Rich Bitches

& Witches
W. Kartal

And you seek pain like it is pleasure, like a

work of art
Lykke Li
Silent My Song

Chapter One
Rachel looked intently at her reflection in the mirror. She liked what she saw.
Her subtle make-up gave her face a bronze glow. Her Amazon-green eyes
sparkled against the raven-black backdrop of her thick hair.
She felt smug. She was usually never arrogant, but how could she not
complement herself at that moment?
She had to be confident. Her mothers company was very important and Rachel
would have to do her best to show the guests downstairs how functioned,
glamorous and polite she was. Of course, that wasnt a lie and she wouldnt need
to make that much of an effort. Rachel was very normal, considering the fact that
her family (which was basically made up of her and her mom) was one of the
elite, filthy rich Chicago socialites that dominated trendy, upper-class Lincoln
Park.
This gave Rachel many perks, though she didnt take them for granted. Rachel
cared about others and right now, she cared about being a good hostess (as good
as one can be with a butler, a chef and two maids) while her mom entertained the
many guests which were mostly her clients.
Just as she stepped away from the mirror, her mom walked into the bedroom.
Macy Worthington looked nothing like Rachel. She was over forty-five and cared
for her company just as much as she cared for her daughter.
Tonight she was wearing a glittery black, strapless gown. The dress was one of
her designs. Her make-up was heavy and her auburn locks were tucked neatly in a
bun. Her olive toned face had a few creases and wrinkles.
Rachel, when will you get out of your room and greet the guests? Most of them
have arrived now and so has Claire. Shes waiting for you, whispered Macy
urgently.
Rachel thought her mother looked like she would soon die of anxiety without a
drink.
Have you had a martini yet, Mom? she asked calmly.
What? No. And I dont plan to; Im not an unprofessional woman. This is
strictly a business party. The drinks are for the clients. Not me.
Mom, you need it. Appearance is also important and right now, you look like
youre stressed out. Thats equally unprofessional.
Her mom seemed to take her words into consideration and gave a deep sigh, I
suppose youre right. This new line is so different to what Worthington Couture
usually creates. I dont know if my older clientele will like it. I hope this party
gives them a positive outlook on the designs.
Rachel gave her a warm smile and together they both headed downstairs in their
high, Jimmy Choo heels.
Macy walked straight to the bar area as Rachel began greeting guests.
The front hall was full of people dressed in their formal best. The older women
were generally wearing long, flowing, lacy materials while the younger ladies
wore short cocktail dresses. The men were all mostly older and they were in
traditional tuxedos.
The shortest cocktail dress was worn by one of the youngest girls there. She was
also Rachels best friend, Claire Richards.
3

Rachel walked towards her and gave her an airy hug.

Rae! What took you so long? If I had to linger around these old fools any longer,
I swear I think I would have turned into one of them, said Claire as she looked
around disgustedly at the older people in the hall.
Rachel smirked. I already told you that these are my moms clients. And theyre
not any older than our mothers.
If Macy thinks that these conservative freaks would go for her new, updated
look then shes seriously mistaken.
Dont say stuff like that! Shes already stressing about it. Where are your
parents?
Theyre talking to the Logan family. Ive never seen a family as weird as theirs.
One daughter pregnant and with no clue who the father is, another in rehab
They are seriously messed up. Yet, by some miracle, they still have tons of
money.
Together, they went to sit in the huge guest room.
The couches were made of crimson Italian leather. The detailed embroidery on
the cushions was exceptional.
Claire knew she was rich and used it to her very advantage. She also didnt have
time for people of lesser status than her: intellectually and financially. She also
liked to gossip.
In many ways, Rachel and Claire were very different from each other.
Rachel often thought that opposites must really attract because ever since the first
grade together, the pair were inseparable. Although she disliked the superiority
that Claire possessed, she loved her charm and fun-natured personality.
Claire thought Rachel was a good friend because she was somewhat human
considering how privileged she was. That fascinated Claire but more often then
not, she thought it was stupid. She also thought Rachel was sometimes too nice
for her own good.
So, arent you just excited about Friday night? Claire asked Rachel in an
exaggerated manner.
Rachel gave a dazzling smile. It is going to be the best party in all of Chicago,
she said matter-of-factly. They squealed animatedly.
Its more personal for me, though, Rachel added very carefully, lowering her
tone.
What do you mean? Claire asked, interestedly.
Becoming slightly shy, Rachel said, Victor and I. Hopefully, if things go
smoothly, other things should go smoothly as well. You know what I mean.
Claire gave her an awestruck look.
Rae! No! I will not allow you to do it for the first time with a pig like Victor!
You know, youre the only one who has a problem with him. James, Laurie and
even George adore him! Its only you who has an issue with him. Weve been
dating for almost a year now. We all met him during our freshman year at high
schoolWhen are you going to leave him alone and get over it. Why cant you
be happy for me?
Rachel was now upset. In regards to almost everything else, they were agreeable,
but when it came to Victor, it was as if Claire had a death wish on him.
Rachel stared at Claire who was clearly suppressing the urge to yell.
A while passed and eventually, Rachel left a flustered Claire alone in the guest
room while she went to get drinks.
The front hall was emptier than before.

Mom must be showing them her new line, she thought.

As she walked to the bartender in the far corner of the hall, she thought of
something.
Maybe Claire was jealous. It sounded so petty but it fit Claires personality to the
tee.
It didnt make sense though. Claire was gorgeous herself. She was probably the
sexiest half-Japanese girl in school. Her light brown hair was cut in a short bob
and she was much curvier than the more petite Rachel.
Claire was voluptuous and could get any guy she wanted and it was well known
that she wasnt a virgin.
So what was the problem? Why did she despise Victor? Why couldnt she be
happy for her best friend?
Giving up, Rachel went back to the guest room.
Holding two apple martinis, she sat next to Claire and offered her one.
Claire accepted it and smiled, saying, Now that I have composed myself, I can
answer you. James is a dope-head who is easily impressed with anything and
everything. Laurie is more focused on school than any actual human being and
my poor brotherwell lets just say I think George is completely fooled. The point
is Im not! And I wont be. No one can fool me. When he hurts you, Ill be there
for you. That much, I can promise.
She then gave a weak smile.
Rachel was now even more confused and she shook her head. Claire, I dont
want to talk about this again. It just brings up anger from my side, apparent
frustration from your side and tension all around.
I couldnt have said it better myself! was the response as they both toasted to a
fabulous birthday party that was on its way.
The next morning, Rachel woke up unenthusiastically. She wasnt in the mood to
go to school but she had no choice.
She went to the bathroom to take a shower and brush her teeth.
Afterwards, Rachel wore her school uniform.
Being in a private school such as Margo Lee Academy was a high privilege;
however, the uniform was not very attractive. The girls had to wear a dark blue
tunic over a white shirt with a blue tie: on top of this, a black pullover and a dark
blue blazer. The blazer was optional, which meant it was rarely worn. The only
good thing about the uniform was the fact that girls could wear black heels of
medium heightalbeit with ankle length grey socks. She called on Maria, one of
the servants, to blow dry her hair as she put on lipstick and eyeliner.
In the kitchen was Picasso the chef, and her mom.
Morning Mom, Picasso, Rachel said as she entered the kitchen.
Hello my dear, said Macy as she gave Rachel a kiss on the cheek.
What can I make for you, maam? asked Picasso in his deep British accent;
already making an omelette for Macy by the stove.
No need, Ill just have coffee and a toast.
Macy was glowing with joy. It was a success! All that strain was for nothing!
They loved the new range.
See, I told you, Mom.
As Rachel sat by the marble faced kitchen counter, she sipped on her coffee and
took bites of her toast. Macy was seated beside her as she drank gulps of organic
orange juice.

There you are maam, said Picasso before he put down the plate of omelettes in
front of Macy.
Thank you.
Picasso then went to clear up the mess by the stove.
So, what did they say exactly? asked an inquisitive Rachel.
At first when I told them about it, they were sort of wary. Then I showed them
one of the pieces, you know that one with the open back; that gold one that you
love so much? And that seemed to convince them that my new creations are a hit!
Now I have to promote the line. I called a number of fashion magazines to
provide advertising space for the range before New York fashion week.
Rachel beamed. She was so happy for her mother who was genuinely hard
working. Three years ago her father died of a sudden heart attack, it didnt seem
likely that Macy would pick up the pieces and continue making Worthington
Couture a fashion house of utter elegance (as stated by Hollywood celebrities).
But here she was, three years later and gaining more popularity than ever.
After breakfast, Rachel said goodbye to her mom, grabbed her backpack and
headed to the parking lot, where a driver was waiting for her in a sleek, black
convertible
In the crowded courtyard of Margo Lee Academy, Rachel spotted James. He was
kissing a thin girl with blonde hair in the corner of the courtyard, beneath the
shadows of a tree; his own golden locks visible under the shadows.
Rachel made her way towards him and tapped his shoulder.
Hi, have you seen Victor? she asked.
Hey, Rae of sunshine, he said slowly as he turned to face her, flashing a
charming smile.
She waited.
He turned his back and continued making out with Blondie.
Rachel grew impatient and kicked the back of his right leg, which buckled into a
bend.
Hey!
I asked you something, James. Where is Victor?
He smiled at her againthis time a little genuinely.
Sorry, hes in the library.
Without thanking him, Rachel stalked her way to the library.
James Tweed was one of those people you either liked or you didnt: no inbetweens.
He was infamously known as a drug dealer among the teenagers of Chicagos
elite society. He was very charismatic, egotistical and arrogant. He was also a
player and very handsome.
James was also Victors good friend.
That meant Rachel had to put up with him. She still had to admit that he had a
certain magnetic spell about him. Eventually, he grew on her and she found a
way to put up with him.
It took her a while to reach the library. The school was very big and majestic. It
was built in the late nineteen-twenties. Over the many years, renovations
occurred so the buildings of the school now looked very modern except for the
brick-faced library. It was decided many years ago that the library would remain
in its traditional state to pay homage to the history of the school.

Only when absolutely necessary, were small renovations done to the building, but
other than that, the original structure still held strong for so many years.
When she went inside, Rachel immediately smelled the pages of old, worn out
books. The smell was alien to her. She never really took the time to read books.
She knew that Victor was a bookworm and he was most comfortable diving into
the pages of dramatic novels.
The walls of the library were covered with an infinite amount of bookshelves. In
the middle of the room was a large counter where Mrs Eddings, the ancient
librarian, sat behind. She was on the computer and her glasses were sliding off her
nose. A small tongue stuck out of her mouth. She was in deep concentration.
Rachel wanted to laugh. It didnt seem fair that an old lady like Mrs Eddings
should deal with the confusing ways of modern technology.
A warm hand gently touched hers.
She turned around and her day suddenly seemed a lot brighter.
Victor Cromweller was perfect. His eyes were a dark brown; his nose was straight
and pointy and his lips were thin and slender. The complexion of his skin was
that of a light olive tan and he had dark brown, short hair.
Hey, he whispered before giving her a long kiss, careful not to be seen by the
librarian.
Hey you, Rachel whispered back after they broke their embrace. She had a grin
of joy on her face that wouldnt want to go away. That was usually how she felt
when she was around her boyfriend.
They held hands as they left the library and strolled carelessly on the lush grass of
the school field.
Two more nights, said Victor. He gave her a flawless smile.
I know. I cant wait!
Rachel got excited as she thought of how her birthday party would turn out, and
what she anticipated would happen with Victor.
How do you feel? he asked.
Honestly? Nervous, exited, happy. I dont want todisappoint you.
Victor stopped abruptly in his tracks. He pulled Rachel close to his body and he
looked her squarely in the eyes.
There is nothing to be worried about. If you want to wait, thats not a problem
with me. We spoke about this. If you want to go ahead with it on your birthday, I
can assure that it will be a wonderful night to remember. It is completely and
totally up to you. I love you.
Rachel was relieved; she couldnt explain what she felt for him except total love
and admiration.
Im ready. I love you too. They gave each other another kiss before parting
ways to go to their separate classes.

Chapter Two
Following a boring school day, Rachel visited Claires house for the afternoon.
The Richards family was a mogul family. Jack Richards was a successful,
American business man. His wife, and Claires mother, Lily Richards was born
into a wealthy Japanese family that had moved to America a long time ago
Once married, they built together a strong standing, successful metal
manufacturing company called Manta-Steel.
The company expanded into a global phenomenon over ten years. Bigger
companies chose them for all their manufacturing needs and now the family was
probably richer than all the other Chicago socialites combined.
They lived in a mansion with ten bedrooms, three kitchens, four living rooms, an
entertainment room, a home theatre and a rooftop swimming pool.
The mansion stood on a lone hill adjacent to an enclosed conservational forest,
overlooking the rest of the swanky neighbourhood.
Rachel loved visiting the Richards household.
As they stepped out of the car in the driveway, Claire took Rachels hand and
shrilled, You are going to love my dress for Friday night!
Im sure I will, Rachel responded with equal enthusiasm.
They both stepped into the gigantic front hall of the house.
The floor was made of the finest golden tile. Two circular stairways ascended to
the second floor. On the ceiling was a lavish chandelier.
Rachel heard the click, click, clack of high heels to her right. She turned and
spotted Mrs Richards coming from the Grecian themed archway of the main
kitchen.
Rachel! How are you? Claire has not stopped talking about this party of yours!
She picked out her dress yesterday, oh it is simply to die for, squealed Mrs
Richards, extending her arms out for a hug.
Hi, Mrs Richards, replied Rachel as she hugged her back, I cannot wait to see
the dress, and you look very exquisite today! Off course, you look heavenly every
time I see you.
Oh, you flatter! she replied.
Claires mother was the perfect example of the spoilt, superior rich cow that was
disliked by everyone. Today, she was wearing a pair of tight jeans, sparkling
white high heels and a yellow shirt with its top buttons open, enough to show the
cleavage of plastic breasts. She had a curvy figure, like Claire, but unlike Claire
the evidence of a bad face lift was clear.
Her bleach blond hair was held up in a high ponytail and her face was painted
with expensive make-up. Her appearance was false, just like the permanently
phoney smile she lived with.
Rachel was mostly scared and disgusted by her but she always tried to be nice,
since there was no reason to cause a grudge.
Lets go to my room, said Claire.
They both went upstairs where Rachel spotted several servants cleaning away in
every corner.
They like to work, she noted to Claire.

Ha! Dont they all? Mother says that a clean house is the true reflection of the
owners heart.
Rachel gave a silent laugh. If that was true, then the house would have to be filthy
to show Mrs Richardss heart.
It was evident when they reached the door to Claires room. A silver sign covered
the door simply saying The Riches in a fancy, feminine font.
Thats new.
Claire chuckled. Like it? Daddy got it last week.
Claires bedroom was insanely extravagant.
The first thing noticeable thing was the purple walls.
In the far corner was a king sized four-poster bed in purple sheets.
The room was double the size of Rachels.
She sat on a single couch in the corner, where Claire opened the walk-in closet
alongside and pulled out a dress.
What do you think? Be honest, she said and held the hanger up to her head to
show the dress completely.
I like it!
The dress was a short, small fitted lacy material. It was strapless and looked like
something out of a Shakespearian play (even though it was very short). It was a
dull beige colour but overall it looked absolutely fashionable and absolutely
Claire.
After several fittings and general amusement, the girls settled into the family
lounge where they started on their homework.
Hows your Grandma? Rachel asked.
Claire looked up from her Spanish textbook. Shes seen better days. The doctors
say that we should bring her home since she wont last much longer anyway. She
should pass on comfortably, at least.
Thats a little harsh, dont you think?
Its the truth, Rae. My dad has actually gone to fetch her right now.
Oh? Im sorry, sweetie but I guess its the way of life. People get old and then
they die.
Claire shook her head. Dont apologise. Its no ones fault. I love her but Ive
learned to let go. It will be better for her to get out of the hospital now. She
doesnt deserve to live her last day in the place she hates the most.
Rachel looked at the time. It was seven o clock in the evening.
My mom should arrive soon, she said.
Sure enough, a few minutes afterwards, the door of the family lounge opened and
Macy stepped into the room. Today, she wore a pink tank top, a long black skirt
and pink pumps. She seemed tired after a long day at the office.
There you are, Rae.
Hello, Mom.
Its nice to see you, Claire. What did you think of my party last night?
That depends on whether the evening was a success or not, Mrs Worthington,
said Claire charmingly.
Macy chuckled. I can assure you that the outcome was excellent.
In that case, I loved the party; will you be staying for dinner? My grandma
should arrive at any moment.
Oh no, we have to head home, unfortunately. I did hear about her. Im so
relieved the hospital agreed to let her out. When I spoke to your mom on the
phone earlier, she sounded cheerful about her mothers return.

She is, and thanks for your concern, Mrs Worthington.

Macy nodded in condolence. Where is Lily anyway?
She should be in her office.
Ill go look for her. Rachel, well be leaving soon, said Macy. She turned away
and walked out of the family room.
Rachel started packing away her school books.
Claire took a deep breath, she suddenly seemed melancholy.
Whats up?
Oh, its nothing. Claire hesitated.
Claire, come on. I know you want to tell me something. Whats wrong?
I do want to tell you. And I will, in my own time.
Are you sure?
Claire seemed convinced. She put on her charming smile, but the smile didnt
reach her eyes.
Rachel was worried. Something didnt seem right about her friend. And she was
annoyed with herself for not realising earlier on in the day.
She couldnt force the matter either.
You let me know when youre ready to talk. Okay?
Claire nodded again.
Then there was an awkward silencethe type of silence that never really existed
around the loquacious Claire.
Standing up, Rachel said goodbye to her and searched for her mom in the huge
house.
She found her in one of the upstairs rooms which was Mrs Richardss office.
She knocked on the half open door as she stepped in.
Lily Richards office was big and spacious, but the dark Persian carpet and the
deep-red painted walls gave the room a dark, gloomy feel. There was a huge oak
table in the centre with a laptop perched on top of it. A plasma screen television
hanged on the wall and a statue of a naked woman was standing in the corner of
the office.
I was just telling your mother that it is really not hospitable of me to let you go
without having supper with us, Mrs Richards said to Rachel, half-heartedly.
We would love to stay Lily, but I have to take care of a few things at home. Its
been a long day, answered Macy with a smile.
Oh all right then, said Mrs Richards a bit too quickly and a bit too eagerly.
Rachel and Macy left soon afterwards.
That night, Rachel had a weird dream; a dream that wouldnt end.
It was the type of dream that started when you sleep and ended in the morning
when you wake up.
It wasnt a good dream, nor was it a nightmare. It was a merge of the two, and it
was eerie.
At first, Rachel was walking towards a short, rectangular structure. It looked like
a big coffin with a door on its side. In the dream, she was wearing nothing. She
was completely naked, though she wasnt anxious about that. For some reason it
didnt bother her.
She was anxious about meeting the person inside.
When she knocked on the door, a thin figure stepped into her view. She could
make out the shape of the person but couldnt see their face. The darkness of the
room leaked onto Rachels skin.

10

Come in. It was a female voice. A hoarse voice which sounded like it had
endured years of smoking.
Something inside of Rachel got very excited. She had wanted to come here for so
long and now here she was, about to fulfil her deepest desire.
Yet, why was her forehead soaked with sweat? And why was something deep
inside her aching to run away?
The strangers hand gestured to a rickety old stool by a small wooden table.
Rachel entered the building and sat on the stool.
That was when the dream started over again.
It was very frustrating.
When Rachel eventually woke up, she realised that her heart was pounding and
her forehead was, in actual fact, soaked.
She got up from bed and went to the mirror.
She was aghast.
Her hair looked more like a lions mane. Her eyes had dark circles around them
and her skin had turned to a pale grey.
She looked at the clock on the wall. She had about two hours to get ready for
school.
Need all the time I can get, she told the sickly looking person in the mirror.

11

Chapter Three
Its time, Rachel thought to herself on the night of the party.
The guests had already arrived and Claire was helping her with the final details
on her attire.
Rachel was wearing a black and gold dress made of soft silk. It was loose fitting
and very comfortable. Her hair was intricately detailed in a high ponytail.
She had dark red lipstick on and thick mascara. Her earrings were hoops and her
perfume was the latest DKNY.
She looked over at Claire who was also very fancy tonight. The tight fitted dress
she showed Rachel two days ago was indeed the one she wore tonight. It hugged
her curvy body and Claire took pleasure in that fact.
The way she walked had a different air to it. Her short tresses were curly, which
Rachel thought, suited her heart faced shape.
Rae, I think were ready to come out now, said Claire excitedly.
You think its time? Dont you think we should wait until everyone gets here?
Why? Although I think being fashionably late is appropriate for most occasions,
I dont believe you should be tactless enough to hold yourself in your bedroom
when the party is happening in your own house, youre just having last minute
jitters
Im too excited, I think, suggested Rachel, who really did feel as if exhilaration
was pulsing in her veins.
That is a dumb excuse, Claire said flatly. Mostly everyone is downstairs,
anyway.
She then took a firm grip on Rachels wrist and led her out to the top of the
staircase, where they could see the colourful array of people all huddled up in the
front hall, waiting for the guest of honour.
Guys and gals, Claire announced in an audible voice, Its time to introduce
the lady of the evening, a stunning swan, the only warm hearted, rich socialite
around (so dont think youll be invited to one of my parties), the gorgeously
marvellous Rachel Rae Worthington!
The guests cheered with loud voices and clapped for her.
At that point, Rachel was already at the bottom of the stairs hugging and greeting
the guests, glad that everything was running smoothly at present.
Rae! Happy, fucking birthday! was Jamess birthday wish.
Language, James! she reprimanded him lightly as they hugged each other.
All our gifts were placed in the guest room.
Thats not important, Im just glad all my friends and acquaintances are here to
party and have fun! Rachel said merrily.
Spoken like a true lady.
On the south side of the room, the DJ was busy playing energetic dance tunes.
Rachel could recognise the rhythmic beats of a David Guetta track. The crowd
cleared slightly as people went either onto the designated dancing area in the hall,
or to the guest room.
Laurie Tweed, Jamess older sister by one year approached Rachel.
Happy Birthday! she said as she too gave Rachel a warm hug.
12

Thanks Laurie. How have you been? I havent seen you in a while.
Yeah, I know. Ive just been busy with school. You guys have a warning in
advance; senior year is tough! Books, books, books! Thats all I ever live for
nowadays!
Sis, youve been living for books your entire life, James pointed out.
Yeah, James but its suddenly amplified now, and dont start with me. All you
do, literally, is smoke pot and get high. Literally.
James gave a sly laugh, At least I have a social life.
I prefer to and choose not to have one, smiled Laurie.
Rachel stared at her in awe. For the many, many years that shed known the
Tweeds, not once had Laurie ever changed her personality and academic ability.
Even as a youngster, Laurie was a literature loving type of person. She always
had a passion for school. Rachel admired that and was mostly proud of calling
her a friend. Laurie was pretty. She had the same, blonde colour hair as James
and sparkling blue eyes.
The Tweed family was respected among other socialite families. Rachel thought
that ignorance was indeed bliss because none of the parents knew James was a
drug dealer.
Laurie often showed her revulsion towards his decision but was mostly
preoccupied with her own life to show interest. She did threaten to tell now and
again but James always worked his charming magic and she usually softened up.
The Tweed siblings had a strong friendship that was, most of the time, a love-hate
affiliation. Rachel had no doubt, however that they cared for each other.
Rachel was smitten by that. She never had a sibling and often wondered what it
would be like to have one when she saw the connection between Laurie and
James. Claire also had a sibling. A younger brother named George, but their age
gap was greater. Claire was sixteen turning seventeen, while George was twelve
turning thirteen.
Stop bickering, the two of you! Just enjoy the party! Rachel said to them,
grinning from ear-to-ear.
James and Laurie gave her sparkling smiles, before departing to the dance floor.
As they started walking away, Rachel realised something.
Wait, James!
He came back to see what she wanted.
Listen and listen well. I dont want any dealing here tonight, she bluntly said.
He stared at her with indignation, Why? Its the perfect opportunity to earn
some cash. Were friends! Why wont you let me sell?
Its my party. Are you seriously going to upset me in this way? And cut the crap
James, we all may need a lot of things, but money isnt one of them! Why do you
do it, anyway? Do you know how cheap and ethically wrong it isAnd how bad
it makes you look?
That seemed to shut him up. He gave an unwilling smile and walked away.
Rachel was relieved to have put him in his place, though she felt a slight twinge of
guilt.
She shrugged it off immediately. Tonight was not a night to think of other people.
Tonight was her night.
She danced with all the large crowd of people, letting loose and having fun.
Everyone glanced at her with bright faces as they shook their bodies to the
rhythmic music the D.J was playing, which happened to be a remixed version of
a Drake song.

13

Victors face popped out of the crowd.

You look beautiful! he roared above the music.
Thanks, you dont look to bad yourself, mister, Rachel said loudly.
In truth, he looked like a runway model. He was wearing a loose fitted, white
shirt which was unbuttoned at the top with long, navy pants and black sneakers.
Rachel was impressed. Victor looked so calm and relaxed with the clothes he was
wearing. His hair was spiked up perfectly and he had a genuine smile on his
bronze face.
What do you think of my party? Rachel asked as he gently took hold of her
body, his hands by her waist.
Ah, its too soon to tell. The cake hasnt even been cut yet, the presents havent
been opened. No, I cant give you an answer just as yet, he said, grinning.
Rachel giggled.
They held each other close for quite some time, though Rachel didnt really know
how long they were embracing each other; she was enjoying the moment with the
person she loved.
Rachel looked up at Victor. I love you, she said without hesitation.
He replied instantly. I love you, too.
Lets give it another hour. I want to spend some time here before we go up to
my room, Rachel said.
He acknowledged that with ease and simply said, Whatever you wish, Rae.
Claire trotted towards them almost from out of nowhere.
Spotting Claire, Victor immediately stiffened his back and held onto Rachel
tighter.
Claire flatly ignored him and turned her face to Rachel.
Rachel gaped at them in disbelief. She couldnt believe that they could still act the
way they were acting even on her birthday. Of course, it was no surprise, but
Rachel hoped that the pair would set aside their differences at least for one night.
Rachel, come. Lets have a few drinks, Claire said in an annoyingly nasal
voice.
Rachel looked at Victor.
No, please. By all means, have fun, he said and dolefully walked away.
Oh, just ignore him! Anyway, I never knew you invited Willow Logan! Claire
said, trying desperately to avert the subject from Victor.
I didnt invite her! Rachel said immediately, her attention tuned to Claire.
The two of them walked to the bar area, where they drank a vodka shot each.
Well, look behind you, whispered Claire as she handed the glass back to the
barman, Another one, she demanded.
Rachel turned around. There, in the darkest corner of the room was the
unmistakably dubious Willow Logan. She was leaning against the wall of the
opposite side of the room. She looked lost, as if she didnt know why she was
there.
I didnt invite her! I would never invite her! Maybe my mom did
Well, ask her, Claire said, as if it was the most logical thing in the world.
What?
Go to her and ask her what the hell shes doing at your party!
Claire, I dont know. I cant just go up to the poor girl...Thats kinda rude dont
you think?
Oh, just come on! moaned Claire and she grabbed hold of Rachels hand and
led her towards the lonely girl in the corner of the room.

14

Hi, Claire said brusquely as she stopped in front of Willow, Rachel right behind
her.
Slowly, Willow looked at them.
She was not very pretty, but there was something mysterious about her eyes.
They were a golden colour and even under the darkness of the room, they seemed
to shine brightly. She had a beaky nose and thin lips. Her vivid blonde hair was
held in an untidy ponytail. She wore a pair of skinny jeans and a shimmering grey
top.
Hello, Claire. She didnt give the impression of being happy.
Claire looked enthusiastically at Rachel, hinting at her to speak.
Rachel got the hint.
Um, hi Willow, how are you? she said and moved towards her a bit.
As if seeing her for the first time, Willow focused on Rachel and suddenly
stiffened with tension.
Rachel, Im good and you?
Her face was repulsed. Something about her expression gave Rachel shivers.
Rachel glanced at Claire who looked very worried all of a sudden; she too saw
the hostility that Willow exuded.
Very well, thank you, said Rachel. She became very alert; she didnt want to
say anything that might irritate Willow; let alone ask her to leave the party.
Oh, happy birthday, Willow added disconcertedly.
Thank you.
Then, for a few moments the three of them stared at each other. Rachel had a
silent argument with herself. She wanted to tell Willow to bugger off, but at the
same time, her kind nature told her to be friendly and tolerant. But she didnt
want Willow to be at the party; that was why she never invited her in the first
place.
It didnt fit the recluse Willows personality to even attend these types of social
gatherings.
Coming to a decision, Rachel decided to let Willow stay.
Well, I hope you enjoy yourself, she said and walked back to the bar, Claire
trailing right behind her.
What was that, Rachel? Claire snapped, You were supposed to kick her out!
Not make her feel even more welcome!
Yeah, I know, but I couldnt do it! Look at her! She looks really sad under all
that menace. Maybe she just wanted to get out and have fun.
Fine, whatever, but if she causes havoc here we all know who to blame.
Why would she cause havoc? All we know about her is that shes a little crazy
and left school for a year to attend rehab. Shes obviously just come out of rehab.
Claire hated being wrong. She wasnt giving up without a reasonable comeback.
Rae! I cant accept this! You are too nice for your own bloody good! I will go
there and kick her out myself if you dont have the guts to do it.
Fine, go! Claire, Im sick of you right now, to be honest, Rachel said, rolling
her eyes.
Rachel made her way towards the centre of the dance floor, where she enjoyed
the music and the people. Forgetting about Claire and her drama for one minute
was a very peaceful feeling.
My girl, whispered someone in her ear.
The person quickly moved to face her. It was Victor, of course it was.
So, how was your escapade with the evil demon in a girls body?

15

What? Rachel asked confused. Oh, Victor, are you upset? She just dragged me
with her. But dont speak like that, though.
Im not upset; Im just annoyed with her and with you. You should stick up for
yourself more often, Victor said.
Ive been friends with her since nursery school. Trust me; I have learnt how to
deal with Claire Richards.
How about we go up to your room now? Victor suggested.
Rachel thought about it. She had waited for this moment for so long. Her heart
started beating faster. A rush of excitement and anxiousness fused in her body.
This was it.
She couldnt hold it back any longer and she wanted to experience it for the first
time with no-one else but Victor.
Lets go, she said simply.
He took her by the hand and pushed the crowd out of the way as he exited the
dance floor. Together, they went up the stairs and into Rachels bedroom. Victor
closed the door and locked it. She looked at him and he looked at her.
Then, they started kissing. Rachel registered all of it and her anxiousness
disappeared, in its place a new sensation grewlust.
She gripped his shirt and flung it off his body; he too did the same with her dress
and her bra. The kissing never stopped as they fell onto the bed. Rachels hands
took hold of any inch of his muscular body that was within reach. She wanted to
consume him. She wanted to feel him within herIt was an impulse which she
couldnt escape or control.
His hands reached her breasts and rubbed them smoothly, her nipples instantly
perked up.
She grabbed hold of his neck and kissed it; the smell of fresh cologne on his skin
was irresistible. She unbuckled his belt with difficulty as his tongue made its way
to her nipples and his hand shifted between her legs. Victor hurriedly pulled off
her thin, lacy g-string.
Rachel dropped his pants on the floor. They were then completely naked and full
of passion. Hastily, he bent to the side of the bed and took out a square wrapper
from the pocket of his pants. He ripped it open and took out the condom which
was in it. After rolling on the condom, they re-position themselves. Victor slowly
entered her.
At first, Rachel felt deep pressure and then pain. The deeper he went, the more
the pain intensified. But Rachel didnt want him to stop. She needed him to
continue, to turn the pain into pleasure. A slow moan erupted from her lips.
How is it?
It hurts, but dont stop.
Are you sure?
He panted against the rhythmic movement of his body against hers.
Rachel nodded. Hush now, she said mildly.
About forty minutes later, the two reappeared downstairs. The party was still in
full swing and no one seemed to have noticed that the pair had disappeared.
Rachel felt elated. She couldnt help but put a smile on her face. It all worked out
perfectly. They didnt rush it, and even afterwards, the exhausted couple lay
down on her bed and talked. It was all very natural, Rachel wasnt self-conscious
and Victor was superbly talented.
Rachel, someone called from her left.

16

It was Macy. Rachels smile vanished.

Mom, what are you doing here? Come on, you promised you would trust me
enough to host my own party. Alone.
Macy looked at her with annoyance. Can I talk now? she asked.
Rachel realised there was something important Macy had to tell her. What is it,
whats the matter? she asked her mom.
Since I was forced out of my house for your party, Macy started, I went to
Lily and Jack for the evening, as you very well know. We had a few drinks; we
were laughing, playing cards, eating chocolate The more she talked, the more
her eyes built up with tears.
Rachel took her hand and softly asked, Mom, please. Are they all alright? Are
you alright?
As Macy nodded, the tears dropped down to her cheeks, Yes, we are all fine,
except for Lilys poor mother.
Rachel finally registered what this was about, She passed on. Aw, Mom but we
all knew that was coming.
Victor spoke for the first time during this conversation. Did something else
happen, Mrs Worthington?
Rachel turned her cheek towards his chest and rested her head there, on that
warm, comfortable chest. She didnt enjoy bad news. She was frightened of bad
news; to know that something was wrong, but not knowing what it was exactly.
That was what frightened her the most.
Macy faced them, wanting to tell them without having to repeat herself. She
couldnt bear to repeat herself. It was sickening to even think of it, let alone say it
out loud.
Poor, old Lulu Richardsshe did pass away tonight.
Rachel closed her eyes and waited, that was not the news that Macy needed to
tell them. And sure enough, after a second, the worst news of all, the
mysteriously eerie news of all was came.
She was murdered. Someone in that house killed an old woman on her
deathbed, Macy whispered as her tears erupted again. She couldnt stop.
Rachels own cry began as she gasped.
Victors shock wasnt that of grief or interest.
He didnt need to be curious. The mysterious air of the murder didnt affect him.
The thing that affected him was the fact that it actually happened. He didnt
believe it could happen. That someone would have the guts to kill a defenceless
woman. But it happened. And he knew exactly who the culprit was.

17

Chapter Four
After the initial shock that possessed Rachels entire being, she soon registered
the details of the tragic event. Macy told her and Victor that a gunshot was heard
from upstairs while she, Lily and Jack were downstairs in the family
entertainment room.
The gunshot came from Grandma Lulus bedroom, where she was resting in a
warm bed with wires attached to her chest via a heart monitoring machine. They
all froze with a paralyzing fear when they heard the shot, and waited. They could
clearly hear the murderer jump out of the upstairs window, land firmly onto the
outside garden and run out of their gate. All of that lasted at maximum for about
ten seconds. The person was quick and agile. It was later discovered that the
culprit shot the security guard too, probably when they trespassed into the house.
Jack went to observe his wifes mothers body; he confirmed that she was dead.
The bullet had smashed her skull open. Her face was unrecognizable and her
head was covered with blood. With shaking hands, he called the police who
quickly arrived with three bodyguards to spend the night with the Richards
family. That was when Macy rushed back home to inform Claire about what
happened, who called her driver and devastatingly went to her house.
Rachel was dumbstruck. She couldnt believe that all that happened while she
was in a state of passion with Victor. A part of her felt guilty. Another part of her
wished that she had waited a while so as to be with Claire when she heard the
bad news.
Mom, I dont know what to sayIm Her voice withered away as she tried
to speak.
Someone very quickly killed another person. They entered a secure residence and
easily did the job. Then they rushed out, without being seen.
Those were the facts.
Rachel couldnt comprehend the truth. It made her feel vulnerable to the dangers
lurking in the dark.
Something suddenly occurred to her then.
Mom, but they have cameras!
What? Macy asked.
Rachel bent down to face Macy, who had seated herself at the bottom of the
stairs. They have cameras in their halls! Surely that bastard would be caught by
the cameras.
Macy shook her head. He came through the bedroom window. There arent any
cameras in the bedrooms.
Rachel sighed. Oh.
Do you want to escape? Macy asked her daughter, a sudden glint of excitement
in her eyes.
Rachel gave her a wary look. Mom, we cant be jetting off to a new and exotic
country every time something bad happens.
Macy shrugged. Sure we can! Remember the year your father passed away?
How amazing was South Africa? Cape Town was simply perfect, plain and

18

simple. And you cant deny that it at least made the pain of his death a little more
bearable.
Rachel took a deep breath. South Africa was an amazing place. She had been
fourteen when her father died, and Macy was on the brink of going completely
insane. So she spontaneously left everything here in Chicago and flew with her
daughter to Cape Town. Rachel remembered being hopeful. She hoped the trip
would make her mother feel better. Even just a little bit. And it did. Once they
returned home, Macy found a new energy and spent all of it on work. That is
what she had continued doing up until the present.
Mom, that was different. That was in our family. And I just feel like I have to be
here for Claire, you know?
Macy took a while before answering. You are such a good person. Im so proud
to call you my daughter.
Rachel was touched. She gave her mother a peck on the cheek. And Im glad to
have you as my mother.
Eventually, the crowd of partiers dispersed. They were all curious as to why
Macy was on the stair, hiccoughing with tears in her eyes.
Rachel just forced a smile and thanked them for coming.
When Laurie and James gave her goodbye hugs, they asked if everything was
alright. Rachel looked at her mother, who told them a vague version of what
happened.
So, she died? But was murdered? How? When? asked Laurie, who was coupled
with grief and devastation.
Everyone else is all alright, there are bodyguards there now and the police are
busy investigating. Just leave it for now. Go home. Phone them if you must but
theyre all grieving, Macy muttered under the rumpled, auburn hair covering her
face.
Laurie nodded understandingly. Lets go, James.
Are you coming Vic? Well drop you off, or you can chill at our place tonight,
said James.
Rachel squeezed Victors hand. Go baby, its alright. Im okay.
Okay, he muttered under his breath, looking distracted. Rachels couldnt
blame him.
The house was littered with empty paper cups and confetti. Rachel sat beside her
mother at the bottom of the stairs. They stared blankly at the two servants
cleaning the floor in front of them.
Macys sobbing subsided. She was leaning her head against the railing.
I thought I was going to die, Macy began. There were those few seconds when
we stood still, in silence after hearing the gunshot, in which I thought I was going
to die. I thought of you. I though of what would happen to you. Where would
you have gone; an orphanage, Claires place? But then, I realised I wouldnt want
you living in the place I got killed. Rachel, ever since your father died, Ive
thrown myself to my company. Dont get me wrong, if I never paid any attention
to Worthington Couture, we wouldnt have been living the life were living now. I
havent thought of you enough though, and in those few seconds I realised just
how important you are to me. And ImIm embarrassed, Im upset at the fact
that it took me a moment of fear for my own life to realise how important you are
to me.

19

Rachel was touched. She knew all to well that Macy was not giving herself
enough credit.
She was as good a mother could be with a richly successful clothing company.
Rachels fondness for her mother grew within those heartfelt words.
Mom, its just you and me. You dont need to explain yourself to me. No matter
how busy or preoccupied we might be with our lives, our bond can never break.
Youre way better than other parents in this messed up society, Rachel pointed
out.
Oh, like who?
Rachel thought a while. I know one person. Though, under the circumstances, I
dont think itll be best to mention her right now.
Macy smirked. Lily?
Thats the one.
Shes not that bad.
But youre better than her. You take the time for me when you can. I appreciate
that.
You think well be safe tonight? asked Macy. She had been thinking of the
murderer ever since he killed Lulu.
Most probably, Rachel said. The attack was at their house, not ours.
An hour later, Rachel slipped under the covers of her cold bed. She took pleasure
in a few thoughts of her and Victor in the darkness of her room. It seemed like a
lifetime ago when she lost her virginity.
It was such a significant experience in a womens life and now it was all over for
Rachel. She wasnt sad or disappointed. On the contrary, she felt content with
how the experience was. But deep down, she felt a sense of loss. She had waited
for the right person for so long. Well, not that long, but still; was there a bit of a
rush to it? Should she have waited longer? Suddenly, the thing that was so near
and dear to her heart, her virginity, was lost.
The past year was a remarkable one shared with Victor.
Being able to have sex with him at any time she wanted would surely boost their
relationship. What if it just destroyed their love? What if their social and
emotional relationship was lost along the way? Would that mean that they would
just be sex buddies? Rachel shut her eyes and pushed those thoughts away. She
tried to think of something else.
She was now officially seventeen! She was proud of how far she had come. Her
fathers death was hard to overcome but she managed to move on. She thought
about him a lot, though. She thought about how he used to smell. It was a
comforting, safe smell. She also missed his friendly smile and illuminating
presence. Most of all, she missed the profound effect he had on her mother.
Macy used to be carefree and fun. She was happy when she was around him.
After his death, she not only threw herself at work, but she also lost that carefree
attribute forever.
Rachel sighed heavily.
Life knew how to balance the good and the bad.
Now, there was a murderer on the loose. She was scared about that; very scared.
She got goose-bumps just by thinking about it. How could someone have the
nerve, the calmness, to enter unnoticed into another persons residence and shoot
someone inside? Then after that be able to just jump out of a double storey
window, with accurateness?

20

Rachel apprehended something. The killer was well-built and intelligent. He was
able to climb a double storey building and enter through the exact window where
his victim was. He planned this to the tee. He mustve spent months preparing for
the attack. What if it was a woman? Although the chances were slim, it was still a
possibility. There were lots of possibilities. Maybe the Richards family had
enemies. Maybe Lulu had pissed someone off.
Rachel thought for quite a while before, eventually falling into a troubled
slumber.
Early on the following morning, Rachel and Macy got in the back of their BMW
coupe and asked the chauffeur to drive them to the Claires house.
It was an unspoken agreement that they would naturally visit them and see if
everything was alright.
When they reached their house, Rachel grew slightly nervous. The house had
seen death. It was frightening.
She saw another car parked on the driveway.
Whose car is that? she asked her mom.
Macy just shrugged. It resembles one the Tweed cars
Stepping into the house, the servant showed them the way to the where the
distraught family was.
They were lead into the lounge. This part of the house was situated downstairs,
next to the family room. It consisted of a piano, a vintage style sofa set and a red
Persian carpet. It was small, compared to the other rooms in the house.
Seated on the single sofa was Claire. She was in her pyjamas and looked upset.
Sitting on the larger sofa were Lily, Jack, Laurie and George, Claires younger
brother.
He was a chubby boy of twelve years old and had a thick, dark head of hair and
his face consisted of pimples.
Lily and Jack were wearing night robes. For once, Lily couldnt be bothered with
her appearance. She was surrounded by close friends and family.
Laurie smiled when Rachel and Macy entered the room.
Hi everyone, said Macy.
They all mumbled greetings and Rachel sat alongside her mother on the vacant
sofa.
Wheres your brother? Rachel inquired.
He came with me but left a few minutes ago, Laurie answered.
Rachel was confused. How long have you been here?
About four hours.
That was strange. Laurie didnt even like Claire.
Right on queue, Laurie answered sincerely, Weve all known each other since
childhood, and this is a devastating situation.
Rachel nodded, agreeing solemnly. If a bad situation could bring people together,
then she wouldnt complain.
Whats happened? Any news? she asked Claire.
Claire shook her head. No, the police spent the whole night investigating the
place. The bodyguards were annoying. We watched a playback of the camera for
the upstairs hall but there was nothing. The guy knew what he was doing. He
snuck in through my grandmas bedroom window.
Macy, Lily and Jack were having a silent conversation.
Lets go outside, suggested Laurie.

21

Rachel and Claire agreed and went out the back door to the large garden.
The garden was heavenly. There were mature grapevines slithering along the
pillars of the porch. Worn out benches covered the sides of the garden. The best
feature was the tall water fountain which dominated as the centrepiece.
Rachel immediately felt tranquillity radiate her soul. She glanced over at her two
friends. They also seemed peaceful.
I love it out here, whispered Claire, basking in the sunlight.
Its beautiful, Laurie agreed.
Rachel smiled. Where are your parents, Laurie? I havent seen them in like, over
a month.
Laurie rolled her eyes. My dad has gone to Korea for business and my mothers
travelling around the world with her girlfriends.
Thats horrible! Rachel said without thinking. She immediately wished she
thought of a more tactful approach.
Claire lightly slapped her on the arm.
Im sorry, that was rude, Rachel said.
No, no, dont be. Its true. My parents were never like this. Recently theyve just
been jetting around the world. I dont know how to cope. Maybe theyre having a
midlife crisis. James is now completely off the rails, he goes partying almost every
night and I cant stop him. He doesnt listen to me. Mother phones every now
and then but its just not fair! I dont need to deal with this shit!
Laurie, if you want to, you could always stay with one of us until your parents
arrive, both you and James. Im upset that you didnt tell us earlier, said Claire.
Thanks guys and I know Im always welcome but its not necessary. She phoned
on Tuesday, saying that shell be home by Monday. So Ive got an extra two
days. Dont worry though; everything is all right, honestly.
The splitter splatter of water pouring from the fountain hummed from the
distance. It occurred to Rachel how difficult other peoples lives were. She felt
bad for Laurie and James. When they went home every day for the past month,
the house was empty. Rachel shuddered. She couldnt even imagine how terrible
that had to feel.
Hows George coping with everything? she asked Claire.
Claire just shook her head. Not well. Hes terrified that were all going to die.
Im so sorry. No one deserves that. The fact that it happened to my best
friend
Rae, its all over now! How was your party by the way? I hope I didnt miss
anything important. I didnt even say goodnight Claire said, changing the
subject.
The party was the least of my concerns when I heard what happened. Honestly,
we didnt even cut the cake, but I dont care. Everyone left pretty soon anyway.
What about your special gift? Claire asked sneakily. No matter how tragic
circumstances were, she was still inquisitive.
Rachel warily shifted her gaze to Laurie. She didnt want to talk about that in
front of her because Laurie had more conservative views. She didnt believe in sex
before marriage. If Rachel spoke openly about losing her virginity in front of her,
all hell could break loose.
Claire realised she shouldnt have mentioned it and kept quiet.
What special present is this? asked Laurie.
I dont know what youre talking about, Claire. I havent had time to open the
gifts yet.

22

Ha! Right! How silly of me. Claire shook her head and frowned,
exaggeratingly. Silly me, she whispered.
Laurie looked suspiciously at the pair of them.
Rachel gave a cautious smile. She had nothing against Laurie. They were good
friends. It was just that she didnt feel like explaining herself to Laurie. Victor
used a condom and Rachel made sure of that, so she didnt necessarily feel that
what she was wrong. She just didnt feel the need to spill all the details. There
were those friends who you didnt tell everything to. Laurie was one of those
people.
When Rachel and Claire were alone they could discuss everything, thought
Rachel. Now was not the time.
On Monday morning, first period was Chemistry. Rachel didnt like the subject.
Luckily, though, she had James to talk to, who was her lab partner. Today the
students were doing a practical investigation so there was a buzz of voices in the
class.
James was very silent which was surprising.
Everything all right? asked Rachel, nudging him on his side.
He nodded. Yeah, just stuff at home.
Rachel understood. Laurie told me about your parents.
James stiffened. He suddenly seemed infuriated. He gave Rachel a dark look and
then continued with the investigation; not saying another word.
Rachel was embarrassed. She was way out of line, but the damage was done.
James would argue with Laurie and ask why she went around spilling family
details. He would be wary of Rachel for a long timeOr, he would eventually
shrug it off.
Rachel helplessly sat at the desk and watched as James silently poured a small
amount of hydrochloric acid into a beaker.
She heard the door of the classroom creak open. She turned to face the source of
the noise and sudden interest engulfed her classmates.
Well, well, well whispered Claire, who was seated a few desk behind Rachel.
Willow Logan had officially returned to school. She stood awkwardly facing the
class.
Mrs Hartland looked at her with annoyance. She had a frown on her face.
Willow, youre back. Its been a while, she said, coldly.
Willow smiled weakly and handed the teacher a small pile of paperwork from the
front office.
After a minute, Mrs Hartland directed her to an empty seat at the back of the
class, close to Claire.
Willow sat there and put her school bag on the empty chair beside her. Claire
gave her an intimidating glare.
How was the rehab?
Rachel sighed. Claire would always be Claire; no point in denying that, but, at
that moment Rachel was pissed off with her. Why was she being so rude to
Willow?
When it was time for recess, Rachel was worn out. She headed to the shady
corner of the school field where her group of friends met up for recess. Sitting on
the lush grass was James, with his back resting on a large tree trunk. Beside him

23

was Victor, he was standing, leaning against the tree. Claire was sitting on the
rickety, old bench which she sat on everyday. Rachel sat beside her.
Claire began immediately.
Can you believe the cheek that that Willow girl has! What a shameless piece of
filth! How dare she show her face here after going to rehab for over a year! This is
a prestigious school, not one where previously messed up bitches can return after
a year.
Her face was red with anger. Rachel just shook her head.
You dont agree? Claire asked viciously.
Rachel looked at her. No, I dont - not at all.
Claire gave a mocking laugh. Of course you wouldnt. You are kind and
compassionate. You are the epitome of perfection, Rachel!
Rachel was astonished. What had gotten into Claire? Was this a side effect to the
death of her grandmother? Rachel tried to reason with her behaviour. Claire was
probably mourning. She had every right to. Her grandmother was murdered only
two days ago. Still, the more Rachel thought about it, the more her anger boiled
up inside. She had to defend herself. She had to put Claire in her place.
She looked at the others. James was equally shocked as Victor. They were staring
at Claire in utter disbelief. She had never been this way with her best friend. Her
hostility was normal amongst commoners but with Rachel she had always been
the better reflection of herself.
Rachel stood up and glared at her. There is nothing wrong with being kind and
compassionate. What the hell is your problem? What do you have against
Willow? She had a drug problem; she sorted it out, now shes back at school, so
what? You always try to stick your nose into everything. Its none of your
business. Do you have something against people who take drugs? If thats it, then
let me assure you, Claire, that youre a goddamn hypocrite. At least Im not as
bitter and manipulative as you are.
Why the hell are you supporting her? Shes not even your friend, Claire
managed to spit out her words without screaming.
Rachel thought about that for a second. She didnt know why she was supporting
Willow. It was true, she wasnt friends with her. Rachel realised that her
argument with Claire actually wasnt about Willow, it was all about Claire. She
never tried to change her ways. She never cared about anyone other than herself.
She was a bitch. One that Rachel always had to put up with. Now, however, the
ball was rolling and Rachel couldnt stop it.
This is all about you! It has nothing to do with her! Im sick of your arrogant and
evil ways! For once, Claire, be nice. Have a heart. Open up! I cant deal with you
all the time. I saw how you looked at her in chemistry. Did you even care to
realise how your glare caused her to sweat, to shake, to grow uncomfortable? She
was already nervous about how people were going to judge her, but then you had
to go and mess with her head even more. She was already intimidated.
Claire gave a rueful smile. Whatever, Rae. Like, youre right. Of course you are,
but I cant help myself sometimes, okay! Shes like an easy target. I guess I kind
of did go a little too far
You can say that again. And, like, oh my God! One of our friends is a drug
dealer! And youre upset about Willow? Ask yourself how logical that is, Claire.
Im sorry Rae! I dont know what happens to me. Sometimes, its like the
evilness inside just bursts out.

24

Rachel shook her head. No, Claire. You allow yourself to do this. I know you
cant change who you are. Claire Richards wont be the same without her
bitchiness. We want that bitchiness. We just dont want the hatred and the
bullying.
Ill apologise to her.
Thats a good idea.
Im doing it only for you.
But then theres no point
Do you want me to be nice or not?
Rachel smirked. Nice.
Then just accept the fact that Im doing this only for you. I care for our
friendship.
Okay, fine. The next class we see her in, youll say youre sorry.
Yeah. I can do that.
They didnt have any classes with her as the day progressed. After school, as
Rachel waited for her car at the front gate, she spotted Willow for the second time
that day; the first was in chemistry class.
She was standing nonchalantly. Her hands were in her blazer pockets and she
was expressionless; staring at the ground. Rachel looked around. Everyone was
avoiding her. Claire had already been picked up and Rachel realised that her car
would arrive at any second, but what could a moments harm be? She realised
that there would be no harm, indeed, if she went and spoke to the lonely girl; one
that was oblivious to how Rachel defended her during recess.
Rachel walked towards her. Hi.
Willow looked up.
When she noticed who was speaking to her, she put on a smile. Rachel. Hello,
how are you?
Rachel noticed that her golden eyes had a glassy look to them; a small cluster of
freckles covered her cheeks and beaky nose and her blonde hair was messily
pulled back in an Alice band.
Im good. How are you?
Cant complain, that friend of yours really knows how to intimidate people.
Claire? I know shes always like that. But other than her, how was your first day
back?
It wasgood.
Rachel could tell that she was lying. Willow had a terrible day. She had the sort
of look on her face that told you she had a rough day.
Oh, Rachel, I know I wasnt invited to your party. I hope it wasnt rude of me to
pitch up.
No, it never really bothered me Rachel lied.
Good. I returned home just last week. Then, when I heard one of my classmates
was hosing a party, I just got so excited.
Rachel smiled. You were gone for so long, she pointed out.
Willows face darkened. It was the heaviest form of rehab.
What were you addicted to, if you dont mind me asking.
Cocaine and heroin, it wasnt pretty, it changes you, damages your soul - the
therapy.
Rachel shuddered. I cant even begin to imagine.
Just then she heard the hoot of a car. She turned and saw one of her cars; a dark
blue SUV.

25

I have to go now.
Okay. See you tomorrow? asked Willow. Her voice was husky and contained a
hint of desperation, the type of desperation that stemmed from loneliness; from
being an outcast.
Sure, said Rachel, feeling good for making Willow feel slightly better, and
walked away.

26

Chapter Five
When Macy returned home after work that evening, Rachel had returned from
a tanning session an hour ago and was currently in the dining room, finishing up
her Trigonometry homework.
Macy entered the room and greeted her daughter. Hi, how was school?
Rachel laughed dryly. I had an argument with Claire.
Macy smirked. What happened?
Rachel shook her head. Shes justClaire! Everything about her is so dramatic,
and the way she glared at Willow Logan
She returned to school?
Rachel nodded.
Wow, its about time.
Youre friends with her parents, right? Rachel asked her mom.
I wouldnt say friends, but we are well acquainted. Theyre one of my clients; they
came to my party
Yeah, I saw them there. Anyway, so when Willow came to class for the first
time in over a year today, Claire gave her such a filthy look. I felt bad for her. I
mean, can you imagine how horrible it must be to feel so degraded? No one
deserves that, Mom.
Macy nodded her head in agreement. So, thats what you argued about?
Basically- but it was also about how bad shes become. I just dont like her
attitude anymoreI guess I had to speak my mind today.
Good for you, Rae. I think Claire needs to be steered in the right direction every
now and then. You did that today.
Yeah, so how was your day?
Macy looked at Rachel with tired eyes. Hectic, speaking of which, I have to be
gone by next week.
Rachel frowned. Where are you headed to?
New York Fashion Week, it is a must. I have no choice. I would take you with
me?
Rachel shook her head. No, no, this is important for you. I dont want to be a
bother. Well go together without all the chaotic business stuff in the way.
Rachel definitely did not want to be caught in all the hustle and bustle of Fashion
Week. It was all too much!
Okay then, if you insist. Wheres Picasso?
No idea, said Rachel, turning her attention back to the last sum in her book.
Picasso? Macy shouted.
After a minute, Picasso popped his head into the dining room. Madam, he said
in his British accent.
What have you prepared this evening? asked Macy.
Roast Beef with wine sauce, Maam.
Mm, Im starving could you serve it now please. I cant wait till dinnertime.
Of course, Maam, responded Picasso as he rushed into the kitchen.

27

Oh, by the way, said Macy as she seated herself beside Rachel, They have
leads on Lulus murder.
Rachel shut her book closed. What? How? This is good news
A witness has come up; one of the maids. She saw a figure in Lulus bedroom as
she passed the open door. She thought it was Jack or Lily, she didnt think of it as
weird. Of course, the moment she passed the door and walked a meter forward,
she heard the gunshot. Like all of us, she stood there in shock.
Rachel shook her head in dismay. What did the person look like?
The maid told police it was a man, all his clothes were grey in colour, and he
had gloves on. His face was turned away, she only saw his back and his one hand
was by his side, thats how she saw that he had gloves on.
But, MomI was so mean to Claire today. Maybe this is why she was so
messed up. I was totally unreasonable.
No Rachel! I found all this out at around four. Lily phoned me and told me. She
also had just found out. Claire didnt know about this. She probably does now,
but during the time the two of you fought, no one knew about the witness. The
maid got the courage to speak out only in the afternoon.
Oh
Just then, Picasso entered. He was pushing a silver tray with two plates covered
with bronze lids, a glass of mango fruit juice for Rachel and a white wine for
Macy.
There you are, maam, he said as he placed the food and drinks on the dining
table, picking up the lids of the plates. He then left the two of them alone again.
Im starving, Macy said as she began eating the food.
Rachel set aside her book and pen, and ate the scrumptious food, too.
Just before going to bed that night, a text message came to Rachels phone. It was
Victor.
Hi babe, it wrote. What you up to? What was that all about with Claire during
recess today? Hope youre fine. Love you, thinking of you
Rachel smiled. This was typical of Victor. He always thought about her. She felt
comforted knowing, when in doubt, he would always be there for her.
After replying to him, she snuggled up in her cosy bed and drifted to sleep.
The rest of the week was neutral; except for one significant difference. School was
the same, old routine. Rachel barely managed to concentrate, though she always
found a way to get through the classes, either by doodling on the pages of
textbooks, conversing with classmates, or (when absolutely unavoidable) focusing
on the teacher. James was annoyingly charming, as usual. Victor was his calm,
cool and collected self and Laurie was focused on all her lessons. The only person
who changed in the week was Claire.
Rachel didnt know whether this was because of their little argument, or because
of something else that happened at home. Either way, Claire seemed depressed
and distracted.
She never smiled, when before, she would crack up at the simplest of jokes shared
amongst their group. She never talked much. That was surprising of all for Rachel
because Claire was a chatter box. What was the cause of her sudden
despondence? Rachel thought maybe she was a bit too rude when they fought,
but she quickly pushed that aside. That was not the case and Claire would never
be so petty. She really did care about their friendship and the sudden depression
wasnt a direct hit on Rachel. Claire acted like that with everyone.

28

Eventually, Thursday morning before school, in the courtyard, Rachel asked her
what the matter was.
Claire suddenly seemed flustered and her forehead began to sweat. She mumbled
that she was fine and walked away.
Rachel was baffled. She didnt know what to do.
The worst part of all of it was that Claires new personality or hopefully a minor
phase included a sudden confusion in minor tasks. On Friday, Rachel and Claire
were in Spanish class together. They sat at one of the back desks. Rachel realised
that Claire had the same faraway look in her eyes that she had the whole week.
She just kept on staring directly ahead with her shoulders slumped forward and
her arms on her lap. When Mrs Torrez asked Claire a question, she simply looked
at the teacher as if she realised she was in the classroom only then.
By Friday afternoon, Macy was gone.
Rachel felt a bit sad as she waved goodbye in the courtyard of their house, to her
mom, watching her being driven off in a car with an entourage.
The heavy, iron gates closed and Rachel walked back into the house with a heavy
sigh.
She suddenly felt alone. She knew that she wasnt, though. There were the maids
and the butler and Picasso. Rachel chuckled as she walked into the living room.
These people were not family; maybe Picasso was a bit closer to her than all the
other workers, purely because he was their personal chef ever since Rachel was
born. As for the others, however, they were just familiar faces in a large house.
Sitting on the large, velvet couch, Rachel remembered something.
Last week, before her party, Claire had also suddenly seemed down when Rachel
visited her house. Claire had promised to tell Rachel what was wrong when she
was ready
Could that have been the same reason as to why she was upset now?
That seems like the only possible reason. Oh my soul! What is it thats making her so
upset? Rachel thought.
Then an idea crept into her mind. Going with the flow, she called a person who
she very rarely called. Dialling his number, she heard his voice after the third
ring.
Hello? he mumbled.
James! Hi, its Rachel.
Oh he sounded surprised, Whats wrong?
Rachel laughed. Nothing is wrong. Ok, well maybe there is something wrong,
but Im trying to fix it
Is it Claire? he guessed.
Mhm. Yep, I was thinking maybe you guys should all just come up to my place
tonight and we could all just chill
She heard his breath under the phone as he thought. That shouldnt be a
problem; Laurie is asking me if shes also invited
Obviously, I want her to come. It will be a good break for her from all the
studying.
James chuckled. I agree with you all the way on that one. This is all for Claire,
right?
Rachel said, Yeah, the way shes been acting this past weekIts strange. I think
we should just calm her down a bit. You know, let her see the lighter side of
life
29

Umokay, whatever that means

Under normal circumstances, I would never ask this of you. In fact, I wouldnt
ever ask you to do something for mebut Rachel hesitated.
There was a pause from both ends of the line.
Finally, Rachel said, Gee, James! Do I have to spell this out for you? Bring
weed!
James was mulling over the thought. Are you serious? he asked in a
disbelieving voice.
Yes! Direct confrontation hasnt worked. Clearly she has issues. I justI dont
know what to do anymore. This just isnt Claire! Rachels desperation was
coming through in her voice.
There was a slight pause. Rachel wondered whether James would laugh her off
and hang up the phone.
How many joints should I bring? he asked, surprising her.
Rachel hadnt thought about, and suddenly realised that maybe the whole weed
thing wasnt the best idea in the world. Forget about it, James. I cant believe I
actually considered drugs as a solution.
Rae! Lets just do it.
Rachel groaned. No!
There was silence.
Rachel went against her morals and blurted out, I dont know. Youre the expert
at this stuff. Just bring as much as you want, and I swear if you tell anyone else
from school or anywhere, for that matter, I will hunt you down and make you
pay!
James hummed into the phone. I love it when you talk dirty to me, baby.
Im not kidding!
I know, I know. You can trust me. By the way, shes not stupid. She wont just
smoke it
Thats where you and Victor come in
Ah come on, you gotta smoke the shit too.
Goodbye, James! See you tonight at six, Rachel said as she hung up the phone.
She hoped that she made the right choice.
Rachel knew that drugs were never the right choice but right now, she was very
worried about her friend. She hoped that Claire would be a bit happier even if it
was for one night.
Rachel phoned Victor and told him to come to her house that night. He agreed;
glad to be able to spend time with Rachel. When Rachel told him what her
motives were, however, his voice sounded stiff and wary, though eventually he
still agreed to attend.
Then, it was the big onephoning Claire.
Rachel? What is it? Claire said when she answered her phone.
Oh, um, hi Claire, whats up?
Nothing
Then there was an awkward silence.
So, listen, Im having like this get-together thing at my place. Do you think you
can make it?
There was that awkward silence again. Rachel could hear Claire breathing in and
out
No, I cant make it.
Rachel thought as much, though she wasnt giving up.

30

Up to you, I just thought it would be nice is all.

Who have you invited, Rae?
Rachel smiled at the phone; the Claire she knew was shining through just a little
bit. Vic, James, Laurie, its not a big group; its only close friends.
I dont count Victor as a friend.
Thats okay. So, are you coming or what? You dont need to. I was just asking.
You could come for me
Ill be there at around six, then. Okay?
Yep, six is perfect.
Bye.
Bye, see you.
And that was that! Rachel was feeling so smug. The only way to lure Claire in
was to make it seem like it wasnt a big deal if she didnt pitch up, knowing all too
well that Claire loved to force herself to be the centre of attention.
Even when shes depressed, she loves being the main attraction, Rachel thought as she
wore decent clothes for the evening. When she had worn her outfit, she looked at
herself squarely in the mirror.
She wore a black and pink tank top; over it she chose her favourite navy, knitted
button up jersey. She wore plain, black jeans underneath.
She put her hair in a low ponytail and she had pink lip-gloss on.
She looked modest for a downscale get-together with friends.
When her friends arrived, they all situated themselves in the family room, where
Picasso served up drinks and snacks. When he left, James brought out the weed.
Who wants some? he asked as if he was promoting something as a
telemarketer.
Laurie rolled her eyes and punched her brothers shoulder, You jerk! When are
you going to grow up?
Hey, dont go hating the weed! he said.
Ah! Just shut it!
Victor and Rachel laughed. Watching the siblings bicker was always a funny
thing to see.
Rachel glanced at Claire. She was still sulking with her glassy gaze.
Have some, Claire, Rachel suggested.
Claire gave her a calculating look. Without saying a word, she extended her hand
out to James who passed her a rolled up cigarette of weed and a lighter.
Laurie eventually ended up sharing a joint with Victor. Rachel didnt smoke the
weed. She had had bad experiences with drugs before and ever since then, she
stayed clear of them.
Throughout the night, James mocked her about this.
Aw, come on, Rae! Weed is natural! You telling me youre not an herbal lady?
Come on, be environmentally healthy! Go green! Its people like you who cause
global warming!
Rachel laughed comments like this away, and everyone seemed to be having a
good time. Laurie was eating the snacks on the coffee table, Victor was laughing
at everything and Claire seemed to have loosened up greatly. She began
commenting on everything and finally her chatter box status soon proved itself
worthy, as she talked on and on.

31

The room was now filled with smoke and Rachel could barely see the others,
except for Victor, who she was cuddled up with on the couch.
Rachel glanced at her watch; it was half past ten in the evening. She sighed with
contently.
Mission accomplished, she thought.
Claire was now cheery! For once, this whole week, she was talking and mocking
people and laughing. Claire was Claire again!
Rachel stood up, walked over to her and gave a warm hug out of sheer jubilance.
What was that for? Claire asked, stroking Rachels arm in a friendly manner.
Im happy that youre happy.
Claire gave a dry laugh and retracted her hand from Rachels arm. She tensed and
seemed to have made a decision on something. Youre happy with that manwhore of yours?
Rachel looked at her in confusion. Victor stood up, his back stiffened, he grew
tense. Just like that, the atmosphere in the room was so stressed, it was almost
palpable.
YOU JUST SHUT THAT MOUTH OF YOURS! Victor shouted at Claire.
That was the first time Rachel heard Victor shout. It was a deep, thick voice that
sent shivers down her spine. Why was he so defensive?
Victor, you told me you would leave her. I remember how you enjoyed each and
every single second spent with me. You expect me to just go on like this forever
with you? Claire said accusingly.
Rachels jaw dropped; she couldnt believe what was going on. She didnt want to
believe what was going on. She wanted to stay like this, frozen, standing with her
mouth open forever. Maybe if she stayed here long enough, void would wash
over her and she could pretend none of this was happening.
The rubbish you talk, Claire! Honestly! Rachel doesnt believe what you say.
Seriously slut, do you gain pleasure from trying to cause shit with everyone?
No, but I do enjoy pleasure in other ways, youd know all about that wouldnt
you?
Rachel didnt want to hear anymore. She couldnt. The longer she stood here like
a statue, the longer she was exposed to their voices. That angered her. It made her
want to cry. No! No! She would not cry! Not here, not now. She pushed her tears
away and they curled up in her stomach, where they waited there, clenched in a
ball.
James and Laurie were also stunned. Had they seen this coming? Surely Victor
spoke to James about most things in his life?
Victors hand was clenched in a fist. He was ready to knock Claire out.
Claire was so high, that she was laughing hysterically as she spoke. You had no
idea, did you Rae? Ha! Your boyfriend has been busy with me while you kept on
waiting for the perfect time to lose that virginity of yours; you were a dumb sucker not
to see straight through the hatred that we put on show.
Rachels face had turned red with anger and humiliation. She really was an idiot
not to see through their grudge. There had to be something more to it, why didnt
she delve further? Why didnt she try to investigate? Was it because the love she
had for Victor was so blinding?
Rachel shook her head wildly; she glared at the floor and allowed the anger
bubbling in her body to seep through slowly.
Is it true? she whispered dangerously.

32

No, no, no; of course not; shes just high, shes making up this crap, Victor said
sharply.
Now, Rachel looked up and focused on Victor. He was desperate. He was
dishonest and Rachel would not believe him anymore. With hatred directed
towards him, she realised that he wasnt all that. For the past year, she was head
over heels, but in reality, he was a loser. His face was now so distressed that he
looked pathetic. He was a bad liar, but Rachel had to hear the truth.
No longer was her anger seeping through her body, it was erupting like an active
volcano.
IS IT TRUE?! she roared loudly.
To her surprise, tears streamed down Victors face. A pang of sympathy rushed
through Rachels body but she quickly pushed it aside. Then she got even more
upset for feeling sorry for him.
ANSWER ME! she roared again, advancing forward.
Eventually, Victor nodded in a slow, miserable motion.
Rachel turned to Claire and stomped right next to her. They were face to face and
Rachel could smell the smoke on her clothes and her breath. She could see each
and every imperfection on Claires face. The thing that made Rachel absolutely
furious was Claires mouth which was curving up into a smile. Rachel couldnt
take it anymore. Her world was falling apart
Slap!
Claires cheek snapped to the side on impact. She looked back at Rachel, glaring.
Rachel hadnt planning on slapping Claire, it just happened. The moment she
retracted her hand from Claires cheek, she knew that what she had done wasnt
even half of what Claire deserved. Claire deserved a life of misery. Rachel was
just too good of a person to do that. So instead she slapped her. Was it sufficient
enough? Probably not, but did it satisfy Rachel for the time being?
Absolutely, Rachel thought.
Get out, she whispered. She was tired now; she didnt want to deal with the
anger at the moment.
Knowing better, the two cheaters shamefully walked out of the room and out of
the house. Rachel then looked at James and Laurie.
Sweetie, Im so sorry. Look, I can stay here tonight if, began Laurie.
No thanks, its not necessary, Im fine, Rachel interjected harshly.
Ok, are you sure?
Yes, Rachel mumbled.
A few minutes later, they also left.
When Rachel crawled into bed that night, she covered her face with the blanket
and held her stomach in pain. The numbness was gone, the anger had somehow
shifted somewhere in her body, completely dormant for the time being, and the
tears that she forced into a clenched ball earlier, were now starting to open up.
The more she breathed, the more the tears climbed out of her eyes. Eventually,
the true floodgates opened; the kind that just wouldnt stop. The kind where you
wish you could just die; the kind that forces you to reflect on all the stupidity and
pessimism in your life.
Rachel pitied herself as she cried. She pitied herself for being such an idiot. A
stupid girl; one that was so blinded by all the good in her life, that she couldnt
see the one terrible thing that was so easy to spot
All of this lasted the whole night.

33

Chapter Six
Somehow, Rachel managed to get up the next morning. It was a tough task to
do, considering she barely slept, but she forced herself to push the blanket off her
body and stand up. She felt dizzy at first, but eventually regained her balance and
slowly walked towards the mirror.
She looked dreadful. There were dry tearstains on her cheeks and her lips were
chapped. She also had blue rings around her eyes and her hair was a rumpled
mess.
Give me a break, she mumbled to her reflection.
Inevitably, her mind wandered to the night before, and the rush of emotion was
so great that she had to sit down at the edge of her bed.
She shook her head in shame and disgust. This whole situation was just so wrong.
She wanted to forget about it; to pretend like it was all a bad dreambut, the
damage was done, the truth was out and now, somehow, Rachel had to find a
way to deal with it.
Whichever way she chose do deal with it, she knew it would not be with tears.
She had spent the entire night crying like a pathetic child, she would not waste
another tear on Victor or Claire.
Victor and Claire...
The two people she did not want to think about at all right now. It just caused her
anguish to have to think of them. She couldnt. Not now
So instead, Rachel decided to spend the morning out in the back garden. This was
a place where anyone could just relax. The grass was a vibrant green and the
flowers were so exotic! Red and white roses filled the entire perimeter of the
garden; in the middle was a large water fountain and filling random spots were
dense bushes of blue violets, daffodils and dandelions.
Rachel made her way to the far corner of the garden, where there was an oldfashioned cherry wood bench which had been in the family for over fifty years.
She sat down and took a deep breath. The pungent smell of dirt, grass and flowers
invigorated her senses. She closed her eyes and felt a light wind brush her arms.
Why was the nature surrounding her so serene when, deep inside, Rachel felt so
wounded, so lost? Now, as she sat here in the tranquil garden, it was as if the
world came crashing down. She couldnt downplay it. Her best friend and her
boyfriend; this was the depressing fact. There were so many questions, so many
open ends that she felt needed to be answered. Yet, at the same time, she wanted
to ignore it all and ignore them. What was she to do? She couldnt think straight.
She thought of everyone as her enemy. She felt that Claire was right alongbeing
nice just came and bit her on the ass.
Rachel didnt know why fate was so unfair sometimesshe was so nice to
everyone, she never judged anyone, she always saw the good in peopleand
now, it was as if the world was mocking her, making her feel humiliated for being
so nave, so stupid.

34

Even now, as she thought of this, she wondered whether she deserved what had
happened. Maybe she shouldnt have waited so long to sleep with Victor, maybe
then he wouldnt have looked for solace with Claire. Or maybe, he knew how
much Rachel cared for him and that she would never have suspected anything.
Still, Rachel knew very well that Victor wasnt a virgin, he could have slept with
anyone he wanted and yet he chose Rachels best friend.
Ex-best friend, Rachel thought solemnly.
And maybe that was why it hurt ten times more. Maybe that was why Rachel
was so confused, so betrayed. All these years, wasted; and for what? To be
mercilessly backstabbed?
Of all people, Claire betrayed Rachel. Rachel was baffled by this. Why on Earth
would she jeopardise a strong friendship like this? It just made Rachel feel sick to
her stomach.
Ultimately, Rachel realised that she would have to cross paths with them. She
immediately knew what to do. Each time she saw them at school, or anywhere
else, for that matter, she would just ignore them. Whether they would be penitent
or impenitent was beside the point. Rachel would just walk by as if they were
nothing more than mere dust particles. She knew Claire wouldnt be able to
handle that. Picturing Claire with a toad-like look on her face as she watched
Rachel walk by without even glancing in her direction was classic! Rachel smiled
as she thought of this
And as for Victor, Rachel still felt a twinge of sentiment as she remembered his
tears from last night, but she realised that they both deserved nothing from her.
Then something strange happened. A small, black kitten crept out of the bushes
in front of her and looked at her. It had sparkling blue eyes which seemed to
infiltrate into Rachels mind. She suddenly felt exposed and slightly
uncomfortable.
Shoo! Go away! she hissed at the kitten and kicked the air. But the cat ignored
Rachels protests and persisted with its gaze. It was like a furry statue, unmoving
and eerie. Another moment passed and she grew restless.
Just go already! Rachel thought impatiently.
Then she blinked. And the kitten had disappeared.
Rachel looked around in astonishment. What? No, it probably just jumped back into
the bush.
Rachel leapt to the bush and pushed aside the roses. But the black kitten was not
there. Rachel just shrugged her shoulders. What did she care about a stray
animal? She had other things to deal with.
When Rachel went back to the house, she found the dining table filled with
delicious toasts, eggs, fruit juice and waffles. Picasso was standing beside the table
with a frown on his face.
Good morning, Miss Rachel, he said.
How are you doing this morning? Rachel asked.
I am well Picassos voice shifted into a silent tone when he added, But the
true question is how you are doing.
Rachel sat down on the dining chair and began eating.
You heard what happened last night? she asked after she finished chewing a
mouthful of crunchy toast.
Picasso nodded. What they did wasit was horrible. He seemed genuinely
concerned. Rachel was touched.
Oh, never mind them. Ill deal with it when I have to.

35

To be honest, several times, I thought of calling Mrs Worthington when I heard

your cries throughout the night.
You will not tell my mother what happened last night! It has nothing to do with
you anyway! Rachel raised her voice. She couldnt afford to have her mom
know all about this. It was humiliating enough
Picasso took a step back. Im sorry; I promise I wont tell her.
Oh, no, no Im sorry. You didnt deserve that. You were just trying to help and I
understand that and I appreciate it. Thank you Picasso, please do not tell her a
word about last night. I dont need her to know.
He relaxed a bit. Yes, I wont tell her.
At around noon, the intercom ran. Rachel rushed to it and answered. The
security guard at the front gate said that Mrs Cromweller was by the gate. Rachel
suddenly became nervous.
What would Victors mom want from me? Did he tell her what happened? Did he do
something stupid? Oh, shit! Rachel thought desperately.
She told the guard to let her in and waited with anxiety. Victors family consisted
of himself and his parents. Janine Cromweller and her husband, Charles had
previously visited Rachels mother during high class functions and
neighbourhood get-togethers. They were favourable acquaintances, but never
really close friends like Claires parents.
So, what was Mrs Cromweller doing here now?
Rachel heard tyres on gravel and then the sudden stop of an engine.
She opened the front door and soon, allowed Mrs Cromweller to enter the house.
She was a short woman with a stocky build, yet she still seemed feminine. She
had the same olive skin as Victor and they shared the same golden colour eyes.
Her hair however, was darker than his. It was a pitch black like Rachels. Today,
she was wearing a loose fitted skirt and a purple shirt, with a Gucci handbag
draped on her shoulder. Her lips were in a tight, thin line and her eyebrows were
raised high. She was not happy.
Rachel, I wont be staying long, she said rudely, entering the house.
Oh, well this is still a lovely surprise. Its been a while, Mrs Cromweller.
Unfortunately, my mother is in New York
Im here to see you.
Oh?
For heavens sake, dont act dumb! What happened last night?
Rachel felt her cheeks grow red. Her heart was frantically beating in her chest.
Um, why do you ask? What did Victor tell you, exactly? Rachels voice faltered
near the end.
He hasnt told me a thing and its driving me insane! When he came home last
night, he locked himself in his bedroom and hasnt come out since. I hear him
crying in there the whole time. And its just not like him to cry. He never cries!
Its as if someone died. Oh dear Lord, what happened last night? You will tell me.
So help me God, you will tell me, Rachel. Because I am a mother and as a
mother I need to know what has happened to my son. So, you will tell me, she
said, slightly out of breath.
Rachel tried to calm herself down. She looked back at Mrs Cromwellers huge,
desperate eyes. They were searching for an answer and Rachel didnt know what
to say.

36

Eventually, she gathered her strength and tried to fight back the raw pain edging
in her voice.
We had a fight
Mrs Cromweller raised an eyebrow. Explain, she demanded.
Look, with all due respect, what happened was partly, well mostly Victors fault.
He deserves to feel what he feels.
What? How dare you say that? You have no idea what hes been going through.
Stop talking in riddles and tell me the facts, Rachel! What did you do to him? Did
you break up with him? Huh? Did you break his heart? I always knew he was too
good for you.
Rachel was now infuriated. No, you have no idea! Your precious son is crying,
not because of a broken heart, not from sadness and not from my breaking up
with. Hes crying from guilt.
Why is he crying from guilt? Mrs Cromweller was stunned. She clearly wasnt
expecting this.
He cheated on me, Rachel said flatly.
It took a few seconds for Mrs Cromweller to register this.
Im sorry, she said softlyclearly in shock.
What I feel is ten times worse than what he feels. I feel betrayed, I feel used and
I feel worthless. And right now, I really dont want to explain it all. Ask him.
Maybe hell tell you the details, although I highly doubt that.
Rachel, I, I justwow, Mrs Cromweller stuttered. She was speechless.
I know. Im trying to deal with it
You two have been together for a year. Thats a long time. It all makes sense
now, why he cries and cries. And it must feel worse knowing that he caused it
all.
Rachel just stared at her blankly. A new sensation was travelling in her body. It
was numbness; a numbness that clasped her guts and wouldnt let go. Rachel was
glad to be feeling numb at the moment; she didnt want to break down in front of
anyone, so she just waited patiently as Mrs Worthington tried to deal with her
own emotions, which were made up mainly of shame and disappointment for her
sons actions.
Right, well I better go, she said slowly.
Okay, see you Mrs Cromweller, Rachel replied eagerly and closed the door
behind her as she watched her through the window walking to her Mercedes and
driving away.
School on Monday was very different than usual. When Rachel arrived at the
busy courtyard of Margo Lee, she had to find peace, solace. So immediately, she
rushed to the one place that wouldnt be so jam-packed with people; the library.
When she entered, a buzz of silence filled her ears. She smiled contently.
Rachel! a voice exclaimed behind her.
She turned around. It was Willow. She looked dishevelled. Her blonde hair was
in a messy ponytail and her mysterious, brown eyes looked exhausted. Though,
now she had a large smile as she greeted Rachel.
Hi, Willow! squealed Rachel and, for some reason, she gave Willow a warm
hug.
Shush! whispered Mrs Eddings said from behind her desk, her wrinkly index
finger pressed against her lips.
Sorry, Mrs Eddings, Rachel whispered back as Willow giggled beside her.

37

So, how was your weekend? Willow asked Rachel quietly.

It was fine, thanks, Rachel lied, How was yours?
Willow nodded, Couldve been better.
Mm, I agree, you look really beat, by the way!
Ha! Im not surprised. I barely slept this weekend.
Ouch. What happened?
Willow just shook her head.
Right, well, look Im going to hang out with you for a while. Okay?
Willow smiled. That sounds great. What happened with your group of friends,
though?
They screwed me over and I was too stupid to see it, Rachel thought to herself.
Just need a break from them, I guess, Rachel said.
Just then the first bell of the day rang loudly. They shuffled out of the library and
said goodbye as they went to their separate classes.
When Rachel walked into her first lesson of the day, she spotted Claire seated at
the back row. She looked downright miserable. When she met Rachels eyes, she
immediately stood up, wanting to talk. But Rachel stuck to what she had
originally planned and ignored her. She glanced away and walked to her seat,
which was a few desks in front of Claires, and sat down. She then chanced a look
behind her and the sight was priceless! Claire was sitting again, but this time her
face was pale white and her eyes had a glassy stare, her short bob messily tucked
behind her ears. She was looking at her desk, totally unaware of the chatter
around her from other students. Rachel smirked and turned to face the front.
Usually, she would have been racked with guilt and empathy by now, but for
some reason, she was actually happy that Claire was feeling so bad. She deserved
it. And so did Victor. Who, Rachel had not seen yet, though she realised she was
bound to eventually during the course of the day.
Victor was in the cafeteria during recess when he spotted Rachel walk in. He
sighed deeply and his heart broke into a million pieces all over again. She was so
beautiful today- of course she was beautiful every day, but now she seemed
slightly flustered and her pitch black hair was loosely flowing from an Alice band,
which only pushed up the top pieces of her hair. Wow, her sparkling green eyes
gleamed, but then, when she spotted him staring at her, the shimmering left her
eyes, and in its place, a fuming blaze grew.
Victor looked down at his plate of food and closed his eyes. He couldnt bear
seeing her so angry, and all because of him. He heard the seat beside him move
and looked up.
He groaned. What do you want, James?
James was grinning like an idiot. Dude look, you gotta get over her eventually.
Whats your point?
We should get out, have fun and play the field
Victor rolled his eyes. Thats your job, James.
Yeah, I forgot, you played your own set of fieldsall at once.
Victor said sharply, Dont you dare go there.
No, seriously dude, what were you thinking, that youd be able to get away if you
started screwing her best friend?
Im already racked with guilt; I dont need your pathetic speeches, too
Whatever, looks like shes found a new friend already.

38

Victor followed Jamess gaze to the middle of the cafeteria where Rachels sat
withwas that Willow Logan?
Rage fumed inside Victor. He tried to keep his posture somewhat normal, but
inside he was screaming, protesting.
Rachel could not be close to Willow. She just couldnt.
He had to do something, but what? Rachel could not stand the sight of him and
he didnt blame her. Though, how was he going to get her to see who she was
befriending?
I need to give it time, Victor thought.
He remembered how his mom viciously accused him of hurting Rachels feelings
when she visited her house. He remembered how ashamed and shocked she was;
her son, cheating on his girlfriend. Not only was this embarrassing for Victor, but
it also emphasised how wrong what he did was. It was wrong; all of it. He still felt
a sharp jolt of guilt every time he thought of it- which was most of the time.
He realised since the wounds were still so raw, even to him, he would have to
somehow wait, patiently, agonizingly, until a time came when he had no choice
but to track Rachel down and force her to listen to him.
Until that time, he realised depressingly, she would be in danger. She would have
to watch her back because dealing with Willow and her family ultimately meant
one thing.
Rachel could die.

39

Chapter Seven
The week that followed was hectic. Rachel was piled with homework and it was
testing week in school. She was glad for this since it was a welcome distraction
from Claire and Victor. She caught glimpses of them now and then at school, but
she still ignored them completely.
She spent more time with Willow at school and she was amazed at how sincere
Willow was. Under all that dodgy hostility, Willow was genuinely friendly and
sincere.
Rachels mother returned home in the beginning of the week, she was worn out
and seemed fragile. She told Rachel New York Fashion Week had taken a lot out
of her. Rachel was concerned, Macy insisted she was fine, but still went to the
doctor for a check up. As it turned out, she was suffering a mild case of flu and
exhaustion. Rachel was relieved. She couldnt imagine how she would be able to
handle her mother being ill.
At the start of the weekend, Rachel invited Willow to her house for the day.
Rachel had gotten up early and was waiting for Willow by the front door when
the intercom rang.
Hello? she answered it.
Maam, a Willow Logan is by the gate.
Yes, please let her in.
She opened the double doors of the house and smiled as she saw a black Porsche
sports car come to a halt at the front.
Willow stepped out of the passenger seat. She was wearing low rise jeans and a
dark red tank top and her blonde hair was in a ponytail. She had no make up on
and her lips were stretched out into a broad smile when she saw Rachel.
Rae! she exclaimed and ran to give her a hug.
Hi! Rachel answered.
She then noticed the driver come out of the car and walk towards them.
This is my sister, August, Willow said.
Oh, said Rachel, Hi, its so nice to meet you. She shook her hand.
Likewise, said August. She had a deep voice.
Rachel observed her. August had much lighter hair than Willow and her face was
prettier. Her eyes were a honey coloured shade and her lips were slighter more
puckered. She had no freckles, unlike Willow- whose face was splashed with
them. August seemed a little bit older than Rachel, probably around twenty, and
she was pregnant; very pregnant. Her stomach was as large as an enormous
watermelon. She was smiling as she asked Willow when she should fetch her.
Ill call you to let you know, Willow answered.
August smiled one last time before galloping to the car and driving away.
That was your sister? Rachel asked.
Yeah, my only sister; the one people have been gossiping about for her
pregnancy, Willow groaned as the pair walked back to the house and settled in
Rachels room. Willow was perched on the office chair in the corner, and Rachel
chose to sit on her bed.
40

Dont you have a driver? Rachel asked curiously. Most of the rich socialite
families had many drivers.
Willow shook her head.
Oh? Well, why not?
We never really saw the need. I mean, to have your life resting in the hands of a
driver is kind of unsettling. Rather have your family members; people who you
trust one hundred percent, drive you around. Its so much more comforting and
assuring.
I suppose so. But were so used to it by now, my mom and me. Its a lot more
convenient. So, Im guessing that you dont have servants in the house, either?
Nope, my mom and I do all the cleaning.
Wow, they sure do give you responsibilities.
Yeah, too much, thats why I retaliated by taking drugs. And we all know how
that turned out.
Willow, at least youre better now. Youre healthy again.
Id like to believe that. Sometimes, though, its like I just go into this very dark
place in my mind. I think thats when people kind of become weary of me, I
suppose, said Willow, looking down at her lap.
To be perfectly honest, there are times when you do seem intimidating. At my
party, when I saw you, you seemed so uncomfortable- as if you didnt want to
even be there. It was like you exuded this resentment.
I didnt want to be there. My parents forced me to go out and mingle with people
my age. I had just come out rehab and I was just so out of it. I mean, a year of
isolation from somewhat normal people is daunting.
Well, now that I know better, I can say that Im glad to have you as my friend,
said Rachel, smiling.
Willow looked up at her. She gave her a toothy smile, Likewise.
That was when they heard the scream.
It was a loud, shrieking shrill that echoed throughout the house.
Rachel jumped up. Who was that?
It sounded like it came from downstairs, Willow said firmly.
Rachel was too nervous to move. Willow took her hand and led her out of the
room and down the stairs.
As they stood quietly at the bottom of the stairs, one of the servants, Vita
stumbled out of the kitchen. She was chalk-white and her hazel eyes were wide
with shock.
Madam, Picasso- he, I dont know. I just went in and I- he she mumbled
hopelessly over and over again, until, eventually she burst into tears.
Rachels insides were going through a wave of emotions. Beads of sweat formed
on her forehead and she tried to act calm, but her hands began shaking.
Hey, listen Ill try to comfort this lady, Willow said. She sounded
surprisingly composed.
Rachel nodded and she slowly made her way towards the kitchen. Each footstep
seemed to take forever. Eventually, she edged towards the door, which was ajar,
and pushed it open the whole way.
She regretted that immediately.
Picasso was on the floor. He was sprawled on the cold tile with blood
everywhere. A knife handle stuck out of the side of his head, and the tip of the
knife was slightly showing on the other side of his head. The blood was crawling
on the tile- spreading around the dead body. There were pieces of what looked

41

like brain matter, oozing out the side of where the knife entered his skull. The
smell was like rust and metal; it was the smell of blood.
Rachel stood there, waiting for him to get up and say it was a practical joke. But
he never stood up. He never moved.
Willow walked in and Rachel faced her. Willow had, what looked like unrest in
her eyes. They were feverishly looking at the gory body on the floor.
Willow? Rachel said warily.
Willow seemed to snap out of the fever and looked at Rachel with hesitation.
Should I call the police? she offered.
Yes. I- I dont know what happened. Who could have done this? Rachel asked
desperately.
Everyone is their own enemy, Willow whispered.
You think he did this to himself? Rachel gasped.
It is a possibility.
No, you dont know Picasso-he would have never done something like this. He
was so. happy.
Willow gazed at Rachel, shifted her glance to the body one last time, and stalked
out of the kitchen.
Rachel closed her eyes. She tried to imagine a different scenario. She imagined
that she was outside, in the garden; that peaceful, tranquil garden which seemed
to calm her nerves even by just thinking about it.
She wished she could go there now. But she couldnt. She had to wait here, in the
house and answer any questions the policemen might have. So, she stumbled
back into the hall and automatically entered the lounge, where she sat on the sofa
and cried.
Willow found her a few minutes later and sat beside her.
I phoned them; theyre on their way. You should call your mother.
How can you be so calm? Rachel demanded through her sobs.
Dont be so quick to judge.
But youre just sitting there as if none of this has affected you!
I didnt know the man personally, was he your chef?
Rachel nodded. What if the same person who killed Claires grandma, killed
him too? What if the killer is still in the house? Oh, crap! We need to get out of
here! Rachel shot up, suddenly nervous.
Hey, hey, hey Willow said in a soothing voice, Sit down. Dont worry; Im
certain that were not in danger.
Rachel was too strained and anxious to argue with her, so she sat back down with
uneasiness.
Call your mom. Willow handed her the wireless telephone.
Rachel punched in the numbers and held the phone to her ear. She then told her
mom the devastating news.
Macy arrived home very quickly. In a panic stricken way, she grabbed her
daughter and gave her a tight hug.
You need to go upstairs and get some rest, she said in a controlled voice. She
seemed to take control of the situation, too.
Rachel nodded and went back to her room.
As she closed the door behind her, she heard the intercom ring; it was probably
the police
She slumped into the covers of her bed and shut her eyes. Picassos bloody head
was the only thing she saw under the darkness of her eyelids.

42

What was happening? She was so confused. Why was everything turning out to
be so horrible?
Firstly, an old lady gets shot in her own room. Secondly, her boyfriend cheats on
her with her lifelong friend. And now, her chef mysteriously gets stabbed in his
skull, his skull!
It was all so disgusting, so wrong and Rachel didnt know how she would be able
to cope anymore. So, she prayed. She prayed for some sort of clarity in her life;
for normality. Then, she drifted into a stifling slumber.
Rachels eyes fluttered open. The dream rushed back to her now, the mysterious,
old lady; the rectangular building which reminded her of an eerie, large coffin; the
darkness of the roomall of it.
She stood up and walked towards the window. Pushing back the curtains, she
saw that the sky was dark and cloudy. The city below glowed with lights. The
cars on the road were hooting- traffic was heavy.
Rachel moved the corner chair to face the window, and seated herself there. She
then thought about the dream.
It was familiar, she tried to think of when else she had dreamt it. The memory
came almost suddenly.
That day she had gone to Claires house. Claire had shown her the dress she was
to wear on her birthday. Yes, that night had been terrible. She remembered how
the dream would end, and then start all over again. It was weird. She
remembered how she woke up and was shocked at how she looked in the mirror;
pale, sweating, with dark circles under her eyes.
Luckily, the dream never restarted this time. But it still had an impact on her
now. It made her feel uncomfortable. Usually she never remembered what she
dreamt about, but this dream was clear as a sunny day. And she had dreamt it
before.
She shook her head and realised that little drops of rain were pattering on her
window. She looked at the sky. The heavily pregnant clouds were now releasing
their contents with relief and speed. Before Rachel knew it, thunder roared
overhead and the rain increased. The silent patter was now a whooshing howl.
For some reason, the steady anger of the sky calmed Rachels inner pain to a
throbbing ache. An all-too familiar numbness spread within her. She embraced it,
she welcomed it.
A knock on the door brought her back to reality.
Come in, she said hoarsely, her voice dry.
The door opened and Claire walked in.
Rachel stood up. Anger and resentment boiled within her.
Get out NOW! she shouted the last part.
Claire looked at her with grief in her eyes. Rachel didnt care. She just didnt care
anymore.
Please, Claire whispered.
Rachel glared at her.
She was fuming, How did you get in? She spat out the words.
Your mom told my mom what happened and then we came here, Claire said
quickly.
Leave.
Please, lets just talk.

43

What? What is there to say? Huh? Youre going to beg for my forgiveness?
Rachel asked rhetorically, the words spewing out. Were going to best buddies
again? Is that what you want? Well sure lets just put the past behind us! Yes,
thats a wonderful plan. We can just carry on as if you didnt sleep with Victor.
We can carry on, with you being the superior snob and I can continue being the
kind, weak, stupid little friend that tags along!
For what its worth, that day at my house, when you came to see the dress I was
wearing for your party, just as you were leaving, you asked what the matter was.
You realised that I had looked upset, well I was upset. I was filled with shame!
All I could think of was how filthy I had become; and to my best friend, the
person that always looked out for me, Clare said quickly, and when Rachel
didnt interrupt, she hastily continued. Well, you asked what was wrong, and I
should have told you then and there- but for some reason, I didnt. Then, after
that, I couldnt cope without feeling so crap. Of course, Victor and I were now
practically enemies- for real, since both of us realised how wrong it all was, and
that was when you invited me to your house. That was when I decided to spill the
beans, Claire said quickly.
You didnt just spill the beans! You poured them! And worst of all was how you
pretended to be high, so if you changed your mind afterwards, you could pretend
that you were joking! I can read you like a book, Claire!
Rachel no; Im just so
Guilty? Rachel finished her sentence.
Well, yes! Obviously! You deserve an apology, an explanation
I dont want a single thing from you. You can take your apology and shove it,
for all I care.
Claires eyes started watering, It was my fault. Dont blame him. I seduced him
from the start.
Oh, JUST SHUT UP ALREADY! I dont care! I dont care! And how dare you
try and defend him? I knew exactly what you were, anyway. I knew how loose
you were, and even though it was still a shock to know that you were involved in
this whole mess, it was a greater shock to know that he agreed, that he agreed to
you. He took you on, he didnt reject you.
He tried, though. It was me, I just, I dont know. I just led him on.
Ok, you know what, I really dont care. Both of you hurt me but Im now over
it, Rachel said, moving towards the door and gesturing for Claire to leave.
Can we at least try to be friends again, in time? Claire asked with hope in her
voice.
Youre dead to me, Rachel replied coldly.
Claire looked down. The tears had stopped. When she looked up again, her eyes
were set in a firm challenging glare, Youre making a huge mistake. I wont be
there for you when you need me. If you turn your back now, its over; for good.
Youre one to talk. I wasnt the one who slept with her best friends boyfriend.
Thats not something petty. Its not like borrowing a sweater from you and then
spilling wine on it. You deceived me, in the worst way possible. And if you
havent noticed, I turned my back on you a long time ago.
Fine, Claire said in a dreary voice and left the room.
Rachel slammed the door shut.
Great! she mumbled to herself.

44

She checked the time on the wall clock. It was half past six in the evening. Where
had time run off to? She still felt groggy from her nap, and wished she could head
downstairs to the kitchen and grab something to drink or eat.
The kitchen!
The terrible image of Picassos gory head returned to Rachel suddenly. The police
must have been done with the investigation, by now. Surely, the body was gone;
taken to a morgue. Still, Rachel felt shivers as she thought of entering that
kitchen. It was all so fresh, so raw in her mind.
And then there was Claire! What the hell! Rachel just couldnt comprehend how
shameless she could be, how astonishingly idiotic she could be, walking into her
room and trying to talk to her.
What did she expect, a friendly reunion?
Rachel sighed neutrally. She was stuck in her room, now. She couldnt go out and
greet Mrs Richards, Claires mom, and try to put on a happy face. She just
couldnt.
So she put her head on the pillow of her bed and cried.
She cried for Picasso.
She cried for his family in London.
She cried for all the negativity in her world, except for one. She didnt cry for the
betrayal of the two closest people in her life. She had meant it when she told
Claire she didnt care anymore. In her mind, although the betrayal was
heartbreaking, it was unimportant. They were unimportant. They meant nothing
to her now. They were detached puzzle pieces, which were once significant to
complete the puzzle of her life; but not anymore.
Rachel realised, through her tears, that she was becoming unrecognisable, even to
herself. The kind, understanding Rachel was in a distant place. Now, she felt a
new side of her; a cold, bitter side. It was an odd side, one that she never really
explored before. Though, she quickly figured that it was a side she was beginning
to navigate through perfectly now.

45

Chapter Eight
The moon shone sadly as it hung above the silent, haunted night in the forest.
It was an unfamiliar forest. Rachel looked around, trying to identify something
that would give her a hint as to where she was, but everything was so unfamiliar.
Even the hoot of an owl sounding from a nearby tree was strange. Almost as if
the owl was afraid.
Rachel realised she was also afraid.
Slowly, steadily, she began walking through the trees. She was barefoot, wearing
nothing but a silky white night gown. Her hair was loose and felt extra smooth as
she ran her fingers through it.
The grass tickled her soles as she continued moving forward.
Something felt wrong. The hairs on her neck stood on end.
Someone was watching her.
She crept silently behind a large tree and breathed deeply, trying to calm herself.
It wasnt working.
Whoever was watching her seemed to make their presence known now, as heavy,
gruff breathing ensued from behind Rachel.
Rachel yelped and jumped out of the way as the figure attempted snatching her
with their sharp, deadly claws.
Claws
This wasnt a person.
This was a monster.
From behind the shadows of the tree, the monster stepped into the brightness of
the moonlight.
Rachel shook her head in despair.
The monster had horns that twisted and turned on its forehead. It had a snout and
several pointy teeth jutted from its large mouth. The peculiar thing about the
monster was that although it had claws and such grotesque facial features, the rest
of its body was that of a human. Its skin was dark with several gashes and
wounds on its arms and legs. Its chest was straight and it had no nipples. As for a
gender, Rachel was unable to identify if it was male or female because it had no
private part to speak of.
Please, she begged. Please dont hurt me.
It roared loudly and charged at her. Rachel stumbled away but the monster was
quicker. It bounded on top of her and she toppled down.
Enough, said a woman.
And just like that, the monster vanished, seemingly, into thin air.
Rachel waited for a second, until she was sure the monster was gone, before she
attempted getting back up.
She squinted around and spotted the figure of a woman standing in the shadows
of the forest.
What was that? Rachel asked, wanting to believe that she was safe but knowing
she shouldnt relax so easily just as yet.
The woman remained hidden when she said, Your worst nightmare.
46

She leaped forward with immense speed.

Rachel gave a blood-curdling scream as the womans facial features transformed
into the monsters as she grasped Rachels neck and began twisting
And then Rachel woke up.
It took Rachel a second to come to grips with reality.
She assured herself everything was okay.
It was just a dreamit was just a dream.
She began worrying.
Maybe it was just her brains way of releasing all the stress and shock of Picassos
death.
But she had had a strange dream the night before her birthday party, too.
Rachel blinked hard and rubbed her eyes. She sighed and got out of bed.
No, she decided, it wasnt a big deal. People have nightmares. She didnt want to
over think it.
Unwillingly, she took an invigorating shower, got dressed and headed downstairs.
She found her mom seated at the dining room table, looking melancholy.
Morning, Macy said, putting on a brave face as she spotted her daughter enter.
Morning, Rachel responded and sat beside her, her stomach beginning to
growl.
A servant entered with a tray of food and placed it on the table. Rachel grabbed a
plate and dished up. She then ate very quickly, the growl in her stomach
disappearing.
He killed himself, Macy said abruptly.
Are you sure? Rachel asked slowly.
Macy nodded. The fingerprints on the knife match Picassos fingerprints. I
found out late last night.
Rachel shuddered, But why?
Maybe he had personal problems
There was an eerie silence, as they both thought about itthe suicidein their
very home.
Mom, Im scared, Rachel confessed.
Macy smiled sadly, the creases of her skin becoming prominent. Me too, she
said.
At two in the afternoon, Willow came to visit Rachel again. This time she seemed
more worried, more fretful.
Trust me, Im fine, Rachel insisted, after hearing Willows concerns for the
second time.
Sweetie, you need to find some sort of clarity. I can only imagine the horror you
must be feeling.
They were in the living room, seated on a large, beige sofa.
Well, what do you suggest?
Ok, Ive been meaning to tell you, but now Im hesitant. I dont know if youll
be up for it.
Willow, tell me and Ill see if its a good idea or not; although Im up for almost
any distraction.
Willow looked at her with her golden eyes, they seemed almost embarrassed.
Theres this woman, shes helped me through a lot of terrible stuff in the past
So, is she a shrink? Rachel guessed.

47

Not really. More like a fortune teller.

Rachel was taken aback. Oh, she said.
I know, I know. Just hear me out. I dont know how she does it, but what she
says makes sense. I think shes legit; the real thing. And it would do you wonders.
Trust me.
Rachel wasnt too keen on the idea. Who is this woman? How do you know
her?
Willow answered quickly, Her name is Brianna. Shes really old. I met her at a
low time in my life. And she cleared everything up for me. I just think, when in
doubt, try to find a way to clear your path. And she does that. Listen, if you dont
feel comfortable, we dont have to go. But, for me, just see how she is, if you
dont like what she says, we can always leave.
Rachel thought, I can trust Willow, and what do I have to lose, really? Ive already lost
enough - might as well try my luck.
Fine, but only because you insist, she said.
Great! Lets go! Willow exclaimed.
What? As in like right now?? Rachel asked, shocked.
Willow nodded, getting up.
Well, what the rush?
The sooner the better, Willow said vaguely.
Rachel just shrugged, Whatever.
She was in no mood to put up a fuss.
In less than fifteen minutes, they were seated at the back of the car. Willow was
speaking to the driver, giving him directions as to where they were going and
Rachel was looking out the window, deep in thought.
Whats on your mind? Willow asked, once she was done giving directions.
She sat back and looked at Rachel with worry.
Theres a lot on my mind, but Willow, thank you. Youve been nothing but kind
to me. You know, not too long ago, I felt betrayed like everyone was my
enemy. But you let me see the good in people again. I trust you, youre a good
friend.
Willow affectionately rubbed Rachels shoulder. I think its vice versa, too. You
spoke to me, defended me at a time when people thought I was a freak. You gave
me a chance, extended your friendship to me. I owe it to be here for you.
Victor cheated on me with Claire! Its so sick, so disgusting. Those are the only
two people who I will not be kind to, they dont deserve my kindness. Right now,
though, I cant really think of it. It doesnt affect me anymore. The deaths
surrounding us are more important, more lethal. Im scared.
Were all scared, Rae. It just takes time.
Yes, I know, but what if all that the killer needs is time to strike again.
You keep on saying its a killer; I dont think so. With Lulu, it was a killer,
obviously, but your chef, he did that to himself.
Suddenly, doubt surged through Rachels body. She looked at Willow and
examined her. Under all that kindness, was there a liar; a monster? There had to
be. Or else how had she known? Rachel became anxious. She had to confront
her, had to ask her how she knew. And if Willow became hesitant or couldnt
give a straight answer, she knew she couldnt be trusted; knew there was
something sinister lurking in those eyes.

48

Rachel cleared her throat and looked at Willow. How did you know he killed
himself? she asked with a clear voice.
Willow looked down, and Rachel could almost feel the trepidation building up in
Willows body.
Rachel just shook her head. How could she have been so stupid? How could she
have so nave to bring this girl into her life? It was hilarious how, a few minutes
ago, she was speaking such good things about her.
Rachel eyed her again, and this time, she could see Willows back tense up.
Willow looked up at her and smirked. You told me.
No, I didnt.
Clearly, theres a lot youre thinking of. Youre distracted. You told me earlier,
Willow said confidently.
Rachel knew she had to be careful. Somehow, she knew that Willow was capable
of something bad. It was a feeling that didnt have any solid proof, but Rachel
knew; she was certain.
Im sure, it must have slipped my mind, she said reluctantly, forcing a smile.
Reassured, Willow turned to the driver and continued giving him directions.
Rachel turned to look out the window again. Cars were darting past the car with
immense speed; flashes of colour sprinting past her eyes.
She looked at the back of Willows head; seeing her blonde locks. Rachel
instinctively knew something was amiss. The uneasiness inside her was not going
away; instead it fed on all her other emotions and overwhelmed her thoughts.
What are you up to, Willow? Whats lurking in that mind of yours? Whatever it is, its
dangerous. I can feel it. I just know! Damn it! What possessed me to come here? Where the
hell is she taking me? How could I have allowed myself to trust her Rachel thought
dreadfully.
She tried to calm herself, somehow. She realised that giving away how she felt
would not be a wise thing to do. She would have to play along; until she returned
home, where she would shut Willow out of her life completely. Being alone was
not so bad, anyway.
That thought stabbed through Rachels heart. She never comprehended how
much she missed her old life; her life with Victor, with Claire, with Laurie and
James. Everything was so blissful back then; with all her friends. It was all so
perfect; until it all came crashing down. She still couldnt believe how quick they
all were to move on. Laurie never called or visited anymore, neither did James.
And Rachel was the one who shut Claire and Victor out completely; but that was
called for. She had to let go of them. But still, she wished that none of it ever
happened; that Victor never cheated on her with Claire. Rachel had loved Victor
with all her heart. Although it was easy to put up a wall amongst other people, to
lie to herself and think that it was all unimportantdeep down, where her injured
heart skipped in rhythmic beats, she knew that the pain of what happened was
still there. And perhaps that was why she was reckless, bringing Willow into her
life. The girl was practically a stranger. Rachels kindness was her own enemy. It
just brought trouble.
Suddenly, the car came to a halt.
Rachel looked at Willow. Are we here? she asked, trying to sound relaxed,
which was a great contrast to how she felt.
Willow nodded, opened the door and stepped out. Rachel followed.
Wait for us until we come back, Willow told the driver.

49

They were on the side of a highway. Rachel looked around and couldnt really
place where they were. Behind them was a green and large forest.
We have to walk a bit to get there, Willow said, looking through the trees of
the forest.
We have to walk through the forest? Rachel asked.
Unfortunately; shes very private.
And so, they walked. Rachel became apprehensive and impatient, as she kicked
her way through the tangled weeds and long grass. Willow seemed very
comfortable gliding through the forest, undisturbed. Rachel even thought she saw
a careless smile emerge on Willows face; as if she was in heaven.
In ten minutes, Willow stopped abruptly; Rachel, who was behind her, stopped in
mid-walk, not sure what to do.
Were here, whispered Willow, and moved slightly to the right, allowing
Rachel to stand beside her. When Rachel walked forward, she saw that they had
reached a small, circular clearing. As she moved her gaze to what was in the
middle of the clearing, however, she froze.
Every muscle in her body tightened up. This was it; the dream shed been having.
No, no, no! This is just too weird! she thought.
In the middle of the clearing was a trailer. This was the trailer that Rachel always
thought of as a rectangular building, one that resembled a coffin, in her dreams.
Looking at it in real life, she realised that it was a white, muddy trailer. Although
she knew what a trailer was, it still looked odd. She hadnt seen many in her
lifetime.
The moment was surreal. This had to be some sort of sign. People didnt just
dream things and watch them happen in real life.
Is everything all right? Willow asked.
Rachel nodded. Yeah, lets go, she said and walked ahead. She was curious
now. She felt an urge to find out what was going on; who this woman was that
plagued her dreams.
Rachel reached the front and knocked hard on the metal door. She didnt know
where this new found courage came from, but she was using it to her advantage.
Willow was right behind her.
The door opened and an old woman faced them. She was severely thin. Her
bones protruded from her loose, wrinkly skin. She wore a long, blue dress. She
had high cheek bones and her white hair was dead straight; reaching down to her
shoulders. Her nose was small and pointy and her light brown eyes studied
Rachel with intensity and curiosity. She then moved on to Willow, who she
recognised immediately as she raised her eyebrows.
Come in, she said in a hoarse voice.
Rachel and Willow quickly entered the small trailer. A thick mouldy smell
engulfed Rachels throat. She coughed, adjusting to the smell, and looked around.
The place was very dark. Navy curtains covered the small windows so the only
source of light came from a small, circular lamp, which stood on a square,
wooden table by the far corner of the trailer. Four small stools surrounded the
table.
The woman looked at them as she closed the door. Take a seat, she said,
gesturing to the stools.
Rachel and Willow went to sit down, and so did the woman.
Weve seen each other before, she said, looking straight at Rachel.

50

Rachel looked straight back at her. Yes, youve been in my dreams, weird as that
sounds.
The woman smiled, her thin lips looking like one curved line. So it was meant to
be, us meeting.
Your names Brianna, right? Rachel asked.
Yes, and youre Rachel.
Willow cleared her throat and said, I brought her, shes been having a hard time.
I told her you could help her clear up some paths in her life.
Rachel glared at Willow, Im right here!
Willow looked at her, wide-eyed.
Rachel then turned her attention back to Brianna. So tell me, how is it that
weve been having the same dreams; about each other?
Oh, my dear, I havent been dreaming the same things as you. I cant say Ive
ever had the pleasure of dreaming. No, I allowed myself to enter your dreams.
Rachel looked at her, dumbfounded, Huh?
Brianna chuckled. Willow, what did you tell her I was?
Willows face became pale and she looked almost scared. Youre a fortune teller.
Brianna narrowed her eyes at Willow. Now, why would you lie?
Willows nostrils flared. I didnt lie, she said through her teeth.
Rachel was confused, but knew that these two people were speaking in code,
speaking of things sinister, deadly. Rachel knew; she just knew.
Yes, yes, said Brianna impatiently, Rachel, you came for clarity, I will give
you clarity. You have seen death. You will see more death and more uncertainty
in times to come. Someone you know well will vanish. You will feel worse than
what you feel now but somehow, your strength will be greater. You will fight.
Realising something, Brianna looked at Willow in disbelief and whispered, She
will fight
Rachel was now really annoyed, Once again, Im right here! And what sort of
help are you? If all you do is make me feel worse? I thought, ok, well I had
dreams of this place so there must be something real to this. Maybe, its a sign.
Maybe you would help. Well, hell! I thought wrong! Willow, can we go?
Willow pursed her lips, Brianna, well leave now.
Brianna stood up and spread her hands out in acknowledgment. Go, if you so
please.
Rachel had a million questions on the drive back home, but she knew she had to
be cautious. Willow was beside her, looking very dazed and deep in thought.
Resisting the urge to ask anything, Rachel stared out the window of the car and
closed her eyes, waiting impatiently to return home.

51

Chapter Nine
Well, I guess I should call my sister to come pick me up, Willow said.
They were back at Rachels place, in the living room.
Yeah, fine, Rachel said, firmly. She was trying so hard to keep calm, but her
insides were raging with hot-white fury and fear. She just wanted Willow out of
her house, but at the same time, she wanted to know what was going on between
her and Brianna.
What did Brianna mean when she repeated that Rachel would fight? Who would
vanish?
Willow took her cell phone out of her jean pocket and dialled her sisters number.
Rachel leaned on the wall and stared ahead uncomfortably.
Shes on her way, Willow told her, after hanging up the phone.
You know something. Rachel said hastily, Willow, you know something and
dont try and dumb me down by lying. You knew Picasso killed himself when no
one told you. You and that Brianna woman spoke of something, almost in code.
What did she mean when she said that I would fight? Huh? Im not stupid! I
know something is going on and truth be told, I dont know you very well. But if
you want to remain as my friend; you have to come clean; what is going on?
Determination filled Rachels entire body. She wasnt frightened anymore; she
was annoyed.
Willow suddenly squared her shoulders defensively. Im trying to help you!
Oh, thats bullshit! Youre just the dodgy girl that everyone is afraid of. And
right now, youre living up to that reputation.
Willow cackled maliciously. Oh, and youre the perfect girl who lost her
virginity to the boy who was cheating on her with her best friend. Youre a
walking clich! And no matter how kind you are to people, ultimately, you shut
them out. And deep down, you want them back, you want all of them back but
you cant have them. Youre alone. The boy, who loved you, loves you no more.
The girl, who was like your sister, is now your biggest enemy. Rachel, people
have grown tired of you. All you do is cry and feel sorry for yourself! And all I
wanted was to be nice; to be here for you. Dont shut me out, too.
Willow spoke with a calculated edge in her voice. She was testing Rachel
jabbing at her weaknesses.
Rachel tried, with each and every instinct in her body, not to leap on top of
Willow and strangle her. She was so angry. She was so angry.
Just who do you think you are, coming into my life and judging everything
about me? Get out! Rachel roared.
Then, Willow did something strange; something that Rachel was definitely not
expecting, she closed her eyes and smiled.
Rachel looked at her with a raised eyebrow.
Willow was smiling as if she enjoyed each and every second of their argument.
Willow opened her eyes and whispered, You cant fight me. I am way more
powerful than you. I can feel your fear, and its that fear that will eventually be
the death of you. So just try, try fighting me.
52

She then turned around and stomped out the living room. Rachel heard the
opening of the front door after which a loud bang of it being slammed shut.
Willows whispered voice of pure malevolence had sent icy shivers down Rachels
spine.
She leaned on the wall for what seemed like hours. The thing that affected her the
most was that Willow was right. Everything she said was spot on, as if she could
read Rachels inner, most intensely raw thoughts.
All she did was cry, which was pathetic, and she shut people out. Oh, God, did
she shut people out. Why didnt she try resolving things with Claire and Victor?
But why am I like this? Why is it that I can be friendly, but when one thing goes wrong,
like the cheating, I close up and become weak? Rachel wondered.
But it wasnt fair, Willow only said those things to protect her own skin, to make
Rachel seem like the one with the faults. And that just wasnt true. The suspicion
Rachel had of Willow was true. And although Rachel had her own issues to deal
with, she still had to find out what Willow was up to, what her ulterior motive
was.
Rachel looked around. Where was her mother? She tried calling out for her and
walked around the house, trying to find her. Vita was in the dining room,
cleaning the table when Rachel came in.
Have you seen my mom, Vita? she asked the servant.
Vita said, Yes, Madam. She told me to tell you that she has gone to the Richards
house.
Oh, Rachel said, discouraged.
A part of her wanted to be with her mother, who, for once wasnt working today.
Still, Rachel didnt want to go to Claires house. She glanced at the big, expensive
wall clock. It was quarter past three. She sighed and decided to call Macy.
Hi, mom? she said as she put the phone onto her ear after she dialled the
number, and waited for her mom to answer.
Rachel! Are you alright? Im here at Claires house. Oh, please come. Itll do
you good.
Im alright, mom. Look, I dont think that would be such a good idea, I just
wanted to know when youd be back?
There was a pause on the other line, and then Macy said, Oh, darling, about
another hour or two. Listen, I insist that you come!
Rachel groaned. Fine, if you insist, she said and hanged up.
Great! Just great! she wined.
Within twenty minutes, she was face to face with Claire.
Hi, she said, unemotionally.
Clearly, Claire wasnt expecting a greeting, but when she got one, she
immediately beamed and said, Oh, Rachel. Hi!
Rachel rolled her eyes. Smirking she sat beside her mom and Mrs Richards in
their insanely extravagant formal living room.
Claire sat on the single sofa on the right.
Rachel observed her once-best friend. Claire hadnt changed much at all. Her
light brown hair was still in the form of a short bob. Although, her eyes had a
more mature set to them; as if she had grown a million years since Rachel found
out about her and Victor. Her plump lips were smiling. Rachel was amused that
Claire was so joyful.

53

Rae, you never told us you and Claire had a fight! No wonder the two of you
never speak! exclaimed Mrs Richards.
Oh, yes. But its been a while now and there are more important things to deal
with; like the deaths
Yes, yes! Speaking of which, I am just absolutely flabbergasted! I mean, in a
secure suburb such as ours, all these bad things happening! Although, I must say,
I would never suspect that chef of yours as a suicidal person, said Mrs Richards,
taking her champagne glass from the coffee table and sipping its contents.
Just then, George came in the room.
Hi, Rachel, he said and went to give her a hug.
Hey, buddy, Rachel said in a friendly voice.
Ive missed you. Why dont you come to our house anymore? he asked.
Ah, wellyou see, that doesnt matter, because Im here now, she said,
smiling.
She felt a wave of compassion. George was always fond of her, with his twelveyear-old charm.
He then left the room, seemingly busy with something else.
The rest of the visit was fairly mundane. At one point, Claire tried to make
conversation with Rachel, but Rachel gave her the cold shoulder; just nodding or
giving her an acknowledging glance; never speaking back or lengthening the
discussion. Claire quickly understood that they were still not on speaking terms;
only civil, hello, goodbye terms.
Still, Rachel felt a lot more at ease, sitting with her mom and the family she had
known for a long time. She felt assured and safe; knowing that Willow was
wasnt here.
The thought of how Rachel spent that afternoon in Briannas trailer, sent chills
down her spine. None of it was a coincidence. And, although she stood up for
herself, she still felt worried. She felt as if she had to tell someone about itbut
who? No one would understand. No one would understand how she had been
dreaming of a trailer for ages, and today she was lead to onewhere an old
woman told her weird things and her so-called friend was somehow behind it
all.
Gosh, even thinking it sounded weird in Rachels head.
Looking at Claire, she wished she could tell her everything; tell her all her worries
and come up with a calculated, devious plan to get back at Willow, but Rachel
knew she couldnt do that. Her relationship with Claire just wasnt like that now;
it wouldnt be like thatever. Even if they revived their friendship in time, it
would still be staineddamaged from the betrayal. That was inevitable. And
Rachel couldnt change it, she didnt want to.
That evening, when Rachel was in her room, she decided to go on her laptop. She
was surprised to see that she had gotten an e-mail from Victor. Her heart began
beating rapidly as excitement rushed through her. She couldnt help it, and got
annoyed with herself for being so foolish.
She clicked on the e-mail and read it.

Hi Rachel,
Please read this and dont delete it because of me.

54

I know how you must be feeling and I apologise, againfor

everything. But what Im about to ask of you is very important. Its
bigger than everything else and I hope you will see that.
Ive noticed that youve been spending time with Willow Logan
lately, but I think you should seriously consider stopping your
friendship with her. I am not in any position to judge you or to ask
anything of you, but like I said, this is bigger than everything else.
That girl is bad news. You know that I dont judge people, like you,
and you know that I wouldnt dare meddle in your business,
considering the circumstances, but you need find a place in your
heart to trust me.
If you want to, we could meet up and talk about the reasons
behind my request. You need to think it through carefully though,
because if I do end up telling you the reasons behind itwell, they
could be life changing.
Sincerely,
Victor.
Rachels heart began beating faster than ever. Victor was her only source of hope.
He knew something about Willow and relief washed over Rachel as she realised
that he was the one she could talk to about it all.
Still, was it fair on her to open herself up again to himafter all he did?
The e-mail said that she had to find a place in her heart to trust him, so whatever
it was that he wanted to tell her, had to be important; very important.
The one thing Rachel found throughout the e-mail was an overpowering sense of
urgency. She knew that no matter what she felt, she had to meet up with him and
talk about Willow. Something was definitely odd about Willow and Victor knew.
Rachel was determined to find out.
On Mondayshe thought, On Monday at school, Ill track him down and then he can
tell me everything.

55

Chapter Ten
It was Sunday morning.
Laurie woke up to birds chirping outside, and sunlight breaking through the milk
coloured curtains. She immediately began going through the Trig homework she
had battled with on Friday.
She yawned as she sat at her study desk and began going through the work.
Within two minutes, she heard the front door open with a creak downstairs and a
voice saying, Thank you, Liam; if you could take the luggage in my car boot up
to the room.
Laurie would have recognised that voice anywhere. It was a rich, deep voice
which held authority. It was her dad.
She bolted out of her bedroom and ran downstairs. Her dad saw her and she
greeted him coldly. Oh, Laurie, give me a hug! he said as he outstretched his
arms.
As much as she had missed him, Laurie was upset. He had been gone for two
months. She knew his business trip to Korea couldnt have taken two months.
And, Laurie logically figured out that he was having an affair. It was the only
explanation.
She looked at his outstretched arms and simply walked past him and glanced out
the open front door. Liam, the chauffer was digging in the boot of the Volvo,
taking out her dads luggage.
She faced him again and asked, How was Korea?
He frowned. It was Korea. Nothing spectacular happened; boring meeting after
meeting.
He stomped to the living room and his jaw dropped. James was sprawled on the
large, olive toned, leather couch, snoring quietly.
Laurie walked to her dad and simply shrugged. He was out partying last night.
Her dads face went red with anger. And what is your mother doing about this?
And you; youre watching him do all this crap! Youre watching him mess up his
life! I go for two months and when I return, hespartying? Ruining his life?
Laurie stared at him in disbelief. How is it my fault, dad? Youre never home,
anyway! Dont try and make this so-called business trip a reasonable excuse for
Jamess behaviour. Hes been like this for a long time, and dont act like you
havent noticed, either! Moms practically never home, too. And I do look after
him! I love him! I support him! And thats a shit load more than what you two
do!
Lauries dad lifted his arm and flattened his hand. He then slapped his daughter
across the face.
Laurie felt the sting on her cheek. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a white
faced Liam pass them and go up the stairs, with two heavy suitcases.
She then straightened up and flared her nostrils as she faced her dad. Hes eyes
were narrowed.
You have no right to say that. We have given you children everything;
everything! he whispered dangerously.
Then, something unexplainable happened.

56

Laurie felt it; she felt it enter her body. She didnt know what it was. It was an
influence, a searching, feeding power which pushed into her mind and forced her
to scream. She heard the spine-tingling sound come from her own mouth, yet she
knew it wasnt her. It was the influence, the energy, forcing her voice to scream.
Her dads expression was that of pure shock and uncertainty.
Then, the influence made her giggle as she ran out the house and jetted past the
front gate.
The tiny part of her mind that was still intact was petrified. What was happening?
Why was she running down the narrow street aimlessly? She didnt know where
this influence was taking her, but it forced her legs to run and run and run.
And then, it disappeared. Laurie was left sweating, out of breath and lost.
She looked around in despair. The street was deserted. She didnt recognise this
street. Her glasses were slipping down her nose. She pushed them back up with a
finger and then slipped a strand of blonde hair behind her ear.
She began to cry. What happened? What took control of her? What forced her to
run here?
HELP! she yelled through her sobs.
Then she saw it. On the cold, dark tar of the road beside the pavement was a
circle. It looked like a thick, grey circle. But as Laurie cautiously edged towards
the shape, she let out a shrill, fearful scream. This time, it was Lauries own
scream.
Fat, grey pigeons lay dead on the tar, their eyes closed, and their bodies flaccid.
There was no blood, nothing to pinpoint how they had died. But they were dead,
and placed in a formation of a circle. It was like a sick joke.
Who would do this? Its repulsive, Laurie thought with fear as she sobbed even
harder.
A cold gust of wind lashed at her from behind. Shivering, she turned around and
her stomach tightened in dread.
A cloaked figure stared at her confidently, its head tilted to the right in a playfully
lethal manner. It was large and very tall. Laurie guessed it was man simply by its
masculine stature.
Who are you? she whimpered. Her glasses slipped off her nosecracking on
the ground.
Slowly, the man lifted the hood, and grotesquely smiled at her. A fleshy scar
extended from the bottom of his eye to his jaw.
Laurie screamed again, but this time the man edged forwardand darkness
surrounded her as she fainted.

So she took you to Brianna? Victor asked Rachel, astounded when he heard
everything that Rachel had to say.
Rachel nodded. They were huddled together in a dark corner of the school
library. It was recess and surprisingly, Willow wasnt at school today.
And you dreamed of her? Victor whispered.
Rachel said, For weeks beforehand, I dreamt I walked up to the trailer and went
inand then it would all start again. How do you know her name?
Rachel didnt feel it was necessary to include that she was naked in her
dreamsthat was the last thing she needed to have Victor getting all excited.

57

Victor smirked, Brianna is what you would call a modern day gypsy, perhaps?
He casually lifted an eyebrow and glanced at Rachel with those smouldering
brown eyes.
Oh, Rachel said tensely.
She didnt really know what she would feel once she met up with Victor, but once
they had greeted each other at the start of recess, in the cafeteria and walked to
the library to be in private, it was clear that, despite everything, she still had
feelings for him.
He smelt of the same, sweet cologne that had enticed Rachels senses when they
slept together, their skin touching, their breaths being let out as one, their bodies
moving in a single, smooth rhythm.
Rachel, it was a bad move when you confronted Willow afterwards. You guys
basically had a fight and she left in an angry, hasty mood. Willow doesnt do
angry very well.
You seem to know a lot about her, Rachel said, coming back down to reality.
Victor shrugged. Our families are kind ofits complicated.
You said we needed to talk, and I need to know whats going on, because
something is going on.
Youre right. Its taken me two weeks to try and make my parents understand
that you need to know everything. Under different circumstances, I wouldnt be
able to tell you anything. But what Im going to tell you is a deep secret. You
cant breathe a word about it. Promise, Rachel.
I promise. She was excitedanticipation raced through her. Yet, at the same
time she was hesitant. It was strange, but lately, she was rarely afraid.
Determination was what she mostly felt now.
Willows family isnt reallyordinary. Her mother, she has this deep power in
her. Its magic. She can do things; she makes people do things
Rachel was intrigued, though a part of her didnt want to believe what he was
saying. But there had to be an explanation for all the strange things that had been
going on lately.
Look, Im not into the whole witchcraft, evil shit, but lately a lot of freaky things
have been happening; Lulu Richardss murder, Picassos death, that Brianna
woman and my dreams. In all my life, Ive never been surrounded by so much
peculiarity though its hard for me to believe things that have been known as
fantasy and fiction.
You need to trust what I say. You just have to, Rachel. You could die and I
dont know what Id do with myself if that happened. Give me a chanceI can
explain everything.
Firstly, you need to understand that Willow, her sister, August and her parents
are all magically inclined. They can do things unimaginable to the normal human
eye, and how I know all this is because my mom is a Witch, too.
Rachel was startled. She didnt know what to believe. Was this a joke? But Victor
was so serious. He had a real sense of worry about him. His face was set in a
frown. Were Witches lurking around everywhere and everyone else was too
blind to notice them?
Victor, how am I supposed to believe you? Do you have any idea how silly you
sound?
Victor smiled and Rachels heart fluttered. I know what you mean, but my mom
can prove it. Dont worry, Im not a Wizard. And neither is my dad. Its just my
mom who has powers. Thats how we and the Logan family are interlinked; by

58

the powers members of both families possess. But my family is totally different. A
few months before you and I started dating last year, Willows mother came to
my parents and asked for me and Willow tomarry.
What? Rachel asked, bewildered.
I know, just hear me out. Its sort of like an assurance that the two families will
be protective of each otherbecome bonded. But that would never have worked
out because they are bad. They gain their magical strength from human fear, from
human hatred. If they sense fear or hatred or any other negative energy from a
normal human, they use that energy and manipulate it into magical energy which
they use for their own evil deeds. They can take that energy and use it against
you, overpower your thoughts and make you do thingslike forcing you to kill
yourself.
Rachel gasped, Picasso!
Exactly, Willow was in your house when he died. She sensed whatever he was
feeling and used it to force him to take the knife and push it into his skull.
It makes sense. Oh my god, ImI,
Its a lot to take in, but let me finish. You need to know that physically, they are
useless against humans. Its bodily impossible for a Witch or Wizard to hurt a
humans flesh. You cant do it. If I was a Wizard, and I tried to pinch you right
now, I simply wouldnt be able to. But, Lulu, she was scared, beyond scared. She
was on the brink of death and the poor woman was simply and utterly terrified of
dying. The Logan family felt that energy all the way from their house. It drove
them crazy. It was like frenzythey had to have that energy! They had to! But
how were they going to? They werent in close enough range to influence her or
play mind games, but that energy, it made them excitedhappy.
So they manipulated their butler, Xavier, to break in there and kill the
womanonly because she was scared and they love fear. Anything to cause pain,
to kill, cause misery, thats pleasure for them. And thats what makes them bad.
My mom wanted nothing to do with them, so obviously we rejected the idea of
the marriage and they got really upset. Willow started drugs after I rejected her
and she kind of went crazy. By the time you and I started dating, she was fully
hooked on the heavy shit. Her parents had no choice but to put her in rehab.
When Willow came back from rehab, my family knew that the Logans would
start causing trouble again, but what could we do?
My mother isnt evil, she couldnt match their power, and each and every
member of Willows family has magical powers, Rachel. They are dangerous.
Rachel was now more interested than ever. She felt a sense of contempt knowing
all about the mysteries of Willow and her family.
What about Brianna? How does she fit in?
Brianna is Willows grandmother. She abandoned the family years ago and has
lived in that trailer ever since. Willow took you there so that she could make
Brianna proud. As sick as that sounds, its true. She took you there, so that she
could show her grandmother how powerful she was, playing around with you as
if you were a puppy. And Brianna is very strong, she entered your dreams
because she knew about you, and well, she couldnt resist playing with you, too.
Rachel shook her head in despair. But why are they causing trouble for me? I
dont want to be a victim! What have I done?
Victors eyes looked down; he seemed miserableas if this was what his long
story had led to. Its my fault. Willow saw that we were dating and she became
jealous. When we broke up, she took advantage of your friendliness and she

59

wanted to torture me, by getting close to you. I knew that once you became
friends with her, it would ultimately lead to your death. Thats what she wanted;
she wanted to cause me pain, by playing this sick game with you.
Rachel sighed. Everything leads to you; it seems
Victor gently held her hand; Rachel quickly pushed it away and glared at him.
No, she said firmly. She would not go there.
Victor went on, as if nothing happened. What makes my mom a good Witch, is
that she gains her powers from nature. She manipulates the energy of flowers,
animals, plants, the sun, and changes it into magical energy. Its not as strong as
human fear or hatred, but its a better source of power. Its a choice, Rachel, and
they choose to do it the evil way, and we have spoken to them endlessly, begging
them to change their way of life, to turn to the good side, but they have simply
carried on in their evil way of living. This time, theyve killed too many; wasted
innocent lives. And theyve involved you. This time it is war; theyve crossed the
line.
Rachel closed her eyes. His voice was that of pure bitterness. And she knew that
part of it was because he hated the fact that she was involved. He didnt want
Rachel involved in any of this, and that showed that he still had some sort of
affection towards her.
Im afraid theres something else I need to tell you, Victor said, ruefully.
Rachels eyes shot open. Is there something that can be worse than what youve
told me already?
Victor nodded. Theyve captured someone.
Rachel gasped, Who?
This weekend, yesterday actually, they got hold of Laurie.
What! Victor, we have to stop them! Theyve killed enough! Theyve caused
enough pain, enough heart sore! I cant deal with this!
Dont you understand how powerful they are? My mom is not strong enough to
fight them! They can never have enough! Its like an addiction, they need to cause
anguish. Honestly, Im kind of surprised why they havent killed her yet. Theyre
keeping her in their house, locked up.
How do you know all this?
Dianne came over to our house and told us, rather smugly. They see it like a big
joke.
Rachel was beyond upset. She was angry for what they had done and she was
worried for Laurie. Who does that? Who captures someone and then gloats
about it? Its disgusting!
Victor sighed. Listen, I know this might be too much, but since youre part of
the equation now, do you want to come over to my house tonight. My parents are
concerned. They want to talk to you, make sure that you can be trusted. They still
doubt your loyalty, even though I told them youre the most loyal person in the
world.
Rachel said firmly, Yes, Ill come. They need to talk to me and I need to hear
things from their perspective; something, anything that will help, I need to help
you. I have to.
Victor frowned. I appreciate your courage, but theres no way Ill put you in
harms way.
Rachel snapped. Victor, please, its not like you cared when you
I did care! I still care! It was a mistake, a moment of false passion! Victor
interjected.

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But you did it again and again! Im not an idiot; it wasnt like a one night stand.
You guys had a relationship.
But I still love you! I know you do, too.
It doesnt matter! Rachel hissed through gritted teeth, I didnt waste all that
time crying like a pathetic fool for nothing. The pain I was put through means
something to me. I wont bruise my pride by being with you again. You dont
deserve me. What youve confided in me now changes nothing between us.
She looked around, making sure that they were still alone in the corner of the
library.
Victor looked at her intently for a long time before saying, I will always love you.
Even when you hate me, when you despise me, Ill be there, fighting for you,
protecting you.
Rachel tilted her head to the side. What time should I be at your house?
Around six, if that suits you?
Nodding, Rachel said, Shes not at school today. What does that mean?
Victor shrugged. It doesnt matter, the fact that shes upset with you means that
shes prepared to lunge forward with some sort of plan to capture, or hurt you
Fine, Ill be on my way then. Rachel passed him, swung her backpack around
her shoulder and walked out of the library without even glancing back.

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Chapter Eleven
Rachel took a shower when she got home after school.
She was anxious about going over to Victors house that evening, yet at the same
time, she felt strong-minded about the whole situation. Something within Rachel
told her she could handle everything. And then she thought about Victor and
knots formed in her stomach. He was so stupid! He couldnt just say he still loved
her and expect everything to fall into place. Rachel was upset with him because
he didnt consider how she felt; how much pain he had put her through, but
because he loved her, she should just forget the past few weeks and run into his
arms?
I dont think so, Rachel thought glumly as she stepped out of the shower, dripping
wet.
She dried herself, wrapped a plush towel around her body and walked out of the
en suite bathroom in her bedroom.
She decided to wear a thick cotton jersey and skinny jeans. The Chicago weather
was getting windy and cold; but that was nothing new. She blow-waved her black
hair and put on some mascara. She then admired herself in the mirror. Her green
eyes were set in a stern, determined glance.
Rachel then headed downstairs, but suddenly stopped midway in her tracks. The
same black kitten that had appeared out of nowhere in her garden a while ago
was here, sitting patiently at the bottom of the staircase. Its electric blue eyes
stared at Rachel calmly.
Go away! Where did you come from? Shoo! Rachel said as she tried to get the
kitten to move. But, like the last time, it wouldnt budge. It just sat there and
stared at her. Rachel sighed uncomfortably.
Could the kitten belong to Willows family? Rachel knew that back cats were
closely related to Witches. Well, that was what she was told when she younger, in
nursery school. She had no idea how real Witches worked, and what they did. All
she knew was that the Logan family was evil and that they had magical powers.
Hopefully, Rachel would know all she needed to be the end of the night.
When she looked back at where the kitten sat, it had disappeared, much like the
last time. Shaking her head out of annoyance, Rachel walked to kitchen and saw
that the servants had prepared grilled chicken with rice and salad for her.
Stomach growling, she sat at the marble faced counter and ate quickly.
It was terribly hard for Rachel to walk into the kitchen. Picassos lifeless body
with its gory, bloodied head still popped up in her mind when she entered the
room. But, the only way to move on was to live day by dayand now that she
knew Willow was the one responsible for his death, she felt obligated to do
something about it, so that he didnt die in vain, so that his family in England
didnt suffer for nothing.
Rachel smiled at that thought and being in the kitchen seemed a little more
bearable.

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She phoned her mom after lunch and told her she would be going to Victors
house that evening. Macy was surprised at first, but quickly acknowledged it.
Rachel then propped her backpack onto the desk in the study room, took out the
textbooks she needed and begun her homework.
School was extremely dreary, only because it was almost the end of the term.
Students at Margo Lee were done with their important assignments and test, so
now they had to wait until it was holidays, which was right around the corner.
The last school day of the term was on Wednesday.
Rachel frowned when she thought about how dissimilar Margo Lee was to other
schools. It worked on a completely different curriculum and the holidays were
never in sync with the other schools. It bothered Rachel to think that she had
never really been able to interact with people from other schools, because she was
always either on holiday when they were at school, or vice versa.
Totally unnecessary, Rachel thought as she scribbled answers in her English
workbook.
The rest of the afternoon was rather mundane. Rachel flicked through the
television channels, only to be disturbed by the news headlines of Lauries
disappearance. The news anchor was a red-head woman with a round face and
boring eyes.

Laurie Tweed has been missing since Sunday morning. The eighteenyear-old senior from Margo Lee Academy disappeared when her father,
multi-millionaire entrepreneur Bradley Tweed returned home from a
business trip in Korea. Her whereabouts are unknown and police are
suspecting a,
Rachel switched the screen off. She couldnt listen. She just couldnt.
Rachel became more and more impatient and anxious as she watched the small
hand on the clock inch closer and closer to six.
By quarter to, she observed herself one last time in the hallway mirror, before
going down to the garage, which boasted more then five top-of-the-range cars.
The Worthington household had two drivers, namely Fred and Gustav.
Gustav drove Macy around, and Rachel had Fred, who dropped her off at
school, picked her up and chauffeured her wherever anywhere else she wanted to
go.
Fred, Rachel said, once she found him reading a magazine in the large camera
room across the garage.
Which shall we go with today? he asked, smiling politely.
How about we take the Ferrari? Rachel said and pointed to the slender, red car
in the corner.
Ferrari it is.
They walked towards it but stopped short.
Rachel felt the colour drain from her face.
They were facing a dangling rope. At the end of the rope was the tied neck of a
small, black kitten. Its electric-blue eyes were no longer visible, as they were
closed now. Its body stiff, the rope dangling lazily from the ceiling. The tension of
the rope around its neck was so strong, that Rachel could see blood oozing out,
crawling through its dark fur and dripping onto the cold, hard pavement below.

63

Rachel looked away. She felt nauseated. Freds face was chalk-white.
Can you still take me? she whispered, with anger edging in her voice. She had
to get to Victors house immediately.
Fred nodded, looking at her. I dont know who would do this. Im sorry you had
to see it, Miss Rachel. he said Please, you have to believe me. I swear it wasnt
me, he added hastily, fear of being fired evident in his voice.
I know exactly whos responsible for this mess Rachel thought with rage pulsing
through her veins. Can you just clean it up after you drop me off? she asked.
And I know it wasnt you, Fred.
Yes. Thats fine, he whispered, still overwhelmed by the shock, but relieved
none the less since this couldnt be pinned on him.
As they walked past the hanging dead kitten and got into the car, Rachel added
sharply, My mother hears nothing of this.
Of course, maam, Fred muttered as he started the engine and drove off.
Rachel stepped into the long hallway as Mr Cromweller closed the dark, wooden
double doors behind her.
He cleared his throat and said in a gruff voice, Rachel, if we could go into the
family room, Janine and Victor are waiting there.
Rachel nodded eagerly. He led her down the narrow hallway into a large yet cosy
room. The walls were painted light brown. In the middle of the hazel coloured
wooden floor, lay a lavish maroon Persian carpet that was beautifully decorated
with dark green patterns.
Victor and his mother were seated on the largest couch of the black leather lounge
suite in the room, but the moment Rachel entered the room, they stood up and
faced her, smiling weakly.
They were uncertain of how she would react when she came, but something in
Victors expression told Rachel that he was immensely relieved she was here. Did
he still doubt whether she believed him or not?
Mrs Cromweller gestured to the nearest couch and said, Take a seat.
Rachel did so and Mr Cromweller situated himself on the single couch, anxiously
looking at his wife then at Rachel.
Mrs Cromweller wore a green, loose fitted dress. Her black hair was loose and her
face was taut with concern. Victor was dressed in a plaid red and black jersey and
a pair of baggy jeans. Mr Cromweller wore black pants and a grey golf-shirt.
They all seemed so ordinary, so normal, yet Rachel knew just how far from the
truth that was.
Something happened again just as I was coming here, she said, breaking the
ice.
Victor frowned with worry. What was it? he asked in a tired, distraught voice.
Rachel took a deep breath. There was a black kitten that popped out of nowhere
in the past few weeks. I didnt say anything about it because I didnt think it was a
big deal. But today, in the garageit was deadhanging from a rope
Mr Cromweller shot a quick glance at Victor and they stared at each other with
narrowed eyes, as if they were having a silent discussion.
Then they looked at Mrs Cromweller, who just sighed and said, Yet again,
another jab at us
Mrs Cromweller, Im sorry but if there is any way that I can help fight them, just
let me know. We cant succumb to their evil. They cant retaliate towards you by
hurting and killing others.

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We appreciate your courage, and Im glad that Victor decided to tell you
everything today at school, but it seems to me that he didnt stress just how much
danger youre in. And were too weak to fight them.
You say that as if youre giving up? You can fight them! At the end of the day,
youre good and theyre bad! Good will always prevail! You can fight them! We
can! She was getting worked up. Frustration was taking over.
Youre not being logical here, Mr Cromweller said. Janine is the only one
with magic in our family, so essentially, Victor and I cant do anythingand
neither can you. No matter how good my wife is, she cant defeat four evil
magicians. Its not possible.
So, what, were just going to stand by idly and watch them kill the people we
care about one by one? What about my mom? Rachel cried out.
We can hide the two of you.
Rachel gasped. No! No way! And what if they kill all of you?
They cant. As much as they hate us for not allowing Victor to marry Willow,
they cant kill us. There are laws protecting Witches and Wizards.
So, even if you could fight them, you wouldnt be allowed to?
Mrs Cromweller nodded slowly. But, if we were strong enough, we could call on
magicians of different clans to help us out. It would still be illegal, but we could
try. But its one against fourno clan of any race is dumb enough to jeopardise
there lives by helping us, if there was a chance we could lose, or worse, get
caught.
So, there are moreclans? It felt odd saying that word. Rachel thought of
hunters and jungles when she said it for the first time.
Yes, but they wont help.
Victor spoke. The next step now is to persuade your mom to go into hiding.
I dont want to tell her about any of this. And shes too concerned about her
work to go into hiding. Shell laugh it off.
She doesnt need to know. If you want, I can influence her, Mrs Cromweller
said, hesitantly.
I thought only bad magicians could influence people?
Rachel, magic pulses in all magicians, be it evil ones or good ones. With that
percentage of magic, we can do what we like, so I could influence Macy if thats
what you wish.
Mrs Cromweller continued speaking when she saw that Rachel was still
confused. When that magic within us is used up, we then look for the power
from nature orin the Logan familys casehuman emotions, albeit fear or
hatred.
Rachel gaped at them, struggling to ask something without seeming callous.
She groaned. This is all socrazy! I dont mean to be rude, Mrs Cromweller,
but I need to see proof.
There was an awkward silence in the room.
I beg your pardon? Mrs. Cromweller said. She looked slightly offended.
Rachel groaned. I have to see thisthis magic that you claim you have. Im
sorry, but I just have to see it to fully believe it. My conscience wont be satisfied
until I see some sort of truth to all that Victor and you have told me.
Mrs Cromweller stared at her, and for a second Rachel thought she was going to
be kicked out of the house.
However, Mrs Cromweller surprised Rachel by smiling slightly. She reached out
and grabbed a silver vase from the coffee table. She then closed her eyes and

65

Rachel watched fascinated as the vase began moving upwards from the palm
of Mrs Cromwellers hands. It hung suspended in the air for a few minutes, before
dropping down to her hand again.
Is your conscience satisfied? Mrs Cromweller asked with a happy yet mocking
tone to it.
Rachel couldnt help but smile.
Yes, yes, it is, she said weakly. That was the most surreal thing she had ever
seen in her life.
Victor shook his head ruefully. Time is running out. We need you to either
convince your mom to disappear with you for a while, or my mom can influence
her. Either way, youre in danger.
Yes, but everyone is in danger. Claire! James! Laurie! Oh, God! Laurie! What
are we going to do? Why did they take her?
When Dianne came here, she hinted many times that we had to go there and get
the girl ourselves. She said she would influence the girl to kill herself if we didnt
go and claim her, Mr Cromweller said, looking ashamed.
Rachel was dumfounded. She turned to Mrs Cromweller. If you dont do
somethinganythingthen youre just as bad as them, she whispered, trying to
keep her irritation at bay.
You should be grateful. If it wasnt for us, Willow would have influenced you by
now, or tortured you!
Its because of you that Im in this mess! If you guys didnt piss them off, I
wouldnt be here.
Victor stood up uncomfortably. Look, now isnt the time to argue, Mom
Mrs Cromweller looked up, a flash of annoyance on her face. Victor, speak to
her.
Rachel also rose. Victor walked past her and gestured for her to follow. They
waked out of the room, towards the end of the hallway a circular, wooden
staircase spiralled to the second storey. They took quick steps and arrived
upstairs.
Victor then walked to nearest door, opened it and said, Please come in.
Rachel hesitantly did so.
Victors bedroom looked something out of a designers magazine. It was
impeccable. His king sized bed was in the middle of the room, looking majestic
and beautiful, with its straight, honey coloured duvet set. The beds headboard
was made of the finely carved oak. Random pieces of the headboard were
delicately carved out and other parts jutted out just a little bit, giving the oak an
artistic look. The farther end of the room had a tall bookcase. Rachel could see
thick and thin spines cover all the shelves. Beside the bookcase was a curved,
dark desk with an office chair. On the desk was a laptop, a tall beige lamp and a
paper pad. All the curtains in the room were drawn aside and the windows were
open, allowing chilly wind to glide in.
Before she could help herself, Rachel smiled. This was such an inviting room.
Victor noticed her smile and said, You always did like it here.
Rachels smile disappeared. I never really came to your room often, maybe once
or twice.
But, Rachel now you know why I had to be so cautious about my life.
Yeah, well your attempts sucked, by the way, because Im in so deep now,
Rachel said darkly.
Mhm, but that can all change; if you allow us to hide you and your mom.

66

Victor Im not going to hide out and you know it, so just cut the crap out. And I
wont allow that family to lay a finger on Laurie.
Victor lost his cool. You know what, fine! Go ahead! Go run to their house and
rescue her. You just dont get how dangerous they are!
Rachel looked around impatiently and went to sit down on the office chair.
Victor just stood where he was and crossed his arms across his chest.
Isnt there anyone that can help you? Your mom talked about some kind of law;
well cant that law punish the Logans for what theyre doing? Rachel asked in
wearily.
Victor sighed. Unfortunately, magic laws work in a messed up system. Theyll
blame my family for not agreeing to the Bonding Ceremony.
TheBonding Ceremony, whats that? Rachel asked, confused.
When Willow wanted to marry me. Its called that because, not only does the
two in question marry, but the families unite, as one and thus, protect each other.
Our law stated that if one family approaches the other and asks for a Bonding
Ceremony, you cant declineits against the law to decline. So, technically, we
cant report this, because we declined.
So, it doesnt even matter whether theyre good or bad? Rachel asked.
Victor shook his head. Being good or bad is a choice. He explained, And at
the end of the day, the Witch or Wizard who started the problem, will get the
blame.
There arent other magicians who can help you?
No, there are a few Chicago magicians, and together were known as a clan to
the rest of the supernatural society, but they wont want to get involved. We only
get together on rare occasions if a supernatural threat is in the area, promising
chaos for our magical society as a whole, rather than just two families.
Rachel was intrigued now. Do you get other types of magicians? Like, do you
only get ones like your mom and the Logans?
Victor thought for a minute. There is only one clan of, what we call, Eternalytes.
Therere much more powerful than Witches and Wizards, but theyre all
essentially the same; except for the fact that an Eternalyte is immortal, whereas a
Witch or Wizard lives the span of a normal human. They also dont need external
energy, since their bodies are filled infinitely with magic. Also, an Eternalyte is
physically able to harm or kill a human. As you know, my mom or the Logans
cant do that.
Rachel frowned. So, no use asking them for helpwhat else is there?
Well, then you get your scattered clans of Changers. These clans are pretty
harmless. They cant hurt humans, and they use natures energy as their source of
power, so theyre good. And, as their name suggests, they can change into
different forms, like trees or animals or even people.
Rachel just shook her head. Hopelessness was infesting her mind. None of them
can help us? Even as a favour, they wont help us defeat the Logan family?
Rae, magicians only care for themselves and their loved ones. They dont want
to risk getting on the wrong track with the law. All the different races are forced
to follow one law. Its a law under our ruler, Jasper Miles and his wife Aileen.
Theyre the king and queen.
Whoa! Like an actual king and queen, sitting on a throne in a castle?
Victor smiled slightly. Not exactly. Theyre like any other family, just very rich
and respected. Theyre Eternalytes so besides them, there is only one other clan
of Eternalytes.

67

Rachel grunted sarcastically. Well, their law system sucks!

It does, but its one we have to follow. And my family didnt when we declined
the Bonding Ceremony. So, we have to just sit back and wait. If the Logans offer
another chance for the Ceremony, then we have to take it and hope they wont
harm anyone again. Until then, you have to hide, Rachel. You have to be as safe
as you can.
Victor, isnt there any hope? We cant give up! Isnt there anyone that can
helpanyone?!
Rachel, nowhat part of no dont you understand, damn it! I told you what the
different races of magicians are. None of them can help! The Witches cant help!
The Eternalytes cant help! The Changers cant help! The Witch-Child,
Victor stopped talking midway. His eyes widened, his lips parted and he thought.
Slowly, very slowly his mouth stretched into a toothy smile.
Oh, of course, he groaned and put hand on his forehead. How could we have
been so stupid?
He had forgotten Rachel was there and looked as if he was talking to himself.
What is it? Tell me. What is a Witch-Child? Rachel asked, annoyed that she
was being ignored.
He rushed out of his bedroom and climbed down the stairs, taking two steps at a
time. Rachel followed, right behind him.
Mom, mom, weve been so stupid all this time! he bellowed as he stormed
into the family room.
Mrs Cromweller was still seated on the sofa. After she heard him, she said,
Well, please continue.
Victor took a deep breath. The Witch-Children
Whatever reaction he expected from his parents, this was not it. His mother
raised an eyebrow and shook her head. His father simply just closed his eyes,
wishing this could all be over.
Victor, we will never stoop so low! How dare you even suggest that? And, even
if they could help us, I wont waste energy with a Summoning Ritual. Honestly, I
thought you were better than that! Mrs Cromweller said in an annoyed,
dispassionate manner.
Victor glared at her. This is ridiculous! Mom, how can you be like this? Lets just
trytry to summon them and ask for help!
And you dont even care about what theyll want in return? The things they ask
for are just disgusting!
Honestly mom, does it matter? Its better than another innocent person dying.
You think that if we wait, the Logans will come to us and offer up the Bonding
Ceremony again. Well, I highly doubt that! The longer we wait, the more deaths
will occur. Our only hope is the Witch-Children. Please mom, please!
Rachel drew up her strength and asked, Whore the Witch Children?
Victor turned to her. Theyre another race of magicians; ones that my mom
failed to mention when we tried to get help.
They can help us?
Yeah, but my mom wont agree to it.
Do you think that for one second I never wished I could agree? I want their help!
Its just their twisted conditions Mrs Cromweller said, shuddering.
Rachel was frustrated now. What do they ask for?
Flesh, bones, blood, limbs Mr Cromweller muttered under his breath.
Theyre cannibals, Victor explained.

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And I wont let them hurt us! Mrs Cromweller declared.

You know what Mom, you have no choice! Prepare the Summoning Ritual, or I
swear Ill go to the Logans and let them kill me!
Wait, wont the Witch-Children kill us, too? Rachel asked.
No. said Victor impatiently, Theyll just ask for a piece of flesh or something.
Gross!
Yeah, well Rachel its the only way! he snapped.
Mrs Cromweller seemed to be thinking things intensely in her mind.
Eventually she muttered weakly, Fine, Ill do it. Ill perform the Summoning
Ritual.
There was a long pause and everyone looked at each other.
Then Victor spoke. Rae, I think its time for you to leave.
You guys spent all this time telling me how much danger I was in, and now
youre sending me home?
The girls right. She needs to stay here, Mr Cromweller said.
She cant watch the ritual, Victor said, silentlyalmost in anguish.
I dont have to. Ill go to another room. My mom needs to be safe, too.
Go to your house, persuade your mom to spend the night here, pack your bags,
and come back, Mrs Cromweller ordered.
Rachel nodded. Right, Ill just call my driver.
Better yet, Ill take you. And I can ask your mom to come over, Mr
Cromweller said, standing up.
Rachel looked at Victor. He gave an approving nod, and stood asidewatching
his dad lead Rachel towards the front door.

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Chapter Twelve
You want me to spend the night at your house, Charles? Rachels mom
asked in a cautious tone.
Mr Cromweller nodded with a broad smile. You see, Rachel here was so sweet
when she came to visit us tonight, and well, she wanted to sleep over, but then
Janine suggested that you should come, too. We could catch upits been so
long since we all last got together.
Macy was suspicious. Oh, Charles, I appreciate the gesture, but honestly, weve
never really been close friends and I dont feel comfortable leaving my house for a
full night. If Rachel wants to spend the night, thats alright. I really cant,
though.
Rachel stood between them in her living room. Her mom was very surprised
when she saw Mr Cromweller enter the houseright behind Rachelbut she
was friendly and polite, until he asked her to sleep over at his house. Rachel knew
it, thoughshe knew her mom would never accept the offer. It was downright
weird, even if Mr Cromweller was smiling from ear to ear and talking in the
friendliest voice Rachel ever heard.
But now, he was giving up. His outstretched smile was turning into a faint grin
and his eyes let go of their friendly shine.
Okay, okayI suppose I agree with you. Rachel, do you still want to sleep over?
Youre more than welcome to
A wave of panic crashed about inside Rachel. What was going to happen now?
What was the plan?
She shot a questioning look at Victors father, but he just calmly looked back at
her, waiting for an answer, too.
Ium, well, Rachel stuttered, but was interrupted by the intercom in the
front hall ringing loudly.
Oh, goodness, its eight in the eveningwho could that be? Macy said,
annoyed as she rushed out of the living room and into the front hall.
Rachel took the opportunity to ask Mr Cromweller what was going to happen
now. But all he said was to be patient and that everything would fall into place.
This only lead to Rachels increasing panic and impatience.
Macy walked into the room again.
Who is it? Rachel demanded.
Its your friend, Willow.
Colour drained from Rachels face and her eyes widened. Oh, no she
whispered weakly.
Mr Cromweller rushed to the hall and peeked out of the front doors peephole.
He could see bright car lights head closer and closer to the entrance of the house.
He paced back to the living room. Rachel? Rachel!
Rachel slowly looked at himall hope washed away.
Smile; nothing will happen. I promise, he said encouragingly, the wrinkles on
his face showing evermore as he drew up his mouth into a broad smile again.
Rachel nodded firmly. I can do this, she tried to motivate herself.
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What in the world are you two talking about? Macy asked, raising an eyebrow.
They both ignored her and waited. The car engines came stopped roaring. The
sound of two car doors opening and then banging shut were clearly heard.
Macy walked out of the room again and went to the hall to open the door.
Willow, how nice of you to visit, and Dianne, this is a lovely surprise! Macy
spoke, animatedly.
Macy then led them to the living room, where Rachel sat on the couch, alongside
Mr Cromweller.
Rachel had only ever seen Dianne Logan at formal functions and she never really
spoke to her or took notice of how she lookeduntil now.
Dianne was very tall and big built, not fat, just big and strong-looking. Her blonde
hair was waist-long and straight. Just like Willow, she had a scatter of freckles on
her face. She looked threatening and dangerous, now that Rachel knew what she
was capable of. She wore black pants and a navy long-sleeved shirt.
Willow was beside her as they came in, observing Rachel and Mr Cromweller in
a humorous, almost gleeful wayyet under that, the essence of malice within
them was almost palpable. It angered Rachel, triggered what she had been feeling
the moment she heard the truth about everything. Seeing them now, it enraged
her.
Dianne sat down and so did Willowwho was like a puppy-dog trying to please
her mother.
Well, I wasnt expecting to see you here, Charles, Dianne said. She had a deep,
husky voice.
Mr Cromweller cleared his throat. I could say the same for you, Dianne.
Mhm, Dianne murmured and turned her attention to Rachel. Hello. Willows
been talking about you non-stop!
Thats nice, Rachel saidher voice weak and soft.
I hope you dont mind us barging in like this, Macy, but Willow practically
begged me to bring her here to see her friend. I hope its all right?
Oh, of course, of course, Im glad you brought her. Would you like anything to
drink? Macy asked.
No thank you.
Willow faced Rachel. How have you been? Seems like ages since we last spoke.
Rachel couldnt bear to look at her. She could see it now, the twisted, malevolent
sneer on her lips, the evil, gloating stare of her golden eyes.
Rachel somehow found the courage to stare right back. Yes, it does seem like
ages, she said firmly.
But then something happened. It was wrongout of place. And it wasnt
something any of the others in the room could see, because even Rachel couldnt
see it. It was something inside her. She could feel it lurching around in her body,
eagerly searching in anticipation, excitement. As it crawled around impatiently,
Rachel stood up in a blind panic, excused herself and rushed out into the front
hall, and ran upstairs to her bedroom.
Shit! Whats going on? Rachel thought, rushing to steady herself as she grasped the
edges of her bed.
Honestly, she couldnt place this sensation into something she had felt before. It
was powerful, and more than anything physical, it was more of an intangible
forcelike an influence.
Shit! Shit! Shit! Theyre trying to influence me! Rachel suddenly realised, shaking
terribly.

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She slowly sat down on her bed and waited. She didnt know why she was
waiting, or what she was waiting for, but she just closed her eyes and tried
focusing on her breathing.
The searching influence eerily enclosed her mind, and with a sudden, new jolt of
panic, Rachel felt as it took control of her last thought, the last part of her mind
Charles was worried, very worried. He tried to keep his fear at bay, but the ever
present anger he felt when he saw the Logans was boiling silently inside of him.
And as much as he tried to push the emotion away, he knew that they must have
been sensing some of his anger.
He wondered whether Rachel was alright. He could see how uncomfortable she
was when they walked into her house, but at the same time, he knew her
emotions were overwhelming her. That was why Dianne was blissfully smiling
and chatting to Macy now, who was completely unaware that the woman she
was totally speaking to was using her daughter as a tool, as a source of magical
power.
He had to speak to Janine immediately.
Macy, would you excuse me for a minute? I need to use the restroom, he said,
trying to sound confident.
Macy nodded pleasantly and replied, The nearest one is across the front hall, the
first door on the right.
He stood up and walked to the bathroom, a sense of relief washing over him as
soon as he was out of the living room.
Closing the bathroom door behind him, Charles quickly pulled his cell phone out
of his pocket and phoned his wife.
Hello? Janines familiar voice answered.
Shes here, along with her daughter, Charles said quickly.
There was a stiff, uncomfortable pause on the other line. He could imagine Janine
thinking now, her mind abuzz as she tried to come up with a solution.
Where is Rachel?
Shes upstairs in her room. Macy is in the living room, talking to Dianne and
Willow.
Why is she upstairs?
I dont know. She just excused herself and rushed out
Check on her. Im on my way. Then she hung up.
Charles put his phone back in his pocket. As he was about to exit the bathroom,
his reflection in the mirror caught his eye. He looked pale and sickly. There were
dark blue rings under his hazel eyes, and his lips were dry. He quickly opened the
tap and splashed cold water onto his face. He dried his face with a small towel,
and inhaled sharply.
But just as he was about to open the bathroom door, he heard footsteps just
outside. And then he watched as the door opened. Standing outside, in the
hallway was Dianne, smiling.
What did you do to Macy? Charles asked, a dry lump forming in his throat.
Nothing at all, Dianne said, widening her eyes and washing away her smile.
Im innocent.
Charles growled impatiently. Far from it, Dianneyoure a pathetic excuse for
a Witch!

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Dianne hummed passionately and closed her eyes. Thats right, get mad. Youd
just be giving me more poweralthough, that lousy girl was angry enough for the
both of you.
You influenced her. Charles said slowly, silently.
I did, yes. Shes particularly difficult to overpower. It took a while before I was
able to reach her mind. Interestingly so, Im surprised by how much you and your
wife badmouthed my family. The girl was fuming; outraged by the sight of
Willow and me.
She needed to know the truth.
The truth, Charles, is that your bitch of a son couldnt marry my daughter. You
and your wife forbid him to. Then, my daughter became a drug addict and had to
endure a year of torturous rehab. We will kill, influence and devour power until
we get what we want.
And what will that be, Dianne? a commanding voice asked from across the
hallway.
Dianne bolted around and sneered. Charles was glad that the voice belonged to
Janine. Pride washed over him as he slid out of the bathroom and pressed himself
against the wall, watching as the two witches spoke.
Revenge, retributioneverything that will cause you pain! Dianne answered.
How will we allow the Bonding Ceremony to take place if you are so evil? We
told you before, change your ways and we will allow our son to marry your
daughter, we will become one united family. But you have to change, Janine
said calmly and patiently.
Dianne shook her head. Have you felt the power of human emotions? Its
invigorating!
Then move to another town, stop killing here.
Dianne then walked closer to Janine, her strides great and mighty. She was much
taller then Janine, but Janine stood firm and ready for attack.
If I could, I would kill you and your family in a second, Dianne whispered.
Just leave. Take Willow and go.
Then Dianne pushed past her and within a minute, Janine heard the front door
bang shut.
They were gone.
Rachel opened her eyes. At least, thats what she thought she did as she regained
her balance. She mentally shook herself, and cried out in pain.
Blood was oozing out of her wrist. The red stained edges of a pair of scissors was
on the floor. She slowly stood up and felt immense dizziness. The deep, long cuts
on her wrist were burning.
The bedroom door burst open and Victor rushed to Rachels side.
What did they make you do? he asked, out of breath. Rachel could hear the
worry in his voice.
She stretched out her wrist and showed him the cut. Blood continued dripping
onto the floor.
Come on, he said gently as he held her unwounded arm around his shoulder
and led her out the room, her bleeding wrist tucked against her body.
They stumbled down the stairs. Mr and Mrs Cromweller were in the front hall.
Ill clean this up right away Mrs Cromweller said quickly as she walked into
the living room and grabbed the small pot of roses which sat on the corner desk of

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the living room. With the small pot of roses, she walked back to Rachel and
smiled reassuringly. She then closed her eyes and inhaled deeply.
Rachel watched in awe as the roses shrivelled up and their colour faded from a
deep red to a faint pink. Mrs Cromweller then opened her eyes and gave the pot
to her husband, who was beside her.
Okay, this wont hurt a bit. She extended her arm to Rachels and calmly
touched the deep cuts on her wrist, which slowly began to heal.
The deep, bloody cuts started sealing. The scars also started to vanish until
Rachel was left with a perfectly normal arm.
Wow, she said faintly. Thank you.
Mrs Cromweller smiled kindly. Now, we need to check on Macy.
Rachel looked around. Where is she?
Shes in here. Victor had walked to the living room and was looking very pale.
Rachel rushed to him and looked down. Her mother was on the floor, limp and
dead-looking.
Rachel couldnt see anyone in the room, then. All she saw was her mothers
body. All she saw was death. She felt a hand around her waist. It tried to lift her
up as she collapsed onto the floor, her cries becoming one long, moaning sound
of agony.
And then she felt a surge of weakness take over and her eyelids became heavy.

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Chapter Thirteen
Rachel? Are you awake? a voice askedit sounded like Victors.
Rachel heard her own grumpy groan and then she managed to open her eyes.
A head of rumpled dark brown hair moved back and Rachel could make out a
pointy nose and thin lipsand those eyesthose dreamy dark eyes.
Victor? she mumbled.
Im right here.
Rachel felt her surroundings. She was lying on something soft and comfortable.
She felt her head supported on a big puffy pillow.
Im on a bed. Where am I? she asked.
Youre in one of my guestrooms. Your mother is perfectly safe and protected.
Rachel looked at him in confusion, but it only took a second for her to remember
the last thing before she had passed out; her motherlying on their living room
floor, seemingly dead.
Rachel gasped as she realised the significance of what Victor had just said. Shes
alive?
Victor nodded and smiled. How do you feel?
Rachel thought about that. She had a killer headache, that was for sure, but other
then thatand a growling stomach, she was fine. She looked outside, it was
sunny. What day is it?
Wednesday, youve been unconscious for a day and a half. Its two-thirty now.
Oh, Rachel said, glumly.
The door to the bedroom opened and Mrs Cromweller walked in. She wore a pair
of navy pants and a dark green blouse. Her black hair was loose and reached her
elbows.
Rachel, I thought I heard your voice! How are you? Victor, get the girl
something to eat and drink.
Victor stood and walked out. Mrs Cromweller took his place beside Rachel, who
had pushed herself up on the bed.
Victor told you that your mother is well? she asked.
Rachel nodded. Thanksfor everything.
Dont thank me just yet. Rachel, Ive put Macy under a spell.
What?
Ive put her under a harmless sleeping spell. Absolutely nothing will happen to
her. But I think it best that she remains under the spell until we defeat the
Logans.
Although she felt uneasy, knowing that her mom was laying in a bed,
unconscious, Rachel knew it was the best thing to do. Macy was caring and
understanding, but she was also a narrow-minded and logical person. She just
wouldnt be able to comprehend the magic going on around her, so she definitely
had to remain unaware.
Mrs Cromweller, I think that youre right, but Im confused. Why did we have
to persuade my mom to go into hiding with me, if all you could have done was
put her under a sleeping spell?

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Sleeping spells are complicated. They involve so much than just putting a
human under a restful slumber. I needed to consume heaps of energy from the
back garden in order to perform the spell. Keep in mind that the spell includes
keeping the human healthy. The powers we need to perform the spell include
making the human have enough energy in their body. Do you understand?
Rachel nodded slowly. So, you just need to really careful, so as not to kill the
human when theyre under the spell?
Exactly, but I keep an eye on Macy every hour, and so far, the spell is working
very wellDont worryhave faith in me Rachel, Im taking good care of your
mother. She smiled and put her hand on Rachels forehead. No fever, youre as
healthy as a horse.
Thanks, I know. I appreciate everything. Im just really hungry. Rachel pushed
off the blanket she was under and stood up. Walking felt good and she took small
steps to the corner mirror of the small room. Her black hair was draped around
her shoulders. Her skin was pale and the shimmer of her green eyes was gone
instead there was a dull, gloomy stare which made Rachel look zombie-like.
Well, I look great! Rachel said sarcastically.
Mrs Cromweller gave a dry laugh. Dont worry about that. Monday night was
rough for all of us. And being unconscious for almost two days couldnt have
been easy for you.
Have you performed the Summoning Ritual?
Not yet.
What about Laurie? Frustration pulsed through Rachel as she thought about
her friend and the trouble she was in.
They wont kill her. Theyre only using her as bait, to lure us, so that if we
declare a fight, theyll have a reasonable excuse to kill us. Of course, once the
Witch-Children agree to be our allies in the fight, they will be the ones to die and
rot in hell.
Lets summon them tonight. Rachel was eager to end all of the suffering that
the Logans had endured on innocent people.
Thats a good idea.
Just then, Victor walked slowly back into the room, careful not to spill the juice
and the contents of the plate he was carrying on a tray. I hope you like
scrambled eggs, he said as he placed the tray onto the corner desk beside the
bed.
Rachel smiled and felt only warmth and admiration for Victor, who looked
utterly irresistible in his Billabong t-shirt, which showed off his defined muscles
and slender body.
I love scrambled eggs. Thanks. Rachel told him, sat on the bed and began
eating the food as Mrs Cromweller and Victor left her alone in the room for some
piece and quiet while she ate.
The Summoning Ritual is a very delicate yet powerful ritual. Rachel, Im asking
you again if you are comfortable being a part of it. Mrs Cromweller was walking
up and down her dining hall, looking very agitated and worried.
No matter how much I deny it, I am a part of all of this whether I want to be or
not. I want to be here. I want to see this.
Victor grunted from the corner wall he was leaning against. The Witch-Children
are not appealing and nor are they pretty little things. They can ask for anything

76

and they sure as hell can kill us all and eat us within a second. They are brutal
and violent, but they are also mystical and powerful. Keep your guard up and be
prepared. His voice was full of seriousness and he had a maturity about him that
Rachel only ever caught glimpses of once in a while (especially when they were
dating).
Okay, I understand. Please, Im not an idiot. I know the danger here. Ive seen
what magic and evil can do first-hand.
As long as you know that, then I think we should start. Janine? Mr Cromweller
prompted calmly.
Right, if we can all sit in a circle on the floor.
They all did so. It was seven in the evening and the dining hall was decided to be
the best place to perform the ritual. The hall was dark and cold, but it also had an
alluring appeal to it, with its luxurious chandelier and dark wooden floor. The
actual dining table was long and narrow and looked like something out of an
historic film. Rachel, Victor and his parents sat crossed leg at the end of the table,
on the floor, which was cold but smooth against Rachels hands as she as she
tried to make herself comfortable.
In the middle of the circle, Mrs Cromweller placed a small, green leaf. She then
closed her eyes and hummed. The sound seemed to vibrate through the circle and
Rachel felt as it vibrated within hermaking her eardrums dance and bask in the
sound. She could feel her skin jump and down in excitement as Mrs Cromweller
continued, deepening the hum until it began to sound more like an urgent call to
somethingsomeone within the dark realms of the unknown.
Then, Rachel stared in amazement and utter awe as the leaf on the wooden tile
began to move. Noit was lifting. It was lifting in mid-air.
As it moved higher above them, it slowly twisted and warped in quick, sharp
moves. Mist began to form around the leaf as it became harder to see around the
thickening mist, which seemed to duplicate as it crawled around the circle and
darken the faces of everyone. Rachel couldnt see anything except for the grey
mist.
And then, just as it formed so quickly, the greyness disappeared and in the middle
of the circle now stood a little girl not more then eight years old. She had a very
intimidating stare as her dark, fathomless eyes scanned everyone. When she
gazed at Rachel, she raised a thin blond eyebrow and pushed her smooth blond
hair over her shoulder and turned her attention to Mrs Cromweller.
Janine, what a great pleasure this is, although I hope you hear the sarcasm in my
voice.
Rachel gasped. She couldnt stop herself, but luckily it wasnt a very loud gasp so
no-one really looked at her.
This little girl had the voice of a fully matured, adult woman. When she
addressed Mrs Cromweller, she had spoken in such a different voice than what
Rachel was expecting that she couldnt help but gasp.
And then it all kind of clicked into place. Rachel realised with a shuddering shock
that this was a woman trapped in a girls body.
Yes, the more Rachel thought about it, the more it seemed to make sense. And as
she looked at the Witch-Child again, she was sure of it. She could now see the
ancient-looking, timeless pain and established maturity in those black eyes.
Tavahna, I am glad you have answered my summons. I am in need of your
clans strength and protection in combat.
Tavahna smiled slyly, taking small steps to Mrs Cromweller.

77

I see. But you do realise that we will ask for payment.

Yes. I do realise that. We have known each other for many years and I hope you
wont ask of something tomomentous. Rachel could see Mrs Cromweller look
downas if she couldnt stand what Tavahna would say next.
You humour me! I look out for my clan and you were the one who called me
here. Anything I ask in return is very simply substantiated for the protection and
fight in your battle.
Very well, what is it that you want in return?
Your son, Tavahna said with firmness and clarity.
Rachel felt her heart fall flat in her chest. No!
Mrs Cromweller stood up quickly and looked down at the woman trapped in the
girls body.
I will not accept! Once again, you ask for too much.
Tavahna laughed. It was a dry, grim laugh that sent shivers down Rachels spine.
Then Victor spoke. He had a monotonous tone to his voicealmost emotionless.
I accept, since it is my body and my choice.
Tavahna turned her head and gave a sharp squeal of joy. Well, this is just
wondrous. Since you have summoned me, I will now be able to sense when your
battle occurs, and I will appear at the scene with my clan and we will protect this
family with our lives.
Before anyone could protest, the Witch-Child turned on her spot and simply
evaporated into thin-air.
She had left and she was going to kill and eat Victor after the fight.

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Chapter Fourteen
In an unfamiliar bedroom that night, Rachel cried.
She cried long and hard and wished that she could just fall asleep already. But she
couldnt. As much as she tried, her body would force her to stay awake in the
large bed and stare at the ceiling above.
Sighing, she got out of bed and switched on the lights.
Shit! What was happening? Was Victor going to definitely die now? And why had
he agreed to something sosuicidal?
It was wrongall of it. Everyone thought so, except Victor.
When the Summoning Ritual ended, his parents hadnt said a word but stared at
him with sadness and anger. Mrs Cromweller had been too shocked to speak, and
Mr Cromweller had simply put his head down and wept. It was a strange thing,
seeing a grown man cry like that, but Rachel knew the significance of what Victor
had done. He killed himselfbasically. And Rachel probably cried her eyes out
after the ritual, too. She couldnt remember really wellthe shock was
overwhelming.
But now, in the yellowing light of the guest bedroom, Rachel felt it all. She felt
the pain and the sadness. To live a life without Victor waswas just heartwrenching. The tears streamed down her face with in a non-stop fluid motion.
Randomly, Rachel thought whether her tears would ever run out
And then she heard a light knock on the door.
She spun around and felt a mixture of longing, unbearable sadness and confusion
as Victor rushed to her and kissed her mouth long and hard.
The world wasnt important anymore. The new, magical world and all its pain
and evil and death no longer mattered as Victors eager, urgent mouth with its
caressing lips overwhelmed and consumed every emotion within Rachel.
When their lips finally parted, Rachels euphoria crashed with a thunderous fall
and she looked into his dark, mystical eyes.
Why? she asked, her tears finally coming to a stop.
Victor smiled sadly. Its the right thing to do.
No! I want you here! I want you with me; I want to work things out. Youre
young! You cant die! I wont let you! Victor! Exasperated, Rachel slouched
back onto the bed and Victor sat beside her, putting his arm around her shoulder.
He was calm, peaceful, and that angered Rachel. She wanted to understand him
and feel what he felt.
Ive always had deep feelings for you. They were never faked. Claire was always
seducing me behind your back. She would touch me inappropriately; she would
do things that I couldnt resist. But I should have had some sort of decency and
respect for you; instead I started sleeping with her. It was wrong and Im sorry.
You have no idea how sorry I am.
You dont need to forgive me. I wouldnt forgive myself. But when Im gone,
youll need friends by your side, and thats why I ask that you forgive Claire.
Shes going through some pretty hard shit herself and she needs you as much as
you need her. As much as she wanted to sleep with me, she would torture herself
for betraying you. It was a mistake, people make mistakes, Rachel.
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As for my approaching death, well I want to be remembered for something good

and I think this is a perfect time for that. Rachel, when we were dating I would
often say Id die for you. I meant it then, I mean it now. This is for you. I love
you. Ill do whatever it takes to protect you. The Witch-Children will offer up
their ultimate powers in the battle and the Logans will be outnumbered. Victor
ended in a serious, strained tone.
There was silence for a while. Rachel thought about Victors words. He had
spoken with a sombre tone that had certain finality to it; like he was accepting his
fate and he was trying to form closure with Rachel.
She couldnt argue with him and tell him how wrong he was. She had to accept
and appreciate his words because no matter what she said, he would still offer
himself up to the Witch-Children.
As hard as it was, Rachel forced herself to say, Okay.
Victor closed his eyes and smiled again with an uncomfortable, yet familiar
sadness. That was one of the reasons why I always loved you. You were so
understanding; it would hurt me up inside.
Why are you speaking in the past tense? Its like youre already dead.
I am, technically.
Victor, stop it! Stop trying to be this high and mighty martyr wannabe, please! If
you love me so much then you would listen to me! You never used to be so
reckless!
Victor stood up and before leaving the room, he glanced down and said, I wont
waste time on idle talk. If we wait any longer, the Logans will surely kill Laurie if
they see that were not reacting in any way. So, we need to formulate some sort of
plan or something and then he strode out of the room.
Rachel was once again alone in the yellowing light of the room, slouching on the
bed.
Slowly, she put her head in her hands and just sat there, not knowing what to do,
how to act, what to sayshe just sat there and blocked the world out of her mind,
hearing nothing, seeing only the darkness of the inside of her hands
And for an instant, it felt good, it felt comforting, but only for an instant.
And in that instant, she didnt hear the bedroom window creak open.
She was too overwhelmed by the calming serenity she had put herself in, to
realise that someone was in the room with her now, and that it wasnt a
Cromweller.
But, when Rachel realised there was someone in the room, she was too frightened
to do anything that might provoke them, and so she kept still in that position,
with her head in her hands.
Only when the person took large, silent steps towards her, did Rachel decide to
make a move.
In a swift motion, she heaved her body on top of the bed and rolled across it, to
the side of the bed that was closest to the door. She screamed as loud as she
could, jumped up and ran to the door.
But it was too late and a hand gripped her leg firmly and she toppled to the floor,
her face slamming hard onto the marble tile. She immediately tasted blood as the
person forced her onto his broad shoulder and rushed to the window.
Then, all Rachel saw was blackness.
When Rachel regained consciousness, she was too afraid to open her eyes, so
instead, with eyes firmly shut, she listened.

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She was lying on the backseat of a car. The roaring car engine and the sound of
tyres driving over gravel on the road was proof of that.
She could hear her kidnapper talking to someone he was on the phone.
Shes at the backseat. Yes, I know. Ill take her to the basement immediately,
maam, he said obediently with a gruff voice.
Then, she heard the beep of the cell phone to indicate the call was over. The
person on the other line had put the phone down on his face.
Rachel had an inkling of what was going on. If her guesses were right, this man
was Xavier, the Logan familys butler, (and personal human killing and torturing
weapon) who was responsible for capturing Laurie and killing Lulu Richards.
And he was taking Rachel straight to the Logans.
Rachel was surprisingly calm. She was certain that at least Victor heard her
screaming, and that his mother would come to save her.
But Rachel wasnt so sure anymore. Mrs Cromweller was so distraught about the
thought of losing her sonwould that distract her? Would she have the strength
to save Rachel from the clutches of this madman?
Just breath, Rachel told her herself.
The thought of dying washed through her like a powerful acid, and her faade of
serenity suddenly dispersed.
The car made a sharp turn to the left and Rachels eyes flew open.
Luckily, Xavier didnt notice but Rachel was able to catch a good glance at his
face.
She remembered Victor telling her that Xavier was born with a face defect. The
part of his face that she could see was hideously scared and mutilated. It was a
scary face and Rachel quickly closed her eyes again, trying to find comfort in the
darkness of the insides of her eyelids.
I know youre awake, bitch.
Rachel froze in shock and felt his large hand extend past the front seat, reach her
pyjama top and hastily grope her breast.
Rachel bit his hand. It was on impulse and she wished she had bitten harder,
because Xavier pulled his hand from her teeth and slapped her hard with the back
of his hand.
Rachel cried out in pain. The earlier face-fall on the marble tiles and now the hard
slap made her feel nothing but pain. Ice-hot pain that made her eyes water.

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Chapter Fifteen
When Janine heard Rachels spine tingling scream she was in the home
library, going through pages and pages of books that might help them defeat the
Logans without the help of the Witch-Children.
She quickly dropped what she was reading and rushed upstairs to the guest
bedroom. But it was too late.
The first thing she saw was Victor swearing headedly. He was looking down at
the blood on the marble tiles, and he was red with anger.
Mom, I shouldnt have left her! I shouldnt have! I was too late! That motherfucking bastard!
Victor, listen. It was bound to happen. Its okay. We know where she is. They
want us to fight. We will fight, Janine said, surprised by the calmness in her
voice.
Then lets go, Victor declared. He straightened his back and took firm strides to
the door.
Darling, Im going to summon Tavahna.
He spun around. Why? he asked.
Im going to withdraw from her help.
Victors olive-skinned face turned a nasty shade of red. You test me?
Janine moved towards him, refusing to cower from her sons rare temper. She
was the Witch after all and she would use a spell to put him in his place if she had
to.
I will not allow you kill yourself for the sake of a girl.
He shook his head violently. This isnt just for Rachel! Its my life! You dont
live it! You dont live what I live! There was a sudden desperation in his voice.
What is so bad that you feel the only way deal with it is to die, Vic? Janine
asked gently.
Frustrated, Victor whispered, Please. I need to do this.
Janine couldnt help it. She hugged him. She hugged him tight and said
soothingly, Deep down, you know that what youre saying isnt true. You dont
want to die, do you, my son?
Victor took a deep breath and Janine released him and looked his dark, honey
eyes. Victor shook his head.
Janine hugged him even tighter. Her son! Her boy! This familiar stranger was her
little boy again. He was helpless and lost and confused and she would do
whatever she could within her power to fix this. She would fix whatever he was
going through after they had defeated the Logans.
Almost as if he read her mind, Victor let go of her and muttered, What are we
going to do now?
Good question. What were they going to do now? Without the help of the WitchChildren, Janine would never be able to kill three Witches and a Wizard.
Okay, Victor. First, Im going to summon Tavahna and tell her that we dont
need her help anymore. Then, were going to retreat to the home-library and find
something, anything in the magic books that might help us. Thats all I can think
of right now.
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Victor sighed. He was reluctant about his mothers feeble plan.

Just as he was about to say something, his father barged in.
Charles was wearing nothing but a tiny hand towel around his waist. He was
dripping wet and breathing heavily.
Charles looked at them in confusion and then saw Rachels blood on the floor.
What did I miss? he asked, out of breath.
Rachel looked around. She was in a dark, musky room that smelled of sweat and
blood.
She had waited patiently and nervously as Xavier drove up the narrow driveway
to the huge, brick faced Logan mansion. He had parked at the back of the house
and blindfolded her, before picking her up as if she was a feather and brought her
here.
Rachel guessed this was the basement. Xavier had said so in the car when he was
on the phone and when she was blindfolded, she felt him walk down somewhere.
So, either way, she was below the ground.
Xavier hadnt even bothered to tie her hands or legs. He didnt really care. Rachel
was too weak and hurt to move. The door was locked, anyway.
Rachel was slumped against a hard, cold cement wall in a corner. Across from
her was a body lying on the floor. Who was she? Was she dead? Rachel only
knew it was a girl because of her thick, blond hair. The girls back was facing
Rachel.
As she was observing the girl, a shadow moved.
Rachel looked around frantically, not sure where the movement came from. And
then she saw it about a meter away from her.
Rachels heart began pounding in her chest. She wanted to throw up.
Hello? she saidher voice barely a whisper.
Another voice that was equally as nervous as Rachels voice said, Hi.
Rachel sighed in relief. The person in the shadows let out a breath they were
holding for a long time.
Then, a beautiful black girl emerged from the shadows. She extended a hand.
Rachel shook it and smiled.
The girl wore tight fitted black jeans, a green tank top and a thick, woolly jacket.
She sat right next to Rachel and said in a light, happy voice, Im Phoebie Price.
Nice to meet you, Im Rachel Worthington.
The girl examined Rachel up and down. Youre stunning! she beamed after she
was done with her inspection.
Rachel laughed unexpectedly. Lately, she was surrounded by morose and heavy
emotions. But this girl was like a breath of fresh air. She had thick, braided hair
that hung loose around her round-shaped face. Her eyes were large and a dark
chocolate colour. Her lips were cherry red and plump and her nose was long,
with a flat tip.
Thank you. Youre absolutely gorgeous yourself, Rachel responded, still
smiling broadly.
Thank you very much, Phoebie said. Mind you, your face is bruised and
bleeding, though.
I know, I know, I kind of put up a fight.
You go girl! That Xavier is a monster! He should rot in hell, along with those
wretched Logans!
You know them? How did you end up here? Rachel asked.

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Phoebie bit her lip. Youre human.

Rachel nodded and asked what Phoebie. Dont worry; Im clued up about all the
magical stuff, she assured her.
Im a Changer.
Wow, thats so cool.
And I ended up here because of my stupid brother! she said, through gritted
teeth.
What happened?
Well, my brother is a friend of Augusts childs father. When David fled, they all
blamed my brother, Tucker for it. They said that Tucker persuaded David to run
away when he found out he was the father of Augusts child.
Is it true?
Of course not, David was scared shitless when he found out. He wanted nothing
to do with the Logans or his child, so he ran. Tucker actually tried to stop him.
And so did I, but David changed into a wolf before our eyes and ran away.
Thats horrible!
I know. August is such a sweetie pie. I dont know how she copes with that
family of hers.
I met August once. She didnt seem as intimidating as Willow. Rachel said,
remembering the prettier, less freckled and a little older version of Willow.
August was heavily pregnant at the time.
Willow is an evil, black-hearted Witch. Excuse the pun.
Rachel sniggered.
Phoebie smiled and carried on, So then Tucker got scared shitless too, when he
found out the Logans were after him, and he ran off. I was the only one who
stayed in the clan andwellhere I am now, I guess.
Thats brave of you.
Thanks, but Im like that, I suppose. I dont take shit. Phoebie declared.
Who is that? Rachel pointed to the blond girl on lying on the floor. She felt as
though she knew that blond head. But she was groggy and couldnt think straight.
When August secretly came down here to keep me company, she told me her
name was Lauren or something.
Rachel groaned in frustration and felt like an idiot. Laurie!
Help me up? Rachel asked.
Sure. Phoebie got up; held Rachels hand pushed her up.
When Rachel stabilised herself, she slowly walked to Lauries body and knelt
down.
Has she been like this the whole time? Rachel asked, looking at her bruised
face.
Phoebie said, She comes around every now and then. We spoke a bit. She asked
where she was but I never caught her name. Shes extremely weak. If it wasnt for
her shallow breathing, I would have thought she was dead. Do you know her?
Rachel nodded. Shes my friend.
Im sorry, Phoebie whispered.
Its not your fault.
Rachel tried lightly patting Lauries cheeks. Laurie! Wake up, come on!
After a minute, Lauries blue eyes fluttered open. She was gasping for air.
Laurie, its me, Rachel. Im here.
After Laurie had adjusted, she noticed Rachel and cried. Rachel gave her a big
hug and cried with her, tooout of joy.

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Rae? What are you doing here? Did that monster catch you, too?
Rachel sniffled and gazed into her friends endless blue eyes. That man? Yes. He
caught me too. His face is absolutely hideous, right?
Laurie sniffled. I honestly thought he was a monster. She looked around again
and said, Im thirsty.
Rachel turned to Phoebie. Anything we can do?
Phoebie pointed to far corner. Theres a tap there.
Right, Laurie can you stand up?
I can try.
With all her strength and support from Rachel, Laurie managed to stagger to the
tap and quench her thirst. The water tasted sweet and refreshing and it
immediately made her feel better.
A few minutes later, Laurie, Rachel and Phoebie huddled together against the
cement wall in the corner where Rachel was originally, and talked.
First, Rachel had no choice but to tell Laurie everything.
Not only did Laurie deserve to know the truth, but she also had suffered
tremendously in the hands of the Logan family. Telling Laurie about everything
gave Rachel a huge sense of relief. She felt light and happy as the heavy burden of
secrets fell off her chest.
And Laurie had reacted to the magical world surprisingly well. At first she was
freaked out about it, which was only natural, but Rachel assured her that the
magical world was new to her too. Phoebie even changed into a cute, furry kitten
to prove Rachel wasnt lying. Things suddenly made sense then, as Laurie put the
pieces together. She even played with the kitten for a while, before Phoebie
changed back into her human form.
By telling Laurie everything, Phoebie also learned about why and how Rachel
was in the position she was in, which was only fair because Phoebie had told her
story, too.
So, does this mean that Victors mother is on her way now? Laurie asked,
hopeful.
Rachel nodded. The thing is, a part of me doesnt want her to come become she
has no choice but to call on the Witch-Children, and they want Victors body as a
reward. Theyre cannibals.
Laurie was startled and she gasped. What? Rachel, I dont know what to say
That is a bit of a mess. The Witch-Children are bad news. But I promise, if we
get out of here, Ill help fight the Logans, Phoebie said, smiling earnestly.
Rachel smiled back. Thank you. Do you guys realise though, that they could just
come down here and kill us? Im getting kind of worried.
Phoebie shook her head. As evil as they are, the Logans wont kill us. From
what you told us earlier, Rachel, they just want to catch bait so that Janine
Cromweller and her family bust in and try to rescue you. The Logans are looking
for an excuse to fight. I dont think theyll kill us.
They wont kill you too? Laurie whispered.
Ive been in here for a month. They couldve killed me a long time ago. Im not
worried.
There was a moment of silence as the three girls pondered on there safety. As
much as they wanted to be sure their lives werent in danger, there was still an air
of uncertainty rippling around them.
What day is it? Laurie asked suddenly, trying purposely to change the subject.

85

Good question. Were kind of like, clueless in this shit-hole. Phoebie said.
Rachel laughed. Tonight is Wednesday night. She glanced at her Armani wrist
watch. The glass face was scratched but she could still make out the time. And
its half past midnight.
Nice, Ive been here since Sunday. Oh no, what about school, and my mom and
dad? They must be going crazy. I can just imagine the headlines on the news.
School is now officially on mid-break, Laurie. And yeah, Ive seen one headline
on the news. It was on Monday afternoon, after school.
Laurie sighed.
Wait a minute, why are you guys on vacation now? Phoebie asked.
We go to Margo Lee Academy. Its a private school and so it tries to be all
independent and whatnot, hence the messed up vacation dates, Laurie
explained.
I see youre one of those kids.
Whats that suppose to mean? Rachel asked.
Rich, spoilt, socialitesChicagos elite, Phoebie explained.
Rachel grinned. Do you want us to show off? Cause if you want us to show off
we can show off, alright? We learned from the best, didnt we, Laurie?
Laurie smiled, Thats right. We can turn from this to rich-bitchy in an instant,
Changer!
Phoebie looked at the black-haired white girl, then at the blond-haired white girl
and burst out laughing. You-guys-are-crazy! she managed to say through gasps
from her laughter fit.
Rachel and Laurie grinned at each other. They were both thinking about Claire
Richards.
The happy serenity among the three of them suddenly crashed as the door to the
room unlocked and creaked open.

86

Chapter Sixteen
Janine knew after fifteen minutes in the home library, that the idea was
completely ridiculous.
Prior to the fifteen minutes, she had performed the Summoning Ritual and told
Tavahna that her clans services were no longer needed.
To put it lightly, Tavahna was pissed off.
She glared at Janine with hatred and pure frustration, before swirling on the spot
and disappearing into thin air.
The moment she was gone, Janine was beyond relieved.
Her son was safe!
But there was something definitely wrong with Victor. He had issues. And once
this whole Logan family mess was over, she was going to help him. She was
going to help him in any way possible.
Now, however, all hopes of finding anything in the magic books were fading
away.
There was nothing in the books that could help them. All the books confirmed
what Janine already knew; that all magical families had to accept the Bonding
Ritual if they were presented with it.
The fact that the Cromwellers declined, allowed the Logans to wreck havoc. In
a way, they were blackmailing the Cromwellers.
If you try and stop us causing trouble in this town, we will tell on you for declining the
Bonding Ritual, Janine thoughther head ablaze with anguish and stress.
She groaned and shut the book she was skimming through with a heavy thud.
The sudden noise made Victor, who was sitting opposite her around the antique
library desk, jump with a start.
Mom, this is a waste of time.
I know! she snapped.
Just then, Charles walked in.
Darling, I think I have a way of saving Rachel and LaurieAnd defeating the
Logans, he beamed.
Janine got up and asked, How?
She didnt want to get her hopes up. What was her husband on about?
He took a firm, warm grasp of her hand and led her out of the library, Victor right
behind her.
He stopped abruptly by the narrow entrance way to the house.
Someones come to visit us, and he came at just the perfect time, Charles said
and moved aside so that Janine could see who the visitor was.
Janine just stared at the face of their visitor for a second, not knowing what to do.
Dynasty! she finally exclaimed and literally ran up and gave him a long, hard
hug.
Dynasty Zyphorn was thrilled to see her, too. He had missed Janines floral
smelling skin and her beautiful dark, thick hair.
Janine broke from the hug and stepped back, taking a good look at her friend,
whom she hadnt seen in over five years.

87

It was a huge surprise for him to be here, Dynasty was sort of like a nomad, if you
will. He hated staying in one place for too long.
Examining him, Janine discovered that he hadnt aged a bit. He was an
Eternalyte after all!
Dynasty still had the same bald head and athletic body.
He had a very prominent, crooked nose that managed to suite his thin face with
his hard set, square jaw. His eyes were a stunning grey colour; the mesmerising
kind. And he was very tall. He stood a head taller than Charles.
What are you doing here? Janine asked.
He shrugged. I sensed you needed my help, he answered in his manly, gruff
voice.
Im glad youre here! Janine said and gave him another hug. We do need your
help.
Victor wasnt glad of Dynastys arrival. He moved closer to look at the tall man,
and scowled.
What a jerk! Victor thought.
Victor really disliked Dynasty.
Dynasty caught his eye and said, Theres the big guy! Come give your uncle a
hug. Youve grown up a ton.
Youre not my fucking uncle.
Victors animosity stemmed from something he had seen when Dynasty visited
last, five years ago. It was that one sight that had made him frustrated when he
thought of Dynasty Zyphorn. He remembered it like it was yesterdayHis
mother in a tight, lip-locked embrace with the Eternalyte. Victor was only twelve
when he saw the image of them kissingbut it was enough to grow a deep hatred
towards Dynasty and doubt his mothers loyalty to the family. Victor had told his
dad about what he had seen, and Janine had confirmed it. He remembered how
she apologised over and over againand how, eventually, Charles had accepted
her apology. Soon, things were back to normal.
And now the fucker was backVictor hoped that he would leave soon, as he was
prone to do.
Reluctantly, Victor shook Dynastys hand. No way in hell was he going to hug
the bastard.
Honey, we are such idiots! Dynasty! We could have contacted Dynasty for
help! Charles said.
Janine went to her husband and linked her arm in his. Yes. How could we have
forgotten? Her voice was surprisingly cold now. But, it seems he sensed that we
needed help.
How could I have forgotten to put my guard up!? Janine thought furiously, cursing
herself for hugging Dynasty twice and with so much passion.
She looked over at her son and he smirked. She ignored him.
Charles already filled me in on your little dilemma.
Janine rolled her eyes. I wouldnt call it a little dilemma. Its a matter of life and
death. And too many innocent humans have already died.
Dynasty nodded in a serious manner. Ill do anything to help. A few Witches
are no match for an Eternalyte.
Janine sighed in relief. Youll help?
Yes.
Why? Victor suddenly askedhis anger starting to bubble.
Dynasty narrowed his eyes at the teenager in front of him. Excuse me?

88

Why the hell would you want to help us? Surely there must be something you
want? Or someone, perhaps?
Charles raised his voice. Thats enough! Go to your room!
Slowly, Victor turned to face his father. Nice dad.
Do you want to save Rachel? Janine asked him.
Of course, I just,
Then cut the crap and go to your room! she whispered urgently.
Victor stormed down the passageway, up the stairs, and banged the door shut
when he entered his room.
Sorry about that, Janine said gently.
Dynasty shrugged. Teenagers are teenagers. Im guessing Rachel is the human
girl they have entrapped?
Charles seemed distracted for a second as he stared at the stairs Victor had
climbed. He quickly blinked and replied, Yes, thats correct.
Okay, so we need to come up with a plan of action. This needs to be done
quickly and severely. We need to ambush them without warning and we need to
make sure were not seen doing it, Dynasty said matter-of-factly.
Janine agreed. So, were gonna kill them?
The idea of living without the threat of the Logan family sounded like joy.
Yes. It must be done. From what I can tell, the fact that you declined their
Bonding Ritual, they treated that as a free pass to kill innocent humans at an
alarming rate. Youre stuck in conflict, Janine. If you bring this to the Kings
attention, he will punish both families, since you didnt accept the Ritual in the
first place. Therefore, they need to be gone.
Janine knew all thisthe fact that Dynasty spoke it with vigour and acidly only
placed her decision in a firmer position.
Right, she said without a hint of doubt, Lets kill them, shall we?

89

Chapter Seventeen
Later on in the evening, Victor was frustratingly drumming his fingers on the
study desk in his room when Janine lightly tapped on his door and stepped inside.
What was that, Vic? she said.
He looked up. What? he asked.
She sighed sadly and sat on the edge of his bed. We need to talk about
thisabout Dynasty.
He replied sardonically, Great timing, right?
She flashed him an impatient look. Weve come up with a plan, and soon,
Dynasty and I are going to attack their house.
Soon, as in when, tomorrow? he asked.
Tonight, she said, suddenly appearing excited.
He stopped drumming his fingers on the desk and gave his mother a meaningful
stare.
Eventually, he said, Thats great, actually. Its such short notice that they wont
even suspect it.
She nodded in agreement but quickly added, Im sure theyll be prepared for an
attack, but theyll still be surprised by the timing. I bet they think we needed more
time to come up with an efficient plan. And its true, if it was me alone, then wed
still be stuck in the library trying to come up with a good plan. But with Dynasty
here, everything changes.
Oh yeah, Im sure it does, he said coldly, snorting.
Janine folded her arms. Victor, I came in here to talk to you about himabout
him and me.
I dont want to hear it.
She pressed on. Ive known Dynasty forever. Before I met your dad, he and I
were lovers, its true. But Dynasty led a different life, the life of someone whos
always on the run. I wanted to settle downWhen I met Charles; I was ready for
a future with him. Charles was everything I looked for in a manand eventually
the love I had for Dynasty faded away. Obviously we kept in touch still, and we
had a special bondWe still do
What kind of bond? Victor asked, sensing that he already knew the answer.
Janines eyes looked glassy as she thought of the past.
We came very close to being bonded when we were lovers all those years ago. In
fact, the ceremony went underway, but was cut short when his mother,
Cypressinah, declined at the last second. Obviously the moment she objected to
it, everything changed.
The next morning, Dynasty was goneand Cypressinah never told me why she
objected.
And that was when you met Dad? Victor asked.
Janine nodded. Yes, after that I began working and met your father. Like I said,
Dynasty was always on the run, but we kept in touch. When two magicians come
very, very close to being bondedthey share a connection one cannot describe.
Sometimes, I get really sad, or really happy for no apparent reason, and then I
90

realise that Dynasty must be having these feelings, wherever in the world he
might be
So he must have felt your stress about the Logans and he came to help out?
Yesand as for what you saw five years ago, when we were kissingIt was a
mistake. Please, Victor, you and your father are my family. I love you guys
unconditionally. Your father and I resolved things after Dynasty and I kissed. I
realise now that things didnt really get resolved with you. Please, if you have
anything to say, anything you have to get off your chest
You still have feelings for him, Victor said.
It wasnt a question.
It was a fact.
Janine looked away. She didnt know what to say.
Victor made it easier for her. I dont think it matters, whatever feelings you may
have for him.
She sighed in relief. I am dedicated to this family the whole way through. And I
will never do anything to jeopardise that again.
He slid alongside his mother and put an arm around her. Mom, kick some ass
tonight.
Dianne walked smoothly into the basement.
The three girls sitting against the wall lookedhappy.
What?
She stopped when she reached them and looked down into their eyes. Their
happiness faded instantaneously.
Theretheres the fear in their eyes, she thought joyously as she smiled and relished
in the human emotions slowly caressing her magical bodyFeeding her veins
like a growing fire.
You, she said, pointing at the Changer.
The dark skinned girl looked up. Phoebie Price, the sister of that scoundrel who
chased Augusts babies father awayshe wouldnt be needed anymore.
Yes? the girl asked, seemingly confident.
Dianne suppressed a laugh. She could easily use the human snap the girls neck in
two if she so pleased. Dianne was strong enough for that. But, it didnt seem
logical to waste her powers on this petty thing.
When the pitiable Janine Cromweller arrives to fight us, you are going to help us
defeat them. Not that we need your help, but we could use you, and besides, I
think youll prefer that proposition than the other option we have for you.
Whats the other option? Phoebie asked.
Death, of course, Dianne said matter-of-factly, shrugging.
Phoebie looked at the dark haired girlRachel, and suddenly seemed confused.
Are youare you now allies with the whore? Dianne asked Phoebie. She was
maliciously giddy with how she referred to Rachel as the whore. She laughed on
the inside. These human emotions were like drugs. It was crazy how good they
made you feel. The more fear and hatred humans possessed the better for
magicians who devoured these emotions.
Rachel looked up and her nostrils flared. But she didnt say anything.
Wise of you to keep that perfect mouth shut, Dianne whispered.
Just then, she sensed someone approach her from behind. She looked back and
smiled. Peter, her husband returned the smile and looked at their victims. He too
felt their emotions and Dianne could almost see his face glow with power.
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Have you told the Changer about our proposition? he asked.

Dianne nodded. Shes allied with the whore, though.
I havent! Phoebie snapped.
Dianne raised a blonde brow. Get up and come with us. You need to get
cleaned up and prepare for when Janine strikes.
Phoebie got up slowly, flexing her muscles. She was led out of the dark, cold
basement by Dianne and Peter.
They closed the door behind them and Rachel heard the door lock.
She cuddled close to Laurie. The both of them were now scared and worried, but
they didnt say anything. Phoebie had such a cheery nature that they couldnt
help but be happy themselves. When she accepted Diannes offer however
(although it wasnt really like the poor girl had a choice), the friendly, blissful
atmosphere disappeared and Rachel and Laurie were left with nothing but each
others company.
The dark room was now unwelcoming and ominous. They were also beginning to
freezethe room had a chilly draft. So Laurie put an arm around Rachels
shoulder and Rachel rested her head on Lauries chest. They closed their eyes and
waited for somethinganything. And as each second passed, Rachel couldnt
help but feel an inch closer to losing all her hope.
Across the road from the Logan mansion, Dynasty Zyphorn was intently
analyzing the house. He could see lights on in the living room; he could make out
two figures standing in the middle of the room, talking.
Who are they? Janine whispered into his ear.
I cant really tell. Have a look. Maybe youll recognise them, he said and
handed her the binoculars he was using.
She looked through them and said after a few seconds, Thats August and her
sister Willow.
Are the parents in there? Dynasty asked.
Janine shook her head. Wait, I can see them now. They havethey have
someone with them. Its a girla young womana black young womanNow
Dianne and Peter just took the girl upstairs. Willow and August are alone again.
Dynasty grunted in acknowledgment.
Janine looked up from the binoculars and still remained hidden amongst the
bushes next to Dynasty. What do we do? she asked.
Use the energy from the leaves to gain power, he instructed.
Janine handed him the binoculars and held the leaves of the thick bush in front of
her and closed her eyes. She allowed the little magic within her to conjure up
enough strength and extract the natural energy from the leaves. Immediately she
felt her body grow strong and powerful. She was filled with magic now. When
she opened her eyes, she let go of the leaves. They were slightly off colour and
looked a little dry, too.
And now, we attack, Dynasty declared.
Janine smiled a hungry smile that was the reflection of Dynastys smile.
They were ready. This was it. The Logans were going to pay.
To the death, Janine whispered.
To the death, Dynasty agreed.

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Chapter Eighteen
The door bell rang.
Willow glared at her slut of a sister and wished she could just strangle her to
death. Their little argument had resulted in a swear-fest. Had it not been for their
parents who walked into the living room baring the Changer, the two sisters
would have started physically fighting. And Willow would have enjoyed every
minute of it.
Unfortunately, the door bell rang again.
Youre going to get that or what? Willow snapped.
August raised an eyebrow. Im sorry, it must be so hard on you being pregnant
and all.
Willow rolled her eyes.
Bitch, she muttered under her breath as she walked to the front door and
opened it.
Outside stood Janine Cromweller and a man Willow had never seen before. She
was amused at the sight of them.
Janine looked pathetically confident wearing dark pants and a red tank top. She
looked so unusual, compared to her regular attire. The man was big and strong,
but Willow wasnt intimidated.
What do you want? Willow asked rudely.
Give Rachel back, Janine hissed menacingly.
Willow just grinned, Is that all you want?
Janine took a step forward, into the house. Where is your mother?
Im right here, Janine. And I see youve brought a little friend, Dianne said
loudly, projecting her voice across the house as she walked down the staircase.
Peter Logan was beside her. He was a slender, middle aged man with a few
wrinkles stretching across his forehead. His eyes were the same golden colour as
Willows.
Janine chanced a look at Dynasty. His nostrils were flared and his face had
turned a dangerous shade of red.
Dianne casually walked next to Willow and said, Thank you darling, be gone
now.
Willow obediently walked back to the living room.
Tell me; was it really necessary to capture that human in order to have your
attention? Dianne asked, turning her attention to Janine and Dynasty.
Janine stared at her in disgust.
Dianne emulated evil. Her presence, her auraeverything about her was
something otherworldly and dangerous.
Dianne wore dark jeans and a green top. She was the tallest among all of them
except for Dynastywho was a few inches taller than her.
Dianne, this has gone on for too long. We are not afraid to fight you.
Diannes laughter cackled and echoed through the whole house. It was one of
those false, mocking laughs. Just who do you think you are? What made you so
special to decline our offer of a Bonding Ritual? In the entire history of magicians,
not one brave soul has declined a Bonding Ritual, and when the chance came for
our families to unite and live as a powerful, strong unit, you declined!
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Dianne was beside herself.

Janine sighed. Dianne, you just dont get it. What you are doing is wrong! It is
evil! What your family does is not want my family believes in. How could you
have possibly expected us to accept your offer, if we despised your way of life? It
would not have been fair on either family.
Peter spoke in his deep voice. Then why did you befriend us? Why didnt you
give us the cold shoulder if you despised our way of life?
We didnt know how you lived. You never told us. And surely you guys didnt
want us to know. But we found out and we had every right to decline the
Bonding Ritual. Get over it and move on.
The bluntness of Janines words angered Dianne even more. You fucking bitch!
You just think youre so high and mighty!
Anger was also boiling in Janine. You have no right to call me a bitch! We are
adult magicians and we should act as such. If you want to tell the King about us
not accepting your offer, then by all means do so. But I will not stand by the side
lines and watch you kill innocent people.
She has a point, Dianne. Maybe we should let it go, Peter whispered silently to
his wife.
If Janine was surprised by Peters understanding, she didnt show it.
Dianne glared furiously at her husband. Its too late. Theyre here now and we
have to end it. They have to die.
Dynasty said loudly, What makes you think, woman that we will so easily be
defeated?
Dianne smiled at him slyly. Who are you, anyway?
He growled deep from within his chest. The battle-ready emotions taking over,
Dynasty said, Youll soon find out.
And he lunged forward.
Dianne was caught off guard as Dynasty nailed her down hard on the floor with
all his might. Of course he was stronger than her, since he was an Eternalyte, and
Dianne was knocked hard. She found it hard to breathe as he had winded her.
Peter sprang at Janine. She was ready for him and they both started fighting with
their fists. Peter was pretty strong but so was Janine.
With their fists clenched, Janine and Peter began punching each other.
Two magicians brawling was a very different thing compared to a human fight.
As Janine struck Peter in the gut, the sound was excruciating. Peter howled in
agony but regained his posture quickly, punching Janine squarely in the face.
Ah! Janine exclaimed as the pain numbed her cheek.
With a counter-attack, she kicked him in the groin.
That proved a weak spot for Peter as he grabbed hold of his crotch with both
hands, yelling out in pain.
This gave Janine a chance to assess Dynastys situation.
He was still on top of Dianne but was struggling to grab a firm hold on her, as
Dianne was flailing around relentlessly.
Stay still, you bitch! he shouted.
Let me help you with that, Janine said with authority and joined him
Meanwhile, in the living room of the Logan mansion August was also trying her
best to hold Willow in her spot. Her younger sister was beset with rage and
anguish.

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Let go of me, August! I dont want to hurt you or the baby, but I cant just stand
here and listen to them kill our parents! Please! Willow struggled against her
grip. August was older than her and she was slightly stronger.
Listen to me, August whispered hastily, Mom told you to stay here, so just
stay here. If they die, then let it be. This life was their choice. You can change.
Willow looked into her eyes with understanding, but she still shook her head.
We all chose to live this way. It wasnt just them.
We can change, August replied with sincerity.
Tears welled up in Willows brown eyesher hair a mess. Please, she begged,
Let me go. Her voice faltered.
August didnt know what to do. That man Janine brought with her isnt a
Wizard. I think hes an Eternalyte. He could kill both of us if you went out
there.
But hes already seen me! He knows Im in here. Just let me go.
Willow was no longer struggling under her sisters grip.
She was waiting for August to stand aside and allow her to fight
Phoebie was upstairs washing her face in the bathroom when she heard shouts
and commotion downstairs. She dried her face and took a deep breath. What was
she going to do? If Dianne and her messed up family wanted her to fight on their
side, then she would be part of the bad team, but if she chose to fight against them
and they won, then she would be killed.
Still, even if I fought with them and we won, I doubt theyd keep me alive anyway, she
thought.
With her mind made up, Phoebie walked out of the bathroom.
Janine held Diannes throat as Dynasty stabbed her stomach with the hunting
knife he had brought along in his pocket.
AAAAAAH! Dianne roared through gritted teeth.
I want to end her, Janine saidthe bloodlust surging through her body.
Dynasty nodded curtly. He offered her the knife.
Ive got a better idea, Janine said but right from behind, she felt a searing pain
in her back. She slumped down, hardly managing to breathe.
Dynasty sprang up. Willow glared at him with the bloody knife she had stabbed
Janine with.
Come and fight me if you dare, little girl. I will kill you in an instant.
Willow flared her nostrils, for a second resembling the splitting image of her
mother.
Just then, August came into viewher head sticking out from the living room
doorway. What she saw made her tears flow quickerher younger sister
standing, facing her death with courage and hatred.
PLEASE! Dont kill her, shes just misguided! August pleaded with Dynasty.
He just looked at Willow the way a warrior would look at his enemy.
We came here to kill! That is what we will do! Dynasty said.
Then from behind, Peter bellowed, NOT TONIGHT!
Dynasty spun around but was too late. Peter was already on top of him, punching
his face and strangling his neck. Willow joined in and helped her dad defeat the
Eternalyte.
But they couldnt defeat him. Dynasty was just stronger.
He crouched down and then leaped uphis arms deadly, lethal weapons

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Willow and Peter crashed down on the floor with a heavy thud.
August rushed to their sides. Please dont harm her, she beseeched.
Dynasty growled, You are with child.
August nodded.
He screamed out in frustration and struck the wall with his fists. This is all a
mess!
There was moaning from Janine and Dynasty went to her side. I will heal you,
he said.
He moved a hand over her wound and almost instantly, the stab wound started to
close up. Janine took a deep breath in relief. Thank you, she said.
Carefully, she managed to stand up with Dynastys support.
Then, a dark-skinned girl leaped down the stairs. Janine couldnt have a good
look at her because the girl yelled, BEHIND YOU!
Dynasty gyrated and without any hesitation, he decided to kill Peter, who had
stood up and was ready for another fight. Dynasty grabbed a firm grip on Peters
neck and squeezed harder and harder. His Eternalyte strength was beyond Peters
Wizard strength and soon, Peters face was turning a nasty shade of red
Janine watched as August shrieked and rushed to the ebony girl. They held each
other and August was being comforted as she cried, Daddy!
Janine couldnt face it. She looked down at Dianne. She was choking and the
knife was still in her stomach. What was she going to do? Werent she and
Dynasty exactly what the Logans were nowmurderers? No, no she couldnt get
emotional now. She was a magician and it was a magicians instinct to be a
warrior. She had to kill them. Or else, they would just continue their pillage of
death
Dynasty had finished choking Peterwho was dead on the floor with blood
oozing out of his ears, eyes and nose. August had stopped crying. Her head was
nestled on the girls shoulder.
Dynasty had a triumphant look on his face. Janine found it hard to return the
look.
You can finish off the woman, he told her.
Janine nodded, trying hard to find the couragethe willthe motivation
And then she thought of Rachel, being kept as a prisoner for something that she
didnt even do. She was being used as baitas the cheese to catch the rat. How
many people had the Dianne treated like thatand then tossed them aside as if
they were nothing but piles of rubbish? How many more innocent people would
they treat like that if they werent killed?
The thought disgusted Janine. Give me a plant, a flower, anythingI need to
regain some power.
Within a few seconds, Dynasty had brought her a decorative moss plant from the
living room of the house. Janine closed her eyes and held her hands out to the
plant. She could feel its energy seeping into her bodymaking her feel alive and
powerful.
She reached Diannes agonised face and grabbed her wrists. Janine then said,
Goodbye, Dianne, may your soul find nothing but pain and torturethe same
pain and torture that you endured on countless innocent people.
And with that, Janine closed her eyes and threw all her powers into her hands,
and she crushed Diannes wrists easily and flawlessly.

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She looked up to see Diannes face writhing away before her eyes. She glanced at
her wrists. She could make out the blood flowing in Diannes wrists the skin
hadnt broken.
What have you done? the girl behind Dianne asked.
Ive performed one of the many killing spells I know. She is dead now.
Janine also let go of her bruised and weirdly looking wrists.
Diannes body lay limp on the floor.
You performed the Writhing-Ra! the girl exclaimed.
Janine nodded.
August spoke with pain in her voice, Let me go.
Janine looked at Dynasty. She can leave. Clearly she wanted no part in this
and she has a baby on the way.
Dynasty grunted. She will inform the authorities.
Is she does, she will suffer with us, because she has associated with murderers,
and even if we do get out of the royal court alive, shell be sure to meet the same
end as her mother Janine said.
August shook her head. Please just let me go. I want to get out. I want to
escape!
Janine knew August wouldnt tell a soul. Where will you go? she asked gently
The blonde girl looked relieved. Dont worry about what I do. I will be safe to
conceive this baby. All I ask is that you let me go. I will not cause any trouble, I
swear.
I know that, you can leave.
With a sweeping look across the hall, August opened the front door and left.
Just then Dynasty came into view and grabbed the dark-skinned girl by her arm.
The girl tried to squirm her way out of his grasps but he didnt let go.
How can we trust you? he asked.
Im a Changer! I was trapped in their basement. They let me out on condition
that I fought with them against you guys when you came. As you can clearly see,
I did the opposite. I wanted them dead, too!
Dynasty wasnt persuaded. Janine, what do you think?
Janine glanced at the girl. Now that she could see her clearly, she noticed that she
was young. Probably in her early twenties, and her face was worn-out. There
were dark circles under her eyes and her clothes were dirty.
I know Rachel! I was trapped with her. Shes in the basement with Laurie.
Dynasty lifted his chin and glared at the girl. Whats your name?
Phoebie Price, she said immediately.
Phoebie, go get Rachel and Laurie and bring them here now, please, instructed
Janine.
Phoebie did as she was told and within a few minutes, she emerged with the two
human girls.
Thank you for everything! I knew it! I knew youd come! Rachel exclaimed and
ran to give Janine a warm hug. She turned to Dynasty and hugged him too, not
minding much that she didnt know who he was.
Rachel was beyond happy. She just couldnt stop smiling. Laurie had stayed
back, next to Phoebie. She wasnt really sure what to do.
Just then the front door flung open. Janine froze in shock. It was Brianna. What
the hell was she doing here? She hadnt spoken to her daughter, Dianne in years!
And yet here she was wearing loose, rumpled clothing and looking skinny and

97

scary. She observed the room with her light brown eyes and sniffed the air. She
could smell the death.
When she spotted her daughter lying on the floor, dead, she didnt wallow or cry
out in despair. Instead, she just sighed.
Who performed the Writhing-Ra on my daughter? she asked in a husky voice.
Janine stepped forward. I did, Brianna.
Brianna raised her thin white eyebrows. Janine? I wouldnt have expected that
from you.
Yeah, well it had to be done. Dianne killed innocent humans; she constantly
threatened me and my family. The authorities wouldnt have listened. They never
do, anyway. Willow was trying to lure Rachel away from Victorin attempts to
try and get back at us for not accepting the Bonding Ritual. That, along with the
deaths left me no choice but to attack.
Dianne only ever killed Lulu Richards.
Dynasty shook his head, No, I did my research before agreeing to fight, he
shifted his gaze to Janine and continued, Dianne along with the rest of her
family are responsible for the countless disappearances and dead bodies found all
over this town.
Rachel found the courage to say, Willow also killed my chef.
Janine nodded in agreement. My husband also dug around on the internet and
old-news clippings over the years. Even before we rejected the Bonding Ritual,
the Logan family was killing innocent people, draining them of their emotions
and they always used their so called butler Xavier, to kill the humans. What we
did here was called for, Brianna. I hope you can see it the way we do.
Brianna looked around again. Her dead straight, white hair flowing gently from
the breeze that blew in from the open door.
You are right, she finally said. I always discouraged my daughters evil ways,
but to some extent, my love for her blinded me. Willow, my darling
granddaughter, was in pure frustration. She was given a task which sheI must
sayloved. But she was anxious and wanted to get things right. So, she brought
the human girl, Rachel to me, in the hopes that I would be proud of her. In the
hopes that I would show her the pride she never received from her parents. And I
must confess, I was proud of her. I was proud of her courage and determination.
But I knew Rachel would fight back. I knew she would form alliances with you,
Janine and that you would help her fight them off. I justI just didnt know that
you would kill them Brianna spoke with a tired, old voicefull of despair and
agony.
Janine realised that although Brianna wasnt showing itshe was grieving.
A movement from the end of the hallway grabbed everyones attention. Willow
was still alive, but she was now starting to moan in pain. Guh-gr-Grandmashe managed to say in between gasps.
Brianna rushed to her side, her baggy outfit flowing in the breeze. She knelt at her
granddaughters side and began weeping. Oh, Willow. Im here. Im here now.
She repeated on and on, doing her best to soothe Willow.
Rachel whispered, What do we do?
Janine shrugged. Do we save Willow?
They turned to Dynasty. If it was up to meId feed her to vampires! So dont
ask me. Its up to you.
Janine sighed, Do you have a cell phone present, Brianna? She walked over to
her.

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So, we help her Rachel mumbled.

Janine has always been like thatnever wants unnecessary death, Dynasty
said.
Rachel frowned. I think that is the norm.
Youd be surprised...Why would she tell youa human girlabout our world is
what I dont understand? If the King found out
I was dragged into this. I never wanted any part in it. But I fell in love with a guy
whose mother is a Witch, and I was in danger. Im sorry but I think they kind of
had to tell me. Who are you, anyway? Rachel was getting annoyed with this all
high and mighty attitude.
My name is Dynasty. Im an old friend of Janines. Im sorry if I said anything
to upset you. I was curious. Its against our law to tell any human about our
world.
Im Racheland I know about the magical laws. They suck.
Lauries gaze shifted to Rachel. They stared at each other and both thought the
same thingRachel shouldnt have told Laurie about the supernatural world. But
she was just trying to make it easier for Laurie in the basement. And Phoebie
wasnt exactly reluctant herself. Maybe theyd erase Lauries memory or
something.
Janine came to them and said, As it turns out, I dont need to call Charles.
Willow is fine. Shes just a bit disorientated. There is a lot of blood, however, but
I mended her up with a bit of energy I have left. Her arm has a deep cut, though,
that I cant mend. Dynasty, please fix the rest of her wounds up.
Dynasty grunted disapprovingly, That girl should have died with her family.
Annoyed, Janine put her hand on her hip, Listen, Im not going to kill her and
neither are you! You left me to decide and I decidedNow, are you going to
respect my decision or not?
Reluctantly, Dynasty shuffled out of the way and walked to Willow.
Janine found Rachels hand and squeezed it gently. Are you all okay?
Rachel nodded, resting her head on Janines shoulder. Yeah, just tired, and
hungry andyeah, tiredIm glad Laurie is alive and well. They barely fed her!
Hush, its all over now, Janine whispered.
Rachel said, What about Xavier?
The thought hadnt crossed Janines mind. Shit! Xavier! But as she thought about
it, the more she realised that he was actually useless and weak without the
guidance of the Logan family. Where is he now, do you know?
Rachel shook her head. I think he ran awayAnd August?
I let August escape; shes soon to be a mother. She wont do anything funny for
a while, and if she does, well, then, well defeat her, too. And as for Xavier, at the
end of the day, hes a human and humans are weaker than usmuch weaker.
Well defeat him, too.
How can you be so sure?
We won this battle, didnt we?
Rachel nodded, But only because you had that Dynasty guy with you. Wait, the
Witch-Childrenthey arent here. Does that mean you asked them not to help
anymore? Is Victor safe?
Right, well, next time, Dynasty will be here, with us again. Yes, Victor is alive
and well. However, Im beginning to realise that there is something depressing
him
I think youre rightMrs. Cromweller?

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Oh, please Rachelcall me Janine. I think formalities are pointless after all that
weve been through. What is it?
How did you kill Dianne?
Janine smiled wryly, I performed the Writhing-Ra.
Rachel shuddered, That sounds intense.
Its one of the most powerful killing spells a magician can perform. It is rarely
done because they say the Writhing-Ra is worse than anything you could ever
imagine. The spell is performed by grasping the wrists of your victim and
directing all your magic to their wrists. All your power is built up in their wrists
and eventually the victim implodes.
Implodes? Rachel asked.
They sort of explode in their body, Janine explained ominously.
Rachel didnt say anything for a while as she digested this new piece of
information. She wished she never asked the question in the first place.
She stood in silence with Janine and thought of Victor instead of the scary
Writhing-Ra.
She and Janine would sort Victors issues out together, as long as he was
unharmed, and as long as everyone else was unharmed, things would be fine. She
enjoyed the feeling of knowing that the worst was over.

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Chapter Nineteen
The door opened and Rachels face emerged from the outside. Victor let out a
joyous laugh, reached her and gave her a big hug. Rachel couldnt help but feel
happy and content in his arms. He was here. That was all that mattered. His
familiar scent, his gentle touch on the back of her neck as they huggedthat was
all she wanted.
Victor smiled and inhaled her smell. He savoured every scent he could smell on
hera bit of sweat, the rusty-vinegar smell of blood, her beautiful, delicious floral
smelling hairall of it comforted him and made him know that the love of his life
was alive and well.
They broke there embrace and looked at each other. Rachel had a few scratch
marks on her face, and as was hugging her, he had realised there was a wound on
the back of her head, but now the blood had dried up.
But, other then thatand looking terribly tiredRachel was fine.
Youre safe, Rachel said.
Victor nodded. My mom convinced me to stay alive.
She surprised him by snorting and rolling her eyes. Do you realise how dumb it
sounds even when you say it?
Victor shifted his gaze. I had my reasons.
Yes, and youre telling me all about it later.
Victor turned to see thatduring the time he and Rachel were speakinghis
mom, Dynasty, Laurie and a girl he had never seen before had entered the house.
Charles had already rushed to his wifes side, tending to her few injuries, and
Dynasty was using magic to wipe Lauries memory of the recent events.
The new girl approached Rachel and Victor. Hi! she beamed.
Victor was unsure of how to react to her bubbly nature, so he just said
nonchalantly, Hey.
Uh, Victor this is Phoebie, Phoebie this is Victor, Rachel said awkwardly, she
was never good at introductions.
Phoebie smiled. Its nice to meet you. She extended a hand.
Like wise, Victor said and shook her hand.
He noticed how pretty she was. Her penetrating brown eyes simmered with
intensity.
Darling, Charles asked Janine, Have you gotten rid of evidence in the Logan
house of death and damage?
Janine nodded, Brianna came and wanted Willow to survive. Willow wasnt
dead yet but Brianna was honest and remorseful. She was sincere about how
ashamed she was of her daughters choices. She promised to take care of Willow
and make sure she isnt drawn to the darkness. So, Dynasty helped heal Willow
and Brianna took her awayprobably back to her trailer. Anyway, after that we
used magic to put all damaged goods in the house back to their original states and
Dynasty got rid of the bodies on our way here.
When the commotion and re-telling of the nights events subsided, all Rachel felt
was a surge of unbearable exhaustion.
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Phoebie had said goodnight to all of them, changed into a white dove and flew off
into the starless night. Dynasty had compelled Laurie to tell her family that she
needed a break from all the unhappiness of her family and their constant drama
and that she had run away from home. Also, Laurie was compelled to say that
she had stayed over at Rachels house for the duration of her outburst. That way,
Janine had told Victor and Rachel afterward, all mysterious loose-ends would be
cut and the Tweeds would soon forget about their daughters rebellion.
Charles insisted that Dynasty stay at the house for a while, but Dynasty insisted it
was time he went.
I must leave, he said when he returned from dropping Laurie at her house.
Janine looked startled. So quickly? she asked.
Dynasty nodded. We will see each other again, my dear friend.
Janine looked around and looked at him again. You often forget that Im not an
Eternalyte like you, Dynasty. Time has its effects on me
Dynasty smiled. That is why I will visit whenever I canAnd when you need
my help the most.
Emotion welled up in her throat as Janine gave Dynasty a warm hug and said, I
will miss you.
And I you, he replied.
When they broke their hug, Charles gave Dynasty a sturdy handshake and
muttered thanks.
Rachel shook his hand, too and said, Thank you for everything.
Dynasty nodded. You are a brave girl with a big secret. Be sure not to make a
spectacle of yourself. The supernatural realm is not a joke.
Believe me, I found that out the hard way.
Victor gave a quick nod to Dynasty and turned to look away.
Finally, Dynasty glanced at all of them again and departed the house.
After Rachel took a shower in one of the many bathrooms, she found Victor in
the lounge, seated and staring into space. Janine and Charles were upstairs. She
sat beside him and linked her arm into his.
What are you thinking? she asked him.
Victor just shook his head and rested it on her shoulder.
Rachel suddenly got up, feeling guilty for not thinking of her mom.
Where are you going? Victor asked.
My mom, Rachel said briskly, and walked up the narrow staircase.
Macys guest bedroom was at the end of the upstairs hallway. Rachel opened the
door and stepped inside. It smelt of fresh, clean linen and there was a hint of
floral aroma. She glanced at the large potpourri basket on top of the study-desk at
the corner of the room, along with a night-lamp, and table-calendar.
Macy was lying comfortably on the huge, king-sized bed in the middle of the
room. Her body was covered by a golden coloured duvet. The golden shade
vaguely reminded Rachel of her seventeen birthday party. With a pang of
sentiment, she remembered how innocent she was before that party and how she
felt the morning afterperplexed, deceived and used. It was Victor who had
caused her so much emotional pain. It was Victor who said he loved her so
muchso much! but still hurt her. Now, still she was allowing herself to open
up to him again. Why? All because she was now involved in his supernatural life?
Now that she and he had a near-death experience? The facts were still there.

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What he did could never be erased. In her heart, Rachel knewdespite the
intensity of how she felt for himshe deserved better.
She shook all thoughts of him out of her head and focused her attention on her
mother. A smile touched Rachels lips. Macy looked so healthy. Janine had done
a good job with the spell. Tomorrow, she would release the spell and Macy would
wake up, thinking she had taken an extra sleeping pill and had slept through
Monday night to Thursday morning. Well, something along the lines of that.
Rachel knew her mother was too smart, but after asking a series of question,
Macy would quit her curiosity and get on with her life. Macy was good that way.
She was logical and a realist. Now, Macy was still in slumber-land. Her cheeks
had a pink glow and Rachel was relieved to see she looked good. She didnt have
to worry about her mom. Now, all she wanted to do was sleep!
Then, she heard footsteps reaching the top of the staircasetwo pairs of
footsteps. Shame, yeah, we are all dead tired and need some sleep she thought. She
made her way to the door and stopped abruptly. The door was open just a bit and
through the open crack, she could see Janine and Victor heading into the
bathroomthe bathroom?
Puzzled, Rachel lingered in her position a little longer. They had closed the
bathroom door and locked it. The way they had done it was so quick and silent,
that Rachel knew they didnt want her or Charles to know they were in there.
What could they do in a bathroom?
There had to be a logical explanation. Then again, the way her life had taken a
very illogical/ supernatural turn was proof of how anything could be possible.
But still, her curiosity got the better of her and she walked right next to the
bathroom door.
She could hear everything they were saying.
Mom, listen I dont think its important anymore. You dont have to know,
Victor spoke with frustration and desperation.
Vic! Whatever you did, you thought suicide was the best way out! Now, tell me
what is wrong so that I can help you, Rachel heard Janine say, with frustration
to match Victors own.
Please, promise not to tell Rachel or anyone!
Janine sighed. Fine, I promise.
And then Victor said it immediately and clearly. Rachel didnt have to think he
said the wrong thing or that he mumbled. He said it once and that enough.
Claire was pregnant.
Rachel gasped at the same time as Janine.
There was silence from the other end of the door for several seconds. Rachel
wondered whether they figured out she was eavesdropping, but she didnt give a
damn. She would have deserved to hear this anyway. But Victor would have been
too much of a fucking coward to tell her.
Janine broke the silence. She was?
I convinced her to have an abortion. I killed a baby his voice falteredhe
sounded defeated.
Rachels eyes were watering but she wiped the tears away and blinked hard. She
would not cry. She was done crying. She was stronger than that now. And she
was strong enough to fuck respect. She banged on the door hard. I HATE
YOU! Rachel bellowednot caring about anyone, or anything. All she felt,
saw, sensed, smelt, heard was her hatred and anger and shock and fear and
despair and hurt against him. Him! Victor, the fool she thought was the one for

103

her. The idiot she lost her virginity tothe loyal boyfriend who fucked the best
friend. It was like she was living in a soap opera. And to top it all off, she was
getting a headache.
Behind her, Charles hurried up the stairs, pale faced and frantic. What
happened? he asked.
The bathroom door opened. Janine was shocked, so was heVictor.
Janine, Im sorry for shouting like that in your house. I will leave with my
mother once you have released her from the sleeping spell, Rachel said calmly
and slowlynot daring to look at him and lose her nerve.
Janine surprised her by smiling sadly. No, Rachel. Im sorry for his petty and
now, utterly unforgivable and significant actions. Please will you spend the night
here with Macy, before going in the morning? Its the least I can do
for...everything. In the morning, I can take you and Macy home and only then
release the spellit will be less suspicious as appose to her waking up in our
house. Would that be alright, Rachel?
Rachel couldnt help ita tear escaped from her eye. She wiped it away with the
back of her hand. Janine was so heartbreakingly kind to her.
Okay, she said meekly.
Janine looked past her. Darling, there is nothing wrong here. They were just
having a slight argument. Everything is alright, she said smiling serenely at her
husband.
Charles wasnt convinced, but muttered Very well, under his breath and headed
to his and Janines main bedroom at the northern side of the hallway.
Victor opened his mouth to say something, but Rachel didnt give him the chance
as she headed to her guest bedroom and locked the door behind her.

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Chapter Twenty
For a second, she didnt know what to do. The last time she was in this room,
Xavier had captured her. She felt wrong in here the second she entered. And there
was a stench in the room. She couldnt put a finger on it, but the scent was
familiar. It was on the tip of her tonguewhat that stench was. She flicked on the
lights.
She froze and her blood ran cold.
There was a body on the bed. It laid face down, wearing what would have been a
formal outfit had it not been drenched in red. Rachel didnt need to check to see if
it was alive. She knew it was dead. That was why the stench was so familiar. It
was the smell of death. And also, there was another tell-tale sign it was dead
there was blood everywhere.
Xaviers body had been killed by a vampire, according to Janine.
His body had been sucked dry and there was evidence of bite marks on his neck,
inner thighs and arms. It was horrible, but Rachel was too tired, annoyed,
heartbroken and generally pissed off to care. Honestly, if she began caring, she
would die of anxiety, and right now all she wanted to do was sleep. No, instead
she was outside in the hall again, waiting as Janine and Charles inspected the
body and packed it in a way so that they could get rid of it.
If you want to, you could sleep in one of the other guest bedrooms, we all know
how tired you must be. We all are, Victor said.
His voice was gentle, but Rachel knew he was trying to soften her uptrying to
make this new death a reasonable excuse to come close to her. It wouldnt work.
Why are you talking to me? she asked him directly.
He looked away, turning a shade of red.
Janine popped her head out of the room, looking at them. If you could move out
of the way, were trying to get this body out.
Victor and Rachel shuffled to the side as Janine and Charles heaved the body out
of the room. Xaviers body was wrapped in the linen and duvet cover that was
already soaked with his blood.
Rachel sighed. I didnt realise you guys had so many enemies.
Janine scowled. We dont. Magicians and vampires do not associate with each
other. I am very confused about this.
Vampires!? Magicians and vampires? God, what the hell is going on? Rachel
blabbed out, exasperated.
Janine glanced at her and said, Im truly sorry, Rachel. I wish I could erase your
memory of these events, but you are still under threat. Willow is not dead and
who knows what this vampire is after. You need to be prepared for anything, and
having your memory erased of these situations is going to put your safety in
jeopardy.
Before Rachel could say anything else, Janine was already helping to carry the
body downstairs.

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There was silence in the hallway. Rachel was glad Victor was wise enough to
keep that mouth of his shut. And then, she regretted thinking that because he
spoke.
Rae, Im sorry. I need you to forgive me. I feel terrible. Please forgive me.
Rachel closed her eyes and suppressed thoughts of drowning Victor in a deep,
dark ocean, the she stopped short. Thoughts like that werent as funny when you
were surrounded by real murders.
You dont deserve my forgiveness. This is something youre going to have to
deal with yourself. Move on, Victorits time, she said, and was surprised to
hear her voice was strong and clear. She felt right saying it. She just hoped he
caught on with the finality in her statement.
Victor sighed. I understand.
Good. Now leave me the hell alone, Rachel said sternly as she walked into her
mothers guest bedroom and shut the door behind her.
So, I was knocked out for four days? Macy asked her daughter.
Rachel nodded. I didnt know what to do; I just thought maybe you were
strained and stressed and that you needed the rest.
Rachel, I would never take extra sleeping pills! You know that! Macy
exclaimed.
I do? Rachel asked.
I could have died! Do you have any idea how strong my sleeping pills are?
Rachel groaned. She was still tired and moody from the night before. She glanced
at the wall clock. It was one in the afternoon and Rachel had not slept enough.
She managed to get in a feeble three hours of sleep before it was morning at the
Cromweller residence. Janine had dropped Rachel and an unconscious Macy at
their house, removed the spell on Macy and left. Macy woke up in her own bed, a
little dazed and insistent on finding out why she had slept for so long.
Rachel had now told her the sleeping pill story and Macy wasnt convinced, but
now she was starting to let it go.
So, are you fine? Rachel asked a moment later, when her irritation subsided a
little.
Macy gave a sharp nod and walked out of the living room, but not before turning
to her daughter and adding, A caring daughter would have called a doctor. You
literally left me to rot in bed.
Mom, Im sorry!
Mhm, Macy noised and left the room.
Rachel sank into a comfy leather couch her mother had imported from Italy and
closed her eyes.
Then someone walked in the room. She opened her eyes, thinking it would be
Macy to add another comment onto her long list, only to be pleasantly surprised
by who was standing in front of her.
Stella! she beamed and leaped of the couch to give her cousin a tight hug.
When they broke their embrace, Rachel took a step backobserving her favourite
cousin. What are you doing here? My mother didnt say anything
Stella put a finger on her lips and made a shhh noise. She doesnt know Im
here. The guards recognised me as a relative and let me through. Im going to
surprise her now.
Rachel was dumbfounded by the sudden visit from Stella. Why are you here? I
thought you were studying in Paris?

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Stella smirked. She was such an animated girl. Some might have even compared
her to Claire (though Rachel didnt want to think about her). Stella had thick,
wavy hair the colour of beach sandnot really blond, but not really brown or
beigea healthy, sandy-mix of the two. She had the biggest, roundest brown eyes
Rachel had ever seen, a cute button nose and broad, luscious lips. She had an
athletic, toned body and gorgeous curves in all the right places. Rachel
remembered how much mischief they would get up to when Stella would come to
visit during spring break and Christmas.
They used to be inseparable. But for the past year and a half, Stella had been
studying at a famous university in Paris. Why was she back? Rachel shrugged
she wasnt complaining. She would welcome anyone from her family so that she
could take her mind off certain people and events and future events and future
confrontations with those certain peopleOh, boy!
Stella kissed her cheek and squealed as she declared she was going to surprise
Macy. She strutted out the room and down the hall.
Rachel smiled and sank into the comfy sofa again. She fell asleep.

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Chapter Twenty-One
It was two weeks into the Margo-Lee holidays and Rachel was curious as she
stepped inside Le Wouw Caf at the corner of Watson Street and Grange
Avenue. Why would James want to meet up with her, and here, of all places?
Couldnt he just give her a call, or visit her at her house?
He had only called her that morning, to tell her to meet him at the caf at three in
the afternoon. It was five past and she was anxious. What if he somehow found
out about the Logan attack? Or maybe the spell Dynasty had put on Laurie
somehow lifted? Although Rachel knew in her heart that the chances of that
happening were slim, she was still hesitant.
The caf smelled deliciously of cappuccino. The aroma warmed her body as she
looked around. She spotted Jamess blonde, dishevelled hair instantly at the back
corner of the caf. He noticed her and smiled, beckoning for her to join him.
Rachel made her way to him.
She sat down, propped her handbag beside her and smiled. Hi, whats up? she
asked, trying to sound casual, though inside she was a nervous wreck.
James was dressed like a rock star today. He had on a pair of dark, denim jeans, a
black leather jacket over a dark red t-shirt and a pair of black leather boots. His
electric blue eyes sparkled as he looked at Rachel.
Hey, Im glad you made it, he said, grinning devilishly.
Rachel began feeling a little calmer as she asked the waiter to bring two
cappuccinos.
Hows Laurie? she asked.
Shes better. I still cant believe you let her stay with you, and like, you didnt
even tell me.
Rachel smiled ruefully, Sorry. She told me not to! She just needed a break, you
know?
She let out a deep breath. She was so relieved that Lauries spell hadnt lifted.
James shrugged. Still, Im her brother.
The cappuccinos arrived and Rachel took a generous sip after blowing a bit on
the surface of the mug.
So, hows life? You enjoying the holidays? she asked, putting down her mug.
James nodded. Are you?
Yeah, I need it.
The look in his eyes changed as James said, I heard about Claire having an
abortion and all
Rachel shifted uncomfortably. Did he have to bring that up?
Rae, I want you to know that Im here for you.
Rachel was caught of guard. Whoa, was James Tweed actually being nice for a
change?
She smirked. Gee, well thanks there, bud.
He then took her hand and held it firmly within his own. She felt the warmth of
his palms. She hadnt expected it, but at his touch, a shiver rippled through her
spine.
Im being serious, Rae. What he did
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Rachel extracted her hand from his grasp. Hes your friend. Why dont you go
support him? she asked, defensively.
Frustrated, James whispered, Coz I dont believe that what he did was right!
Any of it! You of all peopleYou deserve so much better, Rae!
Rachel was surprised by the force of Jamess voice. His eyebrows were set in a
stern, worried position.
Why do you care? she asked defiantly.
Instead of answering verbally, James reached out and grabbed Rachels hand
again. Confused, Rachel stared back. The seconds passed as James gazed at her
with intensity his bright eyes boring into hers. There was sadness
overwhelming him and Rachel could see it in eyes. He was
thinkingconcentrating hard on whether to say something or not.
James, what is this? she asked, looking at there joined hands.
James reluctantly let go. He looked distracted, but smiled meekly and took a sip
from his cup.
Rachel chuckled, trying to break the ice. Nice one, buddy! You almost had me
fooled.
Oblivious to his hurt, she spoke about the weather and the new shows happening
at the theatre. She told him about her mothers new assistant and what her New
Years resolutions were going to be and what a pain her cousin, Stella was.
She spoke about life and James answered at the right time with the right words.
When it was time to leave, they got up after paying the bill and walked out of the
caf.
Okay, my ride is over there, Rachel said, pointing to a grey Rolls Royce near
them.
This was nice, James said, giving her a warm hug. He couldnt help but inhale
her scent.
She smelled wonderful and he longed for more when she broke their embrace and
said, It was nice.
Rachel got into the back of the Rolls Royce and said to Fred, the driver, Lets go
home, shall we?
As the car started, Rachel looked back. She could make out Jamess body along
the sidewalk. He was looking at her car. Why wasnt he going home? As Fred
turned the corner, James was still looking at the car.
Baffled, Rachel sat back. A tiny little thought occurred. What if that stunt he
pulled earlier was real? What if he had really meant it when he took her hand in
his? What if?
Nah! Rachel shook the thought. This was James, after all. She couldnt see him
wanting her. And even if he did want her, it was probably just a once off thing
and no ways was that happening.
The thought quickly dispersed when Rachels Blackberry vibrated in her Yves
Saint Laurent handbag.
She took out her cell phone and read a text message she had received from Stella.

HEY COUSIN,
LETS THROW A PARTY OF NOTE TOMMOROW NIGHT, SHALL WE?
A BIT OF FUN IS DUE, DONT YOU THINK?

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MWAH! LET ME KNOW. ILL BE HOME IN TEN.

Everything would soon be normal again. She pondered over a few new
developments in her life
Claire had had an abortion.
Victor persuaded her to do it.
Rachel had experienced the world of the supernatural and had almost gotten
killedbut she had done all she had to help rescue Laurie.
But Laurie wouldnt remember any of it.
Willow was still alive and could pose as a possible threat in the future.
Stella was back. That on its own made Rachel twingeher cousin was known to
be a bit on the wild/party side of things, but they always had a blast when they
werent annoying each other. No, no. She decided Stella being back was a good
thing.
She hoped so.
Oh, and there was a killer vampire on the loose, who thought it was fun to drain a
body and leave it as a gift on top of her bed. She hadnt even realised it until
nowa vampire! A vampire!? So, there were magicians and vampires? What else
was there in the realm of the unknown?
On second thought, Rachel didnt want to find out. She had suffered enough
from just one supernatural species. She was pretty certain she was going to have
to deal with the stupid killer vamp, eventually. Though, it had been two weeks
now and so far, there were no signs of anything unusual
Besides, Rachel had other things on her mind now. She had to decide what to
wear. After all, she was going to be hosting a party.
*

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