. He apparently had no concept of manners. My mother would roll over in her grave. The bell rang. Thank God. I turned toward my first building without looking back, though I could still feel the disturbing presence of eyes on the back of my head.

Lunch couldnt come fast enough, I was my usual starving self as I ordered a sweet tea and sat with Bailey in the senior section of the cafeteria, or as the wealthy call it, the dining hall. There were no long cafeteria-style tables with squeaky peg seats like my last school had (and most schools in America), instead we had posh leather booths with conversational style seating arrangements, fit to groom the rich youth for a lifetime of dinner parties and banquets. The only thing that resembled a cafeteria was the food line, but I suppose there is no other way to serve food than have servers and that would be downright ludicrous. I opened my lunch box to find my favorite meal, a good old-fashioned sandwich. Nothing fancy, just turkey, cheese and mayonnaise. Sometimes I get the feeling Ginger knows me better than I give her credit for. She makes food that reminds me of home. I made a mental note to thank her for that. I was smiling at my sandwich with a warm fuzzy feeling when someone slid onto the bench beside me. Are you going to admire it or eat it? a

cocky voice laughed in my ear. I immediately recognized it as Jasons, the new kid. I became embarrassed the minute I registered what I must have looked like, smiling at a turkey sandwich. With flushed cheeks, I turned to him and said the first thing that came to mind, I havent decided. He smiled. Lily is it? I grinned an affirmative. What a beautiful name for such a beautiful face. His gaze passed over me with an admiring appreciation. My stomach executed a summersault, and my face heated. I know what people think when they look at me. They see a pretty face, with long blonde hair and blue eyes. I look like the generic Barbie prototype, it girl, which was a stark contrast to what I felt like inside. Jason was just another guy who would likely never get more than skin deep. Part of me liked the idea. There was comfort in knowing that I wouldnt have to reveal my true self to anyone, then I would never have my heart broken. It would be like me laying in the middle of the road, letting the vultures tear me to pieces. I had already lost so much in my short life. I wanted to hang onto myself for as long as possible. So, I just gave Jason another smile. He stared at me with an ever-increasing grin spreading across his face. I had trouble looking away. His eyes took in every inch of my features, until finally returning to mine. We will definitely have to get to know each other, he said, as he brushed back a loose piece of my hair, skimming my neck and shoulder as his fingers receded. Then he walked away without another word. I was left speechless. I mean, one minute, he looked at me as if I were a piece of candy he wanted to devour, and the next, he was walking away as if nothing ever happened, as if he merely stopped by to say hi and nothing more. Nice! Bailey exclaimed, clearly having witnessed the entire ordeal. I glanced across the dining hall and met eyes with several others, including Lacy, who did not look at all happy about the new boys move. Great, I thought. The last thing I felt like dealing with was the psycho mean girl Lacy became when anyone stepped in her way. Then I met eyes with Derrick. I squirmed in my seat under the scrutinizing look he gave me. What was his deal? Maybe he didnt like his brother talking to me. Maybe I didnt care. I raised my eyebrows in challenge to him, in a rare moment of bravado. He did nothing. He didnt accept said challenge, he didnt look away, he didnt even change that incredulous expression. He just continued to stare, and my skin began to crawl. All courage gone, I left the cafeteria under the disguise of needing a restroom break. The new kid was a hot flirt, with an inclination toward me. His tag along twin brother was total creeper. Lovely. There was no such thing as privacy in a school like this. By the end of the day, I had heard rumors that I was going to Erics party with the new kid, making our first appearance in public as a couple. No matter how many times I smashed the rumor, it seemed to not only not go away, but return with a new element of surprise and scandal. That was Legare Prep.

Chapter 3

I perch on a branch of the huge Oak tree outside her bedroom window, hidden by mossy foliage. I know I shouldnt be here, but I cant help myself, the same excuse I have given myself for thousands of years. If only she remembered like I do. Or better yet, if only I could forget like she does. Life wouldnt be so lonely. Maybe I could be with another, no strings attached. Who am I kidding? She is and will always be the only one for me. Sometimes I think its better to have never loved at all, than to go through the constant hell of losing the one you love. She is writing in that journal again. She pours all her thoughts and feelings into a book, because she has no one left to confide in. Rose is a poor excuse for a parent. She buys her things and lets her do pretty much what she wants, although I wish she were stricter. A beautiful girl like Lily can get into a lot of trouble if she isnt careful. And she is innocent. God help her, she hasnt a bad bone in her body. But that can change. The world can change her. I wish I could touch her soft skin again, run my fingers through her blonde locks. I could be the man she needs, not just the man behind the scenes, pulling the strings. Those beautiful blue eyes that sparkle with life should be looking at me. And those lush, always slightly peach colored lips should be mine as well. Her features are perfect in this life, just as they originally were. Actually, she looks remarkably like her original self. Life after life I endure this labor of love, of keeping her safe, albeit a self-appointed labor. It can be a job of great reward, like when I see her smile or laugh, or it can be a job of great punishment, like when she lusts after another. I hate my job then. Tonight Im left watching her sit next to the glow of a candle. Her hair is piled in a messy knot on top of her head, pieces falling randomly toward the open journal, as she bites her lower lip and writes. Some habits die hard. Like this irresistible signature tendency of hers when she is either thinking hard or embarrassed. I know her by her soul, but if not for that, I would know her by the way she blushes. She bites that plump lip, long eyelashes nearly graze her high cheekbones and a rosy fever colors her cheeks. She is beautiful in every life, but particularly in this one. She has no idea the effect she has on humans. Boys want her but intrinsically know to stay away. For this she is innocent of all things sexual, something I find perversely satisfying. But duty calls, I cant stay out here all night as I would like, admiring the view. I have orders that must be followed, and a job to do. I glance around, making sure I havent left any kind of trail that could lead anyone to her, and then I port myself far away from her.

Chapter 4
Saturday afternoon I walked from Roses mansion on the battery to the shops on Market Street. It was a beautiful, sun kissed day, with sea breezes and salty air whipping down the old cobblestone roads. Most everything I needed in Charleston was within walking distance, and though I loved the Viper, it felt good to travel the old-fashioned way, with my own two feet. The city of Charleston is beautiful, with its historically ornate buildings, cobled streets, and gas lit street poles. There are ordinances against ubertall buildings and modern architecture, which many of the new comers found archaic and pushed for the industrial growth of the seaport. I was glad for the stubborn Charlestonians, who managed the board ofwhoever was in charge around here. I had never seen the faces of those in charge but through cocktail parties and old-ladys gossip, I assumed they were of old southern money. Even the politicians faces people see plastered on billboards and television arent really in charge. They are simply lapdogs from whoevers pocket they feed. Unfortunately, thats the way of the world. I was moving from store to store, racking my brain for what on earth to get the woman who has everything. I thought perusing the shelves of expensive boutiques would at least give me an idea, but instead, that ended up a fruitless endeavor. Most of what I found consisted of cheesy, overpriced trinkets meant for tourists with deep pockets. My feet needed a break after two hours of walking down the dangerous sidewalks of the city. More than a couple times, I almost took a tumble over the sneaky tree roots, slicing and snaking their way through the concrete every few feet. It was quite a challenge trying to look for shops and simultaneously watch my feet every time I took a step. In this regard, I was still an outsider. Ive heard many Charlestonians find it amusing to watch unsuspecting tourists trip over the root-infested pavements, and then look around and pretending nothing happened. It happened to me at least once per week. I decided to take a detour at my favorite coffee shop to recharge my batteries. Its a little place called Kaminskys. They specialize in incredible deserts and great coffee. I had a sweet tooth after all the walking and scanned their display of decadent deserts, from cakes to scones and pies. I ordered a chunky slice of lemon cake and a medium regular coffee. I loved coffee. I was especially fond of good old-fashioned brewed coffee with lots of sugar and cream. I never got into the wild flavored stuff, it just seemed wrong somehow. I devoured the cake faster than I meant to and was savoring the last bite when a newly familiar voice sounded from behind, Well, if it isnt the beautiful Lily. I stiffened at first and then relaxed, recalling the delicious face that went with that voice. Before I could spin around, Jason came into view, sliding into the seat right next to me. Well, hi there, I greeted his grinning mug. Lemon? He asked, I would have thought youd be a blueberry girl. Weird comment, I thought, but I went with it, Because of the car or the book bag? A smile slowly crossed his face as he stared for a few awkward seconds before responding, Actually, it was the eyes. His bore into mine as if he could see something I couldnt. Yes, of course, I have blue eyes, but he was looking at something different, something I couldnt quite figure out, something I didnt know. Are you coming or leaving? I asked, trying to shake his intense gaze. He finally released his hold and answered, Leaving actually, you? Leaving, I confirmed. I have to get busy shopping. New clothes? he asked as if he thought the idea of clothes may be funny, a very strange comment coming from a pretty boy who obviously dressed to impress, head to toe in designer clothing. Actually, I am trying to find a gift for my granI mean Rose. I rolled my eyes to myself. I was surprised to find that I was consciously aware of her name specification even when she was nowhere to be seen. Her Birthday? he guessed. Yep, I confirmed, Its not every day your grandmother turns thirty, I added, immediately feeling bad for the slight. What was wrong with me? I wasnt being myself at all, but rather someone I didnt like. His perfectly straight and brilliantly white teeth gleamed. I noticed for the first time, he had cute little dimples on either side of his perfect mouth. I wondered how many girls that smile had worked on. How many pieces of clothing were removed for that charming, irresistible grin, not to mention those eyes? Having any luck? he asked. Huh? Oh god, Im such an idiot, I was lost in his eyes once more, completely forgetting what we were discussing. I tried to shake the image of what a dumb-blonde I must have looked like with a huge question mark plastered on my face. Ah, no, actually, she buys everything she wants, so I am pretty much left with nothing to get her except some random gift she will likely have to feign liking.

He curled his hand in front of his face, examining his finger nails. All you have to do is ask I did need help, but I had to wonder what help he could offer. What did he know about older women? I accepted mostly to get him to stop with the feminine gesture. I found it difficult to take flamboyant and dramatic people seriously. Rolling my eyes, I asked, Jason, will you help me find a gift? Why I thought you would never ask, he said, grabbing my hand and leading me out the shop and down the street. His hand felt warm and alien at the same time. I liked the feeling. There was always excitement in new things. Cars, clothes, boys, they were all things that made me feel like I was floating, but then they always got old and lost their excitement. I wondered how people stayed in love for twenty or thirty years. I hoped one day I would find someone who never tired of me. So far, my love life had been nonexistent. Most people assume I have experience with dating. Hell, I think most people assume I have had sex. In truth, I have never been past first base and that is no exaggeration. Even Bailey doesnt believe that. I am a seventeen-year-old, completely inexperienced virgin. But its not for lack of trying, its for lack of options. I can count on one hand the number of boyfriends who have stuck around for longer than two weeks. Unfortunately, none have lasted a full month. Sometimes I think I have a biological repulsion mechanism that runs through my veins. I suddenly realized I was comfortable with Jason. And that was off. Wheres your brother? I asked looking around. You interested in him? he asked, irritation clear on his face. No, not at all. Then I blushed realizing how rude I sounded. I mean, I just always see the two of you together, thats all. He eyed me suspiciously, a question clearly on his lip. Then he dropped it. So tell me about Ms. Rose. What does she like, what makes her happy? He seemed amused, swinging our hands between us. Well, she likes to drink and go out dancing. She likes men; I think shes single right now I stopped short, realizing I was painting Rose in the worst possible light. I made an addendum, Shes really a great person. I mean, I found myself searching for words. She enjoys life, he suggested. Exactly, I felt relieved he hadnt looked at me like a terrible person for speaking of an elderly woman in such a way. I could hear the disapproval in my own voice as I described her fancies. Perhaps he had a Rose in his family too. Does she have a favorite place? A favorite past time? He inquired. I thought a minute as we strolled lazily down the street, passing stores fashioned from antique buildings. She loves tons of places. She travels as a hobby. Just another sign of her privileged life, though I didnt dare complain aloud. I was, after all, a benefactor of said privilege. Wheres her favorite travel spot? Jason fished, bumping a shoulder with mine as we walked, still hand in hand. Paris. It was like an epiphany. Thats it! She has been talking lately about going back, maybe she would like something Parisian. I was relieved, Thanks, I said through a blushing grin of my own. But where would I find something Parisian in Charleston? I asked, glancing down the street, but not really looking, I was too busy reclaiming my vision from his intimate stare. How about this? he grabbed my shoulders, and spun me around to face the window display of the little shop, less than two feet from my face. I sucked a little gasp of air. What lay before me was the most perfect framed painting of Paris at night I had ever seen. Not the modern day city, but rather the city in full bloom of the Renaissance. It's perfect! I darted into the little boutique and eyed the artwork. What luck, I thought. Jason pops up, and I immediately find what Ive been looking for all day. I swear I didnt see that painting the first time I walked by. StrangeDont be ridiculous, I told myself, its just a coincidence. Jason came to my side, Awesome, he agreed. I didnt bother asking the clerk for the price before I told her I would take it. A year ago, I wouldnt have made such a lofty purchase, but this was for Rose and technically, it was Roses money that was buying it. Who was I to cut corners for her birthday? I gave the clerk my card and signed it without looking at the total. She took her time wrapping it and then formed a perfect, hand-made bow.

Jason wasnt just easy on the eyes, he was easy to talk to. That is when he wasnt giving me that I want to taste you look. I was so lost in our conversation that I was surprised to find my house right in front of me. Jason had walked me all the way home, carrying the large, awkward painting. Thanks, I told him sincerely. No problem, he winked at me. I couldnt help the smile that spread across my face, and then as usual, said the first thing that came to mind. Hey, if you arent doing anything later, you could drop by for the party. He smiled.

Oh, Im sorry I forgot about Erics party. Im sure youre already going to that one, I back pedaled. Of course he was. He was the new boy toy that Lacy had her eyes on. I was, he conceded with a nod, But I think I would prefer going to the party where youll be. There was another one of those skin piercing, penetrating gazes. He was really cute. No, he was more than cute, he was hot, and his personality made him charming and irresistible. He looked like an Abercrombie poster boy, yet he just ditched the teen queen for an old ladys birthday. I had to admit, I was intrigued. Well, I spun around, now facing my house, this is the site. I waved a hand at the large, stately, white columned mansion. People should be arriving around nine oclock. Great, he beamed. I thought he sounded a little too enthused for the event, but I was flattered all the same. We said an awkward good bye that included an extra long hand caress, as he handed me the painting. Then I headed toward the house, more than a little excited about my new date.

Chapter 5
By six-thirty I was knee deep in balloons with Gail, the party planner hired for most of Rose's parties. The theme for this year was all things sparkly, silver and white, a tribute to Rose's favorite things: diamonds, platinum, and pearls. I wondered if anyone else would recognize the irony of the colors. Wow, where was the mean girl attitude coming from? I mentally chided myself again, feeling terribly bratty for my thoughts of late. Whatever had gotten into me yesterday apparently had not left. I didnt judge others, I was grateful for the life Rose had given me. I could be in an orphanage right now. I shook my head. Back to business. Thus far, I had successfully filled over five hundred white balloons with helium and attached sparkling spiraled ribbon to each. When finished, the house would look like a castle opening into a never-ending white shimmering cloud of a sky, or at least that was the look Gail was going for. There were beautiful white lilies and orchids arranged on every surface. Furniture had been restructured for ease in traffic flow and tall cocktail tables had been added for conversational areas. I added my own touch to the party by bringing down my favorite picture of Rose. She was nearly seventeen years old when it was taken, and she was an absolute beauty queen. I rubbed a finger over the glass. She had the same delicate features and glowing skin my mom had. At seven-thirty I rushed upstairs to figure out what to wear. I knew all Rose's guests would be donning fancy suites and cocktail dresses. I wanted to fit in, so I searched my bedroom-sized closet for options. There were a few exceptional gowns that Rose had clearly picked out with care. She had a knack for fashion that I envied. Most days I was lucky to pick out an outfit that matched. I chose at random a beautiful peach colored dress with spaghetti straps and slipped it on. It was a flattering fit that fell into a light and flowing thigh length drop. I twisted my hair into an elegant pile with pretty glittering pins, and then touched up my makeup. Looking into the mirror, I immediately felt both gorgeous and out of place. I saw a girl who looked grown in all areas anatomical, yet her eyes betrayed her innocence. I wondered then if that was some sort of omen. Was I trying to live in a world that I didn't belong, one I wasnt ready for? I shook my head of all negative thoughts; I was here and that was reality. There is no place for doubt, Rose would tell me. If you live under the shadow of doubt, you will get left behind. I spritzed myself with sweet pea body spray and gave one last look in the mirror. There was no place for me here, but until I found my place, I would try to have fun in the land of opportunity and abundance. With a self-reassuring pep talk, I made my way to the party that should just be starting. As I rounded the stairwell, I heard the unmistakable, shrieking voice of our neighbor. "Its as if I am in heaven! Oh Janice, how do you do it?" Mrs. Middleton exclaimed, placing a patronizing pat on the party planners shoulder. I couldn't help to correct, "Gail. And yes she is the best!" Then I flashed an I'm sorry smile at Gail, our hard working event planner. Mrs. Middleton placed a hand across her heart as if it made her next line mean so much more. "Why, how could I mess that up! Of course, I have been busy rehearsing my lines for the next movie, and wouldn't you know it, I have been calling everyone Janet because of it." She laughed and then we all laughed with her as if we not only bought her lie but also sympathized with her hard working life. Mrs. Middleton was a trophy wife, or at least she was in the eighties. Her husband was a serious movie producer in his day (though his last movie predates my own birth day). He was a nice looking older man, only he couldnt seem to talk enough about his accomplishments. His wife landed him when she was in her twenties, and he was in his forties. Plastic surgery, Botox, and hair dye have kept her looking like a movie star well past her prime. As cars began to drop off guests, the house filled with dazzling dresses and dark suites. I greeted our other next-door neighbors, the Mannings, as they arrived. "Lily dear, you look fabulous!" Mrs. Manning squeezed my arms, "A spitting image of Rose!" I never thought of myself in the same category as Rose and my mother. It must have been the dress. "Mrs. Manning, you look fabulous yourself!" She was a short, plump, black-haired older woman who had no clue that the tight dresses she wore showed off her luggage rather than hiding it. But she was a nice ladyannoying, but nice. I didn't know if she deserved all the nasty gossip that goes around about her, but who was I to judge, I was no more meant for this life than she was. She founded a social networking website for people with strange fetishes. Its success blew her away and made her a very rich woman. Apparently, millions of people will pay $19.99 per month to get in contact with others in their area who also have obsessions with (and get their kicks from) things like crushing bugs and dressing like stuffed animals. In typical fashion, I felt the need to make up for other peoples meanness so I asked her, "Can I get you anything to drink?" I would love some wine!" her eyes glittered. As I made my way to the open bar, I could feel a presence floating behind me. I had a feeling who it might be so I just tried to ignore him, hoping he would go away. I'm not very good at being mean. I could feel the hot breath on the back of my neck before I heard his words. "You shouldn't taunt me like that." He gave a little laugh at the end that sent the wrong kind of chills up my spine. I turned around, embarrassed for his audacity, and played innocently stupid. "I'm sorry Mr. Manning?" He was much younger than his wife, still in his thirties I believe, with thin, sharp facial features, and a cap of yellow hair. He wore a constant smug expression on his face and cheated on his wife every chance he got. "Lily," he teased shaking his head with a tsk. "I think you know exactly what youre doing." His smile was disturbing and his rapacious ogling

projected a feeling of conquer and dominance. I had no idea what his particular fetish was, nor did I want to know. I didnt know much about sex, especially the kinky and likely illegal aspects. His eyes promised to teach me. It scared the hell out of me. It was as if he was testing the waters with me, seeing if I would let him in. I know my face turned a thousand shades of red as I looked down at my feet, trying to find a way out of his pedophilic fantasy without causing a scene. He caught my chin and lifted my head, Ah, you are interested. I didn't move. My hand twitched at my side as I fought the urge to slap him in front of everyone. I wasnt interested; I was frightened. The worst part was, I believe my fear of him actually turned him on. Instead of ruining Roses party, I said as calmly as I could, through clenched teeth, "Mr. Manning, I believe your wife is waiting for this." I shoved the glass of red wine in his free hand, spilling a little. He looked down at his wet hand, whipped out his folded pocket handkerchief and wiped at the liquid. Then he smiled slowly and whispered, "I like this game you play." He reached for my face and slid his thumb over my bottom lip. I jerked my head out of his hand and swiftly walked away. My heart was pounding and my blood was beginning to boil, when I ran right into someone. Right after my head hit his shoulder, I immediately began apologizing, completely disoriented. "Going somewhere?" a familiar young voice asked with amusement. I smiled with relief. The handsome face of my date was standing in front of me wearing a very nice navy blue suit. I chuckled with him as I rubbed my forehead. I hit him harder than expected. "Are you okay?" I asked. "Of course," he smiled. I knew he was lying, my head was throbbing and his shoulder had to be as well. "You look beautiful," he assessed as he glanced at my dress. I flushed again, ensuring my face was now a ripe shade of purple, and said, "Thanks. I'm glad you came." "Me too," he grinned. I twisted my hands, thinking of what to say and how to forget about the Mr. Manning episode. I conspicuously looked behind Jason to make sure the creep twin wasnt accompanying him. He wasnt. Thank God. You okay? Jason asked. Yeah, Im fine, why? I retorted with too much defense to be believable. You seem bothered, he noted. Well, your shoulder did just give me a minor concussion, I teased. He laughed genuinely, eyes sparkling. Then I decided, "Come on, Ill show you around." He gestured for me to take his arm. How gentleman-like, I thought. I pointed out many of Roses guests and told him anything amusing I could recall. As we made our way through the crowd, a cold, skinny hand grabbed my upper arm. I turned to say hello to Rose's best friend and was engulfed in a cloud of smoke. Mrs. Stuart was a dangerously thin old woman, with fiery red hair. She always had a clove cigarette in her hand, which she swore made her sexier. She was a dirty old woman in the sense that nothing was off limits. She had no qualms with dating married men and exercising her right to do whatever the hell she wanted because she was old, rich, and powerful. I had moral issues with the way she lived her life, but I still liked her. She was the type of lady who had fun wherever she went and was a riot to be around. "Ms. Stuart! You made it!" "Lily, don't be ridiculous! Would I miss Rose's birthday? She leaned in closer to me, I mean how many times does a woman turn thirty?" she laughed. "Ah, so it is thirty again?" I teased. "Why I have no idea what you're talking about!" Ms. Stuart winked at me and then turned to Jason. She didn't bother to hide her approval of his looks. "And this is?" she asked with a wickedly cocked eyebrow.

I flashed Jason an embarrassed grin and introduced him, "This is Jason." She held her hand out for him to take in a flirty handshake. He didn't miss a beat. He took advantage of the opportunity to shine. He proceeded to kiss the back of her hand as if she were some kind of royal. She bought it. Glowing from head to toe, she batted her eyes at him as if she were a teenager. I think I embodied all the embarrassment of the situation. Clearly, the other two had no shame. "Why Lily, you will have to bring this one home more often," Ms. Stuart pinched his cheek and gave him a look that totally devoured. I think if he were a cherry pie, she would snatch him away and savor every bite as she crouched in a corner, unwilling to share. I have to admit, it was kind of creepy. I was glad when Rose made her grand entrance and sizzled the bizarre flirting between the teen and the old woman. "Rose!" Shouts from everyone rung in a chorus. She walked in with her new boy toy, unsurprisingly young and handsome. My eyes lingered on the beautiful, flawless pearl dress she wore. But what was even more impressive was how she looked in it. For a woman her age, she was hot!

"Oh my!" she brought her hands to her mouth in apparent shock at the decor. She loved it! Working all afternoon for this moment was totally worth it when I saw the sincere delight on her face. She was a princess in a fairytale ball in honor of her. Friends immediately crowded her from all sides, and I could no longer see her. I tried to tame the welling in my eyes, blinking rapidly and taking deep breaths. I looked back at Jason. He was smiling at me. "Nice job," he complimented. "Thanks," I accepted. I looked around for a distraction as he was trying to put me in another one of those eye embraces. I felt flighty around him, nervous. "Can I get you anything to drink? Some wine maybe?" Then I added, "Sorry, but we dont have any beer." "Wine is great," he affirmed. I proceeded to the bar and asked the server for two glasses of desert wine, my favorite. I hadnt developed a taste for the complex wines as I have been told, though I prefer to call them bitter. I know what people think. Shes only seventeen, how is she getting away with drinking like this? Well, its simple really. The wealthy drink wine like I drink sweet tea. Its whats for dinner and that usually includes teenagers...at least under Rose's roof. I guess she remembers a time when the drinking age was much lower and doesn't see anything wrong with it.

As the night wore on, Jason and I had several glasses of wine, and I was feeling more than a little tipsy. I felt relaxed and carefree. I suggested we take a walk to get away from all the business and money jabber that those parties always turned into. I bravely took Jason's hand and led him out the front door. The cool breeze from the Charleston battery grazed my skin like a silk scarf. I took a deep breath of ocean air and sighed, "It feels awesome tonight." Jason nodded his head in agreement beside me. We crossed the street directly in front of my house toward the inner harbor. Jason leaped onto the four-foot tall ledge that was the battery walkway. I stared at the barrier, then I assessed the tingling sensation in my legs and arms, and lastly the spiky heal situation on my feet. I had a hard time pulling myself over the ledge sober, much less in this condition. Jason bent down and grabbed me under the arms. With a dizzy head, I discovered I was standing directly beside him. "Wow!" I said in astonishment, "How did you do that?" He looked perplexed. "You just picked me up like I was nothing!" I couldn't believe the strength of this guy. I mean, he wasn't small but he wasn't nearly muscular enough to toss around over a hundred pounds! Jason's expression was one of mixed emotions that was hard to read. I couldnt be sure, but I think I offended him. Either way, he looked uncomfortable, so I dropped it. Considering my sobriety level, it was very possible I was making a big deal out of nothing. I tried to smooth over the moment, not wanting yet another date to go running for the hills. "So, shall we?" I asked and found his hand ready for mine. We strolled down the breezy walkway, one side beautiful old historic houses, and the other midnight black waves crashing into the battery walls. I tilted my head back, examining the clear night sky. Each star twinkled like tiny little diamonds on a black velvet bed of cloth. The wine had my eyes dancing and my body off balance. I laughed, completely carefree as I stumbled a little. Jason was right there, with a hand supporting my back. His face eclipsed the sky as he leaned over me. There was hunger in his eyes. I felt his free hand sliding up my neck and supporting my tilted head. He was beautiful. That was all I could think as I gazed into his face, against the glittering sky. When his face lowered and I felt his hot breath on my lips, I closed my eyes and parted them, welcoming his kiss. He was warm and tasted sweet from the wineor maybe thats just how he tasted. I felt my feet give way as his kiss melted me like southern honey. He held me in that incredible embrace as my insides fluttered like butterflies and my mind entertained thoughts that embarrassed even a drunken me. The he stiffened. I could feel his entire body spring to life, alert. All sensuality gone, he tilted me back to a standing position. I swayed in place. When I saw his face, I could tell something had startled him though he was wearing a smile. "Are you okay?" I asked. "Yes, I..." he glanced behind me for a brief second and then returned to my face, "I have to go. I told my parents I would be home early." His affect didn't match what he was saying. I was confused. "Okay..." I said bewildered. One minute we were having the best kiss I had ever had and the next he was running off. Was there something about me that turned him away? Maybe I really did excrete some sort of warning: death to all pheromone. He looked behind me once more and then made a hasty retreat. "I will see you at school Monday!" he called over his shoulder. I watched, dumbfounded, as he quickly paced away from me and disappeared into the night.

I turned around, curious to see what he kept glancing toward. A chill ran down my spine. There was a fully cloaked figure standing on the battery not twenty feet from me. My mouth dropped open slightly as I took in the frightening presence. The dark cloak waved in the wind, though it managed to conceal the tall man beneath. I recently learned in psychology about the fight or flight response when people are placed in scary situations. I remember thinking I would be a serious flight risk if anything at all was terrifying because it made sense. Why wait around to see if you get mugged or murdered? Apparently I was wrong. My first thought was not to run as fast as I could, which would have been the logical response. Instead, I became angry that Jason left me there, in the dark, with a creepy Jack the Ripper type, without any warning. What kind of person does that? It must have been the alcohol that made me so brave, because what I did next, was completely and utterly stupid. I had a staring competition with the potential serial killer. He stood there with shoulders squared toward me in a wide, dominant stance. I stood, in my slinky dress and pointy heals, with my bare shoulders squared at him. I had no idea what I was doing or what I was thinking. It was one of those moments when your rational mind is moved to the back burner and all you know is what you are feeling. My body was acting, and I was just along for the ride. The cloaked man and I stared each other down for what seemed like an hour, but was probably a minute. Unquenched rage wafted from the folds of his coat. He was dangerous, and I just stood there in a sort of trance. As the time passed, I wanted more and more to run, though it became less of an option. I thought for sure if I ran after challenging the bull, he would surely chase. Just as my mind started to take back control of my body, I felt myself begin to shake. My legs no longer felt stable, and I found it increasingly difficult to breath. I was beginning to panic and had no idea how I was going to get away from a potential Ted Bundy. I glanced around me, terrified. The cloaked figure moved. I gasped, sucking in cool, salty air. Then I watched him turn on his heel and simply walk away. I stood there baffled for a minute, as I watched the figure retreat into the distance, down the long battery, eventually fading into the night. With still shaking legs and a spinning mind, I walked back inside and called it an early night. I went to my room in a complete zombie-like state. I heard my name a few times and ignored each as I passed through the crowded parlor and made my way to my bedroom, where I felt safe.

Chapter 6
I was walking with Bailey down the corridor on the way to our first class, complaining about Jason and trying to describe his odd behavior on the battery. She didn't seem like she found it odd, so I added the part about the Jack the Ripper standoff, sure she would be convinced something was wrong. When I mentioned the cloaked figure, her eyes enlarged with fear and she ran away from me, screaming down the hallway. Her behavior startled and baffled me. I began to follow her and found the corridor suddenly empty. All bodies there a second ago disappeared into thin air. It was as if twelve hours passed in one second because it was also dark now. Without knowing how or why, I realized I was being trapped. My stomach dropped, and I felt my breath become shallow. Sudden fear shot through my body. I spun around to see where he was. I knew he was here. I could feel him. I twisted in a frantic circle, dizzily searching for my attacker. Then I found him. The dark cloaked man stood at the far end of the hallway, menace and malice rolling off him. I couldn't see his face or his eyes, but I knew he was looking right at me. I ran this time, not wanting to make the same mistake as before. I dashed down the hall and through the deserted student lobby. I slammed my hands into the double doors and darted up the stairs to the science lab. I didn't have to look back to know he was chasing me. I could feel him. He was danger and fear, wrapped together. I raced through the lab, swiping at bubbling beakers with wicked looking concoctions, hoping the spilled chemicals would burn him, or at least slow his pace. I climbed the next set of stairs that led to the rooftop garden and astronomy lab. The metal doors slammed shut behind me and then immediately opened again for the reaper to come through. At the edge of the roof, I turned to my assailant, heart pounding in my throat. He strode toward me with purpose, black cloak dancing in midnight wind. I glanced over my shoulder at the two-story fall and panicked. Should I jump? Could I jump? Did I have a choice? How bad would it hurt? Would it be worse than whatever the thing had in store for me? My body exploded with terror as the killer lunged forward and grabbed me.

I gasped and shot up to a sitting position in my bed. My hair was sweaty and matted to the back of my neck for the second time in less than a week. My nightshirt was twisted around my stomach, and my pulse was pounding in my chest and temples. I laid back down, trying to breathe and calm myself. Several minutes later, I still felt fear from the nightmare and had to keep reminding myself that it wasn't real. It was just a dream. After a while, I got out of bed and threw my hair up on top of my head. I forced my feet to walk down stairs and get some water. The house was quiet and sound, the clock on the wall said it was three-thirty in the morning. All signs of the party were gone except the piles of gifts Rose had yet to open. The old hardwood floors were cool beneath my feet as I made my way into the kitchen and retrieved a bottle of water. It was refreshing and somehow made me feel better, more relaxed. I drank half the bottle and replaced it in the refrigerator. I gave a long sigh aloud, rubbed my weary eyes, and decided to go back to bed. When I was halfway up the antique stairwell, a board creaked, sending a little zap of fear racing through my veins. I knew I was on edge and overreacting so I stopped, closed my eyes and took a deep breath. There are no such things as monsters. Then I forced my shaky legs to climb once more. Four more steps and I felt hot air on the back of my neck. Chills raced down my spine. I took off in a sprint up the stairs, feeling a malevolent presence behind me. I tore into my room, slamming the door behind me and leaped onto my bed. I turned to see what was chasing me and found that there was nothing in my room but me. I let out a breath I hadnt realized I was holding. What the hell is wrong with me? I sighed and then rolled my eyes. I was acting like a child. My rational mind reminded me that it was just my imagination. I had a bad dream and was still spooked. That was all. I didn't fall back asleep that night.

Chapter 7
Monday morning I came to school with a plan. I spent the rest of the weekend rehashing the episode with Jason on the battery, and contemplating what I should do. I still couldn't wrap my head around his sudden change of behavior, not to mention why in the world he would leave me alone with a creepy serial killer. I like to assume that people arent inherently shallow, so I gave him the benefit of the doubt. The only explanation I could consider was that he never saw the cloaked man because if I entertained the thought that he did, then it meant he was a terrible person, and I just didnt get that vibe from him. However, he did abruptly leave after our kiss as if he couldnt stick around long enough to properly say goodnight, so the only plan I had was to ignore him. Childish, I know, but I didn't want to be the girl who doesn't take a hint. If he didn't want to talk to me, then I wouldn't talk to him. Plus, it would put the ball in his court while I waited as if nothing at all bothered me. I crossed the courtyard and found Bailey with a group of girls going on about how badass Eric's party was. I tried not to be Miss Obvious as I discretely looked around the courtyard to see if Jason was even there. I didnt see him or his brother. Odd, missing school already when they had just begun. "You so should have seen the way Eric was all over me!" Bailey whispered into my ear. "It was like Lacy and Alicia didn't even exist!" She bounced with excitement. "Nice!" I complimented. Alicia sneered at Bailey's back before Lacy grabbed her attention by yanking on her arm and pointing to the front gate. "Oh. My. God!" Alicia said. Her jaw dropped. Everyone in the group turned in unison to see what the big deal was. Oh my god didn't do him justice. The guy walking across the courtyard was pure masculinity, with dark wavy hair and chiseled features. His tall body walked with a sure arrogance and oozed power. He had tanned skin and a muscular build. His gait was more like a prowl, and his eyes scanned the curious crowd with a lethal, threatening edge. He was like a wild lion, and the gazelles gave him a wide berth. He looked more likely to be in his twenties than a teenager, but he was wearing the same Legare Prep uniform all the guys wore. The slacks and polo looked odd on him, like someone dressed the king of the jungle in an Onesie. He was exotic. Not foreign per se, but definitely not from around here, or anywhere I have been. He was also dangerous, and he wasnt trying to pretend otherwise. I should have been afraid of him, and on some primal level I was, though at the same time I was absolutely and unequivocally attracted to him. I always thought I was into the good guys. Apparently not. I watched alongside every other girl (and even some guys) in pure astonishment at what had just walked into our school. I heard someone say, "This year just got a lot better." Legare Prep has had its fair share of hot guys, but it has surely never seen anything like this. Feeling oddly entranced, I forced myself to look away. I saw several mouths still open while Lacy and Alicia huddled in a whispering dyad. The bell rang just then, and I grabbed my bag, trying to shake the effect the new guy had on me. As I passed the scheming duo, Lacy called, "Dibs!" With Alicia in tow, she walked by the rest of us, nose high in the air, and sure of her next kill. Several girls slumped their shoulders as Lacy marked her territory. I had a feeling the new guy wasnt the kind to be marked. Even so, I slumped inside a little too. I entered my first period class and took my seat still somewhat in a daze. Mr. Brody called role in his typical bored, monotone voice. I casually raised my hand when he got to my name. It wasn't until he got to the end of the role that my attention was once again captured. He introduced a new student. As if on cue, the god-like new guy strolled into the room. And you must be Michael, Mr. Brody arched a brow, the most expression anyone has gotten out of him all year. He gave Mr. Brody a quick nod, and then his eyes fell directly onto me. I immediately blushed. He passed the podium and claimed the seat right next to me. I found myself captivated by his every move, especially the way his body prowled through the class, sure and confident, if not a bit annoyed. He took his seat and continued to look at me. He exuded some sort of electric current that had my skin tingling and my mind buzzing. Up close, I saw that he had deep, dark eyes, which seemed to swallow everything around them, like a black hole. I had the notion that if I could just go a little deeper, take a dip in the bottomless depths of them, I could see "Class, meet Michael. Michael, meet the class," Mr. Brody lazily waved his hand across the room. Michael then looked away from me and nodded halfheartedly to the class. I heard several giggles and one outright gasp. Michael did not seem at all bothered with the energy field of estrogen surrounding him. He appeased the audience with a slight turn of his mouth, flashing a half dimpled grin. I looked away. It was too much. I was captivated by his presence, unnaturally focused on his every move. This must be what stalkers felt like, I mused. I refused to be a stalker, nor did I want to be one of those desperate girls falling at his feet.

I finished history class entirely consumed by his presence next to me, and unable to concentrate on the lesson. After packing my bag, I had to squeeze my way through the hallway crowd, all trying to peer into the door to get a glimpse of Michael. I just shook my head at the shameless stares and comments I heard. One girl even asked if she had anything in her teeth as she plumped her push up bra and pulled down at her uniform. Calculus and Physics were another two hours of sitting in the same class with Michael. I couldn't tell you what we learned in those classes. I tried to keep up the don't stare routine in those lectures. It was my coping mechanism. But in truth, I was tripping over my feet around him. At least I was trying not to be so obvious about it. I was sure he wouldn't be in four classes in a row, so when I walked into my Literature class, I was surprised to see him again. I found my seat and saw that he was sitting diagonally in front of me. When I sat down, I could feel his eyes on me again. I feigned interest in the cover of my notebook for as long as I could. I hesitated before looking up, trying to compose myself, and hoping my face wouldnt flush. I didn't want to make a fool out of myself by acting all giddy, which was exactly how I felt every time I looked at him. I took a deep, quiet breath and then looked up. Those endless, dark eyes bore into mine. I could feel some kind of pull to him from somewhere deep inside of me. An unexpected wave of emotions swept over me. I had never had such a strong reaction to anyone. I was surprised, excited, and a little scared. I wanted to get closer, to get completely lost in the abyss. I thought to myself, this must be what happens right before a girl throws herself at a guy. I felt an urge to run to him, wrap my arms around him and never let go. But I didn't want to give the entire class a show, so I pulled away reluctantly, and with great effort. What in the hell is wrong with me? Right then, Lacy dropped her bag at my feet rather loudly and sat in the seat in front of me, which was not her usual spot, but it was right across from Michael. "Hello!" she chirped at him. He nodded in her direction, a gesture that implied neither interest or not. "I'm Lacy," she flipped her long blonde hair and held out her delicate hand for him to take. He stared at it for a moment before he smiled and shook her hand. "You must be Michael?" she guessed. He nodded again. I was listening to their conversation, eager to hear him speak. So far, he had made it through the day without saying a single word from what I had heard. "Well, as president of the student body, I offer my services to show you around the school." She batted her eyes and gave him a flirtatious smile that implied she would like to show him a lot more than just the school. Suddenly hearing him speak was no longer appealing, not if it meant I had to witness what was sure to come - his capture in the raven's claws. Every guy Lacy decided to go after instantly fell under her spell. Bailey liked to call her the Black Widow, insisting she lured guys into her web, then ate them alive. I had to admit, it was a fairly accurate description. So I was surprised when Michael said, "I can find my own way around." There was nothing meaningful in the way he said it, he just simply turned her down. But I could feel the students surrounding us, holding their breath and stiff as boards. I had never seen Lacy turned down and doubted she ever had been. The tension in the air confirmed that suspicion. Confusion and shock crossed her face for a brief second before she masked them with a friendly smile. "Well, if you change your mind..." she laughed and turned to face the teacher as if nothing had happened. Bailey shot me an oh my god look from across the room. I just shrugged and pondered the new guy as a mystery. At lunch, as I expected, Michael was surrounded by girls bombarding him with millions of questions that I couldn't hear the answers to. I sat near Eric and a couple of guys on the other side of the dining hall. I felt bad for Michael. I knew what it was like to come to a new school, and this one could be overwhelming. I couldn't imagine what it would be like to have this level of attention though. He probably felt like he was drowning. "What, you aren't drooling over the new guy?" Eric said bitterly. His sandy blond head, crispy with gel, hung low today. He was ordinarily the most popular guy in school. I just shrugged, "I don't drool over anyone." That earned a slight grin from him. Bailey came to sit next to me after tearing herself away from the crowd. She could never resist anything even remotely exciting. She parked herself in the chair and planted a kiss on Erics cheek. They entered into a conversation about the next party he was going to have, which seemed to lift his spirits. I found myself glancing over to Michaels table. I stopped breathing. He was staring openly at me. He had to look past at least ten girls, to maintain his focus on me. It was unfathomable! Why would he be interested in me when every girl in our class, strike that, our entire school, was up for grabs. Lacy followed his gaze and then pursed her lips. I looked away from both of them, trying to diffuse the potential war that would be inevitable if I stepped in her way. The next thing I heard was a loud thud and several gasps. I twisted back around to see Lacy on the floor holding her ankle, and her books scattered across the hardwood floor. As everyone frenzied around her, she looked directly at Michael and asked, "Can someone please help me to the nurse?" She put on her perfected puppy-dog face no one could resist.

Everyone looked at Michael expectantly. There was a twitch in his jaw so slight that I may have imagined it. Then he stood up and scooped her off the floor. She dramatically threw her arms around his neck saying, "Thank you so much!" As he carried her out of the dining hall, I saw her lay her head on his shoulder. I cringed inside. My last class for the day was fine arts, my favorite. There was something about having a brush in my hand and creating something on canvas that made all my worries disappear. It was the painkiller that got me through my parents deaths. Mrs. Wood gave her usual pre-class lecture, which was more of an inspirational speech. Then she directed us to continue working on our landscape paintings. Just as I cleared a spot for my work, a tall, dark, and lethally sexy guy walked into the room. It was Michael, again. He was in all my classes. Really, what were the odds? She exchanged a few words with him and then brought him to my table. There were only three of us at the four-person table, conveniently the only table with an open seat. It would seem the universe was trying to shove him in my face. The two other guys who shared my table only really spoke to each other, and Im almost positive they batted for the other team. Michael smiled when she introduced us. He inclined his head, "Lily." I loved the way he said my name, it rolled off his tongue like the juices from an exotic fruit, in a deep, almost raspy voice. "Nice to meet you," I barely spoke, blushing. In a singsong voice, Mrs. Wood asked, "Lily, do you mind explaining to Michael what we are doing and showing him where all the supplies are?" Mrs. Wood was a strange, very spacey lady with wild, frizzy, salt and pepper hair. "Sure," I said, clearing my throat. She walked away and left us alone. Michael stood in front of me, patiently waiting for directions I supposed. "Um..." I looked around trying to think of what to show him first and trying not to make a fool of myself. "Well, we have been working on our landscape paintings using acrylics." Michael just stared at me, with an expression that was hard to identify. He gave away nothing on his face but passive attention, yet I swear I saw something of humor in his eyes. What could possibly be funny? Oh yeah, my stumbling for words around him. "You can choose anything, it just has to have a sky and a ground," I explained. I was getting nervous under the scrutiny of his gaze. He had yet to say a single word since my name, though it felt like we were having a conversation with our eyes. He stared deep into mine as if he was trying to say something. Or maybe I was reading way too far into things. I glanced away, unable to bear the weight of his stare without snapping and doing something that would surely embarrassed me, like jumping in his arms. I waved a hand at my painting to get him to look at something other than me. "We've been working on layering. Ive spent so much time on my clouds, I have nothing on my ground, as you can see," I said with a breathless laugh. Oxygen seemed to be in short supply when he was near. I got a grin out of him then. It was slight, but it was there. He was so beautiful with tanned skin and dimples, yet he was also insanely masculine, a combination that I would have thought impossible until I met him. I felt on the verge of a train wreck so I coached myself internally to just keep things moving. I tried to put one foot in front of the other and showed him where the materials were. "Over here are the supplies," I said as I stalked toward the back wall. He followed in silence. "Here are the brushes...acrylics...knives...palette..." I pointed as I went along. "And here are the easels. We have to use the table top ones because we don't have much room in here." That little tidbit of information was completely useless. Why did I say that? He just stood there in silence, watching me and listening to my ramble. I wanted to hear him speak again so I asked him a question. "Have you painted much?" I waited anxiously to hear that attractive voice. He never took his eyes from mine as he answered, "Here and there." I wanted more. "So, where are you from?" I pried. I thought I saw amusement in his eyes again as he said, "I move around a lot." So that was it, I thought, he was going to play this game with everyone. Either not say anything at all or give short, vague answers. I could take a hint. If someone doesn't want to talk to me, then I don't want to talk to him. I finalized my tour with, "Okay, well let me know if you need to find anything else." I walked away from him, snagging my apron and painting supplies.

I tried to paint something on my ground that day, but I couldn't. It was like I had a complete mental block and couldn't think of what to paint. That had never happened to me before. It seemed the simple interaction with the new guy had me absolutely disheveled. What was it about him that did this to me? Besides his incredible hotness and his exotic vibe, he was mysterious. I had no idea that was such a turn on for me. I didn't look across the table at him the rest of the class, which was a nearly impossible feat because I could feel his eyes on me frequently. When there were five minutes left in class, Mrs. Wood called for everyone to clean their spaces. As students moved around the room, I noticed several people crowding around Michael's painting. Mrs. Wood floated over to see what was so interesting. When she laid eyes on his painting, she gave a little pant and covered her mouth in shock. Curiosity overrode my pride, and I walked around the table to see for myself. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. On his canvas, was a completed painting of a garden with wildly colored flowers that seemed to come alive with a breeze. The shading and light of his colors cast the most realistic looking painting I had ever seen. It was hypnotic. How could anyone create that in one class session? I stared at his painting with amazement. He would put the world's greatest artists to shame. I heard several people complimenting him, but I couldnt tell you who, because I was so enthralled with the picture. It resonated something familiar in my memory, though I knew no place like that has ever been a part of this world. The colors were so lively, so very much like the dream I had just the other night. The colors were brilliant. I stole a peek at his palette to see how he mixed them. I found neat little circles that were oddly clean. They looked like they were freshly squeezed from their tubes. There was no way a brush had run through any of them. Thats when I noticed his brushes. Not one of them had paint on them. My eyebrows furrowed. I looked at Michael automatically, trying to figure out what was going on. When he met my confused gape, his expression changed at once. It went from the passive face he had been wearing all day to an almost afraid look. Almost. I had the strange impression he could tell exactly what I was thinking. But that couldnt be possible. Then he looked down at his palette. I followed his gaze. What I saw made my stomach flip. The clean circles of paint had become messy, and the brushes had paint on them. I stared at them for a minute, trying to figure out what just happened. Was I seeing things? No. I know I saw the paint and brushes completely different just a moment ago. But no one else seemed to notice anything wrong, so maybe I was mistaken. What in the hell is going on with me? I started to feel a little uncomfortable, stepping away, as Michael kept staring at me, more and more seriously. There was something like worry in his eyes, or was it curiosity? He was difficult to read. The bell rang and Mrs. Wood jumped. "Clean up, clean up, quickly," she called, completely distracted. I tore myself away from the painting and walked over to the sink area to clean my brushes and palette, in a complete daze. Trying to piece together and make sense of what I just saw, I went over the details in my head several times. It seemed the only explanation of what I saw was that I didn't actually see what I thought, which was very frustrating. I left the class without another glace at Michael and swiftly walked to my locker. I sorted through what books I needed to take home that night and stuffed them in my bag. I shut the locker door and jumped. "Whoa, didn't mean to scare you!" Jason was leaning against the locker next to mine, with creepy Derrick loitering a few feet away, staring at me of course. I still had my hand on my heart when I sighed and closed my eyes. I really needed to get a grip, but it wasnt easy calming my nerves when Derrick looked at me with the dark indifference of either making me his pet or creating a dress out of my skin. I shook my head of all thoughts and just smiled, "Its okay." "Are you okay? You look like you've seen a ghost." "I'm fine, thanks." I cut him off with more attitude than I intended. He grinned at me and then stepped a little closer. He took my hands in his and said, "Listen, I'm sorry about leaving like that Saturday night...I forgot about something I had to do for my parents, and they would have killed me if I didn't do it." Another evasive response. I forgot about something I had to do. Was I going to get a straight response from any guy at this school? I could feel myself becoming irate. He leaned close to my face and gave me an adorably apologetic face, "You forgive me?" At that moment, he glanced behind me and grinned. I figured he was likely getting props from his friends. "I don't know..." I answered honestly, trying to ignore Derricks presence. I had too much on my mind. I couldnt even remember why exactly I was mad at him. He brought both of my hands up to his face and planted a kiss on each, "Can I make it up to you tonight?" That time I caught him glancing behind me in the same way, yet with a more devious expression. I studied his face for a second and thought there

was definitely something of a challenge there. I spun around and sawMichael. He looked terrifying. If looks could kill, Jason would be dead where he stood. All six foot, four inches of Michaels body was steaming with testosterone, aggression noticeably rolling off him in threatening waves. The sexiest guy I had ever seen was now also the scariest. An overwhelming urge to run, had me immediately backing away from Jason. I jerked my hands back. "I have to go." I walked away from the pissing match, heading straight for my car. I didn't know what had just happened, but it was clear to me that something was going on between Michael and Jason, and I wanted no part in it.

Chapter 8
When I came home, the house was empty and a note from Rose was on the kitchen table. I opened the little pink envelope and pulled out a delicate sheet of pressed flower paper. Lily Darling, I had a wonderful birthday party thanks to all your hard work! Gail told me! I love your gift too! I hung it in the foyer where I can see it every day. What a coincidence that you would buy me a painting of Paris when that is where I am headed now! Joe is taking me there for two weeks! You guys didn't plan this together did you? Regardless, I love you and hope you don't get too lonely without me. There is plenty to eat and plenty on your card, so have fun dear! Love you! Rose I couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. She was a woman who loved to be pampered and from the sound of it, her new boyfriend was doing just that. I folded the note closed and strolled into the foyer. Rose had hung the painting in the perfect spot. The afternoon sun from the windows flanking the front door spilled a soft blanket of light onto the dark city, illuminating the street lamps in the painting. Grabbing my book bag, I headed upstairs. There wasn't a soul in the giant house. I was utterly alone. Ginger was probably out grocery shopping, and the cleaning crew must have finished for the day. When I first moved in with Rose, all the foot traffic was strange. I wasnt used to people constantly in and out of my home. Then, I craved time alone. I wanted the privacy I was used to having when my parents were alive. Now that I was used to having people around, it felt incredibly lonely when the vast old house was empty. I spent the rest of the afternoon curled up in my favorite, off white Adirondack chair on the porch right outside my third story bedroom. Sipping sweet tea and listening to the waves crash against the battery wall, I wrote in my journal. I had never kept one until last year. After my parents died, Rose got me one as a kind of therapy. She thought it would help me by giving me a place to confide. It worked most of the time. I flipped through the pages of endless writings about my parents and that awful night. I tried not to relive the fire that destroyed everything that was once my life each time I opened the journal. It was filled with writings about the loss. I dreamed of that night at least once per week. I would frequently wake up in tears and pour my heart and soul into the little, paisley notebook. Today I added a different entry. My thoughts were still consumed with the strange behavior of Michael. Who was he? Why does he stare at me but not say anything? Why does he hate Jason? How do they know each other? All these questions remained unanswered no matter how hard I tried to make sense of them. The journal entry ended up being a series of questions and vague, random speculations. It wasnt working. The more I thought about him, the more I wanted answers. Since he didnt seem to speak, my chance at answers was slim. I closed the journal with a frustrated sigh. Why was I obsessing over him? Later that night, just before I hopped in the shower, my phone rang. I cringed at the sound of the ring tone she insisted be hers. Each and every time I received a call from my best friend, which was frequently, I had to endure a terrible rendition of The All-American Rejects Dirty Little Secret, which was sung drunk karaoke style by me and Bailey several months back. She loved it, but of course she would, she sounded like an American Idol contestant. I did too, only I was the one that made it on television for the laugh factor. Before I could say hello, I heard laughing and slurring. Bailey was hard to understand, but I managed to make out so freaking awesome and coming over. She was a notorious partier, and it was nothing new to hear her drunk, but it did surprise me to hear her that way on a Monday night. I made out something else about will so get in trouble. I told her she could stay the night, knowing her father would love to have a reason to tell her she was a disappointment, which was exactly what he would do if she went home in that condition. Twenty minutes later, the doorbell chimed, followed by several sporadic knocks. It sounded like a party outside. I could hear Baileys giggles and at least one male tone. When I opened the door, Bailey stood, half-propped up by Eric, who was having difficulties standing himself. They were a mess. I laughed and moved to the side to let them in. Then I saw that Jason was with them. "Hey there," he greeted me with a devilish grin. "Hi" I hadnt expected to see him. "So you never answered me earlier, can I make it up to you or not?" he asked through a wickedly crooked smirk. "I..." I recalled what he asked earlier and the episode with Michael. I wasnt in the mood to entertain him, but couldnt let Eric in and not him. Come in, I allowed. At least he wasnt with his darker half. Bailey and Eric had fallen sloppily on the couch, limbs intertwined and Bailey sitting partially in his lap. I smiled at her, "Had much to drink?" I teased. She laughed and then hiccupped. She covered her mouth in embarrassment as Eric started planting light kisses along her neckline. "Rose isn't home so feel free to stay," I assured her. "Yeah, Paris right? How long will she be gone?" Jason asked. I turned on him, surprised and a little suspicious, "How did you know?"

Eric blurted out, "Ah, come on Lily, you know everyone knows everyones shit around here." "Yeah, really," Bailey giggled as she nuzzled into his neck. It was true, I really should not have been that shocked, but there was something about Jason that put me on edge. Bailey and Eric had successfully created a human pretzel on the sofa. I could no longer tell where one ended and the other began. At the sound of wet, smacking kisses, I asked, "Why don't you guys get a room?" "Thats just what I was thinking," Eric said as he nibbled her ear. It was a rhetorical question, I didnt actually mean for them to leave me alone with Jason. That was the last thing I wanted, but before I could say otherwise, Eric and Bailey were climbing the stairs enthusiastically. "Stay out of my room!" I called. "Your room, huh?" Jason asked, inching closer to me. Reverting back to elementary tactics, I pretended I didnt hear the question. I had no intention of doing anything with Jason in my room. I sat awkwardly on the couch next to him, crossing my legs and wrapping my arms around myself. I was attempting to give major back off body language. He didn't take the hint. The next thing I knew, he was making himself comfortable on the couch, sliding his arm over my shoulders. I immediately sat up. "Can I get you anything to drink?" I asked trying to put some space between us. "Sure," he grinned. I jumped at the chance to leave the room. Pacing back and forth in the kitchen, I ran my fingers through my hair, trying to think of a way to halt his advances. I peeked around the corner and found him patiently awaiting my return, with a satisfied appearance. I rolled my eyes. Now what? I went to the sink and leaned on the counter, as if the characteristic position would give me guidance. I didn't want to drink with him tonight; however, I knew that I could ask him questions about today's incident with Michael. If I played my cards right, I could fend him off and still get some answers about Michael. In the end, my burning desire for any information about Michael won. I grabbed a couple goblets and began pouring some sort of wine I found in the fridge. I didnt care what it was, I had no intention of drinking it. As I started pouring the second glass, a movement out of the kitchen window caught my eye. A quick glance up, had me sucking in a sharp breath. As I registered what was standing only feet from the window, panic overcame me. It was the cloaked serial killer, staring right at me, from my backyard. Dark cloth hid his face and body, though I swear I could feel him glaring at me, anger and violence wafting from the folds of his jacket. In my shock, the glass slipped from my hand and shattered, creating an eerie cascade of shards. Jason appeared in the kitchen, eyes wide, "Are you okay?" "I just saw..." I turned, breathless, to the window and pointed, but there was nothing there. My heart felt like it was about to pound out of my chest. My hand shook in mid air, and I knew my face was ashen. Jason came over and looked out the window. "You saw what?" "The cloaked guy," I mumbled, immediately regretting the disclosure. "What cloaked guy?" he asked still peering out the window. "There's nothing there," he said as he laughed it off. I knew it was true. Looking at the window, there was nothing out of the ordinary, especially not some creepy cloaked psycho. My thoughts started reeling, "Jason, do you remember seeing the cloaked guy on the battery Saturday night?" "What?" he sounded truly perplexed. "You know, the guy who was standing there watching us?" I prompted. "I didn't see anyone Lily. It was just us." His expression was genuine; he had no idea what I was talking about. Great, I really am crazy! I tried to recall that night, and I realized that I hadnt actually seen the guy until Jason walked off. But he had to have seen him, right? The thing didn't just appear out of nowhere. Jason came over to me, glass crushing under his feet, and grabbed both of my shoulders, "Are you sure youre alright?" He was smirking. He thought it was funny that I was so freaked out, and apparently seeing things that werent there. "I'm fine," I said testily, pushing out of his arms. I grabbed the broom and started to sweep. After I cleaned up, Jason brought over two glasses of wine, and handed me one. I took a sip, my eyes sliding over the window. There was still nothing there. I titled the glass and downed the entire thing. Then I sighed. Maybe I am seeing things. "Rough night?" Jason asked mockingly. I cut my eyes at him, and then said, "I'm going to bed." I put my glass in the sink and made my way to the door to show him out. "Whoa, whoa, wait a second," he changed his attitude, all laughter ceased. "I'm really tired, and we have school in the morning," I explained. He looked toward the door and then said, "Lily, I can't go home like this, my parents will kill me!"

"Go home like what?" He didnt appear to be very drunk. "They will know I've been drinking," he insisted. Dropping his face closer to mine and asked, "Can I please stay here tonight?" from under long eyelashes. I hesitated. I didn't want to give him the wrong idea by saying yes, but I also didn't want him to get into trouble. I glanced outside the window by the door and shuttered at the thought of sending him out there with the serial killer, in case he wasnt a figment of my imagination. "Okay, you can stay, I conceded, But I am going to bed." A smile stretched across his face. I ignored him and began to walk upstairs. He followed. I got to the second floor and heard Bailey laughing from outside one of the guest bedrooms. I shook my head and continued to the next room. I opened the door and said, "You can stay in here." I refused to meet his eye and engage him further. I turned and walked back toward the stairs and up to my third floor room. I didnt notice he had followed me until I tried to shut my bedroom door and felt a hand in the way. "What are you doing?" I accused, becoming increasingly irritated. "What? I thought you could use some company?" he shrugged, feigning innocence. "No! Go back to your room Jason," I pushed him out and closed my door. Arms crossed, I stood there waiting, daring him to try coming inside again. I heard a dull thud of what sounded like his forehead on the door, "If I get scared can I sleep with you?" he whined. I opened my mouth to retort but thought better of it. Instead, I locked the old antique door handle, which slid with a loud, concluding sound. I could hear him chuckle on the other side of the door. "If you change your mind, you know where to find me," he added. The audacity of this guy! I waited a minute until I heard nothing more. When I decided he had finally left, I changed into my pajamas and tried to fall asleep.

I was deep in a dream about wild gardens and impossible paintings when I was rudely awaked. My eyes yanked open as fear assaulted me, racing through my body. I was laying in my bed, held down by something I could not see. An invisible assailant held my body in a death grip. I panicked. Thrashing around in my sheets, I tried to break free from whatever had me, without success. With each effort, I felt razor sharp blades cutting into my skin where the attacker held me. Or was it attackers? There were at least eight hands, holding me down. I tried to scream but something was over my mouth. Suddenly, the French doors to my third floor porch flew open, curtains flapping wildly in the wind, a low guttural growl came from the balcony. Suddenly, I was released. I watched several dark, shadowy creatures scurrying out of my bedroom and onto the porch. Painful howls and unearthly screeches speared my ears. Then a series of sickening tears and gurgling sounds followed. I jumped out of my bed, and ran to the corner of the room. Sinking to the floor, I assumed the fetal position, hoping I would go unnoticed by the monsters. My heart pounded in my ears and hot tears streaked my cheeks. I could hear and feel the feral wind whipping through my room. I clamped my eyes shut and tried to pretend none of it was real. It had to be just a dream. I waited for an eternity it seemed to wake up. I never did. Finally, I heard the French doors close, the wind immediately ceased. There was nothing but a shroud of eerie quietness surrounding me. I was more afraid than I had ever been in my entire life. It took me a moment before I opened my eyes. When I did, I found my room was completely normal, no doors open, no dark figures, not a single picture frame turned over. My razor sliced arms had no marks or pain. The only reminder of the terrifying event was the moon shining through the window where the curtains had opened. I cautiously got up and walked over to the window on shaky legs. I saw exactly what I was afraid I would see, the cloaked man. Only this time, he was walking away. I watched him retreat until I couldn't see him anymore. With a still pounding heart, I climbed back into bed, knowing it would be another sleepless sunrise.

Chapter 9
I was out of the shower and getting dressed before I normally even wake, a result of having not slept the night before. I had long since calmed down but felt like there was a dark cloud above my head, waiting to smite me with lightening or maybe even rain down more scary creatures of the night. On my way downstairs, I peeked into Bailey's room and found her with her mouth wide open, hair splayed across her face and limbs hanging off the bed. If it weren't for her snoring, I would have thought she was dead. I pulled the door closed quietly and chuckled to myself. It must have been a rough night for her too, though I doubted she would remember much. I wished I could say the same. I reluctantly peeked into the room I suggested Jason take. When I saw the bed made and no one there, I breathed a sigh of relief. I had no desire to see him today. In the kitchen, I ran into Ginger who was pulling fresh muffins out of the oven. "Good morning! You're up early," she observed. "Yeah, I couldn't really sleep last night." I poured myself a cup of coffee and brought it to my nose, inhaling the aroma, trying to perk up. I could feel a headache coming on from exhaustion. "Something bothering you?" I shrugged and sat down at the table. Taking extra time to stir my coffee, I contemplated how to breach the subject of last night with her. "Ginger?" I started. She looked over at me. "Has anything strange ever happened to you in this house?" She seemed surprised by my odd question, "Strange? Like how?" "Have you ever had anythingscary happen to you, likefeeling like you aren't alone here?" It was extremely vague, I knew, but I couldnt very well ask her if she had ever been attacked by monsters and stalked by the grim reaper. She smiled, "I often feel like I'm not alone here, but then again, I rarely am." She sat down across from me sipping her own coffee. She pierced me with a motherly, knowing look, "You know, Charleston is known for being haunted, and this is a really old house" She let the insinuation hang in the air before she held her hand up, "But I have never found this house to be scary," she added. I thought about that for a minute. Maybe the cloaked man was a ghost come to haunt me. But why? Last night's strange events replayed in my head, and I shivered involuntarily. "Are you okay honey?" Gingers eyebrows bunched with concern. "Yeah, yeah I'm fine. I think my imagination has gotten away from me recently," I lied. She smiled as if she understood. Ginger exuded a maternal warmth that reminded me of my own mother. I wondered if she would ever be a mom. She would be a great one, I thought. Bailey walked into the kitchen rubbing her eyes. Her hair was a messy nest of knots and her mascara was smeared. "Good morning sunshine!" I teased. She swatted her hand in my direction and went straight for the coffee pot. "Oh, I didn't know we had company," Ginger grabbed another plate from the cabinet, always happy to feed people. "It was a sort of last minute arrangement," I explained. Ginger caught my grin and smiled with a perceptive nod. It couldn't have been too long ago that she herself was a teenager. "Are we late for school?" Bailey asked in a croaking voice, still blurry eyed. "No, you have plenty of time to get a shower," I assured her. "Ah, thank god. I could already see the referral to Ms. Hippy if I showed up like this," she said before she turned up her cup. Ms. Hippy was the name she dubbed our counselor, Ms. Harris. I think Bailey may have held the record for referrals. I frequently listened to her complaints about how obnoxious the old woman was, and how she was a dirty hippy. Bailey swore she was always tanked on opiates and never bathed. Ginger placed muffins and fruit in front of us. I usually didnt eat this early, but technically, I had been up so long it was kind of like lunch for me. I pulled a warm blueberry muffin open, letting the steam escape before I took a savory bite. "This is awesome, thanks Ginger! You're the best." Ginger smiled in gratitude.

On the way to school that morning I decided to hit up Bailey to see if she experienced anything strange last night. "So, did anything happen to you last night?" I asked cautiously. "Hell yeah, you want details?" she asked knowing I would say no.

"I don't mean with Eric. Did anything strange happen last night?" "I don't follow." That confirmed it for me. If something even half as strange or scary happen to her she would know exactly what I was talking about. "Never mind." "Okay..." she gave me a worried look. "I think I just had a bad dream that seemed real, thats all." "I have those all the time, like, I wake up and I'm confused, and I think I'm still in the dream but I'm not," she chattered as she applied blush in the mirror. I would have loved to convince myself it was all a dream, there would be comfort in knowing nothing really goes bump in the night, but deep down I knew what I experienced was real. I shivered involuntarily. I was being haunted, and I had no idea why. Hell, I didnt even know what was haunting me. If only I could get a look under those black folds to glimpse what the grim reaper had in store for me. "Yeah, I'm sure thats all it was," I lied.

School started out normal that day, except Jason was absent. I guessed he had gotten in trouble after all. So much for trying to save his ass. I walked into good old Mr. Brodys class not at all looking forward to the boring lecture that was as sure to come as the sunrise. He was nothing if not consistent. The man wore the same tacky cardigan, with dull khakis and penny loafers every single day. The only article that changed was the color of the collared shirt beneath the disastrous argyle sweater straight from the seventies. Last night was another sleepless night, and the exhaustion was finally hitting me. All I wanted to do was go home, curl up in my comfortable bed, and take a year-long nap. I lazily slid into my seat, and started rifling through my backpack to find the essay due today. I pulled it out, happy to turn it in and never see the horrid thing again. Mr. Brody collected the mini novels and then sauntered to the board to write our daily agenda. A few dates and events let me know that we would be discussing some war of sorts a few hundred years back, Mr. Brodys specialty. Several giggles and a few whispers had me turning with curiosity to see what all the commotion was about. Of course, how could I forget? It was the super delicious new guy, Michael. He strode through the room with a presence that broadcasted that he owned the place. He wasnt brooding, but he exuded a confidence that radiated power and therefore dominance. It was a simple fact. And it was so hot. When I realized I was practically drooling over him, I gave myself a much needed mental slap and promptly looked toward Mr. Brody, who apparently was not at all effected by Michaels presence. Then again, I am pretty sure he doesnt often notice anything unless its talking or chewing gum. I began jotting down the events he wrote, hoping I appeared to be nothing more than a studious, eager learner, instead of the ogling, boy crazy person I truly was at that moment. Michael folded his large body into the seat next to mine. A darkly exotic fragrance tickled my nose. I forced myself to keep a passive, hopefully indifferent expression on my face. I mentally chanted to myself, dont look over at him, dont look, dont lookthen I looked. Busted. Damn it! He caught me. The second I looked over those black eyes locked onto mine. A jolt of energy sizzled through my chest. Waithe caught me looking at himbut then that would mean he was looking at me. Why did he always look at me? Those bottomless eyes bore into mine for several seconds more, hell maybe it was years. I could feel the heat of my cheeks reach what had to be an unattractive shade of maroon. Was I embarrassed? No, not really. He made me feelnervous, yes, but also special, beautiful, worthy My mind wondered how he could make me feel so much without doing or saying anything. I didnt even know him. Mr. Brodys unnecessarily loud throat clearing brought me back to the present. He was staring at me with arms crossed over his chest, a disappointed expression on his face. Great. I glanced around and found everyone else staring at me as well, most with knowing smirks on their faces. I take it you need the question repeated Miss Grace? he asked impatiently, and then added to Michael, Unless you can answer? Michael gave a nonchalant smile to Mr. Brody and said, The French Revolution, in a deep, somewhat arrogant tone. Mr. Brodys eyebrows cocked up, he had clearly assumed neither of us had heard the question. Then he produced a humph noise and said, At least one of you was paying attention. I expect more from you Ms. Grace, he chided. I hated disappointing people; it cut me like nothing else could. If there was a shade of red darker than maroon, my face was that color. Mr. Brody always liked to humiliate students, but generally speaking, I was in good standing with him. I bet that act of idiocy combined with the oh so physical display of embarrassment really impressed the new guy. I wanted to crawl under a rock. For the rest of the class, I didnt look toward Michael. Actually, I didnt look toward my left at all, employing extra cautious measures. I diligently took notes on what I assumed was the French Revolution. My mind wasnt really there, I was still dwelling on the obvious ogling the entire class

witnessed, but my hand was playing out the motions of the attentive student routine. As the classes went by that day, I felt like I was in a game of wills. I could feel the heat of Michaels eyes on me for most of the classes, and I tried to ignore the rush of excitement it caused me. I refused to look his way, though I could see him out of the corner of my eye. I didnt want to recreate the scene in first period, especially not while Lacy was watching. I did hear her speak to him once in her whispering, I want to take my clothes off for you, voice. I cringed inside. I hated the idea of him with her, though I had no claim of my own to him. Something about the two of them together made my blood boil with jealousy, a feeling that was foreign to me. I was always the girl who assumed no guy was worth warring over. What was wrong with me? Why on earth was I having these possessive thoughts about him? He wasnt mine. He wasnt anyones as far as I knew. Besides, a guy like that could get any girl he wanted. Why would I even entertain the idea that I would have some sort of stake? At lunch, I pushed my way through the gawking girls surrounding Michaels table and sat with Bailey and Eric. The new lovebirds were too interested in each other to notice I had sat down. Without anyone to distract me, my eyes began to wonder, naturally falling on Michael. He was suffocated by girls desperate to get the slightest reaction out of him. Apparently he wasnt just quiet around me, he didnt really say much to anyone. When our eyes met, I found myself once again locked into the inescapable depth of his. I was jarred back to reality when Jason slid into the seat beside mine, blocking my view. Hey pretty girl, he purred. His cute face was grinning at me and sitting far too close for friends. Not going to join the fun? he asked nodding toward Michael. No, I dont like to share, I quipped, successfully sounding completely uninterested. Impressive for someone who was a terrible liar. Ah, neither do I, he smiled. Jasons gaze was similar to Michaels, not in meaning or intention, but in the feeling it gave me. It was as if there was something stirring behind his eyes, something tempting, waiting to be discovered. But then I recalled Jasons behavior the prior night. I was supposed to be mad at him, well sort of. So, did you get in trouble last night? What time did you leave? Jason seemed caught off guard by my line of questioning. Oh, umI guess it was around 5:00 or so this morning. He didnt sound very sure of himself. A thought occurred to me then, if he was there that long, then he had to have been in the house when the crazy shadow monsters and grim reaper were there. Maybe he saw something. I opened my mouth to ask and then promptly closed it. What was I thinking? I would sound like a lunatic if I asked him that. It was one thing to ask Ginger or Bailey. I knew them, and they wouldnt laugh at me, or spread malicious rumors. As for Jason, I had no idea where he stood with me. If I told him about what happened, it was likely that the whole school would know I was a hallucinating freak. At some point during my mental tirade, Jason reached his hand to my face and caressed my cheekbone, Are you okay? You seem a little wired. I opened my mouth to deny it when I felt a sudden jolt of energy. I glanced in the direction of the source and caught Michaels glare. Well, glare was an understatement. He was looking at Jason with the same fury I saw yesterday. It appeared he was trying to tear him limb from limb with his eyes. My initial reaction was shock. Without a doubt, I was frightened of that look, yet I also harbored a curiosity that was eating at my very soul. I wondered what made him hate Jason, and how they knew each other? And I needed to know where I fit into their game. A theory formulated in my mind, and as any curious teenager would do, I tested it. I was tired of no answers. I closed my mouth and tried to quickly come up with a new direction to take with Jason. Instead of swearing nothing was wrong, I played the damsel in distress. I pouted a little and sighed, I just didnt sleep well last night. It was no academy award performance, but he took the bait. Oh, Im sorry, he put on a matching puppy dog face, I was up all last night too. I couldnt stop thinking about you, he teased. Please tell me it wasnt me who kept you awake? he asked with a hopeful grin. Instead of admitting that monsters were the real reason I was tired, I plastered on a mischievous, flirtatious smile, Wouldnt you like to know. Lily, you are driving me crazy, he swore as he grabbed my hands and wound them through his. You know all you have to say is the word and Im all yours, he winked. He was a wickedly talented flirt who I was sure won over many a girls heart but it wasnt him I was looking for a reaction from. I laughed aloud and chided him, You are so full of yourself! swatting at his chest. He cupped my face between his hands and asked desperately, Can I kiss you again? I was taken aback by his sudden intensity. Now? I asked stupidly. No time like the present, he said as he inched closer. He moved very slowly, presumably waiting for me to protest. Right before he reached my lips, I glanced over his shoulder to Michael. The look on his face was of pure malicious intent, and it was targeted directly at the back of Jasons head. Then, he shifted his eyes to mine. There wasnt the same spear of fury as he looked at me, but it certainly wasnt all roses. Those dark eyes threw daggers at Jason, yet they seemed to send accusing and warning threats toward me. What have I done, I thought, a fleeting panic dragging its nails across my spine? I gasped and pulled away from Jason before his lips found mine. He followed my gaze and gave a little laugh, I see weve pissed off your boyfriend.

Hes not my boyfriend! I protested, still feeling antsy. And I want to know whats going on. I could tell he tried to look confused, but there was a little guilt in his expression, possibly even humor. That just pissed me off. I dont follow. How do you know him? I demanded. I dont know him, he said with complete innocence. I glanced back at Michael who was still visibly seething. I suddenly got the urge to get as far away from Jason as I could, as if he were a bomb about to explode. I grabbed my backpack and headed out of the dining hall without another thought. I didnt say a single word more to Jason or even say goodbye to Bailey. I felt compelled to keep walking until I was completely out of Jasons presence. It was like I was a robot, going through the motions until I reached my locker, and opened it with unnecessary force. I stared into the open shelf completely dumbfounded. I didnt understand what had just happened, and for some reason, I couldnt go back into the dining hall even if I wanted to, not while Jason was there. Several moments later, the bell rang, stirring me out of my haze. I felt a wave of release from my body. I walked into Art class, gathered my supplies and took my seat. Michael was already sitting next to me, watching me intently. Im not entirely sure how I knew that because I never made eye contact with him. I couldnt, fear still strummed through me. But I could feel his eyes, penetrating my very soul. I felt him beckoning me, inviting me to dive into the depths of his obsidian abyss. It was everything I could do not to heed the calling. I wanted to see those beautiful, impossibly deep eyes, but I was afraid. Not of him, but of the mood he was in so recently. But I no longer felt any animosity rolling off him Damn it! I looked. You are so weak! I chastised myself. What I found was unexpected. He was frustrated, nervous, and maybe even a little afraid too. Total confusion swept me as I recalled his seething fury just minutes ago. However, as I tumbled into his murky gaze, I no longer felt afraid. I felt exhilarated. I felt beautiful. I felt safe. A rousing in his eyes dared me to come closer yet warned me to stay away. An impossible dichotomy. He was dangling forbidden fruit before my eyes, tempting me to take a bite, yet warning me of the consequences. Oh, how I wanted to bite. Wow, too much. Shaking my head, I turned to face my painting. I could only imagine the stupid look on my face while I stared at him. Hell, I was probably opening my mouth for a taste of him, watering for the prime. Get yourself together! I forced myself to focus on my painting that looked like paint-by-numbers compared to his masterpiece. For the next hour, I silently painted, trying to ignore the goose bumps his constant stares swept across my body. Several times, I heard him make sounds of frustration. I didnt look. At one point, he let out a deep breath and cracked his knuckles. Something was bothering him, and I was dying to know what but refused to ask. Lily? he said at last, not at all sounding sure of himself. The break in silence caught me off guard. I allowed myself to face him then. How could I deny such a beautiful voice? Especially when he said my name with such a sweet tenor. Lily will he broke off and looked down. He then took another deep breath and met my eyes, warily. Then I saw a powerful resolution settle on his features. Lily, will you have dinner with me tonight? What? I blurted out brilliantly. That was the last thing I expected him to say. Why? Why not? he countered. Why not? That was a good question. I could give several reasons why not, first and foremost being the mad man look he donned recently. But, I could also think of reasons why I should, most having to do with his hotness. My resolve rested on none of the above. Instead, I decided I had to know him. I had to know who he was and what he was hiding. He was intriguing, and apparently I couldnt resist the fruit. After leaving him sweating for a few, I replied, Pick me up at seven? He smiled and exhaled at the same time, relief lifted his shoulders as they noticeably relaxed. I couldnt help my smile in return.

Chapter 10
I tore through my room looking for an outfit for dinner. I was so worked up about going out with Michael that I couldnt make a single decision. I didnt know how to wear my hair, if I should wear a dress, or how I should do my makeup. I was completely coming apart at the seams over a guy I didnt know the first thing about. Well, thats not entirely true. I knew he made an amazing painting without getting his brushes wet, then somehow did a magic trick to hide that. He also hated Jason and found something interesting in me. The little I knew about him made me eager for answers, which I fully intended to pry out of him at dinner. By six-fifty I settled for a cute, light blue summer dress and strappy shoes. I decided to let my hair fall in locks around my shoulders, and was smudging some eyeliner on when I heard the doorbell ring. I gave myself a once over and then bounced down the stairs, entirely too eager to see him. A thought hit me right as I was opening the door. I never told him where I lived. He was standing there in an expensive black suit sans the tie. His dark hair fell over his ears, framing his even darker eyes. That chiseled face smiled as he saw me. He was incredibly delicious, not like any guy I had ever come across. I couldnt believe he was standing on my porch. He inclined his head, Lily. I smiled, Michael, a little breathless. Shall we? he asked. I locked the front door, and then followed him to an ultra sleek, black Porsche. He opened the passenger door and stood there as I slid into the soft leather seat, the smell of leather and foreign spices tickled my senses. He closed the door behind me like a gentleman. Bonus points for manners. The engine roared to life as I clasped my seat belt. I see you found my house, I observed. He gave me a side look and smirked. I waited to see if he would elaborate on how he found it. He didnt. Did you ask Jason? I guessed. His face hardened. A muscle worked in his jaw. Okay, so he hates Jason, but why? He was tense at the mention of the name. I waited nervously for him to say something. Several moments passed before the air thinned. You should stay away from him. Hes bad news, Michael said between clenched teeth. What do you mean bad news? I pried. I felt like I was instigating a lion. Michael took a second, clearly trying to word his response just so. Hes not the good guy he is pretending to be. How do you know him? I had to get more information. I was becoming exasperated with the vague responses. I dont really, I just know of his kind, he replied. Sowhat, are we talking womanizer or serial killer? I teased. Take your pick, he said in all seriousness. Right, I laughed. Like I was going to believe Jason was a serial killer, and Michael just happened to know this from his reputation. Michaels grip on the staring wheel tightened as his speed through the crowded downtown streets increased. I wanted to change the subject to something better, something that didnt piss him off, which is all I seemed to be doing so far. So, where are we going? He grinned, visibly relaxing, Its a surprise. I love surprises. I know, he looked pleased with himself. I sat there and pondered the strangeness of him knowing I like surprises. Was he just being presumptuous, or was it something more? I filed that one away for later. The more time I spent with him, the more questions I had. We drove through the narrow streets of the peninsula and onto the connector to James Island. With a sideways glance, I attempted a covert assessment of him. He was incredibly hot. Through his suit, I could make out the outline of ripped muscles in his legs and arms. Everything from his

hands to his posture to his face, screamed masculinity and dripped with power. He was like a Greek god parading around as a teenager. It was unnerving. It was exhilarating. He glanced at me and smiled. I returned it automatically. He had just caught me gaping at him, yet he basked in it, not at all seeming to mind. Of course, a guy who looked like him should be completely used to people gawking, a constant stroke of his ego. We drove out onto Folly Island and parked directly in front of a little restaurant called Caf Suzanna. It was a small, quaint place that must have been built twenty or thirty years ago. White washed exterior and candle lit windows, it had all the charm of a beach front bistro, while maintaining the slight elegance of an evening date spot. Michael opened my door before I had a chance and extended his hand. I took it and gave a little gasp. The moment my hand touched his, I felt a small jolt of electricity skirt up my arm. Not the kind that hurts, but rather the kind that sends pleasurable currents making you want more. He dropped my hand too soon, busying himself with closing the door. I wondered if he felt it too. Wishful thinking. The hostess sat us immediately at a little table in the back corner, which Michael had apparently reserved. He pulled my chair out for me and pushed it in as I sat. It was as if he came directly out of the Renaissance period. I half expected him to order for me with his old-fashioned mannerisms. Thankfully he didnt. Wow, everything looks delicious, I observed. Suddenly realizing how hungry I was. I had bolted from the dining hall before I had lunch. You should try the shrimp and grits, Michael suggested, pulling me from the thought. My favorite, I confirmed, Have you ever had it? No, but I bet its great. I think I will. What are you having? I believe I will have the Crab Au Gratin, he said. The server came by just then and did a double take. I bet anyone who saw him would do the same, and she wasnt blind. She stuttered a little and then said, My name is Sara. Can I start you with a sweet tea or maybe a coke? Michael tentatively looked at me. I would love a sweet tea please, I said. Michael grinned at me and then requested for the same. While waiting for our drinks, I tried to think of something to say. I knew there were answers that I wanted but at the moment I couldnt think of any questions to ask. The weight of his stare blanketed my mind with a haze. I couldnt formulate a single intelligible thing to say while I was in that embrace. I shivered, crossing my arms as my body finally registered the temperature in the caf. I was always cold natured and should have thought to bring an extra layer just in case. Michael stood up, shrugged out of his jacket, and placed it around my shoulders. I inhaled the exotically enticing aroma of him. I happily snuggled in the jacket that swallowed me, then I placed my arms in sleeves that hung a good six inches over my fingers. Better? he asked, smiling. Thanks, I grinned. We ordered our food and then fell into a quiet lapse that consisted of him staring at me, and me making eye contact and then promptly looking away. I was blushing with what Im sure was a childish grin. I couldnt stop smiling around him. The way he looked at me, the way he made me feel, it was intoxicating. What are you thinking about? he asked. About how impossibly sexy you are. I wondered again why he asked me out. I dont understand why I am here with you, I admitted. A questioning look swept his face. Do you not want to be? he asked. No. I mean, no, thats not what I mean, I stumbled. I just, I stared down at my hands in my lap, unable to face him as I admitted the truth, I dont know why you would want to go out with me. Refusing to look up at him, with the weight of my statement in the air, I continued to wait for a response. He sat in complete silence. He had no comment. I could feel myself start to squirm in my seat. You are the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. His comment sliced through the heavy air and landed in my chest. That was not at all what I expected him to say. I raised my face, desperate to see sincerity in his expression. The simple statement came from him like a vow. His face did not disappoint. I believed him, the earnestness was undeniable, but I didnt understand why he thought so. Ending the intense moment, the server asked if we wanted dessert. I regretfully declined after eating such a heavy meal. Michael followed suit. She slid the bill on the table and took our plates.

Michael grabbed the bill immediately, which came as no surprise. He placed a hundred dollar bill in the little black folder and then asked, Are you ready? Sure. I had no idea what I was answering, but at that moment, I felt like I would have followed him anywhere. We left Caf Suzanna and headed toward the beach, a short jaunt across the street. He guided me toward the pier with a large hand on the small of my back. The touch sent chills up my spine and down my legs even through my dress and his jacket. The walk down the pier felt amazing. A warm fall breeze swept over the railing, caressing my bare legs as we strolled out over the ocean. The waves crashing against the shore and slapping the posts of the pier were the only sounds around. I was all too aware of his body next to mine, as we walked along. He emanated some sort of soul deep pull that I was irresistibly caught in. I didnt want this night to end. If it would last for the rest of my life, I would die a completely happy woman. Yet I didnt know the guy next to me. All I knew was what I felt, an undeniable attraction to him, like some sort of magnetic pull. You dont say much, I noted, belatedly realizing it may have been rude. He smiled, What would you like me to say? Well, you could start by telling me why you wanted to have dinner tonight. I was curious. He hadnt said much to me at school, and I thought that was just how he acted with everyone around, but then during dinner he hadnt said much either. He looked a little surprised by my suggestion. I thought you would enjoy some company. No one likes eating alone, he added. It was an evasion. He gave me an answer that was polite, a response meant for an associate of sorts, not a possible girlfriend, which was of course what I wanted to know about. I see, so you were just offering your company as an act of charity, so I wouldnt have to eat alone? I was confused. Was this a date or not? He smiled, You make me sound like an escort. Isnt that what he just described himself as? Joining me for dinner so I wouldnt have to eat alone. I began to feel a little pathetic. Then he sighed. Lily, I wanted to take you to dinner because I he broke off as we reached the end of the pier. The wind swirled, sweeping around his dark hair as he peered out to the ocean for guidance. I wanted to be near you, he finally admitted. I blushed against my will. I was probing for just that but hadnt really expected he would say it. I had hoped, but knew it wasnt possible. He was perfect, could have any number of girls. It didnt make sense. I didnt have anything to add that wouldnt leave me sounding like the desperately eager person I was feeling like inside. I was seventeen and still had never had a real boyfriend. It was safe. I could never get my heart broken, but it was also tragic. He sighed again, frustration seeping through his voice, I always want to be near you, even though I know I shouldnt. I dont understand, I admitted, feeling dejected. Did he want to be or not? It wasnt that complicated, was it? He turned a wry grin my way, the moon gleaming in his eyes, I know. He lifted his hand and caressed my cheekbone, allowing his fingers to glide down my face, around to my neck, and just below my ear. You are exquisite. Every nerve in my body screamed at his touch, ached for more. My breath fell short and my heart began to beat rapidly. He caressed my neck and gazed longingly into my eyes. Then he took a nice long sweep of my face. He seemed to be memorizing every detail. I was lost to him right then and there. He could have asked anything, I would have obeyed, done anything, and I would have followed. And the only meek thought that crossed my mind was, I really hope I dont have anything on my face. Lily, he breathed my name in a husky, slightly accented voice. His drawl wasnt foreign per se, but the way he said my nameno one had ever said it like that. Im quite certain I stopped breathing right then. I wanted to touch him, to feel his perfect face and that amazing body. I took a leap. Shyly reaching for his slightly tanned skin, I touched his jaw line, with trembling fingers. He let out a deep breath and closed his eyes at the touch. Was it possible he felt the same thing I did, that same electric magnetism, that overwhelming pull? His long lashes lifted and a dreamy haze fell over his features. He leaned in ever so slightly, and I heeded the summoning. All I could think about was what his kiss would feel like, soft, yet powerful against my lips. There was a static field of danger and longing sparkling between our bodies, and it was utterly irresistible. The next sequence of events happened so fast my mind could hardly process them. Michaels eyes widen in shock andanger? He dropped his hand and spun away from me. Then something grabbed me by the shoulderssomething from the other side of the railing, which should have been impossible. I was leaning against a balustrade that faced an expanse of ocean, twenty feet above the water. I felt myself being pulled over the barrier in one fluid motion. Then I was falling.

I choked, salt water burning my nose and throat. The waves pummeled me, dragging me under. It was so dark. I could see nothing; all I felt was the sting of salt in my eyes as I desperately thrashed around, searching for the surface. Then I felt a seer of pain across the flesh of my upper thigh. I knew I had been dragged under the pier. The posts were riddled with barnacles that cut like ceramic knives. I heard a gurgling scream of pain come from my mouth as another wave over took me, slamming me into another spiked post. A hand wrapped around my arm and pulled. I panicked, pumping my legs and arms in an effort to free myself. Whatever had pulled me over the edge had come back for me. It was a futile endeavor. The hand turned into two, the second wrapping around my waist. The force of that pull overpowered my strongest fight entirely too easily. I was being yanked to the depths of the ocean, fear crashing over me, as I ran out of breath. I was going to die. The next moment, I felt my head surface, cool, light air replacing the warm, heavy water. I was completely disoriented. I wasnt being pulled to the bottom after all, but rather to the top. Then I heard the most incredible voice in the world, rough and against my ear, Ive got you Lily, its okay. It was Michael. I couldnt stop choking, as the salt water burned my nasal passages. He wrapped both of his brawny arms around me and waited for me to stop coughing. I went from pure panic to felling safer than I had ever felt in my entire life within those few moments. No ones embrace should be that powerful. Then he swam me all the way back to shore, never releasing his hold. He was a great swimmer, never seeming to tire or become short of breath. A constant flow of reassuring comments convinced me that all was right in the world. Even when I could touch the sandy ocean floor, he didnt let go of me. I was glad. My body felt like I had just run a marathon, and I wasnt sure if I could stand on my own without him. When there was only sloshing ankle deep water, I stopped walking, confusion sweeping over me. He stopped also and turned to me. His brow creased with worry and out of nowhere, he scooped me up in his arms and continued walking up the beach. What just happened? I asked, allowing myself to rest on his chest. You fell. But youre okay now, he recalled, with a distinct lack of emotion in his tone. No, I shook my head, still confused, I mean who pulled me over? What? He looked genuinely confused himself, which I found immensely irritating. Someone grabbed me. When you turned around to see what was behind you, someone pulled me over the railing, I explained. His brows pulled together, and then he said, Lily, there was no one there but us. You fell over, and then I jumped in after you. No, I remember! I insisted, what little bit of adrenaline I had left sparked its head. You turned around because I wasnt sure why, but I assumed it was because someone had been there. Look, something grabbed me! I was becoming exceedingly frustrated. He didnt look like he bought my story, which I had to admit, did sound rather impossible. How did something pull me over the railing twenty feet from the water? I peered over his shoulder at the ocean as we walked away. Something had to be out there, because if it wasnt, that made me crazy. Yet, I didnt see anything but the dark waves caressing the posts of the pier. I know what I felt, I kept insisting, though the wind had clearly gone out of my sail. Lets get you dry and this cut cleaned, he said. Dry and clean sounded good to me, since I was getting nowhere trying to convince him that we were not alone. Besides, my story was beginning to sound crazy even to me. Michael placed me on a bench near the car and popped the trunk. After shuffling around in there, he came back with a variety of first aid items, including some cleansing wipes and a large bandage. Does your car double as an ambulance? I tried to joke. It was odd he happened to have all the essentials just at the right time. He grinned at the suspicious humor, I like to be prepared. I peeled off the soaking wet jacket and apologized, Sorry about your jacket. Not only was it soaked with salt water, but also my blood. He shrugged, Its just a jacket. A light breeze swept through, and I became all too aware of my clinging wet dress and the location of my cut, high on my thigh. Michael was quiet as he gently lifted my hemline, exposing the beastly cut. He took his time, gingerly attending to my wound as I tried not to make any of the typical crybaby noises that usually followed such events. I found myself focusing instead on the closeness of his body next to mine, as his hands lightly brushed my thigh while he carefully positioned the bandage. Such proximity to him elicited many images foreign to my mind, things that I had never experienced with a guy. He was done too quickly. I sighed, not wanting him to stop. I no longer felt pain radiating from the cut.

Can you walk? he asked with an edge to his voice. For half a second I considered playing the injured victim just to feel his arms around me again, but when a flash of Lacy being carried away by him crossed my mind, I forced my chin out and my legs to move. I would never be like her. Yes, Im fine. When we got back to my house, he walked me to the front door, keeping an obvious distance between us. Please dont let him turn out like the rest, I begged any god that would listen. That was how it always happened. A guy would be interested in me but as soon as we tried to get close, he would lose all interest, keeping a clear distance as if I were a leper. I stood there a moment toying with my keys, not ready to say goodbye yet. Michael shoved his hands in his pockets and pressed his lips into a tight line. An awkward moment went by, and then I shivered as the wind blew from the Charleston battery over my porch, causing my still wet dress to feel much colder than it was. Michael reached for my arm and then quickly dropped his hand. You should get inside and warm up. Those dark eyes peered through his long lashes as he gave me an incredibly hot grin. A shiver caressed my body again, only this one had nothing to do with the temperature. Goodnight, I said fidgeting nervously. Sweet dreams Lily, he said with that delicious mouth and dreamy voice. I just grinned and walked inside before I did something I would seriously regret. My mind had been toying with jumping into his arms and demanding he finish the kiss he started on the pier. Once in my room, I fell against my door, allowing myself to unleash the childish giggling I had pent up all night. I couldnt believe I had just gone on a date with the hottest guy on the planet. I sighed with elation, still on cloud nine as I got ready for bed. I couldnt wait to dish to Bailey tomorrow.

As I drifted to sleep, I found myself in a garden once more. It was the same one as before, but I was in a different area. Surrounded by daisies and tulips, I danced in the expanse of color, twirling mindlessly, filled with radiance and joy. Someone approached from behind, wrapping two muscular arms around me. I laughed, turning to find the one I had been waiting for. I gasped in surprise. It was Michael. He held me, smiling as if he hadnt a care in the world. We were free, right then and there. In the back of my mind, I knew there was some reason we werent supposed to be together, but I didnt care. We were together then, and thats all that mattered. He picked me up and spun me around and around, as I giggled uncontrollably. His booming laugh was as genuine and carefree as mine. We were in love. And there was something wrong with that. Suddenly, I was being pulled out of his arms. Forceful hands grabbed my shoulders and yanked me away from him. My heart sank into the pit of my stomach, and I screamed, my arms reaching for him as I was forced back through the forest. My captor ignored my protests and kicking. Before I lost sight of him, I watched Michael sink to his knees in the field of flowers. Utter devastation and heartbreak swam in his sorrowful eyes. I saw a part of him die.

Chapter 11
I watch her sleep again, a favorite past time of mine. Shes fitful in her sleep. No surprise really, as she almost drowned earlier. I watch her toss around, sheets twisted and tangled with her long legs. She wears little to bed. Nothing but a tee and underwear. I would ask her to put on more, but I wont wake her. I cant let her know Im here. Her nearly nude body teases me beyond belief; my addiction to her threatens to end my long sobriety. Im tempted to let it. She calls out in her sleep, pleads for help that will never come. I clench my fists at my side, silently pacing the rug in her bedroom. Why am I here? I run my fingers through my hair. Im breaking so many rules by being here with her. Why cant I let her go? I know I never will, which makes me a tortured soul. Why cant I be with her? Its forbidden. The words play through my head, a banner that reminds me of my oath, and my loss. I am a cursed man who forces himself to face heartache every day. What a sad fucking life. If I could end it, I would. Thats not really true though. I wouldnt end my miserable existence because that would leave her with no protection. The day will come when someone realizes who and what she is. She will become a target, and I cant let that happen. I stop mid stride. I hear her sob. She jerks awake, and I disappear at once. Outside on the tree branch, I wait for her to fall back asleep. She is sad, her heart breaking from some bad dream. I cant stand her sadness. Im the one who bears the torture, not her, never her. I force sweet dreams into her mind then leave her in peace, only to enter the hell that is my life. The never-ending warfare.

Chapter 12
All night I had strange dreams. Happiness and torment alternated themes over and over again. I had no idea why I dreamed them, but Michael was in all of them. Its strange how one person can bring both pure bliss and heartache. I rolled out of bed and headed to the shower with a little spring in my step. I was still high from last nights amazing date. I hoped my relationship history was gearing to set a new record. Please dont run away screaming. On the way to school, I found myself singing aloud to the radio, something Ive never done, for fear of breaking the windows in my car. I couldnt wait to tell Bailey all about last night. I found my parking space, grabbed my bag, and popped out of the Viperand right into Michael. Oh, I was startled. Hi, I breathed, with much more elation than I meant to reveal. Lily, he returned with his irresistible smile. Did you have sweet dreams last night? he asked with a grin. Some of them, I answered honestly. A strange expression passed his features, but then he quickly wiped it clean. May I? he asked, reaching for my bag. Help yourself. My bag was a bit loaded, thanks to Mr. Brody. We walked as a pair through the courtyard, collecting awed expressions from some and pissed-off expressions from others, namely Lacy and Alicia. I tried Michaels nonchalance tactic of brushing off the attention, and I found I liked it. The only gawking look I acknowledged was Baileys, to which I shot a look that reassured her there would be major dishing later. She gave me a sly thumbs up with a wicked twist of her mouth. No doubt, she thought I would be discussing in graphic detail the make out session that occurred. I had never been able to convince her that I really was a virgin who had never made it past first base. Our last conversation on the subject ended with her saying, So you like to play the virgin card, I can dig it, lots of guys like that, all pure and innocent. We found our seats in Mr. Brodys class where the ogling was still taking place. Michael ignored the onlookers as he placed my bag by my desk and gave me a wink before he sat down. My face blushed of its own accord. It seemed I could do nothing to control that overt display of how he affected me. Quiet down people, Mr. Brody complained in his monotone voice. A few moments later, he had to add, Ladies! in a rare display of raising his voice. The noise fell to a few brave whisperers as I prepared to take more notes on material I wasnt really soaking in. How could I, with a guy like Michael sitting right next to me, staring per usual? The next two classes were the same. People couldnt get enough gossip about me and Michael. I even heard some talk of me dropping Jason, followed by excitement that he was now on the market. By fourth period, I had started getting used to the new stardom. Then, Lacy walked in. Serious buzz kill. She looked at me with an expression of pure hatred. I think if she had knives she would have thrown them directly at my eyes. Then she would pull them out and start shredding my face, all the while screeching my precious in a shrill that would make Gollum envious. She promptly turned that psychotic look into one of innocent friendliness and directed it toward Michael. Hi, she sang, as she plopped her bag down and flipped her blonde hair in my face, the ends whipping across my cheek. I suppressed an uncharacteristic urge to grab a chunk and yank. Michael gave her a nod. I cringed and hoped he wasnt blind. I am so worried about this test Friday, arent you? she asked him. Nope, he said simply. You arent? Oh thank god, Ive been looking for someone with brains to study with! she laughed, having no idea she just pinned herself as brainless. He had no comment. After a very sexy leg crossing that left her foot pressed against his leg, she asked, So what do you say to you, me, and a little studying Thursday? She batted her eyes, pulling out all her tricks. I bit my tongue and held my breath as I waited for him to answer. He opened his mouth to say something but was cut off by Mr. Garrett calling the class to attention. I gave an inward sigh of relief. I wasnt sure if I wanted to know what his answer was.

I went through the rest of class wondering what the hell I was getting myself into. I wasnt one for warring over a guy, but then again, I had never had anyone worth warring for. A part of me I had never met wanted to tell Lacy to bring it on. I endured the rest of the class watching Lacys desperate notice me tactics directed at the new object of my every thought. But as the bell rang for lunch, I beat her to the punch. I knew it was a dangerous game to play with her and possibly social suicide, but I couldnt help myself. Hey, I got Michaels attention right as she turned toward him. He smiled widely at me, surprise on his face. Did I sound desperate? Wanna eat lunch with us? I asked. His smile spread further in reply. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Lacy snatch up her bag in a furious little tornado, blonde hair quickly whipping out of the room, plowing through her minions. I found Bailey at our usual table as I walked over with Michael in tow. She beamed when she saw me. I could tell she was barely holding it together, she needed details and she needed them soon. This is my bestie, Bailey, I motioned to her and Michael shook her hand formally. She giggled in response. Well, how do you do? she mocked. Bailey, this is Michael, I continued. She gave me a crazy, wide-eyed look and turned to Eric, Well be back. There was no invitation for any of the boys to follow. Save me a seat? I asked Michael. He nodded with an easy smile and set my bag he had been carrying into the seat beside Baileys. Oh. My. God, Bailey said as soon as we were out of earshot. When did this happen and how. Details here, Im dying! she pleaded, her grip on my arm like a vice. I laughed. Just last night. Well, yesterday actually. Wait, I was here all day yesterday, and I only saw him being smothered to death by Lacys crew. She recalled. I know, I know. But then in art class yesterday, he asked me to have dinner with him. A gentleman, I like, she cooed. Yeah, so he picked me up and took me to a little place on Folly Beach, and then we went for a walk on the pier. I could feel my cheeks burn with the grin I had carried since last night. And she prompted. And then, I fell, I scrunched my forehead remembering the confusing fiasco of the reason I fell. I hadnt even though about it in light of everything Michael today. The guy seriously fogged my wits. Wait, what? You fell? You mean like fell in love, on the first date? she asked incredulously. No, I fell off the pier, I shook my head at her, And almost drowned! Oh god! Waitdont tell me, he saved you? she looked like she had died and gone to heaven at the thought. I smiled at her and said, Keep it down, we have half the school trying to listen to our conversation. Oh who cares! she said with a wave of her hand. About you? No one, Lacy said as she walked up to us. I cut my eyes at her. I could take plenty for myself, but I didnt let anyone treat Bailey like that. Lacy turned that evil look I had so recently become accustomed to on me and said, I guess you think your something special now, dont you? So, the new guy thinks youre an easy lay. So what, big deal! Every guy likes to run through a few easy ones before they settle down with a worthy one. Ouch. Then she leaned in closer and said, Stay out of my way. You dont want to fuck with me. The threat was real. I had no doubt Lacy would do anything to get what she wanted. Out of nowhere, Bailey surprised me with, Why would he want something that everyone has already had? Kudos to Bailey. I would have to give her props for that one later. Lacy turned a rare shade of red, No one was talking to you, dumpster diver! Hows my leftovers? Right before Bailey did something she would be suspended for, I took over. Actually, no one was talking to you as I recall. Not even when you so desperately threw yourself all over them, I said with an obnoxiously sweet smile.

She sneered and said, This isnt over. And with one more slice of blonde hair to my face, she walked away. And here starts World War III, I sighed. Let the battle begin, Bailey challenged, following Lacys back with slitted eyes. We got our food and tried to pretend everything was fine when we sat down with the guys. Bailey had more trouble with the act, still visibly livid. I was sure her mind was rehashing the comment about Eric being Lacys leftovers. Michael seemed to notice something wasnt right the moment we sat down. He reached over and touched my arm, Everything okay? I nodded and stuffed a piece of my sandwich in my mouth as a distraction from that penetrating, knowing look he had. Sometimes I got the impression he could read my thoughts. He dropped it and turned back toward the others. I was glad to see how easily Eric and his buddies accepted Michael. I was worried about leaving him with them, considering yesterday he was that annoying new guy all the girls were panting over. I guess they were cool with him just hanging around me. Sitting so close to Michael was distracting. I went through the motions of the conversation around me without taking my mind off of him. I couldnt concentrate when he was near. It was like my mind was automatically tuned into him, and I couldnt change the channel. Not that I wanted to. Art class was the same. I couldnt put anything of value into my painting, and the little bit I did only took away from the picture. Michael seemed to do more staring over at me than painting so I teased, You better start painting before Ms. Wood catches you slacking. Me? Mine is almost finished. How is yours coming? Yeah right, I peered over to see his and my jaw dropped. How did you do that? I was staring at another amazing garden, just like the one I saw in my dream last night. He closed my jaw with two electrifying fingers, With paint and a brush, love, how else? I was no longer concerned with the perfection of the piece. Instead, I was struck by the similarity of my dream garden, the one that included him. Lily? I didnt say anything. I didnt know what to say. Instead I just looked at him and tried to work through the answers to some questions I had. Did he know about my dream? No, that was impossible, and even if he did, how could he paint it so perfectly? Things werent making sense. Something was going on here, and I was being kept in the dark. I hate the dark. Lily? he asked, worry coating his voice. Yeah? I asked, snapping back to reality. Whats wrong? Nothing, IIs there something you want to tell me? He stared at me with dread in his eyes. That was it, I thought. He was hiding something, something he was afraid to tell me. After what seemed an eternity of swimming in those dark windows of his soul, he gave a grim smile and said, Not yet. That should have been enough for me to run away, far away from him. But it wasnt. I was so enamored with him I couldnt. Plus, I really wanted to know what he was so afraid to tell me, curiosity gnawing at me. So I agreed to see him again that night.

Chapter 13
I was determined to find out more about Michael tonight. Yes, he was hiding something from me, and I wanted answers, but I could be patient. What I really wanted tonight was more of him. I wanted to know who he was, what he liked, and where he came from. Someone as complex and alluring as him had to have an amazing story, an amazing life. Michael picked me up with his usual doorbell ring, right on time. Hi, I chimed as I swung open the heavy wooden door. His expectant face lit up when he saw me. My heart ached. No one had ever looked at me like that before. He did a once over, eyes traveling down and then back up to mine, You look beautiful. The observation was well-appreciated. I just hoped he didnt guess how long it took me to get ready, or how many outfits I blew through to find this one. I was so worked up to see him again that I spent the entire afternoon trying to make myself look like I deserved to belong beside him, even if it was a long shot. Thanks, I blushed. We traveled through the city, managing to hit every green light, and arrived at the aquarium. I was surprised at his choice of a date. I loved the aquarium, but I hadnt expected him to. He grinned, Youre surprised. Can you read minds? I was only partly joking. I really was beginning to wonder. He laughed aloud, Im observant love. Then he chucked me under the chin. The wide-eyed look and open mouth expression gave it away. Oh. Was my mouth really open? Damn it! Are you disappointed that I cant read your mind? He looked amused. No, I defended myself. It just meant I had one less theory about him. He laughed, Are you ready? I went to open my door and he shot out of his seat, I got it, he called as he trotted around the back of the car, mumbling something about women these days. I waited for him to hold the car door while I got out feeling more than a little special. Are you always such a gentleman? Only to those who deserve it, he said with all sincerity. So how do you treat those who dont deserve it? I fished. A dangerous gleam shown in his eyes, and he gave a bemused grin, I hope you never find out. I wasnt sure what to make of that. I joked, So should I be more afraid of you or Jason? He got that serious look back on his face, a warning. I think you should stay away from Jason. I know. But you didnt answer the question, I noted. What does your gut tell you? He looked forlorn. I think you could be dangerous I began, thinking of how he looked at Jason. I had never seen anyone look so menacing. Then I thought about the way he looked at me, on the pier, and then I remembered how he jumped in and saved me. But Im not afraid of you. I feel safe with you, I admitted. He tilted his head to the side, curiosity flashed across his face, mixed with an emotion I couldnt place. Was he disappointed or sad that I didnt fear him? One more question to add to the ever-growing list. Michael purchased our tickets and we walked through the double glass doors. Sweet, we have the place to ourselves, I stated the obvious. The aquarium was dead. If we werent the only people there, then everyone else was in hiding. We passed through the first floor exhibits, enjoying the quiet serenity. The water-filled cases of colorful, exotic creatures were soothing to the soul. On the second floor, we found the current display. I gasped in surprise, They have a whole seahorse exhibit!

Michael just smiled. Immediately walking up to the main tank, I peered in at the beautiful creatures I so loved. I watched in awe as the pairs of seahorses, with their tails twisted around each other, floated elegantly through the water. Michael walked up next to me and I turned to him, feeling like a kid in a candy store, I love seahorses! Why is that? he asked, genuinely interested. They are the most romantic animals! He grinned. Oh yeah? I continued, They mate for life. They swim around together, entwining their bodies with one another-they rarely part. I thought of the other, more morbid reason they are romantic. And if you separate them, they usually die. And even if they dont, they will never mate with another. Michael stared at me with sad, dark eyes. I know it sounds bleak Michael entwined his fingers with mine and dropped his face, peering at me through long, dark lashes. I think its romantic too. But he hesitated, seeming to wage an internal war with himself. Could you bear being parted from your soul mate? I swallowed. There was so much intense emotion placed in those words. I would rather have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all. He let out a breath, and squeezed my hands. Then he brought them to his mouth and gave each a soft kiss sending electricity skirting through my body. I hope you never have to lose. He said it so softly, I doubted he meant for me to hear. Me too, I thought. He was so intense in that moment, I wondered if he was really here or somewhere else, in some memory that dredged up feelings of love and loss. His eyes were closed, and he took several deep breaths, my hands still on his lips. He seemed so sad. Are you okay? I asked in barely a whisper. He opened those deep, beautiful eyes, hazy with memories, and admitted, I havent been this close in so long. Bingo, I thought. He was sad, hurt by some past relationship, and he was finally trying to be close to someone again. It would explain why he wasnt eagerly eating up the attention every girl in school was offering. Finally, an answer. He sighed and once more gave each hand a soft kiss, then dropped only one. Are you ready for dinner? I nodded.

We walked hand in hand up to the rooftop of the Vendue Inn, a restaurant poised in the east side of the city, with views of the harbor and historic district. The night sky was crisp and the light breeze circling the umbrella donned tables smelled of coconut rum and crab cakes. Michael leaned toward the hostess and requested, A corner table. Right this way, the short, busty redheaded hostess said dreamily. She was clearly in awe of Michael. No surprise there, so was I. Your server will be right with you, she said directly to Michael, oblivious to me. As we took our seats, I couldnt help but smile in amusement. What? Michael pried. The server was right on the hostesses heels, and we ordered our drinks, as I watched her ogle Michael as well. I stared at him for a second, trying to determine if he was playing dumb or really didnt know how people looked at him. I got nowhere. His usual perfectly composed expression met my stare. So what does it feel like to have people drooling over you everywhere you go? I asked curiously. He tilted his head to the side. You tell me. I laughed aloud. Now that was just ridiculous. Sorry, I cant help you there. Why? Are you saying you didnt notice the guy in the red shirt, when we first walked in, or the couple of frat guys at the bar right now? What? I consciously looked around. I found the guy with the red shirt. He looked deeply interested in his food, not looking at anyone. Then I looked at the bar. I saw a group of guys flirting with the bartender. None of them were interested in me. Look, I appreciate you trying to make me feel better, but Im serious. I mean, everywhere I have been with you people stop and stare at you like theyve never seen anything like you before. He leaned forward, And all the while, Ive never seen anything like you. He spoke so strangely sometimes. He was flattering for sure, but I had a hard time believing that. A guy like him should be with a model, a six foot tall, immaculately beautiful woman, not an inexperienced seventeen-year-old like me.

You dont believe me, he noticed. I cant. He grinned, My humble beauty. I could walk this earth for ten thousand years and never find anyone more beautiful than you. Youre perfect to me. But you dont even know me, I couldnt help but to point out. I swore I heard him say, Au contraire, as he took a swig of his drink. I sat there feeling small, unable to fill the big shoes he created for me. Trying to change the subject, I asked, So where did you move from? He looked caught off guard for a split second before his face changed to nonchalance, New York. Oh, I said, feeling a bit disappointed. I think I was expecting him to say something exotic, like Egypt or Tanzania. He laughed. So what brought you here? Business. What kind of business? What sort of teenager traveled for business? My father sends me to places around the world to do his bidding, he explained. And what sort of bidding is that? I probed. If I told you, Id have to kill you, he teased. There was humor in his eyes, but I thought there might also be a little bit of truth in his words. I was going to get at least one straight answer out of him before the date ended. So, youre saying you travel the world doing the bidding of your mob boss father? I guessed. Something like that, he evaded. He wasnt going to tell me what he or his father did. New direction, So where were you before New York? Brazil. Before that? Siberia. Before that? Washington. Before that? Scotland. How old are you? He opened his mouth and then caught himself. After he cleared his voice he said, Eighteen. How old were you when you started working for your dad? Ive worked for him for as long as I can remember. I had the image of a child thrown into a mob war in diapers and I shivered. Are you cold? he asked, misreading me. No. I tried to see the hurt little boy that must be hidden deep inside of him, but I didnt see one. There was nothing in his eyes that would suggest he was anything but powerful and in control. He laughed, Have I scared you then? He almost looked hopeful. No, I truthfully admitted. Our food came and I used it as an excuse to sink into my own thoughts. I had thrown a lot of questions at him and had gotten even more in return. I thought knowing where he came from and about his family would explain a lot, but instead I felt even more lost than before. So far, I had gathered that he worked for an elusive mobster father and traveled the globe doing things he either could not or would not speak about, which amounted to even more unanswered questions.

After dinner, we walked back toward the car, no longer hand in hand. I have scared you, he grumbled. No, I said immediately. Then why have you become so quiet? Im just thinking. Youre trying to figure me out? he guessed. I smiled. Is it working? he waited. I stalled for a moment, watching his reaction, hoping he would give something away. He had an excited and nervous air to him as he waited on the reply. He kept pace with me, meeting me eye for eye. He was waiting with bated breath. Just as we walked under a construction scaffold, he stopped, grabbed my upper arm and spun me around. He waited on an answer still. Not really, I finally allowed. He smiled in relief. What was he afraid I would discover? He closed the small space between us and grabbed my hands. I felt that familiar electricity that tickled my skin every time we touched. Then he brought my hand up to his face and gently pressed his cheek into my palm. He breathed out, You should be happy, he swore. My breath caught as he placed a kiss on my inner wrist. I amwith you, the words tumbling out of my mouth of their own accord. He opened his eyes and stared at me in disbelief. What? I he looked so incredibly sexy. I swallowed my nerves. I said...Im happy with you. A grim smile spread on his beautiful face, I dont want to ever hurt you So dont, I suggested, though deep down I knew this had to end in heartbreak. There was no way a girl like me gets a guy like him. Those dark eyes bore into mine as his face drew closer. I froze in a haze of anticipation. His face, his lips, those eyesthey were hypnotizing. As he closed in, I could smell the heady, exotic scent of him. I inhaled deeply and felt lightheaded. Then our lips met. It was like a sweet, yet sharp fire exploded in me. My body burned from my lips to my toes as the spicy taste of him coated my heart and mind. I felt his warm hands cradling my face as the kiss grew hungrier. We were like two people who had been starved for centuries and were finally getting what our bodies craved the most. The last thing I felt was the tips of his lashes tickling my cheekbones before everything became muddled. I heard a loud screeching noise and felt a strong arm wrap around me, dragging me down to the sidewalk. My back hit the concrete as Michael pressed his frame over me. When my eyes adjusted to the sudden chaos, I found myself under his hard body, all saccharine gone from his touch. He had one arm bracing himself over me and the other over his head, bracing the entire scaffolding rafter. I blinked in surprised and then let out a gasp, Oh my god! Are you okay? he asked, worried, yet without an ounce of strain in his voice. Iyou I stammered. Dont worry about me, he demanded. Are you hurt? his voice notched higher. No. He sighed, Good. Then he did something I couldnt explain. He simply tossed the rafter into the street like it was a basketball. No grunt, no struggle, nothing. He manhandled what had to be a five hundred pound pile of metal like it was nothing. He picked me up immediately and tucked me under his arm. I could feel myself shaking from nerves and adrenaline. Michael peered around the street and then up each building for a few moments with a fierce expression. I was too stunned to notice my surroundings. After a minute, he said, Lets get you home. The whole way back to my house, Michael looked anxious. He peered into dark alleys and checked his rearview mirrors frequently. I had a thousand questions but thought it best to not say anything at that moment. He was seriously on edge. Walking me to the door, he kept a hand on my back protectively. I unlocked the front door with embarrassingly shaky hands and immediately stepped inside. The way Michael was acting had me frightened. My mind filled in the blanks and determined that we were attacked in that alley and were now being followed.

He just stood at the threshold of my front door. Arent you going to come in? I urged. If you wish, he said unsure. I grabbed him by the hand and pulled him inside. Then I locked the door behind us and proceeded to close the curtains of the nearest windows. His expression harden. Lily, Im sorry. I shrugged. So what should we do? Call the cops? No, he said quickly. They will be of no help. Then what do we do, hide? I was lost, I had no idea what to do. He gave a dry smile, I will keep you safe Lily. How? I demanded, sounding a bit more frantic than I wanted. I will watch over you tonight, he explained. Do you have a gun? Because if those are mobsters I think we need some serious protection. He laughed and brought me to his chest. Wrapping both arms around me, he chuckled, We dont need a gun love. I wasnt so sure. But I enjoyed his embrace. I stayed in his arms until I calmed down enough to think straight. So youre staying here tonight? I asked, finally getting the meaning of his protection detail. Yes, but I will stay outside if you prefer. He was serious. What? No! Like I would make you stay outside all night! I laughed at the ridiculous thought. I dont mind. I want you to feel comfortable. You sleeping outside will not make me comfortable, I clarified. Okay. Michael? What happened back there? I inquired. I dont know, he said honestly. I breathed a sigh of relief, as much as I wanted answers, I didnt think I could handle hearing that there were in fact mobsters hunting us. You should get some sleep, he suggested. I was in no condition to argue. Ill show you to a guest room. As I began to walk up the steps, I noted there were no footsteps following me. I turned and gave him a questioning look, Whats wrong? I can sleep on the couch. He stood in the living room, completely rooted in place. Why was he acting so strange? I guessed it was his gentlemans manners. Okay, I sighed. I found some blankets and a pillow in the hall closet and brought them down to him. He looked genuinely surprised. Oh, thank you. Sure, I said then I gave him a little grin. Goodnight Michael. Goodnight Lily, he returned.

I tossed and turned for a couple hours. I couldnt get comfortable, and I couldnt sleep. I knew the most amazing guy in the world was just downstairs. The house was quiet, and I wondered if he was asleep. I threw off the covers and untwisted my nightshirt and shorts. I tip toed over to the door and placed a hand on the knob quietly. I twisted it slowly, trying not to make a sound. To my surprise, Michael was sitting in the hallway, back leaning against the wall just outside my door. He jumped up when saw me. Whats wrong? he asked. I took in his vigilant appearance, cringing at the thought of my bed head.

I cant sleep, I said meekly. Oh he looked around, What can I get you? I took a deep breath before I dared to ask, Umcan you stay with me? I am. Oh he realized what I had requested. Are you sure? He became completely still. I nodded and showed a little smile. Stepping aside, I gave him access to my bedroom. He walked in and stood in the middle of the room a little stiffly. He looked like a nervous puppy. Something washed over me, and I felt more confident than I ever had. Do you want to be with me? He gave an incredulous look and breathed, More than anything. Then what are you afraid of? I asked as I pulled back the covers on the bed. I saw his decision solidify in his expression. He never took his eyes from mine as he walked over to the bed. He kicked off his shoes and then unbuttoned his shirt. Wow. It was everything I could do to keep my jaw from dropping. He was everything I imaged and more. His perfectly tanned skin highlighted his chiseled muscles, making him look like he came straight off the cover of a Mens Health magazine. It was hard to believe he was real and in my bedroom. I focused on his gaze and took the lead, sliding between the sheets. He followed, and propped himself on his elbow, gazing at me still. My heart was beating nearly out of my chest as I lifted a hand to touch his rock hard chest. I let my fingers glide over the peeks and valleys of his abs. His eyes glossed with heat and then he moved over me, cradling my face in one hand and entwining the other in my hair. The feel of his body pressed against mine made all the nerves in my body dance. He found my lips for the second time that night. We began moving together as I took in his distinctive scent and taste. It was intoxicating. I dont know how long we made out. I was in a sea of bliss, all rational thought terminated. Each tantalizing wave took me further away-away from everything in the world. It was me and him, and that was all that existed. I was no longer sure where I ended and he began. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I thought about my virginity. Was it time? Would I give it to Michael? Absolutely. He pulled away, breath ragged. Emotion swam in those murky eyes. He gazed at my face and began tracing the lines of my lips, nose, and cheekbones. He did this for a long time. I wondered what he was thinking and wanted to ask, but all I could focus on was the touch of his body and mine. He kissed me gingerly on the forehead and rolled over onto his back, bringing half my body onto his chest. Sweet dreams Lily, he purred in my hair. I nuzzled into him, still breathing in his scent. He stroked my hair down my back, sending me into a completely peaceful state. He must have done that until I fell asleep because it was the last thing I remembered before lapsing into the sweetest dreams of my life-me and him in that beautiful garden. This time, no one tore us apart.

Chapter 14
I woke to bright sunlight streaming through the windows. A fresh day, filled with hope I never knew I lacked. I had a smile on my face, which probably never left from last night. Michael, I sighed inwardly like a lovesick puppy. But when I rolled over, I found no Michael. Instead, there was a single white Lily on the pillow. I picked it up and took in a deep breath, swearing he left some of his intoxicating scent on it. Or maybe that was the pillow I was smelling? Either way, I was in heaven. If I could find room spray with that scent, I would never leave home. I rolled onto my back and drew the beautiful flower to my chest, cuddling with the token of his affection. I laid there for a while, languidly replaying in great detail last nights amazing date. I took my time getting ready that morning, a silly smile still plastered on my face. I couldnt remember the last time I felt so happy, even when my parents were alive. Ginger eyed me knowingly, but chose not to comment as she handed me my usual lunch, and saw me out the door. When I got to school and began my progress up to the courtyard, Michael appeared in my periphery. Falling into step with me, he asked, How was your morning? Great, I began blushing. I love the flower. I thought you might, he mused. So when did you leave? I wondered. When I heard the housekeeper and chef come in. Yeah I guess that would have been awkward, huh? I realized, imagining our extremely proper housekeeper. Ginger was legit when it came to having guys over, but somehow I dont think Ms. Teresa, a former nun, would appreciate Michael sauntering down the stairs with bed head. He slid my book bag off my shoulder, sending shivers where his fingers grazed my arm, and then threw it over his. He took my hand. Are you ready to walk the gauntlet? he teased. I looked at the already peering crowd, many of which were not even trying to hide their disappointment at Michaels choice. I think you have officially made me the most hated girl at this school. He laughed, Oh love, they dont hate you, they want to be you. Besides, you shouldnt care what they think. Easy for you to say, I leaned my shoulder into him, Everyone likes you. School passed that day with a whole lot of me trying to pay attention in class without success as Michael did his flattering, yet distracting, constant staring gig. My GPA was really going to take a hit on the next interim period. My dad would have been disappointed, Rose-not so much. She is living proof that a woman doesnt have to have an education to work her way up in the world. For the record, I love school and have no intention of marrying for money, but at the rate I have been going this week, I may be living out of a cardboard box soon. By lunch, I was still floating on the cloud I had been riding since last night. Bailey and Eric were intimately tangled with each other, and Michael and I were doing our best to ignore the whispers and giggles coming from them. I was frequently embarrassed for Bailey. Someone had to be, she was born with absolutely no care in the world what anyone thought of her. Sometimes I envied her that. For most of the day, I had managed to block out the onlookers and commentary. My thoughts were so flooded with Michael, I couldnt think of anything or anyone else. I glanced around to see if I still had the onslaught of haters trying to tear me apart with their eyes. And thats when I saw him. Jason was standing against the far wall of the dining hall staring directly at me. It was an anomalous stare. He had little to no affect displayed on his handsome face. He just stood there and stared at me. I felt a little pang of regret as I realized I had completely forgotten he existed. Ever since my first date with Michael, Jason had ceased to exist for me. I wondered how long he had been watching from afar. Ignore him. Michael squeezed my hand. What? I asked confused for a second. Dont worry about him. I will take care of him, he decided, beginning to stand up. Waitwhat do you mean take care of him? I didnt like how that sounded. I dont want there to be any problems. I refused to let go of his hand. There wont be. A sure arrogance rolled off his tall frame.

I put my hand on his other arm, Look, I appreciate the thought, but maybe it would be better if I talked to him. He gave me a grave look. A low growl emanated from deep in his chest. I flinched. He deserves to hear it coming from me, I pushed on. Ill just let him know that there is nothing more between us, and he should move on. He doesnt deserve anything from you. Ouch, thats kind of harsh dont you think? Michael looked at me with those deep brown eyes and brushed my hair off my shoulder. There is someplace I want to take you tonight. Wheres that? I perked up at the thought of another date, all concern for Jason lost. Youll see, he smiled, Be at your house at 4:00? Okay. He leaned in and planted a soft kiss on my cheek as the bell rang.

I had barely finished reading Medea, when I heard the doorbell ring. A glance at my clock confirmed Michael was indeed perfectly punctual again. How does he do that? I have never been on time for anything. I practically danced down the stairwell, excited to see his delicious face. I swung the door open with more force than I intended. Michael stood there in all his hotness, looking amused, and just a little smug. He wore khaki shorts and a white shirt. Something was off though. It was a perfectly normal outfit, yet it looked odd on him. He wasnt a normal guy, and wearing that outfit looked almost comical. It was like wrapping a machine gun in tissue paper. Ready? he asked assessing my outfit. I chose a flirty skirt and sandals. I looked down. I think so Will you be comfortable walking? he asked. Sure, I shrugged. He led me down the battery and up Broad Street. So where are we going? I asked impatiently. Somewhere I think youll like. He wasnt going to tell me. He liked keeping me on my toes, keeping me guessing. How do you know I will like it? I challenged. He looked at me and grinned. Nothing, he was going to give up nothing. I sighed, Okay, well can you at least give me a hint? We turned onto Meeting Street. Michael tilted his head to the side in a gesture of contemplation. After a few chin rubs, he said, Its a place we have in common. Hmmm I thought. What do we have in common? Hes some sort of mobsters son, and Ive never even had a speeding ticket. Hes exotic and mysterious, and Im rather ordinary and predictable. I was lost in my thoughts, comparing the impossible dichotomy of our relationship, and hoping the opposites attract rule was genuine, when Michael tugged on my hand, This way. I looked up to see that we were headed straight into the Gibbs Museum of Art. Oh, of course. We both love art. Something like that, he laughed. He paid and we walked inside, greeted by the current exhibit. I loved the mixture of artwork they presented regularly, but I especially loved their new exhibit. What do you think? he asked as we walked into the gallery. There were paintings of various biblical scenes from around the world. Oh. My. God, I blurted out. No pun intended, I added. I heard Michael chuckle behind me. Im glad you like it. I browsed the artwork, getting the same chills I always got when I did so. There was something about biblical paintings that triggered a strong emotional response from me. They always seemed so alive, like they were real people telling a real story. I studied one of the Virgin Mary, another of Abraham and Sarah meeting with three angels, and then another of the Last Supper. I was enthralled with each, taking in every detail and watching the story come alive in my mind.

I caught a glimpse of Michael in my periphery studying a painting across the room. I joined him, threading my arm through his. It was a painting depicting a young angel stepping on the head of Satan, and holding a spear, readying to drive it home. I looked up into Michaels steady eyes. He seemed lost in deep thought. Is this one your favorite? He gave a wry grin, Its my favorite story. Thats the archangel Michael, defeating Satan right? Yep, he confirmed. I like that story too, but-dont you find it laughable? He turned to me, one eyebrow cocked, Laughable? Yeah, I mean look at him, I waved an unneeded hand toward the young, blonde angel. He looks like hes about sixteen years old, and yet hes defeated this big, burly grown man, who appears to be twice his size. That just doesnt seem possible. Michaels face was nearly composed, except for the pressed lips and dimples threatening a smile. Im serious! He looks like he is more likely to break out in a musical performance at a drag show than battle Satan. A booming laugh escaped Michael as he bent over, slapping his thigh. I found it humorous too but not hysterical. I looked at him grinning questioningly. I few dirty looks from customers got him to quiet down a few moments later. What? I whispered. I agree, he announced. I have never liked how they insist on drawing him. They make him look small and helpless. He slanted his eyes at the painting. But they didnt really know what either of them looked like, did they? I guess not, I said. Then asked, Do you believe they existed? He quirked an eyebrow again. Do you? I dont know, I answered honestly. I know there is good and evil out there, and I want to believe there are angels watching over us, but Ive never seen any sort of proof. He stared at me for a long moment. Then I asked, What do you think? I think you are beautiful, he said earnestly. His hand made its way to my neck and wound through my hair. I began to blush under his gaze. Youre crazy, I breathed. About you, he added as he caressed under my ear. It was rousing. Tingling sensations spread through my body, urging me to fall into his arms and let those fingers caress wherever they wanted. Thank God he wasnt a mind reader. I heard a little giggle and glanced down. There was a small girl, no more than three years old, smiling up at Michael. I chuckled, Aw, she thinks youre cute. Michael smiled down at her, and she waved at him. Then I heard a women snap in a heavy northern accent, Abby, get back over here! I looked at her mother who was now power walking toward us, irritation marring her slender face. She swung the little girl up on her hip, gave Michael a suspicious look, and then promptly turned away. When she was out of earshot, I joked, We should go before you get apprehended on suspicion of being a child predator. She should watch her kids! he defended himself. I laughed, grabbed his hand, and we left the museum. The temperature outside had cooled considerably. Dark clouds now covered the evening sky and gusty winds wisped down the street. My hair blew in my face when I looked to Michael for where to go next. He shrugged, Are you hungry? Sure, I said. Making a mental note about how often he seemed to feed me. We crossed the street and barely made it onto the sidewalk when sheets of cold rain began pelting us. I let a girly yelp escape and tried with no avail to cover my head with my hands. Michael grabbed my arm and tugged me toward the church closest to us. We ran down the jagged stone pathway and up the front steps. Michael swung open the large wooden doors to the church and quickly drew me inside. We were both laughing as we took in the state of our clothing. His white shirt clung to him like skin, showing off his tanned, muscular physique. He smiled when he caught me looking, and I blushed for the thousandth time since I met him.

Come on, he whispered, his mischievous grin luring me in. He pulled me toward a set of spiral stairs. I tip toed behind him as he approached a small landing with several doors. He opened one, peeked in, and then pulled me through. I covered my mouth, stifling a giggle as we cut through someones personal office to another door and then found another spiral stairwell. This one creaked as we clambered up the slats. I wondered if he knew where he was going. Finally, the stairs opened into a small bell tower. The room was about the size of a janitors closet and was empty save a dusty old crate in the corner. If we get caught up here I warned, still breathing heavily, excitement flooding my system. We wont, he reassured me. I gave him a skeptical look. Then he added, Trust me, I come here all the time. You do? I asked floored. What would a guy like him be doing hanging out in a churchs bell tower. Why? Its a nice place to think, he shrugged, And no one bothers me. The roof of the tower jutted out just far enough so we werent getting wet, yet we still felt the cool breeze stick to our soaked clothing. I shivered and hugged my chest. Michael folded me into his warm, strong arms. I laid my head on his chest and closed my eyes. He brought his lips to the top of my head and planted several soft kisses. He sighed, I cant lose you. My heart skipped a beat, and my eyes popped open. What did he mean lose me? I wasnt going anywhere, but did that mean he was? I glanced up, meeting his devilishly handsome face. What do you mean? Are you leaving? I asked. His mouth thinned, Not for long. When? Where are you going? I felt ridiculously lost. Tonight, I have to leave for a couple days, but I will be back, I promise, he chucked me under the chin. Can you tell me where youre going? I asked, feeling a little frantic. Was he finally running away like all my previous boyfriends? Was he even my boyfriend? He tucked a wet chunk of hair behind my ear, Boston. Oh my stomach sank to the depths at the thought of him leaving me. I had only known him for a short time, yet I had felt more in that time than I had in my entire life. He cupped my face in his hands, I wont be gone long, he promised. I gazed up into his gorgeous face, trying to memorize him. He still had droplets on his skin from the run in the rain. The dark sky cast sexy shadows along his chiseled features. I cant stand the thought of being away from you. He leaned down and gave me a tender kiss that made my legs weak. I joined in with a vehement edge. I couldnt stand the thought of being away from him either, and I couldnt shake the feeling that I would never see him again. Several intoxicating moments passed before he pulled back. He still held my face, and I looked into those deep murky eyes, praying for at least a little more time with him. Will you stay with me until I fall asleep tonight? I asked. He smiled peacefully, I wouldnt have it any other way.

When we got back to my house, I fetched him a robe to wear while his clothes dried. Then I changed my own. We camped out in the living room floor eating delivery pizza and discussing his travels. So whats it like in other countries? I asked generically. Which ones? I dont know, any of them. Ive never left South Carolina, I admitted, feeling utterly unworldly. Well, I would say its just the same as America, yet it would be just as accurate to say its completely different. What do you mean? He thought for a second, narrowing his eyes. Name something you like. I thought the question was strange, but I humored him anyway. I like flowers. Okay, he leaned up on his elbow, lets say every country is like a different flower. They are all flowers. They all have stems, pedals, and leaves that make up the whole. Yet they are all uniquely and vastly different at the same time. Just like every country has the same make up. They all have good areas, bad areas, and everything else in between. But, they are all very different. Every country has small details within their culture and environment that make them unlike any other. I pondered that. So countries are like people, we are all made up of the same stuff, yet we have different personalities?

He laughed, Thats one way of putting it, yes. I rolled onto my back and gazed at the ceiling. You know where I really want to go? Wheres that? he asked twisting my hair around his fingers. France. You should have went with Rose, he suggested. No, not Paris. I mean, dont get me wrong, I would love to go there, but I really want to see the countryside. I want to see an old chateaux. I want to walk the halls and pretend Im an eighteenth century courtier, dancing in a beautiful dress at a ball. He ran his hand over my cheek and bent down for a kiss. Then he whispered on my lips, Ill take you there one day. Really? I perked up. He grinned at my enthusiasm and then said, But for now, I think you should get some sleep. I groaned, But I thought you were going to stay until I fell asleep? I am. So then, if I dont fall asleep, you wont leave, I postulated. He chuckled and then swept me off the floor and carried me up the stairs. He placed me on my bed, and then crawled in beside me, wrapping both arms around me in the warmest, most comfortable embrace in the world. This has to be what heaven feels like, I decided. My plan to stay awake only lasted a few more minutes as sleep took me under and I drifted off in a blissful slumber.

Chapter 15
I woke with another serene smile on my face. I could get used to nights like that. I dreaded rolling over because I knew Michael was no longer there. He probably snuck out late last night and caught a red eye flight to Boston. I rolled over anyway to see if I could at lease still see the indentation on the pillow where his head had been, or maybe savor the exotic scent that marked him unique. No indentation, but there was something there, sparkling in the early morning rays of light. I sat up straight and rubbed my eyes. Then I gasped aloud. On the pillow was a stunning diamond necklace with a large, deep blue heart-shaped pendant. Wow. I picked it up, not entirely sure it was real. It was exquisite. Glittering diamonds reflected light as I turned it in my hand. They bordered the dark sapphire stone. It was mesmerizing. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen, and there was no way I could keep it. But it couldnt hurt to try it on before I gave it back. I hoped out of bed and scurried to my mirror. I placed the necklace carefully around my neck and admired it in the mirror. It was striking and lovely. Though I looked completely ridiculous wearing it with my pajamas, sporting a rats nest on my head. I closed my hand over the stone and reminded myself he would only be gone for a couple days, though I realized I never actually asked when he would return. I decided I would wear the necklace until I saw him next, then I would have to return it.

School passed by painfully slow that day. I found myself hopefully expecting to see Michael in each of my classes though I knew he was gone. A girl can hope right? Bailey caught up with me at lunch and asked about Michaels absence. He had to go out of town for a few days. I could hear the poutiness in my own voice. Sorry babe, she gave me an empathetic frown. Yeah, yeah, so how are you and Eric? Things seem to be going well, I nudged her. You could say that. A dimpled grin covered her face. Then she sighed, Oh Lily, I think I love him! Really? I asked, not at all surprised. Bailey was an extremist, go big or stay home was her motto in life and that included relationships. Yeah, he gets me, you know? Its like when were together the rest of the world just disappears. I thought about the way I felt with Michael. I know what you mean, I conceded. She smiled at me. You know, its been too long since weve had a girls night out. What do you say we go out Saturday, just the two of us, and get rip roaring drunk at my cousins bar? Her eyes gleamed with that naughty excitement she got when we were bad. An image of me sitting home all weekend, pining away for Michael, flashed through my mind. I could actually see myself curled up in the parlor chaise, watching the pendulum swing in the grandfather clock, over and over. I decided to take the more appealing road. You know, I think that might be just the thing I need this weekend, I decided. Its a date, she winked as we split down the hallway for our last class of the day.

That night I tried to keep myself busy so I wouldnt stay up all night thinking of Michael. Oh how I wished he were here. I never realized how lonely my life was until I met him. It wasnt until he left that I really felt the full impact our relationship had on me. I was in love. It was confusing and elating and magical all at the same time. I felt empty without him, as if he took a piece of my soul when he left. Its scary that someone can have that sort of control over me. After I filled ten pages about Michael in my journal, I put it aside. Writing about him only made me miss him more. Then I pulled out my old sketchpad, flipped to the next clean page and grabbed my black chalks. After ten minutes of staring at the blank white page, I closed it, and tossed in on my nightstand. With a sigh, I got up, lit a bunch of candles, and then turned off the lights. I laid across my bed with my ear buds in and my iPhone playing a mix of upbeat songs. I stared at the ceiling for a long time, trying to suppress thoughts of Michael every time they appeared in my head, which was constantly. The last song I remember hearing was Kings of Leons, Your Sex is on Fire. Then I must have drifted off because I was suddenly not in my bedroom. I was flying.

My wings moved the air around me in a rhythmic motion, propelling me forward. I was soaring high above the city, watching cars race down the narrow roads and partygoers scurrying from one bar to the next. Then I turned east and flew out over the Cooper River, watching the moonlight dance over the water as the waves rippled the light. It was amazing. I was free. It dawned on me then that I might could go anywhere I wanted. I knew exactly where I wanted to go, or rather who I wanted to go to. The problem was, I didnt know how to find him. And anyway, could I really fly to Boston? Suddenly, I heard a beastly sound in my ears. I spun around, but nothing was there. The sound was all around me now. The sounds were an unearthly mix of moaning and screeching. No, wait, they changed, they were now throat snarling sounds that threatened to rip me to pieces. I tried to scream in panic, but no sound would leave my lips. I could feel my mouth open and my throat push, but nothing happened. My heart began to race and I tried to fly away, but I was stuck. Midair, hanging above the deep water below, clawed hands restrained me from every side. I thrashed around, and felt their claws cut deep into my arms and legs. Searing pain pierced my skin with every movement. I finally screamed. I bolted up right in my bed, heart racing and sweat covering my body. That god-forsaken noise was still there, all around me. I jerked my head around wildly before I realized I still had my ear buds in. I ripped them out with force that sent my iPhone skidding across the hardwood floors. How could that noise be coming from my phone? I certainly had no music that sounded like that. I took in my surroundings. It was dark. All the candles had blown out, and the French doors were wide open. Curtains blew in the night wind as I examined every corner and nook in my room. I was expecting to find something. I could feel it. There was something here, something malevolent. I also knew that if I looked out my window, I would see the grim reaper staring up at me. Or maybe he was in my house. At that moment, I heard something walking around up stairs, which was an oversized, dusty storage attic. I panicked. I knew I had to get help. Call the police. Thats it, I will call and then hide until they come and search the entire house. My phone still lay across the room on the floor. I gave it a hard look and decided I didnt want to touch it considering the noises that had come out of it. Shit. My only other option was to get out of the house. A sudden adrenaline rush had me on my feet and charging for the door. I didnt look around the house, I just kept moving my feet down the hall and then the stairwell, holding on to the childish hope that if I couldnt see it, then it couldnt see me. I held my breath as if the minute effort would help me go unnoticed. When I hit the bottom stair, I heard a thundering roll of footsteps descending the stairs behind me. I let a helpless whimper escape. I stopped worrying about being quiet then, and ran into the foyer and snagged my keys off the table. I fought with the dead bolt on the old front door with shaky hands, slick with fear. A savage growl radiated from the bottom of the stairs, barely feet behind me. I didnt look back. My wet, uncoordinated hands finally turned the bolt and flung the door open. I darted out into the night straight for my car. I jumped into the viper, cursing as I had another shaky dilemma when I went to insert the key in the ignition. I screamed aloud in panic because I knew what ever was chasing me had to be here now. When the engine roared to life, I gunned it in reverse down the driveway and then swung the front end into the road. I heard a ding and some scraping of bushes, but I didnt care about the car. I was about to die. When the viper kicked into gear down the battery, I chanced a glance in my rearview mirror. Nothing. There was nothing but the street behind me. Nothing was following me. I realized I had no idea where the police station was. Since I had never been in trouble, I had never had a reason to go there. I did know where the fire department was though, so thats where I drove. One minute later, I pulled into the front of the old fire station and cut the engine. I jumped out of the car and ran through the tall garage that was open, skirting a fire truck and pounded on a door in the back. Thankfully I heard footsteps on the other side, seconds later. The door opened. Can I help you maam? an older gentleman with a protruding belly and a handle bar mustache asked. His eyebrows raised so high on account of my abrupt assault on his door that they were almost lost in his receding hair line. Theres someone in my house, I said breathless. I ran and then drove all the way here I leaned on my knees, panting. Now, calm down just a minute there, he said with his palms toward me. Someone broke into your house?

Yes! Are they there now? he asked. I dont know, he was there when I left just a minute ago, I waved my hand in the general direction of the battery. Okay, now where do you live? he asked looking like he was finally going to take some action. 322 East Battery, I said in relief. Finally, help. Jim! Scotty! he called up the stairs behind him. I heard footsteps pounding around the spiral stairwell and saw two firemen who looked to be in their early thirties, just as perplexed by her visit as the first. This is he turned to me, What did you say your name was honey? Lily. One of the firemen did a once over, and for the first time, I realized I was standing there in my pajamas. A barely there tank and shorts. Miss Lily here says there is a man who just broke into her house, 322 East Battery. I want you two to go check it out. Call the PD on the way, have them meet you there. The dark haired one said, Yes sir. Now what did the man look like sweetie? the older man asked. II didnt see him, I just heard him, I said, feeling completely unhelpful. So you didnt actually see anyone? he asked. No. Then how do you know it was a man? Well he got me. I really didnt know, did I? There has been a man in a hooded robe lurking around the house lately. I assumed it was him when I heard someone. I blurted out my fear without consideration as to how absurd it sounded. The older man asked, Did you report this to the police? No, I I realized that I was looking like a total idiot. Alright, he decided, already skeptical of my claim. We will check it out. You can stay here until we clear the house. He led me into a small office as the two younger firemen prepared to leave. He waved at a small table, Help yourself to some coffee if youd like darlin. Im good thanks. I sat in one of two wooden chairs facing his desk. He sat behind the rickety old desk with a puff of air escaping his seat cushion, and then straightened some papers on his desk. Excuse the mess, we usually dont have visitors at this time. I glanced at the clock and saw it was half past three. Thank you for helping, I said in a little voice. I was a little embarrassed for having beat down their door, half dressed, with an uncertain story. Thats what were here for darlin. He picked up a copy of the Post and Courier newspaper and leaned back in his chair. I got the impression I had busted in on his relaxation time, so I lapsed into a quiet wait, frequently watching the clock. I wondered what the firemen and police would find. Would it be the hooded stalker dude or a random robber? I thought of all the valuable things in the house and wouldnt at all be surprised if it were a robber. But then again, we had a state of the art security system that automatically came on at night. It wasnt triggered. I quickly became tired of staring at the clock on the wall. The minute hand slowly ticked its way up the side toward four oclock. I was still wired from the scare and subsequent run that I wasnt the least bit tired. The truth was, I was wound up at the thought of the firemen sending me back home. At four forty-five the firemen came back, the two extra bodies crowding the cramped office. I stood up and looked at each expectantly. Did they catch him? Who was he? Maam, the dark haired man nodded his head. The house is clear, we didnt find anyone inside, and we didnt find any evidence of an attempted entry. Where did you say you heard the person? I exhaled in exasperation, my worst fear coming true. The attic was where I first heard him, then as I ran, he followed me down the stairs, I explained.

Uh, huh. And you didnt see the person right? he looked like he believed me about as much as he would a crack head claiming to see a purple elephant. Look, I defended myself, I know I didnt see anyone, but I know what I heard. The handle bar mustache folded his arms behind his head and suggested, The homes down there are very old, and its not uncommon to hear all sorts of sounds, what with the house settling and what not I didnt hear a creaking old house! I heard someone running! I shouted, becoming angry. He put his hands up in defense as one of the younger firemen dropped his head, finding a convenient itch on the back of his head. Now there is no need in getting upset. I just want to be taken seriously, I urged. We are taking this very seriously. I understand you are upset. But, Jim and Scotty along with two police officers checked the house and found nothing. We cant do anything else at this point. There is no evidence of anyone being there, so we have no suspect to look for. I crossed my arms and cocked my hip, So am I supposed to go home now? The older man glanced at the two younger ones and then sighed, You can stay here until morning if it will make you feel better. Then he glanced at the clock, It will only be a few hours till day break anyway. Thank you, I said, still feeling defensive. I didnt really care to stay with strangers, but it certainly outweighed going home right then. I would take their offer. Around five thirty that morning I was curled up on a ratty old couch in what appeared to be a common area or lounge for the firefighters. The men left me alone, for which I was thankful. Not two hours later, the sun had brightened the sky and birds were chirping by the window. I could hear the start of traffic, likely Saturday morning shoppers trying to get the early bird specials. Deciding to finally man up, I folded up the blanket they had provided me and cleaned up my soda can. I walked down the stairs and peaked my head into Handlebars office. Thanks, I said feeling awkward as he offered a nod of his head in response. I found my Viper still in front of the garage, parked haphazardly, along with three new firemen who had clearly just reported to work. Each was staring at different angles, and discussing its horsepower and other engine capabilities. They looked up at my approach. All conversation ceased and three pairs of eyes glued to me, no doubt surprised at a half dressed teen walking out of the station. Excuse me, I unlocked the car and slid into the drivers seat. Two of the guys looked like they wanted to talk, but I made the conversation impossible by shutting the door and quickly driving away. I was still in my pajamas, still scared, and confused as hell. I didnt really want to know what they thought.

Chapter 16
Home wasnt at all what I expected. I drove around the block several times to see if I could detect anyone around the house. I imagined the same scene from last night, blown out candles, curtains swishing around, and eerie noises in the dark house. Instead, I found a quiet, brightly lit house with nothing out of place except the melted candles in my bedroom. After a thorough check of each room, I conceded that I might be crazy after all. Besides, if someone told me they heard monsters growling at them in their ear buds and things creeping around in their house, running after them, and occasionally breathing on their neck, well, I wouldnt believe her. I took a long, hot shower and put on the most comfortable shorts and t-shirt I owned. Then I found Ginger in the kitchen, working a crackling pan on the stove. The aromatic scent of peppers and eggs had my stomach growling. Smells delicious, I greeted her. She smiled her usual, warm smile, Good morning, Lily. I sipped the coffee she had already made for me, loaded with just the right amount of sugar and cream, waiting on the table. It was warm and comforting, wrapped in my chilled hands. Ginger? I asked. Hmm? Do you ever think its weird to do this? I blurted out. What do you mean? she looked confused. I mean this, I waved my hand at the stove. Doing something for other people when they can clearly do it themselves. She looked humored, Are you trying to say you want to cook? I laughed, Oh no, I would definitely burn the house down. But seriously, I mean, doesnt it seem unfair that some people get such different treatment. She smiled, I am paid to do this for you, not forced. And I must say, Rose pays very well. I smiled, glad to hear she was well compensated. So what do you like to do when you arent here? What do you do for fun? I asked curiously. I knew she was a very sweet, honest person, but I had just realized I knew nothing about her life. She continued scrambling the eggs for a moment before she answered. I dont really have time to do things for fun. I stay pretty busy taking care of the kids. I didnt know you have kids, I said not able to hide my shock. How could I not know that about someone I spend time with everyday? Well, theyre technically my siblings but are much younger than me. When my parents died, I took over the role of parent for them. Im so sorry, I muttered. She tossed an appreciative smile over her shoulder. Then she went quiet for a moment. Its hard to believe it happened almost eight years ago. It seems like yesterday. I know the feeling. She brought a plate over for me with a perfectly cooked omelet and fresh strawberries. You lost your parents too. I nodded even though it wasnt a question. She and I had a shared loss I was never aware of. She move toward the stove again. Ginger? Would you like to have breakfast with me? She looked surprised, but quickly accepted. Sure. We sat together and enjoyed her homemade cooking for several minutes before I spoke, breaking the silence. Does it get easier with time? Her red eyebrows furrowed in a sad expression, The pain eases a little over time, but you never forget. How did your parents die? If you dont mind me asking They were hit by a drunk driver. She smiled thoughtfully, My dad had saved up for weeks to take my mom to this five star hotel for dinner and a romantic weekend. Except, her face fell and her voice lowered, They never made it there. A drunk driver hit them on the interstate. They were killed on impact.

Then she laughed without humor, Ironically, the drunk driver walked away without a scratch. Did he go to jail? I asked, silently praying he did. Nope, he had a big shot lawyer who got the police on a technicality and he was set free. That is so unfair! I complained. I know, I spent months hating him and dwelling on the judgement. I even harassed the police department every opportunity I got for a way to lock him up. But you know what? she asked. I learned that you cant heal while you are still angry. So I had to let it go. She sipped her coffee thoughtfully. I was awed by her strength. I wasnt sure I would have been able to let it go. How old were you? I asked. Eighteen. It was the summer before I was supposed to go to college at Johnson and Wales. The accident changed my whole life in a single moment. I had two little brothers and a sister to take care of. There was no way I was letting them go into foster care, so instead of starting college, I got three jobs and tried to make ends meet. That must have been so hard. My heart ached as she spoke those words. I couldnt believe I had known a person for a year now, had spoken to her everyday, and had never known the burden she carried. It was. I did that for several years, mostly working at restaurants, serving, cooking, whatever they would have me do. And then I got my foot in the door of a catering company as one of their line cooks. I impressed a few people and eventually landed this job two years ago, which was a godsend. Rose offered to pay me to be available all the time. When I told her my situation, she offered me what three jobs together were paying me. Thats awesome. Yeah, she wanted to make sure she could have me here anytime. Thats Rose, I commented. She laughed and tipped her coffee cup toward me. So how old are your siblings now? Jessica is seventeen, Adam is fourteen and Daniel is twelve. Hey, Jessica is my age. I would love to meet them some day! She smiled, You two would get along great. Hey, I was thinking of hanging out by the pool today, they could come over. I suggest, And maybe they would want to have dinner with us tonight? I had a sudden urge to bring Gingers family and ours together. I think they would love that! she was grinning at my sudden excitement. I felt a connection with Ginger, having heard of her ordeal, and I wanted to give her family anything I could, even it was just a fun day in the pool.

Around noon, Gingers siblings came over. They all had the same endearing warmth and redheaded genes as Ginger. I met Jessica who turned out to be a lot like me. It wasnt easy being a teenager and losing ones parents. She went to a different school and had a million questions about Legare Prep. Over the past year, I had become so used to the school that I had forgotten how different it was from the public schools in Charleston. Daniel and Adam mostly kept to themselves, having a blast in the pool. I was surprised to see what joy I felt at watching them have a great time. Their loud laughs and constant smiles filled a hole in the house that was always empty. The Waring house needed some more life, though I doubted Rose would agree. After a while, we challenged them to a game of Marco Polo. We played until Ginger called us all inside for dinner. I fetched towels from the pool house and handed them out as Daniel beamed at me, Can we do this again some time? Absolutely! I said, wrapping one arm over his shoulder. I hadnt realized how lonely and quiet the house was until it was filled with their laughter. I always wanted siblings. We gathered around the dinner table in a state that Rose would scoff at. We were all still in our damp bathing suits with towels protecting the chairs. Ginger didnt seem to mind though. On the table was a fantastic meal of homemade lasagna, one of my favorites. We typically didnt have such carb-heavy meals per Roses request. It was nice to indulge occasionally. This is awesome Ginger! I complimented.

I second that, Jessica added. We devoured the meal and chatted like one big family. They teased each other and laughed together. It was nice. I wanted it to be this way all the time. You guys should have dinner here every night, I suggested. Heck yeah, Adam agreed. Ginger gave me a warning look and said, We will see. Rose will be back in town soon. Oh yeah, I thought. Rose would have to approve. I tried to picture her reaction sitting with us right then. Gingers family created a fun, homey feel to the mansion. Rose was fun too, just not in the same way. I decided I would work on getting her to accept them. After dinner was over, we said our goodbyes and Ginger drove Jessica, Adam and Daniel home. The house seemed eerily quiet when they were gone. Their company had made me completely forget about the strange episode last night. Good thing I wasnt planning on staying the night here by myself, I thought. I would simply hit Bailey up for crashing at her place after we went out that night.

At ten past eight, Bailey honked the horn of her silver Audi TT outside my house. I grabbed my bag and skipped to the car, I wasnt exactly excited about going to the bar tonight, but I was excited about not having to stay alone tonight in a possibly haunted house. Baileys cousin was an entrepreneur of sorts. He started out by opening an exclusive club he named Brown Downtown, which offers a hangout for the wealthy who want to mingle with their own without the hassle of reporters or average people bothering them. Then he dabbled in some not so legal business when he saw there was a demand from his clientele. In short, there are private rooms in the club that are strictly protected by massive bouncers, and require a special password to enter. From what Bailey and I can tell, there are beautiful women who come in and out of some of the rooms with clients (several of which I know for a fact are married), and then there are suits who go in as a group, likely conducting drug deals or insider trading. It was a protected place for privileged people. Gag. We arrived at the antique art gallery that made up the street view cover for the bar. We slipped down the back hallway and proceeded to go through a series of doors, hallways, and elevators until we were greeted by the massive muscle who guards the thick, reinforced door. He looked to me like the meanest, scariest bouncer in the world. A thought of passing by him in a dark alley had me swallowing fear. Bailey however, seemed completely immune to the menacing look and massive forearms crossing his chest. Hey Bear, hows it going? she chirped. He looked at her face closely and then uncrossed his arms. Hey darlin, havent seen you here in a while. I had imagined a growling, Neanderthal response, but instead was surprised to hear a soft, teddy bear voice. He had a very be afraid of my Ogre side Shrek persona going on. It shouldnt have surprised me that Bailey was friends with a bouncer here. She had a habit of dating older guys, which I assumed came from some unconscious drive to rebel against her father. It never turned out well for her because the types of grown men who date teenage girls are never in it for a serious relationship. So I took your advice and decided to hang with peps my own age for a while, she announced. Good, he shook his head approvingly, Hows that working for you? Really good actually, I have a great guy now, she beamed. Bear chuckled, Well, you let me know if he steps out of line, you hear. Will do. Bailey turned to me, This is my best friend Lily. She and I are in need of some serious party time. I smiled at Bear. He nodded and warned, You two stay close in there. Its not a very good place for young girls, you know. And dont go off alone with any strangers, you understand. He cocked an eyebrow at Bailey until she sighed and conceded. I nodded promptly when he turned that parental look on me. When he opened the door, we were blasted with loud music and cigar smoke. I followed Baileys lead over to the bar and sat next to her on the only two empty seats left. She ordered two Jager Bombs as I scoped out the scene. Scantily dressed cocktail waitresses weaved in and out of groups of mingling people. The men mostly wore expensive suits or silk shirts while the women wore every type of dress or skirt under the sun, each one shorter and tighter than the last. Many of the wealthy men took their mistresses here, showing them off like prize cattle. Bailey once tried to convince me that if you squint at just the right angle, you can actually see the leashes they are being pulled around on. She was of course drunk at the time. Bailey handed me the hefty shot, and we both tipped them up to start the night. A shiver worked its way down my body, a typical reaction when I drank liquor. Bailey let out a little woop and ordered up some cocktails for us to sip. I always let her pick out the drinks as I usually only drank wine and wouldnt even know what to ask for. I glanced at the bouncers guarding doors which held some sort of private business. What do you think really goes on in there? I asked. She followed my gaze, Bear says its the source of white collar crime and the citys most expensive hookers.

I wasnt surprised. These men could have so many different women, why sleep with hookers? Arent they worried about getting STDs? Bailey snorted, Rich people dont want what they already have. Huh, I thought about that. It was hard to fathom how people who have everything still arent satisfied. It made me wonder if there was such a thing as satisfaction at all. My new life with Rose left me wanting nothing-except my parents back. I guess there is always room for wanting. Before I knew it, I had finished my cocktail, put down two more shots with Bailey and started on another cocktail. I was feeling good, really good. Bailey hopped out of her seat and started letting the music pull her to the dance floor. She spun around, eyeing me with a devilish grin and hooking her finger in a gesture for me to join her. I shook my head and held up my drink. I wasnt much of a dancer, and I wouldnt be getting out there until I had a little more. She rolled her eyes playfully and continued on without me. I watched her dance away her worries. She was a great person and a great friend, but for all she had, she hadnt had a great life. With the loss of her mother, and enduring years of her fathers erratic parenting and fluctuating affection, she had it tough. Sometimes I think Im the only normalcy in her life. I watched her spin around and move to the beat of music. She had her eyes closed and was smiling. A hot breath caressed the back of my neck, So wheres the boyfriend? I jerked around startled, Jason! How did you get in here? I could ask the same of you, he smirked. I got in here because I came with Bailey. Who got you in here? I asked. Who says I didnt get in here on my own? Right, youve only lived here for a couple of weeks and you just happen to know the right people to get into an exclusive club that few people know exist, I challenged. He just winked and ordered a scotch on the rocks. He took the stool next to me, like he owned it. Derrick slinked into a seat a few feet away. He took a swift glance at the crowd and then laid his intrusive eyes on me. I never got used to that skin crawling, hair standing on end feeling. I promptly looked away and did my best to ignore him. Hitting the hard stuff huh? I have a high threshold for alcohol, Jason shrugged. I rolled my eyes. You never answered my question, he said as he sipped his drink. I eyed him for a minute, Hes out of town. Is he coming back? Why do you ask? Just wondering if youre single, he grinned. He will be back soon. And no, Im not single. He sipped his drink and eyed me over the rim of his glass for several minutes. He looked like he wanted to say something. What? I asked, no longer able to stand the heat of his gaze. You should stay with him. What? I was struck stupid. You should stay with him, he repeated. He was sending some serious mixed messages. One minute I thought he was hitting on me, and the next he was urging me to stay with Michael, which made no sense considering Michael was urging me to stay away from him. What happened between you two? I asked bluntly. What do you mean? he asked. You know exactly what I mean. I dont believe for a second that the two of you dont know each other, I accused. I looked to Derrick for some ounce of affirmation. For the first time since I met them, he was looking anywhere but at me. Lovely. Jason slanted his eyes in deep thought. I imagined he was recalling some event and pondering whether or not to tell me. Please just tell me. Why dont you ask him? he suggested.

Im asking you, I countered. He downed his second scotch, slammed the glass on the counter and stood up. Before he walked away he said, Stay with him. He can protect you. I chill went down my spine, Why would I need protecting? He and Derrick were gone before I could finish my sentence, swallowed up in the crowd. I gaped at the empty space beside me. Why did I need protecting? And from what? Bailey plopped down on the stool beside me and brushed her slightly sweaty forehead. I miss Eric, she pouted. I gave her a rueful smile and suggested, Lets get out of here. Lets, she seconded.

Chapter 17
I came home the next morning with a slight hangover, nothing too serious, but a headache nonetheless. Ginger made blueberry muffins, which helped ease the sour feeling in my stomach. Im going to the store in a little bit, is there anything in particular you want me to get? she asked. I think Im good. But thanks, I waved as I headed up to my room. Today would be a lazy day, I thought. I would sit around, maybe take a nap by the pool and use the least amount of brain cells possible. Yep, that sounded like a very good idea, considering the confusing array of events and emotions swimming in my head. I twisted on my bikini, clipped my hair on top of my head, and headed outside. The pool was an irregular shape that someone undoubtedly had to design to fit in the small backyard. I found my chair and plopped down for a good long sun bathing session, hoping to land a few hours of naptime as well. The sun felt warm and radiant on my skin. It was late October now and though it was still hot and sunny in Charleston, there wasnt as much of the smothering humidity we have in the summer, which is almost unbearable. I let the rays soak into my skin, and I breathed in deep breaths of fresh air until I fell into a sleep that could be characterized as more of a coma. It felt like I had been out for days when I heard a voice coming from over the fence. You look like you could use some company, Mr. Manning drawled in that creepy, flirtatious voice I loathed. I opened one eye and cupped my hand at my brow to block the sunlight. Im good thanks, I said in a bored tone. He persisted, Maybe you need someone to put some suntan lotion on your back. I detected a slight slur in his words. Great, he was drunk. I decided to give him the silent treatment. Having a conversation with an intoxicated person is a moot effort. I bet being in that big house all alone must be lonely. More silence. There is a lot I could show you. You will like it, he promised in his spine-chilling pedophile voice. Then I broke my vow of silence. Where is your wife? I accused. Im more interested in younger women, he retorted. Well, Im not interested in old men, I said. Mr. Manning chuckled, How do you know unless you try it? Not in a million years, I concluded the conversation. Then I grabbed my towel, wrapped it around myself, and headed for the house. It sounded like he said something else, but I just ignored him and kept walking. I slammed the back door harder than I expected and called to Ginger, No worries, its just me. No answer. She must be at the market. I dropped the towel in the laundry room and headed back toward the kitchen to get some water when I heard the last thing I wanted to hear. You can run, but you cant hiiiide, slurred Mr. Mannings disturbing voicein my house! I spun around quickly, eyes wide with shock. He actually had the audacity to come into our house uninvited. Get out of here! He started laughing and came closer. I swear if you dont leave, I will call the cops! As I laid the threat in the air between us, butterflies buzzed around in my stomach, beating their wings with a violent fervor. The situation with Mr. Manning had just crossed a line of demarcation. His face fell serious at the mention of the police. I wouldnt do that if I were you, he threatened. Then he chuckled, humor never making its way to his face. He gave a devious grin, You know I punish bad little girls. He reached his hand toward my face, and I jerked away. I walked a few steps back on shaking legs. Dont panic. I just needed to buy a few minutes time, and Ginger would be back. He continued his pursuit. I dont know why youre playing hard to get. I know you want me to take you. The way you always dangle yourself in front of me, practically offering yourself on a silver platter. He glanced down and took a long sweep over my bikini clad physique. I felt the air leave my lungs, and my body spike with fear. The fight or flight reflex was about to kick in, and I wasnt a fighter. He lunged toward me.

I tore away from him and into the living room, making a beeline for the front door. Only a few strides into it, I screamed as he grabbed a chunk of my hair and pulled me backward. I hit the floor, automatically reaching for the hair he had gripped in his fist. Tears burned my eyes as he continued to pull. With a wild swing, I punched in the general direction of his face and hit nothing, only succeeded in jerking my head and pulling yet more hair out. I then tried another tactic, kicking my legs madly until I felt my foot meet his shin. It hurt like hell but I kept kicking my bare feet. I was fighting for my life. The struggle seemed to increase his excitement. His laughter continued to sound wicked as he aggressively reached down and yanked on my bikini top. Something inside me snapped. No guy had ever seen me naked, and I would be damned if the first one was this drunken pedophile creeper. I punched with all the might I had right between his legs. His entire body flew backward and crashed into the couch, causing both to flip over. I was amazed. I looked down at my fist in disbelief. I couldnt believe I had just done that. Mr. Manning crawled to his feet, blood smearing his face. He stood behind the overturned couch with a look of pure terror. It took me a dazed second to realize that look wasnt for me, he was staring at something behind me, something much taller than me. I spun around, and to my relief, Michael stood just inches behind me. I scurried to my feet, and stood beside him. He looked one hundred percent insane, more animal than man, standing there with fists balled, fury radiating from his body. Through clenched teeth, he asked, Are you okay? His eyes never left Mr. Manning. I nodded. I want you to go upstairs and dont come down until I get you, do you understand? I knew how to pick my battles. I didnt like being treated like a child, but I wouldnt in a million years argue with Michael when he had that avenging, dangerous edge to him. I quickly made my way up the stairs, not sparing a look for Mr. Manning on the way. I practically dove into my room and closed the door. After catching my breath, curiosity got the better of me, and I opened my door a little to listen to what was happening. I heard some furniture shuffling and Mr. Manning slurring some pathetic pleas. I couldnt make out anything that was said, but I didnt need to, the tone said it all. Michael said nothing, while Mr. Manning begged and even squealed a few times. Then I heard a loud, ferocious growl that echoed through the house. My heart started to pound even harder. The final noise was a sickening thud that sounded like a heavy weight being dropped from mid air. I stopped breathing as I listened for more, but there was nothing. I waited for several agonizingly long minutes before Michael appeared outside my bedroom door. I just stared at him, afraid to utter a single word. I didnt know what to say. I didnt know what to think. I didnt know what to make of the noises I had heard. He seemed to be taking deep breaths as he calmed himself down. Come here, he gestured with open arms. I immediately leapt toward him, allowing myself to be folded into the arms I knew would make everything better. My mind raced, wondering what happened down there. Something told me there was a real possibility Mr. Mannings existence just ended on the floor of my living room. I was surprised to realize that it didnt matter if Michael had just killed someone or not, I still loved him and wanted to be with him. We stayed wrapped together for several minutes. He brushed my hair back with his hand as he occasionally planted sweet kisses on my forehead. Finally, he said, Youre still shaking, why dont you get a hot shower, and I will meet you for dinner down stairs. I liked the sound of a hot shower. I felt an overwhelming urge to wash off any Mr. Manning germs that remained on my skin. Yeah, I think I will. But you can stay up here if you want. I will give you some privacy, he nodded, then sent me a sorrowful smile and walked away.

My shower took longer than it should have because I washed at least five times until I was sure all the creeper grime was gone. I towel dried my hair, threw on some comfortable clothes, and went down stairs. To my surprise, I found Ginger and Michael both in the kitchen, chatting like old friends, while Michael helped put the groceries away. Well hey there, Ginger grinned at me, You didnt mention you were bringing a friend to dinner. There was excitement gleaming in her eyes. Michael had clearly turned on the charm for her. I looked at him, but he just smiled. It was kind of a last minute decision, I explained. Well, you have your choice of filet, chicken, veal, or vegetarian, Ginger looked at me expectantly.

I threw the ball in Michaels court. He shrugged his indifference. The filet sounds good, I suggested. You got it, Ginger said. Sweet potato with it? You know me, I grinned. Michael and I made our way to the sunroom while Ginger whipped up what was sure to be a tasty dinner. Neither of us said anything for a few minutes. Michael lazily caressed my hand, and I decided he wasnt going to bring up recent events. What happened? He looked at me with a perfectly composed expression. You were attacked, and I took care of the problem. About that I started, not entirely sure I wanted to hear the truth, though knowing I had to know. How did you take care of it? He studied me for a moment and then patted my hand, He wont be bothering you anymore. I promise. I believe you, but How do you ask someone if theyve just committed murder? What happened to him? I asked carefully. It doesnt matter what happened to him. The finality in his tone suggested I drop the subject. I couldnt. But it does. I lowered my voice. Look, I am thankful you saved me, but I need to know. I mean, are we going to jail? He laughed. Im serious! I accused. Lily? Do you trust me? he asked with those dark eyes zoning in on mine. Yes, I admitted. Then trust me when I say you should just forget about Mr. Manning. I studied him, contemplating what that would mean. Would Mr. Manning stay away from me, holed up in his house, afraid to step foot on my property in fear of Michael? No, his statement had a more final note to it. Besides, I felt it in my gut that something more permanent had become of Mr. Manning. I decided that I would let it go for now because I did trust Michael. Besides, Mr. Manning was a total douche bag that I never wanted to see again anyway. I found a temporary bliss with ignorance. We ate dinner in the soft glow of the dining room. I urged Ginger to join us, but she refused, instead urging me to get to know my friend, since he was incredibly hot. Yes, those were her exact words. So Michael and I enjoyed a quite dinner that was a bit awkward as both of us tried to pretend that the whole fiasco with Mr. Manning never happened, yet in reality it happened less than three hours ago in the room right next to us. Ginger was cleaning up and getting ready to leave for the night, while Michael and I were on the porch, saying our goodbyes. I missed you, I said, breaking a long, awkward silence. I missed you, he purred, cupping my face in his hands. Can you stay with me tonight? I asked bluntly. He smiled genuinely, If it would make you happy. It would make me the happiest girl in the world, I said. Then I added, But you might have to leave and come back when Ginger is gone. He grinned at me and winked. Ill see you later love, he said in that dreamy, exotic voice, making me forget all my worries. I watched him walk down the driveway and get into his car. Then I watched the taillights of his sleek, black car until they disappeared around the harbor. Back inside, I said good night to Ginger and made my way to my bedroom, trying not to count the seconds until Michael came back. I waited what felt like an eternity when Michael knocked on my bedroom door. I sprang off the bed and yanked the door open. His smile was beautiful, lighting up his handsomely tanned face. How did you get in? I asked. He just grinned and brought his lips down to mine. All questions forgotten, I let my lips move with his to create a heaven on earth right there in my bedroom. I knew there would be sweet dreams tonight, with Michael holding me.

Chapter 18
I leave her house in the early morning light. The sun has yet to grace the battery wall, though tiny slivers of light begin to fan over the east harbor. Im smiling like a love sick sap when something stirs in my peripheral. I feel the presence of an old friend. His wiry, copper hair and pale skin glow luminous in the dim morning. He leaps off the wall of the battery, and falls into step beside me. Michael, he greets me. Gabriel. I can tell he knows more about why I am here than I would like. He eyes me for a long moment and then gazes at the house behind me. Is it really her? By the emphasis that he puts on her I know Im in deep. There is no point in feigning ignorance. I growl instead. He arches his brows. Why are you here? You know what you risk brother. The warning is no news to me, its a threat I live with everyday. Why are you here? I challenge, stopping in my tracks. He tilts his head to the side, studying me, but he never responds. I run my hands through my hair and begin to walk down the battery once more. He finally answers. I heard you were hanging around here and was unaware of any jobs in the area, so I was curious. I sigh, One day, I would love to find out who your sources are. Job security, my brother. He shrugs an easy shoulder. We walk in silence for a moment more. I dont pretend not to be here because of her, and he doesnt probe further. He is possibly the only one who still remembers her. If I had it my way, he wouldnt. Perhaps you can use your sources to find out why the Fallen are interested in her. I have never asked anyone else to help me in my oath to protect her. I hate that I am doing it now. I will, he agrees. But you can be assured they mean business. After all, they sent their big guns. I laugh at the reference. I will break them. Do you have any theories? Gabriel takes a moment of silence. Many, he concedes. I will let you know what I find out soon. He nods and disappears at once. I curse. He is such a secretive bastard. I need answers now, damn it! Her life may be at risk. All I know for sure is that the Fallen have found her, and if they figure out who she is, they will stop at nothing to win her soul. If that happens, were all fucked. I take one last longing look down the battery at where she still sleeps, and then I disappear too.

Chapter 19
The next few days passed in complete bliss. Michael was by my side in every class, walked with me in between, sat with me at lunch, and held me as I fell asleep every night. If someone asked me a few weeks ago if I thought that sounded like an unhealthy, smothering relationship, I would have agreed. But now, I sang to an entirely different tune. I never knew what I was missing until I met him, and now that he was in my life, I could never be complete without him. After school on Wednesday afternoon, we were lounging on the porch swing, enjoying the salty breeze and shuffling through the songs on my iPhone. I cant believe you have never used one! Have you been living under a rock? I accused. Maybe I have, he snatched it from me, and began scrolling through my playlist. He burst out laughing when he got to a particular song, Really? Guns N Roses? How old are you? he teased. I swiped it back, I have eclectic taste, you never know when the mood will strike for some November Rain, I defended myself. A heavy blush bloomed on my face, waiting for him to condemn my soft spot for 80s rock. Then Michael sat up, stiffening, his body suddenly alert. I followed his gaze to the front drive and watched a police car stop directly in front of my house. Two officers exited the car, simultaneously adjusting the heavily laden belts on their waists. They glanced around, surveying the yard and exterior of the house, one with a suspicious frown, the other with a snarky, bored expression. Michael stood up, and I quickly followed suit. My heart began to flutter as I registered why they may have been here and who they may have been looking for. Can I help you? I asked, forcing my voice to remain calm. The bored officer with a pencil mustache and sunken face replied, Are you the owner of this house? His face displayed the obvious absurdity of the question. No, but I live here with my grandmother, I answered, unsure why police would be interested in our house. He flipped open his pocket notepad, Maam, is your name Lily? Yes, I said, guilt stirring in my chest though I had done nothing wrong. They were here for me? You reported a break in Friday night. Is that correct? Yes. I felt Michaels gaze turn on me. I had completely forgotten to tell him about that. Well, not exactly forgotten, I more or less decided not to tell anyone about that embarrassing episode. And you didnt get a description on the perp, correct? No. What, had they come to make me feel completely inadequate, again? Or, maybe they found a lead. Hope filled me. It would mean I wasnt crazy after all. He scratched his head as he thought for a second. How well do you know your neighbors? What? I asked, confused. I thought we were talking about the break in. Are you particularly close to any of them? he probed. I know the neighbors on either side of us, I said cautiously. That wasnt what I asked, he eyed me suspiciously. I watched as the other, more round officer circled around the side of the house. I dont understand, I admitted. Maam, were you having an affair with your neighbor, Mr. Manning? he asked bluntly. My jaw dropped, and I just stood there for a moment, feeling like I had been slapped. My first thought was to ask, are you kidding me? Then I remembered my last confrontation with Mr. Manning and the result of that attack, Michael taking care of him. I still didnt know exactly what had happened. I decided to put my blonde hair to work and played stupid. I wouldnt let them know there was ever anything between myself and Mr. Manning, even if it was an assault. Thats ridiculous, I finally said. He eyed me suspiciously for several minutes. It was obvious he thought I was lying. Then Michael piped in, Officer I think one insult is enough, dont you?

The cop looked toward Michael and immediately started to back off. Whatever he saw on Michaels face had him seriously back pedaling. He turned back to me and asked, Is this your boyfriend? Yes, I answered immediately, then stupidly wondered if that statement was indeed an accurate description of our status. Then the officer sighed and pulled a plastic baggy out of his pocket. Well, this may be a surprise to you then. He flashed some pictures before us. My jaw dropped for the second time. There were various pictures of me, in my bikini, beside the pool. Then there was more of me, wrapped in nothing but a towel, in my bedroom. I gapped at that one, wondering how that could have been taken? These were found on Mr. Mannings personal computer. There are a lot more where these came from, some of which are much morerevealing, he cleared his throat. Apparently he had quite the interest in you. Had? I asked, my stomach sinking even further. Yes, he folded the bag, and slid the pictures back into his chest pocket, He has been missing since Saturday evening. I just stood there dumbfounded. Missing, or dead? Do either of you have any idea where he may be? No, Michael said. I shook my head, unable to speak. His partner sauntered toward us and gave him a nod. Well, if you two hear of him or think of anything that may help us find him, give us a call. He handed each of us his office card and then turned on his heal, muttering something to his partner. I stood there in a paralyzed haze and watched them drive away. Michael tugged on my arm and pulled me into his chest for a hug. He breathed into my hair, Dont worry. I couldnt stop wondering what had happen to Mr. Manning. My gut told me he was dead. Michael killed him. Was the world better off for losing a pervert and rapist? Yes, but that meant I more or less had blood on my hands. I couldnt believe the next words that came out of my mouth. Where is his body? Michael didnt stiffen, or even skip a beat stroking my hair, at the overt accusation. He only let out a sigh, Youre worrying. I pulled back and looked up at him, I just had two police officers suspicious of me being involved with a dead man! I need to know what happened. I never said he was dead. Hes alive? I asked, a mixture of hope and anxiety flooding my system. I hoped I didnt have a murder staining my soul, yet I was scared that if he was still alive, he would come back for me. He just smirked. This is not funny, I gave him an impatient look. His face transformed, No, its not. He cupped my face fiercely in his palm. Lily, he sighed, Youve got to trust me here. Dont worry about it. I sank into those cavernous eyes and found a life boat I could cling to. I did trust him. Yes, he was dangerous. But I knew he wouldnt hurt me. After all, he did whatever he did to protect me.

It took the next couple days for me to feel comfortable with the whole Mr. Manning thing. I finally convinced myself that whatever was done was done and that it was done for good reason, so there was no reason to feel guilty. It worked, most of the time. Friday morning at school, we walked through the crowd while a few hopefuls said hi to Michael. I spotted Bailey grinning at me from beside Eric. She waved us over. Hey, you guys have to come to my party Saturday! Its going to be awesome! Bailey exclaimed bouncing on her toes. Is your dad gone? I asked. There was no way he would put up with a bunch of teenagers. He had his own parties on the weekends, and Bailey was typically considered in the way. Yeah, hes meeting with some hot young client in Berlin. Whatever. So, I have the place to myself the entire weekend. She looked so excited. I have the perfect outfit for both of us already picked out! She loved to play dress up with me. Im not sure if she just liked doing it because it was fun, or if she was trying to tell me I had no fashion sense. Sweet! I said, joining her excitement. Turning to Michael, I posed, Do you want to come with? He smiled down at me, If youre there, Im there.

Bailey added to Michael, Bring your bathing suit. He raised his eyebrows and gave a wry grimace, Do I have to? I laughed, Do you have a problem showing some skin? I had seen that skin and it was meant for showing. Michael had a body that every guy in the world would want to have. Maybe, he teased. I eyed him suspiciously, trying to figure out where this was coming from. He was nothing if not confident, so what was the bashful game he was playing? He grabbed my hand as the first bell rang for class, and tugged me along the hallway, successfully ending the conversation.

Chapter 20
Get your ass over here! I pulled the phone away from my ear and winced as Baileys screech and the loud music in the background blazed over the receiver. Im on the way, chill, I told her. People are already here, and you havent even gotten ready. Oops, I had forgotten about the little dress up session she had coordinated. Sorry, Ill be there in a few. I promise. Good, and bring the BF. I laughed, Bye Bailey. Chow. Michael chuckled in the drivers seat. So whats the deal with her always dressing you up like her personal Barbie doll? he asked. I guess she thinks I cant successfully do it myself. I sighed, Which is highly likely. He chuckled again. So whos going to be there? he asked curiously. Probably everyone, I assumed. Is there someone youre worried about seeing? Nope, just like to be prepared. That was strange, I thought. Prepared for what? We arrived fashionably late through the ornate gates of the Brown Estate. Like most other students at Legare Prep, Bailey lived in a luxurious mansion, only her father coveted modern architecture with plush dcor (as opposed to Roses historical and antique design). I was torn away from Michael immediately as Bailey ushered me upstairs as soon as we entered the house. She threw a cute bikini at me with a matching wrap around dress and ordered, Make it quick! I cant deal with Lacy all alone, I might drown her in the pool if you arent there to stop me. Then the world would have one less bitch, I suggested. Bailey tapped her chin with her index finger, Do you think my dad would get me off the hook? I laughed, You go entertain, I will be down in a sec to help establish peace. She modified the mission, On second thought, I will be occupying your man so no skanks start jumping his bones, a.k.a. Loose Lacy. Sounds like a plan, I agreed. I had no doubt there were hopefuls surrounding him as we spoke. I threw on the pink and blue paisley combination and checked the mirror to see if any body parts were showing that werent supposed to be. It was pretty skimpy, but I hadnt expected anything different from Bailey. She always tried to get me to show more skin. I threw up my hair at the last minute, remembering curly hair didnt bode so well when allowed to dry on its own after a dip in the pool. Then I sauntered down the oversized stairwell and out to the pool house where the party was picking up. Almost everyone from our school was there along with a few additional guys I had never met. They looked older, about college aged, likely prowling for fresh meat. I spotted the poolside bar, which, to my surprise, was run by a hired caterer. I had no idea how Bailey, a teenager, managed to hire a company to serve alcohol to underage kids. I knew her dad had no idea about this party, so I could only assume her cousin had something to do with it. Without my wing woman, I attempted to order my own drink, Something fruity please. The bartender cocked his brow line, undoubtedly humored by the inexperienced teenager in front of him, but he mixed up a red cocktail nonetheless. I sipped on it as I scoped the crowd, looking for Michael. There. Of course, he was surrounded by giggling, hair flipping girls, who reminded me of puppies stepping on each other, all trying to get to the milk. I smirked, and it dawned on me that I was comfortable with our relationship, finally being able to find the behavior amusing rather than threatening. Then Lacy sauntered toward the crowd. Well, maybe there was still one person who made my blood boil. I didnt necessarily believe Michael would leave me for her, but something about her set off warning alarms for me. Bailey thought she was the devil, and I thought she might be on to something. We seemed to be the only two people in the school who saw straight through her act, or maybe we were the only people who werent afraid to admit that. I watched as she placed a well-manicured hand on Michaels chest to get his attention. When he looked her way, she pressed herself against his

side, hiking up one leg in her stilettos, and whispered something in his ear. He looked directly at me as she spoke to him. When she pulled away, she brought her face up to his, waiting for a reply, or maybe a kiss. He said something I couldnt hear, still looking directly into my eyes from across the pool. I watched as her face flipped from flirty and sexy to pissed off and dangerous. Michael cut through the crowd and walked around the pool, never taking those deep, shadowy eyes off mine. I could feel the heat coming from Lacys glare and I refused to acknowledge her. His exotic body prowled right up to me. May I join you? he asked. I suppose, I grinned. He nodded at the bartender, A Johnny Walker Black. I had no idea what that was, but it sounded pretty badass. Instead, I finished my fruity concoction and ordered another. I was feeling tipsy as I finished my second cocktail. Per usual when I drank, I developed some sort of alter ego that was much more daring and, quite frankly, more fun. I eyed Michael as he sipped the dark drink, somehow making even that look sexy. He tilted his head to the side and slanted his eyes. I blurted out, Why do you like me? His eyebrows arched, Why wouldnt I? Im serious. He downed the rest of his drink and asked for another. I just waited patiently. Well, if you must know, its the way your eyes glitter when you are truly happy. The way you have no idea how beautiful you are. The way you care about others. He leaned closer to me. The way you laugh at a terrible joke to save someones feelings. The way you look when youre sleeping. His hand reached to my cheek and caressed as he spoke, The way your skin feels next to mine. He leaned his mouth a mere inch from mine. And the way you make my heart pound in my chest. He pulled back a little and took a long swig of his new drink, and then asked, Do you need more reasons? I shook my head and shut my dropped jaw. You talk like youve known me my whole life. He winked, Who says I havent? I laughed, I think I would remember meeting you. How could anyone forget a guy like him? Lily! Bailey skipped over toward us and gave me one of her Im getting pretty drunk hugs. Hi honey, I patted her on the back. You have to come with, I challenged Lacy to a chicken fight, she explained excitedly, clapping her hands. You what? I asked to make sure I heard her right. You challenged her to a chicken fight? Like the ones we used to have in middle school, with the shoulders and pushing and all? Yep. She was clearly pumped for the fight, her large, brown eyes glittering. Oh no! I said, knowing that could only end badly. Oh its on. She called me a dumpster diver right in front of Eric. Oh no, I said, more sympathetic this time. When is this supposed to go down? Right now. She swiped a random shot from the bar top and tipped her head back. If I lose, can you take her down? she asked, completely serious. I looked into her desperate eyes and forced a smile, Of course, sweetie She gave me another hug, this time much tighter. She was scared yet determined as she walked back toward the pool to a cheering crowd (waiting to see some cat fighting and hair-pulling action). I looked at Michael, who was barely suppressing a smile, What did I just get myself into? He chuckled, You know you arent a fighter. I know, but how could I not help my best friend? You saw the hopeful look in her eyes. Besides, Im sick of Lacy torturing her, I said with genuine conviction. Michael let out a dramatic sigh, You stay out of it. I will help her. I didnt know what he meant by help her, but I was completely confident in his abilities. I watched helplessly as Bailey waded into the pool next to Eric, who I was glad to see was by her side through this disaster. Lacy, on the other hand, was looking around, sizing up guys to pick for her support. She spotted Michael walking toward the pool and smiled. My heart sped up. I hoped this

wasnt his plan. I mean, it would work, he could just drop her off his shoulders, but I didnt like the idea of her on his shoulders. Any takers to be my base? she asked directly to him. Several guys piped up, offering their services. She remained intent on Michael. Then he looked directly at her and smiled. She returned it and sashayed her way toward him. She looked completely elated, triumph smearing her face. Then he bent down, leaned toward her face and simply said, No. What? she asked, batting her lashes. His face turned hard, a spike of the dangerous look he had thrown at Jason. He repeated, No. Everyone around the pool stopped talking at once, a pin drop could have been heard. He continued, I am not interested in being anything for you. She puffed up, her face becoming ugly with fury. Then she smoothed it out as best she could and flipped her hair in his face as she turned around and randomly selected one of the guys vying for her attention. That made my night. No, that made my entire senior year. Unfortunately, the insult was over too soon, and I had to deal with Baileys potential catastrophe of a chicken fight. Eric and some sophomore sunk under water as the two girls mounted their shoulders. I couldnt believe they were actually going through with it. I hadnt seen a chicken fight since the summer before seventh grade, and I had never seen one that wasnt just for fun. In reality, Baileys reputation potentially rested on this silly fight and I had promised to avenge her if she lost. I bit my lip and tried not to fidget as the kid playing referee announced the rules. Best two out of three rounds. Anything goes! he yelled. The crowd hooted for the potential bikini ripping to come. Relax, she will be fine, Michael whispered in my ear. How can you be so sure of that? Trust me, he urged. Three, two, one! the announcer called, causing the crowd to go crazy with cheers and taunts. Eric and the other kid marched toward each other, bringing the girls together. Lacys claws were up and hooked, ready for some scratching action. Bailey looked completely intent on winning the fight. She would do whatever she had to do to bring down the bitch that had tortured her since kindergarten. Bailey went in for the first push and caught some of Lacys pink nails. The boys repositioned as the girls shoved and twisted arms trying to bring the other down. I heard several people yelling, Pull her hair! and Take off her top! I gasped and covered my mouth in fear for my friend as Lacy grabbed a handful of hair and tugged hard. Eric took a few steps back and steadied her. They went at it again, and Bailey grabbed a chunk of her hair this time causing Lacy to scream in pain and topple off the shoulders of her admirer. Yes! I caught myself cheering. Round two began with Lacy wearing the psychotic face that only Bailey and I seemed to notice. They went at it this time, tossing in insults. I heard several bitches and even some whores while fists entered the battle. Lacy took a swing at Bailey who somehow managed to miss the blow. Even Bailey looked surprised. She quickly regained her composure though and swung a perfectly formed uppercut punch right into Lacys down turned head. I heard the crack of Lacys nose breaking over the cheers of drunk kids. Lacys head flipped back, and she tumbled off her supporters shoulders again. I jumped up, Yes! Thats two! I ran over to the edge and jumped into the pool to congratulate my best friend. She looked shocked. Her eyes were wide as she met mine and said, I did it. It was more of a question than a statement. You did it! You took that bitch down, I told her. She slumped off Erics shoulders and splashed around like a kid. I really did it! You did it! I affirmed. Then we both looked over to where Lacy was being supported by three underclassmen, still desperate for her attention. Her nose was bleeding profusely, and her eye looked to be swelling rapidly. I couldnt help the triumphant smile that lit my face. It was about time Lacy was knocked down a notch, even if it would only last for a week or so. Bailey wallowed in her victory, Great, now the water is ruined. Get that nastiness out of my pool. When we were back on the patio, she received high fives and congrats from several people who wouldnt be brave enough to do so if Lacy were still standing there. As soon as we were left alone for a second, she turned to me, Oh my god, can you believe it? I know! I said.

It was like something took control of me. I mean, I felt like I was watching myself fight her. Hey, maybe I was born to do this, you know? Like how some people figure out what abilities they have in a dangerous situation, she mused. Maybe, I laughed. Michael stood beside me quietly. I knew the thought was ridiculous, but I couldnt help but wonder if Michael had something to do with her success. I eyed him suspiciously. What? he asked amused. You tell me. He gave me a sexy, dimpled smile and offered me his hand. Lets take a walk. He nodded toward the manicured lawn. I matched his stride and patiently waited, hoping he would spill the big secret I knew he was keeping. We crossed the back lawn and rounded the side of the house. He stopped at a wooden swing for two, situated between two roman fountains. We swung there in silence for a long time. I watched from the corner of my eye as Michael twisted his hands nervously, a muscle moving in his jaw. I had a feeling he may never get the nerve to tell me if I didnt help him. Did you help Bailey back there? I asked. Yes, he said. I waited for more. When I got nothing, I continued with the questioning, making a mental list of all the strange things that had happened lately. Did you paint those pictures in class? Not with my hands, he admitted. Did you know I dreamed of that garden? Yes. Oh god, you arent a mind reader are you? I asked, stomach sinking. If he knew what I was thinking about him even half of the time, I would die right there. He chuckled, No. Good, I sighed. He looked very curious about that, but a few seconds later, decided to let it go. Did you kill Mr. Manning? Yes. He watched my reaction and then asked, Arent you going to run screaming? How did you paint the picture? I asked, not leaving him the option of answering yes or no. With my mind. Is that how you helped Bailey? Yes. Is that how you killed Mr. Manning? No. That I did with my hands, he said matter-of-factly. Nothing about his demeanor suggested he felt any sort of guilty or remorse over the act. I thought of all the information he had given me. I finally had answers, or did I? He answered all my questions, yet I still felt like I was missing something. So, let me get this straight. You can do things using only your mind, you somehow know what I dream, and you kill people. Yes, he admitted. So then that makes you a I probed. He didnt fill in the blank, so I attempted to. A psychic serial killer? He chuckled again, I suppose you could say that. Do you kill innocent people? I asked. No, never, he said in all seriousness. I felt my shoulders relax some upon hearing he didnt kill just for the kill. I really didnt want to be in love with a psychopath. So, can you do anything with your mind?

Mostly, he confirmed. Can you I looked around for something to use to put him to the test. I was always a need proof kind of girl. A sudden breeze swept through the lawn and sent chills over my still wet skin. Can you make a towel appear? He smiled, and I felt a towel immediately drape over my shoulders. I grabbed each end of it, staring at the white cloth, unable to believe what I was seeing and feeling. Anything else? he asked. My mind was reeling with possibilities. Ice cream, I blurted out. Ice cream? I thought you were cold? he looked amused. Its the first thing that popped into my head, I said, eyes wide with amazement. Your wish, he cupped his hand and a small cup of strawberry ice cream appeared. I brought my hands to my mouth, This is impossible! He grinned and scooped a spoon full of ice cream, then handed me the spoon. This is my favorite, I said. I know, he said. I ate a few more spoonfuls until I decided I really was too cold for it at the moment. Michael somehow made the entire thing vanish as quickly as he made it appear. Lily, this isnt something you can tell anyone, he warned, turning serious again. I wont. I hadnt even thought about it. It was obvious he wanted to keep his talents a secret. I promise. He grabbed both of my hands and brought them to his mouth, leaving a soft kiss on each. The look on his face was of pure relief. I realized then that he really thought I would leave him when I found out that he could do extraordinary things. I solidified my stance by planting a kiss on his incredibly delicious lips. He responded with a kiss so loaded it felt like it had been held back for centuries. If I hadnt already loved him, I would have fallen right then and there. The make out session lasted for an hour, two hours, a week, a century; hell anytime I was with him, time became relative and somehow irrelevant. I really didnt want to crash the moment, but I was afraid I would humiliate myself if I waited any longer to use the restroom. I excused myself and told him I would be right back. He walked me to the pool house and then veered toward the bar as I went inside. It wasnt as packed as the patio or the Jacuzzi, but I had to weave in and out of people nonetheless until I reached the bathroom. It was worse than I feared. I crammed into the vanity and seating area and waited in line for the one stall to become available. We might be here awhile, Lizzy, a girl from my history class mouthed at me. Yeah, it looks like fresh meat over there had too much to drink, Another senior said, not at all attempting politeness. The confirming vomit ensued not a second later, sounding like someone poured a can of stewed beef down the toilet. I choked back bile in my mouth and covered my nose, not wanting to smell whatever she had for dinner. Youve got to be kidding me! Alicia barked at the stall door. We all stood there crammed into the vanity area for at least ten more minutes as someone finally helped the drunk girl, pulling her out of the stall and cleaning her up. Does she have a ride home? I asked. Yeah, Ill take her, the girl helping responded, looking embarrassed for her friend. Finally! Alicia cut everyone else in line and used the bathroom next. Does anyone smell something burning? Lizzy asked. I uncovered my nose and smelled it myself. Is someone smoking? I asked. I saw a bunch of heads shake. The two girls left the bathroom, one slumped against the others shoulders. When the door opened, thick rolls of black smoke poured into the room. I heard a few screams around me, someone shoved into my side, and then I heard my mom She was screaming for me to run, to get out of the house. I was back in my parents house, trying desperately to lift the heavy board that pinned my mother to the floor. I could hardly see anything, and my lungs stung with thick ash, making my every breath come out as a choke. She was crying, begging me to save myself. I didnt listen. How could I? My mom was alive, and I wasnt leaving her inside a burning house. My heart was pounding in my ears and adrenaline was racing through my veinsuntil the smoke took over. I fought the blackness with every ounce of strength I had in me, but it wasnt enough. I lost the battle. And I lost my parents.

I felt strong arms scoop me up and press me into a hard chest. As the man moved through the house, I felt the heat of the fire licking my skin and choked on the smoky air. Fresh air hit my face like a cold rag. It felt nice to have the heat replaced by coolness, but I was still suffocating. I felt my body being placed on something soft, and I tried to open my eyes. Blurry shapes of people running around franticly had my mind reeling back to reality. I wasnt at my old house. I was at Baileys party. I should have known. I never tried to save my parents from the fire, I was peacefully oblivious, deep in sleep, while they burned alive. I tried to sit up. Two warm hands eased me back down. Its okay, youre okay. It was Michael. I blinked several times more to try to clear the funk from my eyes. I was able to make out his face close up. He brushed my hair out of my eyes and kissed my forehead. Youre okay, he repeated. Wait, I had a sudden realization. You pulled me out of the pool house? Yes, he affirmed. What about the others? I asked. What? he looked confused. There were others inside! We have to help them. I tried to sit up again, and he pushed me back down, this time more sternly. Lily he trailed off, not saying what was written on his face. Why would he not want to save the others? He had special abilities that I knew would help. Michael, please, I pleaded with him. Please help them if you can. He gave me a long hard look and then grimaced. Dont move! he warned then took off in the direction of the blazing pool house. I sat up against his orders, still choking on every other breath. I watched with every nerve in my body on edge as he surfaced carrying two bodies, one over each shoulder. When he placed those limp bodies on the grass, he went back for more. I heard the sound of heavy wood falling inside and screamed. The building was collapsing with him inside. Then I saw him surface once more with two more bodies. He did that three more times until he finally came out with one large form slumped over his shoulder. He then returned to me without giving them another thought. His clothes were tattered and his shirt was almost gone, only a few shreds of cloth remained unburned. But his skin was perfectly smooth, not a burn on him. He scooped me up and whispered in my ear, We have to get out of here. There was urgency in his voice that I didnt comprehend. Shouldnt we stay to help the others? I heard the fire trucks approaching. Bailey? I asked, needing to know she was okay. She wasnt inside. Shes fine. I just nodded, giving up the fight and sinking into his arms. I felt very strange then, like the air around me was moving a thousand miles per hour, yet none touched my skin. My stomach flipped, and my head swam instantly. When I opened my eyes again, we were in my bedroom. I gasped, the quick breath causing me to choke again. You need to lay down. Your lungs will clear with some time. Here, he set me in the bed and grabbed an extra blanket from the rocking chair. I snuggled underneath it and lay back with him, still disoriented from everything that happened. How did we get here? I asked. Wondering if I had mistaken some smoke induced hallucination for the car ride home. Just relax, I will explain everything after you rest. He looked like a worried mother bear over her cub. Whether I wanted to relax or not, I did. He began to continually stroke my hair and hum a beautiful melody in that deep voice of his. I drifted into what I could only describe as a coma without any dreaming.

Chapter 21
I woke in the warmth of Michaels arms. A smile immediately crossed my face as it registered that he had spent the entire night. Never before had he stayed until I woke the next morning. It felt incredibly natural. My heart nearly exploded with love. Did you sleep well? he asked, sounding wide awake. His breath in my hair sent shivers down my spine. Yes, can you stay every night? I rolled into his chest and snuggled in tighter. His chest jerked with his chuckle, and then he planted a kiss on my forehead. I was worried about you last night. Last night? The previous nights events slammed back into my mind, jerking me fully awake. Oh god. I need to call Bailey. I scrambled across my bed and grappled random objects on my nightstand until I found my phone. Shes okay, he told me, placing a hand on my back. How do you know? I asked. Then I remembered his strange, super abilities. Maybe he did know. He just grinned. I still need to talk to her, I insisted. Her cell phone rang three times before someone picked up. Hello? an unfamiliar voice asked. Hello, may I speak with Bailey please? Im sorry, she is not receiving phone calls at this time, the older gentleman said very properly. It had to be the butler. I sighed, Okay thanks. He bid me farewell, and I hung up frustrated. She got her phone taken away, I explained. Which means her dad is really pissed. She may be grounded for a month this time, I sulked. He gave me a sorrowful look. Then he suggested, Can I take you to brunch? Will that cheer you up? I glanced at my phone again, Wow, I slept until ten? He chuckled again. Here, I will give you some privacy. He stood up, leaving the nest we had made in the bed. Your house keeper is here, so I will slip out and then ring the door bell in say twenty minutes? I smiled at his cunningness. I had no idea how he managed to slip in and out of the house undetected, but kudos to him for being so slick, it made up for my lack thereof. Then he did something I will never forget. He winked at me and then vanished. He disappeared right before my very eyes. One second he was standing in my bedroom with his exotically sexy form, smiling at me, and the next second he was gone. There was no sign or trace of him whatsoever. It was impossible. Surely that defied all laws of physics. He was so going to have to explain how he did that. A memory of last night tickled my mind, the one where he and I were magically in my bedroom a second after I felt that strange, dry-wind feeling by the pool. Did he vanish with me? That would be awesome. My mind raced with what else he may be able to do.

As soon as we were seated at the quaint little caf named Toast and ordered our food, I grilled him about the vanishing act. So how did you do that? Do what? he asked, unable to hide his humored smile. You know what I mean. I looked around us, making sure no one was listening before I spoke again. You disappeared into thin air, I said, noting how ridiculous the words sounded. Where did you go? I asked eagerly. To get my car, he said matter-of-factly. You went to Baileys? Yes. How? I asked, no longer caring that I looked like an owl, in my amazement. It was unbelievable, and I needed answers. He laughed, Its called Porting. Its very similar to what you have been taught about teleporting. Its traveling from one place to the next using the mind.

You say that like its nothing special. Its just one of many ways of traveling. You can drive, fly, walk, run, port Is that how we got home last night? I blurted out. You remember that? he looked surprised. Parts of it, I admitted. I didnt mean to scare you. I just wanted to get you home. Thank you by the way, for saving my life. I didnt think I would have gotten out of the pool house if he hadnt come to rescue me. He reached up and caressed my cheek, Dont mention it. Then he tilted his head to the side, You dont wear the necklace. There was hurt in his eyes. Oh, my hand went to my neck of its own accord. I havent had anywhere to wear it. There doesnt need to be a special occasion. I wish you would wear it all the time, he said, absently stirring his coffee. My heart ached at hurting his feelings. Its just so beautiful, I thought I could only wear it somewhere fancy. He nodded, appearing deep in thought. I could have it made into a ring or a bracelet if you would prefer. No, I stumbled over my words. I--Its perfect, I will wear it more, I promise. His entire demeanor lifted with that promise. His face turned from a sunken frown to a bright, heart throbbing smile. Here we are, our server placed two hot plates in front of us. We enjoyed the cheesy omelets in quiet solitude. My mind was going over all the amazing possibilities and places I could travel if I could port like he could. I had no idea what he was thinking, but he looked content, smiling at me frequently. As we walked back to the car, I asked him the question that I knew would really send my mind reeling. So, can you port anywhere? Yes, he confirmed. Can you take me with you? I asked eagerly. He chuckled, What did you have in mind? I dont know. Italy, Spain, Ireland, England. Ive always wanted to see the world, but then I would have to take time off of school, and then I would have to fly and what not, but you-you can just snap your fingers and viola, youre in China. No need for passports, or even money. You could just go see the Louve for the day and be back home before anyone knows youre gone. While I was rambling on, Michael had stopped in front of a hotel. I spun around to see what was so interesting and saw him glued to the screen of a little black television that was set up on top of the bellhops stand. I backpedaled to stand beside him. There was a picture of a burning building and people scattered all around. A heavily made up newswoman reported, Late last night, a fire broke out at a Mount Pleasant residence, in what appears to be a large gathering of people at an event hosted by the well-known local attorney, Barry Brown. Significant damage was reported to the pool house on his residence though miraculously, no one was seriously injured. Mr. Brown would like to offer a reward to the man who courageously pulled several people out of the burning building. There seems to be no more information about the hero than his first name, Michael. Security footage taken of the residence shows the brave young man fighting through flames to rescue the unfortunate individuals inside. The footage changed to a video of Michael, carrying two bodies through the smoke, laying them on the ground and then turning toward the building again. It stopped as the news woman asked for more information from viewers about the mysterious hero. I leaned closer to the screen and saw that a large part of Michaels back was visible through his tattered shirt. I tried to make out the pattern of black lines that curved diagonally down his back. Is that a tattoo? I asked curiously. Lets go, he ordered. The tone of his voice sent chills down my spine. He was angry. I spun around, a little shocked at the abrupt change in mood, and met the darkest eyes I had ever seen. He looked everywhere but at me. I opened my mouth to ask what was wrong and then thought better of it. He looked on the verge of snapping. Lets go, he repeated. Without arguing, I slid into his Porsche and stayed quiet until we got to the house. The walk up to the porch was unnerving. There was an electric current in the air, and not the kind I so craved when he was near. I noticed he hesitated at the front door, not wanting to come inside. I didnt know

what to say or what to do. He broke the silence. I have to go. His voice was laced with a tortured fury I couldnt understand. Okay Im so sorry Lily, he managed to sound sincere even through the seething expression, jaw clenched, eyes hard. For how long? I asked, fearing he would say more than a few hours. It has to be this way. What? What has to be this way? I asked, feeling desperate, bile rising in my throat. He gave me a long, hard look and aggressively cupped my face. He brought his lips down on mine, hard, with a fierce intensity. It didnt hurt, but it did scare me. Something was wrong. Something was happening, and I didnt understand it. I couldnt stop it. He pulled away from me savagely and gave me a heart retching look. Then he turned on his heel and began to walk away. I grabbed his arm and stopped his stride. Wait. Youre leaving? My mind was racing. Because people think youre a hero? That doesnt make any sense. What is going on Michael? I demanded. He gave me an apologetic look and grimaced. Then he disappeared right before me. My hand closed on thin air. I starred at the hand that was holding his arm. It was completely empty, yet I still felt the tingling sensation from his touch. What was going on? What just happened? Was that goodbye for a while or forever? Panic crept over me, making my heart ache and my breath quicken. He left me. He really left me. He was gone. And a sinking feeling told me he wasnt coming back.

Chapter 22
Monday morning came with little sleep. My head was pounding. It was likely from the lack of food yesterday, combined with the steady stream of tears. I still had the same gloomy feeling I harbored since Michael left. There was an empty pit in my stomach that ached knowing it was never going to be filled. I tried to pick myself up and go to school, pretending like nothing was wrong, pretending like my heart wasnt shattered in a million pieces. But I couldnt. For the first time since I started Legare Prep, I couldnt get out of bed. I couldnt make myself put on a happy face for anyone. I turned my alarm clock off and rolled over, coving every inch of my body and head with blankets. I didnt want to see anyone. I wanted to stay in that wrapped up state, hidden from the world, until I woke from the nightmare of Michael leaving. Except I never woke up. Tuesday I made myself go to school, mostly because Rose was due to come home and would freak out if she saw me like this. It wasnt easy pretending like nothing changed. Though it did help that Bailey was moping around a bit as well. Turns out her dad did flip out. According to Bailey, she was grounded indefinitely, and had no idea when she would get her phone privileges returned. I see he covered up that a bunch of teens were drinking at his house, I recalled the news clip I saw as we walked into the dining hall for lunch. Yeah, you know him. Always looking out for numero uno. Bailey was too bummed out about her ordeal to even realize Michael was missing. I was glad not to have to try to answer questions about where he went and why. I honestly had no answer for either. I was pissed; however, to hear that Mr. Brown was only using the reward for the hero as a publicity stunt. As far as I was concerned, that publicity exploit was what drove Michael away. By Friday, I still hadnt gotten used to the absence of Michael. Every class, every day after school, and every night felt terribly lonely without his constant presence, without those warm arms wrapped around me. It was the end of October, and everyone was buzzing with the excitement of Halloween. It was tomorrow night, and Erics parents had rented a club for all his friends to party. I cant believe I am going to miss this, Bailey literally stomped her foot like a child in a tantrum. I bet anything Lacy will be there! Eric wants you, not her, I tried to comfort her. She shrugged and continued to complain throughout lunch. I heard others around us talking about what costumes they were going to wear. And I already got our costumes! Bailey swore as she tossed her lunch in the trash, not even half eaten. You did? I asked, not sure why that surprised me. Yeah, and now they will have to wait another year! she pouted. Hey, cheer up beautiful, Eric picked up pace with us. She turned her pout on him. Who says you cant come? he asked with a mischievous grin. I figured out how to spring you Saturday night. She perked up. Really? she breathed. Yep. As long as youre willing to risk it. He grinned, knowing full-well she responded to danger. Im in, she squealed. Not even hearing out the escape plan. Lil, you have to come. What? I was caught off guard. I had no intention of going anywhere since Bailey had been grounded, and therefore by default so had I. See ya, Eric winked as he turned down the Science wing. Lily, please! she begged. This may be my only chance to break out of prison. It will be so much fun. Besides, you need this! I need this? Since when was this about me? Dont think I havent noticed you moping around because Michael is gone. I gave her a sardonic grimace. I didnt think you noticed. I know you Lily, which means I know when you dont want to talk about something. I smiled genuinely this time. She was a really great friend. I dont know if I feel like going out to be honest.

It will help, she insisted. Well get all dressed up, have a few drinks-maybe even enough to do a little dancing, she teased. It will be fun. Besides, I cant stand seeing you so sad. I gave my best friend a hug. Okay, I conceded before I went to my classroom. Maybe a little distraction would help. Anything has to be better than wallowing in depression, right?

I received a package from Bailey Saturday afternoon. Much to my chagrin, I found a very small fairy costume inside. It was blue, with a halter-top, a barely there chiffon skirt, and some ridiculous head piece that I was most definitely not going to wear. At least she didnt include some sparkly wand I was supposed to carry. I put the costume on that evening and tried to apply makeup that went with the fantasy outfit yet didnt look incredibly tacky, which turned out to be impossible. Embarrassed in my get up, I tried to slip out the front door without anyone seeing me. I had already told Rose where I was going so she wouldnt worry. When I reached the front door, I heard the rash, smokers voice and smelled the clove cigarettes of Mrs. Stewart, Roses best friend. Love the outfit darling. Thanks, I cringed. When I turned toward her, I couldnt hide the surprise on my face. She laughed and spun around in a circle, You like? She was wearing all black, shinny leather, fitted like a glove to her entire body. Even her head was covered, only her face showed. A black velvet tail arched out from her backside. She was cat womanwith a cigarette and diamonds. Nice, I complimented. That brought the first genuine smile to my face since Michael left. Rose rounded the corner then. She beamed at me, clear approval of my costume in her expression. Then she asked what I thought of her costume. She was sporting a flappers dress and a beaded headband. Classy, I told her. Thanks dear. You be careful tonight. Are you the designated driver? No, Im taking a cab, I reassured her. I was still acutely aware that most parents would not be asking if their seventeen-year-old had proper transportation on the account of drinking too much. My life with Rose was nice, but it wasnt normal. I heard the horn honk, signaling my cab was here. I felt ridiculous prancing down the steps and into the car wearing what resembled a sleazy tooth fairy getup. The cabbie gave me a once over and grunted some sort of approval from under his baseball cap. The entire way to the bar, which was only a couple of minutes, I tried to convince myself this was a good idea. That going out, dressed up like tinker bell-turned hooker on drugs, would somehow help me forget Michael, even for a little while. I hoped it worked because the past week had been utterly miserable. He constantly dominated my thoughts throughout the day and even my dreams at night. Sometimes I felt like I was drowning in the memory of him and couldnt for the life of me remember how to swim. The club was largely hidden within a corporate center, only a few buildings past Baileys cousins bar, south of Broad Street. No one would even know it existed if they werent given the address. A slightly annoyed looking door attendant asked for my name and checked his list. He nodded me through without another word, slashing a line through my name on his list. Making my way through the dark and bumping club, I looked for Bailey, while saying hi to friends. Luckily I wasnt too far off with the skin showing quota. Most girls showed just as much in costumes from the naughty nurse to the sultry vampire. How original Lily. Did you recycle that from first grade? I heard the sneering voice of Lacy and an echo of laughter to my right. It was so typical of her. I knew this would happen no matter what I wore, so I said the first thing that came to my mind. Fuck off. I kept walking, not giving her and her group a second thought. I spotted Bailey with Eric near a keg in the corner of the club. Hey, I greeted her, Thanks for the costume. She turned a giant smile on me, You came! I said I would. And look, the outfit looks perfect on you. You too, I couldnt help but notice she had on a similar fairy outfit except hers was green. I had no doubt Lacy had used the same line on her earlier. Nice set up, I told Eric. Glad you like it. Beers over here, snacks are right over there, he pointed with his cup to the right of us. Help yourself.

I will. I grabbed a cup and helped myself to the keg. I wasnt really a beer drinker, but I wasnt going to hang here all night looking like this without some sort of tonic. I sipped the bitter drink and dropped back into the shadows on a bar stool. Listening to the local band play unique versions of popular rock groups, and helping myself to a couple more beers, I began to finally relax. Bailey and Eric had already hit the dance floor and were dancing so close, I swear if they werent wearing clothes they may actually have been having sex. I thought about sex, what it would be like. Then I thought about that night with Michael, making out in my bed. I was perfectly willing and ready to give up my virginity to him. I still wanted to. Argh. I tilted back my drink trying to wash away any thoughts of him because even the good ones were bad. He was gone. Completely aware I was showing every sign of being an alcoholic, I refilled my cup once more, not caring much about anything at the moment. Easy, I heard a smooth voice in my ear. I jerked around and glared at Jason. Can I help you? I asked, sounding much ruder than I intended or than he deserved. He put both hands up in a gesture of peace. Sorry, I said feeling bad about snapping a him. It wasnt his fault I was miserable. No problem. He eased into the seat next to mine. Are you okay? he asked. Define okay? I asked. He smiled knowingly. Wheres the boyfriend? Hes out of town, I said automatically. Are you sure? he asked. I detected a fraction of disbelief in his voice. Yes, I confirmed. When in doubt, choose an answer and stick to it. Thats funny, because I just saw him earlier, Jason eyed me intently. You saw him? I asked. Where? I could feel my mood turning to hopeful. Maybe he came back today. Actually, Ive seen him a couple times this week, here and there. My stomach sank. The flame of hopefulness died as the words soaked in. He was still here, he wasnt out of town, which meant he just didnt want to see me. I laughed at my pathetic existence and finished my drink. Well, isnt that just great, I said sliding off my bar stool. I grabbed my purse and headed for the exit. All I could think about was getting some fresh air before I fell apart in front of everyone. I pushed through the crowd waiting in line for the bathroom and then made a bee line for the door. Either I was going to get fresh air or I was going to puke, or maybe both. I hadnt realized how much I had to drink until I stood up. I wasnt necessarily drunk, but I also didnt have complete feeling in my limbs. The cool, fall air hit my face like a wave of cool water. It was a relief to be away from the crowd of happy teenagers, happy and dancing with their boyfriends. My heart squeezed on itself, and I started walking to stop from crying in public. The club was only about ten blocks from home. I decided to walk instead of calling the cab, needing to clear my head. The alcohol helped numb the pain that the high heels had caused as I tried to maneuver down the cobblestone walkways. Focusing on not crying as I walked, I realized I wasnt just sad he left me, I was mad. Maybe it was the alcohol clouding my mind, but I felt like Michael came into my life, swept me off my feet, and then dropped me like I meant nothing to him. I twisted my ankle on a hole in the walkway, and the heel on my right shoe snapped. Great! I yelled, becoming more frustrated by the minute. I picked up the little spike and threw it in the gutter, becoming increasingly more and more pissed off at the world. As I attempted to master the awkwardness of walking on one stiletto and one flat, I heard shuffling noises behind me. I peeked over my shoulder, ready to tell off any potential robber. The scowl on my face turned to shock, and then quickly to panic. Breath, just breath, I coached myself. There were two hooded figures walking toward me. They could just be two normal people dressed in costumes. It was Halloween after all. But something was off about them. Their gait was extremely exaggerated, like they were used to walking on all fours. One pointed a finger at me. The loose sleeve slid back from the its long arm, revealing a horribly large and hooked claw. Panic, I told myself. The moment I gasped, they picked up speed, making a beeline toward me. I took off running in the opposite direction. Only five steps into my sprint, I fell on the sidewalk, as my heeled shoe flew off. I ignored the burning pain of my scraped knees and hands on the rough cement and kicked off my other shoe. I jumped back up and ran, on numb legs.

I could hear the breathing and grunting of the monsters behind me. My heart raced with fear as my legs moved faster than I expected, given my state of intoxication. I could feel the air cooling the sweat on my skin as I tore down the next two blocks. I was no longer sure where I was going, all I knew was that I was getting as far away from the monsters as I could. I passed by several old buildings and houses. Eerily, no one was outside. Just a minute ago, the streets were teaming with partygoers decked out in Halloween gear, and now there was no one in sight. What the hell? This isnt happening, I told myself. I rounded the corner and then darted around another quickly. I could no longer hear the pounding of hooves, so I chanced a glance behind me. Nothing was there. I stopped running and bent over to catch my breath. Did I really lose them? Was I really that fast? It took me several minutes to quiet my breathing. Then I began to walk down the sidewalk. Every footstep was placed with care, trying to eliminate as much noise as possible. They could still be near. I passed another block without any sighting of them, so I kept going. I had a vague idea of where I was and knew what general direction I needed to go to get home. I trotted across the street, wincing as my bare feet hit every possible rock, and headed in the direction of the battery. Just as I stepped onto the other sidewalk, I heard growling from the shadows of the alley in front of me. I screamed and jumped backward, falling down for the second time and cursing the alcohol that left me handicapped. As I struggled to my feet, I felt a searing pain trace my arm as a long, yellowed claw sliced a path down the side. I ran without thought of the pain. I couldnt. I was going to die if I didnt get away from the monsters. I heard my outfit rip on the side as I tore away from a slender, cold hand. Unfortunately, I ran the opposite direction I needed to go, trying to get away from the creatures. Two more city blocks and still absolutely no one outside, but I finally realized where I was. It was the old circular church, where Michael and I sought refugee from the rain. I tore through the gate and bounded up the stairs to the church. I had no idea what the creatures were that were hunting me, but I decided the safest place from hissing, claw-clad monsters, was in a church. I jerked on the old metal door handles to no avail. It was locked. Shit. Out of options and without another thought, I ran to the back of the church, seeking somewhere to hide. I couldnt run much longer. My legs and lungs were on fire, and I was on the verge of a panic attack. To my extreme disappointment, I found an eerie old cemetery in the back, surrounded by a tall wrought iron fence. No way out. Just my luck. I had cornered myself like a rat in a cage. I heard the monsters growl, rounding the corner of the church. I instinctively ran to the back of the small graveyard and dove behind a large tombstone. I curled up on my hands and knees, closed my eyes, and focused on quieting my breathing. It sounded so loud in my ears. I knew I was going to give myself away. This isnt real, you are going to wake up any minute. I only ever dreamed of those monsters, so I had to be dreaming, right? I listened to them grunting and sleuthing around graves, tussling the fallen leaves. A cold sweat glistened on my forehead, and I felt dizzy, nausea swelling in my mouth. The rustling leaf sound inched closer until it was on the other side of my headstone. I held my breath. I was about to die. The monster was so close, I could smell the putrid, decaying flesh breath wafting over the stone barrier. I inched my way backward, thinking I could round the corner just as he rounded the opposite. I saw it in movies, though it seemed much less likely to work in real life. A leaf crunched as I moved, and my body stopped, paralyzed with fear. The monster immediately rounded the grave and met me face to face, blowing my hair back with its rancid breath. I couldnt actually see its face for the hood, but I could imagine what kind of face went with yellow-brown, six inch claws like that. I made one last ditch effort of escape and tried to run. Two hands grabbed me, claws sinking into my forearms. I screamed and kicked, tried to do anything possible to get away. It was no use. I was tossed like a rag doll into a small clearing between graves. Before I could get my bearings, I felt another slice, this one across my back. The searing pain seeped more than skin deep. Their claws had to exude some sort of poison because my back was suddenly on fire, along with my arms. They took turns slapping at me, leaving deep cuts everywhere they touched. I was bouncing around between them on the ground like a mouse being toyed with by two cats. They were shredding my skin. My back, legs, arms, face, everywhere they could claw, they did. The essence of iron filled the air as I registered how

much blood I was losing. The burn and sting of their torturous slices had me begging for death. What was taking so long? Just let it be over, please. Then I started to feel my body give up. This must be how it feels right before you die, I thought. This is why wild animals go limp when they are being killed. There was nothing I could do and my body was giving up the fight. Slice after slice kept coming until I began to see black spots. The pain of the gashes lessened as my body went into shock. Just let go, I willed myself. I wanted the painless darkness that threatened to take me away-far away from these monsters. Then death came for me. The powerful, dark figure closed in on me, midnight fabric billowing in the absence of wind. This is it, I thought; its finally over. I lay on my back, in a pool of blood, and watched the grim reaper near. Death reached out its robed hands, grasped one of the monsters by the throat, and thrust him across the graveyard. He turned to the other who was still carving my skin, and jerked him in the air by the throat. There was a gargling sound and then a wet, ripping noise. The head of the monster was ripped completely off its body. I watched the now uncloaked head roll across the graveyard. It was the half-rat, half-dog creature from my dreams. Then death turned to me. My vision was fading fast as my blood continued to seep from every part of my body, soaking into the ground around me. I willed the darkness to come, not wanting to feel what Death had in store for me. It bent to the ground, scooped my limb body in the air, and squeezed me to its chest. In my last breath, I inhaled the most delicious, exotically spicy scent in the world. The one I could never forget. It was the smell of Michael. Then I let go.

Chapter 23
The glow of candle light around a four-poster bed slowly came into focus. A large figure crossed my line of vision. Then there was a dent on the bed beside me, and a warm hand touched my stomach. I was in bed? The scent of flowers and spices filled my nostrils. I felt numb all over. Was I dead? Was this heaven? I struggled to pull my head up and glanced at my arm. Faint pink slashes covered most of what I could see. The rest of my body was tucked into a large, paisley print blanket. I know that blanket. How did I get home? A hand pushed my shoulder back carefully. Youre safe, said a strong, deep voice. It tickled my memory. I knew him. I loved him. Did he come back? My heart leapt into my throat. I heard his deep voice muttering something in a foreign language. It sounded ancient, beautiful, nothing like todays languages. Then the blackness returned. I wanted to fight it, but I was so weak. It rolled over me in a wave of heavy silence. Then I dreamed. Random images flooded my mind, all causing a confusing stir of emotions. I didnt know whether to cry, scream, or laugh. There was Michael the first time I saw him, walking powerfully and sure through the courtyard at Legare Prep. Then I saw the beautiful sapphire necklace against my pillow. That image faded into the majestically tragic garden. It was filled with so much sorrow that I cried. Next, I saw the cloaked figure on the battery and then again from my window. Then there were the monsters, tearing the flesh from my bones and death closing in on me. I cried out for help. My heart was racing and my breath was rapid as I sat up in bed. I looked around for a minute, trying to piece together what was happening. Then I felt arms wrap around me from behind. I jerked. Its okay, youre safe, Michael whispered. I turned and stared at him, unsure for a moment. Was he really there, or was I still dreaming? I reached out and touched his face. He squeezed his eyes closed. I traced the prominent lines of his cheekbones and jaw as I pieced together my thoughts. What happened? I asked, though it was the wrong question. I was able to get the what (I was attacked), it was the why that I didnt understand. He opened his eyes. They were hard, worried, and tired. You were attacked last night. I replayed the grizzly scene in my head, recalling the sharp yellow claws and heads being ripped off. I shivered. Then I stared at my arms and noticed there was no evidence of shredded skin whatsoever. Not even faint pink lines like before. Twisting my arms before me in awe, I asked, Did you do this? Did you heal my wounds? Yes, he allowed. I fell quiet again. He knew things, created something from nothing, was super strong, traveled at the speed of thought, and healed fatal wounds. What are you? He stared at me for a long time without saying a word. I knew he was contemplating telling me the truth. I know you arent human. I admitted aloud what I couldnt admit to myself before. I checked his reaction. Yep, definitely right. Nothing human could manhandle those monsters and live to tell the tale. His face drooped with sadness and he cupped my neck. I am so sorry. I never meant to bring you into any of this. What is this? He sighed. I waited for an explanation. Nothing came. Getting information from him was like pulling teeth. What were those things in the graveyard? Demons. The word hit me like a sledge hammer. I let it sink in for a minute. So, if theyre demons, then you must be I would make him say it. It seemed so ridiculous. I couldnt ask for fear of being humiliated.

He rolled his eyes, as if saying the word was a chore, Im an angel. There was a slight blush on his cheeks. I had a feeling few had ever seen Michael blush. He was an angel. I was waiting for him to say he was some sort of dark creature of the night. Angel was the last identity I would have pinned on him. But it made sense, though he wasnt at all what I would have pictured an angel looked like. In fact, he had a very dark allure about him. My mind drifted back to our day at the Gibbs museum when we saw the painting of Micahel... Michael, I said in disbelief. As in the Michael. He nodded. The Michael I made fun of at the museum? I was the one blushing now. I told you the painting wasnt accurate, was his only reply. Wow, I mulled that over for a minute. I was in love with Michael, an archangel of heaven, whatever that meant. I made a mental note to research angels, particularly this one. Not in the stalker sort of way, but I needed more answers than he would ever give. What are you doing here? Lily, he said in that tone typically reserved for toddlers who are too nave to understand what they are about to be told. Those werent just any demons. They were a particular class that doesnt normally meddle in humans affairs. So demons had classes. I added another mental note to find out what they were, and which had attacked me, though part of me would rather not know. Hiding under a rock and pretending it never happened sounded pretty good at the moment. So why did they try to kill me? A muscle worked in his jaw. I was hoping you could tell me that. Did they say anything to you? Ask strange questions? Or suggest anything to you? He must have lost his mind. Its not like there was time to chat between the beatings I was taking. I doubt those things can talk anyway. Oh, they can, he chuckled with warning more than humor. As a matter of fact, one in particular seemed quite taken with you. There was accusation in his tone. What are you talking about? Could this conversation get any stranger? I was about to pinch myself to make sure I was awake when he dropped a bomb on me. Lily, it was Jason and Derrick who attacked you last night. My mind was reeling with wonder at how on earth Jason, with his irresistibly cute dimpled grin, could turn into a monster so reproachable. But what was more, how could he try to kill me? I didnt think I held any real feeling past a crush for Jason, but I was surprised to find I was hurt, truly hurt, that he was the one who attacked me. My mind continued to put the puzzle pieces together. He also had to be the one who haunted my nightmares, broke into my house, maybe even burned Baileys pool house, and then chased me around town until he ripped my body to shreds. His brother was believable, that creepy voyeuristic kid who made my skin crawl. But not Jason. Im sorry Lily. I looked up at Michael. He smiled a sad smile and grabbed my hand. In a low voice, he said, I need to know if they said anything to you. About why they were here, and what they want with you. I tried to recall every conversation I had with Jason, since I never actually spoke to his brother. Were they even brothers or was that a lie too? I shook my head. He never told me why they were here. There was a rumor about being kicked out of their last school, but I dont know anything else about why they came here. I thought Jason was just a guy who liked me. There was shame in my voice that I couldnt hide. I hated that another guy, demon or not, would be added to the very long list of those who are no longer eligible. Except the guy in front of me. Wait, was he only protecting me? Was this a job for him? Oh god. My heart sank into the pit of my stomach. I will find out what they wanted from you, he swore. There was danger in his tone. Jason did say something strange to me a few days ago. I recalled running into him at the bar. Michael arched his brows. He told me to stay with you. Michaels face showed clear incomprehension. What? I know, I thought it was odd too. He said it was because you could protect me. Hmm, Michael rubbed his jaw, his eyes slanted in thought. That is strange. So, how did you know I was there tonighter last night? The question seemed to catch him off guard, pulling him out of a deep thought. I came to the bell tower to clear my head, and I sensed you were

near. Oh. I deflated a little. I guess some part of me hoped he was secretly protecting me from the shadows. Though if you were wearing your necklace, I would have known the moment you were in danger. I got lucky running into you last night. The necklace? I automatically touched my bare neck. Yes, which is why I really wish you would wear it. I had promised him I would. Sorry, it didnt really go with my Halloween costume. Not to mention a robber would slit my throat in a dark alley for that piece. He smiled wryly, I can turn it into a pocket watch or a key chain if you will keep it with you. The thought of destroying the necklace was absurd. Did you kill them? I still couldnt think of Jason as a demon. Derrick, definitely. Not exactly, theyre immortal. Will they come back? No. The emphasis he placed on the word gave me chills. But you do kill people. I was thinking of my perverted neighbor who met an end that I would likely never know about. Arent angels supposed to be good? The question felt stupid and nave on my tongue. I kill people who deserve it, he corrected. And I do it to keep others safe. Its for the greater good. I pondered that for a moment. Then asked, If you are an angel, then where are your wings? He chuckled and stood up. Will you believe me if I show you my markings? Markings? Sure. I sat up curious. He pulled off his shirt and spun around. I marveled at his perfectly tanned, muscular body. Then I saw what was on his back. Thats what I saw in the video, I recalled. The tattoo markings I barely made out in the news coverage were now in full form. There were two giant black wings tattooed onto his back. They were beautiful and terrifying at the same time. That had to be painful. So, angels have tattoo wings, not actual wings? I asked, sounding more condescending than I intended. His expression turned challenging. Come here, he reached out his hand. I hopped off the bed and slid my hands into his. He pressed his lips to mine with an intensity that rocked me off balance. I felt that familiar electricity race through me again. I sighed when he pulled back too soon, wishing I could kiss him forever. Then I gasped. Two enormous feathered wings rose from behind him. They were jet black, powerful and proud. I heard a chuckle from Michael. Do you believe me now? I was speechless. I reached beside him and touched the feathers timidly. They ruffled under my fingers and then the entire wing curved around me, caressing my body in an embrace. This is amazing. It was an understatement, but I had nothing else to describe what was happening. The dark wings wrapped around my shoulders like a large cloak. Thats when it hit me. The cloaked manwas Michael. Why would you try to scare me? I asked accusingly. What? he looked genuinely confused. Youre the cloaked man I keep seeing arent you? Oh, he looked guilty. Why would you do that to me? Lily, I never meant to scare you. I was trying to protect you. You were surrounded by demons. I wanted to send a message to them, yet I didnt want you to see my face, so I hid it. Surrounded by demons? I asked hesitantly. I didnt want to drown the moment with more bad news.

Yes, I only showed myself when there was a demon around you, he explained. I thought about that, trying to replay in my mind every time I saw the cloaked figure. The first time, I was on the battery with Jason, and then again in my house with Jasonand on it went. I felt like a blind fold had been removed and my entire life was a lie. Just then, Michael pulled me even closer, using his velvet wings, and grazed his lips over mine, Where were we? Our mouths moved together in a dance that had to make the heavens jealous. It was beautiful, delicious, and completely intoxicating. I felt my knees become weak and a downy wing tilt me back onto the bed. Michael hovered over my face, his affect intense, and his eyes blazing. I love you. Our lips met again, driving home the meaning of those simple yet powerful words. I thought my chest would burst with the love we shared. I dont know how I knew, but deep in my soul, I was sure that Michael and I had a love that would defy the test of time. Because if my dreams were any indication of the past, then it already has.

Epilogue
Michael I lean against the end of the pier, watching the sun rise and waiting for my brother in arms. He says he has information about Lily. My hands clench and unclench, crumbling the wooden railing. My mind returns to the last night I was here. Lily was in my arms, safe and sound, and then a demon approached from the rear. I spun to destroy the idiot who thought to sneak up on me. Then she screamed, and before I could catch her, a shadow demon pulled her over, then disappeared like a coward. Im antsy to return to her now. I hate leaving her alone. At least she is wearing the necklace now, which adds some amount of reassurance that shes okay. My stomach rolls in circles. I am eager to find out if the Fallen know who they are messing with. How could they not? What are the odds they would target her? Brother, Gabriels voice precedes his apparition. You have news? Im too eager to bother with greetings. Gabriel crooks one side of his mouth in a rueful smile, I do, but you wont like it. Tell me. He walks up next to me and leans both elbows on the railing, peering out over the open ocean. My sources tell me the inner circle of the Fallen are quiet hushed about it all, but they have been calling her their Holy Grail. I mull over this for a minute. The comparison of Lily and the Holy Grail makes no sense. Gabriel produces a hand full of bread crumbs and tosses a few into the air. A seagull swoops to catch one. I was hoping you could shed light on that one for me. I just shake my head. Do you have any theories? None, Gabriel tosses a few more pieces, enticing three more seagulls. Thats a first. I stare at the four birds fighting each other for each morsel of bread. Yes, and I find it quite irritating. I would normally have help in my search, but I thought you would appreciate my involving no one else. No one else can know who she is! My raised voice sends the birds fleeing. I drop my head in my hands. Please tell me you are the only one who knows. To the best of my knowledge, no one but me, you and the big guy know she exists. And Im pretty sure the latter hasnt thought about her in millennia. I stare at my brother, hating that I have to confide information about Lily in anyone else, but if I have to pick someone, he is the one. Hes always been a good friend to me. One of them told her to stay with me. Gabriels brows arch, What do you make of that? Im afraid they know more about who she is than I realized. But they cant possibly know the whole truth. Perhaps I was clumsy and they caught me watching over her. Gabriel let out a long sigh, I hate to be the devils advocate wait, thats not at all true- but you were told to stay away from her. I know! I throw my hands in the air, frustrated beyond belief. Gabriel waits for me to calm. Ill continue to look for answers. In the meantime, I suggest you lay low, because if they do in fact know she is forbidden to you, they could expose you together, and we both know what that means. The suggestion hangs heavy in the air between us, then Gabriel disappears. I take a long, slow breath. How do I protect my soul mate if shes forbidden to me? Lay low. I snort. Thats cowardice. As the leader of Gods army, I never hide from anything. But for one blue-eyed blonde, Ill do anything...