WHISPERS
OF
DEATH
Monday, October 19, 2015
7:32 AM
It was another dreary day in Gloomville, Montana. Dark
clouds crept across the sky as a cold autumn breeze
whistled through the leafless trees surrounding Maple High
School. As students slowly filtered into the building, a
young man with messy brown hair stood at the front gates.
His name was Evan Hawthorne, a sixteen-year-old junior
in a gray hooded sweatshirt and a pair of black jeans. As
he made his way to the building, tension mounted within him
as dead leaves blew across the ground. It was his first day
at the school, as his family had moved from Long Beach,
California only recently. As he approached the front
entrance, a thin, friendly-looking girl stopped in front of
him.
Well, now. Youre a new face, she said. Evan looked
over to her.
Yeah. We just moved here last week, he replied.
Thought so, she said, soon looking to a slip of
paper in his hand. Looking for your first class, huh?
Lets take a look, she said, suddenly sidling up next to
him. Evan froze, taken aback as the girl peered down at his
class itinerary from mere inches away. He blinked, heart
suddenly pounding in his chest as he looked to the
attractive girl before him, the scent of her perfume
filling the air as the breeze again picked up, causing the
girl to hold her hair from her eyes.
Oh my gosh! she said, suddenly looking back to him.
We have the same first period class! What are the odds?
she asked with a smile.
Wow. Must be a small school, Evan replied.
Yeah. Theres only about two hundred or so students.
Im Claire, by the way, she said.
Evan, he replied.
Well, want me to show you the way? You dont want to
be late on your first day, do you? Claire asked, soon
escorting Evan into the building.
Claire Fairweather was a pretty young junior of
average height wearing a stylish red fleece pullover and a
black miniskirt that matched her thigh high stockings and
black loafers. She had light brown hair and green eyes and
wore a red hairband across her head. As the two walked
through the halls, Claire and a girl dressed in all black
bumped into each other upon turning a corner.
Ugh. Excuse you? Claire said. The girl said nothing
in reply, shooting her a brief glance before continuing on
her way. Damn creep. Just look at how shes dressed,
Claire said venomously, arriving at a classroom soon after.
She then turned around, smiling at Evan. Here we are, she
said.
Thanks, Claire, he replied.
Dont mention it. We dont do assigned seats here, so
just take a seat anywhere, Claire said before heading to
her usual seat near a group of friends. Evan looked around,
heading to an empty desk near the back of the room. After
several moments, the bell rang, and the teacher began
taking roll. As he neared the end of the list, one final
student entered the class, heading to the back and taking
an empty desk next to Evan.
Late again, Miss Rozenthal? Youre making this quite
a habit as of late, the teacher said.
Sorry, the girl replied in a voice no higher than a
whisper.
Thats detention for you again, young lady, the
teacher remarked. The girl said nothing, however, sulking
back into her chair as the room looked over to her.
She was a peculiar looking girl with straight black
hair down to her lower back wearing a white ladies trench
coat and matching beanie with tight black pants that
matched her gloves and heeled leather boots. She was
unusually lanky for a girl, standing almost as high as Evan
who stood five feet ten inches tall, and she hid nearly
half her face beneath a black silk scarf around her neck.
The rest of the class went by with little ado, and an
hour later, the class let out. As the students gathered
their things, Evan looked over to the girl who had come in
late, suddenly noticing a bruise peeking out from beneath
her scarf. She looked over to him, hastily readjusting her
scarf before hurrying off. Evan paused, a sick feeling
suddenly washing over him as he began wondering how she
could have gotten such an injury. As he headed toward the
door, Claire came over to him.
Well, there goes your first class at Maple High. What
do think of our little school so far? she asked.
Oh, its fine. It doesnt seem too different from my
last school, he replied, eyeing the girl with the bruise
as she left the room. Claire looked back.
Oh, dont mind her. Thats just Willow. She comes in
late a lot and never talks to anyone. Shes sort of the
class weirdo, Claire said.
I see..., Evan replied, still concerned about the
wound on her neck.
So, what class do you have next? Claire asked. Evan
looked to his paper.
It says... Mister Wright?
Oh, him? I have that douche for my fourth class. I
dont have time to take you there, but I can give you
directions, she said, telling Evan the way there.
Thanks again, Claire. Youve been a big help, he
said. Claire paused, shyly looking away moments later.
...Its okay. Well, gotta go. Catch ya later, she
said, heading off to her next class.
Evan did the same, following Claires directions
before finding his second period class. It passed with
little fanfare, and soon, third period rolled around. This
time, Evan was on his own finding it, and accordingly,
entered it just before the late bell rang. He quickly
looked around, spotting an empty desk at the side of the
room. He headed over to it, taking a seat as the teacher
entered the room and closed the door. As class began, Evan
looked to his left, noticing a familiar looking girl
sitting next to him, soon recognizing her as the same
student Claire had bumped into earlier.
As the teacher took roll, Evan learned that her name
was Natalie Lockett, a curious yet attractive young woman
in distinctly Gothic attire, wearing a dress that was black
from top to bottom and covered almost her entire body. Her
hair was the same color, tied into a high ponytail that
elegantly hung down all around her head, covering her left
eye entirely. The teacher then stood up.
Alright, everyone. Take out your history books and
turn to page forty-two, he said, suddenly realizing Evan
didnt have one yet. Oh, dear. Im afraid we havent got
any extras, either. Im afraid youll just have to share
with someone. Natalie, would you mind pushing your desks
together and sharing with our new student until we can find
him a book of his own? the teacher asked. Natalie remained
silent, looking over to Evan as Evan did the same to her.
Sorry, he said quietly, slowly pushing his desk next
to hers. Natalie remained silent, opening her book and
sliding it half onto Evans desk. The two sat in awkward
silence as the lesson began, occasionally stealing glances
at one another.
Today, well be discussing the Goths of ancient
Germany, the teacher said. Evan paused, slightly looking
over to Natalie. She looked back at him.
Dont, she said. Evan smiled, also detecting a faint
look of amusement on Natalies face as the class continued
on, concluding an hour later.
Thanks, Natalie. Sorry you were forced to share your
book with me, Evan said, moving his desk back.
Its alright. It wasnt your fault, she replied.
Evan then looked to the itinerary.
Next is lunch, is it? I dont even know where to go,
Evan said with embarrassment. Natalie looked over to him.
I..., she said hesitantly. I can show you the way,
she concluded shyly.
Oh, dont trouble yourself, Natalie. Youve helped me
enough for one day, Evan replied.
Its no trouble. Im headed that way, anyway, she
said.
Yeah? Well alright then, if you really dont mind,
Evan said, the two leaving the room soon after. They made
their way down the hallways, soon approaching a large glass
door.
This is the cafeteria, Natalie said, entering along
with Evan.
Wow. So small, he remarked.
Its a small school. And besides, hardly anyone ever
takes lunch in here, anyway. Most choose to loiter around
the courtyard or surrounding halls during the lunch break,
Natalie explained.
I see, Evan replied, moving down the short line
assembled before getting a sandwich and a bag of chips.
Natalie didnt take a tray, choosing instead to merely grab
an apple. Thats all youre getting? Evan asked.
Yes. This is all I ever get, she replied. Evan
slightly frowned, looking her over. Natalie was fairly
thin, so it came as little surprise to him that this was
all she was eating. The two then moved to a table, sitting
across from each other.
Oh... sorry. Did you want to be alone? Evan asked.
Natalie quietly looked up, shaking her head soon after.
Evan smiled. Im glad to hear it. The truth is, I dont
really know anyone here yet. Id probably have to have
lunch by myself if it wasnt for you, he said.
Youre new here?
Yeah. We just moved here from California last week.
Really? What made you move to Gloomville of all
places?
Good question. It was my sisters idea. Shes sort of
the head of the household, nowadays. To be honest, shes
not my real sister. I was adopted by the Hawthornes when I
was five. My mother has been in a bad state since father
divorced her, and sis thought moving to the countryside
would be good for her, Evan explained.
I see, Natalie replied.
What about you, Natalie? Have you always lived in
this town? Evan asked. Natalie suddenly fell silent,
slowly looking off to the side. Oh. Sorry... I dont mean
to pry, Evan said warily. Natalie looked back to him,
shaking her head.
No. Its alright. You told me about yourself, after
all. I guess its only right that I tell you a bit about
me. But..., she said, again hesitating.
Its alright. We can talk about something else if you
want, Evan said. Natalie frowned.
Im sorry. Its just... hard for me to discuss my
past, she said softly.
No need to apologize, Evan said. The two spent the
rest of the lunch break with each other, exchanging idle
pleasantries until it was time for fourth period. When the
bell rang, they left the cafeteria.
Thanks for lunch today, Natalie. Maybe we can do it
again, sometime? Evan said.
Sure, Natalie replied, the two parting ways soon
after.
Evan found his way to his fourth and fifth period
classes, both of which passed normally. When the sixth and
final class of the day came around, he entered the
classroom, surprised to see someone familiar as he entered.
Evan! We meet again. Looks like we have the same
first and last period classes, Claire said with a smile.
Oh, hey again, Claire. Yeah, looks that way, he
replied, taking a seat at the front row next to her. As the
room slowly filled with students, a tall, rough-looking
student entered the room.
Oh, no, Claire said under her breath.
What is it? Evan asked.
That guy... I was hoping he would be absent again, as
usual. Thats Todd, probably the schools worst bully. Even
the seniors are scared of him, Claire whispered. Evan
turned to him, watching as Todd scowled at the room from
the head of the class, suddenly noticing Evan.
...Who the hell are you? he asked.
Evan, he replied.
You new or somethin?
Yeah.
Thought so. Id have remembered a fuck face like
you, Todd said snidely. Evan remained silent, Claire
watching tensely from nearby as Todd sneered before making
his way to the desk at the far end of the room, the seat
furthest away from the teachers desk.
Soon after, the bell rang, and class started up. The
hour passed slowly as Todd continually disturbed and
interrupted the class before finally being written up and
sent to the front office by the teacher. As the final bell
sounded, the students gathered their belongings and
prepared to leave as Claire looked over to Evan.
Dont let him get to you. He does that to everyone.
You were right not to rise to his taunts, she said.
Its alright. Every school has at least one of his
kind, I suppose, Evan replied.
I wouldnt be so sure. Todd is a little different
from your average bully. Last year, he sent someone to the
hospital after getting into a fight with him. Theres even
rumors that he raped a girl, Claire explained grimly.
No way...! Evan said in surprise.
Seriously. Id steer clear of that guy if I were
you, she replied, heading out the door along with Evan.
Will do. Thanks for all your help today, Claire,
Evan said. Claire smiled.
No problem. Welcome to Maple High, Evan. Hope ya like
it! Claire said, waving goodbye before heading off with
two of her nearby friends.
Evan made his way through the hustle and bustle of the
halls, heading to the gates and leaving the school. His
house was within walking distance, so he didnt take the
bus or a car. As he traipsed through the grass next to the
road and made his way home, he reflected on the events of
the day, and on everyone he had met over the past several
hours.
Claire seemed like a very nice person, though when
Evan looked into her eyes, he somehow sensed a faint air of
sadness about her, almost as if she was doing her best to
suppress something deep inside herself. He was certainly
grateful for all the help she had given him, however, as he
would have certainly been lost on his first day without her
help.
Natalie was cold on the outside, but seemed like a
warm and friendly girl once she got to know someone. Evan
recalled their conversation over lunch, and found himself
intrigued by both her mysterious appearance as well as her
past which she seemed reluctant to talk about.
Todd, on the other hand, seemed like trouble. He
reminded Evan of another bully he had at his previous
school, though that one wasnt nearly as threatening as
Todd was, nor were the rumors surrounding him.
As Evan continued his trek home, the person he found
himself thinking about the most, however, was Willow. The
bruise on her neck troubled him to no end, and seemed to
indicate domestic abuse of some sort.
As Evan worriedly mulled over what could have happened
to her, he arrived at his house, a small, three bedroom
house tucked away in the woods. He approached the front
door, noticing his sisters bright red convertible parked
out front before entering the house. He looked around,
noticing the house was completely dark as he headed into
the kitchen, opening the fridge and taking out a bottle of
water. As he turned around, he jumped.
Yo, little bro, Evans sister Madilyn said casually.
Damn! Would you stop doing that...? Evan said in
annoyance.
Doing what?
Sneaking up on people.
Oh. Did I...? Sorry. Its not my fault youre a spaz,
though, Madilyn replied.
Madilyn Hawthorne was a sleek, slender beauty, twenty-
two years old and with wavy blond hair and blue eyes. She
wore a pair of tight fitting white pants and a matching
white belly shirt with a light, open lavender coat over it
and a pair of brown sandals. As Evan stood in the kitchen,
Madilyn looked to him.
So, how was your first day? she asked.
...Fine, he replied warily. Madilyn paused, tilting
her head at him.
Come now, Evan. Youre holding something back on me.
Tell big sis what it is, she said with a smirk. Evan
turned to her, hesitating before starting to speak.
...Well. During my first period class, I noticed this
girl next to me with a sizable bruise on her neck. I
couldnt tell for sure, but... it looked like domestic
violence of some sort, he explained worriedly.
I see. Sounds like her old man likes using her as his
personal punching bag, she replied.
Madilyn! Evan said.
Sorry, but its probably true. A girl that age with
marks like that is almost certainly taking a beating from
someone, most likely her father, she explained. She then
curiously looked to Evan. Why are you so interested,
anyway? Do you... like this girl? she asked with a grin.
What!? No! I mean... I guess shes kind of cute,
but... I dont even know her! Evan replied clumsily.
Madilyn shrugged.
Well, if youre that worried about her, you could
always just ask her yourself. I doubt shed tell you the
truth about it, though. Shed likely say something like she
ran into a car door or something. Shes unlikely to open up
to a stranger about something so personal, but if you got
to know her a bit, she may be willing to confide in you,
Madilyn said. As Evan paused in thought, Madilyn walked
past him, grabbing her keys from the kitchen counter.
Youre going out? he asked.
Yes. I may be gone for a few days. Theres some
leftover lasagna in there that should last you until I get
back. Also, its unlikely that shell leave her room, but
if mom should come out here for anything... keep an eye on
her, okay? Madilyn asked, leaving the room moments later.
Evan hesitantly followed her to the door.
...Where are you going? Evan asked warily. Madilyn
froze, looking to the floor before turning to him with
disdain.
Evan. How many times have I told you not to ask me
that? In case youve forgotten, dad left us, mom is a
basket case, and weve got bills to pay around here. Never
you mind where Im going, she said, leaving the house soon
after. Evan approached the window, watching as his sister
got in her car and drove off.
As her car vanished from sight, that old familiar
feeling of worry came over Evan as he stared silently out
the window. It was now over a year since their father had
walked out on them, leaving their mother for a woman half
her age. This left their mother a wreck and unable to work,
much less leave the house. Accordingly, Madilyn became the
sole breadwinner of the house, and was saddled with looking
after both their mother and Evan himself, something which
racked him with guilt. He wished he could do something to
help her out, and had offered on numerous occasions to drop
out of school and get a job. Madilyn refused, however,
insisting that he finish his education.
At first it was hard, as the family received no
financial support from their father. After awhile, though,
Madilyn seemed to make more and more money, eventually
saving up enough to not only buy herself a car, but to
purchase an entire house in a single payment. This begged
the question that had nagged at Evan for almost a year.
How was she making so much money...?
It was something he wanted to know from Madilyn more than
anything else, yet each time he would ask, she would become
defensive and quickly change the subject. He as well as
their mother were both concerned about what she was doing,
and both were at a loss at to what it could be. At the time
of the divorce, Madilyn was studying to become a
psychologist, but was soon forced to drop out in order to
support the family. She was highly athletic, and enjoyed
activities such as running and tennis, but neither of those
could possibly pay her the amount she seemed to be getting.
At the end of the day, Evan couldnt help but worry that
his sister was into something shady, and he cringed to
think what it could be. Madilyn was indeed a beautiful
young blond, and he worried that she could possibly be
engaged in dancing or even prostitution. Evan knew Madilyn
as a person of integrity, however, and doubted that either
of those were the case.
If not that, though, then what? What could it possibly
be that was earning her so much cash? It was a question
that continued to haunt Evan day after day. He sighed,
walking away from the window and back to his room.
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
7:00 AM
Evan awoke to the sound of his digital alarm clock going
off, worried thoughts of both his sister and Willow soon
filling his mind as he switched off the alarm and prepared
to leave. He headed out the front door, arriving at the
schools gates twenty minutes later.
He entered his first period class, noticing Claire
busy talking with her friends as he made his way to his
seat. As class began, the teacher called roll, and Evan was
soon disturbed to find that Willow was absent. He recalled
her coming in late the previous day, and thought the same
thing might happen again, but alas, she never appeared, and
the entire class went by with no sign of Willow.
Second period rolled around, and crept by painfully
slowly as Evan started to worry for Willows well being.
When third period came around, Evan entered the class, half
lost in thought as he took a seat next to Natalie.
You okay? she asked. Evan suddenly looked up,
turning to her soon after.
Oh. Hey, Natalie. Yeah, Im fine. I just... didnt
get much sleep last night, he replied, forcing half a
smile. Natalie frowned, looking to him with concern as the
bell rang and class began.
Once the hour passed, the two headed to the cafeteria,
Evan still looking worried as the two got some food and
took a seat at the same table they did the day before.
Are you sure youre alright? You seem really out of
it today, Natalie said. Evan remained silent, looking
around before looking over to Natalie.
...Can you keep a secret? he asked quietly. Natalie
perked up, looking to him with interest.
Sure, she said.
...Well, the other day, there was this girl in my
first period class sitting next to me with a bruise on her
neck. Yesterday, she came in late, and today, she was
absent entirely. Im not certain, but I think she may be
taking abuse from someone, Evan explained.
Oh, my. Who is she? Natalie asked curiously. Evan
hesitated, again looking around.
You promise this stays between us? he asked.
Of course, she replied.
...Her name is Willow, Evan said quietly. Natalie
suddenly sat back.
Oh. Her? she asked.
You know her?
Not really. Shes in my fourth period class, though,
Natalie said. Why are you so concerned about her, anyway?
she asked. Evan paused, slowly shaking his head.
My sister asked the same question. Shes the only
person Ive told this to besides you, and the truth is, I
really dont know. Its just... ever since seeing her
injury, I cant help but worry about her. Maybe shes
suffering in silence, you know? Evan said. Natalie lightly
frowned.
Yeah. But what could we possibly do? she asked.
Well, I was thinking of asking her about it, but
figured it would be rude seeing as how I dont even know
her, he replied. Natalie remained silent, warily looking
to Evan, wondering why he was so worried about this strange
girl. The remainder of the lunch break ended, and the two
again parted ways, Evan heading to his fourth period class
while Natalie headed to hers in the opposite direction.
As she arrived, she looked around the room, suddenly
surprised to see Willow sitting at her usual seat in the
corner of the room despite Evan telling her she had been
absent from first period. Natalie took a seat at her usual
desk at the other end of the room, eyeing Willow from afar
as the room slowly filled with students. Natalie blinked,
tapping her fingers atop the surface of her desk as an idea
suddenly came to her. Though she felt bad for Willows
injury, she had little interest in her, otherwise. She knew
that Evan seemed concerned about her, however, and figured
she should try and help him out by finding out more about
her. She paused, taking a deep breath before getting up,
heading over to an empty desk next to Willow before taking
a seat.
Excuse me, Natalie said. Willow paused, looking to
her left.
...Yes? she asked softly.
Im sorry to bother you, but I couldnt help but
admire that scarf of yours. As you can tell, I really like
to wear black, but Ive never tried wearing a scarf,
before. Would you mind if I tried yours on real quick?
Natalie asked, stealthily inspecting Willows neck from
afar as Willow looked to her in slight surprise. She
blinked, soon slipping off her scarf and handing it to
Natalie. She took it from her, trying in vain to spot any
sign of bruising on her neck as she faked interest in the
scarf shed just been handed.
...Silk, huh? Nice. Maybe I should get a scarf like
this, she said, soon handing it back.
Im sure it would look good on you, Willow said
quietly, taking back her scarf and putting on. Natalie
paused, suddenly feeling guilty about what she was doing.
Willow seemed like a nice person, and here Natalie was,
prodding her like a science experiment in an attempt to
find a wound on her neck. Still, she couldnt help but feel
ever more curious the more she talked to her.
I thought you were absent, today, Natalie said.
I overslept, Willow replied.
I see. I used to do that a lot, myself, especially
after soccer practice or something exhausting like that. Do
you play any sports? Natalie asked, fabricating a story in
an attempt to see if she got hurt playing sports.
No, Willow replied.
I dont blame you. I really hated soccer, especially
when my parents would show up to cheer me on from the
sidelines. It was so embarrassing. Do you have parents like
that, too? Natalie asked, telling another lie in an
attempt to determine what kind of parents she had, and if
they could potentially be abusing her. Willow looked
sideways, eyeing her before again turning back.
...No, she replied once more. By now, Natalie could
detect the suspicion in Willows demeanor at all of her odd
questions. Natalie sighed, ready to give up. Just then, she
noticed a pencil sitting at the corner of her desk. She
paused, soon purposely knocking it over and onto the floor
next to Willow.
Oh, dear. Sorry about that. Do you mind getting that
for me...? Natalie asked. Willow hesitated, looking to the
pencil before reaching for it. As she bent over to pick it
up, Natalie froze, at last noticing the nasty looking
bruise on the side of Willows neck. She frowned, sadly
looking to her as Willow handed the pencil back to her.
...Thanks, Natalie said somberly, heading back to
her seat just before the bell rang. She wanted to ask her
more, but by now, felt guilty for barraging her with
questions under false pretenses, especially after catching
a glimpse of her wound.
The rest of the day went by normally, and as the final
bell rang, Evan left his sixth period class, heading for
the exit soon after. As he approached the front gates, two
men came over to him.
Excuse me, one of them said. Evan turned around.
Yes? he asked.
Im Detective Briggs, and this is Detective Hopkins.
Wed like to ask you a few questions, Briggs said,
flashing his badge. He was a tall, lanky man with broad
shoulders and chiseled features. He had short brown hair
and wore a long, dark gray trench coat and a pair of black
slacks.
About what? Evan asked cautiously. Hopkins stepped
forward.
Do you recognize this young woman? he asked, holding
out a picture of a vacuous looking girl with curly brunette
hair.
No. Im new here, Evan replied. Hopkins raised a
brow.
Is that so? he asked, producing a notepad from his
jacket. Hopkins was a short, stocky man, bald and with
thick, circular, black rimmed glasses and a dry smile. He
wore a black leather police jacket and a pair of brown
trousers, scribbling something away at his notepad as Evan
stood tensely from nearby.
Relax, son. Youre not in any trouble. We just want
to ask you a few questions regarding the disappearance of
this young woman. Her name was Tiffany Irvine, and she was
last seen leaving this school on Friday, October 9, exactly
eleven days ago. Do you or anyone you know have any idea as
to where she may have gone? Briggs asked. Evan stood in
surprise, shaking his head soon after.
I dont know. Ive never seen her before, he said.
I see. Well, if you think of anything, let us know,
Briggs said, taking his leave along with Hopkins.
As the two detectives began questioning another
student, Evan left, surprised to learn that someone had
recently gone missing from the school. After about twenty
minutes, he arrived at his house, finding it eerily quiet
with the absence of his sister and his mother still locked
away in her room. He headed to the couch, flipping on the
TV and searching for something to watch, finally settling
on a local news program.
despite terrorism not being suspected as a cause of
the senators mysterious death. In other news, a local
family is still holding out hope that their missing
daughter will return home alive. Sixteen-year-old Tiffany
Irvine was last seen leaving the grounds of Maple High
School shortly after classes let out on Friday, October 9.
The teenager was known for staying out late and partying
until early morning hours, but the family says that shed
never been gone this long before, and her mother pleaded
for her to come home, claiming that neither she nor her
stepfather were angry with her, the news anchor said. Evan
folded his arms, listening with interest at the report of
the missing girl hed earlier been told about by the pair
of detectives. Though he felt concern for her, in truth, he
was still more worried about his sister and Willow. The
fact that Willow was absent from first period left a sick
feeling in the pit of his stomach, and the rest of the
night crept by slowly as worried thoughts of both her and
Madilyn circled around Evans mind.
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
11:23 AM
Evan slowly opened his eyes, noticing the TV was still on
as he realized he had fallen asleep on the couch. As he
looked around, he froze, noticing his mother sitting on the
sofa nearby.
Mom! he said in surprise, slowly sitting up. Evans
mother sat in silence, blankly staring at the TV in her
dirty bathrobe, her short blond hair disheveled.
...Wheres your sister? she asked in a scraggly
voice.
I dont know. She took off two days ago and didnt
say where she was going, Evan replied. After a moments
pause, his mother stood up, shuffling back to her room
before snapping the door shut. Evan sat in bewilderment.
Since the divorce, shed sunk into a deep depression, and
it was rare for her to even leave her room, much less talk
to anyone. Evan then looked to a nearby clock, eyes
widening as he realized what time it was. He shot to his
feet, hurrying to his room and getting ready before racing
out of the house, walking as fast as he could to school.
Upon arrival, he noticed the courtyard and surrounding
corridors filled with the hustle and bustle of the lunch
break. He sighed, annoyed that hed overslept so much as he
slowly traipsed through the gates and across the courtyard.
As he looked around, he suddenly spotted a familiar girl
sitting by herself at an old picnic table near some trees
at the edge of the school grounds. It was Willow, arms and
legs folded as she sat facing away from the table, staring
stoically ahead at the overcast alpine landscape.
Evan paused, realizing that this might be an
opportunity to get to know her, and maybe ask her about her
wound. He turned to her, making his way across the
courtyard and over to the picnic table Willow was sitting
on. As he approached, Willow sat in silence, face half
hidden beneath her scarf as she stared blankly ahead at the
scenery.
Excuse me... Willow? Evan said. Willows eyes
suddenly met his as her body remained motionless. I... Im
sorry to bother you, but... we have the same first period
class. My name is Evan. Do you mind if I sit down? he
asked. Willow sat in silence, staring him down before
turning her eyes away, lightly shaking her head moments
later. Thanks, Evan said with relief, taking a seat next
to her. He then looked around, noticing no signs of food
anywhere near her. You didnt get lunch? he asked.
...I dont have any money, she said softly.
That makes two of us, then, Evan replied, recalling
how hed forgotten to take any money with him in his haste
to leave the house. As he looked over to Willow, a cold
breeze blew by, causing her hair to blow to the side. Evan
froze, suddenly finding himself captivated by just how
beautiful she was, her cold, dark blue eyes staring off
into the distance as her thin, pale silhouette cascaded
with the unsettling scenery of the overcast horizon behind
her. As Evan was lost in the sight of her, she suddenly
looked over to him, causing him to quickly snap out of his
trance and look away. He blinked, shyly looking to the side
before starting to speak.
Willow
Youre new here, arent you? she asked in a blunt
tone of voice, suddenly interrupting Evan.
Yeah. We just moved here about a week ago, he
replied.
I see. Im sorry to hear that, she said. Evan
paused, looking to her in confusion.
...Huh? Why? he asked. Willow paused, slowly turning
to Evan before looking him square in the eyes.
Dont you know? This is where people come to die,
she said coldly.
Evan froze, a chill suddenly running down his spine as he
stared back at Willow in bewilderment, thunder rolling in
from the distance.
...What? What do you mean? he asked warily. Willow
again paused, looking back to the horizon moments later.
This town is death. Its like a pool of stagnant
water that gets dirtier and more corrupt with each passing
day. Nothing good ever happens here, and once youve
arrived,
theres no hope for you, she explained, standing up as the
bell sounded off in the distance soon after. As she headed
back toward the school, Evan blinked, quickly standing up.
Whered you get that bruise? he asked suddenly.
Willow froze in place, slowly turning back to him before
eyeing him suspiciously.
...What bruise? she asked, pushing up her scarf with
her shoulders.
The one on your neck. I noticed it the other day when
you came in late. What happened, Willow? he asked with
concern. Willow remained silent, looking away moments
later.
...I hit a cabinet, she said, again walking off.
Thats not the truth, is it? Evan asked. Willow
cringed, again looking back at him.
What do you care? Who the hell are you, anyway?
Asking such things out of nowhere!? she asked in
annoyance. As Willow glared at Evan, he frowned, his
reaction catching her off guard as he slowly walked over to
her.
Willow... Im sorry to pry. Its just, I... Im
worried about you, thats all, Evan said shyly. Willow
suddenly froze, weakly staring at him as a cold breeze
whipped by. She blinked, slowly looking away.
Evan... please. Dont get involved, she said softly,
voice trembling.
But
Please! Willow said, tears forming in her eyes as
she stared back at Evan. Please... I beg of you, she
concluded, swiftly composing herself before turning around
and heading back to the school. Evan looked on in silence,
a pained look on his face as he watched her disappear from
sight.
The rest of the day went by slowly as Evan replayed
his encounter with Willow again and again in his mind. It
was just as Madilyn had predicted: Willow was in full
denial about how shed gotten hurt, claiming that shed
merely hit a cabinet. Evan knew full well that wasnt the
case, however. He wanted to help her, to save her from
whoever it was that was physically abusing her, but Willow
had made it abundantly clear that she didnt want his
interference. As the final bell rang, Evan left the school
and headed home, idling away the rest of the night.
Thursday, October 22, 2015
7:45 AM
Evan arrived at school, noticing the halls starting to fill
up with autumn decorations promoting the upcoming fall
dance that was to take place at the school in a weeks
time. He entered his first period class, taking a seat as
the room slowly filled with students. Just before the late
bell sounded, Willow entered the room, taking her usual
seat next to Evan. The two looked to each other, briefly
meeting eyes before shyly looking away.
...Hey, Willow, Evan said shyly.
...Hi, she replied quietly.
Im really sorry about yesterday. I had no right
poking my nose where it doesnt belong, he said. Willow
paused, lightly frowning and looking away.
...No. Its alright. I appreciate your concern, but
theres no need to worry. I just get a bit clumsy,
sometimes, she replied, still holding fast to the cabinet
story. Evan frowned.
Well, if you ever want someone to talk to, Im here
for you, Willow. Anything you need, just ask, he said,
trying his best to help her out. Willow shyly turned to
him, blinking in surprise before again turning away,
slightly blushing as class soon started up.
First and second periods both went by, and Evan soon
entered his third period class, taking his usual seat as
Natalie entered the room soon after, taking her usual seat
next to him.
Hey, Natalie, Evan said.
Hey. Where were you yesterday? Natalie asked.
Oh, I passed out on the couch the previous night and
overslept big time. I guess I was more tired than I had
realized, he replied in embarrassment.
Oh..., Natalie replied, sounding slightly dejected
as the teacher entered the room and class began. After the
bell rang, Evan and Natalie again headed to the cafeteria,
getting some food before taking a seat at their usual table
as Evan looked out the nearby glass window at the decorated
hallways outside.
Looks like the dance is fast approaching, he said.
Yeah. I dont really care, though. I dont dance,
she replied.
I hear you. Enlightened feet have got no rhythm,
dont you think? he asked. Natalie half smiled.
Totally, she said.
By the way, did you hear about the girl who went
missing recently? Evan asked.
Oh, Tiffany? Yeah. Good riddance, I say, Natalie
replied.
Why?
Well, it may sound cold to speak ill of someone whos
gone missing, but to be honest, I never really liked her.
She was a bit of a bully, not to mention a snob, she
explained.
I see. Now that you mention it, a pair of detectives
showed me a picture of her when they questioned me about
her disappearance as I was leaving school the other day,
and she did sort of give off that vibe, Evan replied.
Natalie suddenly paused, looking over to him in surprise.
...Detectives? she asked warily.
Yeah. I was a bit surprised, myself. They came over
to me as I was leaving, and asked me if Id ever seen her
before. I told them no, and they seemed vaguely interested
in the fact that I was new here before going off to
question someone else, he said. Natalie slowly cringed,
turning her eyes to the side.
...Damn cops. Dont those maggots have anything
better to do...? she asked with quiet disdain. Evan
paused, taken aback by her sudden change in demeanor.
...It was no big deal. I guess theyre just trying to
get to the bottom of Tiffanys disappearance. She has been
gone for eleven days, after all, Evan remarked. Natalie
looked back at him.
I know. Its just... I hate government types, thats
all, she replied.
How come? Evan asked. Natalie slowly shook her head.
Forget it, she replied. Evan looked to her with
confusion, once more intrigued by her curious behavior.
As he watched her sitting before him, Natalie remained
silent, staring down at her untouched apple, gently
twirling it around with one hand while staring down at it,
apparently lost in thought. As Evan looked on at her, he
suddenly found himself lost in her eyes. They were like two
deep pools of midnight surrounded by a thin layer of dark
purple mascara, her pupils as black as the clothes she wore
as her bangs half covered her left eye. As Evan sat in awed
silence, he soon realized something. She was cute. In fact,
she was very cute. If it werent for the Gothic attire she
seemed so keen on covering herself with, shed likely be
the cutest girl in school. Or maybe her attire was part of
the reason why Evan found her so attractive. As Natalie
caught eyes with him, he blinked, quickly looking away
moments later.
The rest of the lunch break went by, as did the rest
of the day, and soon, the final bell rang. Evan gathered
his things and left the building, leaving the school
grounds soon after. As he walked along the side of the
road, a fancy, black town car pulled up next to him,
rolling the window down.
Hey, you! Claire said from the drivers seat.
Claire! Evan said in surprise.
Dont tell me you walk to and from school every day?
she said.
I do. My house isnt far from here, he replied.
Aww, you poor thing. You shouldnt have to do that.
Hop in! she said chipperly. Evan paused, soon getting into
the spacious vehicle.
Nice car, he said, looking around the interior.
Thanks. Its all mine, too! Claire said with pride.
So, wheres your house, anyway? she asked.
Just up the road a bit, he explained, giving her
directions as she drove him to his house. Upon arrival,
Claire looked it over.
Aww. Such a cute little house, she said with a
smile.
Yeah, I think so, too. Thanks for the ride, Claire,
he said.
No prob. I pass by this way on the way to school, by
the way. If youre out here at around half past seven, I
can pick you up if ya like, she said.
You dont have to do that, Claire, Evan replied.
Oh, come on! Its really no trouble, she said.
...Well, if youre really sure its alright, then I
gladly take you up on your offer, Evan said.
Great! See ya tomorrow, then. Bye, Evan! she said,
the two waving goodbye as Claire drove off. Evan went into
the house, sitting on the couch and turning on the TV to
the same channel hed left it on the previous day, noticing
a news anchor in the middle of interviewing a conspiracy
theorist over a recent story.
...Im telling you, the assassination of Senator
Everett was not the doing of a foreign agency, but rather,
the work of a secretive network of assassins working from
within the United States! the theorist explained.
Mister Higgins, with due respect, youre theories
have often been criticized as outlandish and based on no
scientific evidence. What proof do you have to support your
claims? the anchor asked.
The proof is right in front of you! Open your eyes,
Jim! Everett, just before his death, was in the middle of
investigating this shady group of contract killers when
shortly thereafter, he turns up dead in a hotel room of an
alleged heart attack. Coincidence? I think not! the
theorist declared. Evan rolled his eyes, changing the
channel several times before eventually shutting the TV off
and heading to his room.