Twilight Dawning Hour

The Dawning Hour

Preface:

I kept walking forward. Loving so many people at a time hurt. Only earlier that month had I found out that the one I fell madly in love with is a vampire. His whole family willing to welcome me into their lives. I'd been bitten and the transformation had begun. The new ability I could use at any given moment to kill someone, and myself. Did I want this life? Life or Death, he had said to me. Or the lust could take over. How could I know, in those last fatal days, that a force darker than jealousy and stronger than Love... had begun to take hold

Moorcroft, Wyoming:

I woke to the sun shinning in my window. California sure is plentiful. Everything is always in order at my house. After sixteen years of being divorced and taking care of me, you'd think my mom would know how to take care of herself. At this house in San Diego, I was usually in charge. My mom, Sarah Miller, looks like anything but me. Her hair is chestnut brown, and her eyes are midnight blue. My mom could be a fictional character if she remembered to wear makeup once in awhile or even go shopping for this day and age.

I have lived in California most of my life. The other part? We lived with Jason Hayes for one year. Jason Hayes is my dad and also known as town fireman. His job always came first, I guess thats why mom left. Sarah wasn't very mature at her age back then, but she told me she never regretted what had happened. Jason always comes to visit us, rather than I visit him. As horrible as it is to admit, I hate the rain, which is why I hate to go and visit him in Moorcroft. Whats really weird though is that I love the snow. Sarah, Jason and Ethan never understood that about me. Only he did.

Ethan is Sarah's husband. They have been together for almost two years, I think. He is a really great guy and unlike my dad, takes care of us and then does his job. Him and my mom could pass off as brother and sister because they have the same hair and the same eyes. Those two have so much in common and it really freaks me out sometimes.

He is my fictional super hero that I have always dreamed I would one day meet and fall madly in love with. Of course at my school there weren't any he's. They all were self centered jerks. Even though the probability of meeting him is probably point one percent, I can wait. Hey!!!! It could happen! You can never stop a seventeen year old girl from fantasizing? Now can you? One day, I may just meet him, and that one day is going to come sooner than I expected.

"Honey" my mom whispered as we drove to the airport. "Please stay with me and Ethan" she nearly begged. Ethan was the one to keep her in place when I wasn't around, and of course I trusted him to make sure my mom didn't forget to get gas in her car.

"Mom" I tried. "Jason is a great guy, you of all people should know that, I'll be fine. You can call me anytime you want, and email me like crazy. I'm sorry but nothing you can say will make me change my mind." I attempted to sound as convincing as possible.

"But I'll miss you so much Mia! Ethan will too!" she was almost falling out of her seat.

I looked in the mirror and studied the reflecting girl. I have hazelnut hair that comes halfway down my back, it's very wavy. Oddly enough, my medium short bangs are straight. My eyes are even a sparkling clover green, and just like my mom, I'm extremely short. My dad's not short so it's going to be really weird when we meet, again.

We finally arrived at the airport and after I soothed my mom, I was on the plane to Moorcroft, Wyoming. Moorcroft is a very small town. Only 807 people live there, and lucky me, it rains a lot. Mabey if I get lucky enough, it'll snow. I don't exactly want to go and leave home, but Ethan's a professional football player. Sarah is always trailing behind him and they travel a lot. I rather not change schools every month or week. Who knows how much they move? Good old home California is going to be vacant for quite awhile.

I was the one to choose to go to live with my dad and now that I told him I'm coming, I won't go back on my word. Hey, who knows what will happen? I might even meet him there. After about two hours, the plane landed. It was about 11:30 P.M. and I was really tired. The rain came down really hard, and I was thankful when I saw Jason in the front of a very long line with a car.

I was half worried that he may show up with nothing but a hug. I tried to run as fast as I could, but it was pretty hard with all the bags I dragged along with me. If there was an award for the most packed, I would probably win. Once I got inside, I was greeted with a big welcome home hug. It was still cold in the car, I guess that Jason didn't want to get a new car. Jason's a really old fashioned kind of guy, just like my mom. No wonder him and Sarah got along long enough to have me and add another year.

My dad and I are relatively good friends, that is if thats what you call talking to each other on the phone once a month. We didn't usually have much to say to one another so we didn't always say anything at all. Jason then smiled one award winning huge perfect white teeth smile. That must have also been how he won over Sarah.

"So, how was the flight?" he didn't sound too thrilled.

"Oh, it was really long" I quietly managed to say.

We didn't talk much the rest of the twenty minutes we were driving and I was just fine with that. Instead, I just looked out the window at the forest. This was the most wilderness I'd ever come close to. When it came to camping, you could always count me out of your plans.

Jason pointed out some of the trees for me, even though I instantly forgot them. He also carelessly pointed out his friends houses. When we got into the house I ran straight up to my room and Jason went to bed. I was really relived about that, I was worried that he might try to talk more. If I did have to talk, it would have been about how tired I was.

My room is a beautiful scarlet pink, and the windows have black lace covering them. The room's freshly painted. The computer was in the corner, it didn't look like it had been on in a couple of years. Underneath it was a wooden desk with a hard wood chair. The Red phone was right next to it. At least Jason had some taste in colors, at least for me.

There were two bathrooms in our house, one upstairs, and one downstairs. I decided the upstairs was the better one. I took my bath room supplies up and unloaded it one by one. After all my things were on the shelves, Jason may want to use the downstairs bathroom more. This place wasn't exactly a mans place. I decided it was time to call it a night. I took a nice long hot shower, changed into my most comfortable sweats and tank top, then quickly dosed off to sleep.

My alarm did the favor of waking me. Thank gosh it was a radio or my ears might still be ringing. It was Monday, A.K.A. my first day of school. Not actually my first day considering it was a month into the school year, but I guess that didn't count. When I looked outside, I found Jason's truck to be gone. Another thing we had in common, were both early risers. To my disappointment it was raining outside, hard. Today I decided to wear a red and white striped south pole shirt with white sweats and a white jacket. I then applied smooth colors of makeup to my face.

After I was done getting ready I practically tripped down the stairs. I was a very clumsy person. If there was an injury to be had, I was always around for it. Marshmallow Madness cereal was my choice of breakfast for the day. Chocolate was very refreshing after eating a bag of airline peanuts. I tried to take as much time as I could to eat. When I was done with my dishes, I found a note written for me by Jason.

"Mia, I wanted to show you this in person but I had to go to work early. As a very very early birthday gift, I got you a Honda Cyvic Hybrid. I really hope you like it, it sure did cost a lot of money." :) Love, Jason

I knew the money part was no joke at all. That car must have cost at least 30,000 dollars. Of course it must have been Sarah's idea, dad would have never bought me a car used in the present. I was even thinking that he would buy me a exact replica of his car (and his car was really old!). I would have to remember to write a very long thank you email to Sarah. I was so excited that I ran outside. I almost scream I was so happy. I didn't have very much time to be all happy though because my tears of joy were interrupted. Just leave it to rain to interrupt a happy moment.

Once in the car, I turned on the heat and the radio. My school's name was PiltChuck High. I was almost neglected to go there after I saw the sign. It was really obvious where it was, even though I passed it about five times. I didn't feel very intelligent, but at least I always get A's so that made my day a bit better. I had brought an umbrella and it was really small. If I was any taller, I would have been soaking wet.

When I arrived at the school, no know was there yet and I didn't know where to find student parking. So I found a spot to park in the front, even though it most likely belonged to a teacher. The school was really warm inside. Our school colors were red and black, my favorite colors. Once I entered the office, I quickly spotted where to go, considering there were only about four desks. Behind the second desk stood a tall blonde. Her desk must have been mahogany because all the other desks were pretty darn big. She looked as if she were only in her late twenties but still very sophisticated.

"May I help you?"she asked in a cheerful voice.

"Yes, I'm Mia Hayes."

I responded in a sheepish voice. Her name tag read Elizabeth. She looked as if she had been waiting for me all along. Jason mush have filled her in on everything about me. That gave me a reason to fear my teachers. "Ok" she said taking a few sheets of paper from underneath the desk. "Here is your class schedule, and student driving is in the back. All you have to do is take a right at teacher parking. There should be a sign, somewhere." She muttered under her breathe.

Elizabeth then took out a map and showed me each quick route even though I had already mesmerized them all. At least I wouldn't look like a geek holding my map out. I took my papers and by the time I got outside, about one hundred cars were driving to the back. I was afraid that at any moment the teachers space I was parked in would show up so I quickly got in my car.

After finding the student parking, I got out of my car. There was a Pagani Zonda C12-S 7.3 parked three spaces down from me. There was also a Corvette ZR1 parked right next to it. At least I didn't have the only nice car there.

Most of the other people in the parking lot didn't notice me, but some did. They stared at me like I was some porcelain doll. I don't blame them though, every one thought thats how my skin looked. Finding my locker was the easy part, finding my class wasn't. I walked into class just as it began. I had Science for first period. The teacher Mrs. Swanson introduced me and sat me next to a girl named Emma. She looked almost exactly like Elizabeth, only younger. She introduced herself and we began an experiment. Mabey not, but we practiced.

Just as the bell rang, a guy also from my science class came up to me. “Hey Mia, I”m Adam Freeman.” He had short blonde spikes and was wearing a football jacket. He looked pretty tough (ha ha, yeah.).

“Nice to meet you” I answered shyly. I didn't want to be rude but there wasn't much to say. I stood there and decided right at that moment, this guy wasn't ever going to stop talking. I didn't have to know him to have that bit of information. It was really obvious.

“So, what class do you have next?”

“Geometry” I replied.

“Hey cool, we have the same class, I'll walk you there.” Adam seemed excited. I already knew where my next class was but what the heck. This might even get him to talk to me less.

Wrong!!!! Turns out we had the same class. The teacher even sat us next to each other. My theory turned out to be right. I couldn't get Adam to shut up. Possibly if I told him 'Sorry Adam, but I'm taken.' Or just for laughs 'Adam, I'm gay, so don't even try'. If I embarrassed him, it wouldn't be likely to talk to me again. How could I be so cruel? Adam deserved a chance (at friendship only!).

For third period I had computers with Emma. We seemed to get along just fine and had a lot in common. Except she adores Noah (some guy she keeps talking about) and I don't. Hopefully he doesn't break her heart. Emma knows how to work out and is not afraid to prove it. At last the lunch bell rang. Emma walked with me to lunch and introduced me to her other friends. 'Just like prada.' I thought to myself. We all blended in and that wasn't my goal. It's to blend out. School would be so exciting that way.

It took awhile for us to get our food. I chose a toasted bagel with strawberry cream cheese and chocolate milk. Adam came to sit with us with a few other guys from the football team. I sat next to Emma, Ashley and Samantha. These boys were pretty cute, but no match for what I was about to face next.

Ashley seemed really shy. Her hair gleamed brilliant blonde and her eyes hazel. Her clothes were definitely on my 'To Buy' list. How could she pull that look off? I knew the answer. Rich family. 'Ash' is what she wants everyone to call her now. I could over here her talking to Ashley. “I just don't like how long my name is.” Luckily, my name was pretty short, only three letters.

Samantha had curly frizzy blonde hair, but she was really nice. It turned out that she was also a straight A student. Though gossiping seemed to be her interest. Definitely not a girl to fight with. “Mabey you can join our click Mia.” she spoke to me. “Mia” she repeated. “That's such a pretty name. I wish I could have a name like that. So unique and powerful”. Then she got into a discussion about it with Ash.

I ate my lunch slowly, trying to focus on what Emma was saying but I was too distracted. At a table on the far left end of the cafeteria was sitting a family of five. They were already done eating even though lunch had just began and were staring off into mid space.

There were three guys and two girls. Three of them looked older than the other two. The first guy looked like any other average guy, except he had about twice the muscle. His hair was a peach kind of color and his eyes were almost... black? That was very strange. Mabey he was just really tired, like me. Lets give it up for the purple-ash eyes!!!!!

The second boy look just as strong as the first, except he had brown hair that went down to his ears. The look in his eyes didn't quite frighten me. They have a teddy bear type look. It's tempting to go up to him and hug him. Think about how people would think about me then. “New Comer warms up to strange guy”.

The third boy didn't look nearly as strong as the other two, but not necessarily weak. His eyes were a chocolate brown and he too had hair that went to his ears. It was blonde. How much do I love blonde hair? Hmm, just as much as a normal girl loves chocolate, only more. Or possibly diamonds. People say their a girls best friend, but I think not. 'All you ever need is to love, and be loved in return'. My favorite quote.

The first girl sitting across from the strongest had red hair that flowed flawlessly down to her ribs. Red eyes? She must have been wearing contacts. A lot of people did now. How strange it was as her mood seemed to affect offers. The guy across from her was staring at her as if to say “Knock it off” or “Cheer up”. It still didn't change.

The second girl had black hair that went practically down to her waist. Her eyes sparkled a grassy green. She was thin and slender with more curves than I had. The outfit she wore seemed to be made just for her. They all had looked inhumanly beautiful, but I guess all angels do. That's the word to describe them. Angelic, even if they weren't angels. "Who are they?" I asked Samantha.

"Those are the Taylors. They usually don't talk to people, or each other.” Sam's voice's symbolic. “They probably believe they are better than us or something” Assumption can lead to horrible things and above all for Sam, gossip. “If they talked to people, Mabey they may even be in our clique.” Now I knew what would be the gossip for today.

“There grades are perfect though." Emma added with little interest.

"What are their names?", I was starting to get interested. I might wanna try to get them to talk. If that happened, I would be standing out. My mission was set, but where and when to start. I may even like one of the guys. Or become best friends with one of the girls.

"The first guy is Micheal, Next to him is John and then Kyle. “ She said his name with distaste. “The one with the blonde hair and red eyes is Riley, the one with the black hair and green eyes is Leah. Leah, Riley and Kyle are all blood related. John and Micheal were adopted by Dr. Julian and his glamorous wife Faith. Something happened and Faith couldn't have any more kids, or Mabey she didn't want any.” She paused. “Riley, Micheal and John are the oldest. Then it's Kyle and Leah. They are all together. Riley and Micheal, Leah and John. Kyle apparently doesn't date. We, being Ashley and I, think he's gay. Gay pride! Waho!”

Even as she spoke the words, I couldn't help but look over, and to my surprise, Riley and Kyle were staring at me. “Watch out” I heard Emma say. “Sam forgot to say that the reason Kyle doesn't date is because Riley won't let him”

“So he listens to everything his sister says?” I asked in surprise. I thought Emma lied..

“Not really” She continued. “Riley always seems to know when a girl is interested in Kyle. If the girl wants to ask him out or make a move, she simply goes up to them and tells them that they need to back off.” Hatred flared in her eyes. “Riley can be very persuasive, threatening you without really saying it. She did that to me once.” I felt bad for her but I looked back.

I couldn't stop but blushing. As I looked into his chocolate brown eyes, I saw something I've never seen before. I saw desire. Why was he staring at me like that? Riley caught my glimpse. She started to get up when John stopped her. Thats must've mad her upset because she left the cafeteria. Before that though, I saw her whisper something in Kyle's ear that made him red. With anger, the color quickly faded.

“Where you just staring at Kyle?” Emma seemed to have awakened me out of a phase. I guessed that she had watched the scene.

“Mabey, do you blame me?” Emma must've liked him because her next response was a bit challenging.

“No, but don't forget Riley. Like I told you, she's very protective.” Why did all the hot guys have to be off limits. There goes making them take to people. I need to stand out Darn It! “Is he that bad at defending himself and telling Riley to back off?” I nearly laughed but stopped.

After a few seconds, Emma started again, “Yes, well...” She paused, as if editing out some of what she's going to tell me next. “Last week, Kyle got into a fight with Riley.. in front of the WHOLE SCHOOL. No one really knows what it was about, I think it was a girl. I saw her crying afterwards. Anyway, Micheal, John and Leah came to break it up. They drove home after.

“Wow, apparently I've got it all wrong. Think I have a chance” I asked nervously.

“Yes” She said in a over giggly voice. “If you want Riley to kill you Unless some how she ends up in a hospital for the rest of the year”.

“Is Kyle still staring over here?” I asked, ignoring Emma's last comment.

“Yes, so is Leah. But don't worry, she seems nice enough.” Emma's voice went from giggly to a serious tone.

“Don't look over at him” I literally begged. I was happy when she didn't argue. Suddenly the bell rang, we quickly cleared the table and went to our next class. As we walked in Literacy, I saw kyle, sitting down at a table. It took me a minute or two, but I suddenly realized that kyle was looking at me in horror. Ms. Vanderpool welcomed me to the class (which I hated) and sat me next to... guess who?

“Hi, I'm kyle”, his talking to me sent a wave of shock.

“I'm Mia”, I felt like I was going to melt into his eyes. Just as soon as he finished listening to me, he turned away . What was so scary about me? Did I truly look that bad? I then remembered Emma. After that fight, was that it? He's just going to let Riley control him. I tried again. “So, fight with your sister?” It wasn't any of my business but I wanted to know.

He looked at me questionably. “At lunch” I added in before he might turn away.

“It was just about some car thing. Riley can be extremely sensitive.” Yikes! I would kill my brother (if he wasn't a baby and living with another one of my dads X-Wife's.) if he called my sensitive. But I loved him too much, I always visited him. He only lives twenty minuted away. Anyway, these two might need counseling lessons. Big time!

When the period ended, Ash came over and talked to me. “Looks like Riley might have a new person to talk to today.”

“I'm not going to let her. I don't see her right now, but I'll go and run to my car after Health just to make sure.” I managed a laugh. Health was pretty good, except for the fact that we had to learn about private things we had already learned in the fourth grade. Almost everyone laughed, except for me. “A matures” I muttered to myself. I tried to quickly leave when school finally ended but there where a lot of cars in the parking lot trying to go home too. There goes leaving at the speed of light.

'Accipere quam facere praestat injuriam' Leah spoke to Kyle as she walked across the parking lot to him. It was more a whisper than a regular voice. No one else seemed to notice. I barely even made out what they were saying.

'Avarus animus nullo satiatur lucro' he replied. Private conversations by language. Cool idea, I'd have to tell my friends later. They started talking in such low voices, I couldn't hear any more. Then they both looked over at me. What are they saying? I asked myself as I got into my car.

“Did I do something wrong?” I thought out loud. I realized that they were still staring at me so I started to drive away. It was then that I heard a tap at my window. As if answering my question, there Leah was. I rolled down my window and she spoke in an angelic kind of way.

“Hi Mia, I'm Leah” I just sat there confused. “Kyle's sister.” She wanted to make sure I knew who she was. “Listen, I know Kyle might not talk a lot and sometimes tense up, but he has twitching problems. If he doesn't talk, it's just because he's really shy and because of Riley.” I could see Kyle's moth drop open. He must have over heard Leah. “Well, I better go before his skin turns a normal color.” And then she left. Right when she got into the car, Kyle started talking to her, and he didn't look comfortable. I just laughed.

As I backed out I saw in my rear view mirror, Riley staring at me. The intensity in her stare was no where near Kyle's. She looked as if she wanted to come over to my car and tear me to pieces. As if Micheal read my mind too, he stopped Riley before she could get out.

After I got home I decided to take a little nap. I then drifted into a deep sleep. 'There was fog all around me, and no one would answer my cries. Why didn't anyone hear me. Then, there she was. Riley, her eyes a burning red. Was that her natural eye color? She said something to me but I couldn't understand what. And then she came at me.' I woke up and looked at my clock. It read 4:00 p.m. What a weird dream, I thought to myself.

My homework was fairly easy, and didn't take very long to complete. When I was done with my homework I went downstairs and put some baby back ribs in the oven, and got two bowels of fresh salad. As much as I love my dad, he could be a messy eater. So just to be sure, I gave us each a fork, a knife, and a napkin (I gave him two). While I waited for Jason to get home and dinner to be done, I checked my email. I had one from mom and another from a no name. I read my moms first.

Dear Mia, I really miss you, so does Ethan. Are you sure you don't want to come home? Sure we travel a lot but it'd be great if you were here with us. Well, right now were in Florida. Ethan's team won the semi championship. I just love the sun here. It reminds me of California. So how is it in Moorcroft? Is it raining? Has your dad tried cooking again? Who knows who he may kill this time if he plans on making beef rye soup. Oh, sorry honey, I forgot. Hey, do you remember when my dentist appointment is, I might have to reschedule. Have you met any one yet? Best of wishes! Email me ASAP!

Love,

Sarah

Wow! I should have known. Mom never writes short letters unless something is mentally wrong with her head or physically wrong with her body. The next would probably be longer. I hurried to write back.

Hey mom! I really miss you too! I'm sure I don't want to come home. This town is pretty nice and peaceful. I really don't want to keep switching schools either mom, I'm staying here. Congratulations for Ethan and his team. Did you say Florida? I would love to go there one day, and no. It doesn't have to be soon so please don't try to turn this around. Yes, it's raining here, a lot. Don't worry about cooking because you know that is my specialty. If Jason even trys to cook, I'll call in the FBI, Ok? And your dentist appointment is next Thursday at 2:00 P.M. Of course I met a few nice friends .

Love you mom, Mia

Could Sarah possibly worry any more? After I was done with my emails, I switched to my Internet. I went to Wikipedia to search for what the words Leah and Kyle had spoken. It turns out Leah had said “It is better to suffer and injustice than to do and injustice” and Kyle said “A greedy mind is satisfied with no amount of gain.” What did this mean? Were they talking about a girl, or homework??????

I shut down my computer, and I walked downstairs and get our dinner out of the oven. After everything was served, I ate mine and went upstairs. Jason worked until 8:00 P.M. I remembered. No reason to wait up, I'd be to tired. After I showered and changed into my favorite sweats and tank top, I went to bed. That night I had the same dream again. Except, the fog become solid, and Pace was there.

I woke to the horrible sound of rain against my window. What new? I was suddenly extremely grateful to Jason and Sarah for buying me a car. As usual, Jason had already left but he left another note saying he switched shifts and would now be home by 7:00 p.m. and no later. When I arrived at school I was greeted by Noah, a boy with no muscular structure what so ever and brown hair with foolish green eyes. I suppose this was the guy Emma had referred to. Still, he seemed nice enough. He walked me to class and it turns out we also sit next to each other. Something I hadn't noticed before.

Mr. Walker (our biology teacher) just wouldn't shut up. He was talking the whole period about the natures of cougars. I swear about half the class was asleep. The only entertaining part of bio was when the bell rang, the whole class jumped up out of their seats and fell head first onto the ground. “Hey” Adam said catching up to me as he walked to my next class.

“Hi Adam” I was still laughing.

“So, I was just wondering. Would you want to hang out this Saturday? My parents are out of town for the weekend and i'm throwing a party.”

I hesitated. Would Jason ever agree to this? “I don't know, I'll have to ask Jason”

“Cool. So, see you at lunch then.” Lunch was a huge drag. I was even thinking about skipping Literacy. I couldn't help but basically staring at Kyle the whole time. If Emma hadn't pointed it out, I might have never noticed. My checks flushed flushed a hard red. As we walked to class, it started to rain really hard. Everyone ran and bumped into each other. So much entertainment in Moorcroft.

To my surprise Kyle was already in class, and waterless. How did he move so fast? For the first time in my life, I was scared. I didn't know if he would confront me about staring at him, or just ignore me like the other week I had been here. Once again I asked myself, did I do something wrong? And once again, someone answered.

“Hey Mia” Kyle spoke so swiftly, “How was your lunch?” he smiled as he said the last part. Now I truly blushed, in fact, I had to turn my head away and cover my face completely with my hair.

“Fine” I mumbled. Why was he choosing now to finally talk to me. I thought to myself.

“Audio, video, disco” he mumbled to himself.

I couldn't help but look his way, and his eyes met mine. When the teacher called on Kyle to answer what elaboration was, he answered without looking away from me. I finally tore my eyes from his. When Ms. Vanderpool had us do our work, Kyle and I finished first while everyone else was still on the first page.

I finally worked up the courage to say something.

“Kyle, what was that, that you said in that strange language?”

He looked up at me in surprise.

“You heard me?” Was he acting dumb?

“Of course I heard you” I tried to sound dumbfound.

“It's Latin, do you speak it?”

“No” If I spoke it, I'm sure I would know he was speaking Latin.

“Oh, when did you hear me speak it then?” His beautiful pale face was serious.

“In the parking lot about a week ago. And just now” I stuttered at the last part, I shouldn't have been listening in.

“We were just talking about class and how it went” He looked away for a minute, but then his face turned stone hard. “What I said just now was that I hear, I see, I learn. It's a quote of thinking”.

“When Leah went over to your car and started to make me look like a fool, what was your reaction?” Why did he care?

“What do you mean?” I was dumbfound now.

“It's just, usually I can read someones face. And I can't seem to read yours.”

“That's because I choose not to show my emotions. After a year of practice, it's gets really easy.” The bell rang and Kyle was out of the class so fast I had to wonder. After school, when I was walking to my car, Emma ran right over.

“So Samantha, Ashley and I are going to go over to the mall to get out dance outfits and something to wear for Adam's party in two days. Want to come? It'll be a lot of fun.”

“Of course! I love to shop!”

“Awesome, I'll pick you up at 2:30 p.m.”

“Wait Emma. Who are Ashley and Samantha going with?”

“Ashley is going with James and Samantha is going with Adam, if she ever even asks him.” At dinner that night, I decided it was time to ask Jason about the party.

“Jason” I started while we were eating a Hawaiian plate. “Emma, Samantha and Ashley are going to the mall on Thursday to shop for a dress and party outfit. Could I go?”

“What party exactly are we talking about?” Uh Oh

“Adam Freeman's. It's this Saturday and I'll be with all my friends.” “Girlfriends” I quickly added.

“As long as your back for dinner. And if your not, I do have a loaded gun Mia. I know how to crash a party.” The last part made me laugh and this time, Jason even joined in. I had a lot of trouble sleeping that night. My nightmares just wouldn't rest. Riley seemed to have a huge effect on me. It's almost as if she was putting these images in my head.

It was the same thing every night. The dreams all ended the same way, Riley killing me. The next day was fairly bright outside. Though there was fog all over my car. Strange, there wasn't fog any where else. I must of imagined it because by the time I got into my car, it was gone.

On my way to school, I kept thinking about what I was going to wear for Adam's party and the Winter Galla. Mabey blue would look nice, but I also really liked red. It was a tough decision. First I had to ask a guy.

I tried to concentrate on my nails and my hair, but I didn't have a very easy time doing that with Kyle staring in my direction. I could see the intensity of his stare burning right into my soul.

Suddenly Joshua walked up. What did he want? “So, the Winter Galla is coming up next Friday. I also just happen to be free that night.” I could see where this was going and I didn't like it.

“Joshua, I'm sorry but I'm already going with someone” I actually sounded convincing.

“Oh” there was hurt on his face. I felt really bad about it. I absolutely hated making anyone unhappy.

“Who are you going with?” Hope swelled up in his eyes.

“I'm going with...” I hadn't expected him to ask who, great. I was utterly speechless.

“She's going with me” Kyle had saved my life.

“Darnet, why him over me?” he muttered as he started to walk away from our table.

“Thank you so much for that.” I said as soon as Joshua was out of hearing distance.

“Your welcome, so when should I pick you up?” He wasn't kidding! He was taking me to the Winter Galla!!

“Eight o'clock” was all I could even say, my heart started to race.

When I left Health I noticed Kyle standing right next to the door. I nearly smacked him in the face, on accident of course. I had to admit, he looked amazing. The way his eyes melted into chocolate, his beautiful smile, his amazing blonde hair. Every time I saw him, it was like a fire alarm going off In my head.

“Hey Mia” His voice was velvety smooth.

“Hi Kyle” I once again, couldn't stop blushing. I hoped Riley didn't notice Kyle over here.

“Leah wanted to know if she could help you pick out an outfit for the Winter Galla. She would ask you herself but right now she's in class.”

“Oh, well. I'm going with a few friends down to the mall today. She can ride with me there.” I thought I heard a horn honking and when I turned back around Leah was by Kyle's side.

“I'd love to come” Leah said. She looked pretty excited. I had to call Emma to tell her Leah was coming too and that I was driving her there. Strangely, Emma didn't care. It was only a fifteen minute drive to the mall from my school so we said nothing in the car.

When we finally arrived, we quickly spotted Emma, Samantha, and Ashley. Leah seemed to be very quiet until we went into a different section than the other three. There were so many red dresses to choose from! This was definitely my kind of place.

“Oh” I heard Leah whisper. “This red dress would look absolutely amazing on you!” She held up a red satin dress.

“It's perfect!” And it was.

Next was the accessories. I had a hard time but I finally settled on red/black bangles, silver hoops, a red chocker, and black sparkling high heels. I would have never found any of these beautiful things if it wasn't for Leah. She was so in tune with fashion! We met the others at a pizza parlor. Sam had gotten a teal lace dress with two green bracelets and blue flats. Ashley bought a yellow dress/corset and two inch orange high heels. Emma's out fit was the best of them both. Her slim black dress fit into her every curve. Her black heels fit her perfectly, and her blue purse looked like it was from a Vogue girl magazine. We chatted for a few hours and decided to call it a day. I said my good byes and left with Leah.

“So” Leah said as soon as we were in the car. “You like Kyle, don't you?” Before I could answer, Leah started again. “Well of course you do or you wouldn't be going to the dance with him. I think he really like you too. I can see it in his eyes. Oh, and don't worry about Riley. She's so sensitive, like Kyle said.” How did she know that Kyle had said it to me? “Riley just wants to protect Kyle, keep him and others from getting hurt.” Leah stopped talking and out of the corner of my eye, saw her look straight out the windshield. He eyes were blank and cloudy.

Leah's body didn't move and it turned a hard wall type look. She might feel bad about what she'd said. Riley and Leah may be friends.

We pulled up to a stop sign and Leah got out without a word. She waited until I had left and when I looked back, she wasn't there. Going down to Leah's house could end up in a fight. Riley'd get mad I came. Kyle and Riley might fight. Everyones else will stop the fight. It'd be all my fault. I drove home at a faster speed. Just as I set dinner on the table, Jason came in. He looked pretty tired. He seemed like he was smelling the air and quickly threw off his boots, and jacket.

“Hmm, this smells delicious, reminds me of your moms cooking. You really take after her you know.”

“Yeah, a lot of people say that when they see my cooking. Mom taught me everything she knows.”

“So. How was shopping?” He didn't seem really interested but it was nice to ask.

“It was great. Leah Taylor came and helped me pick out a beautiful dress. Emma, Sam, and Ashley dresses are so gorgeous!”

“That's great honey. Who are you going to the Galla with?” I didn't know how he might react when I told him. Had he heard about the school fight?

“I'm going with...” I stuttered. “Kyle Taylor, Leah's brother”. Jason's didn't even flinch. This reaction was much better than I'd thought it might be.

“I'm happy for you. Kyle's a smart boy. Their family is very nice, Dr. Julian doe's a great job at work.”

I had no idea why I seemed so surprised. Jason's a fireman. There's a fire almost everyday and burned victims. He always rides with them to the emergency room, leading up to Dr. Julian. Jason gave me my space, and in return I gave him his. We ate the rest of our dinner in silence and after I put all dishes in the dishwasher and set it to go, I went upstairs to my computer. I remembered there was a no name email that I had forgotten to check a week ago.

Mia, it is so nice to talk to you again. After all, we haven't talked in almost a year now? Isn't that right? Well, I see you've made friends with two of the Taylors. Now there isn't a surprise. Just can't stay away from danger. Can you Mia?

-A Old Friend

After I closed the email, I read another one I'd gotten resently. It was also a no name.

You really don't check your email much. Sarah was right. Just in case you get a very important email, I suggest you check it more often. I'm coming down to visit you soon, and you better not be still hanging around with Kyle and Leah Taylor because that wouldn't make me very happy.

-An Old Impatient Friend

The last was from after school.

I saw Kyle with you after health class. You must really like him because I saw how you looked at him with those puppy dog eyes. He will never love you Mia, never. Kyle can't love anyone or anything. He'll never understand you, and you will never understand him. At least not until after I visit. By then, you'll be reborn into a new world. Stay away from him.

P.S. He isn't human. He's so much more than that. Just like me.

~Pace~

I was really scared after the last email. Pace was my ex boyfriend. I dated him for two months last year. Everything was fine until he started trying to control my life. I finally broke up with him and told him never to talk to me again. It must have really hurt him because he dispersed and didn't come back until this year (I heard from my friend).

I almost called the cops but why would I do that when I have Jason downstairs with a gun. After a few minutes I decided that I wouldn't write back because that would just provoke Pace, and if he got anywhere near me, I'd get Jason. Besides, Why should I be worried? Pace doesn't even know where I live. He must have been high or something. I turned off my computer and then crept into my bed. I slept seamlessly that night. No more nightmares.

School was fine as usual today, but extremely quiet. Half way through computers it started to snow! I was so excited! I hadn't seen snow for about five years! Just as class ended, Emma and I ran outside. We even started to throw snowballs at each other as we walked to lunch. My hair was completely drenched by the time we got into the cafeteria. Even the Taylors seemed to be laughing and talkative.

Noah came over to our table and started talking about some snowball fight that was going to happen after lunch. “So Mia, Emma, want to come?” he asked very persuasively.

“Of course we will, that'll be so fun! But just to warn you, Mia and I have mad throwing skills” Emma said.

“Yeah, so you better not try to mess with us” I chimed in laughing.

“Hey, Mia. Why don't you like the rain, but you love the snow? Snow is just frozen water.” Emma asked me, apparently curious. This was random, but expected.

“I really have no idea, snow is just so fun to play in, you can't really throw rain at each other and have fun.” My point was made because Emma didn't say anything more about it.

“Do you girls have any dates to the Winter Galla yet?” Noah asked, I hadn't noticed that he was still there. “I'm still available”. It seemed pretty obvious that he wanted to go with one of us.

“In that case, Noah, would you like to go to the dance with me?” Emma said shyly.

“Heck yeah, how about you Mia? Do you have a date?”

“Actually,yes, I'm going with Kyle Taylor.” I sounded too happy. I remembered about talking to Leah in the car about him. That memory brought back shutters. Emma and Kyle both looked at me strangely. I thought I had already told Emma who I'm going with.

Noah was the first to speak. “Your going with Kyle?” If the expression on his face with curious before, it was surprised now.

“Yes, she is. And if you have a problem with that, we're going to have a problem.” Emma was the best kind of friend you can ask for. Always defending me.

“Uh, no. No problem. I just didn't think he.. I mean, after the fight with Riley...” Noah knew he had lost and gave up. After lunch was the best snow ball fight ever! Our science teacher even joined in (of course we all took him down like the mad scientist he was). I saw Riley, Leah, John, Micheal, and Kyle were having fun. No one tried to take Micheal down though because we thought he would beat us all down. I threw a couple of snow balls at Kyle and he noticed (he he).

What happened next was a complete surprise! Kyle came over and joined my snow ball fight. I tried to throw another one at Kyle, but I missed. We started laughing so hard my throat hurt, but in a good way. I attempted to throw one at Leah but I missed. She then started throwing some at Kyle. Micheal came over to join and so did John but Riley went straight to class. As I walked to class Kyle followed which was embarrassing. I slipped and Kyle caught me. He was so sweet.

In Literacy we had a two page essay to work on, but I had already done it yesterday. That left me only one other person in the room who was also done yeah! It was Kyle. We talked about homework and the Galla coming up next weekend. About the party, who's coming and who's not. Sadly Kyle wasn't coming because he was going camping with his family.

After school I went to the parking lot and found Adam leaning against the door.

“Listen, Sam asked me to the dance and I have no idea what to say”

“Oh, well, yes! Why?”

“I don't even know her Mia. I've heard that she gossip's a lot though?” his eyes looked very very sheepish.

“That's not a problem. You do too Adam so don't put her down. Sam loves to paint, act, model, dance and sing. She's also loves snowboarding.” The look in his eyes seemed to change at the last part.

“Wow, we have more in common than I thought. Do you think she'll gossip the whole time or actually talk?” The last part was meant as a joke. “Bye Adam”. Which out another word I got into my car, but was stuck behind Kyle and the domestic Riley who was in front of him. She just kept staring at me. It didn't look like she wanted to go any where. I had no idea why Riley resented me so much. I could see her turn around to stare at Kyle. It looked like they were talking to each other, but their mouths never moved.

Riley finally turned around but still didn't move. Kyle looked at me in his car mirror. He looked at me as if he wanted to apologize, but didn't say a word. Instead Micheal went over to her car and placed his hand on the window. With out word, the car started to move, possibly Riley's afraid of him. What were they doing? John was in her car. I could see him talking to her.

Then the car started to move again and by the time it was out of the parking lot, Micheal got into the car. They left so quickly that I didn't had no time to even think straight. When I got home I saw a familiar car in my drive way. It was the Corvette ZR1, Riley's car. What was she doing here?

As I got out of my car I started to head inside but Riley was at my front door step. Her red hair was curled and moving with the breeze. Her eyes glowed as red as flames. I wonder how she got her eyes like that. “Mia” Her voice was as hard as the pavement I was standing on. “I want you to stay away from Kyle.”

Emma was right. I thought I'd gotten lucky and Riley forgot that I liked Kyle. “Riley, did I do something to you that I don't recall?”

“Yes, you met my brother. I don't want you around him. You may like him a lot, but you need to back off” Was Riley actually threatening me?

There was no way I was going to let her talk like this to me. “And if I don't?” Right when I said it, I regretted it.

She laughed before answering. “You really don't to know. You may think you know us, but you have no idea. Just stay away from Kyle, and I won't have to answer your question.”

Now it was my turn to be mad. “I'm not going to stay away from Kyle unless he tells me to. It's not like I'm planning on killing him or anything Riley. Now if you'll excuse me, I have homework to do.” She didn't move. Honestly, I was afraid of her. The way she started at me, I didn't know if she was planning to kill me right then and there. It took almost twenty minutes of silence, but she left.

After I completed my homework I got dressed in my pajamas. Just as I was about to go to bed, I saw a dark figure outside my window. As soon as I walked out the door, I knew I had made a mistake. “Well hello there Mia” the voice was familiar. “How are you today? I just hope you had a good flight.” I still couldn't see the person behind the voice.

“Who are you?” I asked in the bravest tone I could manage. I realized I left my phone inside. Stupid move number two.

“Silly girl, I'm Pace. We go to school together, I sit next to you in biology”. His voice was mocking, like a waitress waiting for you to take your order. This was worse, much much worse. Pace's a dangerous manipulating guy. He'll make you believe what you want. Give you everything, then take it away. Pace did sit by me in biology, but that was at my old school. What was he doing here? As if he knew exactly what I said he answered. “Mia darling, I'm here because I wanted to see you. Don't you miss me?”

“No” I said backing up against my door. “Why would I miss you, we only went out for two months. And you better leave before I get Jason.” I wanted to sound as angry as I could. My face became as white as a ghost. The expression on my face was horror.

“Exactly honey, two great months. And Jason has been sleeping for quite awhile so don't you threaten me. And he wouldn't hear you if you scream. I'm to quick to make another mistake” He flashed a wicked grin.

I started “You used to yell at me all the time and never let me decide who I got to hang out with. If you call that great, your insane. Now go home and don't email me ever again.” I moved my hand around, trying to feel for the door handle.

“If you really want it this way Mia. You could have just stayed inside and you'd be perfectly safe for now, but your imagination is just a bit too over imaginative. It's as if you see a shadow and go 'Yippy! The circus is in town! The circus is in town!'. You were always a sucker for the circus. We used to go there all the time”. Pace started to walk towards me, or at least I thought. In nearly half a second, he was right next to me. “Do you remember last year when I dispersed and didn't come back until this year? Well, things had come up.” Where was he going with this? He started again, “I was walking home from school when I noticed this group of guys staring at me, I tried to run and the next thing you know? I woke up and I was a vampire”

I really couldn't stop myself from laughing but I quickly realized he wasn't so I stopped and listened. “They taught me how to control my thirst, in the first few months, it's very hard. Once you get it though though, it's rather delicious.”I gasped. Part of me wanted to run from Pace, the other wanted to stay and ask questions. “Pace” I started, “Why didn't you tell me?” I couldn't believe the words coming out of my mouth. I really did believe him though.

“When you brake up with someone Mia, and tell them never to talk to you again. It really makes it hard to talk to them.” His voice suddenly sounded angry. When I looked up again (which I knew I shouldn't have) his eyes were pitch black. This frightened me more than the truth. “I don't love you anymore Mia, and I will again.” Relief was all I could feel, but if he only wanted to say this, why didn't he just call or keep emailing? “I didn't want to call you though and emailing isn't as fun as this” It was starting to get very weird. “I have a gift for you.

Just as soon as he finished, I started to run into the forest. That wasn't a very good idea. Even though I was a very good runner, he was faster. It was inhuman, but thats what he was. “You can't run from me Mia, and you can't run from this.”

He then put his hand on the back of my neck, with the other holding my hands back and flashed me his teeth, extending two of them. I felt the pain in my arm as I heard a familiar angelic voice. “Leave her alone!” it shouted from only a few feet away. I felt a aching pain as Pace dropped me to the forest ground. I heard a few screams and it took me only three seconds to figure out they were mine. My arm was burning as if it were on fire. I couldn't stop the screaming. The pain was getting worse and worse.

I wanted to run up to my house and get my dad but my legs wouldn't move. All I can do is lay here on the ground, helpless. Though Pace only bit me on the arm, I'd surly die of blood loss and pain. As much as I wanted to get up and kill Pace myself, pain hit me every time I tried to move.

“Goodbye Mia” he said cruelly in my ear, and then everything went black.

Visitors:

I woke up at what seemed hours later. It was when I sat up that I noticed I wasn't in the forest anymore. I was in a soft peach room on a king size bed. The mattress was comfy but I got up anyway. For the second time in my life, I was truly afraid. I was pitiful, yet again. “Mia” I turned around to see Kyle standing in the corner of the room. He was now beside me. Was he one of them too? “Are you Ok?” he seemed worried. Kyle was at my side within a second.

“Not really. My arm burns.” I looked down to see my oh so fragile arm wrapped in a bandage. I fought back a scream. My pain must have hurt Kyle because he was laying me on the bed again. Leah was by his side before I blinked.

“ It's going to be alright Mia” She suddenly spoke. “Your at our house. After that jerk... hurt you,Kyle brought you here to our dad.” Her voice sounded so beautiful but at the same time, worried. Just like Kyle's.

“Is Jason Ok” I asked, looking around the room finding what I was looking for. A clock read eleven thirty, it wasn't as late as I presumed. Knowing I had already figured out, they said nothing. After five minutes of quiet Kyle finally spoke.

“I knew him, Pace, not too long ago. He even came to live here for awhile.” He was choosing his words carefully. “The... Issue was to hard for him to handle to he left.”

“Is he really a...” I didn't know how to say it. The term sounded really silly. Part of me believed him, but part of me thought he was on crystal meth. If he was a vampire, did that mean the Taylors were also? “A vampire?”

“Mia, there are some things your won't understand about this”

“Is he?” I didn't want to wait around all night while my arm burned.

Leah answered my this time. “Yes Mia. Our whole family is too, but we don't hurt people. We feed off animals and no more than that. We've all vowed never to harm a human by our choosing. Unless of course, they want us to turn them.” Kyle eyed her, not liking the way she finished the question.

“Then how can you come out during the day?” Were they all on crystal meth? Or was it something stronger? Like excise, coke, pipes, or shooting up.

Leah laughed. “Do you believe every story that you hear? All that stuff about stake, silver, garlic, coffins. We sleep, but certainly not in those. Yes, we have regular beds. Like Kyle's.” She looked at the bed I had been sleeping in. We were all silent for awhile, but then my arm started to burn again. I fell down to the floor clutching to my arm. This time, a scream did escape.

“Mia, Mia. What's wrong?” His tone was urgent now. Even in all of this pain, his face, his voice, were all I could think about.

“My arm, it's burning!” I couldn't stand the heat I was facing.

“Don't worry, everything is going to be fine.” There was doubt in his voice this time. Leah left and cam back with a small needle.

“Don't come near me with that thing!” I said. I hated needles, spiders, and sharks. But most of all needles. “What did Pace do to me Kyle? Why is my arm burning?” I said as Leah put the needle into me. The pain was gone momentarily, I knew it was going to come back.

“Pace, he. He bit you on your arm, just before I could stop him. Then he... left. Once a vampire bits a human, they start to turn. That's why your arm burns so bad.” He was looking into my eyes with such intensity, I thought I was going to faint. I waited for him to say something, but he didn't. Instead, he picked me up, and started to run. The air against my arm helped stop the burning, but not completely. I had so many questions to ask Kyle, but right now wasn't the time. When we got to his car, he put me in the front seat and ran to his side. Leah came along and sat beside me.

When I opened my eyes I saw that we were in front of my house. I must have fallen asleep because I didn't remember anything else. All lights were off in my house, Jason was still sleeping. At least I wouldn't have to explain myself to him. Kyle opened my door and went in my room through my window! He set me down so gently it was hard to tell if I was still in his arms. The little moonlight that came in my window soon turned into darkness. It was as if I was blind. Shadows moved all around me, dancing like flames.

Then, I had a flash back. 'Pace was holding me in his arms. Just as he was leaning towards my throat, Kyle was there. I didn't quite understand what he said to Pace. Seeing there was no way to kill me the way he intended, he bit my arm. Kyle ran toward him with superhuman speed, but Pace was already mist in the air. Kyle started to chase him but he was gone. I looked at my arm and it was bleeding. There was blood everywhere. I could hear myself screaming. Kyle took me in his arms and raced me to his house. The trees were all a blur.

Once inside Kyle's house, he got Dr. Julian. He looked at my arm and looked away. He whispered something into Kyle's ear and he left. When Kyle returned, he had a bag with him. Dr. Julian took something out and started helping me.

For once, the rain wasn't pounding at my window when I woke up. That didn't necessarily mean there was no rain, just not that much. I could hear the gutter. Drip, drip, drip. That noise always drives me insane. Lucky for me, today was Saturday. Not so lucky for me, it was the day of Adam's party and a vampire had just bit me.

When turned to get out of bed, I nearly fell off. Leah was sitting next to where I had been laying. She was in her pajamas. So I wasn't dreaming the whole time, I thought to myself. At least my arm stopped burning. “Leah, what are you doing here?” I tried not to sound rude.

“Kyle and I wanted to make sure your safe. After last night we though Pace might try to come back. Kyle's left to go home and get changed.”

“What is my dad going to think when he sees you!?”

“Jason already came in. You were sleeping. When he saw me he must've thought it was a sleep over because he left smiling.”

I hoped out of bed to get ready for the party, forgetting about last nights events. I had decided to go with holister for the party. When I was finished dressing, I ran downstairs to get some breakfast. Leah followed close behind. We both decided on French toast. Jason just watched us, still smiling. He left to watch T.V. Yum, the hot bread topped with cinnamon tasted so good in my dry mouth. I was used to eating cereal so it tasted a little weird. I was still happy though that Jason had remembered I love French Toast.

Even though I was going to a party, it wasn't exactly the most exciting day for me after the following events had occurred.

1. I found out that Pace was a vampire

2. Pace bit my (JACK ***!)

3. Kyle and his family are vampires

4. I'm thinking about killing Jason for being a heavy sleeper

5. Before you pick at your gauze, see if it's stitched on

At first my car wouldn't start but just when I was about to give up, it gave in. Triumph spilled all over me! It wasn't exactly cold outside but it also wasn't exactly warm. My car had little space and it only took a few minutes to heat up. Leah told me that her and the rest of he family were still going to the woods, but would keep a close eye out. Adams house wasn't as hard to find as I thought it would be. His house was extremely big. You couldn't really miss it. When I arrived there I discovered I was the first. I wondered if I was early. I glanced at my radio that read two thirty.

Where is everyone else? The party had started a half hour ago. Adam had called me yesterday with his address. This was the time given to be here and yet I saw no one else. No sign of a party was in sight. Doubt was near. He couldn't even plan a super sweet party. Now there is a surprise for you. Mabey the party's in the back. I know a lot of people who prefer outdoor party's. What if the party was canceled? I would be so embarrassed. Adam would have called me if it was canceled. Worry was not needed.

As I drove to the back I saw two people. At first they were just shadows. Ashley and Samantha were my best guess. I drove closer only to bolt straight to a stop. Trying as fast as I could, I tried to reverse my car so I could get away. Pace was just too fast for me. It was too late. Both evil sadistic minded vampires were standing at my window. Reluctantly, I got out of the Civic. Even though I should be more worried about me than my car, I wasn't. My car could be replaced, I had already basically died though. What was the point? Was there any other damage that could possibly be done to me? It was a theatrical question. I already knew the answer to that. “Hello Mia, how's your arm?” Pace practically fell over laughing. A huge grin had already crossed his face.

“Go to heck Pace and this time, please stay there.” I wanted to strangle him so badly. If he wasn't already dead, I would have killed him. His eyes glistened with hatred. This joke must be getting a bit old for him. Why did I have to dump him? This would have never happened!!!! Dumping him was the second best thing I had ever done though. I managed a little smile.

“I can see your attitude still needs improvement. Don't you like the gift I gave you? The gift of immortality, strength, power, beauty, and love?” He was still smiling even though it didn't make it to his eyes. I was used to seeing this expression. Riley just kept standing at my side, motionless.

“Nothing has happened to me except for my arm hurting you jerk!”

“For now. Soon you'll see. When the Crescent Moon rises at mid-night five months from now. You'll see.” His voice just kept getting darker and darker. I ignored him. Or at least tired. I was never good at this.

“What did you do to Riley?” I asked looking over at her. She still didn't move. Riley wasn't breathing either. She didn't have to.

“She came to kill me after smelling my scent in the woods, but I caught her off guard and made her stay for the show. It wouldn't be likely that she'd what to miss this. The rest of her family didn't notice when she came, they thought she was just hunting something alone” The grin left and then returned. “Like me, each of the Taylors have another ability besides speed and strength. He paused.

“So, your point?” He was really starting to tick me off.

“Riley can absorb any power that she comes in contact with.” He acted as if he was annoyed. Shoot! I threatened her and she can kick... Pace cut me off again.

“You have so much to learn in five months.”

“Why are you trying (and almost succeeding) to kill me!?!?!?!?!?”

“You can't kill someone when their already condemned. Oh, and Mabey I want you dead because you humiliated me in front of the whole school when you broke up with me!” Now Pace was trembling. His fists clenched tightly together.

“Pace, calm down” I really didn't want to know if he could hurt me more than he already had. He must have taken what I said as a insult because he started walking towards me. I wanted to run but my legs wouldn't respond.

“Why can't I move?” I thought out loud. Great! Now I can't even think my own thoughts inside my head without someone else hearing them.

“Like I told you before. I can order people around. It's called manipulation.” His body almost flung backwards.

“Stop acting like a psycho! If your going to hurt me then just hurt me already!” I wasn't in the mood for games. Why wouldn't he just finish me off? He got up and ran towards Riley. Ok, that was weird. I had never seen him this angry before. His face was literally steaming red, and his eyes were blacker than the darkest ocean. The skin he wore no longer seemed to be his.

You know the expression 'The grass is greener on the other side'? Well, in this case it's not. In fact, there's nothing green about him. Pace's whole world must be filled with an utter darkness. A world where I had no choice but to soon enter. Would I have to go through this alone? No, I wouldn't let myself. I had been standing in the dark long enough. Who was Pace to come into my home and take away my life. Everything that happened next happened all at once. Something that I didn't notice at first. Pace wasn't running at Riley, he was running at me. Pain completely swept over me. I was screaming so loud, I pierced my own ears.

My gauze wasn't stitched around my arm. I was bleeding so badly, I thought I was going to die. But it wasn't the stitches being torn out that made me bleed so badly. I was dizzy, but my eyes soon focused. Pace's teeth had sunken into my arm... again. I tried to pull away. He was just too strong though. I looked over to where Riley had been and saw that she was no longer there. She had left me here to die. Even though Riley hated me and wanted me dead. I would have thought that she rather kill me herself. Tear me limb from limb. Kill me until she couldn't possibly kill me anymore, and then she would laugh one of those angelic laughs.

I kept praying and praying that Pace would stop. I really didn't think he was going to, but he did. Evan as he did, Pace kept his grip on me. I yelled at him to let go, but that just made him smile a disgusting smile. So, I did what any other woman with a guy holding her (un-welcomed) would do. I instinctively slapped him with all my force. The slap must have been hard because it worked. Pace staggered back in pain. “You slapped me you incoherent girl!” The smile disappeared and that brought a smile even wider to my face.

Instead of saying anything back I ran. I ran as fast as my legs would take me. When I got to where my car would have been, it was gone. Great! Riley saved my car but wouldn't save me. She was just such a loving person. She would definitely do great things.

I ignored the fact that my car was gone and once again ran. The trees were all flying by. Nothing and no one could stop me. Nobody would get into my way. It was if I were on a military jet plane, going six hundred miles a second. We all no that is impossible but 'Don't Dare to Imagine' has never made a toll here. I felt so free. My skin was getting colder and colder but I never stopped. When I got home I was stunned to see my Honda Civic in the drive way. At least Riley had half a heart. That is, if she even has one. Or Mabey it was just a huge black hole that never ended. This girl was just too kind.

After I went inside my house there was no Jason. I guess he went to work again. If I were in charge of everyone, I'd give him the most loyal worker ever award. For the dad prize, that one would go to Ethan. My arm was still bleeding terribly and there was NO chance the Civic was going to have millions of little blood stains. I could picture Jason coming to check my car and seeing the blood. The house would be under total lock- down.

After deciding to walk to the hospital, I was pretty fast. The hospital was much further than I guessed. When I got inside the front desk immediately took me to a room. Guess who my doctor was. Just guess. “Mia, my name is Dr. Julian. Are you Ok? Can you speak?”

“Yeah, p p p.. Pace. He he he he b b b b bit ma ma me a g g a i n n.” Was all I could manage to say. My voice wasn't even loud enough for me to hear but Dr. Julian understood every word.

“Pace is gone for now, save your strength. Looks like you lost a lot of blood. He was so sincere. How could he be so close to me with blood everywhere? I didn't have the strength to talk, so I let myself fall into a deep sleep. Considering the fact I was given a shot (and I'm deathly afraid of needles) I fainted. Thank god for that.

This dream was different than my others. Riley wasn't trying to kill me, yet. Pace wasn't there at all. There was a huge Crescent Moon rising. It was shinning so brightly on me. Micheal, John, Riley, Leah and Mr. and Mrs. Taylor were all standing behind us. Kyle was at my side, now whispering something into my ear. He was telling me that I had a choice. I could choose Life, or Death. He looked at me as if he may never see me again. Of course I had no idea what he meant though. I could choose Life or Death? Pace bit me, I was already dead, but still alive. Pace had chosen for me.

The new bandaging around my arm proved that! Everyone's eyes were now on me. I hated so much to be the center of attention at a time like this! Riley started to walk towards me. It looked as if she was happy. Her eyes were black, just like Pace's. With every step she took, my heart started to beat faster. My adrenaline was starting to spread through my body and kick in. It was as if this was a repeat of what happened with Pace. I couldn't move or run or anything! The helpless feeling hurt more than anything else. Feeling hopeless was so common for me now. At least I knew what to expect.

When I looked at the moon I saw it's only reflection on me. “My choice is...” I woke up screaming. Nothing seemed to be one. Everything had doubles to it and all voices were repeating. The atmosphere around me wasn't very peaceful. Dr. Julian was rushing over to me trying to calm me down. Apparently he didn't see what the problem was until I pointed to my arm. He took out his cell phone and made a call in such a low voice it was impossible to hear.

My heart rate rose higher and higher with every breathe I took. I couldn't breathe right though. My lungs felt like they were on fire and the fire couldn't be put out. Each time I inhaled, my whole body hurt. After each exhale it seemed as if I was loosing more of my life. My soul seemed to be slipping away into purgatory. Trust me, it hurt so bad it felt like someone was thrusting a knife into my back twenty four times, repeat Halloween Movie.

I tried to concentrate on breathing correctly. Hyperventilating hurt too much. My arm started to burn like crazy and bled, again. After about an hour, It stopped. Being brave wasn't exactly my profession but I had to know. The screaming started once more. Just on cue, Kyle and John came in with a bag. They could have fooled anyone but not me. That bag was filled with heavy things and I could tell when it was actually opened. There were needles and bottles of medication. John took a bottle out and filled a needle with it. He came over to me and I backed away. Like I said before, I'm deathly afraid of needles. He looked at me as if I was insane but continued. The needle was in me before I could say or do anything. After all, he did was an advantage.

Outside was a Crescent Moon. Not a complete one but half. Pace must have been referring to this pain as my so called 'Gift' part of his fabulous gift. As strange as this sounds. Riley and Pace would be perfect for each other. The things they have in common? You may ask.

1. Vampire boy plus vampire girl equals lover

2. Riley is beautiful and so Is Pace.

3. They have the same hair color.

4. Both have super speed and strength.

5. Their one and only true mood is 'Ticked All The Friggin Way Off'.

6. A specialty of them both is murder.

7. They both are sadistic freaky and angry.

8. Neither of them even like me

9. My car is hot and they know it.

10. Anger management Is needed.

My sight came back slowly. Kyle standing over the bed I lay in had me feeling a bit better. Could this last forever? He looked at me with a grim stare. The expression on his face truly frightened me. Did he know what was going on with me? Was there something he refused to say? I had much to much questions. Leah, Micheal, John and Riley were standing in the corner. It's really surprising to see Riley came. She had made it quite clear that it didn't matter if I die or not.

“Wow, Pace got you bad” Micheal said as he somewhat smiled.

“Micheal!” Leah warned.

He backed down. They did love each other. I wondered how long they had been together.

“Hey, your survived! That's hard for most people bitten to do.” John eventually spoke. That's a start. He had puppy dog eyes. Though he did, his eyes seemed to be a bit red on the top.

“Mabey you should go John. It's for the best that your not here.” Riley stepped forward to John. “You need to go to the forest, I'll go with you” She started to take his hands.

“What's wrong with him?” I asked. My voice now louder than before.

“John? He hasn't ate in awhile and being around you makes it harder for him to resist.” He looked like he too, was burning inside. His eyes were still a chocolate brown, they stayed that way.

“When you say he hasn't ate and he needs to go to the forest, you mean” My voice trailed off. Everything that happened this week still hadn't sunk in my head. There's just so much going on.

“Yes.” Kyle sounded like he's in a soap opera, just better. “You bled a lot and the scent is still strong.” It was like I'm never going to get out of bed. How could they all look at me like some frail raccoon. HELLO! I'm still alive! Pace only bit my arm, not my neck! I wasn't run over by some big monster truck! I tried to sit up and lost my balance. Of course Kyle caught me and picked me up again. It was nice to know that someone's always going to be there. As I started to walk to a chair, Micheal and Leah left. Neither seemed nearly as depressed as Kyle. They walked out so quickly but so swiftly.

Once I sat down, I had to ask. “Did someone die? Did I miss something? Everyone is staring at me like I”m not even here! Please tell me what's going on Kyle.” My voice had dropped down low.

“When Pace bit you, did he tell you anything?”

“No. Well, yes. A little.” I hesitated but then continued. “He said I wasn't dead but I wasn't alive. I was going to be dead though soon. Then he talked about a Crescent Moon rising in five months and that I would be a new person.” He just stood there, motionless. Almost like how Riley had stood earlier.

“Are you just going to stand there? Can you at least say one word.”

He finally spoke. “Mia, you should have never come here. I don't...” “Do you know what he did to you?”

“Yes, he bit me on my arm, and then he bit me again. Now my arm really hurts. And you said something about me turning.”

“When he bit you, the transformation begun. The second time he bit you, it started to go faster.” Kyle's face was getting blacker and blacker with every word he said. “During the transformation you start to have certain dreams. Then you start acting more violent. You senses develop at a painful rate. After that, the thirst begins. And at Crescent Moon, when the moon is all the way in the sky and it's shinning on you at midnight, the change is complete.”

It took a moment for me to realize there was no way out of this. No matter what, I was going to become a vampire. The change was irreversible. What was I going to tell Jason and Sarah? 'Oh mom and dad, I'll be fine. I'm only turning into a vampire in five months. Don't forget I'm going to be sucking the blood of innocent people. ' That would definitely not cut it for them. “So that's it!?” My voice came out sharper than I intended it to. “I just wait around until I change and then I start taking the blood of the innocent!??!”

“I'm sorry Mia. You already know this can't be changed, but you don't have to kill people. Like my family, you can feed off the animals. I understand what your going through!” His sudden rage surprised me.”

“Just tell me one thing.” Kyle looked up at me. “When I get mad at someone, will I attack them? Will my eyes also go black?”

It was a moment before he answered. “Yes”

Factions:

So many things were on my mind Monday morning. There was the Winter Galla tonight, explaining to Adam and everyone why I wasn't at Adam's house, not getting mad at people, and trying desperately not to fall in love with Kyle. Too bad for me, I already had. Living even a minute without him burned my soul and heart. I should have known this would happen sooner or later. Great, I'm in love with a guy who doesn't exactly exist.

I arrived at school just as Kyle entered the parking lot. Apparently he had left later than the rest of his family seeing their car was already here. As Kyle got out of his car I couldn't help but stare at him in 'aw'. The way the sun hit his perfect eyes. How his skin looked more normal than pale. And that dreamy smile. Kyle walked up to me, his eyes filled with laugher but sorrow. Mabey I was in heaven but it couldn't be. This was even better.

Starring back into Kyle's sparkling eyes became mistakable. Soon enough, I got drawn into a trance. I wanted to look away but something stopped me. After what seemed days but only minutes he let me go. Kyle then spoke in such a angelic voice, it sounded like angels singing. “How are you feeling Mia?” His eyes lowered to my arm. Kyle's gaze of worry almost made me cry.

“I'm fine” I lied, “Thanks for asking”. My arm actually still stung, though the burning sensation faded away. The medication I got from Dr. Julian really helped.

This time when I looked up, Kyle's glance didn't meet mine. His eyes wondered away, resentful. Instead of sky blue, black replaced them. I stared down at my feet, a little surprised. “Sorry” They changed back. “I just don't want you to go through this pain and much more. You deserve better.” Kyle's voice saddened.

I didn't want to discuss anything referring to Pace so I quickly changed the subject. “Leah helped me pick out a great dress for the Winter Galls tonight last week.” Talking about “Girl Stuff” wasn't the best thing to talk about but my mind was blank. We started walking to class as Kyle spoke.

“Yeah, she told me it was a bunch of fun. Leah was up half the night telling Riley and John, poor guy. Her didn't seem to mind though, he loves her so much” His voice trailed off. Now Kyle's voice became cold. His moods always changed too fast. Understanding Kyle would never be a priority of mine because it couldn't happen. The subject was simply impossible.

“Are you mad Kyle?” I asked. Then I started in a whisper realizing we were walking in the hall with many people around us. “First you eyes go black and now your angry with me. Oh, and I don't even know if were going to the dance.” How could Kyle be so mad but still beautiful at the same time.

Kyle looked at me once more. “No, I'm not mad at you. I feel like tearing that guy to pieces and I would have if he hadn't left so quickly. And you got bit by a vampire yet all you can think about is the Winter Galls?”

My eyes went wide and my mouth dropped. He did not just insult the dance!!!!! “Kyle!” I scream while still whispering. “I's not that I'm not worried about Pace bitting me, but the Galla sound like fun. Why not enjoy what you have while you still have it?” I paused. “How many school dances have you been to Kyle?” There was earnest in my voice.

Kyle didn't answer at first. The first bell rang and he started speaking at a rapid phase. “Mia, you need to be careful. You shouldn't even be at school until it gets better. If it does. At any moment you could get thirsty and kill someone without even realizing it. The smell is seductive and irresistible.” Oh no! Not the puppy dog look! “Please let me drive you home. Just tell Jason you got sick or something.”

“How long exactly? What if I never get better?” Jason wouldn't let me stay home forever. If I all of a sudden came down with Cancer or Aids, but not with just a flu. I wasn't going to spend my day locked away at home. “If you can be here and resist, why can't I?”

Kyle seemed to be getting annoyed. “I have been a vampire for a very long time Mia. You were just bitten. I've had more practice resisting it.” He started walking towards the parking lot, gesturing for me to follow. I stood there. “The smell, the lust, please.”

“I can't fun forever Kyle. Why not face what I'm becoming now?” The last bell rang. “Sorry, I have to go to class. Were I need to stay.” Before Kyle could say anything, I stepped in class. He couldn't force my against my will outside in front of everyone. Kyle, his family and I, he'd exploit us all.

I took my set next to Emma. Not a second after I sat down the questions came. My story was that Jason had grounded me and the arm was the cause of me falling down the stairs. Emma actually believed it and began telling Sam and Ash who were sitting next to her. When the teacher left his desk to do attendance, he called my name. “Mia Hayes, decided to show up have we?”

“Excuse me?” My feeling happy left and being stunned came. “I was talking to a friend. And it's really now of you business.” My voice's irritated.

“It's my business if your late to my class. That boy may be a distraction. You shouldn't be hanging out with him.”

I didn't believe it. Was this happening? This is my personal life, not his. Kyle, a distraction? When I spoke this time my voice was furious. “I hang out with who I hang out with! My choice! Not yours!” The rage that had built up in me was untenable. I'm going to kill my teacher and no one can help me nor him.

Jumping up, I walked over to the desk. I'm trying as hard as I can possibly not to kill this guy but yet he keeps egging me on. “Sit down Mia. Don't be so sensitive over your boyfriend” a class mate spoke. I turned to see it was Emily. Now this girl deserved to die. How many people do I have to kill?

The thought in my head scared me. I didn't want to kill these people (except for Emily) but the darker side of me did. The side of lust, that became very domenent. Adam came to stand by me. “Why doesn't everyone stop it. Emily, SHUT UP!” Her face went red. “Teach, take the rest of the attendance. And Mia, please calm down.” I hadn't realized my hands were balled into fists.

Adam was too late in grabbing me. I'd already made my choice as I looked into the four eyes of my prey. I ran at the teacher but someone pulled me back. It was Kyle! He must've gotten mad, left, and then come back knowing I would indeed do something stupid. Wait! Where was he a minute ago!?

“Mr. You better get out of my class before I call security!” Mr. Swanson's face turned a bright pink. Kyle might not wanna make him madder, he might faint. Pink teachers are always a bad sign, it not normal! Then again, what teacher is? They all think they know everything (excluding some) and some are perverts! My example? No other than Mr. Swanson himself.

“I'm sorry Mr. Swanson, I'm only trying to stop Mia from loosing her temper on you. I think you owe Ms. Hayes an .” Kyle spoke. I could hear the class laugh at his last remark.

“Last time I checked son, I'm the teacher”. Mr. Swanson's voice started to crack. He knew he's fighting a loosing battle.

“And last time I checked. You don't insult a student about their personal life and look up young girls skirts.” Everyone laughed with joy besides the girls with skirts on. Kyle was putting on a great show. I saw that I'm wearing a skirt and tried to pull in down further but it was a mini skirt. Jason never paid any attention to what I wore.

The teacher said nothing else and sat down in defeat. Kyle grabbed my hand and walked me out of the building. We didn't say anything until we got to the car. His car of course. “I tried to tell you Mia, you shouldn't let your temper take control like that. You almost killed your teacher, though I can't exactly blame you.” He hid a smile.

“I'm sorry Kyle. He was making me so mad and I couldn't stop myself. I almost exposed your family. I'm so sorry! For the first time I hugged him. Instead of pushing me away like I was expecting, he embraced me. Kyle took back to driving telling me that everything was alright and It wasn't my fault -yes it is-. “Where are we going?” I asked.

“To the beach” Kyle answered smiling. The beach? Ok, I think Kyle has officially gone crazy!

“Uhm, isn't it a little cold for swimming? Not that its not sunny.” I looked out the window shyly.

“We're not swimming in the water. I can take it but you'd freeze and then Jason would attempt murder. Only the beach sand is what I meant.” I looked into his eyes and instantly knew this is my romeo. He seemed to care so such for me and I for him. Mabey being a vampire can turn out Ok, as long as Kyle's by my side for eternity. “The weather should stay warm for quite awhile. Having Leah comes in handy when you want to know what's going to happen. Even though not everything is what it seems.” Leah must have premonitions.

By this time I can't help but to be curious. “Kyle” He looked over to me. I paused a minute before continuing. “Does your whole family have 'Special Powers'?” I sounded so silly.

Without looking away from the road he answered. “Yes” Wow, he really had the ultimate family. “Micheal is a technopath, he controls technology. John can manipulate the cold and ice. Leah has premonitions, seeing into the future. Riley has the best ability. It's called mimicry, it allows her to copy another's power and use it whenever she wants. It's quite amazing actually, but annoying. My dad has biological manipulation meaning he can control is you have a disease or broke a bone and so forth. My mom shape shifts.”

“Does Pace have any 'Special Powers'?” Was it just the Taylors. I thought about it more. I wondered how many more vampires there are out there. “I already knows he manipulates people. Is that all?”

When I looked over, Kyle was staring at the ocean coming to view. It took a minute for him to answer. “Riley, Leah and I believe it's sublimation. That's the only way he can possibly get around us so fast . When you see how fast we run.” His voice trailed off. I smiled to myself. What he said equaled a guarantee we'd see each other again outside of school.

As we arrived at the beach I knew things would never be the same again. At least not for me. The beach was covered with a rich feeling sand, sea shells covering every inch of space, and the sun fairly high in the sky. Leah predicted right. Sea waves crashed on and off the shore. It became soothing and immediately calmed me. When I looked back to Kyle there appeared to be something different about is appearance. A aspect I hadn't noticed before.

His skin glistened with every step he took away. He looked like a male model. The kind you only saw in 'Vogue'. Kyle's skin really did look normal in the sun. I'm so in love with this boy I can't stand it. The very sight of him takes my breath away.

“Are you planning on standing there all day or are you coming?” A mocking smile danced over his face. Kyle is the only person I know who can look dangerous and beautiful at the same time.

“I'm sorry if not everyone can be as fast as you, allow me to speed up.” I laughed and this time he joined in. I caught up to him in two seconds. He was right, my speed is developing. No pain has occurred yet though.

We must have walked for hours while talking about school, our lives, etc. because when I looked at my watch it was six thirty. I had only three hours to get ready for the Winter Galla. Guessing Kyle already knew, I said nothing. “We better hurry and get you home. Leah and Riley are literally dieing to help you get ready.” Riley wanted to help me get ready? I had to gasp. Kyle smiled that star dazzle smile and laughed a gentle laugh. “Yes, we were all surprised. Apparently Riley feels extremely bad about leaving you to die.” His tone became apologetic. “I'm sorry too. We should have known Pace would come back for you.”

He's not going to lean this all on himself and his family. “But it's not yourself. I need to pay more attention to the voices I hear on the phone.” I tried to crack a smile. Without another word Kyle picked me up, cradled me into his cold arms and ran back to his car. He st me in the passenger seat and ran around to his side door. “What about my car!?” I asked. My voice starting to get worried.

“Calm down Mia, Riley and Leah drove it back to your house.”

“Riley might have killed it!” I protested.

“Relax, didn't you hear me? Leah drove with her. Riley wouldn't try anything with Leah there. His shoulders relaxed. We drove back in silence. When we arrived Leah and Riley were practically jumping through the roof. “Well, you have a lot of..” He choose his words carefully not to upset us girls. “Fun to get to. Don't go overboard on her though.” He said to Leah. “And not too much of a dressy dress.” He addressed Riley.

“What's a dressy dress?” I asked when we got inside and Kyle left. “Is that even a word? Really, it doesn't sound like it. Just because we're girls doesn't mean we're over board.” We all laughed hysterically.

“Ok girls, lets get to work. We've got some major work to do. Mia has to look absolutely stunning, gorgeous, amazing, beautiful, and dazzle people as she walks by. Pretty soon, you'll look like a super model that's too good for the runways or magazine. Everyone will come to just see you.” Riley got carried away with her imagination.

“How about we go upstairs to get ready before the Galla starts. You know, today?” However instead of being as excited a Riley, I calmed down. The excitement poured over me.

“What are we waiting around for! Lets get Mia ready!” Leah shouted but at the same time whispered. All three of us ran up the stairs to my room. As I entered I almost fainted. My room had been transformed into a fluffy pink girly girl paradise get away. I saw a range of nail polish to lip gloss to hair things to makeup to clothes. I'd already picked out my dress for the Galla. Finally I remembered that Leah and Riley were also coming. I pondered the fact Micheal and John were most likely helping him get ready. I giggled at the thought. “Ok, take a shower first.”

“She'll take to long!” Riley complained.

“Otherwise, you can give me a shower.” I had no idea she actually thought I meant it but in only five seconds my hair was wet and smelled of strawberry's. Kyle had told me that it was his favorite scent. “Riley! I'm being sarcastic! I didn't want you to give me a shower.” Leah laughed to herself.

“Sorry Mia, I thought you were serious. Next time I'll let you give yourself a shower.” Again Leah started laughing. She had to cover her mouth with her hand to stop. “Ok, no more messing around. If we want her hair wavy we'll have to blow dry it with a curling brush.” Riley walked over to my dresser drawer and took a huge basket of hair things. While she worked on my hair Leah concentrated on my nails. She painted them pink but ended up giving me French nails -toe nails included-. Then Riley finished my hair and helped Leah with makeup. I came out with white eyeshadow, rosy cheeks, waterproof mascara and eyeliner, and pink lip gloss. Next came my dress. Getting it on might be a challenge without messing up my hair. They put on my corset first. After that they put on my full dress. It looked more beautiful than it had in the store. My dress has a diamond crystal at the tube top and four more where the bottom half -all ruffles- begins.

Next it was Riley's turn to get glamored up. She looked breath taking. Her brilliant red hair was straight and flawless parting at the left. The eye shadow was light green, red blush, and plum lip gloss. Neither needed mascara for their eye lashes proved better. Riley's dress is a v-neck low cute with side slits at the waist. Fine print lines consisted above and below the slits. The dress was black and hung loosely. She wore a single gold bracelet along with silver pumps.

Leah was the last to get ready. Her hair waved in long curls and she wore silver line diamond earrings. As for makeup Leah wears a glossy shade of eyeshadow, blush and lip gloss of course. Since the Taylors were unnaturally pale, the blush really helped. Leah also put on some eyeliner and accessories. Three band bracelets lay on the left hand and two sets of silver bangles on the other. Her dress is just... BEAUTIFUL! It is a strapless pink tube top with ruffles at the bottom. Beads covered a third portion under the tube top.

I can't believe I'm friends with such beautiful people. Well, mabey Riley's not my friend but she sure knows how to act like it. The plan was for everyone -Riley, Leah, Micheal, John, Emma, Sam, Noah, Adam, Ash, Kyle, James and I- to meet at my house. Get some photos and then go to the Winter Galla in a huge convertible limo. When Micheal, John and Kyle arrived, I wasn't surprised that they each looked god like. Riley ran up to Micheal and gave him a kiss then stood next to him holding hands, Leah too. I just overheard them filling the guys in on our fun. They roared with laughter. That must've been the part with the shower.

Jason had already gotten home so he ran to grab the camera. He took some individual pictures of us with our friends, dates, random , and then a group picture. This is all going on my walls and in my scrap book I'd bought last year. Good thing I always think “What If...”. We weren't even at the Galla yet and I was already having a great time. Each teenage boy huddled in a small group at the door to talk with each other. That surprised us all. How evenly they related. Us girls decided to huddle by the couch -even though I'm sure the Taylor boys can hear us- and we talked about our dates. Emma told us Noah planned to join the football team. Sam filled her in on everything Adam had told her. None of us thought Noah would make it. “Mabey track or la cross” I suggested. She looked as if she's thinking about it.

At last the time came to leave. The limo parked in front of the house became a photo shoot product. Jason took even more pictures. 'I'll be blind before I get the chance to leave' I thought to myself. We drove in anything but silence. The music was booming and every one got drunk. The police pulled us over and we got into an accident, everyone died except for those supernaturals who threw a party. Just kidding, but the noise of everybody talking became overwhelming.

“Hey luves and luvurs! Were here!”I shouted. About ten people came up to the limo thinking we were celebrities -ha-. As we came out, they didn't seem disappointed. You'd think we'd all get some bubble space. The outside of the school looked like the usual boring learning environment. Inside however, was where it really began. Every inch of wall space is covered in snow flakes and sparkles. Surprisingly enough, theres a glass chandelier reflecting a blue florescent light every where. Fake snow is on the ground and still falling from a generator in the ceiling. The refreshment table is in the corner. Blue punch, fake blue marble, red and blue blizzards/cones, and a huge nine layer cake, decorated for Christmas. A DJ stood in the other corner. There is a HUGMONGUS stereo system with surround sound playing slow songs, rap, hip-hop, pop, R&B, and Christmas songs. It's like a Cinderella story only it's mine.

Our group departed then, either going to the refreshment table, talking to friends, or dancing. “Some people wanna fill the world with silly love songs” He said talking to himself. I almost asked what he was talking about but then a ' Silly Love Song' started to play.

“What's wrong with that? I have to know” I asked. It's a silly question but honestly, it's mine. “If people didn't fill the world with what you call silly love songs, not many people would be together now. Would they?” I teased. I kept growing more and more confident with each second I spent with him.

His face had little emotion to show. “Love makes us act like we are fools. I Throw our lives away for one happy day?”

“True, but not always. Haven't you ever heard the phrase 'Love is a many splendid thing. Love lifts us up where we belong. All you need is love'?” I t was like I shouted 'I LOVE YOU!'. I hoped I'm not giving my feelings away.

“Yes. I've also heard the phrase 'Love is just a game.' Look at Riley and Micheal for instance.” I turned my head over to where their dancing. Nothing seemed like a game over there. Their just staring into each others eyes with such passion while dancing. “Both look in love, but what happens if for say.” He stopped to think. “What if” He's using my theory line. “Riley kills a human. Micheal would become furious. She knows that too. Their so called 'Love' can end in a matter of seconds. Some people spend their lives looking for love but they never find it.”

“That's because their not looking in the right place. Or at the right person. Your right at a certain matter though. But wouldn't you rather spend your whole life looking for love then to waste it moping around?”

“So your saying to grow old and alone?” Kyle looked at me strangely, like I'm a psycho who's escaped from a mental facility. “It'll will drive you mad”.

“No. Because love is worth waiting an eternity for. And once you find it, you can never let go. Or you will grow old and alone. If you never open your eyes to see love, then your truly missing out. The French are glad to die for love.” I looked up at him and he started to talk.

“And how exactly are you supposed to know when you find love?”

“When you look into someones eyes and it's like you've never seen the sky before. When your willing to die for love and they are to, you know you found what your looking for.” Silence prevailed and neither of us talked for awhile. “I'm sorry if I upset you”.

“You didn't upset me. You opened my eyes to something I wasn't seeing before. The fact that, I love you.” Shock spilled over me. I love him too but.... My thoughts trailed off into “La la Land”. A place in my head where nothing goes right and work shuts down. At that very moment, Kyle moved his face in front of mine. His minty breath upon me. And he did something I've been waiting so long for him to do. He kissed me. Not like one of those pecks or 'I love you only until I find another girl' kind of kisses. This one had more passion beyond all belief. I wish I could vanish inside his kiss.

Then, as soon as the kiss started, it stopped. Adam had gone up on the stage and called my name. Kyle gave me an encouraging shove. I slowly walked up to where Adam stood. “Now that your done having your fun” I blushed with embarrassment but no one saw. Thank you Leah for giving me this shade of blush. She smiled to herself, probably foreseeing that I would parade her in thank yous. “Could you sing us a song. Jason told us how wonderful of a singer you are.” It's true. I used to take singing lessons from the age of four to sixteen. People had told me I was great but I always had stage fright. “Come one Mia. Crowd, lets give her a little encouragement!” Everyone chanting me name helped but there was something else. A god like creature that stood not ten feet from where I stand.

“Ok fine” I gave in and started. My song was no other than... Come What May preformed in the Moulin Rouge.

Never knew I could feel like this
Like I've never seen the sky before
I want to vanish inside your kiss
Every day I Love You more and more

Listen to my heart, can you hear it sing
Telling me to give you everything
Seasons may change, winter to spring
But I Love You, until the end of time

Come what may I started walking around on the stage.
Come what may
I will Love You
Until my dying day

Suddenly the world seems such a perfect place I almost forgot to breathe.
Suddenly it moves with such a perfect grace
Suddenly my life doesn't seem such a waste
It all revolves around you

And there's no mountain too high
No river too wide
Sing out this song,
I'll be there by your side

Storm clouds may gather
And stars may collide
But I Love You, I Love You, This was definitely enjoying.
Until the end of time

Oh, come what may, come what may
I will Love You, until my dying day
Oh come what may, come what may
I will Love You, I will Love You Kyle, Kyle, Kyle

Suddenly the world seems such a perfect place

Come what may
Come what may
I will Love You
Until my dying day And I will, but my dieing day is closer.



The crowd cheered me on. I had missed this. Singing will always be something I love, but nothing compared to Kyle. Can I bring these two worlds together? As I walked off the stage a guy named Alexander walked on. The next performance had started. I walked over to Kyle's side and stood beside him. “I thought Adam's in charge of music?” I asked.

“He is, but let him sing. It's for a good reason.” Kyle wrapped an arm around my waist and held my hand in the other. Leah held Adam back as he tried to go up the stage. The look in her face made him immediately back down.

ROXANNE...You don't have to put on that red light
Walk the streets for money
You don't care if it's wrong of if it is right
ROXANNE...You don't have to wear that dress tonight
ROXANNE...You don't have to sell your body to the night

His eyes upon your face
His hand upon your hand
His lips caress your skin
IT'S MORE THAN I CAN STAND!

Why does my heart cry?
Feelings I cant fight!
Your free to leave me but
Just don't deceive me!
And please believe me when I say
I LOVE YOU!!!

s
Yo que te quiero tanto, que voy a hacer? ( And I who love you so much; what am I going to do? )
Me dejaste...me dejaste como una paloma ( You left me...you left me like a dove )
El alma se me fue; se me fue el corazon ( My soul has left me; my heart has left me )
Ya no tengo ganas de vivir porque no te puedo convencer
( I no longer wish to live because I cannot convince you )
Que no te vendas, Roxanne ( Not to sell yourself, Roxanne. )

Why does my heart cry?
ROXANNE!...You don't have to put on that red light
Feelings I can't hide!
ROXANNE!...You don't have to wear that dress tonight
Why does my heart cry?
ROXANNE!...You don't have to put on that red light
Feelings I can't fight!
ROXANNE!...You don't have to wear that dress tonight
ROXANNE!
ROXANNE!

Is it 'The Moulin Rouge' night or something? “Please forgive me Ashley. Outside the dawn is breaking. Inside my heart is breaking.” How corny that sounds. It must be a favorite quote. Wait a minute! That's also from the Moulin Rouge! FREAKY! Ashley gazed up at him like Kyle had looked at me when we talked about love. Then came fury.

“ALEXANDER! I'm not like that at all! How could you! I'm not going to forgive you! I'm going to kill you!” He ran off the stage and Ashley and James ran after him. After a minute Ashley came back. “James is going to handle it.” She was half crying. Sam went over to her and hugged her.

“Hon, it's Ok. Your not like that and it's not your fault Alexander is a jerk. I personally think he's talking about himself in that song.” Ash started laughing again. Once Sam gets someone laughing, their instantly cheered up.

“Oh My God. You knew he was going to do that and you let him anyway? A good cause? Kyle!”

“I'm sorry. When Leah first saw it, she did forgive me, then she changed her mind when she thought about James.” He frowned. “I loved your song though. You're an amazing singer. Now I really want to kill Pace for ruining your future.”

“Mabey death isn't so bad.” I tried.

“Yes Mia, it is. I've been through it. Deaths not that fun.” His face was serious but then he laughed. “Lets get back to dancing.” Kyle took my hand and lead. See, I told you. This is a day to remember. “I have an idea. Since this seems to be as you put it 'The Moulin Rouge Night' why don't you and your 'girlfriends' sing Lady Marmalade? I saw the movie when it came out and the song is preformed by a group? Correct?”

I smiled my best smile. “Yeah, thats a good idea. I'll go ask, stay there though.” I laughed and ran off. “Ash, Sam, Em, you wanna know what we should do?” I explained everything and luckily they had also seen the movie. We all agreed to what we'd dance like. Sam went over to Adam to ask if we could go on stage and he let us -only because he thought it was funny about the whole Moulin Rouge thing-. We ran up on the stage. “Hey everybody! Are you having a good night!?” They all yelled “YES!!!!” wow, this is easier than I thought. “Ok, we girls have a treat for you tonight! We're going to be singing 'Lady Marmalade' for the Moulin Rouge!”

Leah, Riley and I stood in front. Emma, Ash and Sam stood in back. The music blared and encouraging voices came to us. Men can be so helpful, I almost blushed. Dancing is also one of my talents, we all began.

Riley: Where's all my soul sisters? Let me hear ya flow sisters
Hey sister, go sister, soul sister, flow sister. Hey sister, go sister, soul sister, go sister Mia: He met Marmalade down in old Moulin Rouge
Strutting her stuff on the street. She said, 'Hello, hey Joe, You wanna give it a go?' Oh! All: Getcha getcha ya ya da da ( hey hey hey ) Getcha getcha ya ya here ( here oh ) Mocha chocolatta ya ya ( ooh yeah ) Mia: Creole lady Marmalade ( ohh)
All: Voulez-vous coucher avec moi, ce soir? ( oh oh ) Voulez-vous coucher avec moi? ( yeah yeah yeah yeah ) Ashley: He sat in her boudoir while she freshened up, boy drank all that magnolia wine
On her black satin sheets is where he started to freak, yeah
All: Getcha getcha ya ya da da ( da da yeah ) Getcha getcha ya ya here ( ooh yeah yeah ) Mocha chocolatta ya ya ( yeah, yeah )
Ashley: Creole Lady Marmalade, uh
All: Voulez-vous coucher avec moi, ce soir? ( ce soir ) Voulez-vous coucher avec moi? ( ooh ) Emma: Yeah, yeah, ah. They come through with the money and the garter belts
Let 'em know we 'bout that cake, straight out the gate. We independent women, some mistake us for whores
I'm saying, "Why spend mine when I can spend yours?"
Disagree? Well that's you and I'm sorry, I'm gonna keep playing these cats out like Atari
Wear high-heeled shoes, getting Love from the dudes, four bad-ass chicks from the Moulin Rouge All: Hey sisters, soul sisters, betta get that dough sisters
Riley: We drink wine with diamonds in the glass, by the case, the meaning of expensive taste
We wanna getcha getcha ya ya ( come on ) Mocha chocolatta ( what? ) Creole lady Marmalade
One more time, come on now All: Marmalade ( ooh ) Lady Marmalade ( ooh yeah ) Marmalade ( no ohh ) Leah: Hey, hey, hey! Touch of her skin feeling silky smooth, oh
Color of cafe au lait, alright. Made the savage beast inside roar until he cried All: Marmalade ( ooh ) Lady Marmalade ( ooh yeah ) Marmalade ( no ohh )

Leah More! All: More, more... Leah: More!

Ashley: Now he's back home doing nine to five
Leah: Nine to five!
Mia: Living a gray flannel life
Leah: But when he turns over to sleep, memories creep
All: More, more...
Leah: More!
All: Getcha getcha ya ya da da ( da da ) Getcha getcha ya ya here ( ohh ) Mocha chocolatta ya ya ( ooh )
Leah: Creole lady Marmalade
All: Voulez-vous coucher avec moi, ce soir? ( ce soir ) Voulez-vous coucher avec moi?
Mia: All my sisters, yeah
Leah: Voulez-vous coucher avec moi, ce soir? ( ce soir ) Voulez-vous coucher avec moi? ( ohh )
Emma: Come on, uh
Sam: Leah!
Leah: Oh Ladayeay - ohh!
Sam: Ashley!
Ashley: Lady Marmalade!
Sam: Riley! Emma!
Riley: Hey, hey, uh uh uh uh uh uh uh!
Sam: Mia!
Mia: Oh oh ohh!
Sam: Rockwilder baby!
Ashley: Lady!
Sam: Moulin Rouge!
Leah: Ah-ooh!
Sam: Misdemeanor here!
All: Creole lady Marmalade, ooh yes-ah!

I guess our fellow peers loved us because they acted like we gave them millions of dollars. Micheal John and Kyle were the loudest of them all. The principle came on and took the mike. “Thank you girls. Tonight has been wonderful with some beautiful performances and some not so beautiful ones.” He looked over to Alexander who now had black eyes. James met his gaze and held Sam close. “We hope to see you at the Junior Prom coming up at the end of the year! Good night guys and gals!” The vice principle grabbed the mike “And James, don't beat anyone else up. I'll see you tomorrow at school.”

“Only if it makes you happy.” He joked around. She started walking towards him and he ran back to the limo. “Sorry! No gray and old people allowed! You might cause a defect! But feel more than welcome to pay!”

As we entered the limo Kyle whispered something into my ear. “Lets go you two!” Riley instructed. “Leah and I have to get to sleep.” They shared a grin.

“You sleep?” I asked him.

“Yes, don't you?”

“Not in a coffin. None were in my size” He chuckled.

“We can sleep, only if we want to. Once in awhile we have to. And yes we sleep in beds as you saw the night of the incident.” That memory brought back shudders.

As we neared the house I became more sad. When we pulled up Kyle and the others got out. Sam, Ash, and Em rode in Noah's car with James and Adam. Leah and Riley are spending the night. Kyle walked me up to the door and gave me a long gentle kiss goodnight. Then he was gone. Riley no longer was bothered by our affection towards another. It must be because I'm one of them, almost. We went upstairs and got changed into our pajamas. “We have to go hunt again since our last trip got cute very short. It'll only take around two hours. Stay here, we'll bring you back something. Ok?” Leah smiled a reassuring smile and they flew -not literally- down the stairs.

I went to lay in bed but I got right back up. My arm started burning and the sensation started. The insides of my throat burned. I became thirsty. The war for blood had begun. When I jumped out of my window I ran faster and faster through the streets. Trying to deny my true self didn't work. A vampire is what I'm becoming. It's what I am.

Quickly spotting a group of girls from my school I ran faster. I wanted to stop myself and turn home but my legs wouldn't listen. Stopping in a sudden chance, I crouched low in the bushes. I recognized one of the girls, her name's Emily. The girl who teased me about Kyle this morning. My anger returned hitting me harder then before. As she walked away from the group to go home I followed. Right after she turned the corner I attacked. It's like watching a cat hunt the mouse. The cats ever so strong, especially when it's hungry. Poor little mouse is helpless, for it has no where to run and no where to hide. “Stop it you rapist!” This made me even more ticked off. Emily could see my face. I grabbed the back of her neck with one arm and her arms with my other. She couldn't get free, I'm to strong for her.

Pulling my face to her neck was painful. The aroma of her blood was overwhelming. Why did Emily's blood have to smell so good? It smelt like violets mixed with warm vanilla sugar. Like a enormous cake with all your favorite frostings. There are so many to choose from but you choose this one. You know it's going to taste the best, it's the healthiest. A smell such as this will drive any vampire mad. Her skin felt velvety smooth against my hands. Finally I placed my teeth on her neck. Debating about right and wrong in my head for a second. No effect occurred.

Letting my anger leach out, my teeth sunk into Emily's neck. If the smell was maddening, the taste is insane. The warm liquid flowed off her neck down her throat. It spilled onto her dazzling dress and carried onto the ground. She tried screaming but that just made the pain worse. I dug harder every time. Emily quickly learned and gave up. After a minute or two she fell to the ground limp. Pulling away in sudden disgust with myself I checked her pulse. It continued to beat, but just barely. The bit marks on her neck almost instantly faded. An amazing effect, no one will ever know. I picked Emily up in my arms and raced her to the hospital.

Dr. Julian had gone with the others to hunt so I didn't have to worry of him getting suspicious. Right when I got into the emergency room, a doctor asked me what happened. “She fell down a few steps and glass hit her. She's lucky it didn't go in but she's still pretty hurt.” I lied. Emily even has the bruise marks to prove it. My hands were wrapped so tightly it left bruises.

Part of me wanted to stay, but when they gave her blood transfusions I wanted to commit suicide. She smelt completely wrong! Nothing like the sweet nectar I'd smelled before. The sweet taste in my mouth still hung strong. I lost rack of time because when I came back in through my window, Leah and Riley were waiting.

“Where were you?” They asked at the same exact time. Leah looked straight at the wall. It was the same expression as before in the car. I saw her pull back in astonishment. “Mia, you didn't. Please tell me it's not true.” If Leah can only see the future, she must be seeing me telling someone what I did. I said nothing and looked away to the same place on the wall. “Why didn't you tell us?” Riley stood there like usual, saying nothing. I guess she already knew this would happen.

“It didn't start until you left. I couldn't stop myself. Like Kyle said, the scent is seductive.” How I felt turned horrible, Emily's blood in my mouth now tasted like guilt.

Riley came over to stand by me and sat me in her lap. The look in her eyes looked like comfort. “It's Ok Mia, I've been where you are too.”

“You have?” I knew she had, they all had.

“Yes”

“What happened?”

“Almost eighty five years ago. It was my wedding day and every thing had to be perfect. My husband and I truly loved each other. All my friends stayed loyal to me no matter what came our way. My family was rich and I found out I was two months pregnant. Sounds like a fairy tale right?” She pushed that aside. “In my dressing room the day of the wedding, my bridesmaids left to take their place. Just as I stood up, some one came and grabbed me. He looked like a giant teddy bear. This very strange enchanted boy a little shy of eye stood there, and then he bit me, I didn't actually feel much pain.

As he pulled away in horror, I just looked at him. He didn't want to take my blood, he had told me. My smell just became too over powering. I forgave him and he took me to Julian. Though Julian is my biological father, I'd been put up for adoption. My family didn't want me to be around vampires.”

“But weren't you one?”

“Yes, but I was born human. No on knew how. Kyle and Leah were born vampires. It never made any sense. That may be why it didn't hurt. I already had a little vampire blood in me. Micheal and John are biological brother to, adopted by my dad and mom. They weren't born vampires though. But that's another story” wow.

“Knowing I would never be able to go back to my old life, I cried. I tried desperately to make it work.” I thought I saw a tear in her eye but it stooped instantly. She continued. “He committed suicide when I told him what I was. After two years I came to grow and love Micheal. He taught me everything I know. There's not a day that goes by that I don't love him for turning me, even if it was by fault.”

“Do you ever think about what things would have been like if you stayed human and Micheal didn't find you?” There I go again with the 'What If'.

“Sometimes. I suppose I'd be dead by now unless Kyle or Leah had decided to turn me themselves. Having my baby had been a dream of mine. When your turned while pregnant, the baby dies. No one knows how or when a vampire gets pregnant. It's a very difficult thing to do. Julian and Faith still don't know how it happened.” She looked saddened.

“I'm sorry Riley.”

“That's why I don't want any human girl to do that to Kyle. It'd just break his heart. Taking her life be accident if it happened. A human is so fragile, and so easy to break. Your a vamp now like us, almost a vamp anyway. Growing stronger and stronger by the minute. Killing comes naturally and you may not be able to stop killing humans, but the feeling will fade when you turn to animals. When you have a better hold on yourself.”

“Thanks Riley. I don't blame you for wanting me to stay away from Kyle. If you don't mind me asking, why don't you talk to humans?”

“Oh” She laughed quietly. “Like I said, their so fragile. If one of us lost our temper like you did in the class today, we can easily expose our selves without meaning to. Taking percussions is very hard but we have to.”

“It's harder then it looks. Trust me on that one. I'm so used to talking a lot but as you grow older in the mind so to say, you are granted patience. You'll be able to stare off into space of focus you attention on something that doesn't matter and it won't effect you.” Leah added.

How nice it is to know Leah and Riley will be supporting me during the transformation. “What happens at full moon? I'd been told I have a choice. Life or Death?”

“Kyle doesn't want us to tell you. He will when the time is right, right now it's getting late, we need to sleep.” Riley lifted me off her lap and set me on the side of the bed. Leah and her got on -they traded my old bed for a queen sized one- and went to sleep.

I woke in the morning to the smell of blueberry pancakes. I trudged down the stairs to find Leah and Riley making them. “You can bake?” I said in surprise.

“Yes, our great sense of smell helps. Were after all, still a bit human. Jason walked down the stairs. He must have took the day off. We still have school, but not for one and a half hours. Then I saw it's only seven and school doesn't start until eight. Jason did still have to go to work and by how he's dressed, he's on his way out.

“Sorry girls, duty calls.” He called back as he walked out the door.

“Work first, like always.” I said to myself. They tried to act like they didn't hear that. “So” I said, setting the table. “Any special reason why your making pancakes?”

“Nope, just felt like it. Cooking can be really fun.”

We ate the rest of our breakfast in silence. I ran to my room and got changed. Riley and Leah followed. Glancing at the clock I saw it's time for my to head out. “Oh no you don't” Riley said grabbing my arm. “After last nights accident, do you really think were going to let you go to school? Emily will be back. Not a good idea, your coming with us.”

“If I don't go everyone's going to think I attacked Emily and couldn't show up because of it.” I argued.

“No one will think it was you. When you bit a human, they'll forget everything that happened. It's like whipping their memory clean. As far as the school knows, your sick.”

“Jason knows i'm not. He might get a panic attack.”

“We know you don't wanna leave but it's for the best. And if you think you can convince us otherwise, your wrong. Write Jason a note explaining that your just gonna go and see your mom because you miss her.”

“I've only been here for a month! He wouldn't believe that” I tried to convince myself more then them. “Fine” I mumbled. “Where to?”

“Some place no one would ever think to look” Leah winked. “Since we can't leave you alone, Riley's going to go get our family and meet us back here. I'm staying with you.”

“Bye Mia, see you soon. Thanks for having us over. It was nice to talk to someone about my history.” She smiled a beautiful smile and left.

We didn't do much in the next ten minutes. Leah sat in my living room chair and stared at the wall. How easily it is for her to ignore the outside world like that. I kept pacing back and fourth, wondering why Riley took so long. They had probably been sleeping or busy.

I went to the kitchen to get some milk when I noticed an open window. Walking up to close it, I felt a breeze come in. Then the wind some how materialized and Pace was there. Four other faces I didn't know came too. Leah came to my side at once, she hissed a sound so horrible, my ears rang and rang. “She is mine” Pace said to Leah.

“She is no ones” Leah replied.

“Another hero, another mindless crime. Give her up. I created her, Mia's in my care now.” A mocking smile played over Pace's face.

“Your care? What care is that? Bit and tell?”

“Oh no, you all love her, don't you? Meet a human who turns out to be a vampre and welcome her? We're demons of the underworld, we can't afford to love.”

“Kyle is going to kick your sorry pathetic butt when he gets here. And I kick your buddies.” When Leah finished her sentence, she gracefully hopped around the room attacking. Trying to help, I too attacked. He turned to me and hit me with one blow, flinging me across the room. A pain in my arms and legs came. The screaming started. Desperately struggling to get back up, he hit me again, this time in my chest. The cracking noise made me sick. Pace ran up to me as a chance came. My world turned upside down. Every aspect of faith disappeared. My whole body turned into jello.

Leah tried to reach us but Pace already had me in his arms as he turned us to mist. “No Pace! You can't do this!” I struggled to speak. Nothing worked, my physical pain is enough. My whole body went numb, I no longer felt any pain. The transformation into this substance had hurt me more. When I attempted to see my wounds, there's nothing but a thick fog, barely noticeable. 'Pace really needs to take up some kind of sport, like yoga.

The transformation back didn't feel so weird. Almost giving in, I about threw up. Inside Pace's house -I guessed- didn't seem like much. A red sofa placed in the corner and a small table stand holding a lamp next to it. Every wall painting ceased light and turned to dark. Never had I known vampires can be so depressing, compared to the Taylors. At the thought of the name brought Kyle back into my head. I dropped to the ground and cried. Pace came over and put his arm around me, I tried to shack it off. “Why are you doing this? Putting yourself through all this heart break.”

I turned to look at him and my stare blazed. “Because I love him! You'll never know what love is! You don't know how to love any thing but you! Let me go!”

“Do you think I'm such a horrible person that I don't know what love is?” His face looked puzzled. “I loved you the first time I laid my eyes on you. Now look me in the eyes and tell me that you honestly never loved me back. Tell me that I never loved you.”

I said nothing. He had always loved me, sticking up for me, helping me through injury's, even girl shopping with me. I too had loved him. A love lifted and no longer in tact. “What happened to 'I don't love you anymore Mia, and I never will'?”

“That?” Now the puzzled look turned to hurt. “I never meant it. Just something to say at the moment. Now look, your here with me and my gang” He smiled. “How rude of my not to introduce you. I'm ashamed.” Four guys walked over to us. “That's Daniel” Pace said pointing to a bulky, blue eyed guy. Tattoos covered both of his arms, all resembled death. Daniel had a blood thirsty look in his eyes that made me step back. “Next to Daniel is Christopher, you can call him Chris.”

It's the one who punched me. He smiled my way and I returned a monstrous look. Christopher has ear length black hair and brown eyes, with mussels the size of a house. “Then Logan and Caleb.” Pointing to the two in the corner. They must be twins, same blonde spiky hair and hazel nut eyes. Punk kind of.. men? “Their the oldest.” Pace added.

“Honestly, I don't care. Let me go and mabey they'll get a goodbye. Don't expect me to return the love.”

Chris and Daniel left the room. Pace walked up to me and whisper into my ear, “When their through with you, you will talk.” got up and left.

Logan is the first to speak. “Do you mind if we break the rules? It's no fun to play fair.”

“And that's supposed to mean what? Let me guess. Both of you are mindless fools searching for a mental girl to hook up with. Yes, she'd have to be mental if she likes you.” Caleb doesn't seem so bad, but he's no Pace's side.

“No. It means we're going to beat the crap out of you in matters not allowed in our coven.” I went up to Logan and kicked him in the balls. Vampire or not, every man has a weakness. Caleb stood by my side and watched as Logan got up and hit me a million times in the stomach and leg. Each kick brought me closer and closer to death. Can purgatory hold any surprises?

Pain stopped in my body and a new person took control. My eyes burned red and my skin became an unnatural shade of pale. I got up and saw my blood everywhere. Red stained the carpet and wall. Logan looked at me with such horror. Caleb stepped back to his original position in the corner. “Leave her alone. She's just getting used to this, and already is in pain.”

“The sooner she finds out, the better.”

Logan lunged himself at me and fell back in pain. I saw in his eyes his past. All the innocent people he killed. Their pain became my pain. He struggled on the floor, his legs cringing against the ground. Caleb went to my side and grabbed my hands turning me to face him. His eyes were black.

“Stop it”

“Stop what?” My voice sounded dark and unfamiliar.

“Quit torchering him. Stop wondering into his mind, the pain you feel is inflicting on him, mental pain. If you hold on much longer he'll die.”

“I don't care. He wants me dead and I'm not taking my chances.” My gaze on Logan didn't move.

Logan kept hitting the ground. His screams pierced my ears. Tears fell from my eyes, only their black. Crying black tears, does this happen to normal vampires?

“Let Go!”

My tears continued to fall, making a puddle on the floor.

Something hit me in the head, making me hit the floor boards. Finally the darkness stopped. A new feeling replaced it, pain came back to me. This time at a unstable rate. Shuddering on the floor, Caleb picked me up. Logan made no attempt to help me he went to sit down in a chair.

Still quivering as Caleb set me down, my mind went blank. There's nothing I can think of. It's like I'm in pre school again, not knowing or saying anything.

“Mia” A familiar voice came.

“Can you hear me?” Another sounded. The voice is worried and scared.

I mouthed the words yes, not being able to talk yet.

“You went into Logan's mind and toyed with it. I had to stop you, you almost killed him, so I hit you on the back of the head. Mind control is a very unattainable power to have. So many have died from it's after effect. It's lucky you lived through it, Logan lived through it.”

Now being able to see, I sat up. Caleb, Pace and Logan stood at my side. “What after effect? What are you talking about?”

“After you use your ability like that, it tends to hurt. Bodies can't handle radiation like that, not when their still getting use to the transformation.”

“Please take me back” I begged. Now I sat up staring at Pace. “I don't belong here and if I can't be with Kyle, I”ll surly die.”

“No you won't.”

“I can commit suicide. Even as a vampire, I can still die. Logan probably won't mind tearing me to pieces. Or mabey I'll torture him again, that'll kill me.”

Pace took me in his arms. “No, I let you get away once because of my problem. It's not going to happen again.”

“I will love Kyle, until my dieing day, and no one else.”

“These are feeling I can't fight Pace. I need to leave before things get out of hand. We should be back by dawn.” Caleb and Logan left.

After Effect:

I woke at dawning hour, the little light left cracked through a single window. This room is unfamiliar to me, surly not my room, the decor is so amazing it looks like it belongs to an Egyptian goddess. Everything looks like gold in a way, but I have to be dreaming. Or I can be in heaven, but Kyle's not here, so what is the purpose? There's no life beyond death if he isn't by my side on the way.

My sight got brighter within seconds, now I can see clearly. Every inch of wall space is covered with gold paint and dozens of multicolored sparkles. The small window in the corner too has a gold binding, decorated in ancient markings I'm not familiar with. “Ok, how many times is Pace going to kidnap me and move me to a different location!?” I said loud enough. Caleb walked in, looking a bit tired. I remembered Leah telling me vampires don't have to sleep, but sometimes they need to, sometimes people use their ability's too often. Not much does this happen, only when a very powerful ability is used, an ability like mine.

“Are you trying to wake the whole covenant?” Caleb asked, a bit annoyed.

Yes. “No” I let a smile out. A small, innocent smile. Not that noticeable... to a human. “Did I wake you?” I don't care.

“Yes, you did.” Still not caring.

“Tell me the truth Caleb.” I choose my words carefully. “Why is Pace keeping me here? And why does my room look like it's from an egyptian temple?”

Pain crossed his face. “Please don't ask me”

“Why not?”

“Because he has to tell you everything.” I turned to see Riley standing in the corner.

“Riley!” I ran over to where she's standing and she hugged me. “How did you get here?”

“Good question. How did you get here?”

“Thats none of your business. Now I believe your about to tell Mia a little about whats going on. Why you have to tell her everything she asks. Oops” Her eyes a shinning blue, but better then the ocean and sky put together. “That slipped.” A mocking smile played across her face.

I considered asking Riley to take me to Kyle so this would all be said and done with, but a part of me wanted to hear what Caleb has to say. “Tell me, please”.

A growl escaped Caleb's chest. He turned to me. “It's hard to explain. It's like two halves of a heart. One has a persons name, and one has another. This person can't help but loving the other person, even if they've never seen each other before. It's irreversible, a very hard thing to deal with, and you want to tell your other half everything.

How it happened, none of us are sure, but my other half is you.”

I starred back at Caleb as if he's insane. “I'm your other what!” It's more of a statement then a fact. 

Riley had, had enough. She went over to the bed, set me beside her, and laughed. I swear she looked as if she's about to cry. “Um.. hon.. are you Ok?” My voice is gentle and soft. That's an improvement over the last few days.

She turned to look at me, the laughter stopped. “Am I Ok? Am I Ok? How can you ask that! Your the one who almost died, is turning into a vampire, have a angry X holding you captive, and your asking me if I'm Ok? Mia! Why? Do you enjoy staying here? Where no one but me can find.” Riley's eye's were hurt and she sat motionless.

“I'm..”

“Don't you dare apologize.” Riley's eye's turned dead cold.

“Ok then, er.. how did you find me? I'm trapped all the way in...uh... were are we Caleb?” I looked over to him to see he's standing by the end of the bed. Further away from Riley but still inching over to me. 'This boy needs to stop that because it's really starting to freak me out.' I thought.

Caleb looks over into my eyes. “Don't be afraid of me. I'm a bit weird but I'm still normal” He laughed. “In some ways. If I'm scaring you, why didn't you just say so. I rather you tell me then keep it bottled up inside your head.”

“What do you mean? How did you know I was thinking that?” 'Seriously he is... oh that's right, you can read my thoughts. Hmm... how about this. Unless you want me to come over there and kick your skinny little butt, GET OUT OF MY MIND!'

Caleb staggered back; serves him right for reading my mind. “How can you read my mind? Kyle can't, but you to have the same... special type thing.” I didn't know how to say it. Kyle can't read my mind at all and yet Caleb can. Now I'll have to be more careful with my thoughts.

“Ha” Riley said in laughter. “Looks like your powers aren't so amazing after all.” I was sitting on Riley's lap, starting to laugh with her. She apologetically hugged me and said: “I'm sorry but I couldn't help but probing his mind. It's so interesting! All the things he feels for you, though you clearly don't return the thought.” She eased on the last word.

I shot a glance over to Caleb. He stood halfway across the room now. A sly look crossed his face. “Well well, listen to who's talking, not even you can get a single thought of hers straight.” Caleb walked over to us again. “Is it too confusing? Too hard? Too much for a girls so small?” He's mocking her.

Riley is not that small. She stands at '4 12' and looks pretty darn scary sometimes, I still remember our first 'Little Talk' at my house. Ok, so mabey she is small, but her looks are one hundred percent deceiving. Now Riley set me down on the bed and gracefully stood up.

“That's a lot coming from a guy who flunked first grade. Oh, and may I point out the fact you've never had a girl. What's the last pick up line you used? If I could, I'd put 'u' and 'I' together in the alphabet? It's so clear, now I see why. Just like your twin brother. Theres a resemblance all right. Your both annoying, stupid, rude, ugly, and so very vulnerable to my family. You'd be dead before you had the chance to read our minds.”

Caleb dropped to a crouching position, ready to strike. Riley followed, then smiled one of those dazzling smiles I never can resist. “Are your forgetting?” She spoke as they began to circle each other. Just like a snake taking a mouse. This is all a game to her, she knows she'll win. “I know all you moves.” Riley's the snake. “Before you make them.” Caleb's the mouse. “A little gift I got from my sister.

Caleb jumped at Riley so fast it seemed impossible. I knew that no matter what, I can't stop them: I tried anyway. Riley's manipulation trick she'd gotten from Pace kept me still as a twig. I looked over to her and caught her staring at me with a mocking grin.

Riley took two steps to the side. Caleb took one. Riley stepped back two. Caleb back one. 'You can't beat her' I thought. “You'll die trying'. To bad he choose now to ignore my thoughts.

I see it in her eyes. Riley wants to end this fight already, she jumped up and kicked Caleb to the floor. Then she started hitting and cutting him with her nails. Chris came in just then but Riley already knew that. Chris hit her really hard. The hit did no effect to Riley.

I'm not going to sit back and watch her fight these two. Standing up, I tried to attack Chris. Riley, seeing I can handle this, went back to Caleb. Everything I worked for in high school, in life, no longer mattered. Killing myself could be a step up, for me. Pace, Caleb, Kyle? What would it do to them? Possibly everyone can get along, only this isn't my fantasy anymore. If I'm going to be a vampire, -or as Pace calls me now, a vampre- why not have a little fun first. When these people...guys...vampire's try to bring me or those who I care about down, their going to have a heck of a time doing it.

After so long, two teeth of mine slid out into place. At first it pierced my skin, the change, but the pain went away within seconds. This frightened me. Chris gazed up at me: probably wondering why I hadn't finished him off yet. His mind is so easy to probe a chipmunk could probably do it. “Why is she so important?” Good question. “What's going on?” Wouldn't you like to know. “Is she going to use that power of hers on me?” Ha ha, no.

“Chris” I said, walking around him. “What happens to a mouse when it disturbers a cats meal?” He shivered. I leaned in closer and grabbed his shirt, pulling him up to me, and grabbing the back of his neck with my free arm. Again, I leaned in closer. “The cat gets pretty ticked off”.

“What?” Is all Chris got the chance to say. I bit down into his neck as hard as I could, tearing and ripping from side to side. This killing, so sweet in the beginning but so sour in the end. The sensation of his blood ticked through me like a energetic charge. I feel stronger and so powerful. I know I should resent this, but I don't. Lust is a very powerful thing. It takes over even when you don't want it to. I kept drinking and finally his body lay limp in my arms. Letting him fall from my arms, I turned around.