Elements: The Gifted
Chapter 14: Good Tidings and Death Threats

“Spencer, get in here!Dinner is almost ready.” My mom shouted from the kitchen. I was sitting in theliving room with my two cousins’ Carmen and Kelsey, watching reruns of The Mentalist on the huge flat screen inmy grandparent’s living room. I was also contemplating on how to tell mygrandparents about Reapers and demon hunters – maybe even tell them about thefive elements that my kind possess. They know what I can do, but I doubt theyknew about others like me. With these thoughts heavily on my mind, I sighedquietly and heaved myself off the couch. I wandered into the kitchen where my grandma,Aunt Tara, and my mother stood talking to one another. No doubt they werediscussing about the latest gossip. My mother passed me a big bowl of mashedpotatoes.

“Do you mind setting the table?” mom asked. “It wouldsure help us out a lot.”

“Sure,” I said. Mom smiled and turned back around toanswer a question that Aunt Tara had asked. I retreated to the dining roomafter that.

After every placemat, plate, and silverware was situated,I decided to join mom and mammy in the kitchen. I was just about to open thedoor when I heard mammy ask, “So is Spencer enjoying that academy?”

I stopped at the door and held my breath as I listenedclosely to their conversation. How did mammy know I was attending the academy?Did mom tell her? Mom and grandma were pretty close. I guess I shouldn’t besurprised if she did.

“She loves it. I think she feels more at home andaccepted there.”

“That’s good.” mammy said. She sounded genuinely pleased.“I’m just happy to know that she’s finally made some friends.”

“Me too. She’s really crazy about this boy named Jordan.He seems like a sweet kid.”

I smiled at the mention of Jordan’s name. It’s only beena couple of days and I miss him.

“What is it?” mammy asked. I shoved all thoughts ofJordan aside and refocused my attention on their conversation. It was silentfor several minutes.

“Well, it’s Spencer. She’s been jumpy a lot here recently.”

“What do you mean?”

“She constantly jumps at every sound that takes place inthe house and her face goes white every time she gets a letter. I don’t knowwhy.”

“Maybe something happened at the academy that she’s nottelling you about. You know her. She can be very secretive.”

“Yeah, because she knows I tend to overreact abouteverything.” She sighed. “I don’t know what to do, mom. I mean, I know she’shappy to be home, but I can’t help but feel like she misses it there.”

“Or maybe someone.” Mammy said. My mind instantly thoughtof Alex and I could feel my heart beat picking up at the thought of his face.Like Jordan, I missed him terribly. “Maybe she’s hiding more than what you know.”

“Like…” mom trailed off.

“Like maybe there’s a boy. Do you think her and Jordan—“

Mom cut her off. “No. I think she only sees him as afriend. And besides, even if they were to fall in love it would be...unhealthy.”

“Why? Because they have that bond thing?”

I fought back a giggle. Of course grandma wouldn’tremember the word “N’Sync”. I tried listening closely to hear mom’s answer. Whatdid she mean it would be “unhealthy” if Jordan and I were to fall in love? Notthat it mattered. I didn’t feel that way about Jordan at all.

“It has nothing to do with that. I’m just saying there’smore to her and Jordan’s relationship then them being best friends. Somethingboth of them are unaware of. Mom, you can’t tell her this but Jordan actuallyis—“

I don’t know how it happened. It must have been fate’sway of telling me I couldn’t know what mom was about to say, because I somehowmanaged to slide on the wooden floor and bang my head against the door.

“OW!” I shouted as I clutched my forehead, trying tofight back tears as a sharp pain shot through my head. I instantly forgot whatmom was about to say. Hell, at this point I didn’t care. I just wanted the painto go away.

Mom and mammy rushed into the dining room and looked atme worriedly.

“Are you okay?” mom asked.

I was unable to replace my voice so I just shook my head.

“Oh, poor baby.” Mammy said as she and mom helped me up.They both sat me gently in a chair. A second later I heard someone run out ofthe room. No doubt it was mammy – making it her mission to go search forpainkillers. God, bless that woman.

“Let me see,” mom said. I felt as she tried to pry myhands off my face to take a look, but I didn’t know if I wanted her to see thedamage. Knowing my mother, she might end up thinking I might need to go theemergency room. After five minutes went by, and she still hadn’t given up, Isuccumbed and I removed my hands. I heard an intake of breath and stiffened.

“What is it?” Was I bleeding profusely? I didn’t feel anyblood. Maybe half my face was gone.

“Well,” mom said. “You definitely got a bump. What wereyou doing? Did you trip over your feet again?”

I pursed my lips, hoping that she didn’t see the guilt onmy face. “Sure.”

Mom frowned. “You weren’t eavesdropping, were you?”

“Well, uh…no.” I eyed the fork and wondered if it was toolate to stink myself with it.

Mom pulled away and crossed her arms, a scowl appearingon her face. “Spencer Danielle Mason—”

“Okay, okay.” I said my hands held high as if insurrender. It’s usually when my mom says my full name that I’m in real bigtrouble. “I might have heard a small part of your conversation.”

“And what part of the conversation was that?”

“Um, well…it had something to do with Jordan.”

“I knew it!” she exclaimed.

"But I fell and banged my head before I could hear anythingelse.” Mom bit her lip then, looking uncomfortable. It was my turn to scowl ather. “What are you keeping from me? And what does it have to do with me andJordan?”

Mom sighed. “You’re not ready. Honestly, it’s probablybest if you forget about everything I said to your mammy. That means, don’t goback to the academy and blabber to Jordan. I don’t need it getting back to hisuncle—“

I cut her off, feeling bemused. “Mr. Grey,” mom lookedlike she wanted to stink herself with the fork too. “But what does he have todo with all this?”

“Let’s just say Mr. Grey has a little to do with yourpast and your future. That is all youneed to know.”

I frowned. What does she mean by that? Did Mr. Grey’s involvement have something to do with myfather? Suddenly my mind was pondering all kinds of questions as to how Mr.Grey had become a huge part of my life.

“Well,I’ll replace out sooner or later. And when I do, I’ll show you that I am capableof being ready – whatever it is you two are hiding.”

Two weeks went by and Igot back to my regular routines at the academy. Also December was approachingwhich meant I probably I had three or four weeks left of school for thissemester. I shuddered. All my teachers – at the end of this semester – aresupposed to give their students pop quizzes on everything we learned from thebeginning of the school year to now. I knew it was important – that ourinstructors were only preparing us for the final exams that we are to takebefore the school year ends – but it was still tiring all the same. I knew Ihad a lot of studying and catching up to do.

It had snowed the night before andnow the whole campus was shrouded with glistening snow. Everywhere I looked, Iwould see snow angels, snowmen, and groups of students (mostly ice and waterusers) have snowball fights. It was easier for the ice users. All they had todo was wield there power and voilà – they would have snowballs aimed at theirenemies heads before the other team ever finished making their own snowballs. Thesnow came to about my knees, which made it kind of hard to walk. I knew I couldhave used my magic to help me walk through snow, but somehow using magic foreverything didn’t seem right. So I just told myself to stop my bitching andkept walking. I started feeling sorry for turtles because I’m beginning tounderstand how they feel. I definitely felt like one as waddled through thesnow.

It was a beautiful snowy day so Idecided to take advantage of it. I had my Kindle tucked under my arm, with myright hand holding a Styrofoam cup full of hot chocolate as I looked forsomewhere to sit. I finally made it to a picnic table, and as I dusted some ofthe snow off of the bench, I took a seat and pulled Kindie (as I liked to callher) out from under my arm and turned it on. I hadn’t read from her in a longtime and I thought today was a good day to use her. I was relieved to see thatshe was fully charged and picked one of my favorite best-selling books The Hunger Games and started to read. I smiled to myself in contentment anddrank some hot chocolate. I was completely immersed in chapter one.

That’s until a snowball hit mesquare in the face.

I screeched as I felt hot chocolateseep through my clothes, ruining the white fabric. I jumped up from my seat andaccidentally dropped my Kindle in the snow. I barely noticed, for I was tryingto summon my ice magic to cool the blotches on my skin. I groaned as the coldrelieved me of the pain. When I finally got the stings from the burns undercontrol, I sighed and picked up Kindie. I was relieved to see that she wasalright.

It was then that I heard a bunch ofgirls laughing. I looked up and saw Abigail, Sarah, Madilyn, and Panty LessLacey. They were all huddled over, laughing hysterically as they took in myless-than-perfect state. I felt my temper flare and while summoning my innerbitch, I started to march towards them. I don’t know if it was the cold thatmade them seem paler or the look on my face – but whatever it was – I waspleased.

“Nice coat,” Abigail said. I crossed my arms as we stoodface-to-face. Abigail, due to her curly hair, was a couple inches taller thanme. She smiled wickedly. “It’s too bad it’s ruined. It looked very expensive.”

That’s because it was. I got this coat from last year’sChristmas. It was a gift from my grandparents. I was proud to say I remainedstoic as I looked into her evil, dark eyes. “Nothing a bit of soap and watercan’t fix.” I replied, deadpan.

“Ooohhh,” she said. “Look at the ‘chosen one’ being allbig and brave.”

“I’m not the chosen one.”

“Well, you must be since that’s all everyone talks about. Your big news! I wouldn’t be surprised ifthe Herald came and paid you a visit just to congratulate you.”

I could feel my tough exterior about to crack. Was shejust trying to push me?

“Tell us,” Madilyn said. “Are you scaredthat he is coming for you? I mean, he already came after the candy lady.It’s only a matter of time before you’re next.”

“What about the candylady?” I asked, confused. I had no idea what she was talking about. What didSweet Sally have to do with this?

“You don’t know,” Sarah said, eyeing me stupidly. I shookmy head. “There was a message on her door – a message that was in blood.” Sheleaned into me, our faces only three inches apart as she whispered, “It saidthat he’s coming!”

They laughed at my frightened expression. I frowned.“That is not something to laugh about. Do you not realize how serious this is?”

“Calm down,” Abigail said. “I’m sure it was Torchwood –just following in his daddies footsteps. Soon all the citizens of Hallowvillewill realize the truth.”

“You listen here,” Abigail and her friends took a stepback, their eyes wary. “Alex is not his father. He is a totally different person!”

“Youlove him, don’t you?” Abigail sneered.

“What?” Whoa. Major change of subject. Where did thatcome from?

“Well, do you?” she pressed.

“I-I don’t know,” I stammered. “I’ve never been in lovebefore so I wouldn’t know.” I couldn’t believe I was actually having thisconversation with none other than Abigail Westchester.

“Well,” Lacey said. “You do stand up for him quite alot.”

“So?”

“We just replace it very curious.”

“It’s none of your business what my relationship withAlex is. It’s between me and him. That’s all you need to know.” I snapped.

“Whatever,” Abigail said. “We know how you feel abouthim. Hell, everyone does.” Her smile was full of menace. “It’s just a shamethat he doesn’t feel the same way.”

I felt like someone had just slapped me in the face.

Abigail and her groupies laughed as they vanished intothe school, while leaving me alone in the courtyard with nothing but mytroublesome thoughts and my fears of what was coming.

It was a sudden newchange, but later that evening after getting a little homework done fortomorrow, my friends and I decided to hang in Mr. Grey’s class, along with Mr.Grey himself. This was sure to be awkward and little strange, especially when Ithought about what my mom said.

Let’s just say Mr.Grey has a little to do with your past and your future. That is all you need to know.

I sighed. Some part of me really wanted to say somethingto Mr. Grey about it, but I refrained. Mostly I wanted to tell Jordan. I didn’tlike keeping secrets from him.

As I predicted, it was awkward and strange hanging aroundMr. Grey and in his classroom. I felt like I should be taking notes instead oflistening to my friends blabber about inconsequential things. The only one thatreally seemed to notice my lack of interest wasMr. Grey.

“Is everything alright, Spencer?” he asked.

Everyone immediately went silent and stared at mewordlessly, their eyes full of curiosity.

His question caught me off guard. Was I alright? Hm. Well,not really. Not after hearing that Sally – the candy lady – was probablymurdered because of me. But then I wondered something. Sarah had said that themessage on the door was written in blood and that it said he’s coming. It made it sound like someone else had written it. Ididn’t believe Alex did it, but I knew, somewhere in this school, someone wassmiling and pretending to be my friend when really they want me dead. LikeScarlett, I don’t think Azazel typed that letter, nor do I believe he killedthat rabbit. It had to be someone I know,just like Mia said.

My eyes scanned each of my friend’s faces as I eyed themcoldly. “What happened to Sally? The candy lady. Abigail and her friends toldme that she went missing and that there was blood on the door.” I could tell asone-by-one, my friends turned away to avoid my piercing gaze. They knew and yetthey didn’t tell me. Why? “Do you know what it said?”

Still no answer.

“It said that he’scoming! And whoever did this iswandering hallways and corridors of this school. Smiling and laughing with orat me. I’m not sure. But whoever this person is, is working very closely toAzazel.” Everyone winced at the sound of his name, but very wisely did notrebuke me for it. I could feel tears filling my eyes as I looked at my friends.“He’s going to kill me, isn’t he?”

None of my friends answered me. Mr. Grey and Jordan eyedme apologetically.

“I’m going to die! He has someone that’s going to kill meand I’m not even prepared.”

“You’re not going to die!” Jordan said adamantly. I felta tear as it slowly dripped down my face. My eyes never left Jordan’s as hecrouched down in front me, taking both my hands in his. “I won’t let anythinghappen to you. It’s going to be okay.”

“It’s really hitting me,” I said, ignoring his lastsentence. “I didn’t think much of it but I’m really starting to think that…thatI might be…in a deeper mess then I thought.” Jordan wrapped his arms around meas I tried to fight back more tears from spilling over. It didn’t work. “Whatam I going to do?”

Everyone remained silent, but their eyes spoke of guiltand sorrow for my pain – for my fear. Yes, I was scared. I was so scared thatmy brain literally couldn’t function correctly. While Jordan held me, my mindstarted racing with unpleasant questions – questions I wasn’t ready to come toterms with. Is Azazel really coming back – to torment the people of Hallowvilleand Eden once more? Will he hurt my family just to get to me? Am I really thechosen one? I stopped the thought right there. There is no way I’m the chosenone. I am not the girl everyone has been waiting for! They’ve got the wrong half-Reaper. I pulled away from Jordan,grateful that he was my N’Sync and best friend. Without him and his comfort, Iwould have probably been a bigger mess if it weren’t for him. He smiled and pattedme on the back before getting up and taking back his place beside his brother.I guess he wanted to give me some space. It wasn’t until I started calming downthat one of my friends finally spoke.

“Did they ever replace her body?” Gabby asked.

I wiped my face with my hands and took a deep breathbefore answering. “I don’t know. Abigail didn’t say.”

“Is he really returning?” Morgan asked, his face ashypale. His question was directed at Mr. Grey. “Uncle, you don’t really think—“

“I don’t know what to think, Morgan. All I know is thatwe must be prepared. Until then – when the summer is upon us – you three—“he gestured at Jordan,Morgan, and Gabrielle. “Need to stop going out at night and hunting monsters.Because like it or not we’re going tobe the ones that are hunted.”

It was a little after ninethat I decided to go to bed. I was tired after a day with Abigail, and missingpeople, not to mention, breaking down in front of my friends. I realized that Ihad a trying day and I just wanted to escape reality and dream of happy things,like fields full of flowers or Disneyland.

I put on my pajamas and crawled into bed. Once I wastucked in, I curled into a ball, and closed my eyes, trying to sink intounconsciousness. But it was no use. My mind just couldn’t stop thinking aboutSally and Azazel. I couldn’t stop thinking about the message on the candy shopdoor.

He’s coming.

I sighed and scrambled out of bed. I decided to finishthe rest of Tuesday’s homework, hoping that would take my mind off currentevents.

I loved English. If anything the homework definitely keptmy mind preoccupied as I filled out the study guide that we would be going overTuesday. I would also use this material to study for Thursday’s English test. Iwas just about finished when suddenly I was whisked inside Jordan’s mind.

“Oh no.” I murmured. This could not be happening. What was he doing that caused him to drag me intohis head? The answer became obvious. Jordan and Alicia must have made some sortof improvement in their relationship in the last two weeks that we arrived backto the academy, because they were suddenly making out passionately in Jordan’sbedroom, their bodies pressed against one another as they laid on Jordan’s bed.Well, actually it felt like I was kissingher. I suddenly felt disoriented and tired. I didn’t want to see this. I triedpulling out, but it was like someone had me blocked. I couldn’t get out. Damnit all!

Jordan pulled away and smirked. “Not bad, huh?”

“You’re a good kisser.” she said, breathlessly.

“Well, that’s nice to know. It’s embarrassing, but it’s beena while since I’ve kissed anyone.”

”That’s okay,” Alicia said. “You’re not the only one.”

They were both lying on their sides as they gazed at oneanother. I felt like I was invading in on a very private moment. That’s because you are, my subconscioushissed. I frowned. God, I have got toreplace a way out of Jordan’s head. He’ll never forgive me if he replaces out that Ieavesdropped on this perfect moment of theirs. I tried struggling back into myhead, but it was a failed attempt. Oh, well. I might as well give up. I’m notleaving the depths of his mind anytime soon.

“So how was your day?” Alicia asked. I had to remindmyself that she was talking to Jordan and not me.

“It was okay,” he seemed to frown as he thought about mein my crying state from earlier. In his mind I looked so broken and scared. Icringed at the sight of me in his memory. My face was ghostly pale and blotchyfrom all the crying and my hair looked like a mess! Dang. I look gross. I didn’t like seeing me like that. I neverwould have considered myself a weak person but that’s exactly what I lookedlike. And you’re supposed to be a hero, mysubconscious scoffed. If only I could smack her.

“What’s wrong?” Alicia asked. She seemed concerned.

“It’s Spencer. She’s not doing very well.”

“What do mean?”

Jordan sat up then. Alicia followed his example. “Shefeels very defenseless. I think the thought of him coming after her is really starting to take its toll.” Which isa nice way to say I’m going insane. Thank you, Jordan.

“Do you really believe that he is after her?” she asked, through tight, white lips.

“I don’t know.” Jordan said. “I do believe someone istrying to hurt her, though.”

“Like who? Spencer is a sweetheart. Why would anyone wantto hurt her?” I could feel my lips form into smile at her words. I really dolike Alicia. I approve one-hundred percent.

Jordan shrugged. “Again, I don’t know. But there’ssomething about Torchwood—“

Alicia cut him off, a scowl on her. “Jordan, it’s notAlex. Why do you dislike him so much?” She eyed him suspiciously. “Are youjealous of him and Spencer’s relationship?”

“What? No!” Alicia still looked unconvinced. “I only seeSpencer as a friend. That’s all. And it’s the same way with her. I just don’twant to see her get hurt by that creep.”

“I don’t think he’ll hurt her, Jordan. I think you’reoverreacting.”

“Okay,” he said. “He might not hurt her physically, butwho’s to say he won’t break her heart. I mean, he is a guy. He might just wantone thing from her and once he gets it—“

“Alex is not that type of guy,” Alicia said. Jordan shookhis head, his eyes dubious. “He’s not. He’s an asshole, I know, but he alsocares for Spencer very much.” My heart beat started picking up at her words.

”And how do you know this?” Jordan demanded. “I mean, Iwasn’t aware that you were close to Torchwood.”

“I’m not. I just watch people. Trust me, when Spencer andAlex are in the same room, all he can do is look at her.”

“And all Spencer can do is look at him,” Jordan murmured.He didn’t sound pleased about it. “I still don’t like it.” I rolled my eyes.What a surprise.

“Well tough,” Alicia snapped. Jordan eyes widened at hersharp tone. “She is you’re N’Sync, not your sister. Let her make her ownchoices. I’m sure she approves of our relationship.” I wasn’t aware that they had formed a relationship. Well, atleast not a serious one. Then again, it would explain the kissing.

“Well,” Jordan said, sheepishly. “I haven’t exactly toldher about us making it official yet.”

“What?” Alicia growled.

“I just haven’t found the right time – what with schoolbeing hectic and all. But I promise,” he held his hands up in defense. “I’lltell her.”

“Well, you better.” Alicia said. The warning was evidentin her voice. “I told Jennifer. You need to tell Spencer tomorrow.” Oh, hewon’t need too. I plan on letting him know that I know first thing.

“Okay,” Jordan sighed. He didn’t look to thrilled by theidea. In fact, he looked frightened. Probably worried that I’ll bite his headoff. “Tomorrow.”

The next day as I walkedwith Jordan, Morgan, and Scarlett to Magic and Spells, I noticed that in thehallways, Christmas lights were strewn all over the corridors and on classroomdoors. Everyone was getting ready for Christmas. I repressed a sigh. To behonest, I wasn’t exactly feeling the holiday spirit. I felt bad that I hadspied on Alicia and Jordan last night and I was having a hard time bringing upthe subject. I realized when I woke up this morning that I was no longer mad atJordan for keeping his relationship with Alicia a secret, for he was right.School was crazy right now and I’m always busy with homework, while alsoworrying about who’s trying to kill me. There really was no way for him tobring up the subject.

Just as we made it to Ms. Hardwick’s door, I pulledJordan aside. Morgan and Scarlett came to a halt, eyeing me in puzzlement. “Ineed to talk to Jordan alone.”

“Oh, okay,” Scarlett said. Morgan looked like he wasabout to protest, but Scarlett grabbed his wrist and dragged him into theclassroom. He didn’t look very happy about it.

“What wrong?” Jordan asked.

I bit my lip, feeling nervous. I hope he doesn’t get mad.After all, it wasn’t really my fault. He basically dragged me into their “conversation.”He was just unaware of my presence. “I was in your head last night. I saw youand Alicia, um, kissing and I also heard your conversation afterwards,”Jordan’s angry expression had me hurrying through my explanation. “B-but I wantyou to know that I didn’t mean too. You kind of dragged me into your head and Itried getting out but it was a lot of work. It’s like you had me pinned inplace and I couldn’t move. Please, don’t be angry. I’m sorry.”

Jordan’s face, to my relieve, softened at my apology. “Soyou heard everything. Even about how Alicia and I—

“Yep.”

Now it was Jordan’s turn to look nervous. “You’re not madthat I didn’t tell you about Alicia and me right away, are you?”

“I was last night, but this morning it kind of faded. Iknow why you didn’t tell me. It’s kind of hard when we don’t exactly have timeto hang out with each other.”

“That's true,” he agreed. “But I’m still sorry.”

“It’s okay. The worst part was feeling like I was kissing, Alicia.” I shuddered. “But it definitely took my mind of somethings so…thanks.” I added lamely.

“No problem,” Jordan said. He smiled teasingly. “I’m gladyou enjoyed the show.”

“I never said that.”

Jordan laughed as we made our way into class. To ourluck, class hadn’t started. Ms. Hardwick was still at her desk, grading papersas Jordan and I took our assigned seats. I smiled as I saw Jordan and Aliciaholding hands under their table, while also looking at each other with goo gooeyes. I heard someone gag at the front of the room and realized it was Morgan.Jordan must have heard him too because he glared in his direction. I chuckledand turned to look at the empty seat next to mine. I was surprised to see Alexhadn’t shown up for class yet. Was he sick? Had he gotten in trouble? No. Hemust be running late or something because I saw him in all the other classes Ihave with him. Just as the bell rang, Alex materialized through the door. As soon as he saw me, a half smile appearedon his gorgeous face.

“Nice timing,” I said as Alex took his seat next to mine.“What were you doing? You were almost late.”

“Mr. Hans wanted to talk to me after class. It was aboutsome assignment that I forgot to turn in Wednesday.”

“Did you turn it in?”

“Yeah, but since it was due Wednesday I got points takenoff. Oh, well.”

I giggled at his carelessness. It’s was so cute. “Whydidn’t you turn it in Wednesday? Did you not have it with you or did you notfinish it?”

“It was completed. I was just off in lala land when heasked us to turn it in.”

“Ah. Lala land. You got to love it there.”

“It’s a nice place.” Alex agreed. He said it so casually.It was so cute.

Okay, so I think everything about him is cute. So sue me.

After dinner, I decided togo up to my room and take a long, hot soothing shower. Today had been rough andI just wanted to replace some way to relax for the rest of the evening. I put mypassword into the keypad and heard the audible click as my door unlocked. I closed my door and threw my backpackon my bed – in a hurry to get to my bathroom.

I shucked off my clothes and turned the nozzle labeled hot and stepped into the scalding water.It felt wonderful on my tender muscles. Today, Jordan had kicked my ass duringtraining and somehow I had landed on my shoulder. It hurt every time I moved ita certain way. I picked up the lavender soap and used it to scrub all the dirtand sweat off my body. It felt tender on my sensitive skin. It was anindistinct sort of sound, but I could have sworn I heard something like thedoor opening. I shrugged it off and started washing my hair. It was lookingkind of gross after today’s training.

When I finally felt relaxed and squeaky clean, I turnedthe nozzle off and pulled the shower curtain aside. Suddenly I heard a scream.It wasn’t until a few seconds went by that I realized it had been me. The word Die was written in scarlet red on my bathroom mirror. I couldn’t move. Iwas completely paralyzed. Who got into my bathroom? Or more importantly who hadaccess to my bedroom? No one knows my password. Not even Jordan. I crumbled inthe bathtub as I continued to stare at the three letters on my mirror: Die. Tears came unbidden to my eyes.What am I going to do?

Then suddenly a thought occurred to me. What if thatperson is still here – in my closet or hanging around in my bedroom? Am I evensafe in the confines of my own room? I rolled my eyes. If they can get into myroom it just goes to show that I’m not safe anywhere. Trying to gather all mystrength, I used my shower curtain to pull myself up and quickly got dressed.My Sais – thank God – were still on the counter by the sink. I grabbed them,and carefully opened the door to peek inside my room and make sure no one wasin there, waiting to ambush or kidnap me. When the coast was clear, I rushed tomy door and swung it open. I heard the door slam shut behind me once I wasrunning down the corridor. I was rushing downstairs to replace someone that couldhelp me. I didn’t want to bother Jordan – he was probably with Alicia anyways –so I decided on the next closest person I could rely on. I prayed to God thathe was in his room and not up on the roof as I ran down the fire corridor. Isaw Scarlett’s door, but I knew she wasn’t there. The only time she’s in herroom is when she’s going to bed.

Ieventually found Alex’s door, which was at the end of the corridor and startedbeating my fists against it repeatedly, causing the door to shake and trembleat the impact. Please let him be here. Iprayed. Please let him be here.

After the tenth knock, the door finally opened,revealing a very annoyed Alexander. “What. Are. You. Doing?”

I was trembling from head to toe. Not from Alex’s frostygaze, but from the fact that someone had just ruined my one and only safehaven. “Someone…was in my bathroom…while I took a shower.”

Alex blanched. “What?”

“I don’t know who it was. I didn’t see anything. The onlything I heard was the door opening, but I thought I imagined it. Then, when Iwas just about to get dressed there it was on my bathroom mirror.”

Alex closed the door behind himself and put his hands onmy shoulders. Just the touch of his hands seemed to calm my racing heart. Heeyed me worriedly. “What was on your mirror?” He grimaced. “Please, tell me itwasn’t an animal.”

I shook my head. I felt tears as they slid down my face.“It wasn’t an animal. It was just one word, written in blood, I think.”

“What was the word, princess?”

I took a deep breathbefore answering. “Die.” The word sounded ominous to me. I couldn’t help buttremble in fear.

“Do you mind showing me?” He seemed just as unsettled asI felt.

I didn’t reply. I just grabbed his wrist and dragged himback to my room.

It wasn’t even a minute later that we arrived back to mydoor and I was keying in the password. When I heard it unlocked, I threw mydoor open and immediately went straight to my bathroom. When I opened the door,I flicked on the light, and saw that the word Die was gone – like it had never been there in the first place.

“What?” I gasped.

Alex was right behind me as he too took in the cleanmirror above my sink.

“But it was here,” I said. “I saw it!” I dragged my handsthrough my wet hair in exasperation.

Alex pulled outboth his pistols and started walking slowly towards my closet, looking like apredator hunting for its prey. I clamped both my hands over my mouth to keepfrom screaming as I followed close behind him. Alex twisted the doorknob andthen threw the door open, his pistols aimed at whatever was hidden behind thedoor.

Fortunately, it was empty, except for my clothes andshoes. We breathed a sigh of relieve. I hadn’t realized that I had been holdingmy breath this entire time. Alex closed my closet door.

He looked at me in concern. “Are you alright?”

“No.” I said. I looked back at my mirror. All I couldthink of was blood every time I looked at it. “It was there. I know it was.”

Alex didn’t reply. He was putting his pistols away,trying to avoid looking at me, I guess. I had to admit that the guns fit him.When he had them strapped to his hips, he finally looked back at me, his faceunreadable.

“Ibelieve you. I know you wouldn’t make something up like that. Hell, especiallyafter all that’s been going on.”

“Thank you.”

“It’s no problem.”

Suddenly the thought of him leaving me in this roombecame unbearable. I didn’t want to be alone. “Do you…mind…staying. I’m scaredand I don’t want to be alone.”

“Sure.” he said.

I held the door open for him, a tantalizing smile formingon my lips. “Ladies first.”

Alex scoffed, but didn’t reply as he exited my bathroom.I was just about to turn off the light when I remembered something. In my hastyretreat, I vaguely remember leaving the bathroom light on. It was off when Alexand I returned. A cold chill seemed to slither down my spine. Who is doingthis? And why? I scanned my bathroom one more time, looking for any kind ofclue that might give me some sort of answer. When I didn’t replace any, I shut offthe light and closed the door.

I decided to wait untillunch to tell my friends about what happened last night. I was still a bitshaken up, but I tried to remain calm for my friends benefit. I wondered ifJordan knew already. With the kind of emotions I was feeling last night, Iwouldn’t be surprised if I had dragged him into my head. Then he would have rushed to your side if he thought you were in trouble,my subconscious said. That’s true too. Unless he saw me with Alex. I cringedinwardly. No doubt if Jordan did see, he’s more than likely going to give meanother Alex-is-dangerous speech.

When the bell rang and Mr. Xavier released us from class,(the bell doesn’t dismiss you – he does)Jordan, Morgan, Gabby, and I went straight to lunch and got in line. To myrelieve, it was short, with only five people in front of us, most of them thirdyear students. They seemed oblivious to our presence as they chatted with theirfriends about trivial things like the academy’s current gossip, and who wasdating who. I sighed, feeling bored. It’s always the same thing around here.

When we had our trays, we started heading towards ourusual table, which was in the center of the cafeteria, around all the differentgroups of students, like the nerds, rebels, and the popular, rich kids. Thisdimension really was no different than the Powerless world. As we neared ourtable, I noted that Scarlett and Mia were already seated there along with Mr.Grey. I was surprised to see him sitting at our table. I kept a poker face thewhole time as we took our seats. I listened as Mr. Grey greeted his twonephews, including Gabrielle, who blushed and murmured a greeting in return. Huh.I wonder what that’s about. Mr. Grey turned his friendly gaze towards me, akind smile on his face.

“Good afternoon, Spencer.”

“Hello, Mr. Grey.”

Jordan looked quizzically at his uncle. “Why are yousitting with us? I thought you had better things to do then hang out withimmature teenagers.”

“I have nothingbetter to do,” He mumbled, avoiding everyone’s eyes as he ate his lunch. Helooked kind of uncomfortable as we all stared at him

“Oh, I see,” Morgan said, wryly. “You just didn’t want toknock into Ms. Foster because she has that huge crush on you.”

Mr. Grey didn’t reply. He just continued eating his lunchas if Morgan hadn’t spoken.

I found myself not really hungry as I played with myfood. I was having a hard time replaceing my voice. I needed to tell them aboutyesterday, but every time I would replace the words to say I just couldn’t bringmyself to speak them. What if they overreact? What if Mr. Grey – being a teacher– tells Headmaster Death what happened? I don’t know if I’m ready to involve himyet.

Someone nudged my arm. It was Jordan as he looked at mein puzzlement. “What’s up with you?” he asked. “You haven’t spoken all day.” Heeyed my untouched food and frowned. “Are you ever going to bring up whathappened last night?”

I snapped my eyes shut. So he did know. But why didn’t hesay anything earlier? Not once did Jordan hint that he knew what happened lastnight. You would think he would have been worried and demanding answers. Infact, I vaguely remember him frowning every time he looked at me today. Iopened them and saw all my friends staring me with inquiring eyes. I took adeep breath and sighed. Here it goes.

I told them everything I told Alex as they satimmobilized in their seats, listening to my tale of horror. The only thing I leftout was Alex’s involvement. Jordan isn’t the only one who thinks Alex is alunatic. None of them would have approved. When I was finished, everyoneremained silent, not really sure what to say. Everyone, including Jordan,looked disconcerted.

Finally Mr. Grey spoke, “So you really don’t know who didit?”

“No. I was…distracted.” I tend to become oblivious toeverything around me when I shower. Though I wasn’t going to tell him that.

“Why didn’t you come get me?” Jordan demanded. “I couldhave protected you!”

I was confused. “I thought you knew.”

“I know about the otherthing that happened last night. But I didn’t know about that!”

I blanched at his words. He knew about Alex staying in myroom last night. Scarlett looked back and forth between us, her face curious.

“Whatother thing happened last night?”

“It’s nothing,” I replied, deadpan. Scarlett frowned,unconvinced. “It’s confidential. Something onlybetween Jordan and me.” I hope he heard the warning in my voice.

“Alright,” Jordan said. Obviously he was smart and pickedup on it. He eyed me sternly. “Later.”

I wanted to grimace. That was one conversation I was notlooking forward to.

“Don’t you think you need to talk to the Headmaster?”Gabrielle asked.

I groaned. “I don’t think I’m ready to involve anyoneyet. It will get all over the school and then I’ll be the talk of the townagain.”

“But you really need to talk to someone, Spencer.” Mr.Grey said. “You need someone to protect you.”

“I’ve got my N’Sync,” I said. Jordan grinned at that.“And besides I’m talking to you guys about it.”

“And that is good, but Jordan is still a Reaper intraining and you need to talk to someone who is more of a professional insituations like these. I mean, we don’t know who or what we might be dealingwith. It would be best to report thisincident. Maybe we can finally get the Board of Education to set up wardsaround the school.”

“I’m sorry,” Morgan said, exasperated. “But if theydidn’t take Spencer’s word last time, what makes you think they’ll believe heragain?”

“I don’t know,”Mr. Grey said. “But we got to do something.”

“Well, I think that decision is up to Spencer,” Mia said.Her words rendered everyone speechless. “She’s thirteen. Yes, in an adult’smind she is still a child, but I think others should respect her wishes – evenif they sound insane.”

I smiled at her.

“Mia’s right,” Scarlett said. “We’re her friends. Ifshe’s not ready for the Headmaster to know of these current events then weshould accept it without any questions.”

It took a lot of convincing, but in the end everyonesuccumbed and agreed to keep what happened last night a secret. Mr. Grey wasstill unsure, but promised not to say anything to anyone, especially theHeadmaster. I didn’t have to worry about Alex saying anything to anyone. I knewI could count on him to keep my secret.

All day as we went from class to class, I was dreadingthat conversation with Jordan. I kepttelling myself that I had done nothing wrong. I was scared last night and Ididn’t want to sleep in my room alone. When Mr. Grey had dismissed us fromtraining, I knew that it was only a matter of time before he started askingquestions.

As we were walking back to our dorm, I felt as he grabbedmy wrist, making me to come to halt.

“What?” I asked.

He was frowning, which wasn’t a good sign. “It’s later.”

“Jordan,” I groaned. “Do we have to do this now?”

“Yep,” He answered. I whined as he dragged me to thenearest picnic table. He released my wrist and patted the bench as he took aseat. ”Sit down, Spencer.”

“When did you get so bossy?” I asked as I plopped down beside him. Thewhole picnic table trembled, making me wonder if I was fat. I peeked down at myflat stomach. It must be the wood.

“Start talking.” he demanded.

I wanted to roll my eyes at him, but I stopped myself.The last thing I want is for us to fight. “What do you want to know?”

“I want to know why you let that creep stay in your roomlast night.”

“Alex is not a creep, Jordan! And the reason he stayedwith me was because I was scared. There. Now you have the whole story.”

“Where did he sleep?”

I had this sudden urge to hit him. I sighed inexasperation. “Why does it matter? He didn’t rape me!”

“Because I just want to know.”

I was on the verge of pulling my hair out. I just didn’tunderstand why it mattered so much. “He slept on the floor.” Jordan did doubletake at my words. Clearly, he did not expect that response. “You happy now.”

“Wait,” he said, befuddled. “He didn’t sleep in the bedwith you?”

“Nope,” I said. I was enjoying his startled reaction morethan I should have. “Now if you are done with the inquisitions for the eveningmay I please go back to my room so I can get some homework done?”

Jordan nodded mutely.

Without another word, I grabbed my backpack and headedstraight back to the dorm, feeling angry and more alone than ever.