by Rachel Leigh
“All good. I’ll be in, in a sec,” I tell him.
Cocking a brow in concern, his eyes dance back and forth between me and Madison. “Alright. We need to finish that conversation before I leave. So, hurry up.”
Once he’s back inside, I do what I have to do to rush her out of here. “Fine. I’ll come see you tonight. We can talk about the future.” The word ‘future’ always appeases her. Right now, I just need her gone.
She presses a chaste kiss to my cheek. “See you in class.” Then she spins on her heel and walks away.
In class? We don’t have any classes together. Brushing it off, I go back in to talk to Talon. I can’t fight this battle with Madison on my own any longer. It’s time to come clean.
“What the hell was that about?” he asks as he sits on the couch, lacing up his black boots.
“Madison knows.” I spit it out with zero hesitation or thought behind it.
His laces drop and he gets to his feet. “What the hell do you mean Madison knows?”
Pacing the floor behind the couch where he stands, I attempt to explain. “She followed me and Zed that night. She saw us put Josh in the trunk of the car. She thinks we killed him. No matter how many times I tell her we didn’t.”
“What the fuck, man?” He snaps. His fingers grip the sides of his head and he fists his hair. “Why the hell are you just now telling us this? Fuck!” he shouts even louder.
“I didn’t wanna stir up unnecessary shit. Thought I had it all under control. She’s fucking crazy, Talon. Really fucking crazy.” I stop pacing and face him. His face is pale as he drops down onto the couch.
Circling around it, I drop down next to him. “I fucked her. Multiple times.”
His head twists around and his eyebrows shoot to his forehead. “You fucked your sister?”
“She’s not my sister. Everyone needs to quit saying that shit. I knew the chick two months before our parents got married. The point is, she’s become obsessed with me. She follows me. Threatens to turn us in if I don’t do what she wants.”
His hands slap to his legs. “Well, what the hell does she want?”
“Me.” My head drops into my hands and I rub my temples aggressively. “We need to stop her. I’ll use my one shot on her. This just has to end. I’ve got too much shit going on to deal with her.”
“Alright.”
“Alright?” I question.
“Yeah. If that’s what you want, then that’s what you get. We made a deal. We’ve got you, man.” He slaps a hand to my back. “No questions asked. Consider it done.” He begins tying his laces again.
I breathe out a sigh of relief. There’s one truth I gave them. A little weight off my shoulder. Eventually, I’ll have to tell them about Willa, but not yet. The more I think about it, maybe her leaving wouldn’t be such a bad idea. Then I think about the baby. I don’t wanna be a dad, but if I don’t have a choice, I want to try to at least be a good one. I want more for this baby than what I had growing up. I’d probably fuck this kid up, anyway. Maybe it would be better off without me. Willa will be an amazing mom, no doubt. I might just need to let them get as far away as possible so that they can be free of this town and of me.
Grabbing his phone and keys from the couch, he heads toward the door. “Now we just have to deal with Zed. I say we agree to help him. We have no choice. We’ll stop Madison and help him with his revenge against the pastor at the same time.”
“What makes you so sure that it’s the pastor he’s after? What if it’s Willa?”
“Just a hunch. But if it is Willa, then she better say a prayer because ready or not, here we come.” He pulls the door open. “I have to meet Marni, but don’t worry, man. This all sucks ass, but we’re in this together.”
Once he’s out the door, I sink farther into the couch. What if it is Willa that Zed wants?
I’ll have to break the pact.
It’s my duty to protect her now. No matter what the cost. As much as I hate it, Willa and her baby are my responsibility now.
But first, I need to make sure that baby is mine.
9
I could stand in the middle of the crowded hall of this school and scream at the top of my lungs, and I still don’t think anyone would notice me. I suppose it’s better that way. If they did notice me, they’d quickly realize why they never did before.
I’m nothing special. Nothing much to contribute to society, aside from rehearsed Bible scriptures that I’ve repeated in my head countless times.
I can count on one hand how many times I’ve put makeup on. Haven’t done more than brush my hair since I was a kid, and that was only because Mom did it for me. She’d drag that brush through my hair so aggressively that I thought for sure I’d grow up with bald spots. To my surprise, I have a full head of luxurious caramel colored virgin hair. Never dyed, and never scorched with a straightener or hair dryer.
Hugging my books tightly to my chest, I travel down the halls like an invisible ghost. A squadron of freshman girls with Crayola-colored faces and bright clothes walk toward me. Five of them. Lined up in a planned parallel line, taking up the entire space of the hall. I’m smack dab in the center. I try to swerve to miss them, but the taller and thinner of the girls nudges her shoulder into mine. Without even cracking a devious smile, they continue on their way. Yep, I’m veiled by the misfortune of being a loser.
My heart jumps into my stomach and I instantly begin to sweat when I see Lars. With one hand pressed against a locker, the corner of his mouth tugs up in that sexy way it always does. Squeezing my books tighter, I pray, please don’t look at me.
There was a time that I prayed to be noticed by him. I still get those weird giddy feelings and butterflies in my stomach when I see him—probably always will. He was the first boy I ever loved. But, he was also the first boy to ever break my heart. Scratch that. He was the first boy to ever rip my heart from my chest and play monkey in the middle with it while I stood there in tears because I just wanted to be invisible again.
The first couple of weeks back to school after summer break were tortuous. I thought that after a few days, people would forget, but that wasn’t the case. It seems to have all blown over now and I’m back to being Sweater Girl, or Whispering Willa, as they like to call me.
As I draw closer, my heart beats violently in my chest, rattling my rib cage. When he doesn’t even lift his head, sickness pools in my stomach as I wonder why he doesn’t notice me. I’m so messed up. I beg not to be noticed and then I drive myself crazy wondering why I’m not. I suppose I thought that after everything that happened over the last couple days, he’d at least acknowledge me with a wave or a smile.
Passing by, I notice that beneath his arm is a petite blonde with glowing skin and a crop top that shows off her belly button ring. She’s beautiful. Of course he’s flirting with her. Why wouldn’t he? I was just a bet. He never actually noticed me. Still doesn’t.
Feeling sick and pitiful, I keep walking. As if there were an invisible string from him to me, my head turns and I glance over my shoulder. My heart melts in a puddle when his eyes catch mine. Something holds my gaze on his as I continue to walk forward. Gorgeous green eyes, a slender nose, dark hair with natural highlights, perfect white teeth, and a chiseled jaw that wears a little scruff. He conforms to being a misfit so well. Dressed in black jeans that run into his black boots. A white T-shirt that hugs tightly to his toned, bronze skin. And tattoos that paint a picture of his life.
Still staring, he cocks a smile. But it’s not meant for me. It’s for the girl who’s got her hand on his waist giggling. Just as the string snaps and he looks back down to her, I feel the smack of the cold brick wall to my head.
“Ouch,” I shriek as I rub the top of my head. Looking around, I see if anyone noticed. And of course they did. You see, I am invisible until I do something stupid like trip over my own feet, walk into a wall, or give my virginity to one of the most sought after guys in Redwood. Then I become the center of attention. Jada Mont
gomery is keeled over laughing at me as her and her posse all point and find humor in my clumsiness.
“You ok?” Trent asks, as he comes hurriedly to my side.
“I’m fine. Just another day.” I brush it off and turn in the appropriate direction to the theater room.
“You sure? That’s a pretty big goose egg you’ve got there.” His fingers glide over my forehead and I shriek at the pain.
Feeling it for myself, my eyes bug out. “Oh my gosh, is it noticeable?” This is just great. I have the second part of my audition for the lead role of Belle today, which means all eyes will be on me. That’s my luck, or lack thereof.
“I mean, it’s big.” He tells me. I’m not sure if he’s trying to be reassuring, but he most definitely is not.
Trent is a good person, and a good friend. He looks at me the way that I used to look at Lars. He’s probably the only person on this planet who sees something in me that I don’t see in myself. Beauty and adoration. I wish I could give him more than just my friendship, but old wounds have to heal before I can offer anyone a piece of my heart.
“Willa.” I hear my name called from behind us. It’s an unfamiliar voice. I turn my head and see Lars’ stepsister Madison jogging toward me. “I saw what happened. Are you ok, sweetie?” she says in a tone that one might use to talk to a toddler.
“I’m ok. Thank you for asking.” This girl gives me bad vibes.
“Oh, good. I was worried about you. Here,” she grabs my books from my hands. “Let me carry those for you.” She turns her attention to Trent. “You can go now. I’ve got her.” Her tone is demeaning and harsh.
“We..I..we’re going to the same class. We always walk together.” He tells her as he stutters over his words, making it apparent that he’s highly intimidated by the girl.
Madison shoots a thumb at Trent and chuckles. “Is this guy your friend?”
I stop walking. Getting defensive, I huff. “Yes. Is that a problem?”
The aggression in my tone must have thrown her for a loop. All of my classmates would be surprised to learn that I am, in fact, growing a backbone thanks to their sly remarks and threats, as well as the fact that they’ve seen me entirely naked on video and admitting that I finger myself from time to time. Holding up a hand, she raises her brows. “No problem at all. Just making sure he wasn’t bothering you.”
Since when does Madison Bishop give a damn about me? And why is she treating me like a child?
Hooking an arm around mine like we’re old friends, she gives me a pull. “Well, come on. We’ll be late.”
I try to stop her movements, but she keeps on walking, taking me with her. “Don’t you have to get to class?”
“Mmhmm. I switched classes. Now let’s go. I have an audition for the role of Belle in three minutes.”
Pausing my steps, I look at her for confirmation that I heard her correctly. “You’re auditioning for the part of Belle?”
Excitement leaks from her pores. “I am!” she beams. “I have no doubt the part is mine. Three years of singing lessons and a member of drama club since middle school, how could I not?” She giggles.
Something churns inside my stomach. Like lava spilling out and rushing through every inch of my body. “You’re auditioning for the role of Belle?” My voice cracks and I realize that I sound like a sad child.
“Of course, I am.” She laughs again. It’s high pitched and rings loudly in my ears. “With my experience, I belong in the spotlight.” She stops, turns to me, and raises her brows with a fake pity that makes me nauseous. “Wait, is that the role you wanted? I’m so sorry.”
“No. Of course not.” I lie. “I don’t have much experience other than church choir and—”
“Good. Because sweetie, you’re far too shy for center stage.” Pulling me again, we continue to walk while her hold on my arm burns through the fabric of my knitted sweater. “You’d be an amazing Enchantress.”
Enchantress? The Enchantress has a silent role.
I didn’t even know Madison was joining the drama class. She’s the second one to drop in mid-semester. Lars being the other.
It’s probably better this way. I didn’t even want the stupid part. Ok, I did. Even though I have no intention of being here after Christmas break or for the musical, I wanted to prove to myself that I could get it. Sort of a holy grail and ‘watch me do this’ before I fled town. I wanted it so badly, but there is no way I can compete with Madison. She’s boisterous and outgoing. Beautiful and well-liked. I’m just...me.
We walk backstage and I force a smile on my face. Lars is already kicked back in the recliner while minions dance around him trying to do his job with the sound. As soon as his eyes land on us, he springs up from his comfortable position. “Madison, what are you doing here?” he spits out. Leaving me to assume he wasn’t aware of his sister’s schedule change.
“Told the guidance counselor that I wanted to pursue my dream of acting and she got me right in. You can thank your dad and his generous donation to the drama club.”
“I’ll be sure to do that.” His eyes dance back and forth from me to Madison, who still has her arm clutched around mine. Pointing a finger between us, he asks, “What’s this? When did you two become friends.”
Remaining silent, I let Madison talk because, honestly, I have no idea what her sudden interest in me is.
“It’s recent, but I think it’s the start of a beautiful friendship.” She smirks, forcing me to smile back at Lars.
I don’t have many friends, and personally, I don’t want any. Even if I did, Madison Bishop would not be anywhere near my list of people who I want in my life. Sure, she’s popular, but she’s also condescending and I get the feeling that she knew exactly what she was doing by stealing this part. I’m not the fool that most people take me for. My silence shouldn’t be misconstrued as stupidity. I choose my battles wisely and a stupid high school play is the least of my concerns.
Although, a friendship with Madison could benefit me. I have a hunch that these two don’t get along. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to have her on my side.
“We are soooo glad to have you joining us, Madison.” Mrs. Rhys beams with eagerness as she places both hands on Madison’s shoulders. “I’ve heard so many great things about your performance at your last school. Meet me out front and we’ll get started with the opening chorus for your audition.”
I’ve heard so many good things about your performance at your last school. I mock Mrs. Rhys in my head in disgust. I might as well just join the stage crew because I’m toast. And I don’t mean the role as a toaster. I doubt I’d even get that.
Madison leaves with Mrs. Rhys and Lars comes up beside me. My heart swells when I see the pity in his eyes. He knows what’s going on and now he’s going to pretend that he feels sorry for me. When I go to speak, I hold up a hand. “Just leave it alone. I didn’t want the part anyways.” Tears well in my eyes and I turn away quickly before he can see them. It’s ridiculous, why am I so emotional over this? It’s a play. This is high school. It’s not important. I’ve fought off monsters and had my body stolen by thieves, but I’m sulking over the loss of a role.
I pull open the door and rush out into the empty hall. My eyes are dead set on the girls bathroom as I hurry to it. Pushing open the door, I let it close behind me before locking myself in the back stall. I don’t even pay attention to the fact that it’s filthy as my back slides down the wall. Swallowing down the lump in my throat, I begin to cry.
I hate this school. I hate this town. I hate everyone.
And they all hate me, too.
It’s us against the world, sweet baby. They can take my dignity, steal my part, and hold my body hostage, but they will never take you away from me. Ever. I’ll die first.
When the door squeaks open, I grab some toilet paper that’s hanging from the holder on the wall. Ripping it off, I begin patting my eyes and hold off on exiting the stall until they finish their business and leave.
“Ya know, Willa
.” My heart drops when I hear his voice. Why is he in here? “You have just as much of a shot as she does. I heard you sing. You’re really good.”
“You shouldn’t be in here.” I choke out as I sniffle and wipe the snot from my nose.
“Neither should you. You should be out there, claiming your role and showing everyone why you deserve to be Belle.”
He doesn’t understand. “You don’t understand. I’m not like you, Lars. I’m not like Madison, or Talon, or Marni.” People don’t notice me and no one cares what I have to say. I’m unseen, unheard, and nonexistent.
“You’re right. You’re not. You’re better than us.” The door squeaks open and I wait until the air is still before getting to my feet.
Drowning my sorrows, I stop at the mirror and take a quick look at the girl staring back at me. With red-rimmed eyes, I fake a smile at myself in an attempt to trick my brain into thinking that I’m happy. I’ve always heard that’s a thing. Sometimes it works; sometimes it doesn’t.
Pushing the bathroom door open, I step back out into the hall. “Trent stepped down.” My heart jumps, taking my body along with it.
“Why aren’t you in class?” I ask Lars.
Pushing himself off the wall that his foot was kicked up on, he walks alongside me. “Trent stepped down from the audition. Rhys wants me to take it.”
I don’t mean to laugh. But I do. “You’re kidding me? You? In a play? As a lead role. Good one, Mrs. Rhys.”
“I’m dead serious.”
“Trent wants this more than anything. There’s no way he’d step down.” I stop walking and drop my tone down a few octaves. “What did you do, Lars?”
“I didn’t do a damn thing. You think I want this? No fucking way.”
“It doesn’t make any sense.”
“You’re right it doesn’t. But as of right now, no one will step up and take the part.”
“Then you have to do it. The show must go on.”
“Spoken like a true actress.” He bites his lip and it does something to my insides. Shooting tiny bolts of lightning through my entire body. “I’ll make you a deal. I’ll audition, if you do, too.”
