new story feb 10

8/14/2019 New Story Feb 10

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Prologue

Shes my best friend. I tell her everything, well I did at least. But thisone thing. How could I tell her this? I cant. Thats what Ive decided. Whatwould she think of me if I told her? I rule out every thought of how she wouldreact because it wouldnt happen. I couldnt tell her. Shes the person Ibroke rules with but this one rule I couldnt break. It meant life or death. No,I couldnt tell her even if she would react like someone inhuman.

I never thought it would come to something like this, lying to her! Ivenever even dreamt about lying to her.


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1

Hey Annabelle. I said to my best friend. Her name is really Anna butfor some reason I like to call her Annabelle. She used to hate it and herreaction to the name was hilarious so maybe it just stuck even though I dontstill get the same amusing reaction.

Hey Brayden. This was unusual. She rarely used my full first name.Usually it was simply Bray, something must be wrong.

Anna, whats wrong? The tone in my voice was too worried,something I often did accidentally.

Im very protective of Anna and I dont like it when shes pained. Itmakes me feel pained. I usually overreact when somethings wrong with her,

making too big a production which annoys the crud out of her. Shed thetype of person who tries to silence her challenges and fears, keep themhidden from an audience.

Nothing Bray. Im fine. Now she uses the shortened version but I canstill hear it in her voice. Shes too tense for it to be nothing. Her eyes showit too. Blank with worry.

Dont lie to me. You know I see right through you.

Well, if you can see right through me then you should already know.

She replied, her voice full of annoyance. Lately Ive been annoying her moreeasily. Was it just her going through something or was it me?

It has to be me, if she was going through something she wouldnt hideit from me. Shes never hidden anything from me. But what had I done?

I can see right through you, that doesnt make me a mind reader. Is itsomething I did? I pulled her chin up with my index finger so her darkbrown-almost black- eyes met mine.

Well, its just that you havent been hanging around me as muchlately and I was worried I never mind. Her chin dropped. She obviouslydidnt want to make eye contact at the moment.

She was worried about what ?

What Anna? Worried about what?


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Its nothing. Lets get going we dont want to be late for the movie.She tried to walked to my car but I stopped her with my hand.

No, its obviously something. Come one Annabelles, you can tell meanything.

She sighed heavily, I was just worried that that I was losing youtoo.

Her eyes killed me inside. They glistened with tears she was holdingback at the thought of her mother, her best friend, leaving her with her dad.No goodbye, no anything.

How could I be so stupid?! She hated talking about that. She had avery hard time a year ago when her mom left and she finally opened up tome. It still pained her to talk about it. The worst part was when her dad leftabout a month later leaving her by herself, thats when my dad took her in.

Come here. I whispered as I pulled her into a tight hug. You couldnever lose me, even if you wanted to. You cant get rid of me that easily.

She buried her face in my chest, trying to hide her tears. I held hertighter. I cant believe I did this to her. To some this may seem like nothing,they may say its just a memory, the past is the past, but in truth its not.When she thinks about it, it becomes real to her, she relives it. Shes workedso hard to block it from her memory and I just brought it back in.

She was right too, I havent been hanging around her as much. Ithought thats what she wanted. I thought she was getting sick of me alwayshanging around. I guess I was wrong. Extremely wrong.

Im sorry. She whispered.

Why are you apologizing for crying? I said with a chuckle.

She pulled her head back to see my face. Because I dont like to goall emotional on you.

Dont worry about it Anna. I love you all the same. You know you cancry all over my shirt anytime.

She buried her head back into my chest but this time there were notears.


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When she pulled herself away from me she looked like a mess but Iwould never tell her that. It was kind of funny though to see how messed upshe could get in a matter or minutes. Even with her all messed up she stilllooked more beautiful than any other girl on the earth, though shes herself not nearly as beautiful as she is.

Shall we? She gestured her hand toward my blue rusted old stationwagon hand me down and we both moved to the passenger side.

I opened her car door for her and as she got in I realized I was moreexcited for this movie than any normal human being would be.


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2

So what movie are we watching? I thought it best I let her decide.

Um, That one right there looked pretty good. She pointed to a movieposter of a rated r horror film. Not one I wouldve picked out but if thatswhat she wants then I suppose its good I remember my id.

Alright. I walked up to the ticket counter.

2 tickets to see that movie right there. I wouldve said the name but Irealized if I attempted to pronounce that I wouldve humiliated myself soinstead I decided to just point to the poster.

Anna walked over to my side.

What are you doing? Youre not 2 people. She always hated when Itried to pay for her, she thought it unfair since we werent on a date (asmuch as I wish we were) so she feels she should pay for herself. I usually lether so I dont have to deal with the fit she puts on but today I honestly dontcare, she can kick and scream but Ill pay for her.

Save your money, I got this one.

Fine, but I pay for snacks. Even this compromise was hard for her.

I rolled my eyes and walked over to the snack counter, handing Annasto her and shoving mine in my jeans pocket.

Give me your money. I said to her.

She handed me her money with hesitation, clearly reading my next

move.

Couples combo with a root beer and a mountain dew. Oh and Ill takesome sour patch kids. I knew sour patch kids are Annas favorite moviecandy. They have been since she was little.

I pulled on my wallet and paid the $14.95 with my money. This is whatshe had been expecting, but wishing I wouldnt do. Her expression was


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priceless; red with anger but the eyes showed gratefulness. Thats one thingshe could never hide from me.

We walked in silence to the theater 6, smirk on my face the entire way.I glanced over to see her expression but it wasnt what I expected.

Anna, Im sorry are you mad at me?

I really wish you wouldnt pay for me. I have my own money.

Anna, you know I wouldnt pay for you if I didnt want to or if I didnthave the money. I know you have your own money but I enjoy treating youat times.

But I dont like you paying for me!

I pursed my lips to hold back the laugh at how ridiculous shes being.Oh by the way, I dont need this now. I held out my hand to try to

give back the money shed given me for snacks.

To my surprise, she accepted it. Reluctantly, but still, she held out herhand and took the money. She took her wallet from her pocket, put themoney into the smallest slit and then put the rectangular piece of fabric backinto her pocket.

Dont look so surprised, I can agree with you at times. She said with

a smile. The shock must have shown in my eyes. I couldnt help it, shenever agreed with things like this.

I put my arm around her shoulder and led her into the dark theater, wewere a little late I guess. Oh well, the movies just starting we didnt missmuch.

She flinched.

What? I whispered stopping in the middle of the aisle.

You didnt just see that, that guy just decapitated that other guy.Horror flooded her face, Im still wondering why she chose this movie. Idnever known her to be a horror film person.

Are you sure you want to view this movie? Its still early Im suretheyll refund our tickets. I whispered into her ear.


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No Im not sure but I know you wanted to see this so were going tostay.

She pulled me to the end seat in the back row.

Wow, she must really pay attention to me. I said once about 3 monthsago that I wanted to see this movie. Her and I had been watching TVtogether and there was a commercial on this. I didnt even remember thatuntil she just brought it up.

Now I feel really bad, she was only watching this movie because 3months ago I had said it look interesting. I shouldnt have let her decide. Ishould have just bought the tickets for that chick flick that came out lastweekend, I know she really wanted to see that. It had her favorite actor in it.

Anna-

She interrupted, Shhh Just watch the movie.

I tried to listen to her but I couldnt. I couldnt watch the movie with knowinghow squeamish she is. Every time she jumped, flinched or just shifted herweight I whipped my head to make sure she was ok. I think I saw probablyabout 20 minutes total. I was more focused on her widening eyes and herfidgeting hands, worrying at any time she was going to barf.

We were headed out to the car when it came. What I had beenworrying about the entire movie. Barf. A little delayed I have to say.

Anna! Are you ok?! The panic in my voice could not be hidden.

She wiped her mouth before responding to me.

Im sorry about your shoes. What?

I looked down. EWW. Gross. She puked all over my shoes! Its ok, just shoes, I can wash them.

Im not worried about my shoes. Are you ok. Do you need anything?

No, just get me home. She looked like she was going to barf again.

Ok. I helped her over to the passenger side and ran back to my side.Get her home, get her home, get her home. Oh please dont barf in my car!

These seats are fabric itll be hard to get out!


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We pulled into the driveway and I quickly ran to help her out of the car.I was to her side before she even had the door opened more than an inch.

Bray, Im fine really.

Lets just get you inside. I believe that youre fine now anyway but Ithink it best if youre inside in case your mind flashes back to one of thegruesome scenes. I chuckled at the thought of those scenes. They wereobviously fake, too fake for my enjoyment, but Anna found them to lookquite real I guess.

Hey kids how was the movie? Dad called from the living room.

It was interesting. I replied.

Bray, go wash your shoes. Anna whispered into my ear.

I had totally forgotten about my barf shoes. EWW. Yeah Ill go washthose, in the yard, with gloves.

Ill be right back dad. I need to go wash my shoes.

Wash your shoes? Oh. He mumbled under his breath. Wow, I cantbelieve I could hear that.

As I walked out to the yard to wash my shoes I heard dad and Annatalking about the movie. Strange, I feel like I can hear so much more just all

of a sudden.

This is too strange. Im just paranoid I guess.

I finished rinsing off my shoes and I left them outside to air dry as Iwalked inside to find Anna sitting on the loveseat and my dad sitting on thecouch watching the Vikings vs. Packers football game on our new flat screen

TV.

Why didnt you tell me the game was on?! This was the game Ilooked forward too the most this season, other than the super bowl but wedont know whos playing yet so

Shhh. Flag on Packers! Anna hissed. This was also the one shelooked forward to. The Green bay Packers are her team and shell neverforgive them for getting rid of Favre. Now Favre is on the Vikings and this isa huge game.


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I silently sat right by her on the loveseat suddenly enthralled in thegame. Im not sure if it was because of how into the football game Anna wasor if I was actually interested.

We all silently watched the game, there was the occasional shout of

approval or disapproval at a touchdown, interception, flag, etc. but otherthan that nobody spoke a word.

The TV seemed to blare, or at least it did to me. I soon lost my interestin the game and just pretended to be watching it. I dont usually lose myinterest in football but Im distracted today for some reason.

I wonder whats running through Annas mind right now other thanfootball. There must be something. I wish I could read her mind. No, what Iwish for even more than that is that she love me the way I love her. I really

dont think itll ever happen but a guy can always dream right?I love her more than anyone else ever could. Even if she never loves

me this way Ill never stop loving her. Ill always be here for her. Ill alwaysprotect her. Ill always keep trying. Never give up. She may someday loveme in return. Shell realize Im right for her someday.

She has to. I dont know how much longer I can bare to be just friends.I love her more than I do my own life.

I dont know how I managed to drift asleep, or even when for thatmatter, but I awoke to the sound of Annas voice.

Bray? Bray? Brayden! Wake up! You missed the end of the game!She was shaking me furiously.

How did it end? I mumbled.

Vikings won. Favre deserved it. She muttered some profanity underher breath.

I chuckled.

What?

Ive never heard you swear before. Its kind of amusing.

That wasnt meant for you to hear.


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My smile faded as I realized I was the only one who did hear it. Weirdyet again. Maybe Im just getting better hearing, or people are talking loudertrying to play a trick on my mind.

Sorry. Dont talk so loud and I wont hear you. I laughed again,

trying to keep my mood light.

Ok, well lets get you to bed.

But Im not tired now. I was out for the entire second half, I could beawake for hours more.

Well Im tired so you can stay up as late as you want just dont wakeme up.

Goodnight kids, dont argue too long. Dad said to us, already half

way up the stairs.

Hey dads going to bed. You want to head to your room and talk?

Theres seriously more you havent told me? She teased.

Not much but Im sure theres something you want to talk about. Youalways find something.

Im sure I can think of something. She took my hand and led medown our narrow hall to her room.

She took my hand? This is weird. Maybe Im dreaming.

Annabelle?

Yeah?

Could you pinch me I think Im dreaming?

Er sure? Her words came out as a question rather than astatement.

I felt a tight tug on my left arm. No I wasnt dreaming. That actuallyhurt.

Why did you think you were dreaming? She asked, curiosity filled hervoice.


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Youre holding my hand. We both glanced down at the dark handintertwined with the fair skinned hand that looked oh-so fragile.

Right, Im sorry. She let go of my hand.

No dont be, it was just surprising. I picked her small hand back upand placed it carefully into my large grisly hand.

She smiled.

She led me past her room and right into mine, which was about half the size of hers and a total disaster.

Why are we in here? I thought we were going into your large, neat room? Theres no place to even walk in here.

I thought maybe we could talk in here tonight.Why? What wrong with your room?

Whats wrong with yours?! She replied, annoyed now.

Look down! Youre stepping on underwear!

EW, gross. You know you really should clean up in here.

Yes I should, but until then we should talk in your room.

Hey fire up your laptop! Theres a new song I want you to hear.

Quit trying to distract me. Why cant we talk in your room?

Because I just dont want to tonight. She looked down, as if trying toblock out a thought without success.

Whats wrong?

Its nothing. Look can we just talk in here tonight?

Sure. But will you tell me why? The real reason? Now the curiositywas in my voice.

No. She sighed. I could tell she wanted to tell me but her mind wastelling her not to.

Please? I asked in a soft, calm voice, trying to be persuasive.


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She sighed, debating whether to follow her head or her heart on thismatter.

I got a letter from my mom today. Its still on my bed. I cant moveit, but I also cant bear to see it.

Did you read it?

Yes. She choked on the small word, fighting back the inevitabletears.

I pulled her into a tight hug and I was right of the inevitable. The tearsstarted streaming down her cheeks like a waterfall, well not necessarilydown her cheeks since most of them soaked into my shirt.

Its ok honey. I stroked her hair gently, trying to comfort her.

Im sorry.

Again tonight! Whats with you apologizing for crying? I loweredmyself to be able to meet her dark brown eyes.

I just feel bad, you having to deal with all these tears. Im not beingvery fair to you. Im acting like only my problems matter! I shouldnt do thatI need to be here for you too!

Anna, Im not going through what you are. You have a right to be like

this. And dont worry, you may not realize it but you are here for me.Whenever I need you, youre always here. Do you want to talk about theletter, get it off your mind? I knew how she would answer this but I alsoknew how I wished she would answer it.

No.

Are you sure?

Yes Im sure. But you can read it if you want to.

Id feel bad about reading your personal mail Annabelle.

You can read it. Maybe after Im asleep though, I really dont want towatch you reading it.

Ok. Come here. I pulled her into another tight hug. I wish there wassomething I could do to help her.


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We sat down on my bed, her head still buried in my chest. It felt likewe sat in that position for quite a while, both of my arms wound tightlyaround her, her body snuggled closely to mine, before she started to snore.

It was a comfort to hear her snore, it made me know she was still

there, in my arms. I cant believe she actually fell asleep though.

I wonder if I move, will it wake her? Maybe Ill wait a few more minutesbefore I disrupt her position.

The minutes passed, I tried to force myself to sleep but I couldnt. I toobadly wanted to read that letter. I wonder what it said. Its been almost ayear since her mom talked to her, and that was when she left, took herself out of Annas life. What was it like, for Anna, to have her mom contact herafter so long. It surely was not easy at all. Shed put all her effort in

blocking out her mom and now her moms trying to wedge herself back intoexistence.

After about 10 minutes I carefully laid her on my bed, head resting onmy pillow, and swiftly moved to her room. One her bed was the letter, layingthere so peacefully.

Dear Anna,

I want to let you know that I love you, baby. I didnt leave because of you and Im sorry of the pain it caused you. Although I am sorry, you needto know, I cant come back.

You should know that Im doing great, I met someone. His name is Jackson and hes a really great guy. Maybe someday youll get to meet him.

Again, I love you so very much.

Love,MOM

Wow, great. Just bring up the abandonment. And how impersonal! Typed! She couldnt even handwrite a nice letter to her daughter!


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She met someone? How could she say these things to Anna, doesntshe have the slightest clue of how this wouldve affected her. This wasntfair to Anna.

With 3 swift strides I was back in my room where Anna was snoring.Wow, I mustve hit my growth spurt finally. Only 3 strides?

Oh well, Im tired Ill worry about my height tomorrow.

I slumped down on the floor beside my bed and silently drifted asleep.

When I woke up Anna was already awake. She was leaning over the edge of the bed staring at me intently, I wondered what she was really looking at.Did I have a zit or something?

What? Do I have something on my face? I asked suddenlyextremely subconscious.

No, no, you just look different.

Different how?

I dont know. Ive been waiting for you to wake up for an hour now,how late did you stay up?

About an hour later than you. You fell asleep in my arms so I decidedwhen I got up to- well I decided that you could have my bed for the night.

I know you were about to say when you got up to read the letter. Itsok. I expected it, I told you, you could. So was the floor comfy?

Mm, it was hard but comfy enough. I chuckled.

Well, as long as you slept well. I dont want to be mean and makeyou have a bad nights rest.

I smiled. Dont worry about me. I slept just fine. Now Im fullyenergized for the day ahead of us. What would you like to do today miss?

Hmm, up to you sir.

Well, I desperately need to fix the garage door. But I guess that canwait.

No, no. Ill help. Lets go. Sooner we can get that done sooner wecan have fun.

I took her hand, just like she did with me yesterday, and led her out tothe garage. My tools were waiting by the door, I suspect this was dads hint


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to me to get this done today. He was getting pretty sick of having to lift thedoor before swinging it open every day.

Hmm, looks like Conroy was trying to tell you to get this done. Shelaughed.

Sure does. Good thing were getting it done, dont want to get paupset.

3

Well, were finally done. I said as we both slumped against thegarage wall.

Finally. She agreed.

Weve been working out here for hours. We finished the door afterabout an hour, having fixed it for my dad and touched up the paint forAnnas sake, it wan bugging her .

After the door Anna said she was strangely entertained with fixing upthe garage so she decided it could use some cleaning. I agreed, reluctantly,


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and we cleaned, scrubbed, this garage for another 3 hours. Im exhausted.And I need a shower, badly.

Alright, lets go to your room now. I think we could clean it up a bit! Imean look at how well we did in here, your room will be a piece of cake!

Not more! Was she trying to kill me ?

Come on, itll be fun! She grabbed my hand and tugged hard on myarm. I was unmoving. She tugged again, this time I moved just to keep herfrom hurting herself.

We walked into the house, into my room and started cleaning. Ivenever cleaned so much in my life!

EWWW!!!! Gross!!!!! Anna yelled.

I flitted to her side, What is it Annabelle?

This is absolutely disgusting. She held up a sandwich made of lastmonths roast beef. I have to agree with her, that is pretty gross.

Ewww, throw it in here. I held up the big black garbage bag that hadalready many other gross things in it.

After all this animosity Im sure Anna will never try to help me cleanmy room again, or, even worse, shell make me periodically do it.

The idea of her weekly rummaging through my room made menervous. I didnt mind her in my room, that wasnt what worried me, but thefact shed catalogue everything shed come across made me edgy. I nevertried to hide anything from her and I dont think theres anything in here Idont want her to see but what if there is something? Oh well, if she findssomething I havent told her about then, well, shell know.

What the heck is this?! Bray! This is my diary!

Uh-oh. That wasnt something I expected. Wait, when had I stolen herdiary? Ive never felt the urge to read it, thats personal.

Ive been looking for it everywhere! I mustve left it in here last week!Wow, it sure got buried quickly. She brushed the dust off of it.

Relief, I hadnt stolen it and shes not accusing me of stealing it. Shehad me worried for a second.

We worked in silence for a few minutes. Those few minutes felt likeforever. I wonder what Annas thinking right now.


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So, what do you think about the letter? She asked hesitantly as if shes not really sure if she wants to be talking about this.

Honest opinion?

Yes. She gulped.

I think it was incredibly rude and I cant believe she sent it to you. Ihate to see it hurting you like that. She shouldve known.

She looked down.

Im sorry I shouldnt have said it so harshly.

No no, youre right. I just thought maybe I was overreacting. Im gladthat you agree with me, now I know Im not completely crazy. She forced alaugh out.

Oh youre still crazy. I smiled as she play punched my shoulder.Dang Bray, youve grown like a foot in the past 2 days! I had to reach

up to punch your shoulder!

So I wasnt the only one who noticed my growth spurt.

Yeah, I know, weird huh?

Very.

Well, I think were done with cleaning. This room is cleaner than itever has been!

I agree. I mean its not perfect, but itll do. I can actually see thefloor! Its a miracle!

I know it is! I would say thank you but Im actually kind of missing themessiness. This carpet is not very pretty!

Thatll be our next project. Ive got some money saved up. Maybetomorrow we can check out some carpets, youre pretty handy Im sure youcould install it yourself.

I laughed. She thinks quite a lot of me doesnt she?

Maybe. I said with a smile.

What time is it?

Um, its about, I looked at my watch, 5 pm miss.


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Wow, weve been working all day! Im hungry want to go grab somedinner? Your dads not home from fishing yet so looks like were on our ownfor a while.

Sure. We deserve a treat.

We hopped into my small car and I drove us to McDonalds. Notnecessarily gourmet but its not like were rich. I got my favorite, 10 piecechicken nuggets with honey mustard and she got something shed never hadbefore: the 3 piece chicken selects. I told her she would like them and shedid.

When we got back home my dad was waiting for us by the door.

Where have you been? I got home from fishing and you two werenthere! There was an edge of panic in his voice that worried even me.

We went to McDonalds. Annabelle and I worked hard today.

Next time leave me a note.

Okay dad. Sorry to frighten you.

Its fine. His words were sharp.

Hey Anna, will you go out to the car? I left my coat in there. I didleave my coat in there but that wasnt the reason I sent her out. Somethingwas wrong and I want to find out but she doesnt do well with these things.Not when shes already stressed.

As she walked out of the house she turned to look at me, I meant to besubtle but I guess she guessed why I sent her out. Her eyes told me that sheknew. She wasnt mad though. I think she understood I didnt want tofrighten her.

Once she was safely out of hearing range I asked.

Dad, whats going on?

Nothing. His voice was softer now, like he was trying to calm downbut the panic was still evident in his voice.

Well then whats not wrong?

The legends are coming true. He sighed deeply and turned to faceme.

You mean the legends you told me about?

Yes. Have you noticed your growth spurt and your muscle build up?He smirked, I guess he was happy about this aspect.


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Yeah. Wait, Im not a part of this am I?

Its in your blood.

Anna walked through the door with my jacket over her arm and shenoticed the panic expression on my face now.

I stormed out the room. How could this happen to me?! Not with Annain the house! She cant know. But theres no way to stop this.

Maybe dads mistaken. I mean I have been working out more lately.And its inevitable that Ill get taller! He must be mistaken! Those are justsilly legends our elders use to scare us.

Once I entered my room I heard Anna and dad talking.

Whats wrong?

Its complicated Anna. Do you want to spend the night at Mailishouse tonight?

Why?

I dont think Bray will be around much tonight and if he is he might bea little bitter.

Oh well. Ill stay here. Just in case he needs me.

Anna, thats not a good idea.

I dont want to stay with Maili. Her parents fight too much. Im not inthe mood for fighting and makeovers tonight. Ill stay here no matter howunpleasant it might be.

Alright.

I wouldnt make it unpleasant for Anna. Or Ill try not to at least.

Uh-oh. Footsteps. Shes coming to my room. I bet you money shescoming for the explanation I cant give her.

Bray can I come in, please ? She whispered through the door.

I opened the door while trying to put a smile on my face.

Wipe that smile off I see right through it. I guess it wasnt a veryconvincing smile.

She walked into my room and plopped down on my bed kicking hershoes of onto the rubber mat shed given me for my shoes.

Whats wrong Bray? She pleaded.


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Oh, dads just overreacting as always. Its annoying. I walked overand sat on the bed next to her.

Wow. You feel warm. Youre not even touching me but I feel the heatcoming off of your body. Bend down, I think you have a fever!

She place her pale hand on my forehead and quickly yanked it away.

Are you feeling ok? You definitely have a fever.

This was never going to work with her in the house. I cant changewithout her noticing! She already can tell somethings up.

Oh Im fine. I think youre just cold.

Her forehead creased in confusion, then she just shrugged.

Maybe. That maybe did not sound convinced at all but I think she

was just deciding to go along with it instead of arguing.Still hiding from your room? I asked.

Yeah, but if you want me out Ill leave no worries. I need to face itsooner or later and you need your personal space, I understand, I wouldntwant someone camping out in my room over a letter-

Stop rambling. You can stay in here. Its no problem Annabelle. Ienjoy the company. I interrupted.

A smile spread across her face with relief.

Okay, thank you. She jumped up and gave me a big hug.

I would never turn her away, although her being in here probably wontbe a good idea if Im changing like this. Shes not dumb and shes heard thelegends. She thought they were all bull but shes still heard them. Annasnot allowed to know the truth. I should turn her away now, tell her to go toMailis for a few weeks; I cant though. I love her too much. She deservesbetter than to be turned away.

Spit it out. Itll be safest for her.

Annabelle, maybe you should go stay with Maili.I saw pain spread across her face.

You dont want me here? she whispered.

NO! NO! Thats not what I meant! No! I just thought- never mind,dont go!


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Thats not what I meant at all! I didnt mean to hurt her like that.Well, it is what I meant in a way. I dont want her here but thats for her owngood. Its really not very safe for her to be around me if this legend willcome true with me.

But, then again, I dont want her to go. I want her to never leave. Ilove having her around, so if it werent for the safety issue I would nevereven suggest she go stay with Maili.

Okay. But if you do get sick of me, just tell me, I can leave. Therewas still a little bit of pain spread across her face, though she was tryinghard to hide it.

Annabelles, Ill never get sick of you. Youre my best friend and youcan stay here as long as you want, and, honestly, I hope thats forever. Isaid with a chuckle.

She smiled, not fully convinced of the truth in my words but a littlerelieved. She just got an open invitation to be my friend forever, and that Illalways be here whenever she needs me and I think she liked the thought of that.

Want to watch a movie? She gestured to the TV at the bookshelf bythe end of my bed.

Sure.

I let her pick out the movie, she picked out Gone With the Wind - herfavorite classic- and she barely made it through half the movie before she

was asleep, again in my arms. I didnt move today. I fell asleep right therebeside her, drifting into a deep sleep despite her loud snoring.

When I woke up, though I had slept soundly, I did not feel refreshed. Annawas still asleep next to me. I slept fine- except for the dream. My mindraced through the possibilities of the werewolf/shape shifting occurring tome. This is the worst legend (in my opinion) of our tribe and, of course, itsthe one to come true.

I wish I could get the image of me being a wolf out of my head. I dontlike this idea at all. Although, the speed and the strength might be kind of cool.

It was a few minutes before I realized Anna was sweating. I quickly,but carefully, pulled my arm out from under her. Im too warm to be so closeto her, she could have a heat stroke. I chuckled to myself. Since when had Ibeen the hot one?


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4

Wheres Anna? I asked dad.

Shes at Mailis. I told her to go. Shes spending tonight andtomorrow night over there.

Why?

Because. Youre changing Brayden, I wanted her to stay over thereuntil, well, until youre done changing.

But-No buts, I think I know whats best right now.

When can she come back?

In a couple days. I trust youll have enough self-control by then. Butwe cant let her know about all this change, youll have to keep it veryhidden.

Dad, I never keep anything Anna.

You know the rules. You cant tell her.

Shes smart shell figure it out. I snapped.

Well, then she finds out. But until that time comes she has to beoblivious.

I stormed to my room.

He was right. I knew the rules, I cant tell her. I wonder what shesdoing right now. Im worried. She didnt want to go to Mailis house, I knowthat for a fact. Yesterday I promised her she could stay however long shewanted and now my dad tells her she cant be here right now, but whatsworse is theres no explanation we can give her.

Unless we lie. Lie to Anna? I wont do it. My dad can fly solo on thatone, I will not lie to my best friend, the one I love so dearly.

Right now I wish I still had my mom. I wish she hadnt been murdered,I wish theyd found the person who did it to her. I miss my mom. She would


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really be able to help me right now. Shed give me the million dollar advicethat wouldnt always work but would at least make me feel better.

Its been hard without my mom. Her and I were very close, like Annaand her mom were, but the biggest difference is my mom didnt choose toleave. She was trying to save me from the bullet. She died a hero. Not justbecause she risked her life for me but because she was my mom. She wasthe best mom anyone could ever have.

After she died, it was really hard on my dad and I. Mom and dad hadone of the best relationships you could find now a days. They were so happybecause they truly loved each other. My dad was the hero after that though.

Alright, Im done thinking about that. I dont like bringing that back up.

I felt tears well up inside of my eyes as I glanced at the picture of mymom by my bed. I choked them back down, the last thing I need to be doing

right now is crying.I remember, though, after my mothers death. Anna was always here,

this was before she was abandoned. She was here every day, here tocomfort me. If it wasnt for her I dont know if I couldve made it through it.

I remember one time she came with dinner shed made us. She triedmaking baked potatoes and roast. They were horrible. Ha ha. She tried sohard though so we choked it down but all we tasted was burnt! Sheapologized after she tasted it herself and said shed never force us to eat hercooking again but I told her she could force it down our throats any day. Itwas true. I enjoyed it, it may have tasted gross, but it was the thought thatcounted. She tried to help us and thats what I appreciated.

I felt the smile spread across my face as I thought about that time,replaying it over and over again in my head as I looked at the other pictureby my bed. Anna and I, Anna on my back, by the tree big smiles on ourfaces. That was taken when we were 15 years old, two years ago.

The rest of the day passed slowly but I was glad Anna wasnt here. I didntfeel so good. I still dont feel so good. Dad said its just because Imchanging.

About an hour ago I got so mad at my dad my first change happened.I ruined a perfectly good shirt and pair of jeans. I also broke our front door.Ill fix it for dad tomorrow.

This was the change dads been waiting for. This means if I can keep itunder control Anna can come back soon. Ive phased once. Now we knowwhat happens. I just need to control my anger and we should all be fine.


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According dad though its much harder said than done to keep myanger under control. I hope hes wrong about something and I hope thatsomething is this . I want to be able to keep it under control. I can keep itunder control.

I wonder if I can force myself to phase, if I can learn how to do thatmaybe I can learn how not to do it when I get upset.

I walked out of my room ran right through the living room, the kitchenand out the front door.

Be back soon dad, have a pair of clothes ready for me please! Iyelled back.

I came back after a couple hours, and sure enough, dad had my clothes onthe kitchen table with a note.

Brayden,

Out fishing, call me! I want to know how your wild day went.Love you kid.

~DAD

I dialed dads cell phone number into our ancient phone and he pickedup after 3 rings.

Bray, son, how was your day?

Great dad. I think Ive got in under control.

I heard him sigh into the phone.

Brayden, this has nothing to do with you wanting Anna back does it?

Whats wrong with wanting her back?

Well, maybe youre rushing things, you cant be sure that you have itunder control. I want you to go talk to Brogan. He was the first to change,hes the only other one right now. He can help you.

Dad, you know him and I dont get along.

Set aside your differences for just a few minutes and talk with him.Maybe even phase with him so you can be sure youve got it.

Fine.


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I shut the phone and I got dressed.

If he was going to make me go talk to Brogan then Ill do it, but then hebetter let Anna come back soon.

I started to climb into my car but I realized itll be faster just to run.

I shut the car door and bolted. This speed is amazing. Its faster whenIm in wolf form but still even when Im in human for I can go faster than mycar!

The wind hitting my face cleared my head a little by the time I reachedBrogans house.

My dad mustve called him because when I arrived he was standing inhis yard shirtless.

Hi Brayden, your dad called me and told me you were coming!

Hi, yes, against my will if you were wondering.

Bray, were of one pack now, no need to be hostile.

One pack? Youve got to be kidding me! I have to be in a pack withhim ?!

What does being in the same pack mean?

It means were a team. We protect La Pach together now.

How often do we have to associate?

Everyday.

I gulped. Everyday I have to hang out with him. This is going to be anightmare. What do we have to protect from anyway? La Pach is the safestcity in California. Maybe thats just because its the least populated though.But still, no danger is here.

Brayden? Relax. Well find some way to stay civil, and it wont be just you and I for very long. Im pretty sure some others will change too.

Fine. Can I go home now?

Your father thought maybe I could help you with phasing. He wantsto make sure you can control it before he brings your friend home.

Ugh! If I didnt love Anna so much I wouldnt be here right now! But Ihave to do this for Anna. I want her home and I know she wants to comehome too.


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Fine.

I spent two hours more with Brogan. He taught me how to phase bycommand and he gave me some tips as how to control my anger better.

I can control it.

Im running back to my house, now in wolf form.

Brogans not so bad. He made an effort to be nice to me and he evencalled my dad when we were done and he told him he thinks its safe forAnna to be back around. My dad agreed, its funny how Brogan is like a heroto dad even though hes 22 years younger than him, and Anna will becoming back tomorrow morning.

Dad also said though that the only way hell allow Anna to come backis if I agree to being in Brogans pack and him and I both phase at least 3times a week to check out the perimeter (make sure everythings safe) untilmore people join. Then its up to Brogan (hes the Alpha) to decide howoften we meet.

Im not very excited about that stipulation but if that means I getAnnabelle back then Ill do it.

Im pathetic arent I? Ill do anything for her.

Youre not pathetic Bray, youre just in love.

Woah, what was that?

Oh, right, this is Brogan, I forgot to tell you when were both in wolf form we can hear each others thoughts.

Oh. Umm ok I guess Ill have to be careful what I think from now on.

I must as well, but dont worry anything we hear from each other staysbetween us, your thoughts will never be shared, its another one of the rules .He replied.

Ok. Well, thanks for telling me.

I need to remind you, do not tell Anna about this whole thing, thatsanother rule that you must not disregard.

Dont worry Brogan, Im not planning to scare her with what I am.

I phased back to human before he could respond to that. Mindreading. Yippee. Now I cant keep any of my thoughts to myself.


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I walked through the door to find Anna sitting at the kitchen table bymore of my clothes drinking some juice.

Bray get some clothes on! She yelled as she threw the stack of clothes at me.

The imprinting. The moment I looked into her eyes (however brief thatwas) I realized that part was true too! I just imprinted on Anna! Thatsprobably the best part of this whole thing. I wonder when she feels it too.

I ran into the bathroom and quickly put them on. That must have abeen a sight for her!

I came back out while she was still drinking, now with her iPod in.

I could hear the music very clearly, although I could tell she didnt haveit up that loud. Dad said great hearing comes with this. Doesnt surpriseme, I mean wolves do have great hearing.

Im dressed Anna.

She pulled out the headphones and turned to me.

She was eying me up and down and it was making me a little nervous.Im not used to people staring at me. This is just like what I woke up toyesterday.

What? I asked.

Wow, Bray, you look different.

You said that already.

No, I mean you look even more different. Youve got a 6 pack! Andyoure at least 2 inches taller! I turn my head and you grow!

Well, Im a teenager. I can tell you now.

What?

I can tell you what you couldnt before, you just have to answer onequestion for me first. I tried not to let the excitement show through in my

voice.Ok, whats the question.

Did you feel anything different when you saw me just a minute ago?

Well, yeah I did. I didnt want to say anything though.

I smiled.


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Me too. I can tell you everything now..

For the next couple hours I talked about the legends, really it was just arefresher course since shed already heard them all. I told her about all thechanges; my new strength, my new speed, my new ability to change into awolf, my new sense of smell, my new improved hearing, everything. Shetook it quite well too. I was expecting more fear, her body to go into shock,her to call me crazy and cuss me out, something along those lines butactually she just listened intently and she seemed to believe every word Isaid.

In the end I actually showed her and thats when things got a littletricky.

The second she started to get a little panicky I quickly changed back to

human form, not caring about the clothing issue.She clutched the air around her trying to find something to keep her

steady. Her body wavered a little when her hand couldnt find anything and I caught her before she hit the ground.

Are you ok? I asked.

Im fine. Thank you though. I think that wouldve been a pretty painful fall.

I lifted her up and brought her into the living room, I laid her onto the

couch. Her face was still a little blank but she looked as if she was grabbingahold of reality again.

Do you need anything? Im sure that was bit of a surprise there.

Water?

Ok, coming right up.

I sped to the kitchen and grabbed her a water bottle from the bottomof the fridge.

Wow that was quick.

Yeah, Annabelles, remember speed comes with it.

Oh yeah, thats right. Wow, so much to take in. So youre a, uh,werewolf?

Yes I am.

Ok, well I dont really know what to say to that.


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Thats ok Anna. I know its a lot to handle, you dont have to say anything. Im just so happy you know now. I hated the fact that I had tohide it from you.

I wouldve hated it too if I were in your place. So, what, is it geneticor something?

Yeah. My great-great-great grandfather was, you know, a werewolf.

Oh. I didnt know that.

Yeah. So, uh, how are you handling all this information?

Pretty well. Its not too much. Its just weird.

No too much? Maybe she is insane. She just found out her bestfriends a werewolf, if I were her thatd be way more than too much. Iwouldnt have only been unsteadied I wouldve fainted.

Well, at least we know one thing, shes not weak.

5

The next few days with Brogan were not as torturous as I hadanticipated them to be. No they werent pleasant either but Jarrett, 17, just

joined the pack. He phased for the first time today under much council.Hes a very lighthearted person so getting him angry was not the way tomake him phase, it was near impossible. So we had to teach him how toturn into a wolf on purpose. It was difficult but we met the challenge.

Brogan was very surprised that I was the first one to imprint and hesaid he was happy for me. Im not sure whether it was sincere or not but itdid seem sincere so I thanked him. I was hoping the imprinting wouldnt betrue, I didnt want to fall out of love with Anna but now that Ive imprinted onher Im actually quite glad that it is true. Now we can both love each otherhappily.

A deep howl broke my into my thoughts and I suddenly started topanic. Im here, on the couch, watching a movie with Anna and now Imbeing called. Well, called isnt necessarily the correct word, summoned bestsuits this occasion.

Sorry honey, I have to go. Brogans calling me.

Its ok. Just hurry back!


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I ran out of the door already pulling my shorts off by the time I hit thewoods. I turned wolf mid-spring and I automatically heard Brogan and

Jarretts screaming thoughts.

Brayden! Emergency! Jarrett yelled at me.

What is it?

new story feb 10

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