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Chapter 3

“What’s the rush?” my mom called from the living room, her eyes glued to the TV, watching a gardening show.
I started at the voice and almost had a heart attack. My eyes flew open frantically. Taking a deep breath, I realized I had forgotten Mom was home. She must have heard me clamber in and slam the door.
“And why are you so out of breath? I can hear you breathing from here!” She turned to face me now, a concerned --- but not worried --- expression on her face. She looked like if she didn’t get an answer, she’d shake it out of me. You know, one of those looks.
I racked my brain for an explanation good enough and finally remembered the rain. “It started raining outside.” I panted, making it convincing with shallow breaths. “It’s pouring out there!” I commented, especially lingering on ‘pouring’ and emphasizing the word dramatically.
I was still getting over the fear, holding my hand to my head and trying to calm myself down. So, it was refreshing when I heard my mom laugh. “Just don’t drip all over the nice wood floor!” she warned jokingly, then turned back to the TV. I sighed in relief and chuckled. Mom always found some way to make me laugh just at the right time.
Pushing my wet hair back, I rose from my position. At least I had something to get over those fleeting terrifying moments: Everett. I sighed again; this time dreamily (and almost slapped myself at my stupidity. This was serious!) I pulled a jar of tuna from the fridge and yanked it open. After finding a bread bag on the counter, I decided against putting them in the toaster. Not a good idea when it was me making it.
After closing the fridge, I spread some tuna over one of the loaves, and then on some crackers from a box my mom had left on the table. Then I stacked it all on a paper plate and ran up the stairs to write in my journal. Of course, in my frenzied escape, I had left my backpack outside the door. I would get no homework done tonight and Mom would probably take it inside after almost stumbling over it. And still, there was a lot to say in my journal today.
Dear Diary,
Wow. What do I say on a day like this? First off, Everett Caine. He is . . . wonderful. marvelous. perfect. an angel. exquisite. I’m not sure Well, I can’t really say anything about him. Because everything I try to say just undermines him. No word is enough. He’s just indescribable. There we go; there’s a word for him. Oh my gosh... I sound like a fangirl. God help me... He took me home today and it was utterly perfect. Like a scene from a romance novel. Except I’m not dramatic enough to be in anything like that.
Another thing happened today. I realized I’m being stalked, by . . . something. I don’t know if it’s human or animal. It looked partially human to me, but the rain was obscuring my view. “It” almost got me today. It’s a miracle I made an escape. I should be dead right now. I know, I sound like someone who belongs in an asylum, but at least this is my diary and no one reads it but me!
Wish me all the best!
--Rosette

I took a cracker covered in tuna off of my plate and plopped it in my mouth as I gazed at my scratchy handwriting. It was a mess. I wondered how Everett’s handwriting looked. Probably perfect, like everything else about him. I sighed, exasperated. I really needed to get ahold of myself . . .

I was in a forest. But the only thing that revealed that was the trees. Everything else was light.
All around me, brightness. I couldn’t escape it. Yet, I didn’t want to. I wanted to bask in this light and soak it in. It was just . . . soothing. After keeping them closed for a few seconds, I opened my eyes and looked to my left.
There he was. In all his glory, Everett Caine walked slowly towards me, light engulfing him. The only way I could tell that it was Everett was the face. That beautiful face. But something was different. His eyes were like a black hole, and they turned upon me in anger, ruining the image.
Yet, that one difference didn’t stop me. I turned and took a few steps forward. That made him smile. Holding his hand out to me, he began to whisper softly and sweetly. And as time passed and I drew closer, that whispering turned into singing --- the most beautiful voice I had ever heard. I closed my eyes for a few seconds and sighed in relief. It was almost like I had been in pain and the voice had taken all that away.
“Rosette.” he whispered, yet still singing somehow. He extended his hand with more purpose, taking a step forward as I opened my eyes. I took one step forward myself, but when I was almost to his hand, something happened I’ll never forget.
The beautiful angel that had once stood before me gruesomely transformed into the creature I had seen last night. Only now, I could see it clearly. But the creature, right now, had to be a figment of my imagination; for I had only seen its silhouette last night. It towered over me, its dark crimson eyes boring into me. I wanted to scream but I couldn’t get my vocal chords to work. I opened my mouth and tried to force out a scream, but nothing came. All I could hear was the low growl . . .
“Rosette! Rosette!” Someone scooped me up into their arms and tried to wrench open my eyes. But weren’t my eyes already open? “Rosette!”
Finally the real voice broke through and I opened my eyes. Suddenly, I was plunged into reality and I heard a horrible, shrill sound. It was continuous and I just wanted it to stop.
Only then did I realize it was me . . . screaming.
I forced my mouth closed and tried to stifle my vocal chords. Tears were streaming down my face and I frantically swiped them off. Staring down at me in concern, my mom rocked me back and forth. She whispered soothingly to calm me down.
“What-what happened?” I asked when I finally got my voice to work. Hot trails of tears were still soaking my face and I tried to rub them off with the heel of my hand, annoyed that they were even pouring down in the first place. My head was pounding, so I rested my palm over my forehead in agony.
“You were screaming in your sleep. You must have been having a nightmare.” She couldn’t hide the worry that was creeping up into her tone.
“What time is it?” I inquired groggily, struggling to get out of her arms. I wriggled to and fro to try to get a good look at my nightstand.
“11: 55. I‘ve been trying to wake you up for a while.” She smiled down at me, and then gently set me down on the bed. “Go to sleep.” She demanded, gently but firmly shoving me back down after I tried to get up.
“But what if I have the nightmare again?” I sat up frantically and she pushed me down again.
“You won’t. They never happen in a row.” She smiled. “Not in the same night, at least.” she added hesitantly.
I smiled back and laid down. After slipping quietly off my bed, she softly pulled the comforter over me and tucked me in securely. I turned over in bed and rested my cheek on the cool pillow. My eyes slowly started to close as I heard the door shut. I was about to let myself fall into a deep sleep again when the last thing Mom said reverberated in my sleepy mind: ‘Not in the same night, at least.’ I could almost hear her gentle, concerned voice remind me.
So, I could have the same nightmare two nights in a row. What if I did have this nightmare again tomorrow night? Well, it was probably the next day by now, so it would technically be tonight. Before I let myself drift off to sleep, I resolved that I had to figure out what this creature was soon.

Mom was right. I didn’t even have another dream. All I remember is a deep, black, dreamless night. I woke up this morning better than ever, and, so far, school was flying by.
That day at lunch, I took my usual seat in the back corner of the cafeteria with my pizza (We actually had real food today!). I sat here by myself all the time. I didn’t really feel like trying to mingle with the crowd and I had no problem sitting alone. Like I said, I liked my privacy. But, as I saw Mitchell heading this way, I figured today was different.
“Heeeey!” I heard him calling as he waltzed over. He gestured at the seat beside me and I scooted my chair over to make some room.
After setting his tray down and making himself comfortable in one of the sturdy plastic chairs, he gave me a heart-warming grin. It was so tender and genuine that I almost giggled. I settled for a smile back instead.
“I’m sorry for how I acted yesterday. You know, tests and all, it really gets your mind off of everything else. I acted pretty much like a jerk, then, didn’t I?” he explained, staring at me the whole time. I shook my head in disagreement and laughed. “Okay, well, even though you think I wasn’t, I’ll make it up to you.” he stated resolutely. “Hey guys! Sit over here!”
A huge group of his friends, all guys, came and sat over at the table. I saw a few I recognized from some of my classes. Most of the others had a sort of jockish look to them, and I didn’t want to mess with that. To my luck, one of the non-jocks came and sat by me.
“So, guys, this is my little Rosy.” Mitchell gestured to me as they all sat down. They all mumbled in acknowledgement, but none looked up. The one that sat beside me managed a small wave and I smiled back. He hid his face and continued eating.
I almost glared at Mitchell for his off-the-cuff nickname, but the way that one had hid from me had thrown me off a bit. Was there something about me that held him back from acknowledging me without embarrassment?
“Okay, Rosette. Happy?" Mitchell apparently had see my scowl before the non-jock had confused me. The one thing I hate about him was that he was able to spot that stuff without even looking sometimes. "She’s the one that helped me with my little uh . . . prank on Annabelle Ritchie.” Mitchell announced proudly. I was flattered he included me in it. But that seemed about it. After that, he trailed off into his story and the rest of the conversation with me was now lost. Apparently, the jocks were a bit more interesting.
I slowly ate in peace, yet the guy beside me kept glancing over at me, and then would look away when I realized it. I inwardly giggled at his behavior and figured I’d try a conversation. “Hi.” I greeted almost inaudibly. I immediately felt stupid for doing it and hid my face with my hair.
“Hey.” I heard a sweet, quiet voice answer. I suddenly realized why he had been so embarrassed earlier. He was shy! The idea hit me like a ton of lead. Why hadn’t I noticed that before? “I’m Riley.” he finally continued.
I smiled a little wider. Wow, that name is adorable . . . Then almost slapped myself for that thought. Great, there went my head again. What was with me and guys lately? His pretty greenish eyes searched my face and he pushed a little of his nappy brunette hair back to take a better look at me. His eyes were green, yet that kind that you knew changed from blue, to hazel, to green, and back again; because I could see all those colors in his eyes, but only faintly. His brown hair hung slightly over his face, almost a bed-headish mess. And it still looked good. What was it with guys and messy hair that still looked perfectly fine?!
“I’m Rosette.” I replied faintly. Then, I realized Mitchell had already introduced me. I felt stupid --- again. Once again, it seemed like I couldn’t speak. Maybe it was his eyes . . .
“Nice to meet you. So, how long have you gone to this school?” He cocked his head to the side and sported that cliché lopsided smirk. I almost melted. Great... Not that again.
“Nice to meet you too.” I struggled not to smile or giggle too much while I said this. What is wrong with me? “I’ve gone here for at least 6 years. But, as you see,” I swept my hand around the cafeteria, gesturing at the jocks in front of us also. “It's not that much different than being here 6 minutes.” I hung my head and started digging the toe of my shoe into the linoleum floor. “Mitchell’s the first one to try acknowledging me.” I explained, looking up at him. “Oh, and you, of course.” I amended hastily, blushing apologetically.
He laughed. “I could make myself noticed, I just choose not to. I’m, uh . . . very shy, as you’ve probably noticed.” he declared, in pride, surprisingly. “So, I mostly keep to myself. Only friend of mine is Mitchell, same as you.” He smiled again. “Only been here a couple of years, unlike you. And I mingle with the crowd, unlike you. Bad habit of mine.” he added.I kind of liked the way he talked. It was like a hurried mess filled with fragments and flutters.

“True. I just don’t only because I like my privacy. I don’t really want to be included. I feel like I’m a follower if I do; and I hate that.” I cringed, and then chuckled. “You don’t look like a follower though. That’s a good thing. You’re a natural leader, I can tell. And it was you that made the effort to say hello to me.” I pointed out, gesturing with my hands as I said so.
The rest of the conversation was laughs and smiles, and talking about us shy people and our tendency. In a way I was shy, but also, I didn’t want anyone else. I was better off by myself. Especially with how invisible I naturally was.
The talk with Riley was nice. I actually felt like someone wanted me around for once, which surprisingly felt good after years of making sure I was left alone. So, when lunch ended, I was a little disappointed.
We uttered our goodbyes and set off our different ways to our last classes. For me, it was math. Oh, how I hated any math class. At least I didn’t have to take Gym, then. I was glad for this class in that aspect.
The class drudged on for what seemed like forever and when I finally heard the bell ring I was out in a flash, still slinging my bag over my shoulder. As I raced out to the parking lot, I decided to take the bus again. I wondered why I hadn’t seen Everett. I attempted to swallow the flashes of the nightmare that immediately surfaced, along with the bile that had rushed up my throat. Just as I reached the bus to get on early, a voice hailed me. Upon turning around, I recognized the person to be Riley. I grinned and waved as he ran over.
“Hey!” he greeted, almost out of breath. His head hung downward as he leaned against a bike rack, trying to steady his breathing. “You taking the bus?” he inquired, finally regaining normal breaths.
I nodded and looked at my watch. The driver should pull around in a few minutes, so I had time to waste. I could talk, especially if it was to Riley. He seemed a best friend already.
“Yeah, I usually do, but I’m going over to one of my mom’s friend’s houses. They’ve got some craft or project or something their doing together.” We both laughed. “You know moms, they’ve always got something or other planned to do together. So, how was your last class? Algebra, right?” He pondered over that for a minute, and then grimaced. “I’m guessing last period wasn’t so great then.” He immediately brightened up and changed the subject. “On a different note . . . , we should really hang out sometime."
I beamed at that idea. He really was my only friend. Yeah, Mitchell . . . but he really didn’t try his hardest, even I could tell that. I’d be glad to hang out with Riley anytime. “Yeah, we really should sometime.”
At that moment, the bus pulled around to the section of sidewalk we were at and I waved back to Riley eagerly. “See you tomorrow!” he called to me as I boarded the bus, looking back the whole time.

The next few days flew past. I talked to Everett after school when he came to pick up Valerie (putting the nightmare finally behind me as any memory of it faded away), and I hung out with Riley around Mitchell’s whole group. Once again, none of them really noticing me. Riley and I continued to converse whenever we could, the feeling of him being a best friend almost surfacing to a reality.
The two meetings completed each other. I would talk to Everett, and he would draw me out of reality with his sweet voice and beautiful face. Then Riley would complete it by his talks with me the next morning, which would drop me right smack into reality once again. Even Valerie began to talk to me, but she was still distant enough not to sit with us at lunch.
The more Riley talked to me, the less Mitchell tried to it seemed. This realization took its toll on me for quite a while before I let it go. I had Riley now, and he tried all the time, unlike Mitchell. And who cared about Mitchell not paying attention to me? I had Everett also, and that was enough alongside Riley. I hoped Valerie might drift over to my side too.
A week later it seemed things had taken a turn for the better as I got my lunch in the cafeteria. It was some kind of casserole that was made of who knows what. But that really didn't matter. I was happy for once in my life. There had been a spice added to the blandness of my surroundings, and somehow that made even the worst things okay. I strolled across the cafeteria traveling to my usual spot in the corner. But, as I sat down, I noticed Mitchell’s group, along with Riley, was already at another table and eating.
At that point I made a decision. I didn’t like my privacy anymore, since I had gained two “best” friends and possibly a third. So, I picked up my tray, took a deep breath, swallowed the lump in my throat, and made my march over to their table.
Once I reached my destination, I froze in fear. Why did I come over here? Why am I so stupid?! I cursed myself for even having the idea. I finally surmounted my fear, clearing my throat afterwards in an act to grab their attention. All heads turned my way. I was surprised for a few moments. I’d never been this noticed before, and I didn’t think I wanted this much attention. “M-may I sit over here?” I asked in their complete silence, pointing to an empty seat next to Riley.
They all nodded in approval and whispers went up among the group. “Being assertive today, are we?” Mitchell called across the table. I laughed and winked at him.
“I try!” I called back as I took my seat by my newfound best friend. He gave me his huge lopsided smirk and scooted his chair over to make room.
“Wow, this is a new you.” he laughed and stirred his casserole around. “I’ve never seen you want anything but privacy. I would never be able to do something like that.”
I leaned over and bumped him. “Well, I’ve got a new life now, and new friends. Things have changed for the better.”
“You’ve got that right. I didn’t really have friends before.” He nudged me with his elbow. Raising his fork up, he let the casserole drip off of it while he stared at it horrified. “What is with this casserole? I don’t even think it’s edible!”
I pushed my tray over to the side. “I’m not even trying. It’s only an hour before school’s over, so I’m holding out for a snack at home.”
“I’m with you.” he agreed, faking gagging noises. We both stood up with our trays, laughing. I bumped him with my shoulder again and we made our way over to the trashcan.
Throwing away our trash, I got a great chance to ogle over his “multicolored” eyes. “Have you ever noticed how pretty your eyes are?” I blurted out accidentally, immediately clapping my hand over my mouth in shock after I realized what I said.
He laughed even harder than he had been before. “Have you been ogling over my eyes the whole time?” he inquired, purposely making his gaze beautifully intense. “The whole time right now, that is.” That cleared up any questions that had been popping up in my head. I had thought he meant since the beginning of our friendship, but since he had just clarified, I had no choice but to tell the truth.
“Yes. I have the whole time while you’ve been scooping the goop off your plate. It was an inescapable opportunity, and there was no guarantee I’d have the chance again!” I explained, pouting and whining as I did so.
He ruffled my hair like he would to a child. “It’s fine. I mean, who wouldn’t be enthralled with me.” Then he turned on his best smoulder, wiggling his eyebrows.
Slapping his arm playfully, I headed back over to the lunch table to get my stuff, Riley trailing closely behind. As we picked up our things, Mitchell gave me a look and raised his eyebrows. I threw him a friendly glare and took off to Algebra 2 once again.

“Freedom!” I uttered hysterically as I reached the parking lot, breathing in fresh air. Escaping math was the greatest thing in the world, especially when Everett Caine was waiting by his car for you.
“Still taking the bus today?” he asked swaggering up beside me as I walked along the sidewalk. I looked at him and narrowed my eyes. “I’m taking that as a yes.” He watched as the hundreds of teens rushed out onto the all too small sidewalk, and a grin randomly spread across his face. “It seems you and Riley have been . . . close.” He made a scandalized face and grinned even wider.
I jabbed him in the ribs, but it didn’t seemed to faze him. “Shut up.” I muttered irritated. I looked up and he was still staring at me suspiciously. “Quit it!” I shoved him off the sidewalk, making him trip on one of the concrete barriers in a parking space. He steadied himself before falling face first, and rushed up to shove me back.
I bumped into the wall and laughed until I started crying. Time with Everett was definitely not boring. Before I knew it, Riley rushed over to break it up, in case someone might get hurt. “C’mon guys! Don’t kill each other!”
“Aw. You take all the fun out of it!” I huffed comically, crossing my arms like a six-year-old who hadn’t gotten her way. Everett glanced at me, then Riley. Arching one eyebrow, he mouthed ‘Oo-o-ooh.’ You know how people do that sound when they're making fun of someone liking you, or vice-versa. Yeah, that one. I shot him a glare, wishing for once in my life I had laser vision so I could burn right through his smug face.
He only laughed.
“Well, why’d you have to go reveal my plan?! Curse you, Riley.” Everett exclaimed jokingly. He was still laughing hard.
I hated him.
“Now, now, now. There will be no killing and no plans of it, you two.” Riley sounded like a mom disciplining her children. This, well, wasn’t far from the truth, considering it was me and Everett. He wagged his finger at us like he meant it, but he couldn’t erase the huge grin from his face --- that spoiled the act. Riley was opening his mouth to talk to me, when we heard a horn honk frantically multiple times and he hung his head in disappointment. “That would be my mom,” he declared, depressed. “Guess I’ll see you tomorrow, then.” And with that he took off to his moms old van, yelling “Will you quit with the horn?!” the whole way.
Everett suddenly turned to me. “Told you,” he confirmed simply.
I shot him another glare, but he was looking down at his shoes and scuffing them on the concrete. He had his hands shoved into his pockets --- the stereotype picture of a bad boy. I almost giggled, if not for the awkward silence that had taken hold of us.
I thought I might as well start a conversation, then. “How have you been lately?” Wow, that was lame.
He chuckled. “Good, I guess. A little beside myself, occasionally. But I’m fine now. I just need someone to talk to.” He turned those beautiful fiery eyes on me, and I almost melted.
We turned a corner on the sidewalk, and I felt it was my turn to speak up now. “Same here. I just need someone to talk to most of the time. Things have been changing for me. I’m a little more outgoing and now I’ve got two new best friends.” I drifted over and nudged him. “Yep, things have really changed.” I trailed off, staring at the sky.
The wind started to pick up pretty badly and I hugged my jacket close to me. I looked towards Everett and it seemed he was fine with the temperature change. Must be used to it . . . He continued the conversation without reluctance, apparently ignoring the cold. “Yeah, I can’t believe how things ha---“
He just stopped.
I kept walking, expecting him to catch up. But he stopped --- talking and moving both. I turned back to check on him, and I was graced with his hardened face once again. He was clenching then unclenching his fists like he wanted to punch someone. His face was creased in frustration and contorted in some kind of struggle. His gorgeous bright eyes were being swept with a black that got darker and darker.
“Cool. You’ve got those contacts that can change color! That’s awesome!” I exclaimed. I don’t know why I was so stupid at the moment. Maybe he was dazzling me again. “Look! They’re changing black! It’s so cool!”
He tried to force a grin, but it looked like he was fighting against something as the wind started to come in massive gusts instead of the steady breeze it was before. One of his eyelids actually started to twitch and I cocked my head at his behavior.
“Are you okay?” I took a few steps forward to lay my hand on his shoulder, but he suddenly backed away. He seemed to be mouthing my name, but I could’ve been seeing things.
Before I could even blink, He took off. But not at regular human speed --- no, no, nothing even near human speed --- but at a speed so that he was only a continuous blur of white as he dashed away.
I only backed away slowly, screaming ‘no’ over and over again in my head. I took off toward the bus, with never a second thought, never screaming like I truly wanted to, and never a look back at the nightmare that had just happened behind me . . .

The next few days I was terrified. Any chance I might have of running into Everett I avoided --- while still talking to Valerie. A hard combination. She and I had still not made much progress. We talked every now and then, but mostly we were just one step above acquaintances.
I continued to sit with Riley more and more, but I was horrified whenever I thought of possibly telling him what happened. It wasn’t that I thought he wouldn’t believe me; it’s that I didn’t want to expose Everett --- whatever he was.
Half of me swore he was not the creature that had almost killed me. Everett wouldn’t do that to me, would he? Yet, I couldn’t keep the other half of me from letting suspicions creep up into my mind. But whenever they did, I shoved them away. I couldn’t think that way about Everett. I had to stay unbiased until he explained this to me. Then, and only then, could I form opinions. And whatever he was, I would support him.
Wouldn’t I?

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Chapter 3

“What’s the rush?” my mom called from the living room, her eyes glued to the TV, watching a gardening show.
I started at the voice and almost had a heart attack. My eyes flew open frantically. Taking a deep breath, I realized I had forgotten Mom was home. She must have heard me clamber in and slam the door.
“And why are you so out of breath? I can hear you breathing from here!” She turned to face me now, a concerned --- but not worried --- expression on her face. She looked like if she didn’t get an answer, she’d shake it out of me. You know, one of those looks.
I racked my brain for an explanation good enough and finally remembered the rain. “It started raining outside.” I panted, making it convincing with shallow breaths. “It’s pouring out there!” I commented, especially lingering on ‘pouring’ and emphasizing the word dramatically.
I was still getting over the fear, holding my hand to my head and trying to calm myself down. So, it was refreshing when I heard my mom laugh. “Just don’t drip all over the nice wood floor!” she warned jokingly, then turned back to the TV. I sighed in relief and chuckled. Mom always found some way to make me laugh just at the right time.
Pushing my wet hair back, I rose from my position. At least I had something to get over those fleeting terrifying moments: Everett. I sighed again; this time dreamily (and almost slapped myself at my stupidity. This was serious!) I pulled a jar of tuna from the fridge and yanked it open. After finding a bread bag on the counter, I decided against putting them in the toaster. Not a good idea when it was me making it.
After closing the fridge, I spread some tuna over one of the loaves, and then on some crackers from a box my mom had left on the table. Then I stacked it all on a paper plate and ran up the stairs to write in my journal. Of course, in my frenzied escape, I had left my backpack outside the door. I would get no homework done tonight and Mom would probably take it inside after almost stumbling over it. And still, there was a lot to say in my journal today.
Dear Diary,
Wow. What do I say on a day like this? First off, Everett Caine. He is . . . wonderful. marvelous. perfect. an angel. exquisite. I’m not sure Well, I can’t really say anything about him. Because everything I try to say just undermines him. No word is enough. He’s just indescribable. There we go; there’s a word for him. Oh my gosh... I sound like a fangirl. God help me... He took me home today and it was utterly perfect. Like a scene from a romance novel. Except I’m not dramatic enough to be in anything like that.
Another thing happened today. I realized I’m being stalked, by . . . something. I don’t know if it’s human or animal. It looked partially human to me, but the rain was obscuring my view. “It” almost got me today. It’s a miracle I made an escape. I should be dead right now. I know, I sound like someone who belongs in an asylum, but at least this is my diary and no one reads it but me!
Wish me all the best!
--Rosette

I took a cracker covered in tuna off of my plate and plopped it in my mouth as I gazed at my scratchy handwriting. It was a mess. I wondered how Everett’s handwriting looked. Probably perfect, like everything else about him. I sighed, exasperated. I really needed to get ahold of myself . . .

I was in a forest. But the only thing that revealed that was the trees. Everything else was light.
All around me, brightness. I couldn’t escape it. Yet, I didn’t want to. I wanted to bask in this light and soak it in. It was just . . . soothing. After keeping them closed for a few seconds, I opened my eyes and looked to my left.
There he was. In all his glory, Everett Caine walked slowly towards me, light engulfing him. The only way I could tell that it was Everett was the face. That beautiful face. But something was different. His eyes were like a black hole, and they turned upon me in anger, ruining the image.
Yet, that one difference didn’t stop me. I turned and took a few steps forward. That made him smile. Holding his hand out to me, he began to whisper softly and sweetly. And as time passed and I drew closer, that whispering turned into singing --- the most beautiful voice I had ever heard. I closed my eyes for a few seconds and sighed in relief. It was almost like I had been in pain and the voice had taken all that away.
“Rosette.” he whispered, yet still singing somehow. He extended his hand with more purpose, taking a step forward as I opened my eyes. I took one step forward myself, but when I was almost to his hand, something happened I’ll never forget.
The beautiful angel that had once stood before me gruesomely transformed into the creature I had seen last night. Only now, I could see it clearly. But the creature, right now, had to be a figment of my imagination; for I had only seen its silhouette last night. It towered over me, its dark crimson eyes boring into me. I wanted to scream but I couldn’t get my vocal chords to work. I opened my mouth and tried to force out a scream, but nothing came. All I could hear was the low growl . . .
“Rosette! Rosette!” Someone scooped me up into their arms and tried to wrench open my eyes. But weren’t my eyes already open? “Rosette!”
Finally the real voice broke through and I opened my eyes. Suddenly, I was plunged into reality and I heard a horrible, shrill sound. It was continuous and I just wanted it to stop.
Only then did I realize it was me . . . screaming.
I forced my mouth closed and tried to stifle my vocal chords. Tears were streaming down my face and I frantically swiped them off. Staring down at me in concern, my mom rocked me back and forth. She whispered soothingly to calm me down.
“What-what happened?” I asked when I finally got my voice to work. Hot trails of tears were still soaking my face and I tried to rub them off with the heel of my hand, annoyed that they were even pouring down in the first place. My head was pounding, so I rested my palm over my forehead in agony.
“You were screaming in your sleep. You must have been having a nightmare.” She couldn’t hide the worry that was creeping up into her tone.
“What time is it?” I inquired groggily, struggling to get out of her arms. I wriggled to and fro to try to get a good look at my nightstand.
“11: 55. I‘ve been trying to wake you up for a while.” She smiled down at me, and then gently set me down on the bed. “Go to sleep.” She demanded, gently but firmly shoving me back down after I tried to get up.
“But what if I have the nightmare again?” I sat up frantically and she pushed me down again.
“You won’t. They never happen in a row.” She smiled. “Not in the same night, at least.” she added hesitantly.
I smiled back and laid down. After slipping quietly off my bed, she softly pulled the comforter over me and tucked me in securely. I turned over in bed and rested my cheek on the cool pillow. My eyes slowly started to close as I heard the door shut. I was about to let myself fall into a deep sleep again when the last thing Mom said reverberated in my sleepy mind: ‘Not in the same night, at least.’ I could almost hear her gentle, concerned voice remind me.
So, I could have the same nightmare two nights in a row. What if I did have this nightmare again tomorrow night? Well, it was probably the next day by now, so it would technically be tonight. Before I let myself drift off to sleep, I resolved that I had to figure out what this creature was soon.

Mom was right. I didn’t even have another dream. All I remember is a deep, black, dreamless night. I woke up this morning better than ever, and, so far, school was flying by.
That day at lunch, I took my usual seat in the back corner of the cafeteria with my pizza (We actually had real food today!). I sat here by myself all the time. I didn’t really feel like trying to mingle with the crowd and I had no problem sitting alone. Like I said, I liked my privacy. But, as I saw Mitchell heading this way, I figured today was different.
“Heeeey!” I heard him calling as he waltzed over. He gestured at the seat beside me and I scooted my chair over to make some room.
After setting his tray down and making himself comfortable in one of the sturdy plastic chairs, he gave me a heart-warming grin. It was so tender and genuine that I almost giggled. I settled for a smile back instead.
“I’m sorry for how I acted yesterday. You know, tests and all, it really gets your mind off of everything else. I acted pretty much like a jerk, then, didn’t I?” he explained, staring at me the whole time. I shook my head in disagreement and laughed. “Okay, well, even though you think I wasn’t, I’ll make it up to you.” he stated resolutely. “Hey guys! Sit over here!”
A huge group of his friends, all guys, came and sat over at the table. I saw a few I recognized from some of my classes. Most of the others had a sort of jockish look to them, and I didn’t want to mess with that. To my luck, one of the non-jocks came and sat by me.
“So, guys, this is my little Rosy.” Mitchell gestured to me as they all sat down. They all mumbled in acknowledgement, but none looked up. The one that sat beside me managed a small wave and I smiled back. He hid his face and continued eating.
I almost glared at Mitchell for his off-the-cuff nickname, but the way that one had hid from me had thrown me off a bit. Was there something about me that held him back from acknowledging me without embarrassment?
“Okay, Rosette. Happy?" Mitchell apparently had see my scowl before the non-jock had confused me. The one thing I hate about him was that he was able to spot that stuff without even looking sometimes. "She’s the one that helped me with my little uh . . . prank on Annabelle Ritchie.” Mitchell announced proudly. I was flattered he included me in it. But that seemed about it. After that, he trailed off into his story and the rest of the conversation with me was now lost. Apparently, the jocks were a bit more interesting.
I slowly ate in peace, yet the guy beside me kept glancing over at me, and then would look away when I realized it. I inwardly giggled at his behavior and figured I’d try a conversation. “Hi.” I greeted almost inaudibly. I immediately felt stupid for doing it and hid my face with my hair.
“Hey.” I heard a sweet, quiet voice answer. I suddenly realized why he had been so embarrassed earlier. He was shy! The idea hit me like a ton of lead. Why hadn’t I noticed that before? “I’m Riley.” he finally continued.
I smiled a little wider. Wow, that name is adorable . . . Then almost slapped myself for that thought. Great, there went my head again. What was with me and guys lately? His pretty greenish eyes searched my face and he pushed a little of his nappy brunette hair back to take a better look at me. His eyes were green, yet that kind that you knew changed from blue, to hazel, to green, and back again; because I could see all those colors in his eyes, but only faintly. His brown hair hung slightly over his face, almost a bed-headish mess. And it still looked good. What was it with guys and messy hair that still looked perfectly fine?!
“I’m Rosette.” I replied faintly. Then, I realized Mitchell had already introduced me. I felt stupid --- again. Once again, it seemed like I couldn’t speak. Maybe it was his eyes . . .
“Nice to meet you. So, how long have you gone to this school?” He cocked his head to the side and sported that cliché lopsided smirk. I almost melted. Great... Not that again.
“Nice to meet you too.” I struggled not to smile or giggle too much while I said this. What is wrong with me? “I’ve gone here for at least 6 years. But, as you see,” I swept my hand around the cafeteria, gesturing at the jocks in front of us also. “It's not that much different than being here 6 minutes.” I hung my head and started digging the toe of my shoe into the linoleum floor. “Mitchell’s the first one to try acknowledging me.” I explained, looking up at him. “Oh, and you, of course.” I amended hastily, blushing apologetically.
He laughed. “I could make myself noticed, I just choose not to. I’m, uh . . . very shy, as you’ve probably noticed.” he declared, in pride, surprisingly. “So, I mostly keep to myself. Only friend of mine is Mitchell, same as you.” He smiled again. “Only been here a couple of years, unlike you. And I mingle with the crowd, unlike you. Bad habit of mine.” he added.I kind of liked the way he talked. It was like a hurried mess filled with fragments and flutters.

“True. I just don’t only because I like my privacy. I don’t really want to be included. I feel like I’m a follower if I do; and I hate that.” I cringed, and then chuckled. “You don’t look like a follower though. That’s a good thing. You’re a natural leader, I can tell. And it was you that made the effort to say hello to me.” I pointed out, gesturing with my hands as I said so.
The rest of the conversation was laughs and smiles, and talking about us shy people and our tendency. In a way I was shy, but also, I didn’t want anyone else. I was better off by myself. Especially with how invisible I naturally was.
The talk with Riley was nice. I actually felt like someone wanted me around for once, which surprisingly felt good after years of making sure I was left alone. So, when lunch ended, I was a little disappointed.
We uttered our goodbyes and set off our different ways to our last classes. For me, it was math. Oh, how I hated any math class. At least I didn’t have to take Gym, then. I was glad for this class in that aspect.
The class drudged on for what seemed like forever and when I finally heard the bell ring I was out in a flash, still slinging my bag over my shoulder. As I raced out to the parking lot, I decided to take the bus again. I wondered why I hadn’t seen Everett. I attempted to swallow the flashes of the nightmare that immediately surfaced, along with the bile that had rushed up my throat. Just as I reached the bus to get on early, a voice hailed me. Upon turning around, I recognized the person to be Riley. I grinned and waved as he ran over.
“Hey!” he greeted, almost out of breath. His head hung downward as he leaned against a bike rack, trying to steady his breathing. “You taking the bus?” he inquired, finally regaining normal breaths.
I nodded and looked at my watch. The driver should pull around in a few minutes, so I had time to waste. I could talk, especially if it was to Riley. He seemed a best friend already.
“Yeah, I usually do, but I’m going over to one of my mom’s friend’s houses. They’ve got some craft or project or something their doing together.” We both laughed. “You know moms, they’ve always got something or other planned to do together. So, how was your last class? Algebra, right?” He pondered over that for a minute, and then grimaced. “I’m guessing last period wasn’t so great then.” He immediately brightened up and changed the subject. “On a different note . . . , we should really hang out sometime."
I beamed at that idea. He really was my only friend. Yeah, Mitchell . . . but he really didn’t try his hardest, even I could tell that. I’d be glad to hang out with Riley anytime. “Yeah, we really should sometime.”
At that moment, the bus pulled around to the section of sidewalk we were at and I waved back to Riley eagerly. “See you tomorrow!” he called to me as I boarded the bus, looking back the whole time.

The next few days flew past. I talked to Everett after school when he came to pick up Valerie (putting the nightmare finally behind me as any memory of it faded away), and I hung out with Riley around Mitchell’s whole group. Once again, none of them really noticing me. Riley and I continued to converse whenever we could, the feeling of him being a best friend almost surfacing to a reality.
The two meetings completed each other. I would talk to Everett, and he would draw me out of reality with his sweet voice and beautiful face. Then Riley would complete it by his talks with me the next morning, which would drop me right smack into reality once again. Even Valerie began to talk to me, but she was still distant enough not to sit with us at lunch.
The more Riley talked to me, the less Mitchell tried to it seemed. This realization took its toll on me for quite a while before I let it go. I had Riley now, and he tried all the time, unlike Mitchell. And who cared about Mitchell not paying attention to me? I had Everett also, and that was enough alongside Riley. I hoped Valerie might drift over to my side too.
A week later it seemed things had taken a turn for the better as I got my lunch in the cafeteria. It was some kind of casserole that was made of who knows what. But that really didn't matter. I was happy for once in my life. There had been a spice added to the blandness of my surroundings, and somehow that made even the worst things okay. I strolled across the cafeteria traveling to my usual spot in the corner. But, as I sat down, I noticed Mitchell’s group, along with Riley, was already at another table and eating.
At that point I made a decision. I didn’t like my privacy anymore, since I had gained two “best” friends and possibly a third. So, I picked up my tray, took a deep breath, swallowed the lump in my throat, and made my march over to their table.
Once I reached my destination, I froze in fear. Why did I come over here? Why am I so stupid?! I cursed myself for even having the idea. I finally surmounted my fear, clearing my throat afterwards in an act to grab their attention. All heads turned my way. I was surprised for a few moments. I’d never been this noticed before, and I didn’t think I wanted this much attention. “M-may I sit over here?” I asked in their complete silence, pointing to an empty seat next to Riley.
They all nodded in approval and whispers went up among the group. “Being assertive today, are we?” Mitchell called across the table. I laughed and winked at him.
“I try!” I called back as I took my seat by my newfound best friend. He gave me his huge lopsided smirk and scooted his chair over to make room.
“Wow, this is a new you.” he laughed and stirred his casserole around. “I’ve never seen you want anything but privacy. I would never be able to do something like that.”
I leaned over and bumped him. “Well, I’ve got a new life now, and new friends. Things have changed for the better.”
“You’ve got that right. I didn’t really have friends before.” He nudged me with his elbow. Raising his fork up, he let the casserole drip off of it while he stared at it horrified. “What is with this casserole? I don’t even think it’s edible!”
I pushed my tray over to the side. “I’m not even trying. It’s only an hour before school’s over, so I’m holding out for a snack at home.”
“I’m with you.” he agreed, faking gagging noises. We both stood up with our trays, laughing. I bumped him with my shoulder again and we made our way over to the trashcan.
Throwing away our trash, I got a great chance to ogle over his “multicolored” eyes. “Have you ever noticed how pretty your eyes are?” I blurted out accidentally, immediately clapping my hand over my mouth in shock after I realized what I said.
He laughed even harder than he had been before. “Have you been ogling over my eyes the whole time?” he inquired, purposely making his gaze beautifully intense. “The whole time right now, that is.” That cleared up any questions that had been popping up in my head. I had thought he meant since the beginning of our friendship, but since he had just clarified, I had no choice but to tell the truth.
“Yes. I have the whole time while you’ve been scooping the goop off your plate. It was an inescapable opportunity, and there was no guarantee I’d have the chance again!” I explained, pouting and whining as I did so.
He ruffled my hair like he would to a child. “It’s fine. I mean, who wouldn’t be enthralled with me.” Then he turned on his best smoulder, wiggling his eyebrows.
Slapping his arm playfully, I headed back over to the lunch table to get my stuff, Riley trailing closely behind. As we picked up our things, Mitchell gave me a look and raised his eyebrows. I threw him a friendly glare and took off to Algebra 2 once again.

“Freedom!” I uttered hysterically as I reached the parking lot, breathing in fresh air. Escaping math was the greatest thing in the world, especially when Everett Caine was waiting by his car for you.
“Still taking the bus today?” he asked swaggering up beside me as I walked along the sidewalk. I looked at him and narrowed my eyes. “I’m taking that as a yes.” He watched as the hundreds of teens rushed out onto the all too small sidewalk, and a grin randomly spread across his face. “It seems you and Riley have been . . . close.” He made a scandalized face and grinned even wider.
I jabbed him in the ribs, but it didn’t seemed to faze him. “Shut up.” I muttered irritated. I looked up and he was still staring at me suspiciously. “Quit it!” I shoved him off the sidewalk, making him trip on one of the concrete barriers in a parking space. He steadied himself before falling face first, and rushed up to shove me back.
I bumped into the wall and laughed until I started crying. Time with Everett was definitely not boring. Before I knew it, Riley rushed over to break it up, in case someone might get hurt. “C’mon guys! Don’t kill each other!”
“Aw. You take all the fun out of it!” I huffed comically, crossing my arms like a six-year-old who hadn’t gotten her way. Everett glanced at me, then Riley. Arching one eyebrow, he mouthed ‘Oo-o-ooh.’ You know how people do that sound when they're making fun of someone liking you, or vice-versa. Yeah, that one. I shot him a glare, wishing for once in my life I had laser vision so I could burn right through his smug face.
He only laughed.
“Well, why’d you have to go reveal my plan?! Curse you, Riley.” Everett exclaimed jokingly. He was still laughing hard.
I hated him.
“Now, now, now. There will be no killing and no plans of it, you two.” Riley sounded like a mom disciplining her children. This, well, wasn’t far from the truth, considering it was me and Everett. He wagged his finger at us like he meant it, but he couldn’t erase the huge grin from his face --- that spoiled the act. Riley was opening his mouth to talk to me, when we heard a horn honk frantically multiple times and he hung his head in disappointment. “That would be my mom,” he declared, depressed. “Guess I’ll see you tomorrow, then.” And with that he took off to his moms old van, yelling “Will you quit with the horn?!” the whole way.
Everett suddenly turned to me. “Told you,” he confirmed simply.
I shot him another glare, but he was looking down at his shoes and scuffing them on the concrete. He had his hands shoved into his pockets --- the stereotype picture of a bad boy. I almost giggled, if not for the awkward silence that had taken hold of us.
I thought I might as well start a conversation, then. “How have you been lately?” Wow, that was lame.
He chuckled. “Good, I guess. A little beside myself, occasionally. But I’m fine now. I just need someone to talk to.” He turned those beautiful fiery eyes on me, and I almost melted.
We turned a corner on the sidewalk, and I felt it was my turn to speak up now. “Same here. I just need someone to talk to most of the time. Things have been changing for me. I’m a little more outgoing and now I’ve got two new best friends.” I drifted over and nudged him. “Yep, things have really changed.” I trailed off, staring at the sky.
The wind started to pick up pretty badly and I hugged my jacket close to me. I looked towards Everett and it seemed he was fine with the temperature change. Must be used to it . . . He continued the conversation without reluctance, apparently ignoring the cold. “Yeah, I can’t believe how things ha---“
He just stopped.
I kept walking, expecting him to catch up. But he stopped --- talking and moving both. I turned back to check on him, and I was graced with his hardened face once again. He was clenching then unclenching his fists like he wanted to punch someone. His face was creased in frustration and contorted in some kind of struggle. His gorgeous bright eyes were being swept with a black that got darker and darker.
“Cool. You’ve got those contacts that can change color! That’s awesome!” I exclaimed. I don’t know why I was so stupid at the moment. Maybe he was dazzling me again. “Look! They’re changing black! It’s so cool!”
He tried to force a grin, but it looked like he was fighting against something as the wind started to come in massive gusts instead of the steady breeze it was before. One of his eyelids actually started to twitch and I cocked my head at his behavior.
“Are you okay?” I took a few steps forward to lay my hand on his shoulder, but he suddenly backed away. He seemed to be mouthing my name, but I could’ve been seeing things.
Before I could even blink, He took off. But not at regular human speed --- no, no, nothing even near human speed --- but at a speed so that he was only a continuous blur of white as he dashed away.
I only backed away slowly, screaming ‘no’ over and over again in my head. I took off toward the bus, with never a second thought, never screaming like I truly wanted to, and never a look back at the nightmare that had just happened behind me . . .

The next few days I was terrified. Any chance I might have of running into Everett I avoided --- while still talking to Valerie. A hard combination. She and I had still not made much progress. We talked every now and then, but mostly we were just one step above acquaintances.
I continued to sit with Riley more and more, but I was horrified whenever I thought of possibly telling him what happened. It wasn’t that I thought he wouldn’t believe me; it’s that I didn’t want to expose Everett --- whatever he was.
Half of me swore he was not the creature that had almost killed me. Everett wouldn’t do that to me, would he? Yet, I couldn’t keep the other half of me from letting suspicions creep up into my mind. But whenever they did, I shoved them away. I couldn’t think that way about Everett. I had to stay unbiased until he explained this to me. Then, and only then, could I form opinions. And whatever he was, I would support him.
Wouldn’t I?