Chapter 4

       Chapter 4: The First Day

 

My alarm went off at six in the morning. God it feels like it’s the middle of the night!  This is cruel! I gazed blearily at the ceiling, still half asleep as I decided whether or not to get out of bed or hit the snooze button.  I heard James wandering around the kitchen already.  When did he get up?  I thought six was early, man he’s an early riser.  I decided to forgo the snooze and got up to have a shower.  That way, when I went to the kitchen I would at least feel somewhat alive and hopefully I’d be able to be cordial.  I was definitely NOT a morning person.

After my shower I dried my hair and pulled it into a ponytail so that it was out of way, having long hair that brushed just below my shoulder blades can be a pain in the ass sometimes but I refuse to cut it off, it was the one thing that was distinctly me.  I went back to my room and quickly got dressed in the jeans and dark blue hoodie that I had bought yesterday.  I walked down the hall into the family room where I suddenly stopped and gawked.  The sunrise was so beautiful this morning.  I stood there for a few moments lost in the breathtaking beauty of the morning’s sky with its soft pinks, oranges and reds.  James chuckled softly at my reverie.  I looked at him and smiled.

“Morning kid. You sleep ok?”

“Yes” I said quietly.

“It’s beautiful isn’t it?” he asked.

“Yes.  I haven’t seen the sunrise over the water in a long time.  The lake is like a mirror.  It’s absolutely breathtaking” I looked out the window again before going to the cupboard to get a bowl and find the cereal that I wanted for breakfast.

“I hope you have a good first day.  I know it’ll take a while to get into the swing of things but I’m sure you’ll fit in, in no time” he grinned.

“Thanks James, I’m sure I’ll be fine.  I’m just a bit nervous is all” I replied.

“I have a cell phone for you.  I would have given it to you last night but I wanted to make sure it was charged and I wanted to program a few numbers in it for you.” he smiled widely handing me the phone.

“Thanks. You shouldn’t have” I said sincerely.

“No thanks needed kiddo. I want you to be able to reach me if you need me and this is the fastest way.  My office is in town but I’m on the road a lot.” he stated.

I glanced at the clock it was almost eight in morning already and I would have to get going soon. I picked up the cell phone and looked it over.  It was the latest iPhone, it had all the cool features like internet access, a camera, google maps and iTunes. It was totally sick! James really rocked.  I smiled to myself.  I wasn’t used to being taken care of like this.  It felt really nice.  I was always a bit standoffish with Stacy even though she tried to get me to open up, I never had.  She always thought I had a chip on my shoulder and to be honest I acted that way a lot.  I guess it was part of my defence mechanism.  I didn’t want anyone to get too close to me.  I’m still not sure if I can get close to anyone, let alone wanting to.

“I’ll call you later then, on my way home from school.”

“Sure kid that would be great.  If you need anything just call.”

“I will, and thanks again for everything.” I said quietly looking down at my feet.  He watched me with assessing eyes for a minute before he nodded as he left for work.  I'm not sure what he saw but I guess it was something that was at least OK.  I cleaned up the kitchen and set out for school.

 

Huntsville high school was an average size for a small town.  Nothing like the factories I used to attend in the big cities.  There were only about 1200 students in the whole school which would make it very difficult to be invisible.  As I turned into the school parking lot, kids were milling about in groups waiting for the first bell to ring.  I parked in the first parking spot I could find.  I took out my schedule to see what I had for my first class since I hadn’t bothered looking at it yesterday when I was getting everything ready for my first day.  Biology first, and then algebra and geometry, what a morning! At least the tough courses were early and my easier subjects were in the afternoon, a spare and then music.

I slowly got out of my car grabbing my gym bag and slinging it over my shoulder.  I pulled up my hood and slipped on my sunglasses as I looked around and started walking towards the main school building.  Once inside I went to the office to get my assigned locker number.

“Hello Anastasia, it’s good to see you again.  Here is your locker number, do you need help finding your first class?” the secretary asked with exuberance.

Her name was Sara Jenning, I only knew that because I looked at her name tag, and she was just as energetic today as she was last week. God what kind of happy pills was this chick on. 

It would take me forever to remember all the new names that I knew I would be inundated with today.

“Um. Thanks, no I should be able to find it” I said as I looked at the piece of paper with my locker number and combination on it.

“Your locker is on the second level near your first class.  Good luck, Oh, I spoke to the coach and you’ll do the exemption test on Friday after school, you can meet him at the gym.” she smiled warmly at me.

“Thanks, bye” I said leaving quickly so that my nervousness wouldn’t show too much.  I was always looking over my shoulder.  It was something that I had grown used to over the past few years since I had to constantly watch my back.  As I walked upstairs to the second level to find my locker and first class, I noticed a group of girls leaning by what should be the gym doors.  They watched me as I went up the stairs, I kept my eyes on the stairs only looking at them from my peripheral vision.  One of the girls had long dark hair with striking sapphire blue eyes.  I had never seen a girl like that before she was pale and very beautiful.  She was holding pompoms and leaning against the door she was in front of watching me as I ascended the stairs with curious eyes. 

I found my locker easily and dumped most of my stuff in it.  I only took a notebook and pen to class as I did not have my text book yet.  As I walking toward my first class I pushed back my hood and propped my sunglasses on my head when I saw the boy with the vivid emerald green eyes leaning against a locker talking with another boy who had the same striking sapphire blue eyes as the girl downstairs. They both glanced at me as I passed by, and I looked down at the floor letting strands of my hair that came loose from my ponytail fall forward to hide the blush I knew was creeping into my cheeks.  I took some slow deep breaths trying to calm my racing heart but I winced because I forgot about my ribs. I tried to hide it the best I could because I was nearly to my class.  I didn’t want anyone to know I was in pain since I felt that it was not a good way to make a first impression.  When I entered the room only a few other students were seated.  I went to the front of the class to talk to the teacher.  She was young, probably around 30 years old with flaming red hair.

“Hello, you must be Anastasia, I’m Ms Carla Steven’s” she smiled.

“Hi.” I smiled back “Nice to meet you.”

“Here is your textbook and you can have a seat over here” she pointed to the desk work table on the right two rows back from the front.

“Thanks” I replied and went to sit down.  A girl with curly reddish brown hair sat next to me in class.  Her name was Christine Thomas and she seemed really nice.  We both had the same morning classes so she questioned me relentlessly in between classes.

“So what do you think of our school?” she asked curiously.

“It seems pretty nice.  Kind of small though.  The last school I went to was a lot bigger than this one.” I replied with a shy smile.

Christine smiled. “Were did you go before you came here?” She was eager for information and I knew everyone would know everything I told her by lunch hour.

“The Professional Performing Arts school in New York City. I was there for a couple of years” I said matter of factly.  I really didn’t care if I told the truth about what school I had attended. What difference would it make?

“Wow. New York!  This is really different then” she said looking at me with wide eyes and almost an awed expression on her face.

“It’s no big deal really.  I lived with my aunt and she was a teacher there” I lied so well, it was scary.  Christine hammered me with questions about New York City for the rest of the morning.  She introduced me to a group of her friends when we got to the cafeteria.  I sat down and listened intently as she introduced me to the group.

“This is Sally, Carrie, Jeff, Dwayne, Jennifer, Tisha, and Michelle” she pointed to everyone as she  introduced them.

“Everyone this is Anastasia, she came from New York” she was excited and practically vibrated when she told them all the news she managed to get from me.  I just smiled and let her tell the tale.  I tried to pay attention but I was just not that interested in lying to them about myself, it was too much work.  My eyes wandered around the room.  I spotted the girl with the striking sapphire blue eyes sitting with a group of different people, the two boys I had seen in the hallway this morning and another girl.  All of them were very beautiful with pale, almost luminous skin which made them look so mysterious.  They also all had strange bright coloured eyes that appeared to almost glow.  Just then Sally asked me a question and I turned to look at her.

“Um, sorry could you repeat that? I was distracted” I said apologetically.

“That’s ok.  Christine forgot to ask you the most important question” Sally giggled.
I looked at her questioningly “She did?”

“Do you have a boyfriend or do you prefer girls?” She asked bluntly wiggling her eye brows.  I noticed that Jeff was listening more intently than the others.  I would have to be careful of him in future, perhaps a little white lie would be good right about now.

“Oh! Um, I sort of have a boyfriend and I am so not into girls” I blushed and looked at my hands embarrassed at the direction of the question.

The girls giggled. “Sorry, but we need to get all the info on you out there so that those who are possibly interest can ask you out. We don’t want any confusion” said Carrie slyly.  Carrie was a pretty, athletic looking girl with black hair that was pulled up into a ponytail.

“Wow, you guys certainly get to the point quickly! I just got here.  No one could be thinking like that already and besides Paul and I are still sort of an item.” I stated.  Paul was a real guy who I hung out with in NYC but we were just friends, he was the leader of the Crazy Arch Angels street runner’s gang.

Carrie smiled. “After you registered Friday, the rumour mill started right away.”

“After all, you're staying with James Madley.” Jennifer almost swooned.  Jennifer was a small girl with mousy dirty blond hair and braces.

“My godfather? What’s that all about?” I asked almost worried.

“He’s just so cute and he’s in the military, what isn’t there to like?” Jennifer said.

“He’s nice and all but he’s just looking after me for awhile.” I said.

“Where are your parents?” asked Dwayne.  Dwayne had red hair and freckles and he wore circular glasses like John Lennon.

“My mother died a few years ago and I don’t know who my father is.”  I didn’t have to lie about that.

“I’m sorry” he said looking at his hands embarrassed.
"It’s ok.  It’s not your fault.” I said quickly.  I was distracted just then by the group I had been watching earlier.  The boy with the vivid emerald green eyes walked by, he looked at me curiously and I looked back.  This time I didn’t blush, I wasn’t going to show my weakness.  He smiled at me and left the room.  The bell rang then warning us it was time for the next class.  Suddenly my old cell phone buzzed.  I looked down at it surprised to see the name on the view screen, it was Paul.

“Hello” I said with a smile.

“Allie, where are you?” He asked in his usual boyish voice.

“I moved, you know that” I stated flatly.

“Come on Allie, you didn’t tell anyone, you just disappeared after the run.  What’s going on ?Where are you? When are you coming back?” Paul demanded.

“Paul, I’ve started at a new school and I won’t be returning to Manhattan any time soon” I replied.

“Allie come on, where are you?” he pleaded.

“Sorry Paul I have to get to class.  I’ll call you later.” I hung up the phone without giving him the chance to ask me where I was again.  Sure I missed him, he was a good friend but I couldn’t risk telling him.  If my father used my friends to get to me they could get killed.  I also wasn't sure if any of my old friends were being watched or monitored.  I didn't want my phone traced.  I know that it takes about a minute or so to track a cell phone call.

“Was that your boyfriend?” Christine asked a bit confused as we walked out of the cafeteria with Tisha and Michelle.

“Ya, he’s being a bit over possessive.  He wants me to go back to Manhattan but I just got here and I need to give this place a chance.” I replied.

“He sounds like a bit of a jerk if you ask me.” Tisha stated.

“Well when you miss someone you tend to be a bit stupid sometimes.” I replied.  The girls nodded in agreement.

“Is there some place I can go where I can be alone to do my homework?” I asked.

“Well you could go to the library or into the gym, it’s usually empty this period” Michelle suggested.

“Could you show me where the gym is?” I asked with a soft smile.  I really needed to be alone so that I could think and doing homework was just an excuse.

Tisha and Michelle walked me to the gym, before they went to their next class, I wanted to be alone without being interrupted or stared at.  Being the new kid sucked and I had to remember what truths and what lies I had told.  I walked into the gym and headed for the bleachers.  There was a stage at the far end for assemblies and the gym’s bleachers were to the right of the stage.  I found a spot to sit where you could see the side of the stage but I couldn’t be seen.  It was nice to be hidden away in a corner without anyone being able to see me unless they came forward to the edge of the stage.  I pulled out my books and started to work on my homework when I suddenly heard heavy breathing.  I looked up and glanced around confused.  Then I noticed a guy on the stage partially hidden by the curtains with his pants down around his ankles and his hand on top of a girl’s head.  I couldn’t believe what I was seeing.  Great, if I moved or made any noise they would know that I had seen them and think I was a pervert or something.  I pulled out my ipod and put my ear buds in, as I was about to turn it on I heard the girl’s voice and realized that it was one of the girls that I had met at lunch.  I think her name is Sara or Sally something.  I couldn’t believe that she would let herself be used by a guy like that, blow jobs are so gross.  I wouldn’t want some guy spewing stuff all over me or in my mouth, I mean, he gets all the gratification and what does she get, a sore mouth and sore knees.  I could hardly wait till they were finished.  I cranked my music so that I wouldn’t have to listen to them as they decided to take it to the next level. 
I had just finished my last math problem when a hand grabbed my shoulder.  I reacted on instinct and I spun grabbing the thumb and twisting it so that the guy flipped onto his back on the bleacher below me and my other hand grabbed his throat, anger raging in my eyes as I glared at the startled jock who had just screwed the girl from my lunch table.

“I don’t think she likes being touched” said the amused deep rich voice of the boy with the vivid green eyes.  He smiled as he glanced between me and the jock.  I looked at him startled and let the jock go stepping away quickly as I removed the ear buds from my ears.

“Jesus, are you psycho or what?  I just wanted to tell you the bell was about to ring” the jock said with a shaken voice, his eyes searching mine wondering if I had seen him with the girl.

“I have a watch.  Don’t sneak up on me again, I might not hold back next time” I snapped as I stuffed my books in my bag and quickly walked down the bleachers heading for the exit.  When I glanced around for the boy with the vivid green eyes, he was gone.  I sighed to myself in relief that the spare was over.  Note to self, stay out of the gym during my spare because apparently that’s where kids went to get it on.

I found the music room on the third floor.  It was set up like a pie shape.  The room was sound proofed, that was easy to tell.  When I walked to the lower centre level to speak to the teacher I noticed the boy with the vivid emerald green eyes sitting at the drums.  He watched me intently as I moved to the front of the class.  I started to feel a bit self conscious because I knew he had witnessed my rash reaction to the jock and I wasn’t exactly proud of myself for being so defensive.  He had also been at the gas station the other day and I hadn’t been all that nice that day either.

“You must be Anastasia, I’m Mr. Chang.  Do you play an instrument?” the teacher asked smiling at me.

“Yes, I play the harp” I answered.

Mr. Chang raised an eyebrow at me. “Really, that’s an unusual instrument to play. Where did you learn to play?”

“I went to the Professional Performing Arts School and my aunt played for the NYC symphony orchestra.  She taught me to play.  It was my favourite instrument and I always thought it was elegant.” I spoke softly as most of the students were already in their seats.  Mr. Chang thought for a moment.

“I don’t have a harp here at the moment but I’ll see if I can get one here for you to play by the end of the week.”

“Ok” I said as I looked at my feet.

“For now you can have a seat by the piano. Can you play that as well?” Mr. Chang asked quizzically.

I nodded and moved to the piano, everyone at the Professional Performing Arts School had to play the piano.  It was kind of the basic instrument there, sort of like how everyone knows how to do basic math functions; we all had to learn how to play the piano. Mr. Chang nodded with a smile as I walked to the piano and sat quietly as class began.

Once class was over a beautiful, slender girl with long blond hair and vivid emerald green eyes approached me.  I remembered her from the cafeteria.  She looked very similar to the boy sitting behind the drums and she was carrying a piccolo in her hand.  She stopped in front of me and smiled widely.

“Hi.  My name is Elizabeth Foxworth.  I thought you played the piano very well.”

“Thank you.  I’m Anastasia” I said shyly.

“You can call my Lizzy.  Everyone else does.  That's my brother Alexander, he’s the one on the drums.” She looked over her shoulder gesturing with her head towards her brother.

“Are you twins?  You look a lot alike” I asked curiously.  I looked down at my feet trying to fight off the blush for being so forward.

“Ya, I know its way to obvious isn’t it?  Our cousins always tease us” she laughed.  Her laugh was wonderful it had such a sweet melodic sound to it that I could not help but smile back at her.

“Do you play any other instruments” I asked.

“Oh, I play the flute and the piano too.” she replied cheerily. “Would you like to go out to a movie with me this weekend?  I know you’re new in town and I thought you might like to see the sights” she asked brightly. “I know it’s not New York, but I would love to give you the grand tour of Huntsville if you’re up for it!”

“I have to run it by my godfather first but it sounds good to me.” I replied nodding with a hesitant smile.

“Ok.  Let me know tomorrow.”

“Sure.  I’ll talk to you later and thanks for the invite.” I smiled shyly at her.

Lizzy walked up the steps to the door where her brother waited patiently watching every move I made.  She turned smiling brightly and waved as she swung out the door.  I stood there contemplating what had just transpired and I grinned to myself.  Mr. Chang looked at me. “Lizzy is a very smart girl.  She would be a good friend for you.” he said approvingly.  “By the way, great job at the piano today.”

I smiled at him. “Thanks, I’ll see you tomorrow.  I really hope you can get that harp because I’d love to keep up with that instrument” I said eagerly.

“Considering how well you play the piano I can’t wait to see what you can do with the harp. I’m sure I can pull a few strings” he laughed at his own joke.  It was corny but I couldn’t help grinning back at him.

I walked to my car after I had collected all my books and homework.  As I approached the parking lot I noticed the group of students who I had met at lunch were all gathered around a group of cars.  Christine waved and I smiled in return.  Jeff, Joel and Sara or was it Sally were watching me as I threw my bag into my car.

“Hey, Anastasia” Christine called.

“Yes” I replied.

“What are you doing after school tomorrow?” she asked inquisitively.

“I don’t have any plans” I looked at her questioningly.

“Would you like to come to my place and hang for a bit?” she asked.

“Sure, that sounds great” I said.  Jeff and Joel immediately started talking, whispering frantically between each other at this news.  I looked at them wondering what the heck they were up to.  Weird.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, Christine” I smiled and waved at her as I got in my car to head home.  She waved back as I sped off.

I called James to let him know that I was on my way home.  He told me that he would be late and to eat whatever I wanted or order out whatever I felt like.  When I got home I sat at the kitchen table and finished all my homework. I got up and walked to the refrigerator to find something to eat.  Perusing my options, I thought, left over Chinese food it is.  I made myself a plate, threw it in the microwave and then went to see what kind of movies James had to watch.  I wasn’t really into watching TV much.  I loved movies because I felt they were a great way to relax.  My favourites are action/adventure, fantasy, martial arts, and the occasional girly movie.  James had mostly action movies which was cool.  I chose to watch Resident Evil.  I hadn’t seen it in a while and if I fell asleep during it, it wouldn’t matter.  I curled up on the coach with a blanket, a pillow and my plate of Chinese food and hit play.  I relaxed so much that I fell asleep after eating my dinner.  I woke  suddenly and jumped off the couch swivelling into a defensive position when a hand touched my shoulder while scanning the room for a weapon that I could use on who ever touched me.  James jumped back with his hands up in front of him.  He moved very slowly until I realized who I was looking at.  I flushed beet red when I realized it was him.

“Sorry to startle you, Anastasia.” James said quietly as if trying to reassure a wounded animal.

“It’s ok.  I’m sorry I’m so jumpy. I fell asleep watching a movie.  I didn’t hear you come in.” I apologised, as my heart rate slowed to a more relaxed rhythm.

“I should really go to bed.  I have to be up early in the morning” I started to straighten up, wincing at the pain in my side. Damn, I’m going to need some Tylenol.

“Anastasia are you sure you’re ok?” James asked looking at me with concern.  I turned and looked at my godfather.

“James I’m sorry but this is who I am, I’ve been running for a long time and the only way I’ve survived this long is by being on guard all the time.  Stacy never understood why my defensiveness got worse over time.  But that defensiveness is what saved me from the two goon’s who tried to force me to go with them to my father a week and a half ago. That’s how I ended up here.  So I’m asking you to be patient and understand that this is the way I am.” I looked at him begging with my eyes for his understanding.

“Okay, I’ll try to but you don’t have to be afraid here. I hope you understand that. I won’t let anything happen to you.  So, how was your first day at school?” he asked trying to change the subject for me.

“You know, it was pretty good actually.  I think I made some new friends and one of the girls in my music class named Lizzy Foxworth asked me to a movie this weekend and she’s going to show me around.  Is that ok?” I asked.

“Lizzy, eh? She’s a nice kid.  I know her uncle and aunt, they’re good people, so sure go have some fun.  You could use some down time” he smiled but the worry was still in his eyes.

“Thanks James, it’ll give me something to look forward too.” I said with a bit too much happiness in my voice.

“Oh ya, my music teacher is going to try to get a harp for me to play. I hope he can, it’s my favourite instrument.” I beamed genuinely.

“That sounds great kid.  I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you.” James smiled and winked.

“Night James I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Night kid.” James watched me move down the hall, he was still worried about me.  I saw his sad worried expression in the mirror as I passed by it on the way into my room. 

   I just hoped that James would give me the time I needed.  I doubt I would relax much, but I will adjust eventually. Well, let’s think about the good things instead of the psycho things I’ve done today.  I met so many new people and they seemed rather nice to me, so I think I’ll fit in here ok.  I was excited about meeting Lizzy and finding out that the boy with the vivid emerald green eyes like hers was her twin brother Alexander.  Now I had a name to go with that beautiful face.  I could dream about those eyes and now I had a name!  What am I thinking...? I can’t get infatuated with him.  I scowled at myself in the mirror.  You know you can’t get involved with anyone.  “You have to be strong” I chanted that for a few minutes.  But I knew as soon as I closed my eyes only one thing would happen.  I would dream of Alexander.

Chapter 3

Chapter 3: Vivid eyes

The next day was the first day of my new life.  I would be seventeen in only a few weeks, and even though I had my uncertain future ahead of me the one thing I was looking forward to was a routine.  School would be nice, and James seemed like a really great guy.  He was waiting for me in the small kitchen area off the main room.  There was toast and jam on the table waiting for me. I smiled at him in thanks and ate quickly.  We had a lot to do today since I was going to enrol at my new school and go shopping for some clothes and of course school supplies.

I was looking out the windows as we drove into town.  I was surprised at how small this town really was.  I was so used to being in a large city that this rural life was going to take some getting used to.  James turned onto a street named Brunel, as we drove up the road I noticed a modern sign on the left made of wood and painted blue that had an electronic message board with the message ‘welcome back students’ scrolling by.  We had reached Huntsville high school. It was a moderate size but what surprised me was, as we turned onto Camp Kitchen Road, I noticed that the school had almost no lawn.  There was no football field or soccer field just a parking lot that backed onto the arena and rocks and forest. How strange, I thought to myself.  What school doesn’t have a football, soccer or track team?  And if they do, where do they practice?

 We had arrived at the local high school around ten in the morning so the parking lot was full of cars and there were a few students lounging outside in the sun who were most likely ditching class because it was such a beautiful day.  As I got out of the car and looked at the front of my new school, I noticed some beautiful paintings hanging on the side of the school.  I had never seen anything like them.  There were four of them on the wall each depicting a scene of nature ranging from mountains to the Aurora Borealis, it was so unique.  James led me up the steps to the main entrance and opened the door and let me enter then he led me to the office.  The secretary was surprised when we walked in.  It was almost the end of September and the leaves outside were just beginning to turn different colours. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My godfather was talking to the secretary and giving her all my information when I was startled out of my thoughts as the most good looking boy I had ever seen walked by the office window.  It was the same guy I noticed from the gas station, he was probably seventeen or eighteen years old and about six feet two inches tall with vivid emerald green eyes and blond wavy hair.  He wore a simple cream coloured polo shirt which clung to the contours of his well defined chest and a pair of relaxed fit, light coloured jeans.  He glanced at me for a second as he slowed his pace, and my heart quickened.  I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks, I was beet red in a full blush as he disappeared down the hall.  I never stared at people if I could help it and if I do, I usually made sure they didn’t notice.  I was sure he had noticed though especially since I saw a hint of a smile on his lips as he passed the window.  I turned quickly back to the secretary when she spoke to me.

“Here’s your schedule dear.  Your first day will be Monday I’m assuming?” she asked looking at James and myself for confirmation.

“Sure, Monday” I said quickly not really interested in what she had to say to be honest, my mind was still on the hottie who had just walked by.

“Our school is very different than your last school but I’m sure you’ll fit in soon” she smiled warmly.

“Ya, sure” I said and rolled my eyes.  James knew I wasn’t thrilled that they had no arts school here.

“Well, you can challenge your physical education classes if you want because of your last school but not many people pass.  The coach has a friend who came up with an amazing obstacle course and if you can make it through in a certain amount of time you are exempt from the class” she smiled.  My interest suddenly piqued, I asked “What kind of obstacle course and has anyone passed it?”

“Only four students have ever beaten the coach and his friend.  The Worthington’s and the Foxworth’s I’m sure you’ll meet them soon.  They are hard to miss” she smiled knowingly.

“Tell the coach I’ll do the challenge” thinking I could use a bit of alone time to do homework.

 

Once all the papers were in order, James and I left the office and headed for his car.  James took me to Orillia to go shopping.  I got a bunch of new cloths and a winter coat and boots.  Winter in northern Ontario was definitely cold and there was always snow.  

When we got home from our shopping trip there was a large envelop waiting for James on the front porch.  I looked at him curiously as he glanced at the writing.  He looked at me and turned slowly back towards the car. 

“I’ll be back in about an hour or so, I have to pick something up.  Don’t worry you’re not alone.  Go put your new stuff away and get things ready for Monday.  You’re going to be the new kid and everyone will want to know who you are!” he chuckled when he saw my horrified look.

“Thanks so much.  I’ve only tried to stay incognito for most of my life, you’re making this out to be like a celebrity sighting or something” I said sarcastically.

“Kid you’ve been more places than most of the kids that are in that school.  I’m sure you can come up with a great story to tell.” And he was off, laughing as he got into his car and drove away.

I put my new clothes away and set up my back pack for school.  I went to the kitchen to make something for dinner.  A knock on the door got my defences up and I grabbed a knife off the counter and headed for the door.  I peeked out the window and saw a woman with black hair in a Purolator Courier uniform holding an electronic scanning machine.  I sighed and slipped the knife on top of the fridge and opened the door.

“I have a package for an Anastasia Graham.” She smiled. “Sign here please.”

“That’s me, thanks.” I smiled as I saw the large box of my stuff on the porch.  I dragged the box into the house and quickly unpacked it.  James came in a few minutes later with two bags of Chinese food.  I raised an eyebrow at him.  “Don’t you ever cook?”

“Only on Sundays,” he said in an amused voice. “The rest of the time I survive on sandwiches and take out”

I smirked and shook my head.

“What’s this knife doing here on top of the fridge?” he asked eyeing me with concern.

“Someone came to the door and I guess I was over reacting a bit so I put it there.  Sorry I’ll put it away.” I reached for the knife and quickly placed it in the wooden knife block on the counter.  James watched me with concern still in his eyes but said nothing.  I guess he realized that I was still very much on edge, and I hadn’t told him about the fight in the alley.  My ribs still hurt like hell if I moved the wrong way, and I had taped my left side pretty good to hide the injury but the bruising was still colours of purple and a hint of yellow.

“So, where is this supposed body guard you keep telling me about?” I inquired changing the subject.

“Where you can’t see them” he said seriously.

“Why?” I asked curiously.

“Because that’s part of the deal, you’re protected but you don’t know who they are.  It’s better that way because I want you to have as normal a life as possible.  You’re seventeen years old and I don’t want you to think you’re being crowded” he said seriously.

“What are you talking about?  I’m not seventeen for a couple more weeks!” I looked at him confused.  I had forgotten that I hadn’t told him when my birthday was.

“You turned seventeen in August,” he said almost as confused. “She never told you? Wow! She really did protect you, even from yourself.” he said as he shook his head. “Your birthday is August eighteenth. I was there when you were born.” he looked at me seriously and thoughtfully while he waited for the impact of his words sink in.

I was dumbfounded and I just sat there staring at him.  I finally found my words again after a few minutes. “I’m seventeen.”  “August!” they were statements not questions, I was trying to wrap my head around this. Obviously I would be eighteen a lot sooner than I thought.

“Are you ok?” James asked with concern.

“I think so.  I just need a sec to process this.  I’ll be eighteen in eleven months.” Shock was definitely setting in.

“Here, sit down and have something to eat.” We ate in silence while I mulled over this new piece of information. When dinner was over I got up and started clearing the table.

“Oh, by the way, I’ll leave the keys to my car on the table so you can drive yourself to school on Monday.  I put you on my car insurance, that way you don’t have to take the bus and you’ll have a quick getaway if needed” James said socially.

“Thank you, but what about you? How will you get around?” I didn’t want to be a bother but it was really nice of him to let me use his car.

“Don’t worry about me, my new truck will be ready in the morning.” he smiled wagging his eyebrows up and down. He looked very excited and pleased with himself about his new toy.
 

The rest of the weekend went by quickly as I wandered around James’ place and went grocery shopping in town.  On Sunday James gave me his gas card and told me to fill up the car. When I was at the gas station I saw the boy with the vivid green eyes again and he was surrounded by a bunch of giggling, flirting airhead girls all vying for his attention.  He seemed vaguely amused by them and it was at that moment I decided that I didn’t like him because I felt he was leading those girls on. No matter how much they threw themselves at him he didn’t really seem to care.  I hated guys like that and no matter how gorgeous he is I would never say yes to him.  I paid for my gas and as I got into my car I saw him move from the wall and start walking towards me.  I quickly started the car and drove away.  When I looked in the rear view mirror I saw an amused smirk on his face.  Pompous ass, I thought to myself.

I went to my room early that night so that I could get a good night sleep.  I was worried and nervous about my first day at a new school.  I always hated being stared at it made me feel like I had a bull’s eye painted on my back.  I was hoping that I would have a least one class with the green eyed boy I saw yesterday because even if he was a jerk, it would make my day.  Eye candy was always nice and even though I knew I was being silly and that I shouldn’t get my hopes up, I could at least dream.  I wasn’t allowed to get attached to anyone because if I did they could possibly put a claim on me.  I refused to be controlled in any way and I’ve fought to long and hard to stay free of commitments.  But I couldn’t help the fantasy that was spinning through my head, meeting that perfect guy with the amazing vivid emerald green eyes.  Going on a date for the first time and dancing the night away.

“Ug,” I said. “I’m such an idiot.”  I shook my head trying to clear it of daydreams and fantasies.  I crawled into bed and pulled the pillow over my head blocking out the moon light and snuggled deep into the covers.  I finally fell asleep sometime after midnight.

 

Chapter 2

Chapter 2: New Beginnings

 





 

“Can I help you?” a deep voice from behind me said.  I yelped as I jumped and turned at the sound.  I blushed of course when I saw the huge man standing in front of me.  He sheepishly grinned and apologised for startling me. It was surprising and embarrassing since I was not used to being snuck up on. 

“I-I’m looking for James Madley.” I stammered as the sweat on my forehead started to trickle down my face. I brushed the back of my hand across my forehead.

“Well you’ve found him. What can I do for you kid?” he said smiling in a friendly manner.

I was relieved and stunned to see my godfather standing in front of me.  He’s about six foot six inches tall with sandy blond hair and pale blue eyes almost the colour of the sky in early spring.  He is a huge man, and built as solid as a brick house.  He was very good looking but almost terrifying to look at because of his size.  I guess the look on my face was what made him laugh, a deep warm heartfelt booming laugh that made me smile in return.  I relaxed slightly, took a deep breath and handed him the letter my mother had written for him. “I’m supposed to give you this.”

He read the letter quickly, nodded and asked me to come inside with a motion of his hand. 

“So, I guess we need to talk this out then don’t we?” he said politely.

“Where do you want me to start?” I asked “I have so many questions and not many answers.”

He smiled softly at me “Well, why don’t you tell me how all this happened and how you came to be here at my house?”

“Ok.  Well my mom and I moved around a lot, which I’m sure you know.  While we were in Las Cruses, New Mexico my father caught up with us, I...I saw him.,” my voice started shaking. 

“It’s OK kid, take it slow, I know you’ve had a tough go of things and I’m here to listen. I won’t hurt you.  I promised your mother a long time ago that I would protect you with all the resources at my disposal” he said, his voice soft and warm.

I looked at him curiously.  How did he know my mother and what exactly did he know and would he tell me?  He laughed at me again.

“Don’t worry, I’ll tell you my story when you’ve finished yours.”

I sighed, swallowed the lump in my throat then continued. “I saw my father and one of his goon’s kill her.  They killed my mother.  They didn’t see me hiding in the hallway.   I wanted to go to the FBI or the police but I didn’t know if it would have done any good.  My father is apparently a very powerful man.  I managed to slip away without them seeing me but I couldn’t destroy any of the pictures and things that we normally did when we moved.  So he knows what I look like now.  Although he thinks I’m a brunette with brown eyes,” I muttered with a bit of annoyance. “I stayed with my mother’s friend Stacy in New York for a few years.  But it wasn’t long before one of my father’s family members found me again and I had to disappear.  So here I am, at your door wondering what I’m going to do, and if you’ll help me.  That’s my story.” I took a deep breath, exhaled and looked into my godfather’s eyes waiting for his response.

He knew that I only passed along the highlights keeping as much information to myself as possible without compromising details that may be a bit too sensitive for the time being.  He watched me with an assessing gaze, that made me feel like squirming in my seat before he responded.

“Well, you are in a pickle aren’t you?” he stated.  “Well I guess you’ll be staying here until this whole mess is sorted out.  I was waiting for this day to come, I knew it would.  Your mother was a brave lady and she lasted a lot longer than I thought she would” he sighed and ran a hand through his short hair.  “I guess I had better tell you my story and how your mother and I were connected and of course all the parts that you don’t know about your own situation.” he looked at me with concerned expression on his face.

        My mouth dropped open at this blunt statement... I started to say something incoherent and of course James look at me with amusement. “Hang on kid, breathe, I think you need some water I know I need a beer.  This is going to take a while.” he rose from his chair and moved to the fridge.  He grabbed a bottle of water and a beer then returned to the table and sat down sliding the water bottle to me before he spoke.

“I guess I should tell you about myself first.  Yes, I am your real godfather.  Your mother and I knew each other for years.  We went to high school together and I was like the big brother she never had.  I was always watching out for her.  When she accepted the six week exchange program to Oxford, I was thrilled for her.  She was a great nurse but she always wanted to travel and this was the best way she could think of, school and travel. She loved to learn new things, and she loved to write poetry.  When she met your father, things moved very quickly.  I didn’t meet him until the day of the wedding and I must say, I did not approve.  I tried to warn her, I used my contacts to look into his background.  His family is powerful and they will do whatever is necessary to achieve their goals.  Your mother was just a means to an end for them. They wanted you.  Above all else, they wanted you, a child with a very special gift.  A gift so amazing that if they could control it, it would bring them absolute power. So your mother hid you from them. She knew that she would die to protect you from them and she wanted nothing more than your freedom.  That you have the right to choose your own path in life.”

I looked down, I was frustrated and angry.  Why had she never told me of James Madley? And what was he talking about?

“I don’t understand...what kind of connections do you have? And what is this ‘gift’ I’m supposed to have? And what can I do?” I asked my questions in rapid succession, I could feel the heat of frustration radiating off my face.

“Slow down kid.   It’s OK. Remember breathe... I used to work for the government in a military secretive kind of way... that’s all I’m going to say about that.  Just know that no one will get anywhere near you with the individuals I have watching you.  They’ve been on your trail since you first used you real name.  Surprised I see.  You wouldn’t see them, they are very good at what they do.” he smiled.

My stomach growled then.  I blushed, I hated it when I did that, it felt like my body was betraying me.  My godfather smiled.

“You must be hungry? Do you like pizza? I’ll order in.”  He said grabbing his phone.

I nodded, stretched out the kinks in my back gently and got out of my chair.  Thinking food would be lovely but I needed some time to think and organise my thoughts.

“Can I have a shower?  I need to let some of this stuff sink in before we continue” I asked James.

“Sure, the bathroom is right over there, the first door to the left of the front door.  You can have the room down that small hall, the door on the right.  The pizza will be here in 40 minutes or so. Take your time.”

“Kay” I replied tiredly as I moved to get up from the chair.

I took a slow deep breath and grabbed my stuff and turned towards the hall.  I looked around for the first time.  James’ house was small but cosy, an open concept with hardwood floors.  The kitchen and family room are on the main floor with a small hallway that leads to the two bedrooms.  A staircase leading down to the basement was to the right of the hallway.  In the living room there was a wood stove for heat in the winter and a set of sliding doors leading out to a wrap around deck that looked out onto Fox Lake.  Fox Lake is a small pretty lake with a quiet, calming atmosphere. 

            I walked into the small bathroom and turned the water on for a shower.  I undressed slowly because my ribs still hurt like hell.  Looking into the mirror I saw the deep blue black bruises that were just starting to turn yellow around the edges.  I took a deep breath and flinched at the pain.  Stepping into the shower I sighed enjoying the hot water splashing down my back.  I let the warmth soak into my shoulders and started to relax.  Once my shower was done I pulled out a large tensor bandage and wrapped it around my chest to help support my most likely broken ribs.  I pulled on a baggy tee and a pair of shorts and then wondered back into the main living area.

When the pizza arrived James and I sat at the table and he started our conversation again as we ate.  “Well we need to get you into school, so I guess we’ll do that tomorrow and if you want we’ll go shopping to get you some new clothes and stuff to get you settled here.”

“Thanks that would be great” I said quietly looking at my hands. “I didn’t bring much with me on the road.  I had to leave in a hurry.”  James watched me for a moment and then looked out the window, a look of contemplation on his face.

We ate quietly for a while.

“James, what is this gift that I’m supposed to have?  What is it that makes me on the so called wanted list anyway?” I asked my voice sounding frustrated as I searched his pale blue eyes for answers.

He smiled gently at me. “I can’t be exactly sure how it will manifest, but from what little your mother was able to find out, you will be able to do things with your mind.  I’m not exactly sure how it works and neither did your mother.   She also said that your abilities would start to manifest a few months after your seventeenth birthday and be fully developed by your eighteenth birthday.  She said that you would either be free to choose your own path or you would be under the control of your father because he has a claim on you.  You are his daughter and if he stakes his claim, you will have no choice but to obey him.”

“What do you mean by stakes his claim?  When, and how, would he be able to do that?”

“From what your mother told me and from what my friends have been able to learn, he or technically anyone close to you, can stake a claim on you and you wouldn’t have much choice about it.  All your father has to do is verbally state that you belong to him.  I'm not sure what he actually has to say but your mother said that the only way she could think of that would keep you safe is for you to go away on your own for your birthday.  I’m not even sure if that would work to be honest.” 

“This really sucks.  Mom and I thought that running would protect me, I guess she was wrong.  I really do have to face him don’t I?” I sighed.

“Don’t worry about that right now it’ll be awhile before he finds you here.  My contacts have set up a few decoys to keep you protected for a while.  Right now I think you should go to bed and get some sleep.  I need to make a few calls and set some things up.”

“Set things up??” I cocked my head to the side questioningly.

James smiled “Don’t worry kid, nothing for you to worry about.”

“See you in the morning?” I asked almost worried to walk away from James in case he was too good to be true and disappeared on me.

“Ya kid.  I’ll be here.  I don’t have to go to work for a few days.  You’re lucky that I’m here, I was planning on going hunting, but don’t worry I’ve changed my mind.   I bet things are going to be interesting with you around to keep me company.” he winked at me with a lopsided grin on his face.

I smirked as I got up. “Night then, and thanks.”
"See you in the morning kid”