mcrlucy

If I could have recovered enough from the wave of shock that had just washed over me, I would have lifted my jaw off the floor and pinched myself. However, all I managed to do was just shake my head at the same time as giggling hysterically; who was the mad woman now?

After I recovered (only very slightly) from the incident, my brain decided it finally wanted to engage with my mouth and I felt like I must talk. I didn't know what I was going to say as such, I'd just have to see what came out. All the while I was trying to calculate the situation; I could see Amelia to the side of me with her mouth also agape. If this wasn't so serious, I would have cried with laughter.

"Right, err, ok then," the words splurged out of my mouth, "So here you are, "claiming", that you are in fact me, only bloody 52 years older?"

"Yes," she replied, "That would be correct."

"And, tell me please, why I shouldn't just pick the phone up now and call the police or someone to come and get you away from me?"

"You know, deep in your subconscious, that you don't really want to do that," she said as if trying to brainwash me, "You're thinking that there might be something in what I'm saying that rings true. So, on the basis of that, why don't you ask me something only you would know?" Yes, I thought, that seemed a reasonable request.

"What's her name?" I nodded over in Amelia's direction.

"Your best friend, whom you have known since you were 12, is Amelia." She reeled out, "Am I correct?" she asked, but truthfully, she already knew.

"Yes, you are." I replied dumbfounded. I couldn't ask another question, I just didn't know what else to say. Then she sighed and looked at me as if she knew the turmoil my brain was in.

"Is it also correct that Amelia is not at all happy with her Mother's new partner and she wants to move in with you to get away from it all?"

"Ahhh, no," I was now seriously freaking out and I realised that she was not a mad woman after all, "I mean, yes; again you are correct."

"Well, now you can at least see that I really am not making this up. I have lived you all your life up to my age now. I am not here to scare you. I am not here to hurt you in any way." She said trying to calm me.

"Then why are you here then?" I asked feeling a little less scared. I managed to muffle a small sob that had been building up and tried to hold back a tear that was threatening to fall from my eye.

"I am here as a guide. I will not and cannot change anything that has already happened and what is going to happen, but I can steer you through it; point you in the right direction." She spoke like a mother. "Have you never wondered what your older self would say to you if you ever met them? Have you ever wondered if they could tell you to do things differently? To change something if you could?"

"No, not particularly," I responded truthfully, "I'm a firm and strong believer that everything happens for a reason and you can't change the past."

"Agreed," she said, "and like I say, I'm not here to do that. I'm not here to change anything. I'm just here whenever you need me. If you want to talk or you just feel unsure, I'm here."

"Well, I suppose I should just say thank you, although I don't know what for." I said, trying not to sound overly ungrateful. "What use are you really?"

"I can understand why you would ask that question and all I can say to you is, you will see. You don't know yet," she said, "you don't realise, but you'll know when you need me and you'll know I'm always here."

**************************

My head was a tangled ball of mixed emotions. I kind of knew deep down that this woman was telling the truth; that I was telling the truth to myself. On the other hand, I just found it so difficult to believe what was going on. I badly wanted to give Molly a hug; that's what my heart was telling me. My head, however, was telling me to hold back and see what evolves. All the while, Molly just looked at me with pure love in her eyes.

"What happens now then?" I asked my older self.

"Nothing, something or everything; It's entirely your choice Molly."

I sighed with frustration. Now I was even more confused.

"I'm sorry, but exactly what do you mean by that?" I asked again.

"Well," she started, "You can totally disregard me and anything that's just happened between us. I cannot go against your wishes. I cannot intrude where I'm not wanted." That sounded pretty good I thought, but then again? She continued without prompt.

"You could just have me floating around...... Oh Lord," she said, "I sound like some sort of apparition don't I? Ha ha. You could just have me around in the background of your life so that you call on me whenever you feel the need, OR, I can be by your side everyday if you so wish. If you choose the latter, you've no need to worry about your "street-cred"; I'm not going to be your shadow. No one will be aware of me and I'll keep a safe distance. Only you will be aware I'm around."

I didn't have to think this over too much.

"Well, I kind of liked the idea of the second thing you said if that's ok?" I asked even though I knew there was no better alternative for me.

"That's more than ok. Like I said, what you want of me is entirely up to you."

"Thank you," I smiled with relief, "Thank you, really. I know I've reacted with hostility, but......." Molly put her right hand up in the air in front of my face as if to stop me from going any further.

"You reacted in a manner which any sane person would. This is a huge thing for anyone to contemplate or come to terms with. There really is no need to apologise. I truly understand."

I finally smiled at her like I meant it. I stepped towards my older self and hugged her. She wasn't expecting it and she laughed nervously. As I stepped back, I felt my smile spread uncontrollably across my face.

"I'm going to leave you to yourself now," Molly said as if she'd got other plans to attend to, "I think Amelia is still in shock and looking at that clock on the wall behind you there," she pointed behind me and I turned to look, "it seems you don't have long before you close up and go home."

I was amazed that the time was 9:35pm; it only felt like I'd been at work for half an hour. Where had the time gone?

"Ok," I said, "Yes, it's almost time to get going but are you going to be ok though?"

"Absolutely!" she said. With that she bid goodbye and good evening to the both of us and headed for the exit door. Just as she was about to open the door, she turned and gave us a final wave before heading out and away until I would need her again. 

Almost five minutes had passed and the old lady had still not taken her eyes off me. I knew it was round about that as I just about managed to pry my eyes away from her long enough to glance at the clock on the illuminated computer monitor on the desk in front of me. When I looked back up, she was still staring at me, only this time a small smirk was playing across her lips. I was finding it increasingly difficult to tear my gaze away. Then a peculiar feeling came over me, a feeling of familiarity. Why did I feel so?

Amelia must have seen the cogs going round in my brain and asked, "Molly honey, what's the matter?"

"Amelia, I honestly don't know." I replied, bemused, "I just feel that I've seen her before or even know her somehow, but I just can't put my finger on it." I wrestled internally, trying to rack my brains. Was the old lady a friend of my parents? Was she an old school teacher? Did she used to live in my street? Each time I asked myself, I bought up blank after blank. Maybe I just had to bite the bullet and speak to her.

Amelia must have read my mind, "Why don't you speak to her to settle your mind?" I nodded over at Amelia knowing I would do just that. I don't know whether Amelia noticed, but I drew in a deep breath as I lifted the hatch at the end of the reception desk and slowly made my way over to the poetry section. I looked back at Amelia before taking the final steps to the middle aisle. All the while, I could feel the old lady's eyes boring into me.

"Excuse me," I said, slightly shakily, "Can I help you with anything?" The old lady didn't utter a word, she just sighed and smile at me. It was as if she was frustrated with the fact that I didn't know what she wanted.

"I said," I said louder than before, thinking the lady may have been hard of hearing, "CAN I HELP YOU WITH ANYTHING AT ALL?"

"There really is no need to shout young lady," she shot back, "I merely cam here to see how you are. I've been a bit worried about you and just wanted to check you were ok. Where's the harm in that now?"

"Well, there's nothing at all wrong with that," I replied, "but I do find it a little distressing when I haven't got a clue who you are! I've wracked my brains trying to pick out who you are, and nothing. What's even more distressing than that is I feel that I do know you; that I should know you?"

"Ah, you see now, you do know me." She said, almost relieved that I'd finally got it, "You've known me for all your life so far, you just won't see me very often, that's all?"

That's all? That's all? So, I've apparently always known this woman; a woman who I think I'm familiar with even though I have no recollection of ever meeting her. Either I was going insane or she was.

"Right, ok then." I accepted, "I know you so why don't I take your name and maybe that will refresh my memory?"

"You honestly need to ask my name dear?" she shook her head a little sadly, "After all the years I've been around for you and you need to ask my name? Maybe this isn't such a good idea. I shall leave you in peace to carry on with your work. I'm sorry for any upset I've caused."

Now, I'm not the kind of person who would hurt anyone, especially not an old lady, but I grabbed her by the arm as she shuffled away from me and I pulled her to face me.

"Um, hang on just one minute!" I demanded, "You can't just come in here and act like you're a long lost relative who wants to get something out of me. You just tell me your name and why you're here or I SHALL call the police, ok?" Hopefully, this scared her enough to give me the information I so needed.

"Right Molly," she name dropped and watched my face turn to shock, "If you really must ask these silly, unnecessary questions, I suppose the very least I could do is give you answers." Finally, the penny dropped.

"My name is also Molly," she divulged, "and I've known you forever. You see Molly, I am you and you are me. You are talking to your 72 year old self."

I don't remember hitting the floor as I blacked out; that's something a worried Amelia told me on that same evening. Had I imagined meeting my future self or did it really happen?

Today has been such a strain. It's Monday, so I am already lethargic after a hectic weekend and after my last lecture at 2:00pm, I literally have to get home, have a shower, grab something quick to eat and then head out to work at Central Library for 5:30pm, so I've really got to get a move on. Knowing I have to work until 10:30pm really fills me with unprecedented joy.......... NOT!

I finished my lecture at 3:45pm and got home just after 4:10pm. I practically wolfed my dinner down before having the quickest shower ever. I decided to wear my black corduroy flares and white skinny t-shirt. I pulled my dark brown/auburn shoulder length hair into a messy ponytail and put the minimum of make up on; a light covering of foundation, black eyeliner and a touch of lip gloss on my lips before popping my thick, black rimmed specs on. There, all done by 5:00pm. All I needed to do now was walk to work. That's the beauty of working in a library that's just down the road. I also work some weekend shifts now and again at my local pub, The Gargoyle but luckily I got this weekend off. Shifts there can be sporadic, but I am grateful of any work that comes my way.

That's the one and only problem with living on your own - you need all the money you can get to keep your small roof over your head. I of course know that my parents are only a phone call or short walk away, so if it ever got too much for me I know I'll always have a home with them, but I love my independence. My Sister, Alexandra, still lives at home with my parents. She is studying to become a Sports & Physical Education Teacher. The money she gets from her part time job/work experience at the local swimming pool gets spend on her passion for shopping. Sometimes, I wish life was still that easy for me but ultimately I am happy to live the life that I have.

I arrived at Central Library at precisely 5:24pm which gave me enough time to pop to the ladies to give myself the once over and use the toilet. I was out at reception at bang on 5:30pm to take over from Amelia, my colleague and fellow student at college. She's also my very best friend. Amelia and I have been great friends since we were both 12 years old. She's younger than me by just under a month. She's always there for me and is as much a Sister to me as Alexandra, who is also a great friend. Amelia is far prettier than me although she doesn't ever make any kind of deal out of it. She is very slightly taller than me and has a fantastic figure. She has perfect teeth and rosy cheeks and deep brown, glossy, chin length hair. I could go on about how amazing she is until the stars fall from the sky, but she hates it and can never see it for herself.

"Hey honey, I'm Superwoman and I've come to free you of this ball and chain that is Central Library!" I exclaimed exaggeratedly and hugged like only a best friend could.

"Christ Molly, you scared the crap out of me. I was in a world of my own for a while there." She replied after her shock.

"Come on," I said as I grabbed her hoodie and backpack from under the reception desk, "Time for you to get home and relax."

"Actually, would it be ok for me to come and stay with you for a while?" She asked quietly.

"Of course it is honey, but do you really not want to go home?" I asked, knowing that I would if I had the chance.

"I can't wait to go home," she replied, "but I wanted to have a quick chat with you about something when it's quiet. Oh, and also, I want to keep an eye on you; make sure your shift goes ok?"

This conversation was a) very intriguing and b) also a little unnerving, so I asked what any other slightly freaked out girl would ask, "Why do you want to keep an eye on me? I can assure you I'm big enough to take care of myself."

"I know that," Amelia said as she looked at me like I was stupid, "Anyway, the first thing I wanted to talk to you about is to see if you wouldn't mind having me as a lodger? My Mom's met a new guy that I really cannot stand and I want out!" She practically shouted at me.

"Shhhh; just think where we are?" I reminded her, "Of course you can come live with me. Christ knows it'll help out with the rent and bills. Look, why don't you get your stuff tonight, well as much as you can, and I'll help you get your room sorted when I get back. We'll get the rest of your stuff tomorrow after college."

"Awwww, Molly, you are a life saver! What would I do without you eh?" She jumped up and wrapped her legs around my waist and her arms around my neck and almost squeezed the life out of me.

"Yes, I know I'm a life saver and no, I don't know what you'd do without me." I agreed, "Anyhow, back to the other thing; why do you want to keep an eye on me?"

"It might be me just being paranoid," she started, "but there's this strange old lady that's been here all day asking when you start work. I played dumb and said I wasn't sure, you know, to try and get rid of her, but man, she's so persistent. She's been here since 10:00am and she's showing no signs of budging."

"Where is this weird lady then Amelia? Point her out to me." I urged

Amelia didn't have to raise her pointed finger very far for me to look straight at the old lady. She was standing in the middle aisle of the poetry section and she was staring intently straight back at me.

What would you do if you came face to face with your future?

• Molly is 20 years old. She wears thick rimmed black spectacles. She has pale skin with naturally rosy cheeks and has shoulder length brown/auburn hair. Molly is the typical "nerd". She has a penchant for red wine and loses herself in books, films and music. She obsesses over comics.
• She is studying a degree in English Literature at University. She lives in a private rented flat; on her own at first, but then her best friend moves in with her. She works a minimum of 21 hours per week at Central Library (opening times: Monday to Friday 10:00am - 10:00pm and Saturday 12:00pm - 3:00pm; hours are worked in shifts) and sometimes does an evening or two at her local bar. The work in the library counts towards her degree as extra credits. The bar she works in is called The Gargoyle.
• Molly's parents and Sister live close. Although they do not see eachother as often as they used to, they still keep in contact on a daily basis through phone calls and visit eachother as often as they can. Molly's parents are Henry & Katherine and are both 45 years old. They make it possible for Molly to live on her own by transferring a small allowance into her bank to top up her earnings. They believe it's a good idea for Molly to have her independence, but their door is always open. Molly's Sister is Alexandra (Alex for short). She is 18 years old and is studying at college to become a Sports/Physical Education teacher. She is definitely the more athletic of the two sisters. Molly lost her Grandma when she was 17 years old and has never really got over it. Her Grandfather lives in a residential home and is happy (she thinks) in his own little world. He has a dog called Maggie.
• Molly will meet future Molly (who is 72 years old). She wears tortoise shell rimmed spectacles. Her hair is long and white (not grey). Her dress is casual but always stylish. Her jewellery is antique but very unique; minimal. She wears a little make up and is generally a jolly person. She is very caring and loving.

PLEASE DO NOT STEAL/PLAGIARISE THIS STORY. IT IS AN ORGINAL FICTION

Saturday 22^nd December 2007 – 02:00am

I pulled away from his embrace like my life depended on it. Had I heard him correctly or was my mind playing tricks on me? I needed to settle this; I needed to ask.

“What did you just say?” I questioned him already knowing full well what his retort would be.

“You heard me; we’ve got to clear the unfortunate mess of your dog up,” Gerard said matter-of-factly, “and we need to do something about that bitch of a best friend of yours!”

“I will not let you speak about her like that!” I barked, “If you so much as dare to touch even one hair on her head, you’ll be sorry!”

“Oh really?” he laughed, “Why; what you gonna do about it?”

I racked my brain for ideas of how I would “dispose” of Gerard, but there was nothing to find within my fear addled skull. “Oh, I don’t know; it’ll be a surprise!” was all I could muster up.

Gerard just stood there with his hands on his hips and stared at me. Slowly, a smirk started to spread over his pallid face. Damn it, I could have smacked it right off of him.

“What?” I shouted, “Why do you do that? Why do you just stand there and think all this is funny?” I tried to stop myself from getting worked up; he enjoyed it way too much.

“Because, Lucy; it’s hilarious!” he was practically jumping up and down with excitement, “I love to see you when you’re angry; you wouldn’t believe how much it turns me on!”

I’d just about had enough of trying to play him at his own game. “For fuck’s sake Gerard; you really are sick, you know that?”

“Yup; you’re not wrong,” he laughed, “but that’s why you love me!” He looked at me with those mock puppy dog eyes. I had to tell myself, “No!” don’t fall for this shit again Lucy.

“Love you!” I hollered, “Your seriously are a fruitcake if you even think I come anywhere close to having the teeniest ounce of love for you!” I took a deep breath, “I was actually starting to warm to you and your peculiar little ways, but that went out the window the minute you said you were going to harm my best friend. So, you know what?” I questioned again, “If you don’t like it then you’ll have to kill the both of us and then, well, you’ll have nothing, won’t you!”

God, I needed to breath. I don’t know where I pulled all this anger from, but as much I was shocked a little at my outburst, I also felt strong and giant like. Just as I regained some composure, I looked at Gerard whose head was now hung low; his shoulders hunched and trembling.

“You really should not have said that!” he said between stifled sobs. Then through the sobs I could just make out the laughter of a lunatic. “I would never dream of hurting you, but if this is how you’re going to treat me, then I really feel I have no choice but to.......” the laughing subsided now and he broke down; this time the sobbing was almost uncontrollable, “but to kill you!”

“Come on then Gee; do your worst!”

Saturday 22^nd December 2007 – 01:40am

“Please tell me you’re kidding?” I questioned with shock.

“Course I’m not!” She snapped back, “You really think I’d lie about something like that?

“No, no; of course you wouldn’t! I’m sorry but my head’s just a bit all over the place at the moment. One minute I’m absolutely petrified and the next, I’m worrying about the very same guy that’s doing all these awful things to us! What’s wrong with me Sarah?” I pleaded on the verge of tears.

“There’s nothing wrong with you hun! We’ve both had a real nasty shock and we’re both struggling to deal with all of this,” she sympathised, “I’m almost just thankful that I got left up here; at least he hasn’t been able to try and mess with my head. What you need you need to do is just play along with his game and then we’ll mess him up just as he’s done with us, ok?”

“Sounds like a plan!” I agreed with a nodding of my head, “I’ve got to make my way back down now; my half hours nearly up. You’ll be ok, yeah?”

“I’ve got to be haven’t I hun?” a hint of sadness evident in her voice.

“It’ll all be over soon sugar; I’ll never let him hurt you, I promise!” I meant every word. I pulled my best friend into the biggest hug I could muster and kissed her forehead. I stood up and headed back towards the bedroom door. Man, the smell is getting unbearable in here. When I got to the door I turned quickly and smiled at Sarah; it made me so happy when she smiled back.

I calmly walked down the stairs which made quite a change considering how quickly I had had to scale them earlier on. I realised that Sarah was right; the only way to win was to play Gerard at his own game. I needed to be clever about this. I needed to muster up the courage and the conviction to pull this off convincingly.

I entered the living room and noticed that the door to the kitchen was still open just as I had left it. Gerard noticed me too and was standing there ready to greet me. He smiled as I walked up to him.

“There,” I said, “I got back in half an hour just like you asked.”

“Yes, so you have; let’s give her a round of applause.” He clapped his hands together with little enthusiasm. He didn’t seem particularly happy.

“Gee, is everything ok?”

“I suppose so,” he replied with a deep sigh, “I just missed you is all. What did you two talk about up there?”

“Not a great deal to be honest with you,” I replied, “I was just so happy to see her and vice versa. We hugged and made sure we were both ok. She was asleep when I got to her; I think all this has just exhausted her. She’s my best friend and we talked like we hadn’t seen each other in years; actually, it was pretty amazing. It made me realise just how much we mean to each other.” I poured out.

“Why weren’t you ever like that to me in school?”

“Well, I didn’t really know you did I?” I replied truthfully.

“Yeah, but you could have tried to get to know me; you just didn’t put the effort in like I did!”

“I know; so that’s why I’ve decided to put the effort in now. It’s better late than never, right?”

“I suppose so,” he gestured to me to hug him, “So let’s make this the start of a beautiful relationship! Now that I’ve got you, I will not let you go again!”

I walked into his open arms and wrapped my arms around his waist. He rested his chin on the top of my head and let out a contented sigh.

“This will be a new start for us. All we’ve got to do now is dispose of your dog..........................and your best friend!”

Saturday 22^nd December 2007 – 01:20am

He looked up at me from the comfort of my lap. His eyes were now shining; a huge difference to the dark emotionless orbs that they were a mere hour or so earlier. I didn’t really know what to do with myself now. I felt completely torn; my best friend was upstairs (probably still beside herself with fear) and then there was Gerard. No! Best friends come first; I was going to have to see her.

“Listen Gerard,” I asked quietly, “would you please let me go so I can check up on Sarah? She’s been up there a while now and I need to see that she’s ok; ok?”

“Oh yeah, I forgot about her!” He looked surprised, “Well, I guess you do need to check up on her, so yeah; carry on. If you’re any longer than half an hour though, I shall be coming up there to find out what’s going on! I will let you take her gag off but the hands stay tied – you catch me?”

“Yes, I catch you. I promise I won’t be long. I’ll be back with you pronto, ok?” I replied as I bent down and kissed his forehead.

“You better; we have so much catching up to do!”

With that, I stood up from my chair and Gerard bowed for me as I stepped past him. I tried to maintain a steady walk towards the hall door, but I couldn’t disguise the quickness of my step as I got closer to it. I went through the door and I practically flew up the stairs.

As I approached my bedroom door I shuddered. Could I stomach the sight of my dead dog again? Well, I’ll soon know.

The door was still slightly ajar so I lightly pushed it open. The smell hit me like a freight train; it was horrendous. I gagged and pulled my shirt up to my nose and then locked to the floor where my best friend was.

Sarah had curled up in a ball on the floor, still hugging her knees. She was sleeping albeit fitfully. I stood there and watched her eyelids flickering and now and again her legs twitched involuntarily. I really didn’t want to wake her but Gerard’s words were swimming around my mind about not staying here too long. I really didn’t want to find out what would happen if I defaulted on our agreement.

I quietly stepped towards her then I bent down and gently untied the gag; she didn’t make a peep. I softly placed my right hand on her thigh and started to shake her slightly. She awoke with a scream of, “no, no; please don’t hurt me!” I stroked her leg to try and comfort her.

“Shush, shush, shush; it’s only me hun – Lucy. Come on now, just try and stay calm. I could feel her trembling beneath my hand.

“Oh God Lucy, it’s you!” she cried, “Oh Jesus, are you ok? What has he done to you? Please say you’re ok? She was so upset but at the same time seemed so pleased just to see my face.

“I’m fine hun; it was you I was more worried about. Are you ok?”

“Well, apart from having to look at that on the bed,” she nodded shakily to where my dog was, “I’m not really that bad; just scared out of my wits! All this has made me really tired, so I thought I’d try and shut it all out by sleeping, but that hasn’t helped much either.”

“I know. You were talking in your sleep when I came up, you poor thing.” I stroked her face and pulled her into a hug; I felt bad that she couldn’t hug me back.

“Tell me what he’s done to you? When I get free I’ll fucking kill him, I promise you!” she bellowed.

“Shush babe, please calm down. I haven’t got much time with you, so let’s make it good eh?” I pleaded. “Just so you know, he hasn’t done anything to me; well not bad anyway.”

“What do you mean; not bad anyway?” she asked.

“Well the reason why he’s doing all of this is because I turned him down at school and it’s sent him a bit over the edge. He hasn’t hurt me; in fact he’s almost been a model gentleman.” I saw Sarah’s jaw practically hit the floor. “He’s held my chair out for me and has been ever so gentle. I think he really loves me. He asked me to tell him I loved him too, which I have. I needed to get him off of my back for a while so I could come and see you.”

“You told him you loved him?! Shit me Lucy, what the hell are you playing at?” She barked.

“Ok, I know you think I’m an idiot for saying it, but you should have been down there; he looked so happy when I said it and actually he doesn’t seem all that bad.” I knew she was right; why else would I have been so defensive.

“Are you taking the piss? Lucy, come on; this nut job has just butchered your dog and put us through all hell and back and you’re saying he’s not bad? Fuck me; I’ve heard it all now!”

“I know how it looks,” I replied, again on the defensive, “but I think I could help him.”

“Well, you go right ahead, but don’t think I’ll be having any hand in this! You wouldn’t want to help him if you heard the things he was telling me. He’s putting one hell of an act on Luce ‘cus from what he was spurting out up here before you came back, you’ll end up the same as the dog!”

Friday 21^st December 2007 – Midnight

He took a sharp intake of breath.

“Right; do you remember me at all? Do I not seem familiar to you?” he implored.

“Well, now you come to mention it, I did have a small flicker of recognition earlier on, but you know; it was the furthest thing from my mind when I saw what you’d done to my dog.” I guffawed back sarcastically.

“Come on,” he urged, “rack that brain of yours; why do you remember me? Who am I?” I was really not in the mood for these mind games. I wanted to get back to Sarah; make sure she was ok.

“Brains racked – No, I don’t remember, ok?!” and I really didn’t but then all of a sudden, little snippets started to filter through my tired brain. “Errrrmm, hang on a bit, you were at school with me right?”

“Well, now we’re getting somewhere. Yes, I was. Anything else?” his eyes were boring into mine so intensely that I was finding it difficult to look back at him.

“We.........we were...........I-in the same class?” was this a shot in the dark I thought.

“Yes, yes; that’s bang on!” he exclaimed excitedly. Jeez, this guy was a complete fruit cake. Then, oh shit; I had it.

“You asked me out and if my memory serves me correctly, I turned you down?” I half questioned. I wanted confirmation.

“Well, blow me down, you’ve got it!” He jumped from his chair at this point and came and knelt back down in front of me. “And so now you know.” He nodded his head a few times before dropping his head and resting it on my knees.

“Know what? Know that this is the reason why you’ve put us through all this shit; all this terror? Know that we’ll probably be traumatised for life?” I really wanted to see this bastard squirm.

He looked up and smiled at me. He ran both his hands down my arms and slowly started to shake his head from side to side. “Oh Lucy, all those years, all those years ago I watched you. I followed you. I ate, drank and slept you. It was all for you, you know; all this. But then you declined my advances. Do you know how much that hurt; how it still hurts?” his voice quivered with restrained sobs.

“I’m so, so sorry, I really am. I didn’t realise I’d hurt you so much, but is that really any reason to do all of this?” I pleaded.

“Well, yes; it’s the best and only reason! At least this way you can’t get away from me; you won’t turn me down again.” He finally looked contented and actually, I really felt for him. He laid his head back on my knees.

“Just say my name Lucy. I’ve longed to hear you say it for such a long time. Just say my name and tell me you love me........please?” Part of me couldn’t bear to say what he wanted but part of me was truly sincere when I replied, “Ok then; I love you Gerard.”

Friday 21^st December 2007

I could have lost my footing so easily with the speed at which he dragged me down the stairs. In fact, as we got to the bottom I fell into him when he stopped abruptly before the living room door. I ended up in a heap by his feet. He looked down at me in utter disgust.

“Get up bitch!” he snapped. In the position I was in, it was extremely difficult to lever myself up to standing. He could see I was struggling so he bent down and hoisted me up. I hated his hands on me; I wanted to break his fingers so that he couldn’t touch anyone ever again.

He opened the living room door and pulled me along with him; then straight through to the kitchen. He pulled out a chair from the kitchen table and literally dumped me on it then he pulled out a chair for himself directly opposite. As he rested his elbows on the table, he stared intensely at my slumped form.

“Now, the question is; do I untie you and let you speak or do I carry on talking to what feels like a brick wall?” He pondered this for a moment before kicking back his chair and walking round to me. He pulled my chair back abruptly and knelt down to speak to me.

“I’m going to release you from these bindings but I swear to you, if you scream or do anything to draw attention to what’s happening here, I will cut you like I did your precious little pooch; understood?” I nodded quickly and finally he bought his hands round to the back of my head and untied the gag; my God it felt good. Then he, actually very gently, untied my hands which were rested on my knees.

The marks on my wrist were red and swollen, and here’s what I don’t understand; he rubbed them gently and said sorry. I was so confused; what was going on here? He seemed to pick up on my confusion and sat back down opposite me. I kept my head low and rubbed my face to try and ease the pain from where the gag had been. I was thinking about Sarah all on her own alone upstairs. I wish I would have been telepathic; I would have told her that I was fine and to try and hang on in there.

“You’re wondering why all this is happening, yes? Why I’ve done that terrible, horrible thing to your dog? Why I’m holding you hostage? Why.......well, why everything?” He asked with remorse; yes he honestly sounded remorseful. I opened my mouth to speak and after a few croaks to regain my voice, I replied.

“‘Course I fucking am! Yeah, I’m just thinking how damn normal all of this is you know. It’s just another bloody walk in the park to me!” I think he noticed the hint of sarcasm in my voice.

“Ok, ok; just calm down please. This is difficult enough for me as it is; I don’t need you going all hysterical on me!” He demanded. I was officially speechless; totally at a loss for words. I could just about manage a “go on then!” and he was certainly about to do just that!

Friday 21^st December 2007

I don’t know how he could be so blasé about all of this, but then again, I suppose you’re not right in the head if you could ever do such a thing in the first place.

I was in total shock; I didn’t know whether to laugh hysterically or cry uncontrollably, either way whatever sound that emitted from my mouth would be muffled and inaudible anyway.

We sat and watched as the intruder pondered over what his next move would be. I don’t think he was in the habit of holding people hostage. When he said he wanted to get this shown on the road, I thought he’d have done something with us by now. After a few minutes he had a Eureka moment; a smirk played across his pallid face.

“OK, I’m going to take one of your downstairs so we can have a nice little chat about stuff and shit.” He went on nonchalantly.

The look on Sarah’s face was that of pure terror. I tried to remain calm but when I kept looking at the bed and seeing my best pal lying dead on it, thoughts of torture and abuse flooded through my head. Would we see the same fate?

“Right then,” he clapped his hands together, “eenie, meenie, minie – MO!” he playfully recited and landed on me when it came to mo. He was seriously enjoying this.

Sarah tried to yell something but the gag in her mouth was stopping anything from coming out. I looked at her, trying to convey that everything would be ok, which is actually pretty difficult when you can’t touch or speak. She shook her head and let it loll forward as if she knew that this was it; this was the end.

The intruder smiled again as he sharply pulled my knees down from under my arms which were still tied up in front of me. In a funny way, I was kind of pleased that he had released my legs as my arms were really starting to ache. Once my legs were free he put both his hands under each of my armpits and heaved my up in to a standing position. As much as I was scared, the relief I felt just to be upright slightly overridden this.

He pulled me towards him and put his hands on my shoulders. He stroked my cheek with his right hand and smiled. “Ooh, now what shall we do with you Lucy? My hairs stood on end when he asked me this. What I wanted to say (well, shout and scream at him that is) was that I thought he was a psychopath and he would not get away with this, but the reality was, I couldn’t.

Friday 21^st December 2007

My eyes wanted to close tight and my body wanted to shut down. One of my best friends ever was lying on my double bed, legs out straight and her neck slit. Oh my poor dog. No, no, no; this cannot be happening! This is just a bad dream and I will wake up in a minute and everything will be fine. I would have pinched myself if I hadn’t been trembling so violently.

Then I looked to the floor and saw Sarah. Oh my God Sarah, what has he done to you? She was sitting against the wall with her knees pulled up to her chest. Her hands were tied together in front of her knees and she could barely move bar stamping her feet and throwing her head. Then I knew why the cries for help had sounded so muffled; he had gagged her too.

I saw the monster move forward towards me. I swung round to face the tormentor and thought to myself how familiar he looked, but this was no time for thinking.

“You bastard,” I screamed, “What the fuck have you done to my dog and my best friend?” I really didn’t care if he wanted to finish me off right then and there, but I was going to fight this.

“Now, now Lucy, there’s no need to speak to me in that manner.” He replied, his voice monotone and calm.

“Oh yeah, and why the hell shouldn’t I? Look at what you’ve done to us, just look?”

“And......” he answered whilst absent minded-ly flicking his fingernails.

“And......and? Oh my God, you’re a monster! You are going to pay for this you sicko!” I lunged forward remembering that I’d still got the nail scissors hidden in my hands. As I raised my right arm above my head to bring the scissors down into his chest, he blocked my arm sharply and we both watched the scissors fall to the carpeted floor.

In an instant we both made a grab for the scissors and on this occasion, I didn’t win my prize. In the second it had taken me to stoop down to grab the scissors, he had grabbed my right arm and twisted it behind my back. I was face down on the floor and I thought he was going to break my arms, the pressure was so great.

He pulled me up from the floor roughly and dragged me so that I was sitting right next to Sarah. She glared at me with tears in her eyes and I could see fear. The monster ripped one of my pillow cases sharply and tied the slither that was left in his hands around my head and through my mouth. I was now gagged and matched Sarah. The remaining fabric was used to tie my hands together in front of my knees, again in a mirror image of my friend.

He stood back to admire his handiwork. He looked pleased with himself; a smirk playing across his face.

“Right then ladies; let’s get this show on the road!”

Friday 21^st December 2007

When the realisation hit me that my dog wasn’t barking and jumping around me playfully as she always does when I get home from work, I flipped.

I launched myself off the sofa, yanked open the hallway door, which only moments before had been left wide open to emptiness, and I flew up the stairs. All was quiet so I decided that if there was an intruder in the house, they’d be ready to do their worst now because I scaled those stairs sounding like a herd of elephants on the loose.

The bathroom door was open; nothing suspicious there. It was never closed even when there was someone convening it. The doors to the spare room and my bedroom however, were closed. In most circumstances this would have seemed quite normal, but the wind’s been put up you, it poses an altogether scarier prospect. Do I open each door and face it or do I just make a harsh retreat from my home and.....and...do what? I decided on the former. I inhaled a deeply and counted to three (obviously in my head) and gripped the door handle to the spare room tightly in my hand and, whoosh, I threw the door open.

The lava lamp on the bedside table was casting an alien green glow around the room. This was totally wrong; I never leave anything switched on and by the way the liquid shapes were moving within their glass home, it looked like it had been on for a fair few hours.

By this time I was totally freaked out. I could feel and hear my heart thumping in my chest, practically trying to burst through its ribbed caging. I only hoped to God that the “intruder” (if there actually was one in the house) couldn’t hear it too.

There was only one room to go; my bedroom. I was shaking like a leaf in a strong breeze and no matter how hard I was trying; I just could not control this involuntary seizure.

Just as I finally mustered the courage to lay one finger on the door handle, I heard a muffled sound; maybe that of a voice trying to call out and then a “shshhhh!” Oh my God, what the hell was I to do? What if it was my Sarah in there? What if she was in pain? I knew I had to do something and I needed to do it quick.

I shot back into the open bathroom and grabbed a pair of nail scissors from the window ledge. Suddenly I felt my fear being pushed to one side by adrenaline, which was now coursing through my body. I was Superwoman! I was going to save my best friend! I was going to beat and stab the living daylights out of this stranger. It’s funny what adrenaline can do to you.

My right hand grasped onto the door handle. This was my chance; my chance to do something amazing. I heard another muffled murmur just as I slammed the door open. Adrenaline left my body as quickly as it had arrived when my eyes glanced at the horror before me.

Friday 21^st December 2007

The house was pitch black when I entered so my first thought was that I’d been burgled (yes, my imagination is that overactive); on the other hand it could have simply been that the electric had cut off, which was highly more likely.

I blindly stumbled through my living room, my arms held out in front of me. I knew that I had almost reached the kitchen door as I could feel its gloss instead of the matt effect coverings of the walls.

Half of me was terrified that there would be some kind of intruder lurking behind the door; half of me was ready to fight! The door creaked and whined as I slowly pushed it open.

“Hello; anybody there?” I let out a quivering sigh when I received no retort. I feebly felt round the wall and managed to place my hands on the door to the cupboard that encased the fuse box and gas meter. My 5ft 4” frame struggled to stretch up to flick the fuse back but after a moment of exertion, the ground floor to my home became awash with light.

My eyes scanned around the kitchen to see if anything seemed untoward or out of place; fine. I walked into the living room and did the same; absolutely fine.

I slumped onto my sofa and for the first time in years, my home didn’t feel like home. It was empty and eerily quiet. That’s when it suddenly dawned on me; where was my dog? I knew my housemate, Sarah, wouldn’t be back for at least another couple of hours, but where on earth was my dog?

Please note that this story is rated PG13

What happens when the lights go out?

Lucy soon found out one Friday evening on her return from work? What do you do when you find your dog dead and your best friends’ life is in jeopardy?

Starts Friday 21st December 2007 and runs through the Christmas holiday period.

Characters

Lucy: Age 28, housemate to Sarah. Medium build, 5ft 4” tall; black hair with red streak.

Sarah: Age 25, housemate to Lucy. Small build, 5ft 6” tall; brown bobbed hair and tattoo on left wrist.

Intruder: This character will remain a mystery to begin with, but you’ll know soon enough!

I barely slept on the Wednesday evening knowing that Taking Back Sunday were going to ROCK The Astoria in London the following evening. My best friend, Sarah, was just as excited as me.

My husband and I met up with Sarah and her brother, Leighton, in Covent Garden and after having a look round Forbidden Planet, decided that we’d pass time before the gig by having a few jars in The Marquis. Then at 6pm, we made our way to the legendary Astoria. The queue that had formed outside had wrapped round the building already, but we stood in line and waited and waited and………………..

At 6:45pm, the queue started to move and the buzz was hitting a peak. We got to the entrance bang on 7pm and shuffled inside. We ordered drinks at the bar and made our way to the floor. My husband and Leighton decided to stand back whilst Sarah and I made our way right to the front.

The support band, This City, were fantastic. We’d never heard of them before, but they kicked off the nights proceedings with some great tunes and got everyone in the crowd bouncing. They really did start the night off well, but let’s face it; there was only one band that this crowd wanted to see and hear – Taking Back Sunday!

The interval seemed to go on forever, but Sarah and I managed to keep our places albeit without much choice; we were squashed together like sardines (which was quite nice actually 'cus she's just AMAZING!). Then, lights out and oh dear God, we were pushed right to the front and Taking Back Sunday hit the stage.

Forgive me, but I don’t recall the exact play list. I never remember them mainly due to the fact that I’m always far too busy rocking and on this occasion trying to defend both myself and Sarah from getting smashed in the head and face by wayward crowd surfers - bless ‘em. What I can tell you is that they played a blinding set which included the phenomenal ‘Liar’, ‘Twenty-Twenty Surgery’, the massive crowd pleaser, ‘MakeDamnSure’ (cue the crowd going crazy), ‘Miami’ and ‘My Blue Heaven’ amongst others from the Louder Now album.

My favourite songs were from the earlier albums, ‘Where You Want To Be’ and ‘Tell All Your Friends’. They performed ‘Number Five With A Bullet’, ‘You’re So Last Summer’, ‘Where You Want To Be’, ‘Tell All Your Friends’, ‘You’re So Last Summer’, ‘The Blue Channel’ and so many more. They even slipped in a cover of ‘She’s So Heavy’ by The Beatles; perfect!

This was the fourth time I’ve seen Taking Back Sunday and they have never failed to impress me. I have to say that I was gutted when Fred Macherino left the band, but Matt Fazi amazed me. His voice was superb on backing and he played his guitar like he’d been in TBS forever; something that I thought would never happen since Fred departed. Just shows how well the band has gelled with Matt and vice versa.

Sarah and I ended up at the back towards the end of the gig; not by choice mind you! We were hot, knackered and sweaty but totally elated. We said our goodbyes (Sarah and Leighton were travelling back the same night, whereas we were staying over) and slowly made our way out to get some fresh air. I pleaded with my husband to wait out back to see if we could meet the band, which thankfully he agreed to.

We saw This City come out and they waited around chatting to friends. After about an hour of further waiting, I saw Eddie come out holding a pillow. No-one else seemed to notice, so I walked up to him to ask if he could sign my ticket and have a photo taken with me. He explained that he just wanted to pop his belongings in the tour bus then he’d come back to me. You know what? He did.

Then, in exact order, my husband and I met Matt Fazi, Mark and the great Adam Lazarra. Unfortunately, Matt Rubano had already left the venue to be with his girlfriend.  They spent time talking to us; they didn’t try and get away quickly. I had my photos taken with them and they each signed my ticket.

Adam Lazarra was the last band member we met. He almost got away unnoticed, but not by me. We spent the most time talking to him and he gladly had his photo taken with both my husband and I. We then left the band to deal with the throngs of screaming girls and guys and made our way back to the hotel.

I’d like to say a huge thanks to the guys from Taking Back Sunday for giving us such an awesome night and allowing us to spend some time with them. You were amazing, can’t wait for the next gig!

***************************************************************************************************************************

Check out the pics on my profile

Jake’s P.O.V (Halloween night; Friday, 28^th October 1995)

I’ve waited so long for this moment. Sophie and I have finally realised our true feelings for each other and it feels so good. There’s only one thing that taints it; I mean there can only be so long before the sincere love I feel for her will become selfish and flawed. I could have turned her at that moment but I didn’t. I felt guilty. I longed to feel her warm blood rushing through my mouth; I longed to taste her. I need to stop thinking like this; it’s doing me no good.

We finally got to Lucas’s front door. It was actually quite quiet for a party. I knocked twice on the door and Sophie and I waited on the step. Finally, Lucas came to the door. He looked resplendent in black velvet trousers and a red silk shirt.

“Well hello you two, I thought you were never going to make it,” he actually seemed glad that we had arrived.

“We wouldn’t have missed a Halloween party for the world; you should know me by now Lucas?”

“I’m glad to hear it. Come you two, let’s go into the kitchen and grab a drink.” He sashayed into the kitchen and stopped at the fridge. “Well, what’s your poison Jake?”

“Whatever you’ve got my friend, but I prefer beer and Sophie likes vodka.” A nod of agreement by Sophie confirmed this.

“Your wish is my command Jake.”

I was starting to feel a little uncomfortable with this friendly banter but I didn’t let on.

Sophie was looking around to see if she knew anyone in the room. I looked at her and felt proud that she had come to this party with me. I know we’ve always been the closest of friends, but this was another league all together. I watched her back and she watched mine but for me it was far more than that. I wanted her to need me even though I knew she was far too independent for that. I knew when we kissed earlier that she felt the exact same thing as me; it meant the world to me and so much more.

Lucas turned up with a bottle of Bud for me and vodka and orange juice for Sophie. I was gasping for my drink and when I felt the cold glass touch my lips, I felt relief. Sophie said thanks to Lucas and turned to me.

“Well, here’s to the first date then Jake,” she said as she raised her glass to clink my bottle, “may there be many, many more.”

“Here, here.” I agreed and I really hoped at that moment that there would be many more.

I noticed Lucas and Eleanor keeping a very close eye on us; it was quite unnerving. I needed the toilet, so I asked Soph to look after my drink and look after herself. I was worried that Lucas and Eleanor were after Sophie. I just wanted her to be safe.

I walked to the top of the stairs and found the bathroom. I opened the door, stepped in and shut it behind me. I was getting ready to do what I needed to do, when the door flew open.

“Hey Jake; you need a hand with that?” Eleanor obviously didn’t know to knock before she entered.

“I’m fine thank you. Now, would you please just go – I’m trying to pee here.”

“I know exactly what you’re doing Jake; I just wanted a bit of a chat.” She really picked her moments.

“Well, fire away then. I haven’t got all night.” There was no way that she was going to dictate to me again.

“Sophie’s a beautiful young lady isn’t she?” she asked, but I knew something more was coming, “Whatever is she doing with a guy like you? You’re ridiculous and pathetic and you’ll never get her to love you, especially as you’re the way you are.”

I tried not to let her get to me, but it was proving extremely difficult.

“The way I am; are you fucking serious?” I was practically seeing red, “You made me this way; I had no choice! Don’t talk to me like I’m some leper; you’re no better than me. In actual fact, I’d say that you’re worse. You are the lowest of the low. You couldn’t just keep being a vampire to yourself; you had to turn me, an innocent, into the lowlife that you’ve become. Don’t ever think I’ll even come close to forgiving you; hell will freeze over before that.” I was utterly furious.

“Ooh, have a hit a raw nerve Jake?”

“Just get out of here Eleanor!” anger filled me whole body and if she didn’t get out now I was afraid I was going to do something awful, “I’m going to get Sophie and we’re leaving. I won’t stand for this shit any longer; I haven’t come to a party to get insulted.” I zipped my fly, flushed the toilet and headed over to the sink to wash my hands.

“Ok, I’m going Jake. I’m glad we’ve had this little chat. At least we all know where we stand now.”

With that, Eleanor left the bathroom. I stood and looked at my opaque reflection in the mirror. What did Sophie really want with me? Maybe Eleanor was right, again. I have nothing to offer Sophie. Who would want a vampire? Hell, who could trust a vampire?

I slowly shuffled down the stairs and entered the living room. It was heaving with people all looking quite merry, but one person stood out from the crowd like a sore thumb. Sophie was standing or should I say, leaning against the far wall. Lucas was standing practically on top of her. She looked pretty drunk and Lucas loved it. I didn’t want to draw too much attention to myself so I quietly made my way over to them.

“Come on Soph, you look like you’ve had enough now. What’s say we go back to your house and just chill out?” I said as I gently took her right arm.

“Oh, but Jake, this is still my first drink and the party’s not even in full swing yet. Please can we stay?” she looked at me with puppy dog eyes.

“That’s still you’re first drink?” I was worried now as Sophie never got drunk this quickly, “Well, if that’s the case then I think you’re drink’s been spiked Hun, so I really think it’s best if I get you home now!”

Lucas obviously sensed the urgency in my voice. He looked straight at me.

“I hope you’re not suggesting that I or any of my guests have done something like that?”

“Well, I really don’t know Lucas. It wouldn’t surprise me at all. We’re going now whether you like it or not so please don’t try to stop us.” I was getting more and more anxious and wanted to get the hell out of here for Sophie’s sake more than anything else.

“I think Sophie would like to stay, wouldn’t you Sophie?” he looked at her with an almost hypnotising stare.

“I will not be coming home with you Jake; I’m enjoying myself too much. You go and I promise I’ll phone you when I get back home, ok?” Stubbornness was Sophie’s middle name.

“I’m not happy one bit about this Sophie. I’ve always promised your Mom that I would look after you and you’re making it very difficult for me to do that tonight. I’m not going to force you to come home with me, but please phone me if you need me to come and get you or anything. I won’t rest until you’re back home safe and sound.”

I kissed her on the cheek, “Please be careful sugar, ok?” I looked at Lucas who was grinning like the Cheshire cat, “And you; if you dare lay one finger on her, believe me, you’ll regret for the rest of your immortal life. Do you understand me?”

“Yeah, yeah, ok Jake, I understand completely.” He rolled his eyes like a child who’d just been told off for bad behaviour.

It took every fibre of my body to get the courage to walk out of that house and leave Sophie. As I went through the front door, I looked back and she was talking animatedly to Lucas. He caught my gaze and looked up. He waved me goodbye with an evil smirk on this face. He tapped Sophie to turn around. She smiled and waved at me too.

Jesus, why am I doing this? Why am I leaving her with this lunatic, Lucas? What kind of friend would do this? All these questions were running round and round through my brain as I walked home. I was trying to find answers in the cold night air, but there were none. I just hoped to God that she would be safe and I hoped she would remember to phone me.

There’s nothing I can do now but just sit and wait.

Sophie’s P.O.V (Halloween night; Friday, 28^th October 1995)

I started getting ready for Lucas and Eleanor’s Halloween party at 6pm whilst Jake was in the bathroom prepping and preening. I decided, as tradition dictates, that black was the way to go tonight. I pulled out a black vest top, black skinny jeans, and my knee length Doctor Marten’s and I was pretty much sorted apart from make-up.

I found out my make-up bag and was rifling through trying to find my black eye-liner but it had escaped yet again. I sat myself down in front of my make up table, and looked in the mirror. I looked tired and a little drawn which I guess was because I was anxious about this party tonight; I hadn’t got much sleep last night through worrying about it.

I started to apply my pale foundation to my already pale face when Jake appeared behind me. His reflection in the mirror was faded and almost see-through in comparison to my solid one. The literature I’d read since Jake had been turned said that vampire’s have little or no visible reflection at all, but I wasn’t expecting it to be honest so it came as quite a shock.

Jake seemed a little miserable, but he looked amazing. He was dressed in black leather flared trousers and a plain black t-shirt. His curly hair was washed and looking darker than it’s ever done before. A black velvet jacket was draped over his left shoulder.

“Well, what do you think Soph?” He looked down at his feet.

“Honestly; you look amazing. You look different yet not. It’s the best I’ve seen you look for quite some time now Jake. What about me?”

“I suppose you’ll do! Ha ha ha, no, you look great too sugar.”

“You haven’t seen my black eye-liner have you Jake? It was in my make-up bag, but I remember you using it the other week and it’s not been put back. Where’re you stashing it?”

“Oh, sorry Soph, it’s in the bathroom cabinet. I’ve just tried to use it myself but I can’t see myself enough to apply it. I’ll go get it for you.”

“Well, go and get it and I’ll do it for you ok Hun?”

I watched Jake shuffle back out of my bedroom with his head bent low. After a brief minute, he was back in the room clutching my eyeliner.

“Come, sit here Jake,” I said patting the chair that I’d just vacated.

Jake sat down and I stood up in front of him. We fell silent as his beautiful brown eyes looked up at me. I stood there looking down at him in total silence. I couldn’t draw my eyes away from him. Something was happening, it was almost as if he was holding me there, but I really didn’t mind.

“Look up Hun,” I broke the silence and bent down to his face. How I managed to pull his bottom eyelid down to pencil a black line on it, I do not know; he just looked wonderful, but I did. I stood back up straight to make sure I hadn’t smudged him, and then bent back down again to do the same to his right eye. He stopped me and held my right hand. He took the eyeliner from my hand and then held both my hands together. I was slightly embarrassed by all of this even though I had no reason to be.

“Soph, please stop for a second and just look at me,” his voice almost a whisper, “You know, I never realised just how beautiful you are until now. It’s not like I don’t see you practically every day, but there’s just something in the way you look tonight. I don’t know what it is or why I’m feeling like this; maybe it’s because you’ve been so amazing through all this vampire shit. You’ve always been there for me and I think I’ve taken that for granted a little.”

I stood there in utter silence and was close to picking my chin up off the floor, when he bought his hands up to my hips and softly held them there.

“I don’t quite know how to say this to you Soph, so I’ll just try and come straight out with it; I think I’m falling for you. No, scratch that, I’ve crash landed with a bump. Oh jeez, shit; I LOVE YOU!

Cue more stunned silence. I was in shock I think because I tried to speak and nothing would come out of the gaping hole that had replaced my mouth.

“I’m so sorry Soph. I knew I shouldn’t have said anything,” he started deflated; “I just hope this won’t ruin our friendship. Oh shit, what have I done? Sophie, please say something?”

He stood up to meet my shocked expression. It took about a minute or so of just looking at each other face to face, when I finally managed to lose the ‘vacant stare’ and look directly into his eyes.

“Do you mean every word Jake?” I still quite couldn’t believe what he’s just said.

“Of course I do; without a doubt!” he confirmed with enthusiasm.

I gently cupped my hands around his face and drew near to him so that we were nose to nose. I held this position for a second or two until I went very slightly cross-eyed, so I pulled back a little and then went for it; I kissed his lips softly. I pulled away and looked at him. A silent tear was running down his left cheek. He stroked my face and then pulled me to him. His hand went round my back and up to the back of my head and then, that was it, my kiss was reciprocated. I felt life and love in this kiss; it was pure euphoria.

He pulled away from me and gently pushed my hair from my face.

“Come on then Soph, we’ve got a party to get to.”

“I’m with you all the way Jake.”

Sophie’s P.O.V (Last Monday of October 1995)

I always hated Mondays anyway, but having heard the news from Jake that Eleanor and Lucas were planning to turn me into a blood sucking creature of the night, quite honestly, I was terrified. What terrified me the most though was the fact that Eleanor and Lucas seemed so calm about it. I bumped into them on the way to Art class, and they were just so “normal”. How can they be like that around me?

I decided to not to say anything; I nodded a hello and went on my way. I walked a few steps and I could honestly feel their eyes boring in to the back of my head. I could hear them speaking to me even though there weren’t actually speaking; it was as if they were in my mind urging me to turn round and face them.

My feet decided they would shuffle round and I met their gaze. They seemed to glide up to me until their faces were practically on mine.

“Uhhmmm, do you mind?” I flinched away from them.

Eleanor replied with a hint of amusement, “Why, what have we done to upset you Sophie?”

“You haven’t upset me at all”, I shot back slightly aggressively, “but I don’t like how close you are to my face. You know, ‘this is my personal space; this is your personal space’ and all that crap.”

Eleanor and Lucas retreated backwards marginally when Lucas piped up.

“Anyway, now that we’ve given you some ‘personal space’, will you just calm down and listen to what we have to say? It will interest both yourself and Jake hopefully.” He folded his arms against his chest like a child would do when they’ve had a tantrum.

“Ok Lucas, fire away”, I said agitated; I was already ten minutes late for Art class, “but please make it quick, I’m kind of running late.” I tapped my watch to emphasise this even more.

“Dear oh dear, what an impatient little student we have here Eleanor? Do you think we better tell her now?” Lucas was enjoying this little waiting game immensely.

“Oh, go on then Lucas, she’s obviously a very busy lady and we’d hate her to get in trouble because of us.”

“Right, well here we are then;” said Lucas with a sigh of boredom, “Eleanor and I are having a Halloween party at my house. There are only a select few that have been invited, which obviously includes you and Jake. We really hope you can come as we think it’s time to clear the air between us. We know we’ve been a little distant with you, so this is kind of an apology as well as a great excuse to get together and get drunk. What do you say?”

Shit, what could I say; if I said no they would hound me for days, possibly even weeks; if I said yes then they would have their perfect chance to get me alone, drain me of my much needed blood and turn me. Shit, shit, shit; think on your feet Soph.

“Yeah, th-that sounds just wonderful. I’ll drop by Jakes later and let him know the great news”, I said trying to shake the quiver from my voice, “I assume its tonight?”

“Party, on a school night”, sarcasm tainted Lucas’ voice, “you must be kidding. No, it’s going to be on Friday around 7pm. Hey, you and Jake could even stay over if you wanted to; we’ve got room for two little ones.”

“Friday at 7pm it is then. Wild horses couldn’t keep me away!” I said far too enthusiastically.

I wondered if they could smell my fear, but obviously not as they both winked at me and turned on their heel. They seemed to glide again and were at the far end of the corridor before I knew it.

I stood outside Art class daydreaming for what seemed like hours, which was until Mrs Rogers came out and managed to pull me from my trance just in time to start my still life exercise.

An hour and a half finally passed. I was tired and slightly agitated after my run in with the vampire duo.

“Right class, could you please put your pencils down now. I’ll be coming round to each of you to check your work”, Mrs Rogers exclaimed authoritatively, “Stand back from your easels.”

Mrs Rogers went round the class in concentrated silence nodding and shaking her head as she perused each of my fellow students work. She finally came to my easel and she stopped dead in her tracks. She was shocked and speechless and I didn’t know why, that is until I looked ahead at my easel.

Sophie’s P.O.V (October 1995)

I’m so glad Jake and I left JB’s when we did because the vodka I’d been drinking was really starting to do its job. Hell, I know I’m not legal to drink, but I’m lucky, I look older than my 16 years. My parents and Jake’s have always said that as long as we keep them informed as to when we reach our destination and when we are making our way back, they will pretty much let us go anywhere to a degree.

Jake’s been acting a little strange since we left the club; I just don’t know what’s eating him. I think it’s got something to do with Eleanor and Lucas being there, but he’s keeping his cards close to his chest on this one.

We were about half an hour from home when he just stops in his tracks and said that he’s had a great night and doesn’t it to end; could he stay over. I didn’t see that as a problem, but I needed to check with my folks first.

“Hi Mom, it’s Sophie; I know it’s late notice, but would it be ok for Jake to stay over tonight?”

“I can’t see it being a problem at all as long as he knows he’ll be on the sofa.”

“Christ Mom, do you have to?”

“Well, I know what you teenagers are like; you may have the best intentions in the world, but when you’ve had a good night and a few drinks inside you it’s a different story.”

“Yeah, right, whatever Mom. We’ll be back soon ok?”

“Ok darling, see you in a bit.”

God my Mom can be so embarrassing sometimes. She knows that there’s nothing going on between me and Jake in that way, but sometimes we’re that close that we might as well be together. He’s the only boy who’s actually loved me for who I am. He’s never judged me and he’s always been there for me at the drop of a hat. We’ve known each other for so long that to lose him would be like losing a limb.

“There, sorted Jake. You better phone your Mom and tell her what’s happening, right?”

“I’m on it Soph. “

We carried on walking while Jake phoned his Mom. After a few minutes we were on my street. I could see that the kitchen lights were on and I could just see my Mom poking the head through the blinds. She must have seen us as she darted away from the window as quickly as anything.

We got to the front door.

“Come on in you two. Jake, I’ve made the sofa up for you ok Hun. I’m going up to bed now, so you enjoy your night and try not to stay up too late will you?”

“We’ll try,” said Jake and I in unison.

I switched on the TV and grabbed a couple of beers from the fridge. I found out some nachos and salsa and put everything on a tray and took it into the living room.

Jake had already made himself comfortable and cosy on his makeshift bed for the night and patted the spot next to him for me to sit down. I got everything organised around us and realised that the TV was total crap. I found out my favourite film of all time, The Crow, and I put into the video player.

“Oh hell Soph, I know how much you love this film and I do too, but have we got to watch it again?”

“Have you got any better idea’s smarty pants?”

“Well, as a matter of fact, I do. I want to talk to you Soph and its pretty important so shall we just put some music on low and have a chat?”

“Oh well, if we must.”

I managed to find out some CD’s and put them in my 5 disc changer. I pressed the shuffle button and let the music do the business. Music is my life; I’d be nothing without it.

“Ok Jake, what do you want to talk about?”

Jake shifted me round to face him and looked at me like we were about never meet again; there was longing in his eyes and it made me feel quite uncomfortable.

“Shit, look Soph, there’s not an easy way to say this to you, so I’ll try and make it as easy as possible. You remember when I was in the toilet at the club and I was taking forever; I hadn’t disappeared you know. I was in there when Eleanor and Lucas just waltzed right in. I was shocked to see Eleanor in there to say the least, but we got chatting anyhow.”

“She apologised to me about everything that had happened between us and I will be brutally honest, but the conversation got round to them suggesting that I should turn you.”

“Jesus Jake, what the hell. You’re really scaring me now. Stop it.”

“Oh Sophie, please let me finish? I basically told them that there wouldn’t be a snowflakes chance in hell that I would ever put you through what I had to. Do you think I could ever do that to you, honestly?”

“Well, no, not really. Sorry Jake, but you’ve been acting so weird lately that nothing would shock me with you.”

“I just wanted to tell you that, that’s all, but there’s one more thing I think you should know. Even though you know I would never do anything to hurt you, I’ve still got this nagging feeling that if I won’t turn you then they will. They didn’t really say anything of the sort out loud, but I know how their minds work and that’s why I wanted to tell you in advance. I know I can’t be with you 24 hours a day, but with the time that I am able to spend with you, I promise that I won’t let anything hurt you.”

“Oh my God Jake; are you serious? This cannot be happening. So basically what you’re saying is I’ve got to wait around until one of them takes a chunk out of my neck?”

“Well, hopefully they won’t get to you in order give you a vampire makeover, but if they try anything nasty, I’ll be there, right?”

“Right.”

I knew it; I knew it. So that’s what was eating Jake, but Christ Almighty, I didn’t realise it was this bad. Let’s just hope I don’t bump into Eleanor or Lucas while I’m on my own or I could be vampire bait.

We both sat back on the sofa and put the duvet over us and resumed our 100^th (yes, it’s that many) showing of the Crow.

I woke up in the morning still fully clothed and on the sofa cuddled up next to Jake. I looked up at Jake. He looked so peaceful and contented which is probably because he got a lot off his chest last night and as much as it freaked me out, I felt relieved that he now felt at ease even if were only for a little while. I quietly thought to myself, you know, this is what friends are for.

Jake’s P.O.V (October 1995)

I’m at a loss as to what to do now. Do I tell Sophie about the conversation I had with Eleanor or do I just carry on as if nothing has happened? I know that if I tell Sophie, she’ll run a mile, but if I don’t, anything could happen while my back is turned. I don’t want her to be scared of me and I’m afraid that might happen if I just come out one day and casually tell her that you know what, Eleanor is thinking about making you one of us Sophie; welcome to the club!

I’ll just let it ride for the time being. I don’t want to cause a scene here, so I’ll wait until we leave the club and I’m sure I’ll find the right moment then.

“Soph, are you ready to go now?”

“Yup, ok then Jake. I suppose it’s getting late and we’ve had a few drinks, so we’ll make our way yeah?”

“Okey dokey then Soph. Come on, let’s get out of here.”

We were about half way from our homes now and I still hadn’t plucked up the courage to tell her what’s been going on. What the hell is wrong with me; she’s my best friend and I need to keep her safe. The only way I can do that is just by telling her.

“Nearly home then Soph?”

“Yeah Jake, why do you ask, you know we’re nearly home?”

“Oh it's nothing, really. I was just thinking that I didn’t really want to go home tonight. I’ve had such a good night and I don’t want it to end. Can I stay at yours tonight?”

“I’m sure it won’t be an issue, but I’ll tell you what, I’ll just phone my Mom in advance to check if it’s ok.”