by Amy Hale
“It’s easy,” she yelled. “Just step off and flap your wings. Instinct will take over.”
Falling terrified me. I moved to the edge and looked down. It had to be hundreds of feet to the bottom. I felt my claws dig into the earth of their own will, grasping at anything that would pull me from the edge. Instead, I’d managed to mangle the earth beneath me until it gave way, and I fell.
Screaming as I plunged to the earth, I frantically tried to remember what Aunt Jetta had instructed. The wind rushed past my face, and my eyes couldn’t focus as dirt, rocks, and trees passed my vision at a breakneck pace. Without effort, my wings extended fully, and I flapped them in a panic. It wasn’t elegant or delicate, but it kept me from colliding with the rocks below.
I slowly rose into the air, trying to gain my bearings while I worked to smooth my rhythm. Aunt Jetta swooped down beside me, then shot back up into the air like a rocket, her body spinning like a top as she passed through the clouds.
I wanted to do that. I wanted to soar and dive and swoop. I flew up to where she’d disappeared and hovered in place as I searched for her. “Aunt Jetta! Where are you?”
She glided next to me, as if she were swimming in the air. “I’m here, sweetie.”
“I want to do all of that. All of it!”
She laughed. “You will, just follow my lead.”
She pointed her head down, tucked in her legs and pulled her wings tight against her back. She bolted like a rocket.
I repeated her motions, and in seconds, the ground rushed up to meet me. It was exhilarating! As we neared the ground we both extended our wings, and they worked like a parachute, slowing our descent. We flapped a few times, and once again we were rising about the trees.
I continued to lift, letting all my stress and worries slip away. This brought peace. This was heaven. I lost track of time as I practiced gliding across the sky, enjoying a freedom I’d never felt before.
Aunt Jetta landed on an outcropping of rocks, and I settled in beside her.
“It’s an amazing feeling, isn’t it?” she murmured.
“It is. It’s my new favorite thing.” I couldn’t keep the awe from my voice. I reveled in this newfound ability.
“Something you need to know, Zoey. Don’t lose yourself too much as you fly. If your dragon gains too much control, your human side may never return.”
I blinked several times as I tried to comprehend what she meant. “I might stay a dragon forever?”
“Only if you truly choose it. And in this day and age, sometimes it seems the better choice. But never forget that there are wonders to your human side, too. Things you would miss, and people who would miss you.”
I nodded. “I promise to be careful.”
“Good.” She stretched her wings once more. “We should probably head back. Tomorrow is a big day.”
My time with Aunt Jetta yesterday had been amazing. I’d learned that shifting back required a similar process as before. I had to embrace my alter ego each time.
December third had finally arrived—my sixteenth birthday and the day of the Cold Moon Ball. Everyone ran around like mad, setting up for the various festivities that would begin around dinner time. I helped my dad set up the tables inside the Annex, which is where the party began. It was a large sandstone complex comprised of three connected warehouses. The Market building was used as a community hub on Saturdays and showcased the best the area had to offer from local farmers and artisans. The middle building was the Theater. It was open in the front, and the back half housed a large screen and stage for movies, concerts, and plays. My personal favorite was the Art Museum. I enjoyed looking at the array of talent that enriched our small-town lives. Paintings, pottery, quilting, and jewelry were just a few of the items on display. I also reveled in the historical pieces that gave the public a glossed-over glimpse into the community’s origins. A majority of the town turned out for this festival, so all three warehouses would be opened to accommodate the residents of Havenwood Falls.
After everyone was fed, the schedule then listed games and socializing in the square, followed by a parade of wagons leading up to the ball held in Mills Mansion.
Dad and I were in the Market area of the Annex, while Mom helped set up in the Art Building.
“Dad, when did you learn what your unique dragon gift was?” I handed him a chair.
“Well.” He sat the chair down and turned to face me. “If I remember correctly, it was on my sixteenth birthday. That’s roughly when it happens. Have you not discovered yours?”
I shook my head. “I keep thinking I’ll wake up with some amazing revelation or ability. So far, nothing.” Odd that I found that fact disappointing, considering it terrified me days ago.
“Don’t worry. It’ll happen when you need it to.” He began to unfold another table.
“What does that mean?” I pouted a bit.
“It means that when you need that specific ability the most, it will surprise you.” He continued to work.
“And that’ll happen today?” I wasn’t sure what to think of that piece of news.
“More than likely, sweetheart.” He eyed some townsfolk approaching to help with tables and nodded in their direction.
I looked over and waved, then turned back to him. “I guess we’ll have to finish this conversation later.”
Why do we always seem to get interrupted just when the conversation is getting good?
“Absolutely.” He winked at me.
I continued to set up chairs until every empty spot at the tables had a seat. I kept my mind on more pleasant things, like Jordan. I’d relived that kiss in the gazebo a hundred times since it happened. It was more thrilling than shifting and magical necklaces. It felt much like flying. Every time I thought of it, a tingle ran all the way down to my toes. As for Kai, I did my best not to think of him. His memory brought emotional chaos and confusion.
I looked forward to seeing Jordan at the dinner and ball. He was handsome in everyday clothing, and I could only imagine how fantastic he’d look in a suit. I was lingering on that mental picture when Miranda’s voice interrupted my daydream.
“Zoey! I’m so excited!” She grabbed my arm and squeezed.
“Hey, what’s up?” I tried not to let it show that she’d almost scared me witless.
“Guess who asked me to save a dance or two for him at the ball?” Her voice squeaked out a high-pitched sound.
I looked at her for a moment as I tried to figure out who could possibly make her this wound up. “Mr. Zander?”
She screwed up her face in disgust. “Ew, no. That’d be icky. He’s old enough to be your dad.”
“My dad? Why not your dad?”
“My dad is really old. Like, great-great-grandpa old, if I understand my mother correctly.” She stuck her hands in her pockets.
“Oh yeah. I forgot about the immortality thing. My dad’s older than you’d guess too, but not that old.” I sighed. “Wait, I thought you had a thing for Mr. Zander?”
“Oh, he’s nice to look at, but realistically that’s about it. I need someone my own age . . . who won’t go to jail for dating me.” She giggled, and I had to join her. It was kind of absurd, once I gave it some consideration.
“Okay, so who is it then?” I couldn’t think of anyone she’d shown specific interest in.
“Kai Reynolds.” She beamed.
My eyebrows raised so high, I feared they’d disappear into my hairline. “Kai? The Kai that threatened me?” My brain screamed, The Kai I’ve dreamed about? No way I would admit that one out loud.
“Yes, same one.” She sat on one of the chairs I’d just set up. “He’s not all that bad when you get to know him. I’ve always thought he was cute. Besides, keep your friends close and your enemies closer.” Her smile held a hint of mischief.
“Wait . . . what are you planning?” I sat next to her. “You don’t really like him, do you?”
“I do, but I don’t trust him. I’m not above using him to keep tabs on hi
m.” She waved a hand in front of me. “I know. I know. It’s not the moral thing to do, but I think he’s up to something. I don’t want him ruining your big night. So, after a generous amount of flirting with him, he asked me to dance with him at the ball.” She rubbed her hands together for maximum effect. “He will fall prey to my charms and drop all his devious plans.”
“I’m not doubting your charms, Miranda, but what if it doesn’t work?” I hoped she didn’t take insult at my question.
She shrugged. “Then we’ll have my cousins drag him off and keep him occupied.”
I laughed out loud at that. “Oh, Miranda. You’re such a joy in my life.”
She sighed dramatically. “I’m glad someone appreciates me.”
I grabbed her hand and gave it a squeeze. “Oh, you have no idea. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
I looked in the mirror and fidgeted.
“Honey, you look beautiful. Stop fretting.” Mom kissed the top of my head.
“I just don’t want to embarrass myself.” I turned my face to see if my hair was all still in place. Mom had curled it and piled it on top of my head, leaving a few ringlets to frame my face. Crystal-tipped bobby pins held it all in place, making my hair shine like the inside of our cave. I had to admit that my raven hair, with the unusual pearl-like streaks, looked fantastic all curled up.
“You won’t embarrass yourself. You will be brilliant. Jordan will take one look at you and be knocked off his feet.” She adjusted the bodice of my gown a little.
I tried not to blush. “You think?”
“No, I know. Now, time for the finishing touch.” She slipped my grandmother’s opal necklace around my neck.
The pendant felt cool against my bare skin. It matched very well with the light blue strapless gown I wore. The taffeta had a similar ability to shift colors with the lighting. I felt like Cinderella going to the ball. I only prayed it didn’t end with me running away like a coward and leaving a trail of clothing behind me.
Mom adjusted her own dress, then placed a hand on my arm. “Ready?”
I nodded, we grabbed our coats, and I followed her outside to wait for Dad. We didn’t have to wait long. He pulled the car up front, and we carefully seated ourselves. I did my best to keep the seatbelt from crushing my bodice.
In a few minutes, we were at the Annex and finding our seats at the table. Jordan had not yet arrived when we took our place, so I saved him a spot next to me.
The servers began to tend to each table. Plates were piled high with turkey, potatoes, beans, salads, and what looked like every dessert imaginable. I wasn’t sure I’d ever seen that much food in my life. At first, I worried that this was an extravagant waste when there were so many in need, then I noticed something I wasn’t expecting. People from all walks of life were present. Regardless of financial or social standing, everyone mingled together over a free meal and the joy of giving. It warmed my heart to see so much goodwill. Especially knowing that most of the time, various sects of the supernatural citizenry preferred to avoid each other.
I scanned the crowd, but didn’t spot Jordan or his family. I wasn’t totally sure his mom and dad would even attend, given their tense relationship. Then I saw them. Jordan’s mom looked lovely in a pale yellow dress. Her makeup was impeccable, and her bruises were well hidden. It made me mad that she had injuries to hide in the first place, but at least she could attend and enjoy herself. Jordan stood close by, talking with . . . Katy.
My heart dropped to my stomach. She was cute, I couldn’t deny that. She had more friends than I did as well. But surely Jordan wouldn’t ditch me for her. He’d already committed to attending the celebration with me.
I saw Katy lean in and whisper something in his ear. He smiled and shook his head. As he turned to talk to his mother once more, Katy’s gaze landed on me, and the satisfied smirk on her face caused me to see red. She obviously wanted to make me jealous. Sadly, it was working.
I turned my attention to my dad as we finished our meals. It’s okay, I told myself. He’d find me soon.
As I picked at my dessert, I felt the hairs on the back of my neck stand to attention. I knew before I looked who I’d find standing behind me.
“Hello, Zoey.” Kai’s voice was deep and smooth, rubbing a balm over my wounded ego. I turned to see him standing with his hands in his trouser pockets. He wore a black tuxedo and looked like he’d stepped off the pages of GQ. I closed my mouth so I wouldn’t openly gawk at his gorgeousness.
“Would you care to join me for a game of croquet? They have it set up across the street.” He smiled down at me, and I had to remember to breathe.
I pulled my gaze from his and glanced around the tables once more. Jordan seemed to have disappeared. He could be in another part of the Annex, but why hadn’t he sought me out yet?
“Sure, why not,” I stammered as I stood. I moved to gather my plate, and he stopped me.
“They have people who will clean up afterwards.” Kai took my hand and hooked it through his arm, then led me out the doors. We strolled in silence as we traversed a couple of blocks to the town square.
My fingers tingled where my skin touched the fabric of his jacket. I tried to ignore the sensations, but it was as if he sensed I wanted to pull away, so he hugged me closer to him as we walked.
“It’s a lovely night. Almost as lovely as you,” he murmured as we strolled across the grass.
I felt the heat rush to my cheeks. “Thank you, that’s very kind.”
“Nothing kind about it. I’m simply telling the truth.” He passed the game of croquet that was already in progress.
“Wait? I thought we were going to play—”
He cut off my sentence with a finger to my lips. “Shh . . . let’s just enjoy each other’s company for a while.”
My senses heightened. Something felt wrong. Something had been off from the moment he first spoke to me. I just couldn’t place it. The attraction I felt still lingered, but it was engulfed in a veil of danger. My instincts urged me to get away from him.
“Kai, I should get back. I need to speak with my parents before the parade begins.” I backed away.
He followed me, a grin pulling up the corners of his lips and exposing the tip of his fangs. “What’s your hurry, sweet Zoey? We haven’t had a chance to really get acquainted yet.”
I shook my head. “You don’t want to know me. I don’t know what you want, but it isn’t me.”
He took one more step, and as I moved to avoid him, my back hit a solid object. I looked around to find myself up against a large tree, inconveniently hiding us from the view of many in the square.
Kai put his arms on either side of me. “Oh, but it is you I’m interested in. You’re special, Zoey. And those of us who are special should stick together.” He leaned in close, and his gaze captured mine. I felt locked in that stare. My limbs refused to move. He put one hand behind my neck and pulled me close to him, then pressed his lips to mine. For a moment I relaxed, reliving the dream I’d had, then my mind screamed at me to run. This felt too familiar. We’d done this before, yet I knew we hadn’t. That dream! He did something to cause that dream! I pushed at his chest, but he barely moved. My next instinct was to bring my knee up as hard as I could. He froze, then backed away, squatting a little as he stumbled backward.
I turned and ran.
The few games that had been set up on the square were scarcely occupied. Not too many people were willing to brave the colder air outside of the Annex, but there were a few who donned their coats and took part in the fun.
I ran toward them, praying Kai wasn’t following me. I stopped near a bean bag game to catch my breath when a stray bag flew right into me, knocking me off balance and into the person next to me, who then spilled his punch all over my dress. I froze in place, surveying the damage to my skirt. My beautiful blue taffeta had been drenched with pink splotches.
I closed my eyes. “I will not cry. I will not cry,” I whispered to myself over and over
. When I opened my eyes, Katy and her two minions stood in front of me.
“Oops. I’m so clumsy. I’m so very sorry, Zoey. I ruined your dress, and the ball hasn’t even started yet.” Katy pouted as she spoke loudly, assuring bystanders heard her apology. “Here, let me help you get cleaned up.”
She grabbed my arm, and her friends gathered behind me and gave me a not-so-gentle push. They rushed me over toward the Annex, but once we were out of sight, they shoved me over to the gazebo.
“I warned you, freak.” Katy glared at me. “You have no business here or with Jordan. And now you’re cozying up to Kai, too? What a hussy.”
I stepped back from them and touched my opal, letting its soothing influence rush over me. “You do realize that my grandfather runs this shindig we’re attending tonight? That my family is one of the founding families of Havenwood Falls?” I put my hands on my hips. “If anyone doesn’t belong, I’m guessing it’s you. And you hate that. Kai and Jordan are both interested in me, and you hate that, too. You’re a jealous hag.”
Katy bristled. “Oh, you think you’re so high and mighty because you have the Mills name? But your family are a bunch of thieving, back-stabbing freaks, and you should all be run out of town.”
“What?” I asked. “What the hell are you babbling on about?”
She stepped closer to me and pointed a finger in my face. “Your grandfather and his crappy investment advice cost my family everything. We lost our vacation home, our nicest cars . . . everything that was important to me.”
“Oh lord. That’s what all this is about?” I rolled my eyes. “You need to get a grip, Katy. You obviously don’t know how investing works. Nothing is ever a sure thing. Haven’t you paid attention in economics?” I sighed. “I don’t know what advice your family did or did not take from my grandfather, but I’m hardly responsible for that.”
An angry sound formed in her throat, and for a moment, I thought she would attack me.
“Have you paid attention tonight? Did you notice Jordan has avoided you the entire evening?” She smiled sweetly, but it was full of venom. “I told him all about you. He wants nothing to do with someone like you.”
