《Flower Fit for a Vampire》


 Prologue

    Never had Genevieve loved the thought of blood before know. Her mind, that was once free of woes, was consumed with a confused hunger that she had no idea how to fulfill. Her mind trembled with a piercing ringing as if she were standing in the middle of a bell as it was dung. She ground her pearly-white teeth at the aching rumbling through her bones, sending an electrical jolt through her being. Her gums started to burn like they were on fire, yet Genevieve knew that was impossible.


    Seconds ago, she was fine. Utterly fine¡ªso fine that she could have slept the rest of the night away. Now, however, she felt like she would never endure this pain long enough to see the sunlight. When she tried to focus her chaotic mind elsewhere, something would always remind her of fresh, crimson blood.


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    Like when she thought about the glass of water on her nightstand. When she looked at the glass, all Genevieve saw was her shattering that glass and cutting herself with it. When she thought of her loving, gregarious mother she thought of wringing her wrist of blood.


    Genevieve felt irrevocably mad. Not the angry kind of mad, the crazy, aloof and psychotic kind of mad. She could see nothing but disorientated silhouettes of things in her room, and her vision was switching from her normal, colorful vision to a rather dark black and white vision.


    It was killing her.

 Hypnotizing Rose

    IT WAS THE MIDDLE OF OCTOBER. The air, as those in the northern part of the united states would expect, was as chilly as ice. The wind struck west with enough of a cold current to turn the warmest house dead cold. But, that wouldn''t really bug anyone there in Montana, would it? Everyone who lives there is by now used to such chilly weathers that whenever a foreigner would complain of the chills they would just be confused. Maybe that''s where the line between me and normal, everyday Montana residents started.


    I''ve known¡ªhell, even my baby sister knows and she''s only five!¡ªthat normal just was not meant for my life''s dictionary. I know, I sound like just about every other protagonist in some slice of life film, but I wasn''t just saying things such as abnormality for kicks. I''ve never, in my entire seventeen years of life, have tried to stand out as much as I do now. It''s the exact opposite, to be precise.


    I sighed, bringing a bony arm to my face and wiping tangled bangs away from my forehead. I analyzed my arm, stating down every small detail on it. Including the bizarre-out-of-nowhere tattoo. It ran down from my mid-lower arm to the middle of my palm. The ink looked anything but fresh (which it is, by the way). I''ve seen what new tattoos looked like¡ªred, swollen and painful. Yet, here I am with a few days old tattoo that seemed to look fully healed for about a month.


    I clenched the fist holding the tattoo. How did this happen?


    TWO DAYS AGO, 1:06 A.M


    "Genevieve! How many times have I told you to take Sadie for a walk?!" The shrill sound of my mother''s tone nearly shook me from my spot at my desk. My pencil skidded across my notes and I groaned, hands on my forehead. Geez, could she do anything but yell at me. Nevertheless, I got out of my chair with a sad reluctance. In two days, I have a Trig test and God knows I need to study for it. If I don''t then I''m just setting myself up for failure.


    "Yeah, okay! Just gimme a second." I mostly mumbled that last part to myself. I think anyone with a strict mother and a good sense of danger could understand to keep snarky comments to themselves, even if said out loud. I ran to my closet and grabbed my all-time favorite candy red hoodie. It''s worn out, yes I agree, but it''s comfy and I may or may not have developed an attachment to the old piece of cloth.


    Next, I lazily slipped on a pair of slippers¡ªor, should I say mismatched since both are completely different colors, size and have different patterns. Oh well. Its not like I''m going somewhere special or anything.


    I hurried out of my small bedroom and hoped down the staircase. Literally. It was a bad habit and to me, didn''t really seem that bad since it''s only six stairs. But,I knew mom thought differently.


    As if on cue, she entered the hallway with a deep frown. "For Christ''s sake, Genevieve! If you do that one more damn time I swear this spatula will go up your¡ª" mom stopped speaking when she saw Elizabeth (my five year old bratty little sister) enter the hallway, too. "¡ªbehind..." she murmured, sad she couldn''t find a good enough word to ''protect'' young Liza''s ''innocent'' brain. Yeah, right. That devil was as knowledgeable as anyone in this house.


    Liza tisked and waved a finger at mom. "Mama, that would hurt her! Don''t do that." Said the little girl, hands on her hips as if she was actually twenty-five rather than a plain five. Then, like the oldie Liza is in her soul, she looked at me with a disappointed smile.


    Do you know how sad it is to have your toddler sister be disappointed in you?


    "Sadie already has her leash on. She told me she gotta poo so bad." I cringed at her words. Liza was never one to have a filter, but then again, what five year old does? With a silly smile, I turned my head to look at mom, giving her a very needed apologetic smile.


    "Sorry, I really am. It''s just I have a test coming up and I''m already stupid enough and need to study for this thing." I smiled sadly, feeling guilty that I worked mom hard enough ti make her cuss at me. She never cusses, but when does it''s like talking to the devil.


    She held a hard gaze on me for a solid minute before breaking into a smile. "Eh, don''t worry about it. Just walk the dog and finish studying, ''kay?" She grinned again, waving me off with one of her hands. I sighed in relief, thanking God that she was in a good mood. She wasn''t a usually happy person, not that she was sad either. She''s just... herself. Strict, caring and blunt and hell. I think she''s been watching too much Hell''s Kitchen. I couldn''t watch a single episode, wayyy too much anxiety.


    I waved mom and Liza goodbye and stuck two fingers in my mouth, creating a high-pitched whistle. Sadie came running through all the rooms in the house and strait on my legs, making me stumble on my feet.


    I laughed. "Sheesh Sadie, you love me too much," I then grew into a giggling fit as she continued to attack me playfully and licked my exposed skin in affection. Deciding I stalled enough, I grabbed the dragged leash and wrapped it around my wrist tightly. Something I''ve always had to do with this damned puppy. She was a lively Golden Retriever and she really liked to chase the wild animals around here. Especially the woodland ones.


    I groaned at the mere though. Dang, I seriously hope Sadie doesn''t decide to look for wild rabbits tonight. Rabbits usually hid underneath our porch and when spotted, Sadie will literally chase the poor things into the woods. One time Sadie had jerked me with so much force into the woods I fell in a ditch and sprained both my ankles. The pain was unimaginable.


    I walked towards the front door and into the dark of the night. Or, for lack of better words, dead of the night. Montana isn''t a highly populated state and our town was definitely not a very populated town. To prove my point, I could name everyone''s face if forced too. It''s that small.


    Sadie was trying to break free from the leash and run off. Already?! I thought to myself in astonishment. Well, not exactly astonishment but you get the idea.


    "No, bad girl. You''re gonna stay with me tonight. Too tired to run..." I groaned, now walking alongside the road sluggishly. If someone were to see me right now, they''d think I''m either seriously hating my life or a zombie. I would think both.


    The wind whistled in my ear, making me wince at the sheer sound of it. I hate the sound of wind. I don''t know why, but something about the sound wind makes just makes my toes curl in disgust and ears almost bleed. So, I quietly thanked the Lord that I managed to remember to snag my phone and earbuds. I always brought my phone with me, no matter what and no matter where. To the store? Yep. My granny''s house with absolutely no service or WiFi? Mhmm. To the bathroom? You bet your ass.


    I pulled my phone and earbuds out and went to my music and clicked shuffle. Even though I want to listen to a specific song I''d still always press shuffle and hope that its first on the list. Although, that never really happens. I made sure to keep the volume as low as possible in case anything unordinary happened. Which, by the way, is highly doubtful. Nothing ever happens here in Sidney. That was a given.


    I grinned to myself, enjoying my music and this nice, chilly walk. Thinking about it now, I guess I kind of did need something like this. For the last week I''ve been studying relentlessly and giving me no time to myself. A break felt nice, heavenly even.


    Nothing gets better than a walk down your street at night. Nothing.


    The wind grew colder and colder as minutes passed and I''m actually glad that I brought my hoodie with me this time. If not, I bet all this cold air would make me catch a cold and if that happened then I would probably miss my test and¡ª


    Already thinking about it again?! Geez, my brain can''t catch a break.


    Finally, for the first time tonight, I allowed myself to be completely engrossed in my music and pay attention to nothing less and nothing more. Even though seconds passed and those seconds turned into a few minutes, I could never really have a break seeing what I noticed.


    Through The Neighbourhood''s angelic singing, I could hear Sadie start to erratically bark. I sighed for the thousandth time today. Nobody ever makes a peep before I put my earbuds in. Pulling on out of my ear and looked at Sadie, I grew confused.


    She stopped walking completely and was now... sitting? Dead center in the sidewalk, too. She had just been barking like she''d caught a cat yet now she''s like a plushie¡ªstill.


    "What''s the matter, girl?" I questioned (even though she obviously wouldn''t answer). I decided to put my earbuds and phone back in my pocket since I was starting to feel on edge now. Before, as I was listening to music, I felt utterly content. Now, seeing Sadie''s odd stance and the quietness of the night, the hairs on my neck stood.


    She never acts like this. Like... calm. She''s a puppy and never ever calms down¡ªshe doesn''t even sleep calmly. So, like ant rational person would do, I analyzed the area around me.


    Black.


    Everything is black, as it should be in the dead of the night. On the roads near my house, most of the streetlights have busted bulbs that people are too lazy to fix. There was nothing surrounding me but trees, trees and, oh, did I mention trees? Yeah, my house was in the middle of nowhere. You have to drive thirty minutes away just to go to a gas station. Yeah, no wonder nobody wanted the house. But, it was cheap and cheap to mom meant hell fucking yes. But, besides the thousands of trees there was a park to my far left. It was broken down and most likely rusted by now since absolutely no one goes there. I can''t name a single time someone has been there my entire life and that says something about that park. For one; it''s stranded in the middle of nowhere and two; it''s right next to the road. I wouldn''t take my kids there if I had any, either.


    If that''s true, then why is someone there right now?


    Standing on one of the stable swings was a figure of a person. I could tell nothing of that person. Only that they are scaring the literal shit out of me and Sadie and I need to get out of here as soon as possible. Even though those words were set in stone in my brain, my feet couldn''t bring themselves to move. I couldn''t bring myself to move. I don''t know if it''s fear or pure curiosity but whatever it is I didn''t like it.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Chills ran down my spine. A scary cold ran over my body like ice. Was it... looking at me? Maybe it''s the paranoia but I can swear that he''s looking straight at me. We are the only two people out here right now, so it could just be curious eyes?


    I shook my head. I don''t care, I thought as I shook the chills off, I''m leaving. Well, this walk sucks. Here I wanted a nice walk down the calmest road. He could be harmless but any sensible person would not approach that figure,


    I turned around on my feet and began walking back where I came from. Only to stop when I felt a tug on the leash and then pop! What the hell was that?! I looked behind me and my eyes widened.


    Sadie''s gone.


    With more anxiety than my mind needed, I looked around in a panic, looking for Sadie''s bright yellow-orange hair. I relaxed a bit when I saw her sprinting figure but panicked again when I noticed that she was heading for the most dreaded place to be in the night: the woods. If eyes could pop out of their heads mine would have right then and there.


    My voice broke out automatically. "Sadie! Come back here!" And finally, I could walk again. My legs sprinted out so fast and far ahead of me that I grew light as a feather on my feet. I''m an excellent runner (ex. track athlete here) so it wasn''t too hard to catch up to my dog, but it is hard to stay on her trail. Without realizing it, I was now within the woods and darting branch by branch and root by root.


    The already cold wind surrounding me grew colder and colder the faster I got. I was stepping in mud and puddles but I could care less as the only thought coursing through my brain was Sadie. I have to find Sadie, catch her. I''ll take all night if I have too; I love that puppy with my whole being.


    "Sadie! Girl, where are you?!" Yes, I lost her. One second she was there in front of me and the next completely gone like dust in the wind. I felt like crying. These woods are humongous and go one for hours on end. There was no way a human could possible chase after a hyperactive dog. I was at an end. "Sadie!"


    I groaned loudly, brushing the hair out of my face to see where I was going more clearly. The woods slowly grew darker and darker the longer I lingered here and suddenly I felt as if I was inside a black void of nothingness. Owls of the trees hooted and crickets chirped. I, however, was panting and now leaning against a tree to catch my breath.


    All those years of track and I still have bad stamina.


    I cried out loud, hitting the tree with the palms of my hands. Through my small weeps and whimpers of worry and sadness, a crack of hope sounded through the night. Sadie''s'' bark. I whipped my head upwards instantly and looked towards the direction the bark came from and was back on my feet in seconds. Skinny branches scratched by arms and legs as I ran. My hair got caught a couple of times but I couldn''t stop running. Hope flooded me when she barked again and I knew I was close.


    As soon as another bark came I saw Sadie''s standout-ish yellow hair. I leaped faster than I had been and took the puppy into my cold arms. She started to love up against me as always and I was filled with happiness that there seemed to be nothing wrong with her. Patting down her matted hair, I was practically wailing in happiness. I thought she was gone for sure.


    I pointed an accusing finger at her face, my own face firm. "Don''t ever do that again, Sadie! You scared me half to death!" I shouted, then softened my face when she stopped being playful and her ears fell down. I hate disciplining her, but if I didn''t no one would. I gave her a final pat between her ears and stood up. Not before making sure I latched the leash back on her collar. Wait a second... how did the leash even come off? It''s a tricky leash and it''s hard as hell to put on in one go.


    A question for another day I decided.


    When my eyes finally drifted away from my precious baby, I found myself frowning. Not only was I dead in the center of the woods but it''s as dark as coal out here. I could barely see the trees in this darkness¡ªoh, not to forget fog had made its way through the woods a little while ago. It''s like being in a horror movie.


    I tugged on Sadie. "C''mon girlie, time to go home." I took a big step over a log. Now would be a good idea for a flashlight. As I took my phone out I wondered how I was so stupid that I didn''t even think about using my flashlight earlier. The area around me instantly lit up Well, not as much as I would hope, but it''s better than nothing. I can finally see the silhouette of trees and bushes, so at least I can tell if a wild animal sneaks up on me. I mean, I hope so.


    Just like earlier, I felt the leash tug. I quickly snapped my head to look over at Sadie and sighed in relief as soon as my brown eyes landed on her sitting figure. Wait, sitting? Again? Why is she doing this to me tonight?! I just want to go home where it''s safe and comfy. I hate being scared (it''s the reason why I don''t watch horror movies) and going through the woods at night is definitely a horror movie scene.


    And I''m the victim.


    Oh hell no, I thought snappily, no one''s dying tonight. I''m getting out of here right now. True to my words, I decided to pick up the twenty-pound dog and dash through the woods in a straight direction. If I''m not heading in the direction of my house then at least I would hit some type of civilization, right? A road, trail, even a gas station. I have to.


    Sadie whined in my arms. I totally forgot that Sadie hates being held. She rough and likes to do things herself, and picking her up only makes her whine and kick you in the stomach with her hind legs. I waited, still running, for her to start to squirm. And she did. She kicked and wiggled out my arms and back in. I squeezed her harder, not risking letting her go and then her running off.


    "Shhh," I whispered to her, giving her some gentle pets. "It''s okay girl, you''re okay." Maybe that would help her calm down. I hope it does at the very least.


    About five minutes of running I knew I was running in the complete opposite direction that I came from. But that wouldn''t stop me from running straight. That is my most plausible way out of here. I really need to get home before mom gets worried and we have this whole missing person case going on when I just got a little lost in the woods. Actually, knowing mom, she probably already called the police. But, if I am really lost¡ªand I mean if¡ªthen maybe that would be helpful. The downside? Mom will flip her shit when the cops leave and I will never be able to leave the house at night ever again.


    Yeah, I would rather find home myself. Sadie started to squirm again. I hushed her, resettling her in my arms in a more comfortable position and looking down at her, making sure she''s okay. Maybe she just uncomf¡ªnevermind, she''s squirming still.


    "Sadie, calm down! We''re almost¡ª" the rest of my sentence never left my lips. When my head lifted up to direct myself through the rest of the woods, I was meet with an opening. A very ominous opening.


    Trees outlines the opening in a circular way, creating a big mass of flatland in midst of it. I could finally see the sky now, clear of any clouds and filled with thousands of small, sparkling stars. The moon is at its fullest point, shinning brighter than the stars could ever dream of. What caught my attention wasn''t the ethereal sky or the odd place I''ve just discovered, but rather it''s what''s dead center of the opening.


    A flower. There it stood, towering over the weeds around it and bathing in the light of the moon. My eyes felt blessed. All worries, even if just for a second, left me in that instant. Something about that flower was so beautiful that it caught me dead in my tracks in bewilderment.


    It wouldn''t hurt to look at it. And so, my left, ever so slowly, walked to the flower. I can now see the color of the flower. Or, should I say colors. It''s definitely a rose, that much I can tell of it. But I don''t ever remember reading or seeing a rose of this multitude. It''s splattered in a variety of greens, blues, pinks, reds, and purples. Just like splattering paint on a canvas.


    It''s so... pretty. I could feel the appearance of the rose pulling me in. I felt as if it was hypnotizing me with it''s bizarre appearance. But I didn''t stop moving. I walked towards the rose, pulling Sadie along with me as she complained the whole time, wanting nothing other than to leave. When I was finally in arms reach of the flower, I extended a hand to it.


    Everything following that action was a blur. A blur of colors, even. I must''ve been dizzy from all that running earlier because nothing else can explain the things that happened logically.


    The flower arched itself towards me. I don''t know if it was the wind or something, but all I knew was that the stem of the rose swayed my way. Wait, since when did roses grow not on bushes? I brushed the crazy question away when my fingertips brushed against the soft petals of the rose. I was zapped with a small current of electricity, but not enough to have me crying on the ground. Instead of wincing like any sane person would, I grinned.


    What''s wrong with me? I thought in a panic. I can''t control my body. It was like a puppeteer was controlling me¡ªtheir puppet of choice. My body won''t respond with my mind and I couldn''t find the strength to pry my mouth open. Why can''t I speak?! Why¡ª


    Sadie''s oh-so-familiar fierce barking broke my thoughts. I want to look at her, I want to see what she sees but my body keeps failing me. I keep on failing myself. I could feel my sanity slip through my fingertips through all the commotion flooding my senses.


    Sadie''s barking.


    My hand grabbing the thorny rose, bleeding.


    Whistling wind.


    Hushed whispers.


    I''m going mad. I''m dreaming; yeah that has to be it! I must have hit my head on a tree and passed out. And now I''m dreaming this all up. If so, this is the most realistic dream I''ve had in ages. Ever, actually. That mere fact makes me think that this actually isn''t a dream.


    I wanted to scream when my hand gripped the rose tighter. My blood was oozing out of my fresh cuts, shining under the moon''s light and dropping onto the forest floor. I''m bleeding too much, I noticed. This wasn''t like an ordinary cut from a few thorns but it actually looked like someone sliced my hand open with a kitchen knife. I think I''m gonna pass out...


    My mind was drifting away as my body was wide awake, grinning and happily squishing the beautiful flower to pieces. I was trying to break away from the compulsion, my brain fighting a war with my body to take control over. I can''t stop squeezing the flower, pushing the thorns deeper and deeper into my skin until I could no longer see them. I should have screamed in pain or even flinched at the feeling. Somehow, for some reason, I felt nothing. No pain, no ache and no pinch. It was like a ghost passing through me and only given chills.


    Please just wake up, I begged myself, hoping to God that this is all some crazy dream again. Even though we all know it''s very much real.


    My quiet, motionless body sudden piqued up. My body was trembling like a broken toy; muscles I didn''t even know I had jerking in every possible way. My eyes rolled in the back of my head, rendering me blind for the time being. Slowly, I could feel again. A small ounce of pain burned my hand, starting off like putting your hand under hot water but only for the said water to heat up, faster and faster, until it''s boiling.


    That''s when I could scream.


    I shrieked, my happy face suddenly distorted with boundless agony. Pain I shouldn''t be feeling by a mere thorn coursed through my body, starting with my palm and straight to my brain. It was such a sharp pain¡ªlike being burned, and electrocuted at the same exact time. Warm tears fell down my burning face, staining my shirt wet. I could barely hear Sadie''s erratic yelping through my cries. She was probably bouncing around me, scared out of her life at my sudden change in attitude.


    I stopped paying attention to anything but myself. I need to make it stop..! I can''t take this anymore, I feel like I''m going to die. That thought stayed in my head. Die... this will kill me. Fear struck me harder than ever before. My fight or flight response kicked in and I could feel myself opening my eyes again. My blurred vision focused on the rose (the source of my pain I assumed) and nearly passed out at the sight.


    The rose looked like paper. Literally. It was no longer three dimensional as it lied in the air, flat as paper. It appears to look like it was ripped right out of coloring book. I was utterly bewildered. What was more confusing and out of this world was the fact that the rose was halfway stuck to me.


    The top of the rose, with all its petals, was imprinted on my palm like a tattoo. I could clench my fist and see that the rose tattoo moved with the creases of my hand. Just like an actual tattoo would. I freaked, trying to pull my hand away from the rose. Of course, just like I anticipated, I couldn''t move. I was forced to watch the rose sink itself onto my skin. The more it soaked itself on the surface of my skin the more I sobbed. The pain was making me nauseous, making me see doubles of my hand. The world was spinning and with one final, ear-piercing screech I fell flat on the ground.


    My side hit the ground roughly, causing my head to hit the dirt so hard it edged my blacking-out on more, my vison finally fading into black nothingness. I could see nothing but I could hear everything still as I passed out.


    Sadie was barking, the wind was whistling louder that Sadie was making, my own voice was panting, and the last sound to ever enter my ears was those hushed voices again. The whispering.


    Finally, I was met with nothing and fell unconscious.

 The Hospital

    I AWOKE TO THE SOUND OF CRYING. It was a sad kind of weep, the kind of cry you''d make when the doctor announced your loved one deceased. I was confused about that. The only other sound was the beeping of what I think is my alarm clock. Why was someone crying in my room¡ªwait, who is in my room?! I tried to pry my eyes open, but a sharp pain made me groan and squeeze them even tighter.


    Now that I think of it, I can''t move my body at all. I tried to move my arms, my legs, hell, even my head but all the response I could get was a wiggle in my toes. The crying stopped when I could make slight sounds with my mouth, trying to form the words ''wake me up'' but could only groan. I''ve never had sleep paralysis before this and I can see why people are so terrified of it.


    Why does this feel familiar? The feeling of not being able to control my body. Maybe it''s some kind of d¨¦j¨¤ vu¡ª


    Oh no. Oh God, no. Please tell me that was all a dream. Tell me I didn''t run through the woods with Sadie and please tell me that a real-life flower did not ink my skin?! All of it, like panels in a comic, came back to me one by one. The memories of losing Sadie, finding her and then finding that flower. Why had I been so stupid and walked towards the damn thing? Why didn''t I think rationally and run away for dear life?


    It all makes sense now. The crying, the beeping. I can remember last night as clear as day, just as if I happened only seconds ago. I passed out in the middle of the woods, Sadie there by my side. I can bet that I was out there (as far as my consciousness knows) for forty minutes. That is way longer than needed to walk the dog. Mom must''ve called the police when she noticed I took longer than usual on my walk and found me.


    I could hear mom gasp. "Baby?! Are you awake?! Oh my God, nurse! She''s woken up!" I winced at the loudness in her tone. God, nobody likes to wake up to yelling, and I, even as happy as I am to know she''s here with me and that I''m out of those forsaken woods, wished that she''d kindly be quiet.


    I could finally feel my eyes opening. They peeled open slowly and was instantly blinded by the bright ceiling lights. I groaned, turning my head away and squeezing my eyes shut yet once again. As I struggled to open my eyes without crying, mom was patting my shoulders and encouraging me to wake up fully. I can hear the sadness in her tone, the throaty sobs and squeaky yells. I was filled with a sense of guilt.


    I must have worried her so badly. Her and Lizzie. I''ll have to apologize soon or else the guilt will probably eat me inside out. I hate when they worry about me like this, to the point of turning their lives around 160 degrees. Mom is very busy these days by handing two jobs to keep up with me and my sister. I know she doesn''t have the time to deal with me, like staying off her job for even a few hours. And Lizzie, well, I just don''t like the idea of making my little sister cry for my sake.


    I opened my eyes and looked mom dead in the eyes, my face sad. "Sorry, ma... didn''t mean to make you worry," I said and already felt like crying when I saw her eyes tear up. "And I''m sorry you had to stay here to look after me." I cringed at myself, feeling horrible. I adverted my eyes, readying myself up for a lecture.


    But she never gave me one. I could hear her inhale and exhale gently before she spoke. "Genevieve Annamarie Paris, it''s a mother''s job to worry about her children. Don''t you ever feel sorry about these kinds of things and do not bring up my job, sweetie. I have everything handled. You just worry about yourself, yeah?" She gently stroked the hair in my face behind my ears, looking down at me like I was a million dollars. Relief drove the guilt away and I relaxed against her hand, enjoying the warmth of her hand and warmth of her motherly heart.


    She really is the best mom ever, I concluded in my thoughts. She was always there for me even if my dad couldn''t. I don''t care about him, though. All I need is my mom, sister and Sadie. I don''t know how mom can''t put up with me. All I ever do is cause trouble for her at school and I''m the most scatterbrained person in the entire world. But she''s always been patient with me.


    A question dawned on me. "Mom?" I asked.


    She looked towards my direction, a worried look on her face. "Yes? Are you okay? Need me to call that nurse? ''Cos she sure didn''t come when I hollered for her earl¡ª" I felt like laughing at her overprotective speech. She was asking a million questions a second.


    "No, no! I''m good, just wondering how long I''ve been in the hospital?" It couldn''t be more than a few hours at most¡ª


    "Two days, sweetie. You had me worried sick." I felt my eyes bulge out of the sockets. She has to be kidding me. Two effin days asleep? How did I sleep for two days straight?


    Probably noticing my confused face, mom tried to comfort me but before she could even get the words out of her mouth the door opened. Both of our heads looked towards the door, eyeing the newcomers like deers caught in headlights. They were police officers, both men and very stern looking¡ªmuch like you usual dad would look like if I''m honest. They gave me a pitiful smile before turning to face my mother.


    "Miss Paris, if you could please leave the room for a few minutes while we question your daughter, that would be great. It''ll only take a few moments of your time." He spoke professionally, his features as firm as ever. Mom gave me a sideways look, questioning me with her eyes if I was okay with this. I nodded, not really caring if she stayed or not. I would have to tell her what happened anyway. She gave me a kiss on the head before leaving the room.


    Now, I''m all alone with two strangers. Not that they''re dangerous because they are in fact, police officers. The officer who didn''t speak a single word stayed put by the door as the vocal one walked towards my bed, his hand reaching for a pen in his pocket and notepad in the other.


    Oh shit, I tried to hide my panic, what am I going to say? I can''t just tell them a rose caused all this! Oh shit, oh shit...


    I guess I''m just going to have to lie. Not lie about the whole thing, but a little lie here and there wouldn''t hurt anyone. Not like they''d believe me anyway. Who in their right mind would listen to my story and be all ''ahh gotchu, happens to everyone''?! Literally no one.


    But, the little angel on my shoulder murmured, I would be lying to the police. That is bad, that can get me in jail for a few nights. And that goes on my record. How can I expect to get a good job when they find out I was in jail before?


    Think, Genevieve, it''s either a fifty percent of jail time or a hundred percent of nuthouse time. I think I know the better choice here.


    The police officer stood next to my bed now. He clicked his pen and steadied it on his notepad, ready for my side of the story. "Alrighty, Genevieve, can you tell me what happened. The whole story and don''t leave out any details¡ªanything will help find who did this." I froze. They think someone did this to me... and what exactly happened to me in the first place? Did the flower poison me?


    I shook my thoughts. Focus on the police officer and then I''ll deal with my own problems. Talking to the police was one problem checked off my list.


    I cleared my throat. "Well, I was walking my dog around the block like I usually do. It was dark out and nobody ever goes out that late where I live on weekdays so I wasn''t worried about anything," I stopped talking for a moment, looking at the officer and seeing him nodding me on to continue. So I do. "and Sadie started acting weird and the next thing I know she''s running to the woods. I chased after her, got lost in the woods. I found her in an opening in the woods, put her back on my leash, and that the last thing I can remember."


    When I was finished talking and he noticed that I wasn''t going to continue my story, he seemed conflicted. "Okay, but can you remember how you passed out and or how you came about having digested some type of harmful toxin?" What? Since when did I eat or drink something toxic? Oh, maybe he''s talking about the rose. I did feel like I was dying. Maybe this all isn''t so insane after all, maybe I should just tell the police what happened in full truth. Just leave out the part about being under hypnosis.


    I acted like I recalled something out of the blue. "Actually," he leaned in, pen ready to write, "I remember touching some kind of... flower? I can''t remember clearly but it made my hand burn and after that, I must have passed out." I finished, leaving out any fantasy-like parts as possible. What I said is all true, just not the full truth. Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    The police officer (whose name I learned was officer Drake by looking at his tag) nodded. He seemed to be racking thoughts and questions in his head, putting pieces together.


    "Must have been some type of poisonous plant. Do you have any allergies?" He asked. I nodded, remembering the day I almost died from an allergic reaction.


    "Yeah, peanuts. But that''s all." God, am I glad I''m allergic to peanuts, too. I hate the taste and texture of anything peanut buttery. The time I almost died of a reaction to peanut butter why because my friends thought that I just hated peanut butter and wanted to prank me with putting recess pieces in my ice cream. Imagine their surprise when I starting choking on my spit and turned blue. Yeah, they were mortified.


    Officer Drake hummed. Clearly, to him, there were pieces of the puzzle missing. But this case will just have to go cold because there was no one there with me (I think?) and hopefully I was just mad off my mind from worry and imagined the whole thing.


    "Okay, final question. Was there anyone there with you? Did you see anyone at all?" I blanked out, remembering the scary figure of the mysterious man in the playground. Sure, he was creepy and all and seemed like a total creeper, but I highly doubt that he was there when I was being freaking consumed by a plant. There was no one there other than Sadie.


    Sadie! Is she okay?! I pray that she stayed with me the whole time I was there and that mom found her and took her home safely.


    I decided on telling him that I did see someone earlier on my walk. Before I spoke, I shook off any thoughts of Sadie so my voice wouldn''t quiver. "Yeah, I did. I couldn''t see their face or anything because it was really dark but there were at the playground near my house. Kinda creeped me out and I went to walk home but that''s when Sadie ran off." I added sheepishly, rubbing the back of my neck at my foolishness. All of this trouble just because I can''t walk a dog. Wow.


    Officer Drake clicked his pen and put that and his notepad in his pockets. I silently rejoiced in my head, beyond happy that he finally decided to complete his interrogation. By what I would guess, he might pin this all on either an allergic reaction or that strange guy I saw. I would at first glance say he has absolutely nothing to do with me whatsoever but, now that all of my memories are coming in one by one, I can''t help but wonder if that figure is the one responsible for the voices. Maybe that was just all in my head¡ªhell, I might be demented! How could that all possibly happen?!


    Drake smiled at me. "Thank you for your cooperation, miss. I hope you have a pleasant day." He waved at me, smiling still. The brightness in his smile almost made me shiver. He then walked over to the door and whispered a few things in the other officer''s ear¡ªsomething too inaudible for me to hear¡ªand left without another word.


    Mom stumbled in the room with a worried expression. Oh God, more questioning. "What happened? What did they ask? And what the hell happened to you two days ago?!" Finally, she asked the most important question. I was wondering when she''d break and finally ask me. She is usually nice about space and allowing myself to choose the right time to tell her things, but I knew something like me going missing for a complete two days was not on her list of waiting.


    I smiled at her, trying to ease down her worries. If I seemed happy, then she would relax more, its common sense with things like these. She did calm down a little bit, her expression not as anxious yet still worried. She''s constantly stressed these days and I bet I made it a gazillion times worse.


    "Calm down mama!" I laughed, trying to lighten her up. She didn''t smile or laugh with me, just stared me down like the mother she is looking for answers. So, I sighed. "The police were just questioning me like protocol¡ªnothing special, okay?" She nodded and made a gesture with her hand for me to continue. "And about the accident, I''ll tell you it in the car. I am leaving, right?" I questioned, suddenly filled with dread with the thought of having to stay here any longer. I hate hospitals¡ªalways have since I was little¡ªand I sure as hell ain''t staying here overnight. Even though hospitals smell good, they don''t feel the same.


    She smiled. "Yes, you are. I know how much you hate it here so I''m taking you home. The doctors suggested that this experience may be traumatic but you should be good. You will tell me if you start to feel weird?" She asked but if you asked me, she seemed to be stating more than asking.


    I knew better than to say no. So, I nodded softly. Truth be told, if I started feeling... paranoid or anything, I probably won''t tell her until it starts to get bad. But I''m okay right now so I should be okay later on, too. Mom clapped her hands together in a happy manner, probably thrilled to have me back safe and sound.


    Mom threw her arms around me and squeezed me as hard as her strength would allow. I coughed and attempted to leave her bear hug but the more I struggled the tighter it got.


    "I''m so happy you''re okay. I don''t know what I''d do if something happened to you, Genevieve." She whispered in my ear. Her whisper sounded sad and stressed like she needed a really good rest. Which, I will give her. As soon as we get home I''m putting her to bed because I know she hasn''t slept. It was painfully obvious by the bag under her eyes and her listless looking eyes. I really, really hate seeing her so down and stressed--she deserved nothing but the world but all she ever does is waste her life and dreams away by taking care of me and working her ass off at an officer where everyone hates her.


    I watched as she smiled happily through tears and ruffled my messy locks of brown hair. Through her pale and stress-stricken face, I could see her genuine happiness.


    Well, I guess to her, I began to think, watching her frail around frantically to pack my things up, her life isn''t so bad. That''s a mother''s personality for you.


    Mom stopped shoving things into a plastic bag to look back at me, her eyebrows arched. "I know you might feel tired and all, but don''t expect me to carry your ass outta that bed missy. I''m bout as weak and frail as granny." She laughed, urging me with her hand to get out of the bed and into some clothes she brought me from home. I laughed, too, and got out of bed.


    I felt a cold breeze on my back and flushed, hands going to bring the hospital gown down. Mom snickered and shook her head. "S-Stop laughing..!" I managed to say through a stuttered voice. "I... hate hospitals..." I said, grumbling. Mom all but laughed and muttered some words to herself before handing me my clothes.


    I gladly took the clothes, snatching them out of her hand and quickly making my way to the bathroom in the room. I seriously hate these dumb clothes, why do we have to wear such embarrassing pieces of cloth?!


    ''I think it''s due to the fact that doctors and nurses can have easy access to the patients said body.''


    "Ahh, okay." I nodded my head, hand on my chin in understanding. But still, it''s so weird to walk around practically naked¡ª


    Hold up.


    I stopped moving, the process of putting my shirt on frozen completely with shock. What the hell was that? The same feeling of running up the stairs after switching the lights off entered my being and I quickly pulled my shirt over my head and looked around the restroom. It''s empty, as expected. If it''s empty and no one else is here then who the hell just spoke?!


    ''That would be me.''


    I screamed, accidentally throwing my jeans in the air and knocking over the hand soaps on the sink. My mom immediately came to my rescue, knocking on the door repeatedly and asking what happened. I know that I talk to myself sometimes (maybe a little too much...) but there is a thin line between inner thoughts and fucking voices in you head!


    Mom continued her barbarous knocking until I finally answered. "I-I-I''m fi-fine... there was an, uh, s-spider!" I stuttered, trying my best to sound believable even though just a second ago I screamed bloody murder. I do have an irrational fear of spiders, though. She sighed and told me to quiet down before the nurses think she abuses me. I would have laughed if not for the fact that I''m literally going insane.


    Just as I start to feel saner, here come''s miss schizophrenia! I sighed deeply, running my pale fingers through my matted hair in stress. I can''t believe my luck these past few days, it''s gone completely off the charts by now. First, Sadie acts weird and runs off into the woods. Next, I get freaking hypnotized by a goddamn flower, and to top that off, that flower printed itself onto my skin and now, this voice in my head?! I think I need to get on some medication, after all.


    Thinking over all of the events again, I suddenly thought of something. I don''t know why I didn''t think of this before or how the thought completely went over my head. The rose. The tattoo. That''s how I can tell if I''m either going insane or everything else is going insane.


    I''m quick to roll up the sleeve of my sweater I recently put on. My hands trembled on the fabric, not liking the idea of the possibility of seeing a rose imprinted on my hand. As jittery as I was, I somehow managed to roll up my sleeve some. My eyes widened and a sudden wave of dread washed over me as my eyes slowly, yet anxiously, fell upon the small lines of green. These lines of green had thorns on them, and I knew that my hopes were for nothing.


    Vines. At the bottom of my hand, near my fingers, were a bunch of strangled vines. Of course, I knew what would follow these vines. Pulling my sleeve up further, I wish I could say I was surprised at what I saw.


    It was just as I thought. From my palm, all the way up to my mid-lower arm was a tattoo of a rose. The rose lied against my skin, bright with colors, and taunting me with it''s mystery. It seems so, how do I say this without sounding plain out mental... old. Yeah, that described it perfectly. Although it is as colorful as a rainbow, it looked like I''ve had it for nearly years. No redness of the skin and no itchiness, either. Kind of like those childish water tattoos I used to get as a kid. An idea popped into my head from that thought.


    I walked over towards the sink and wet my hands with soap and water. Then, I brought my right hand (the one not accompanied by the tattoo) and started to rub my skin. As harsh as I was, if this was a fake tattoo then it would have definitely come off by now. But it never did. Not even a tiny bit did the tattoo peel off. So, it''s as real as day.


    How wonderful, I scowled within my head, my dumb humor masking my utmost horror. Tears welled up in my eyes, fogging my vision like a window against a downpour. This isn''t good. None of this is actually happening, it can''t be! Right? There is absolutely no way in hell that a flower sunk itself into my skin like a tattoo. There is no way someone is talking in my head.


    ''Actually, there is someone talking in your head. That''s me.''


    I think I''m going to be sick.

 Voices

    THE NEXT THING I KNEW I WAS IN MOM''S CAR. My mind, so overwhelmed by the mere fact of reality, had taken a blank on the world. I was so distressed and confused, questioning what was real and what was fragment of my imagination. My mom being the doll she is knew something was up instantly and insisted on me staying a little while in the hospital and have some more tests done to see if my mentality was okay. I refused, obviously. I hate hospitals with a deep passion and nothing could ever change my feeling on that matter, not even my craziness.


    The scenery passed by in blurs. It was raining outside (nothing unusual for Montana weather) and I felt the urge to sit in the rain and relax. Mom would never allow that, though. Not now at least.


    I tried my best to ignore everything unnatural. I really tried. The whole car ride I ignored any and everything strange that happened to me these past days. I kept my sleeve rolled down the entire time, even as a part of me was begging to ask my mom why she didn''t question the tattoo earlier. Can she not see it? If so, then I really must be going mad. There is no logical explanation to why she wouldn''t be able to see it if I can. It''s as clear as day.


    Then, there was the voice. That sickening, disembodied voice that kept talking to me. The questions are bore, the complaints, the sass¡ªI can''t take it and I just started hearing it thirty minutes ago.


    ''I''m not the worse thing in the world! Jeez, have some respect, will you? You should rejoice at my voice, human! I''m something so much greater than you!'' The voice screeched within my head, somehow reaching high decibels. I thought you can''t change the tone of your thoughts?


    I let out a sad sigh, ignoring the worried look of my mother. She''s been doing this the whole time, sneaking glance at me and asking me if everything''s okay. Knowing that I can''t tell her this matter, I had to lie. And God, it pains me so much to lie to her. She''s such a good person and I''ve never lied to her in my life, but some reason, I feel like a lot more it going to change starting today.


    I shook my head. No, I tried reassuring myself, that''s the voice talking...


    ''No it wasn''t. That was you talking, stupid. Don''t lump my beautiful voice with yours.''


    I want to punch myself. I wonder if I could pull that off without mom noticing. But, alas, I kept my hands away from myself and ignored everything around me the best I could. I''m sure, like any other person, if I ignored my... insanity... it should go away, at least for a while?


    I hope so, at least.


    Colors varying from greens to browns filled my vision outside the car''s window, creating a space if peace within my head as I drowned the strange voice out. I think I should pick up some stress-relieving hobbies or anything because the stress was really starting to make me crazy.


    Our yellow house finally came into view. It was a small, two-story house that looked as if it belonged to a grandmother. But, it was home.


    Mom pulled into the driveway and shut the engine of the car off. I waited for her to get out of the car so I could follow suit, but she never did. That''s when I knew she wanted to get something off her mind.


    It took her a while, but after thirty minutes, mom finally spoke. "Sweetie... I know you''re going through a lot right now, but I need to know what happened." She spoke ever so softly, her voice resembling a goddess. I sighed, eyes still planted on the scenery outside my window before I nodded.


    And for her, I would tell her the whole truth.


    "This is going to sound... crazy," I started, biting my bottom lip as I snuck a sideways glance to mom. She nodded, face completely serious. She wanted these answers now, I noticed. "I was walking Sadie down the usual street and she started acting weird. It was really creepy."


    She gave me a puzzled look. "Weird? How weird?"


    "Weird like behaving good. She sat down and just looked forwards. It was creepy, so I tugged on her collar to go home but the collar snapped, and next thing I knew I was running in the woods after her trying to get her before she hot lost or hurt." I spoke swiftly, trying as hard as possible to get this explanation over with. Even as fast as the words flew from my lips, mom understood everything and nodded along. So, I continued.


    "I caught her and... and started running with her in a random direction¡ª" As soon as the word random fell from my lips, mom broke my sentence with rage.


    "Genevieve! Why in God''s name would you do that? God, no wonder you got lost..." she murmured angrily and I said nothing back. I know I must''ve worried her to hell and back, she didn''t need me fighting back.


    "You know I''m a puss¡ªthat I get scared easily," I cut off the cursing when I saw her pointed stare. "And I just really wanted to get out of there, so I ran..." I don''t think I can tell her. After seeing her serious face filled with such worry as a mother, I didn''t want to worry her even further. But, as a mother, she should know what happened in full truth, it was her right. I would feel guilty not telling her.


    But what if she thinks I''m crazy, I thought, countering myself. I looked at mom once more before coming to my decision. She wants this, she needs this.


    "Mom, this is going to sound crazy. But please, please believe me." I pleaded, trying my best to look as serious as mom could look. A little taken aback, she nodded confidently, but I could see the anxiety sewn in her features. "I found a really pretty flower while I was running, and I know I''m so stupid! But I couldn''t help myself, I felt like I was being hypnotized to touch it. I couldn''t think of anything else but touching the flower." I rushed, body flooded in a feeling I couldn''t identify.


    Talking about the flower made me feel so many things... pain and disappointment in myself, but behind all that pain I could feel a little... a little...


    ''It''s exhilarating, isn''t it?'' The voice chucked within my head, answering for me. I shook my head, completely ignoring it. It will pass.


    I focused back on mom, who was waiting for me to continue. "So I did. And I kept squeezing it and-and I was like a different person. The rose sunk into my skin mom! How does that happen? It literally soaked itself in my arm like one of those fake tattoos. I-I know this sounds--"


    "Completely insane. Yeah, it does." Mom sighed, putting her head in her palms. She sighed, mumbling something incoherent before looking up at me with sad eyes. "I shouldn''t have asked, you''re clearly still suffering symptoms of the fall. Sweetie, why don''t you go and get some rest, okay?" She smiled sadly, a skinny hand cupping my face motherly. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    Now, I wanted to cry. The one person in the world I wanted and needed to believe me didn''t. Of course she didn''t, I thought bitterly. I must be going insane, after all. Maybe I did need some rest. I shoved my emotions behind a facade and smiled at her, eyes glistening.


    "Yeah, you''re right. Thanks, mom." I pecked her cheek and got out the car, my face instantly dropping when I saw out of eyesight. Suddenly, the feeling of wanting to cry bombarded my entire being and I went straight to my room. Locking my door, I flopped on my bed and allowed the feeling complete and absolute despair to fill me up to the rim. I wouldn''t cry, though. It was really easy to tell when I cry with my fair complexion.


    It was almost sunset and the birds were chirping their goodnights to one another. I sighed, rolling to the left side. My eyes felt heavy underneath all the stress and all I needed now was some sleep.


    I caught sight of multicolored print on my left arm. Not even that could force my eyes awake.


    <u>________</u>


    "Eve, please stay home today. I''m scared you still need to take it eas--"


    I cut mom off with yet another one of my famous sighs. "Mama! Please, I need to go before I''m late. I''ll be okay, trust me." I begged, giving her my best puppy dog look. She shook her head and crossed her arms across her chest. Oh no, she was going in overprotective mother mode. I did not need this first thing in the morning, that was for sure.


    "Eve, you''re staying home and that''s final." She said through pressed lips.


    "I feel better, though! Plus, seeing my friends will make me feel even better, I haven''t seen them since break. I swear, if I start feeling faint, I go to the office and take a nap. Or, some ibuprofen." I nervously bargained, hoping to God that she would give in. She uncrossed her arms and kept her stare on me, squinting her eyes and she looked me up and down, possibly looking for any signs of illness.


    "Fine." Said mom through clenched teeth. I yelped yes and run upstairs to grab my already packed bookbag and my phone off my nightstand. When I came back downstairs, I noticed mom talking on the phone with someone. She saw me as I was walking out the front door and motioned me to stay. I groaned and sluggishly walked to her side.


    "Mhm, yeah... just keep an eye on her, ''kay? Good, thanks Luca, this means a lot to me." I gaped at her as she hung up. Seeing the bizarre look on my face, she went, "what? This is part of our deal if you go to school." It took me a few minutes to find the ability to speak correctly after hearing that name come out of her mouth. There was no way in hell she just called him.


    "Please tell me you didn''t." I pleaded, my heart racing. Racing from fear, from anxiety. I didn''t want to see him, I really did not want to see him right now after all the shit I''m going through. She shrugged and put her phone back in the pocket of her jeans as if saying it is what it is. But, it wasn''t just that to me--oh, it didn''t even come close. Calling him was the worst option possible, but I couldn''t tell her that.


    I can''t.


    She gave me a look. "What? You two used to be close as peas in a pod. Heaven knows why you decided to stop being friends with him, he''s such a good boy, Eve. I think reconnecting with an old friend will help you cope." You don''t understand! I wanted to scream at her, I wanted her to call him and tell him I can''t go anymore. I gulped, casting my eyes to look down at my feet as I analyzed possible options I could take other than anything that ended in the name Luca.


    Then, it came to me. I guess I wasn''t meant to go to school, after all. There was no way anymore. I sighed, sad I couldn''t see my friends but glad I wouldn''t see him. Mom, noticing my sudden sadness and uneagerness to go to school, stopped what she was doing and walked towards me again. I could tell by the way she was walking that she was going to be firm with me.


    You see, mom likes Luca. Hell, she loves him as if he were her son. Which, she had hoped whenever since we were kids. You can imagine her joy when we started actually dating. We were in love, blissfully, even. But bliss is temporary blindness and I was blind to the truth of the love of my life. To his facade, to the mask he wore on his pretty face. He was polished in porcelain and stuffed with razors.


    "What? I thought you wanted to go to school?" She asked, hands on her hips. I bit my lip and shook my head, fighting the urge to not lie to her, but I knew what I wanted to do.


    "Actually, I feel ill. My head''s spinning and--"


    "Genevieve, are you actually trying to lie to me right now?" Mom hissed. I flinched, clearly not expecting her to be angry with me. She never gets angry unless it about something she actually cares about. Guess she still loves to think of the chance of us being together. I sucked in a huge breath.


    Just breathe. Breathe, Genevieve.


    "Mom, I can''t go with him, I''ll just stay home," I grumbled, stomach starting to actually feel nauseous. To think I completely forgot about him till now. What I would do to forget again.


    Mom sighed. "And why is that? He''s a good boy, Eve. Why did you even break up with him,''" she whispered that last part to herself, shaking her head in disapproval. But, she couldn''t do anything about who I date and knew deep down that he and I would never work out ever again. Mom knew how fixated I was about forgetting him, forgetting out chemistry and our old love. She, however, wasn''t doing any forgetting anytime soon.


    "Mom, he..." I started saying, almost slipping too much, "...it''s awkward between us. I don''t think we can be friends anymore, not after dating and all..." I mumbled, making lies up as I go. She, believing me, gave me her ''are you kidding me'' look and shook her head at me.


    "You''re kidding me? That''s all your reason is? Eve, you begged me to go to school and now you don''t want to go over a boy? Wha--" Her sentence was cut short when the doorbell rang. Mom replaced the frown on her face to your everyday award-winning motherly smile. "That must be him now," and with those words she took off to the door, leaving me in my petrified state.


    My blood froze over, stilling my body in place in the hallway. I grew completely rigid in my stance, heartbeat continuously pounding louder and louder with each and every beat. I couldn''t do this, I wouldn''t. Suddenly, what happened to me the other day seemed like a teddy bear rather than an actual man-eating bear. If that wasn''t the bear, then who was?


    "Luca!" Mom cheered and from the corner of my eye, I could see her give him a hug.


    Him.


    "Hello, miss Paris. Lovely to see you again." He complimented her, making her coo at him. Though his face looked calm, I could see the utter paranoid insanity in his eyes.


    He''s the bear.


    "How have you bee, Luca--"


    "Where''s Genny? Is she okay? You said something happened? Can I see her?" Luca rushed out, completely cutting off mom''s sentence. Not thrown off a bit at his rudeness, she instead laughed. She really likes him and there was nothing I could do to shake that love.


    ''Yes, there is. There''s a lot of things, but you won''t say them.'' Said that foreign voice again. Right now, for some reason, talking to a voice in my head didn''t seem as bad as talking to Luca did.


    No, I agreed with the voice, I can''t.


    "Haha, still a lovesick puppy. Young love, how I miss it." Mom joked with him, pulling him inside my house. Stepping on my rug, within the security of my own home. I paled like a deer caught in headlights when his eyes found mine, a devious glint in them as they stared me down, predator to prey.


    My fingers trembled as I played with the hem of my school skirt. The voice tisked within my head as if she were shaking a finger disapprovingly at me.


    ''No, you can. But you won''t.'' She countered, voice haunting my thoughts. I knew it was right, for some reason, I was agreeing with a disembodied voice as if it were out of sanity.


    "Ahh, there she is! The princess of the castle!" Grinned Luca, eyes darkening at the sight of my still figure. I shivered under his gaze, looking back at my feet. In my line of vision, his feet stepped in, close enough that I knew if I looked up, there he would be, in my face. Always too close. Telling me he''s a part of me.


    "Eve, say hi." Mom demanded, although playfully.


    Mom. That''s right, I forgot she''s here. I mustered up all the strength I could find while being in Luca''s presence and, finally, looked up. My eyes met oceanic ones that, if you didn''t know him, would think was beautiful. Oh, how ugly they were to me. Those devilish eyes of his I wish to desperately stab out until he was on the ground, crying because of me. Of me, not him. He needs to take my old place and see--no, feel--what it was like. What it''s still like.


    I smiled. This smile was the frosting on a burnt cake. "Hey... Luca." His grin widened, reaching his ears. I could see the look in his eyes, the satisfaction.


    "I missed you, Genny. Did you miss me?" He spoke in that boyish way that made mom laugh. She couldn''t tell the double meaning behind his question and I didn''t blame her. She would never know, I could never tell her.


    So, I brought my smile higher. "Of course."

 Cat and Mouse

    "Be good you too!" Mom giggles as Luca and I walked out the door. She giggled at something Luca did, but I was too in my head to even want to see what he was doing. What he did didn''t matter to me, because as soon as she shuts that door, I was out of here. "And don''t do anything inappropriate, that''s a warning!" She laughed some more, not seeing anything behind the lines of his fake face. She has a good sense of judgment, but for Luca, she was totally blind.


    Luca laughed. "No promises, Misses P!" I paled and started to walk faster, the desire to get away from this demon of a person strong. I heard the front door slam shut. Thankful that mom finally decided to go back in the house to leave us alone, I didn''t hesitate to start jogging away from Luca, heading through a muddy dirt road that went through the woods. Sure, it was a longer route, but Luca, as far as I know, doesn''t know this route like I do. Doesn''t know the twists, turns and secrets paths.


    "Hey! Genny, where do you think you''re going?!" Luca shouted from a distance. My heart stopped at the mere sound of his voice, but I pushed past my anxiety and ran through the dirty path like there was no tomorrow. "Genny!"


    I bit my lip from making a snarky remark. That would just do nothing but agitate him further. I didn''t need that. The path started to get steeper, meaning I was getting deeper in the woods¡ªjust as I wanted. Hopefully, he would lose my tail in one of the crossroads. If he got lost, this is all his fault.


    "Fucking hell! Genny, if you don''t stop this goddamn second, I swear to God you''ll never see the sun again!" I closed my eyes, taking a deep breath of icy air, calming my nerves. He won''t scare me¡ªafter that night in the woods, nothing could possibly frighten me more than the unknown. And Luca wasn''t unknown. I know all his motives, wishes, sick desire... I know him like a book. There was one problem, though.


    So did he.


    "Hahaha! I get it, you''re too scared to talk to me, it''s alright darling. I won''t do anything, I promise." I could hear his footsteps growing closer. I forced myself to pick up speed despite my exhaustion and darted down a sideways path. Luca, watching my figure most likely, followed me through the path. Good, he''s falling for it. Just have to last a bit longer and I can get to school with no problem...


    "I was trying to be nice, Genny. But you''re starting to really piss me off!" He hollered, that nice facade quickly vanishing. Luca, the real, genuine Luca was making an appearance and I just hope that my feet can run faster.


    Great, one bad thing after another. A rose literally attacks me and now I''m being chased by my crazy ex-boyfriend. Talk about luck.


    A voice snickered. It wasn''t Luca and I hadn''t made a peep since I was at home. It was my insanity talking to me. I really hit my head hard.


    ''What? I''m insane? Psh, you wish. I''m the only way you''re gonna make it out here alive, girl.'' The sickly sweet voice sneered back at me. From running away from Luca to talking to a voice in my head, I didn''t know what to focus on. Nevertheless, I pushed myself forward onto the shadowed path, where no sunlight came there. It might be more dangerous for me to lead Luca into, but I know this path better than he ever will. He could fight me here, but I could run. I will run.


    ''Or...'' the kid-like voice drawled on, ''you could simply bite him. You know, that''s always easier.'' I couldn''t help but choke on my saliva. What the hell?


    That''s not funny, I thought, a sudden rush of anger flowing through me. I was in a serious situation, one where I could either run away with nothing more than over-exertion or Luca would catch me and God knows what he''ll do. I''ll probably go back... there. I would rather die than go there again. Yet, why do I always have these freakish delusional episodes where I talk to myself when I''m in danger?!


    ''So she talks. I thought you were still pondering my existence like a feeble child. Done now?'' She snickered, obviously finding my confusion the most humorous thing of the century.


    I growled. Shut up, I don''t need this right now. I gotta get away.


    "If it weren''t for those track meetings, I would have my hand wrapped around your throat right now, bitch! I see you," Luca shouted, his voice hauntingly close. "And when I get you, oh... you''re gonna wish I killed you before." My heart started to race against my ribcage, beats so fast, so hard that I thought I would fall to the ground any second and have a panic attack. I keep my brave face on. My feet felt like they were bleeding, but I could do this.


    I saw what I came looking for. In the middle of the dark path lies a tree so big that three people could hide behind it on one side. This was my magic trick, the only way I can disappear from Luca''s eyesight.


    ''Hmm, smart girl. But, the question is: will this be enough?'' Commented the voice, going about with its unnecessary input again.


    I ran straight towards the back of the tree and ran towards a boulder that the tree was hiding. Quickly, I jumped behind the boulder and fell into the hole. This was my ultimate hiding spot when I play hide N'' seek with my best friends and Luca has always been the one left out the loop about this spot. The hole only big enough for one person and you have to sit in it with your head on your knees, but it was hidden like a black cat the night.


    What do you mean? I question the voice, a bit off-put by the peculiar question.


    She snorted. ''You can run all you want, but, if he catches you, then what? Try to run away? Hopelessly flail your arms around until he knocks you out with a rock to the head? What then, Genevieve?'' The baby-like tone the voice carried suddenly turned sinister, a bunny shifting into a wolf. I went to answer, but footsteps right above me prevented my thinking process.


    "Hiding, are we now? You know, as much as I like playing tag, finding my meal is much better..." Luca sighed longingly. He quietly walked around the surface above me, clicking his tongue in disapproval. "You know, we had something. You and I. Something real. Something meaningful. But, you just had to ruin it like you do everything in your life. You ruined your mother''s life, did you know that? She tells me constantly of the pain she endured after quitting school to take care of a mistake such as yourself."


    I bit the inside of my cheek sharply. No, he''s wrong. He''s just trying to get under my skin. Mom never said that, she would never say that. I know she loves me, even if she shows it in a weird way, she means well with Lizzie and me.


    ''That big mouth of his is really pissing me off. Hey, can we just bite him already? I''m really looking forward to seeing him spasm out of the floor as he chokes on his own spit.'' I was baffled at her sudden spitefulness. Just who in the hell is this voice? My own emotions portrayed by living thoughts? Insanity? Something... something more... paranormal?


    As if that would hurt him. He has the body of a rock, he works out like every single day. I could punch him and he would giggle, I grumbled in my thoughts humorlessly. That was out of the question. Physical attacks won''t work. The only chance if escaping is running away. Cowardly, yes, but efficient.


    ''Are you stupid? Our bite will work wonders, darlin''. One bite is all it takes from you.'' She said sinisterly. By the tone of her voice, I actually considered biting him.


    Gathering my sanity back, I shook my head. You''re crazy. Absolutely fucking crazy. I told you, he''s strong as¡ª


    ''But you''re stronger! Don''t you get it?! He''s such a pest you could flick him away with a finger.''


    "Oh, Genny... I''m getting sick of games. You''re gonna be late for school, what''ll happen when I tell mommy dearest? To her, I mean..." That last sentence shook me to my core. No, he couldn''t mean... he wouldn''t. Right?


    My eyes started watering. I can''t let him hurt her. It would be my fault if he did anything to mom or Lizzie. I can stop this. I can just... hand myself over.Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    ''Are you crazy or just fucking stupid? You know, the awakening is supposed to be a gradual process, but you''re annoying me so I''m gonna force it.''


    What do you¡ª"AHHH!" I slapped a hand over my mouth, terror poisoning my veins. If not terror, then something else was definitely running through them. A sharp, freezing cold feeling buzzed through my veins, starting with the wrist the tattoo lied on.


    My eyes blanked out at the intensity of the pain. The arm with the tattoo started blazing, quickly turning that icy feeling to boiling water. My arm spasmed and twitched as the fire spread. My eyes watered and couldn''t find the care to keep quiet from Luca anymore. I screamed out again, choking on the scream as I felt the burn rise. It flew through my left hand, coursing its way to my neck and flew under. The closer it came to my heart the closer I came to the conclusion that I was going to die here.


    There were no maybes or hopes anymore. I was going to die by the hands of a tattoo.


    ''Shhh... it''ll all be over soon. Just, remember now to go too wild, ''kay?'' The voice crackled, laughing as I fell to the ground beneath me, body twisting and turning in such angles I should have broken a few bones.


    "Found you! Why are you¡ªwhat the hell? Cut that creepy shit out." From my watery vision, I could see the silhouette of Luca''s sitting figure above the entrance of the hole, face holding that of confusion and amusement. I snarled at him, him and I both equally surprised at the sound.


    Fire. I was on fire¡ªI had to be. This is what it must feel like to be burnt alive, although without the flames. Twitchingly, I glance towards the cursed hand, only to find my veins replaced by a neon red, protruding from my skin like worms worming around. The nauseating feeling I had multiples at the sight as I felt myself gagging on my own spit and blood.


    "Genny! Genny! Snap outta it! This trick isn''t gonna work on me." The sound of his voice flipped a switch in me I never knew I had. The pain, the trauma and the agony coursing through me suddenly dispersed into an utmost rage, turning that fire from me towards the manipulator.


    Now still in place, I found myself looking from the dirt above me towards Luca''s bellowing figure. He was expectedly angered, finding my pain nothing but an act to get free from his chains. Chains that I, in this very moment, devoured.


    ''And soon, Luca himself,'' commented the voice. I couldn''t find the will to answer the voice within my head, all concentration focused primarily on Luca and him only. He breathing, he puffs of anger, his eyes dilating, the blood pumping through his veins.


    Blood. Blood. Why can I hear it? How can I hear the way it''s flowing, the direction, the beautiful rhythmic sounds his heart pumping?


    Thump. Thump. Thump.


    He was speaking, but I could hear nothing. Not the sound of my own voice speaking back, not the sound of my heartbeat although it was very much beating as fast as light. Vibrations emitted from my throat, what was that? Crying? Sneering? Maybe, growling?


    Who cares, I thought, losing interest in anything but that thumping. I sat up quickly, a little too quickly than should be possible and didn''t miss the way Luca flinched at me.


    Me. Luca flinched because of me. The puppeteer scared of the puppet. How odd. How funny.


    Genevieve was fading away. This I was sure of. I could feel myself fighting the war in my head, desperately trying to fight against the demons that swarmed in it. I didn''t want to let the demons take control, but then again, I did.


    I would never win this fight. The demons won. Luca lost. He finally lost.


    With speed to fast to comprehend, I dashed out the hole, digging my nails into the ground to propel myself out the filthy pit. Luca stumbled backwards, hitting his head on a rock as he groaned out in pain. As Luca would, he quickly recovered, jumping on his feet and ignoring the blood streaming down his face. I looked from his smoldering eyes and to the crimson blood just above them. I knew it should have been too dark to see it since I chose the path in the woods where sunlight ceased to exist, but I could see the blood in his face clear as day.


    Curiously, I inched forward. All common sense left my body as a newfound bravery took its place. Luca watched me, cautiously eyeing me like he didn''t know me anymore.


    "Genny, what the hell are you doing?" He questioned, crossing his arms over his chest. He was puffing his chest out like a beast, showing me his confidence through body language although his eyes screamed confusion.


    I said nothing. I couldn''t speak. If I opened my mouth, I feared what would happen. What would happen to me, not to Luca. I could feel my gums filling with pain but choose to ignore that pain. Something about Luca is... is intriguing to me. Something I''ve never felt before this very minute of this very day. Not lust nor love, not even the deep hatred I harbor for him.


    ''Lust was a close guess,'' chuckled the voice.


    I scrunched my nose in disgust at the suggestion. Luca and lust could never mix for me ever again. All I want to see Luca basking in is his own blood and tears.


    A plan formed in my head. I knew the risk of taking the plan, seeing that Luca isn''t stupid in the slightest, but he is driven by an uncontrollable sex drive that even common sense could pass through him. Even if he allowed common sense to take over, he still has that sickly obsessive love for me. Though disgusting, I could do this.


    ''Not you, darling. We.'' She countered, that predator tone of hers bleeding through her innocent core. The voice was an odd person (if you could even consider her a human). She trotted around like a sheep, talking normally and acting like that of one of my friends. But whenever a situation came where someone angered me and threatened my life, I could tell that she was actually a wolf, disguising herself as a sheep until the time comes to kill.


    "Luca," I whispered. I crossed my left arm over my chest to grab the upper-arm of my right and looked to the ground. With my face to the ground, Luca couldn''t catch the look on my face. "Luca," I repeated, this time more desperate for an answer.


    "What? You finally got some fuckin'' common sense, Genny? Done fighting?" He laughed sinisterly, walking towards me. I sensed all fear he previously had vanished with each step I took.


    I smiled. All I had to do was play weak. He can''t resist a weak, feeble girl. He never did.


    "I''m sorry, please don''t hurt me..." I mumbled, bringing fake tears to my eyes that I wiped away with the sleeve of my muddy jacket. He laughed again and stood in front of me.


    "Only if you be a good girl. Can you do that for me?" He whispered, his hot breath fanning my ear. My smile deepened when an unfamiliar, bold scent filled my nostrils like heaven. God, it smelt so good.


    I nodded to his question, still keeping my face down. I was never good at hiding emotions on my face and if he saw my face he wouldn''t see his expected fear.


    Luca nuzzled my neck and licked downwards from my earlobe to my collarbone. My smile faded at the feeling. Knowing his slimy, cottoned tongue was running along me made my skin crawl in disgust. But I kept still, waiting for the perfect time.


    He then backed me up to a tree and put his knee between my thighs, running his knee up and down. When he took his lips from my neck, I decided it was time to return the favor.


    "Turn your head..." I bit my lip, deciding whether or not to say the last bit. "...Luca."


    He groaned out and obliged. I didn''t hesitate to lock my lips against his neck. Instead of licking him like a rabid animal as he did me, I took rabid to another level.


    My teeth scraped the skin of his neck, noticing how thin his skin is and how easy it would be to sink my teeth just a little further down. He started grumbling my name, running his hands along my sides aggressively.


    He started to overwhelm me. His disgusting touch, the beautiful, mouth-watery scent, the aching in my teeth¡ªeverything was killing me. I wanted something so bad it started to hurt. I groaned in pain, my breathing growing erratic against Luca''s neck.


    When Luca''s calloused hands gripped my chest, that''s when it all snapped. I thew my head back and let out a growl before slamming my face back into the crook of his neck, biting down so hard that my teeth were drowned in his fresh blood. He hissed and shouted at me to back off and that I was ''being too rough''. That only pushed me to bit harder, sucking the blood from his neck and into my mouth, savoring every taste it left in my mouth.


    He gripped my shoulders as hard as he to try and push me away. I gripped the back of his head harder, my nails sinking into the flesh on his head. I retracted my teeth and, with a drunkenly high mind, looked at his face. He was crying, those blue eyes of his red and puffy as they cried. The lips that were only minutes ago circling my neck were quivering in pain and in fear and I couldn''t help but laugh. Just like he would laugh at me.


    "You should see your face right now," I added before sinking my teeth back in. He screamed this time as I played around with his fresh wound. I clenched my jaw hard before pulling my face away from him, not letting go of my grip on his neck. The meat caught in between my teeth ripped from his neck and into my mouth. He choked on his sobs, begging me relentlessly as he kicked and punched my still stance. I thoughtlessly swallowed the chunk of meat in my mouth effortlessly before taking another look at my meal.


    He was choking on his own blood, tears and spit. His eyes that used to look like a beautiful ocean paled like the sky and rolled in the back of his head. His nude lips were painted red in his own blood. The force in his kicks and punched had grown so weak now as I watched him timidly bring his hand to my face. I looked at him, face void of emotions as I witnessed a new side of him I''d never seen before. Grabbing the hand coming towards my face, I bit into his wrist, my eyes watering in ecstasy. I moaned in his hand, sucking harder and harder until the rapid beating against my lips of his pulse dialed down.


    I stopped drinking when his heartbeat dimmed down to the point of nothing. My lips parted and my eyes looked for his face. His mouth was wide open, drool, foam, and blood mixing together down his neck. His eyes¡ªwell, I couldn''t see them anymore. He was as still as a rock, one of his hands stuck on my arm from all the pressure he was applying on it. I gulped down the last bit of blood in my mouth before it dawned on me.


    The dark reality hit me like a truck in the middle of the night. I just murdered Luca with my bare hands.


    Or rather, bare teeth.

 Despairing

    I COULDN''T BREATHE.


    For what seems like the hundredth time today, I found myself struggling to find air. I looked at my hands, painted with the deep red of Luca''s blood. My soaked hands numbly shook, splattering blood every which way. I couldn''t seem to take my stoned gaze from my hands for the longest while, but when I finally looked away, I regretted it.


    Luca''s lifeless body was laying on the muddy ground, eyes rolled in the back of his head and mouth agape with foam. His body lied awkwardly before me pale as the moon. I did that. I, a seventeen-year-old girl that weighted only 106lbs, killed a man twice my size.


    With my teeth.


    I began to tremble, my knees buckling and eyes watering. Just as Luca was before he died. Bile rose in my throat and I turned away from the corpse to lean against the tree as I let out the breakfast I ate this morning. My soft and shallow cries grew into mortified sobs as I fell to the forest floor, crying loud enough to draw attention from miles away.


    ''Oh, shut up! This is what you wanted!'' Bellowed the voice. I only cried harder, putting my bloodied hands to my face. I heard the voice groan and if it had a face, I could sense the eye-rolls. ''So what? You killed the abuser, something you''ve wanted to do forever now and now you''re gonna cry over him? Make your damn mind up...'' she grumbled.


    "I didn''t want to kill anyone! Oh God... oh my God, I-I... why did I kill him?" I wailed, sadness gradually growing into fear as I thought over the consequences. Then, I muttered, more to myself in absolute horror, "How did I kill him..." Nothing made sense anymore. There was no way I could kill him by... by sucking his blood. Oh God, why did I want to do that in the first place?


    Why was I so lustful for fucking blood?!


    The many questions only made my reality worse. "I''m a m-murderer. I killed a man." It didn''t matter how or why because the fact of the matter was that I killed someone. Me, a senior in high school that only wanted to pass i to college, killed a man in cold blood out of fear and anger. God redeems many things, but not murder.


    ''You did kill him, nice observation.''


    I was going to hell.


    "I-I''m gonna go to.. to jail! I''ll never see my family again, oh God. Luca''s never gonna see his famy again. Because I fucking killed him!" I panicked and pulled at my hair.


    ''Yes, you did. We already went over this. If it makes you feel any better, I nudged you to kill him.'' The voice confessed to me in an attempt to cheer me up.


    I laughed without humor. "You''re not real..." This voice in my head is apart of me, and if it nudged me to kill someone, I still did it. Maybe I should be locked up. I''m crazy. I have this voice in my head I have conversations with and I... I just murdered someone. I think those two facts are deeming qualities for the nuthouse. Nothing else makes sense, there was no other option.


    ''Sometimes the realest things should never make sense. They just are.'' The voice said, to which I laughed at.


    "I''m going to hell." I laughed while crying. There was no room in heaven for me now. There was no room in my own home now. I could never tell mom or my sister, I couldn''t bear to see Lizzie''s reaction when she learns her sister has killed the man she looked up to. Mother, too. They would hate me.


    I started to cry again, leaning my head against the tree as I looked up towards the roofed sky.


    After a while of endless crying, I started to ease down, staring blandly ahead of me as tears fell from my eyes silently.


    "My life is over, isn''t it?" I questioned. I already knew the answer, but felt the need for confirmation.


    ''It''s been over since you found me. But, don''t worry. I have you a new one.''


    I stopped crying at that answer. My life''s over anyway, it won''t hurt to talk to myself some. What was she even talking about anymore? "What?" I voice my thoughts. "What do you mean?"


    ''Well, let''s start with my name. I''m getting tired of being called the voice all the time. My name is Seraph. But, you may call me Sera.'' Did the voice in my head really just give itself a name? ''I''m not the voice in your head, I''m the tattoo in your arm.'' When the voice¡ªer, rather Seraph¡ªfinished speaking, the tattoo started to sting lightly to prove her point. My eyes widened when it began to glow like stars in the sky.If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Without thinking, I asked, "what are you?"


    To my surprise, she grew silent. She didn''t make a snappy remark like she''d always do. It seemed as if she was... thinking? Could she even think?


    ''I can''t tell you just yet. You''ve had a lot happen in three days. But, if I may, might I finish answering your quire?''


    I nodded, hoping Seraph could somehow see me. ''When you found me, I lured you towards me to be my... host. Believe it or not but, you''re a vampire.'' I started to laugh at the craziness of her words. I was a fool to actually try to listen to her. To think I actually wanted to believe her.


    Seraph waited for me to stop laughing. When I finally did, I didn''t let her speak as I quickly jumped that boat. "That''s ridiculous. Vampires aren''t real."


    Seraph sighed. ''Thats what all protagonists say in vampire movies, you know?'' I shook my head at her logic. As if that''d make me believe in vampires.


    ''Okay then, miss smarty-pants. Explain to me why exactly you bloodlusted for Luca? Why did you drink his blood? How did you get that inhuman strength? Why did you act like an animal? Explain that.'' Seraph asked, clearly agitated.


    I snorted. "There''s something called clinical vampirism. It''s where¡ª"


    ''I know what it is! How does that explain your strength? Your senses? You animalistic behavior?''


    "Hysterical strength. I was going into hysterics and just as adrenaline acts, I gave myself strength through adrenaline. Excited delirium." I tried, I really did try to scientifically explain the phenomenon that happened to me. Logically, those two things could be playing a part in my murder. But it was very unlikely for both of them at the same exact time in my life.


    Seraph groaned at my response. After a minute, she decided to let the topic go and continue her little explanation.


    ''You died in the woods that night. You were undergoing the process of the transformation but I sped it up, which might be while you''re so delirious and emotional.''


    Nope, I''m pretty sure I''m emotional because I literally just killed a man. I decided to keep these snarky remarks to myself. Instead, I asked, deciding upon playing her game, "how long is it supposed to take?"


    ''...one...'' Seraph mumbled. I scrunched my eyebrows in confusion.


    "What?"


    ''I said one... one year,'' Said Seraph quietly.


    "What?! Even if what you said was real, you just rushed a transformation on me in three days that''s supposed to take one whole fucking year?!" I exclaimed, absolutely astonished to no end. Seraph laughed nervously in the back of my head.


    ''Haha.. yep, I sure did... I''m just surprised you lived through the poison...'' If Seraph wasn''t in my head and couldn''t change the volume of her words, she probably would have muttered that last part to herself. As I would my thoughts, I heard her as clear as day.


    "Poison? What poison?" I asked, trying to recall said poison. There were times where I felt as if I was drowning and the being burnt alive, could that be the poison?


    ''Precisely. When you''re bitten, you feel like your drowning in a sea of breathing people. Its always been that way. When you transform... well, everyone feels something different.'' I nodded, engrossed in this topic although I couldn''t bring myself to believe it. At least, not without more proof. I mean, only crazy people believe a voice in their head. I wasn''t crazy.


    Wait, no, that''s what crazy people would say. Damn it, maybe I am going mad...


    I sighed and sat up from my soaked spot, only to spot Luca''s still corpse. I shrieked and stumbled back on my butt, heartbeat erratic and breathing heavy.


    Holy shit. Holy shit! How the hell did I forget this problem?! I put my hands in my hair and gripped tightly, tugging at my hair as I thought if a way to solve this situation as smoothly as possible. Maybe I could dig a hole here and bury the body? No, this trail isn''t deep into the woods enough¡ª


    I snapped out of my thoughts. I''m treating this like someone would hide weed. This is a person, a dead person and I''m just treating it like a small problem in my life. I really am messed up in the head.


    Seraph giggled. ''Aren''t we all? Anywho, those are probably just my emotions you''re feeling.'' Said Seraph.


    "What?" I asked half-heartedly, eyeing the body as I still pondered on a way to get rid of it.


    ''You and I are one. I feel your emotions, you feel mine. I can push my emotions onto your own if I wanted.'' Seraph concluded. She sounded proud of that little fact.


    "So... you feel like hiding the body and not me..?" I said quietly and hopefully.


    ''No. That''s all you. But, I have been smothering your grief a bit. You have a lot of that, by the way... hell knows why...''


    I gritted my teeth. Did she have no humanity? "I just killed my ex-boyfriend. Anyone would be grieving. It''s normal."


    ''Yeah, but... he was a psychopath. He abused and ra¡ª''


    "Shut up!" I shouted, not wanting to hear the rest of that sentence. "It doesn''t matter if he was a psycho or the fucking pope! I killed him! I killed someone and unless I myself was a psychopath, would feel grief and regret and guilt! I never wanted this, you made me do this... this is all your fault." I growled out, my throat rumbling. Out of anger, I slammed my head back onto the tree, creating a sharp pain from my skull to my spin to erupt.


    Seraph said nothing as I sat in much-needed silence. I bit my lip, stopping it from trembling. I quickly stopped doing that, though, as I noticed blood oozing from my lips. I unclenched my jaw and ran my tongue along my teeth. I froze when I felt two sharp, canine-like teeth on either side of my mouth as sharp as razors. Slowly, I stuck my tongue out and barely grazed my teeth on it. Blood immediately started to pour from my tongue and I held my breath in disgust.


    It is true.


    I looked back at Luca''s body. Bite marks lingered all over his body, blood, even now, still dripped from the wounds.


    I am a vampire.

 School and Drugs

    SITTING ATOP A lankly tree branch was a red-eyed beast, staring at the mess below him. Curiouser and curiouser her grew, watching the new blood freak out like a lunatic. Crying, laughing, yelling¡ªshe was doing it all. She looked like a wreck with blood, tears and sweat coated all over her. Insanity crawls into the pores of her skin, consuming the innocent lamb into a predator. He grinned, eyes glinting as they watched her.


    How interesting.


    "What are we going to do with her?" Asked another beast, his eyes a bright green, neon in the dimness of the forest. They stood out like emeralds, hypnotic within the depths of the darkness. His hair was blond and bright, unlike the other male who wore his hair as black as the night. He gave off an angelic appearance, the perfect wolf in sheep''s clothing.


    "She clearly has the tattoo," he began again. "She''s talking to herself. A Goddess is speaking to her."


    He who was watching the feeble girl below said nothing, eyes calculating her every move. He didn''t care for his accomplices'' comments, nor did he care about the very pointed looks they gave him. He was here to watch the new girl. To look at her like that of a snake to a mouse.


    Another spoke up, this time a female. "We can''t let her go. She''s a danger to herself and everyone else if she stays alone any longer. We have to take her back with us." Her voice was girly yet fierce, sounding firm with authority. It was clear she was of importance to wherever she''s from. Unlike the blonde, she hadn''t cared of how she spoke to the black-headed male.


    Finally, the ravenette said, "we can''t. Not yet, not until the council makes a decision. You know that." The girl groaned at his statement, finding the whole situation absolutely livid with absurdity.


    "She''s not natural! You all just saw her go through the blood-stage in an instant. She should be dead." Exclaimed the brown-headed female, confused on why she had yet to be given the orders to exterminate the fledgling. "We must kill her," she said lastly, her very own red eyes glimmering as she extended her canines, which had also shimmered.


    With annoyance now, the black-haired male hissed. "But she''s not dead and we can''t kill her. Only¡ª"


    "Yeah, yeah. Only the council can make decisions. Yadda, yadda, yadda..." she grumbles.


    Red eyes narrowed his eyes at her, his eyes growing brighter by the second. "Speak down upon the counsel again and see what happens." He growled. The other male whispered something about ''kissing ass'', making the girl laugh out loud, not caring about the pointed look they were getting from the red-eyed male.


    "You''ve no authority here, presidents. It is I who rules the lands we''re on, as a¡ª"


    Brownette raised her hands in surrender. "I get it, I get it! I won''t mutter another word of the council. Sorry, I even said anything, to begin with..." trailed off the female, not wanting another argument with a statue.


    He sighed, letting go of his bottled up annoyance as he eyed the girl below them one last time.


    "Let''s go. We have reports to give." The rest of them nodded, agreeing that they should leave by now. The girl started to chant as blondie began humming.


    While they did that, the ravenette held a finger up to pause them. "Hold that thought." As he uttered those three words, he snapped his fingers. The dead corpse at the feet of the weeping girl started to levitate just a foot above the ground before it just disappeared.


    "Why did you help her?" Asked the other male curiously.


    "No reason." Just like that, a black fog emitted from a pocket in the air and consumed the trio, vanishing from the tree branches as if they weren''t there in the first place. All of this happening unbeknownst to a hysteric girl below.


    __________


    "What am I going to do..." I murmured to myself, walking in circles as I debated whether or not I should call the police and turn myself in or hide the body or be riddled with guilt and trauma my whole life. The latter option was tempting, but my humanity begged to differ. I could never live with myself now, I''ve crossed the line no human should ever cross.


    You don''t just murder someone and get away with it. You can''t. As unlucky as I am, I would never get away with this.


    As I started to roll over the list of outcomes, I failed to hear Seraph frantically talking to me, somehow blocking her out of my head where she could only talk.


    Underneath my frantic thoughts, I could hear a murmur of her voice. I stopped thinking, immediately clearing the cloud of chaos in my head to allow her to talk.


    ''...mell somebody...'' was all I could get from her before a movement in my peripheral vision grabbed my attention. My head snapped to the direction and, for only a split second, did I see Luca''s limp body floating mid-air before he disappeared completely. I shrieked, falling backward onto my elbows in pure and utter shock. Diet flung upwards and onto my already filthy attire, making my appearance all that messier.


    "What the fuck was that?" I exclaimed, shaking in fear of the unknown. Crazy shit after crazy shit has been happening to me lately. Why can''t I just catch a break? I kept my eyes in the air where Luca had been floating for quite a while until I snapped out of my daze. Frantically, I looked to the ground, only to find remains of his fluids soaking into the soil.


    I stood up, mouth agape still. "Seraph... what the hell just happened..?" I could finally find my voice.


    ''I have no idea.''


    We both grew quiet after that. The morning had already begun to shift into the day with the brightness of the sun shining through open cracks in leaves, leaving the used-to-be ominous woods friendlier. I fell onto my back, hitting my head on a root of a tree as I did so.


    Surprisingly, it didn''t hurt. My head was already so overwhelmed with everything happening that I couldn''t bother fitting anymore in it.


    "Seraph," I spoke, voice quiet yet not meaningless. "Are you really real?" By this point, I didn''t know what I wanted to believe or not. Did I want to believe that vampires are real and that I was one of them? That there''s an entity in my head coaxing me into murder? Or, perhaps, did I want to believe I was going insane, slowly succumbing into my own life insanity. That the things I''m seeing¡ªthe things I''m hearing¡ªare merely a fabrication of a disturbed mind.


    Seraph said nothing. Whether that should worry me or not failed to bother me. So, I decided upon myself to answer the question.


    I went over every detail in my life. To my first memory of playing with rubber toys in the bath to my second birthday¡ªthe day I got my first pet, even if it was just a goldfish that died a week later.


    My mind lingered to feelings I''ve lived through. The love I receive and the love I give out. The pain of fears and pain of petty obstacles, such as falling off a bike. The sadness of being heartbroken, the sadness of death. The unknown feelings, like sitting on my bed with the tickling sensation of being watched, passing a stranger that gave me vibes from hell and maybe, even the time I was being watched by the shadow in the playground. The feeling I got from there was so foreign I fear thinking of it.


    I thought of my friends at school. Avery, my best friend since fifth grade who sticks by me through any and everything. Micah, our friend since middle school and now the boyfriend of my best friend for two years. Luciana, a friend I had just made a little over three months ago but was quickly accepted into our little trio. They all cared for me as I did them. Now, I might not ever see them again.


    Lizzie, mom, Sadie... if I was crazy, then I would be sent away. To prison? To a nuthouse? I don''t know and I hope I won''t ever have to.


    Did this all happen because of Luca? The only reason I had such a... such an urge to end this madness was all because of him. How he used me, how he tore my heart apart just to fix it the way he liked it. Because of his possessiveness, controlling nature. Because of his touch¡ªa touch I didn''t want but endured anyways. I wanted him gone but he wanted himself in my head.


    He got into my head. He tore it apart and then I did the same to him. Is that so bad? Giving him what he gave me? Torturing him to death, literally.


    My throat started to hurt, a feeling I get when I start to cry. I pushed it back and continued to think.


    He gave me so much pain. He was the needle in my head, pushing himself further and further into it to stick it up, but all he did was stab me. He poisoned my head gave me habits I shouldn''t dream of having. He made me fearful of the world, gave me anxieties and paranoia beyond compare. A slave to polish the throne he had on me.


    I started to laugh. A little chuckle at first, thinking of the insanity I just went through. But, now it''ll be okay. Everything will be fine, no matter what he did to me before.


    Because he''s dead. I killed him. Not some freak accident or O.D., but I, his ex-girlfriend that he had wrapped around a chain, killed him in cold blood.


    Me.


    I laughed again. I laughed and laughed and laughed until I was under hysterics. I was laughing while crying, tears streams down my face, each tear holding a different meaning from the other. I was sad, confused, angry, and full of despair.


    Apart from those very prominent emotions, underneath, even if barely, I could feel joy.


    Even after killing him does he still break me.


    ''Stop acting crazy,'' Seraph said, her tone wary. I only laughed again, finding absolutely nothing she said funny. I couldn''t help it, I couldn''t help the laughs and giggles and tears. They just kept coming. I was gasping for air, wheezing and choking on my own cries of happiness.


    ''Genevieve.'' She called sternly. She must''ve noticed I didn''t stop and said, ''Genevieve, you''re going to drive yourself insane. Snap out of it. I can''t have a looney for a host.''


    "So¡ª" I cut myself off with another laugh, albeit softer. "Sor-ry..." The laughing fit stopped and now I could only find myself searching for more air than my lungs could fit. "...Sorry, I don''t know what came over me," I said with my voice barely audible.


    Seraph chuckled humorlessly. ''The devil did, that''s what.''


    "But, aren''t you a devil, Seraph?"


    ''...what?'' She laughed again.


    I didn''t laugh at the dumb tone she spoke in. Instead, I raised my left arm above me, shielding the sun from my bare eyes as I looked at the devils marking on my arms.


    "You''re a devil yourself, though, aren''t you?"


    ''Genevieve, you don''t get it yet, do you?'' Seraph asked. I opened my mouth to speak, but she never gave me the chance. ''I''m not a devil. I''m the devil.''


    I snickered. "Yeah, and what does that make me? Your loyal worshiper?" I joked.


    ''No, that makes you nothing.''


    _________


    By the time I made it out of the woods, I felt fine. Under any other circumstance, that would be normal. Only, I had just miles on end without any breathers nor water, just me and pure stamina. That couldn''t be normal¡ªat least, not for me. Out of habit, I stopped with my hands on my knees as I eyed the busy street.


    Why do I have so much stamina?


    ''Well, duh. You''re a vampire now, remember? Or, is your brain so small you forgot something as big as that..? Having inhuman speed is nothing compared to¡ª''


    "I didn''t ask for a lecture," I whispered grumpily, quiet out of fear of people hearing me talk to myself. If I''m not a looney, then bes'' not make myself out to be one. "Anyways, I need some new clothes." I slung the filthy bookbag around my shoulder to my chest, where I unzipped it and rummaged around for my anime wallet. It was a wallet I got when I was twelve years old and haven''t got around getting a new one.


    Plus, I still like this anime so...


    Feeling a certain cottony material, I quickly snatched the wallet and opened it up. Eighty-seven dollars, that would be enough for something simple.


    I shoved the wallet in the side compartment of the book bag and dashed for the street, careful enough to miss incoming cars but, in the back of my mind, the fear of getting hit by cars was gone by now.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    ''You''re gonna get hit if you do that again.'' Seraph scolded. I scoffed, newfound confidence swarming within me.


    "Like that could kill me," I huffed, spotting Miss Marabella''s Clothing Shop. Flooded with relief, I dashed in that direction, my book bag hitting my back repeatedly. Seraph just sighed like a disappointed mother.


    ''No, but that would cause complications when people realize you survived being hit by a semi, head-on. Not so smart, are we, Genevieve.''


    I actually hadn''t thought of that. Which, makes sense. If I saw someone get hit by a semi¡ªby any moving vehicle, for that matter¡ªgoing full speed and walking away like it was nothing, I would be mortified.


    ''Let''s just keep being a vampire under wraps for, like, forever. We don''t want another witch hunt.'' I furrowed brows. I walked in the clothes shop, trying my best to ignore the disgusted looks people were giving me as I did.


    What? I''m not a witch, I thought, playing it safe in my head. I already looked sketchy coming in here looking like the mess I am. Imagine being caught talking to myself? I didn''t need to get kicked out before I got at least a new shirt.


    ''Might as well be to them.'' I didn''t respond back but instead went on my search for new clothes. I would need at least a shirt and pants and that was it. I found a simple stripped back and white shirt with a collar around the neck. It was something mother would approve of, so I got it along with some plain blue jeans.


    I walked up to the cash register and handed her my clothes while I paid, trying my hardest to ignore the cold-hearted glare she was giving me.


    "Umm..." she spoke snottily, twirling a piece of hair between her index finger, "are you, like, okay? Shouldn''t you take a shower or sumthin''?"


    I bit my lip, holding back any mean comments. "I''m fine, just tripped." I mean, that wasn''t completely false. I tripped (a lot) but that wasn''t necessarily where the dirt came from.


    "Is that blood..?" She asked yet another question, pointed at my chest which, indeed, was stained in Luca''s blood. My stomach did a flip at the thought.


    "No, its mud." My things rung up and she handed me my recipe. "Thanks," I mumbled, snatching the bag from her manicured hands. She probably wanted to say something else, but I was already out the door.


    I sighed, the anxiety slowly leaving me. God, that was hard. Today was hard and its not even over yet.


    I glance towards the bag in my hands, content. At least something went alright today. After thinking that, I paled.


    Did I really just but clothes like this morning never happened? God, I''m a nutcase already.


    ''Well, expect this every day. Vampires need blood. Human blood, mind you.''


    Wait, the anxiety that just left me quickly came crawling back at my feet, I... have to ki-kill people again..? I can''t do that. I won''t do it!


    Seraph laughed¡ªlong and hard. If she had volume to herself, I imagined her being loud like a horse. ''Oh, hell''s no! You don''t have to kill people, just drink from them.''


    I groaned. Can''t I just get raw meat from the supermarket and eat that or something...


    ''Nope, if it were that easy then there would probably be vampires everywhere. Plus, that shit''s nasty. You''d crave the real stuff¡ªthe warm, intoxicating blood pumping through a human''s veins. You''ll drink again, they all do.''


    "Yeah, well," I snorted, "not if I cure this bloody disease." Again, she laughed like a hyena, going about it for a good minute.


    ''Funny¡ªthat was funny. I think I like you, host. I just might.''


    My eye twitched. Better drop the subject as is, I didn''t want to get annoyed again. Last time I got annoyed... well, it wasn''t good for both parties. I drowned my annoyance in a new target: finding a restaurant I could get dressed in since Miss Marabella''s Clothing Shop doesn''t have the luxury of a changing room (oddly enough). Luckily, I found a McDonalds right around the corner. Jogging, I rush past people to get to the bathroom.


    I ditched in front of some lady and her kid, muttering an apology. I was going through all this trouble just to go to school. School, after I murdered someone with just a bite. Like it was a casual thing to do. After all the regret, I didn''t care anymore. He got what was coming for him, he got death after almost putting me at its hands several times before. I feel bad I killed a person, but not that it was him.


    ''Already thinking like a monster, I like it.'' Seraph was necessarily commented, halting my movement of putting a shirt over my head.


    "I''m not a monster. Remember, I''m nothing." I grumbled, putting my arms through the holes.


    ''Yes, but, you are a vampire. Anything inhuman automatically equals monstrosity. Welcome to the wondrous world of being a monster in human flesh.'' Her voice was laced so deep in sarcasm I could have drowned in it.


    "Not me. I''m still human."


    ''Okay, let me make this easier for you. Be a human and be a murderer or be a monster and be a predator. Human are pray to us, just like cattle to humans. If you choose humanity, you''re a murderer.'' Seraph exclaimed with insight, pulling me from my hole in the ground. I was still, taking in what she just said.


    "I don''t wanna be a murderer. I want to live and love like a normal girl. How can I live my life normally after I committed a crime worth years of my life."


    ''You can''t. You''re already dead.'' The need to cry faded as it was replaced with a sorrowful laugh.


    "At least I''m not a disembodied voice." I counter. She was silent after that and I felt victorious. What is with me today with all my mood swings? Hopefully, within the next second my next mood isn''t murderous, I joked. Whatever the case, I went along with zipping my pants and walking out the stall.


    The lady I cut stood there, arms cross. "You''re an awfully rude young lady." She uncrossed her arms and motioned her child in the stall. I rolled my eyes, even though I was very at fault, and went to the sink to wash my face.


    "Done," I said to myself. After like... wait what time is it? I grabbed the phone out of my pocket and checked the time. It read 9:47, meaning I''ve spent three hours in absolute hell.


    ''Off to school, I presume? My, what a good girl you all. You know, apart from killing your ex-boy toy and all. And cutting that nice, old lady off. Oh, don''t forget¡ª''


    I get it, I get it! Just let me at least act like my life is not going to complete shit, yeah? I just really need to see a nice face right now.


    I grabbed my book bag and after setting my destination in Google Maps, finally went off to school.


    ''I can''t believe you''re going to school right now.''


    __________


    After thirty minutes of energetic running, I finally made it to Montana High School. I felt no exhaustion whatsoever, which would need some getting used to. I felt a wave of fear as I pressed the button to the office, waiting to be buzzed in because my school has a weird but very needed security system. I heard a loud noise from the speakers; it was the ok to come in.


    I did and pulled out the quick ten-second excuse note from my ''mom''. After years of practicing, I mastered my mom''s handwriting for things like field trips she didn''t need to know about.


    I walking in the office, showing off a very practiced kind smile. It was the kiss-ass smile, the one all teachers fell for. But, what''s a nice smile without the voice to match?


    "Hello, Mrs. Winchester! How are you this morning?" I queried, handing her the slip. Miss Winchester, the receptionist, matched my smile and sighed like she was currently during the crisis of her life.


    "God awful, I tell ya. My son has caught the flu and was just the needly little thing last night. Got no sleep," she sighed. She was a little too talkative, but she was a nice lady. Her son is her main topic of each day, him being six years old.


    I nodded. "That sucks. Hope he gets well soon." I added, genuinely. I loved small chat with Mrs. Winchester and her son seemed like a good kid. Nothing like me, I unconsciously added, making me grow pale.


    "I¡ªUh, can I go to class now?" I asked, averting my eyes from her face. I heard her stop monologuing made a noise of confusion.


    "Dear, are you alright?" She reached for my upper arm and I didn''t respond to it. Deep breaths, Genevieve. Deep breaths.


    So, I mustered up a plastic smile and met her eyes once more. "Yeah, sorry... I just got an earful from mom about being late and all..." I added with false sadness. Mrs. Winchester nodded understandingly and let go of her grip on my arm.


    "Oh, I''m sorry them. Surely she won''t be mad at you all day." She smiled up at me. Guilt filled me from my core at her innocent, motherly smile.


    I can''t live with this guilt.


    ''You have to.''


    I ground my teeth. Seraph always only spoke the fact I didn''t need to hear. Didn''t want to hear.


    After typing something into her computer and writing along a pink piece of rectangular paper, Mrs. Winchester handed me my late slip. "And here ya go. Have a good day, sweetheart. Actually, wait a moment," she looked towards her lap and rummaged through what I assumed to be her pockets. She then pulled out a piece of candy wrapped in a peppermint-looking wrapper. "Take this, it might brighten up your day some."


    The guilt was now eating me inside out. I don''t deserve that candy. Really, I don''t. She was too nice of a person to be talking to me anymore. After what I did, I could never amount to anything good.


    Even so, I took the piece of candy and placed it in my bookbag. With a Barbie-like smile, I said, "thanks a bunch, Mrs. Winchester. Really."


    I turned around and left the office, the smile on my face immediately dropping into a monochrome frown. It was depressing, really. How I ruined my life just merely hours ago and was going to school like nothing had ever happened. Thankfully, I would hear nothing about Luca since he was a freshman in college and didn''t go to my school, being a high school.


    My hand clenched and unclenched around the tardy slip, mind wavering off as I walked through the school''s corridors. Our school was one of the largest populated in Montana and seeing that it was obvious our school was massive. Thankfully, I memorized the layout in my sophomore year.


    Trapped in an everlasting daze, I failed to realize directly in front of me was someone heading straight in my direction, their head seemingly also stuck in the clouds. Their shoulders bumped into me, causing my body to jerk sideways and stumble on my feet.


    Ouch! What the hell? I went to look at whoever I ran into, only to find air. Uh, that''s weird... I swear I ran into someone... there were no rooms in this part of the hallway unless you go further up or further down.


    ''Maybe if you kept your head outta your ass, you would have known if someone was there or not.'' Scolded Seraph. I could tell she was already done with my oblivious and clumsy attitude. Nothing I could help, though.


    Well sor-ry, princess...


    ''Don''t call me that again, host.''


    Then, I thought in a remark, don''t call me host.


    She said nothing back. Sighing, I gripped the bridge of my nose and continued walking to third period. Third period was British Literature, something I absolutely despised. Luckily for me, I was only in for the second half of english, knowing that my English class was second through third period and they were already thirty minutes into class.


    ''School is rather pointless for you to know,'' said Seraph. I almost scoffed but feared being caught doing that to myself by by-passers.


    I would rather not be stupid, thanks though. Maybe you should thank me I''m going to school for us...


    I could hear her ego growing. ''Hmph, as if. I''m smarter than any of these humans could ever hope to be.''


    I finally reached English. Why the hell was this class literally the further class in the whole school? I, as usual, ignored Seraph and quietly opened the door.


    Several faces whipped upwards from their papers to stare at me. One face being Avery, who started glaring at me. I sheepishly smiled at her before turning to a very annoyed Miss Greene.


    Miss Greene crossed an arm over her chest and held the other outwards to me. "Tardy slip, Miss Paris." She demanded, not even bothering to ask nicely. For the second time today, I grounded my teeth together and handed her the very crumbled up slip. Disgusted, she opened it and nodded in approval. "Very well, then. Go on, sit down and I''ll give you the directional sheet. We''re proofreading our essays today and starting the final draft if you''ve finished."


    Nodding, I (very awkwardly) walked down the aisle to the spot next to Avery. The only hood thing about Miss Greene was her respect for friendships. I didn''t miss the pissed off look Avery was casting in my direction. Probably trying to cast a hoax on me, most likely.


    I sat down, immediately slouching. God, I''ve been walking and running all day and sitting down felt so relaxing. I could fall asleep if I wasn''t in English.


    Miss Greene walked down the aisle, her stance holding pure authority with her back straight and head held high. She handed me my paper and left, but not without giving me that look. By that look, I mean the look of disappointment.


    ''She wouldn''t be disrespecting us if  we had her on the ground in her own blood.'' Seraph''s God-complex came out, sending a bloodlust invading my senses. I gripped the pen in my hand and closed my eyes.


    One... two... three... I started counting in my head. Seraph would not control my emotions ever again.


    A tap on my side helped me calm down, somehow. With a small sigh leaving my chapped lips, I turned to Avery and offered her an apologetic smile. As expected, she huffed and pointed her nose to the ceiling.


    I scribbled on the side of my paper lightly so I could erase it later.


    I''m sorry I''m late, I stayed up all night doing homework and slept in... :(


    I sucked the insides of my cheeks from frowning. Now, I''m lying to my best friend. Too many changes for me than I''d like to admit.


    ''Yeah, and don''t forget the bloodsucking part.'' Somehow, I could feel Seraph''s smile in my head.


    Avery turned her paper sideways to write on. Turning it to face me, it read: yeah right, i know ur ass was up all night watching anime.


    I would have laughed. That statement would actually be very true for our situation if I was late before my accident. The number of times Avery caught me in my lie for ''doing homework'' when I was just watching My Villian Academia was countless.


    It''s a good ass anime, that''s my excuse.


    ''What is this anime?'' Asked Seraph, making me choke on my spit. Everyone turned to me with a ''what-the-fuck'' look and went back to their papers. Miss Greene had to be extra about it and give me a snotty look before going back to her computer.


    You''re joking. Aren''t you supposed to be smart, Seraph? I questioned, genuinely confused. She talked like she was the shit and was omniscient. Guess not, after all.


    ''I have you know that I haven''t been awakened for nearly centuries, host. I just need a bit of a refresher of your time, is all...''


    I laughed. A granny, then? It''s ok, I used to volunteer at a nursing home.


    She went to reply (angrily, at that) but Avery intervened. Instead of writing, she whispered, "what is going on? Are you on drugs?" Her voice was serious and non-joking. Which, ended up making me laugh again.


    "Is there a problem, Miss Paris?" Miss Greene was by my desk now. How she is so stealthy I would never now.


    "No, Miss Greene. I''m sorry." Her eye twitched at my emphasis on the word miss. She replied with no snarky comments but instead just walked back to her desk.


    I turned back to Avery. Who, by the way, was giving me an extremely annoyed look. "I''m not talking any drugs, what are you on?" It was kind of crazy that she did come up with that assumption. I''ve always been straight edge and would never turn to drugs¡ªI know what they do to people and their families.


    She sighed. "You''re the one laughing to yourself and making these stupid expressions..."


    I put a hand to my heart, pulling yet another stupid face. "Ouch, you wound me, dear bestie. And can I not laugh to myself? I was thinking of something that was funny."


    ''I don''t really like this girl,'' Seraph concluded. I rolled my eyes, not even bothering to respond.


    "Well¡ªbut..." Avery puckered her lips. "Fine, you know what, you''re right. Sorry, I even asked." She pouted, looking at her paper and away from me.


    I gave her a knowing look. "I know you''re just mad I was late for homeroom and you look awkward waiting for me the whole time." By the look of embarrassment on her face, I knew I was right. I giggled softly, covering my mouth from being any louder.


    Avery gave me and mean look and started jotting things down on her paper. "No, you''re wrong snd conceited."


    When she met my gaze, I rolled my eyes. "Right, okay. Totally." She responded by huffing and looking away from me again. Something must''ve caught her eyes because her head snapped back towards me with an incredulous look.


    What, I mouthed. She shook her head and pulled the sleeve of my Tee slightly and my eyes widened. She was looking at the mud on my arm I recklessly forgot to wash off.


    Seraph almost sneerer. ''You''re going to get caught! You need to be more careful, you stupid girl!'' I ignored her again. I mean, I couldn''t really talk to her without spacing out and raising more questions from Avery.


    "Why is there mud on you?" She asked, eyes curious and confused. I frowned, acting like I didn''t know what she was talking about. I looked back at my arm and ''thought'' about it for a second.


    My lips formed an ''O'' as I nodded my head. "I went through the woods this morning and a dirty branch hit me." I confidently confirmed. She looked as if she didn''t believe me.


    Okay, that should have done it.


    ''It better''ve. Or else that would only mean bad news and we had enough of that today.''


    "Genevieve," Avery said my name with a quiet voice. "Where did this blood come from..?"

 Bittersweet Lies

    I BIT MY TONGUE. There was a way out of this¡ªthere is always a way out of any situation possible. If that was true, then why was it so goddamn hard to find a good lie in time? Seraph was wailing within my head of my stupidity as I pondered some more.


    Time to act for an Oscar, I thought with conclusion.


    Like I had when Avery questioned me about the mud, I moved my hand to the place where she was pointing to, which had to be my neck, a blind spot.


    I rubbed two fingers along the spot, feeling the dry blood off my skin as I pulled away and ''analyzed'' the blood.


    "Hmm, I dunno? Maybe the branch cut me or something." I played it off, continuing to wipe the blood off my skin. Some of it came off and the rest smeared even more. Anxiety ripped through me as it kept smearing and smearing, all whilst Avery was giving me a weird look.


    I raised my hand. Miss Greene raised an eyebrow and allowed me to speak. "May I use the ladies'' room?" I made sure to ask in what she calls the ''appropriate'' way as I really didn''t want any other problems.


    Miss Greene puckered her lips as she thought about it. Most likely pissed that I said may instead of can. Nevertheless, she responded with, "yes, I suppose you may. Be back within fifteen minutes, Miss Paris." I nodded while smiling.


    Before I left my seat, I looked at Avery and mouthed ''be right back''. She nodded, both confused and curious. She was always the nosiest person in our little group and right now I wish she wasn''t.


    ''She''s gonna follow us,'' commented Seraph, distaste sugarcoating each word. I shook my head.


    She can''t, Miss Greene is a bitch with punctuality and rules. It would be a miracle if she allowed Avery to follow me. With my little bit of information, Seraph hummed, not all that convinced.


    Walking in the nearest restroom, I quickly headed to a stall, grabbed some toilet paper and went back towards the sinks. I wish it was wipes, but who was I to complain?


    ''You should have done this from the beginning!'' Seraph tried to scold me in my head, but since she was in my head her tone could get no louder.


    I rolled my eyes. Right, like how you should have just kept you bloodlust to yourself, but you didn''t. Look where we are. It was true¡ªwhat I just said, but at the same time, the double meaning behind it said otherwise.


    Seraph''s bloodlust did make me want to kill Luca. But, I could have stopped after one bite. I felt myself return to sanity, but I just like insanity all that better. My emotions, my thoughts and my pain drove me to finish him.


    And I couldn''t feel any better.


    ''Yes, but you killed him, not me. Your hands, your teeth, your anger. That was all you, Genevieve.'' I knew that already. I killed him on my own accord and the guilt left me by now, each bit leaving second after second until the last thing I could feel about his murder was relief.


    And I would do it again. In a heartbeat.


    ''You don''t have a heartbeat, anymore.''


    I laughed. Like, really laughed. That kind of laugh you give when your friend does something so stupid you just cant help yourself. I clutched my sides, aching when I laughed even just a second.


    ''I really hope you don''t go insane.'' Seraph said when I finished laughing. I grinned, wiping the last of the visible blood off my and threw the tissues into a toilet, flushing the evidence away.You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    No, not insane. My emotions are just everywhere. I don''t know if what Seraph said about my emotions earlier today was true or not, but I really hoped so. If it wasn''t true, then I just might actually be going insane.


    Bringing the small sleeves down on my shirt, I smiled at myself in the mirror in approval. Just to be certain the job was well done, I started a small turn-around while still looking at myself. When I was satisfied that nothing could be seen anymore, I breathed in relief. All of this tiresome work just over Luca. Luca, as in the dead missing corpse of my ex-boyfriend.


    Damn, even after I killed him does he still haunt me. I bit my lip, feeling my small wave of happiness be washed at shore by a stronger wave if anger.


    Why am I so emotional all the time? I said to myself in my thoughts, grabbing the straps of my book bag to being over my shoulder. I stole a look at the clock above my head. Okay, I was only gone for ten minutes. That''s good.


    ''You''ll be emotional for a while. You should just get used to it. This is why fledglings stay with dhampirs so they can control thei¡ªnevermind.'' I intently listened to this new piece of information closely until she suddenly decided not to finish.


    I stopped readying myself to leave. Crossing my arms over my chest like and cocking an eyebrow, I acted as if Seraph was standing in front of me.


    What was that? I quipped. She was, as expected, silent.


    Was she not allowed to speak of it? Was there someone higher than her? Was there even someone like her¡ªno, like us?


    "What were you gonna say?" I asked again, this time out loud. I don''t know why, but I feel like talking to Seraph through my voice rather than thoughts hold more... I don''t know, demanding power? If my voice did have that sort of effect, it didn''t work on her because she still had nothing more to say to me. Which made me curious and furious.


    I hated being left out of loops. Loops that I''m stuck in, too. She was speaking about... what was the word again. Hamps... dandires... wait, I remember.


    Dhampirs. Yeah, that was the word. But, what were those?


    Maybe a mix between vampires and demons, I considered a finger on my chin. Seraph laughed for an abrupt second, catching me off guard as I tensed up. She, probably noticing she broke her ''ignoring Genevieve until she drops the subject'' rule, stopped laughing.


    "What? Was that not it? That was my best guess too..." I heaved a sigh. Whatever, she would have to tell me one day.


    I''m a... vampire now. So, one day I would have to know about it, right? Wasn''t I by blood?


    I shook the thought away. If Seraph wanted me to drop it, I would for now. But, as soon as I get home, I was going to do some research.


    _________


    "That was quite the long break, Miss Paris." I barely got one foot in before Miss Greene started whining at me. I rolled my eyes (that were looking at my shoes) and said nothing as I walked to my seat with all eyes on me the second time today.


    "She''wa prolly taking a nasty shit," whispered Harry evilly to his twin sister, Harriet. They giggled to themselves, earning a loot from Miss Greene.


    "Excuse me?" Bellowed Miss Greene, pulling her glasses off her nose as if she couldn''t believe what just heard.


    Harry paled as I took my seat, eyes still on the twins. I grinned when the two of them visibly looked in nerve.


    "N-Nothing, ma''am..." Harriet spoke for her brother. Most likely noticing that her brother wouldn''t say anything. My attention from their scolding was interrupted when Avery decided to wave a hand in front if my face.


    Slightly disappointed I wouldn''t be seeing what else happened, I focused my attention to Avery. She had the same expression on she did before I left to use the restroom. Confused yet worried. She made a look at me, thinking as she analyzed me from reading me inside out like a book. We were best friends since elementary school, she knows me better than I know myself. I know she doesn''t believe my lies, even though it would be better for her if she would.


    "We''ll talk about this at lunch. Whatever''s going on, you can tell me. I promise." True to the words she spoke, she looked away with the tilt of her pen, writing down a mess of thoughts on paper.


    I nodded, although she couldn''t see it, and did the same. My writing assignment was fictional (like many other students around me, most likely) and focused on a girl who was trusted into a world where everything right was wrong and upside down was right side up. She was also riddled with amnesia, making her journey that much harder to figure out.


    Amnesia, I wonder... what if I got that, would my problems go away? That would be nice.


    ''No, you''d be just covering them up with a fraudulent face.'' Seraph just had to ruin my dream.


    Can''t a woman dream? I thought begrudgingly, bring my chin to rest in my palm as the other held a pen to write.


    ''Of course, they can. But, you''re no women. Nothing but a monster wrapped in beautiful plastic now.'' Seraph spoke in a new tone. She said that in such a gentle manner, each word holding a meaning near and dear to herself. I wondered what she went through to believe such words.


    Yes, I am. I can still dream. You, too.


    She laughed. ''Monster''s don''t dream. We are the fuel in nightmares, we haunt.''

 Bad Smell

    THE BELL SIGNALING THE end of third period went off, nearly shocking me to my core. Everyone began collecting their things and packing away, some already laughing and talking in their friend groups. I sighed, pulling my book bag from the back of my chair and also putting my things in it.


    Someone tapped my shoulder. By the scent, I knew it was Avery. She always had a peculiar smell, and today that smell, which had been lemons and sugar, heightened to be a stronger, finer smell of a fresh bakery. I guess having parents who own a bakery will do that.


    "What''s up?" I asked, putting on a smile. It felt disgusting; to fake a smile for everyone. If I wanted to live life out of prison, I would need to get used to this. Even if I''m losing some humanity on the way.


    "I''m skipping fourth to hang out with Tristen, catch you at lunch." She sent me one of my smiles. I could tell she was worried about me and me keeping quiet is eating her away inside out. I could never fully tell her, it would ruin me¡ªruin her. She wouldn''t ever believe my story. One thing leads to the other and she''s calling my mom about psyche wards.


    I nodded. "''Kay, see you too." She nodded too and was about to leave ahead of me before I decided to quickly say, "And since when were you and he a thing? What about Vic?" Last I heard, Vic and Avery were still a thing.


    Avery sent me a grim smile. "Since Vic dumped me." I didn''t even get a chance to say anything or sympathize with her before she put a hand up. She didn''t want to talk about it.


    "Alrighty then, if he acts up, you bes'' tell me." I joked to brighten the mode¡ªwell, sort if joked. This newfound vampirism gave me the confidence I never knew I needed and I probably could whoop that 6''4'''' teenager. Or, I could at least scare him senselessly to the point where he thinks he''s going insane. No one would believe I was a vampire, anyway.


    ''Some will. There are people that know about us, Genevieve. I need you to remember that. You''re never safe.'' Seraph said. My mood instantly dropped and I felt a creepy sensation crawl down my spine at her words.


    "Gotcha. See ya later, Eve. And you better spill at lunch, ''kay?" She didn''t wait for my reply as she bolted out the door. I thought it was time I leave too, so I pulled my bookbag around my shoulders and walked out the door. The hallways were flooded with students, some lingering in the hallways and others walking to their next class. For the slightest second, I saw Avery walking with a boy before turning into a hallway.


    So that was Tristen, I hummed within my thoughts. I''ve heard of him before but never actually seen him until now. Even though it was just his back.


    ''Looks delicious...'' Seraph commented. I could practically hear her salivating. Her hunger pushed on me and caused my stomach to growl. My teeth began to ache again and I had to grit them in order to stop the growth.


    Stop doing that, its disgusting. I growled to her telepathically. She laughed at me and made mocking sounds like she was addressing a peasant.


    ''Stop what? To be hungry is natural, Genevieve. Embrace it already,'' her words were honeyed. I imagined her stuck to my back, long black talons gripping my shoulders as she tried to coax me into my animalistic desires.


    I tried my best to ignore her as I made my way to fourth period. She kept mocking me, calling my hypocritical for not wanting to kill someone to survive when I''ve already done just that. I ground my teeth and cast my direction to the floor, my hands gripping the straps of my backpack harder.


    She was wrong. I didn''t do that; she did. She killed Luca, not me. If it weren''t for her then he would still be breathing and kicking.


    ''Yes, that is true. But, would you?'' I chose not to answer. In my heart, I knew the answer to that but I would rather not think of it.


    This was crazy. Within a day has my life changed for the worst. I''ve tried putting my actions this morning behind me like an insane person devoid of humanity. I couldn''t, it was impossible when I was surrounded by so many people I care about and who in return care about me. How can I just act like I never murdered Luca¡ªno, not me... It was Seraph. Yeah, it was her. I could never kill someone, anyways.


    Seraph laughed at me like she always did, finding my horror and demise delightful. I bit my lip from yelling out loud and shuffled through the crowds. People gave me incredulous looks as I passed them roughly and quickly.


    On accident, I ran into the shoulder of some tall guy, knocking me backward but not hard enough to knock me down.


    "What the fuck? Watch where you''re going¡ªGenny?" I looked up to meet the gaze of the voice. My eyes widened and sheer panic enters me. It was Miles, a.k.a Luca''s best friend since they were practically babies. Luca was two years older than Miles, explaining why Miles in my grade and not with Luca. Miles and I used to be good friends actually until Luca and I split. Miles knew what Luca did to me and how trapped I was. Miles knew how fucked up Luca''s view of women and relationships was but he never said a word about it. But, as Miles stated, he was just overprotective.Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    Regaining my composure, I readjusted my backpack and excused myself. "I-I gotta go," I mumbled and darted away. Well, tried to at least. About to pass Miles, he grabbed my backpack and stopped me, causing me to jerk back onto him.


    My heart froze. Wait, that still worked? Miles closed the distance between us. I could hear, no, feel his heartbeat. It was so pretty sounding, like a siren calling to me. Since he was so close to me, his heartbeat was as loud a chiming a bell with you inside it. I couldn''t help but wonder what his blood would taste like.


    "Wait, Genny." I didn''t bother looking at him. I was scared he would see a monster and not Genny. "Have you seen Luca? He texted me this morning saying he was skipping lectures with you. Why are you here?" I stiffened. Luca was never planning on taking me to school, after all. I knew he had ulterior motives. That asshole, good riddance he''s dead¡ªno, stop that, don''t think like that. It was an accident he was dead. One thing led to another, I never intended to kill him.


    I cleared my throat. "What? I haven''t seen him since he walked me to school. He said he was late or something." I was so thankful for my ability to lie. Living with a strict mother gives you that trait and I wasn''t so sure that was a good or bad thing to have in life. Right now, it sure as hell was good. Miles nodded but didn''t let go of me, as if he was thinking hard about what I said. Miles was a strong thinker, everything you said was analyzed beneath his analytic eyes. It''s said you could never lie to him, but I just did. "Umm," I started, unnerved by this, "can you let me go? I have trig."


    Miles gave me a weird look before noticing his hold on me. Quickly, he let me go and blushed furiously. He gave me an apologetic smile. "Sorry ''bout that." I nodded and turned away, not saying goodbye. I was scared my voice would break and expose me of lying.


    He didn''t live up to his title. How easy was that? Lying to him.


    ''Look at you, thinking like a criminal. You''ll age well,'' commented Seraph tremulously. ''He smelt good, didn''t he? He likes you, you know. Why don''t you ask him out tonight for dinner? The easiest way to lure food is to give those who like you a false sense of security, y''know. He would be the perfect fool.''


    He is not food, you monster. He''s human, I''m human. I can¡ª


    ''Hahaha! Oh my God, are you still on that humanity shit? For fucks sake, Genevieve! I''m getting impatient here! Just give in. Eat him! Taunt him until he begs for his life and when he does, you fucking devour him. C''mon, it''s so easy.'' She giggled maniacally. His laughter was so, so annoying that I grabbed my ears as if that would help the war in my head.


    What happened to your rationality, you fucking beast? You really are a monster. Seraph was just commenting on how I need to keep any and all supernatural abilities under wrap this morning and yet here she was, urging me to kill a man not even six hours after the first.


    ''What happened was hunger, dear host. I''m so hungry I can''t stand it, I need food.''


    I scoffed, trying to push back the hunger she was making me feel. My stomach growled again. You just... ate. You shouldn''t be hungry. When the thought left me, my stomach growled. Seraph laughed at me, mocking me sinisterly. Ignoring her taunts and the constant growling in my stomach, I continued to walk to fourth period.


    I listened closely to everything around me in an attempt to drown Seraph''s voice. Countless of feet were tapping against the broken tile, some slow and other''s running. Voices clashed together like an ungodly sympathy, my ears overwhelmed by female laughter. I saw a few careless groups of people, those who showed up to class late without a care in the world. Could never be me.


    The bell rang as soon as I enter Mr.s Neilson''s class. I let out a thankful sigh, loosening the grip on my bag as I walked to my seat in the back row. I usually aimed for the back row in any classroom and I always got it. Not because of violence of anything, in the beginning of the year you get to choose what seat you want¡ªyou know, early bird gets the worm type of thing. That day, I just made sure to be the first to each of my classes. Even if I waited a while, it was well worth it.


    I sighed, taking my favorite mechanical pencil out of my backpack to ready myself fora god-forsaken test. I was, undoubtedly, going to fail. I was never good at math and trig just happened to have it out for me.


    ''Like Luca did,'' I clenched my teeth at Seraph''s comment. She just couldn''t shut her mouth, could she? What was done is done, there was nothing I could do about that and honestly, if I could fix the past I would choose not to. He had what was coming, even if the guilt consumes me. The sadist in me knew what was right and what needed to be done. I just needed that little push. ''You really were a good choice for my host. You know, I waited for you to show up for three days, right? So interesting...''


    I snorted. People next to me looked my way, weirded out. Yeah right, you didn''t choose me; it was coincidental. There was no way a flower would have known I would be entering the woods at that time of night.


    ''Was it really?'' Her question alone had me questioning. Just who in the hell was Seraph? Seraph didn''t wait for me to answer when she said, ''anyways, we have bigger problems on our hands right now.''


    I frowned. Already? I figured this vampire thing wouldn''t go down so smoothly, but this many conflicts in one damn day was absurd. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath before releasing in seconds later. Yeah, and what would that be?


    I expected her to giggle like the psycho creep she was, but I could hear her sigh. As long as I''ve known Seraph, her not being a total lunatic was never a good sign. This only meant worse news.


    ''Trouble. I can''t go into detail right now, there could be people listening. We''ll talk when we get home. In the meantime...'' Instantaneously, a strange scent hit my nose. It foul and mouthwatering at the same time, like spraying dead bodies with perfume. The smell was so strong I had to put my head down on my desk to get rid of suspicious eyes wandering towards my repulsed state. Holy hell, what kind of awful perfume are people putting on now? Whatever it was, it was so strange.


    I like the smell, but at the same it, it repulses me.


    Hey, Seraph. What is that? I asked her. I felt like she would know the answer to all my new problems. She was the reason I have so many conflicts now, anyways. Seraph was silent. Seraph? Still no answer. The smell slowly and agonizingly grew stronger and stronger as each second passed. That''s when I knew it was not just a smell; it was someone.


    ''Keep to yourself, Genny. Don''t talk to anyone you don''t know. I won''t be able to talk to you for the rest of the day, but I''m here. If anything goes downhill, you''ll be fine.'' What the hell? I grew anxious in my seat by her sentence. If I wasn''t on edge before, I definitely was now. Was she scaring me on purpose?


    What? I don''t un¡ª


    ''Don''t let them catch us.''

 New Students

    I BIT MY LIP. Seraph left me, well, not wholly, but she won''t respond to me anymore no matter how much I begged and threatened her. Something was off¡ªterribly so. Everything today has been off, but the feeling deep in my chest right now was downright terrifying. It was like something bigger than me was coming, something that I couldn''t stop.


    Maybe I was just being overdramatic. Seraph did say my emotions would be all over the place for a while. That included my sense of paranoia. Maybe the smell was just someone''s bad house smell, or like I said earlier a new perfume. At least, I was hoping that it was nothing to worry about. But as the smell was right outside the classroom door, I just knew that that hope had dimmed down like water to a flame.


    I couldn''t help but feel consumed in anxiety exclusively. I wish I could be left alone in peace, to take this so-called vampirism slowly and get used to my new chaotic life before any more shit piles up on my plate.


    The door to the classroom opened, at last, shutting up the slight chitchat that was surfacing the room. Most, like myself, were curious why Mr. Neilson was late to class. I suppose that the three foreign students walking in behind him answered our unsaid question. Like I said before, this town was smaller than a dime¡ªeveryone knew everyone and their personal business. I know a new face when I see one.


    I scrunched my nose in disgust. Oh, my God. That''s where the vile smell was coming; from the new students. No wonder, now it all makes sense. The new smell and new faces. Whatever laundry softener or perfume they use needs an upgrade as soon as possible. As I was in the back of the classroom suffocating in their strong scent, my peers seemed to have different opinions on them. Way different opinions.


    They were all gawking at the three, eyes sparkling with a glint that could only mean no good. Like fresh, new toys for children to play with. I would have rolled my eyes at their obvious attraction, if not for me feeling the exact same way.


    They were... beautiful. They held their ground like royalty, heads held high, but one was held the highest. It was the male in the middle, he held head upright and his eyes never strayed from the path ahead of him. How nice would it be to have that kind of confidence, I wonder. I could never, not with my social anxiety. Paying for my own things at the convenience store was torture enough, I couldn''t imagine moving to a new school.


    Mr. Neilson must''ve been talking because he suddenly slammed a book on the desk with a great annoyance. "Enough wondering into space. Good God, this class..." fourth period may or may not be his worst enemy. It was the class filled with troublemakers, as stated by the teacher himself. Most listened to Mr. Neilson and gave him their full attention whereas the other 2% kept gawking at the new students. I almost felt bad for them. Almost.


    They looked, I don''t know... kind of suspicious, in a way. Not that they wore sketchy outfits or had odd antics. It was just a feeling in my chest as I looked at them. They were aliens in here.


    "For a while, they will be your classmates until further notice. Be nice and if you can, show them the ropes of the school." The girls nodded excessively, happy to oblige. I made no gesture, still looking at them with curious eyes. What was so weird about them? Maybe it was just the smell putting me off. They smelt horrendous, after all. I don''t know how they walk out of their home like that smell is nonexistent. Maybe I wasn''t used to being in a room with beautiful people¡ªno offense to the students in Roselynn High. It was clear that they had amazing genes. And, it was clear that I did not, sadly.


    "If you would introduce yourselves. I''vent all day, sheesh..." He was miserable. I would be too, if my wife left me for my father. Poor him.


    The first one to talk was the female. She walked forwards a bit, the sound of her wedges clicking. She flashed us all an angelic smile. "Hey all, I''m Catherine Smith, but please call me Catty." She laughed shortly, definitely earning a few admirers from that. She flicked a piece of blonde hair behind her shoulder, smiling like a goddess to her people. She and her friends definitely come from some sort of noble/rich-like family. You could tell by her demeanor and the way she talks. Her eyes looked over the students, and when they met mine, I saw those innocent eyes flash devilishly for the smallest second that if I wasn''t so initiative I would have thought to have imagined it. What was that about?


    The three stood in silence before Catherine nudged the blonde boy beside her. He gave her a mean look before realization dawned on him. He scratched the back of his head as he said, "haha, sorry ''bout that. I''m Jaymes Killion, nice to meet ya." He smiled with closed eyes. He seemed like he wanted to be anywhere but here.


    Amelee Springs, one of the most liked girls in my school, clapped her hands excitedly in her seat. "Wow, you''re gorgeous. If you need any help, just ask for Amelee." Her grin reached her eyes. One of her friends giggled next to her nudged her in the ribs like she couldn''t believe she said that. I already knew the new blood would be hunted Amelee''s group. They liked to have attractive people within their ranks. Guess I know why I''m not her friend. Not that I would want to be her friend, anyways. Their group had too much enthusiasm for my liking.


    Jaymes nodded shyly. "Thanks..." Amelee laughed at him.


    The last male broke up their flirting. "Rintarou Philips pleased to meet your acquaintance." Now, almost everyone was baffled by not only his absolute and utter beauty, but the way he spoke brought out many''s inner princess/prince dream. We didn''t have much to do in this town so reading was a thing everyone loved to do, as far as I know. A book called ''New Dawn by Blood'' was the talk of the town and had everyone falling head over heels for the main vampiric prince character, Benji. He was the fantasy of this small town of boring people, I suppose. I''ve read the book as well, but it didn''t really satisfy my favorite theme of blood and gore, it was pure romance. I guess you could say that Rintarou here was the perfect resemble of our dearly beloved main character. Though, Benji had red hair, not black.This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    Helen Griffin sighed like a fool in love. "Dreams are never just dreams," she mumbled. A boy next to her, Evan Evans, laughed at her, shocking her out of her starstruck state.


    "Ew, you''re so cringy, Helen. He''s not your imaginary love," he stated matter-o''factly, casting her a goofy grin. She scoffed and mumbled something under her breath defensively. I watched those two for a second longer, carefully seeing Evan stare at her bit too long. His eyes flashed in annoyance when he looked up to the new kids.


    Unrequited love, how sad.


    "Anyways," Mr. Neilson sighed, gathering the class, "you three have a seat in the back next to Miss Paris. Miss Paris, if you would raise your hand." He demanded, once again sighing into his hands. He was so done with the world. The three newbies looked at one another before nodding, walking down the aisle to the four open seats in the back. Great, just my luck.


    Why did I have to sit in the back? I was regretting my decision to sit back here, scrunching my nose up in disgust as they sat down. Holy hell, they reeked. What the hell did they clean up with? The girl sat next to me and the other two behind us. Catherine sat down straight and placed her backpack on the back of the chair.


    When she finished, noticing my weird reaction, she asked, "are you alright?" Something flashed in her eyes, something I couldn''t decipher.


    Nonetheless, excusing the weird look, I said I was fine. Catherine pursed her lips, debating whether or not to add to that before she looked away, eyes in her notebook. I almost sighed out loud.


    I looked away, too. There was something... something odd about them. Something that made them different from the rest of my classmates. I could... smell it, the difference. The alien factor. Just, what was it?


    I was aware of my new senses. Rye heightened sense of smell, smelling things that never had a scent. Like how all of my classmates suddenly smelt heavenly - like the times when mom fixes up a good, medium-rare steak. Everyone, as disgusting as it may be, smelt very appetizing.


    The three new students were the only ones that smelt horrible. Something I would never sink my teeth into. Ever.


    Seraph, I called for the vampire. She was silent, still. I called for her a few more times before giving up. What was her deal, anyway?


    I sighed heavily. Putting my head on my desk, I rested my eyes and daydreamed of being home in my bed, completely unaware of the curse flooding my very veins. Sure, it was cool and all; being a being from fairytales. But, that was as cool as it got.


    Everyone always wants to be things like vampires and werewolves, only thinking of the fun part. I never knew being a vampire would be so fearful. I was a monster of the dead, as strong as an army of soldiers. But, with that strength came my sense of bloodlust. I lusted for that sinful taste of copper, the warmth straight from my friend''s veins.


    I hated that, I hated it so much. Did that make me a... a cannibal? No, I''m not human anymore. I''m a vampire - a monster if the night, now. I could no longer be lumped in a group with Avery.


    She would hate me if she knew about me. I wondered what her reaction would be if she knew I murdered someone with nothing but my two fangs. How would she react? Would she freak out and call the police? Would she run away? What if... she tried to kill me?


    I couldn''t help but allow guilt to consume me once more. I would try to kill me too if I were her. It was you or everyone else world. Who wouldn''t pick themselves?


    I''m getting lost in my thoughts. Overreacting and overthinking. I lifted my head, groggily wiping the tears from my eyes as I yawned. Huh, so vampire do get sleepy. I''ll add that to my book of vampire knowledge.


    Someone tapped my shoulder. I stiffened and had to force myself not to freak out. I still don''t like being touched.


    I knew who it was. Judging by where I was, it had to be Catherine. I turned to look her way and saw her looking at me with nervous eyes. "Hey, Genevieve, right?"


    Cautiously, I nodded. She grinned at me, still somehow managing to be nervous. What? Did I have something on my face?


    "Um, me and my friends don''t know anybody. You seem chill, so I thought - if it''s okay with you - that we could sit with you at lunch?" Pleaded the angel, shutting her eyes closed as she makes a praying posture in front of me. She held her hands close to her face in a pray, peeking one eye open when I said nothing.


    My mouth was agape. What? Sit with me? But, why? Surely they''ve been invited to sit with Amelee already, clearly, she was part of the main clique in this school and I was not. If I were new and I was asked to sit with a bunch of important-looking kids, I would take the offer ASAP.


    I didn''t mean what I said next to sound so rude. "Um, didn''t Amelee ask you already? I thought she would..." Catherine blinked at me, silent.


    "Huh? Oh, yeah... she did." Catherine moved her hands and placed them in her lap.


    She looked disappointed. Very disappointed, like a puppy being refused a treat.


    Shit, me and my stupid soft side...


    "N-No..!" I accidentally squeaked out louder than I intended. Surprised, Catherine looked to me. "No, I didn''t mean it... like that..." I scratched the nape of my neck. "You can sit with me if you really want, but I don''t know why you would turn down Amelee''s offer."


    Again, she just stared at me. Until, she laughed. "Oh! Thank goodness, I really didn''t want to sit with her group." I frowned at that. I know Amelee and her group came off like your typical popular group of rich, snobby chicks, but she''s actually really sweet. Amelee is rye nicest girl in a popular clique you''ll ever meet and it irritated me when people roped her with stereotypes.


    "Amelee is really nice, don''t judge people when you don''t know them," I said, slightly narrowing my eyes at her.


    Her ocean hued eyes widened. "I didn''t mean it like that, swear! She''s just a bit over-friendly for my first day, is all. I didn''t mean to dis your friend like that."


    I narrowed my eyes at her a second longer. "It''s okay." I then sighed. I really, really hate confrontation. "Sorry I snapped at you like that, then. You can still sit with me if you want, I guess." No, please, please, please say you won''t. Change your mind and sit with Amelee, for the love of Go-


    "Thanks." Fuck.


    Why can''t I say no to people? She smiled at me once more before going back to be paper. Catherine looked like she went back to writing, but the look on her face told me otherwise. Her face was stern, lines creasing on her forehead in thought. She then nodded and hummed to herself.


    Weird. It''s like... nevermind. That couldn''t be possible.


    That being said - well, thought - I also went back to my notebook and started taking notes on the lesson. As much as I hated Trig, I was at least thankful Mr. Neilson reviewed what was on the test before handing it out. My brain could relax a little.


    Look at me, acting like a normal high school girl... I thought remorselessly. It''s going to be hard, really hard to act normal now. I can''t tell anyone about this. At least, not right now.

 Feast for a Vampire

    ¡°GOD, I FEEL LIKE dying..." I groaned as I sat down at a table in the far back of the cafeteria. It was my friends and I''s signature table, if you will. Luca had literally scared off some Sophomores in our freshman year to get the table - not the nicest way to ask for the secluded table, but what works works.


    Someone plopped in the seat next to mine. "Dying? Shouldn''t you be at the hospital then?" My eyes shot open as I recognized the owner of the singsong voice. Who else do I know with such a happy-go-lucky voice? I don''t hang around the happiest of people.


    "Catherine?" I asked, knowing the answer. I shuffled around to face her while still laying my head against the hard surface. I saw her grin down at me, eyes shining in the rays of sunlight.


    "Yep!" Catherine cheered, still smiling. I offered her a meek smile in return (although, she couldn''t see it with my mouth covered up by my arm...). Catherine, after endless staring - which she seemed to do a lot - looked behind her, her happy grin shifting mischievous. I cocked an eyebrow at the gesture and couldn''t help myself from seeing what she was looking at.


    I bit my lip in annoyance. Great, just great. I should have known that if I fed one cat, the others were sure to follow. There, just entering the cafeteria, was none other than the newest addition to our school. People surrounded them like flies, some trying to start conversations and others gawking, much like the rest of the cafeteria. I would also be caught gawking, if not for the harsh fact that I would be their new seatmate during lunch. It was awful enough to smell them the entire time during class (not to mention their odd antics), but now I couldn''t even enjoy my food in peace.


    Wait, hold that thought. Eat? Eat what exactly? I was so excited about eating lunch that it didn''t even occur to me. Can I eat human food still? There was only one way to find out. Pushing myself off the table with my hands, I got up just as the two new guys say down across from me.


    "Where are you going?" Said Catherine in a frantic. I looked to her, catching that same gaze in her eyes. It was indecipherable. I couldn''t tell what she was saying through her eyes like I could with Avery and Victor.


    The other two also looked at me, somehow matching that same, peculiar look in their eyes.


    I gave Catherine a quizzical look. "Where? To get food." Where else would I be going, anyways? I can''t just back out of my promise to sit with her, might as well suck it up.


    Heh, suck.


    This time, the smaller boy - Jaymes, was it? - spoke up. Rather quickly, too. "F-Food? Why are you¡ª" the ravenette next to him jabbed him in the ribs, cutting off his jittery trail of questions. I still caught onto what he was implying.


    "Why not? It''s lunch, isn''t it?" I asked, narrowing my eyes at him. What was he insinuating, that I was fat? The nerve of that guy.


    Jaymes must''ve seen the look on my face because the next second he spluttering out all kinds of apologies - in different languages, too. "S-Sorry..! I didn''t mean.. Gomenasai..! Lo siento, lo siento!" He would have kept going if the other guy didn''t smack the nap of his neck, causing him to rub it and now direct his sorries to the his friend.


    I was dumbstruck. Jaymes sure had... character, I guess. I laughed nervously, weirded out as I said, "uh, it''s okay. I''m gonna go get some food¡ª" because I really need to test my theory out, "¡ªbut do you guys wanna come with?"


    Catherine smiled. "No thanks," she paused, "go ahead. We already ate before we came here, so we''ll just stay here."


    I nodded. "Okay." I went to the lunch line and stopped halfway when I realized I''d forgotten something. "Oh, and, if two other people show up, they''re my friends. They might try to... scare you away." I could imagine it now. Victor walking up to the table and seeing a stranger sitting there. he would starts to puff his chest out and stride to them like some kind of gangster with a loose temper; which was partially right, he did have a loose temper, but he was nowhere near close to a gangster.


    Jaymes laughed at me. "As if he could scare us," he probably meant to whisper that to himself, but now that I had super hearing, it was as clear as speaking was. I gave him a questioning look but offered him no response as I turned my back to him. I really wanted to test my new theory out, and what but a better chance than now? Although, maybe testing this out in front of new (and suspicious) people isn''t the best idea.


    Me knowing me, I was impatient as hell. If I had an idea - maybe something like a book idea - then I would act as soon as possible.


    I picked out which of the two lunches I wanted and walked back to our table. I only got a few things today, since, by just the smell, wasn''t as hungry anymore and it would just be wasted on me. So, I just got mashed potatoes and two chicken wings. Very easy, very simple. And hopefully, very good.


    I saw that Avery and Victor were now seated in their usual spots. Avery to my left and Victor to hers. As far as I could tell, they all seemed to be getting along with each other. I smiled when I saw that Avery had a real smile for the first time today, finally washing away the painted one. Maybe I''m judging these new kids too hard, if Avery and, hell, if Victor is making friends with them, then what was holding me back?


    The fact that I''m a vampire? Was that it, though?


    Nevertheless, I managed to smile when Catherine caught me walking towards them. "Yay, she''s back!" She squealed happily, latching onto my arm as I sat down. Wow, she''s acquainted fast. In the corner of my eyes, as Catherine clung to my side, I saw both Victor and Avery roll their eyes at each other, passing a message through looks.


    I nicely got Catherine off my side so I could have elbow space. When she obliged, I decided that it was now or never. I made eating seem like a big deal when it I nodded. "Okay." I went to the lunch line and stopped halfway when I realized I''d forgotten something. "Oh, and, if two other people show up, they''re my friends. They might try to... scare you away." I could imagine it now. Victor walking up to the table and seeing a stranger sitting there. he would starts to puff his chest out and stride to them like some kind of gangster with a loose temper; which was partially right, he did have a loose temper, but he was nowhere near close to a gangster.


    Jaymes laughed at me. "As if he could scare us," he probably meant to whisper that to himself, but now that I had super hearing, it was as clear as speaking was. I gave him a questioning look but offered him no response as I turned my back to him. I really wanted to test my new theory out, and what but a better chance than now? Although, maybe testing this out in front of new (and suspicious) people isn''t the best idea.


    Me knowing me, I was impatient as hell. If I had an idea - maybe something like a book idea - then I would act as soon as possible.


    I picked out which of the two lunches I wanted and walked back to our table. I only got a few things today, since, by just the smell, wasn''t as hungry anymore and it would just be wasted on me. So, I just got mashed potatoes and two chicken wings. Very easy, very simple. And hopefully, very good.


    I saw that Avery and Victor were now seated in their usual spots. Avery to my left and Victor to hers. As far as I could tell, they all seemed to be getting along with each other. I smiled when I saw that Avery had a real smile for the first time today, finally washing away the painted one. Maybe I''m judging these new kids too hard, if Avery and, hell, if Victor is making friends with them, then what was holding me back?


    The fact that I''m a vampire? Was that it, though?


    Nevertheless, I managed to smile when Catherine caught me walking towards them. "Yay, she''s back!" She squealed happily, latching onto my arm as I sat down. Wow, she''s acquainted fast. In the corner of my eyes, as Catherine clung to my side, I saw both Victor and Avery roll their eyes at each other, passing a message through looks.


    I nicely got Catherine off my side so I could have elbow space. When she obliged, I decided that it was now or never. I made eating seem like a big deal when it really wasn''t, but I suppose, for me, it was somewhat of a big deal. If I could manage to eat this and feel replenished, this would change a lot of future things.


    "You gonna eat that?" Avery asked, munching on dried fruit she brought from home. She can''t buy school lunch, so she brings some weird food from home every day, each food weirder than the last. I¡¯m known to be an extremely picky eater, and knowing this, Avery would steal my school lunches. Since, she couldn¡¯t get her own. It was a win-win situation for the both of us but today, that rule did apply.


    Frowning apologetically, I said, ¡°sorry, Aves, feelin¡¯ kinda sick today, I think I¡¯m going to try to eat something.¡± Ignore the pouty face, Genevieve. Ignore it. Avery, still pouting, went back to eating her sad food choice, munching sadly. I sighed, feeling bad. She was probably counting on me for lunch, too. Just this once won¡¯t matter.


    Ignoring the building guilt, I dug a spoon into the mashed potatoes and brought the plastic to my lips. Immediately, I knew my plan was trashed. The smell ¨C that God-awful, revolting smell ¨C stung my nose like ice, causing my face to scrunch up in dismay. Holy Hell, now I know what that nasty smell was when I entered the Cafeteria; it was their food. The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    Gulping, I took a bit of the food, failing to notice three sets of eyes staring at me as I did. The instant (and I mean the very instance the food hit my tastebuds), I spat it back out. A nasty feeling swarmed in my stomach, the same feeling I felt after I feasted upon Luca earlier today. Disgust.


    ¡°Heh.¡±


    My heart froze by the sound of laughter. It was quiet and almost inaudible, but I could hear the mockery in the laugh. Almost as if they expected this reaction.


    I looked up from the repulsive food and, instead of seeing amused faces, I saw confusion and concern. I cast the looks away for a second, knowing that I heard the laugh come from the oh-so silent and mean-looking Rintaro. He was looking back at me, his eyes monochrome. Were my ears playing tricks on me..?


    ¡°Jesus Gen! What was that for? I literally felt your spit on my arm,¡± Avery drawled out in a gross tone.


    ¡°What?¡± I asked her, putting my spoon down with a sad frown. Guess human food is a big, fat no.


    ¡°What?! Whaddya mean, ¡®what?¡¯! You literally just spat your food on my arms!¡± Cried Avery, wiping her arm with a napkin aggressively. I pouted in response.


    ¡°But it was nasty,¡± I whined, pushing my tray towards Rintaru¡¯s space, and lying my head back to the table. ¡°I just wanna eat..!¡± My whining was never-ending, apparently. I was upset by this point. Being able to eat human food with my friends was my last chance at humanity and I couldn¡¯t even have that anymore. I hoped that maybe, if I could eat the same things I used to, then I wouldn¡¯t be such a monstrosity.


    There was no going back and doubting myself now. I¡¯m a vampire and could no longer call myself a human being. Especially not after Luca.


    ¡°What? So you really are sick?¡± Avery hummed. She was sipping on Luca¡¯s chocolate milk. ¡°I just thought you were lying.¡±


    ¡°And why would I lie about food?¡± I huffed in irritation. I always gave her my food, why¡¯s she so upset about just this once of not giving in?


    Avery chucked. "I don''t know, you''ve been lying a lot lately. You tell me." I stiffened in my seat. I felt her and Vic''s eyes set straight on me, looking at me like a stranger. "You never lie. Never could lie, actually."


    I fiddled with my spoon, playing with the disgusting dish while I thought. She was right, I really couldn''t lie. At least not to the people close to me. I was easy to read, showing my emotions on my face like a colorful canvas. Even so, there was no way I could ever tell them the truth. Even if I did, they wouldn''t believe me. I fear nobody would and then, the next thing I know, I''m in a mental institution for clinical vampirism.


    I dropped the fork and gave my best friend''s my attention, ignoring the peering gazes of the three strangers. "I know... I know. And, I''m sorry. I''ve been going through something right now and it''s just been messing with my head." It wasn''t the full truth, but it was part of it. I didn''t lie, just didn''t say the whole truth.


    Avery went to talk - probably object to my simplification - but Vic was quicker. "What? Wait, what''s this about lying, Gen? You two get into another fight without telling me again?" Sighed Vic, rubbing his temples. He was always the one to find out about me and Avery fighting in the most awkwardest positions. Like, he would be trying to hang out after school as a group and play games until he saw the two of us trying to kill each other with our eyes, instantly knocking him off his happy mood.


    I shrugged. "I guess."


    Avery gasped. "I guess?!"


    "Dammit, I wanted to go to the Arcade today too..." Grumbled Vic. "I ain''t got no cash to go myself."


    Avery hit Vic on the back of the head. "That''s what you''re worried about?! Games?! Genny is over there keeping some huge secret from us and you wanna play video games, seriously?"


    Vic whined at the hit and started soothing his head. He glared at Avery. "Yeah, well some people don''t wanna stick their noses in places where it''s not wanted. If she even was hiding something, she''ll tell us when she''s ready."


    God, I could''ve given him the biggest and most bone-crushing hug right now. I knew he would understand. I smiled at him, my smile painted with thanks and guilt. I wish I could tell them. I wish I could get this pain off my chest. I wish I could confess.


    I wish.


    Wishing was for good people and I no longer fit that category.


    Someone cleared their throat. We looked and found it to be Jaymes, who looked awkward and nervous. Shit, I forgot about them.


    "Um," he started, "so, how is this school?"


    I blinked. Vic blinked. Avery blinked. What a weird tension-breaker question. Laughing a bit, Avery shook her head and resumed eating her dried fruit silently. I gave her a pleading look, to which she rolled her eyes at and started to give me the cold shoulder. This would take a while to fix. Hell, why did this have to happen? I don''t have the mentality for this today.


    Vic seemed deep in thought but said nothing as he always neglected to. Vic never - and I mean ever - shared his feeling with us willingly. He fills himself up with so many thoughts and worries that Avery and I can literally feel his stress emitting from his pores and would press him about it. Well, I guess Avery always did the pressing and I asked if he was okay and needed a shoulder to cry on. I knew neither Vic nor Avery would answer Jaymes, so I put it upon myself to speak up.


    "It''s okay," I began plainly, "just like any other school. People stick in groups and ignore the others pretty easily." Jaymes hummed in response, taking in the small bit of information.


    "And what of the council?" Queried the blonde once more. I furrowed my brows in thought. Council? What council? We don''t have any of those¡ªoh. Ohh.


    "The Student Council you mean?" I mean, what else could he have meant? Its not like this was some prestigious private academy or anything. I was definitely not brought up by money, that was for sure. Not like I was complaining anyway; mom has went through hell and back for us by herself and I was not about to be a greedy brat over expensive stuff like an private school.


    Jaymes remained silent, thinking. "Yes, the... Student Council. How is that?"


    I snorted. "As if I know. Do I look like the type to be in their crabby club?" I laughed and shook my head in disbelief.


    He stiffened at my laughter. Out of literally nowhere, his eyes started to blaze In unforeseen anger. "Do not mock the council, you¡ª"


    "Oookay," Catherine intervened, her very own eyes conveying the same anger as Jaymes, but unlike Jaymes, anxiety swam in her anger. She looked at me, erasing any trail of anger. "Sorry ability him, we used to be part of the Student Council back at our old school. He''s¡ªno, we''re¡ªa bit touchy I guess."


    I scoffed, looking away from her angelic demeanor and to the disgusting plate of roadkill. "A bit touchy my ass..." I felt Jaymes''s heated glare directed towards me, but I ignored him. If he was going to be rude to us at our table then I was going to childishly act like he wasn''t here.


    Yeah, childish¡ªI know.


    Catherine started soothing her friend by whispering sweet nothings in his ear, his hard look slowly softening. By the way he was leaning on her chest, I would have assumed they were a thing. Unless they''re siblings? Who knows, I certainly don¡¯t. I dint know a thing about these strangers, and if I were honest...


    I looked to the strangers. Catherine and Jaymes were still whispering to each other. As off as it was, I couldn¡¯t hear a thing they were muttering about even with my new freakish hearing. Then, I looked over towards Mr. Silent. He was broading in his spot, back as straight as a board and eyes never leaving my face. Chills ran down my spin at his empty gaze. How long has he been staring at me? I looked away, feeling uncomfortable under his dark eyes.


    I¡¯d rather not know them anymore.


    I have enough to deal with already. My mom, Luca¡¯s death and people¡¯s upcoming suspicions, a strange voice in my head and finally, the curse running through my veins that was changing my DNA at this very moment in time. If I had to guess, these three newbies were just as odd at they looked. Meaning, getting mixed up with them would only make another problem on my plate to eat.


    Curiously, I looked back to Rintaro. Just as expected, his eyes were locked on me just as they were minutes ago. He knew I caught his eyes, yet he didn¡¯t break away. He was analyzing me, reading the pages in my book like it was nothing. I gave him a weird look, hoping he would catch on and look away. Stubborn as a mule, he just cocked an eyebrow in response, his lips a fine line. I sighed in defeat. Whatever, he can stare all he wants for all I care.


    What I didn¡¯t expect was him to actually speak to me.


    ¡°Paris Genevieve, was it?¡± Rintaro asked flatly. I had a hunch he already knew my name.


    Still, I replied. ¡°Yeah¡­ Genevieve Paris.¡± I didn¡¯t bother giving him my nickname. I figured he¡¯d ignore it, anyways. He just screamed professionality and it made me feel like a peasant beneath his fancy shoes. ¡°And you¡¯re Rintaro Philips?¡±


    ¡°Why would you even show up to school?¡± Rintaro pressed, completely ignoring my question at hand. I didn¡¯t care for that, my ears solely focused on his question instead. I was sure I looked like a rabbit in his eyes as mine widened, full of surprise. What did he mean by that? He didn¡¯t even know me.


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± I exclaimed, not bothering to leave the rudeness out of my tone. Did I ever do that, anyways?


    He crossed his arms over his chest, somehow never breaking the deadlock sight on me. I swallowed a lump in my throat, not finding the nerve to look away this time. Somehow, I felt that if I looked away, I would regret it. Catherine and Jaymes looked between the both of us, their faces now void of emotion. Just what were these weirdos thinking? I couldn¡¯t figure them out.


    Chillingly, it seems Rintaro already had me figured out.


    But there could be no way he knew about this morning. No way in hell. I was alone, I was alone. That side of the woods was always deserted unless my friends and I hung out there. I was our secret area, and escape from reality. Yeah, I didn¡¯t make sure I was alone, but if he had, in fact, seen me, he would have tried to stop me, right? Any sane person would have.


    Instead of giving me a straight answer, he said, ¡°you¡¯re very much excused, Miss Paris.¡± Oh, how I wanted to growl at his sarcastic ass.


    ¡°What¡¯s with them?¡± I heard Avery whisper to Vic. I wanted to reply for him, but I knew it would be odd if I could hear their whispers so finely, so I bit my tongue. Avery was ignoring me for now and I knew she wouldn¡¯t ask me questions directly until she calmed down.


    ¡°Rin, we shouldn¡¯t ta¡­¡± What started off as loud slowly became an unintelligible whisper as Catherine muttered to Rintaro, them casting me sideways looks during.


    Okay, if I was suspicious of them earlier, I definitely was now. We¡¯re they even trying to be discreet now? It was painfully obvious that they either wanted something from me or they knew something they shouldn¡¯t. But that should be impossible, I didn¡¯t even know them for Pete¡¯s Sake!


    Catherine walked back to the spot next to me and gave me a soft smile. I wish I could believe the smile was innocent, I really do. But that was really hard for me to do now, especially after Rintaro¡¯s question.


    They knew something. I don¡¯t know they know or how they do, but I was no stranger to them as they were to me. I don¡¯t know if that or the vampirism scared me more.