WHISPERS

OF

DEATH

Monday, October 19, 2015

7:32 AM

It was another dreary day in Gloomville, Montana. Dark

clouds crept across the sky as a cold autumn breeze

whistled through the leafless trees surrounding Maple High

School. As students slowly filtered into the building, a

young man with messy brown hair stood at the front gates.

His name was Evan Hawthorne, a sixteen-year-old junior

in a gray hooded sweatshirt and a pair of black jeans. As

he made his way to the building, tension mounted within him

as dead leaves blew across the ground. It was his first day

at the school, as his family had moved from Long Beach,

California only recently. As he approached the front

entrance, a thin, friendly-looking girl stopped in front of

him.

Well, now. Youre a new face, she said. Evan looked

over to her.

Yeah. We just moved here last week, he replied.

Thought so, she said, soon looking to a slip of

paper in his hand. Looking for your first class, huh?

Lets take a look, she said, suddenly sidling up next to

him. Evan froze, taken aback as the girl peered down at his

class itinerary from mere inches away. He blinked, heart

suddenly pounding in his chest as he looked to the

attractive girl before him, the scent of her perfume

filling the air as the breeze again picked up, causing the

girl to hold her hair from her eyes.

Oh my gosh! she said, suddenly looking back to him.

We have the same first period class! What are the odds?

she asked with a smile.

Wow. Must be a small school, Evan replied.

Yeah. Theres only about two hundred or so students.

Im Claire, by the way, she said.

Evan, he replied.

Well, want me to show you the way? You dont want to

be late on your first day, do you? Claire asked, soon

escorting Evan into the building.

Claire Fairweather was a pretty young junior of

average height wearing a stylish red fleece pullover and a

black miniskirt that matched her thigh high stockings and

black loafers. She had light brown hair and green eyes and

wore a red hairband across her head. As the two walked

through the halls, Claire and a girl dressed in all black

bumped into each other upon turning a corner.

Ugh. Excuse you? Claire said. The girl said nothing

in reply, shooting her a brief glance before continuing on

her way. Damn creep. Just look at how shes dressed,

Claire said venomously, arriving at a classroom soon after.

She then turned around, smiling at Evan. Here we are, she

said.

Thanks, Claire, he replied.

Dont mention it. We dont do assigned seats here, so

just take a seat anywhere, Claire said before heading to

her usual seat near a group of friends. Evan looked around,

heading to an empty desk near the back of the room. After

several moments, the bell rang, and the teacher began

taking roll. As he neared the end of the list, one final

student entered the class, heading to the back and taking

an empty desk next to Evan.

Late again, Miss Rozenthal? Youre making this quite

a habit as of late, the teacher said.

Sorry, the girl replied in a voice no higher than a

whisper.

Thats detention for you again, young lady, the

teacher remarked. The girl said nothing, however, sulking

back into her chair as the room looked over to her.

She was a peculiar looking girl with straight black

hair down to her lower back wearing a white ladies trench

coat and matching beanie with tight black pants that

matched her gloves and heeled leather boots. She was

unusually lanky for a girl, standing almost as high as Evan

who stood five feet ten inches tall, and she hid nearly

half her face beneath a black silk scarf around her neck.

The rest of the class went by with little ado, and an

hour later, the class let out. As the students gathered

their things, Evan looked over to the girl who had come in

late, suddenly noticing a bruise peeking out from beneath

her scarf. She looked over to him, hastily readjusting her

scarf before hurrying off. Evan paused, a sick feeling

suddenly washing over him as he began wondering how she

could have gotten such an injury. As he headed toward the

door, Claire came over to him.

Well, there goes your first class at Maple High. What

do think of our little school so far? she asked.

Oh, its fine. It doesnt seem too different from my

last school, he replied, eyeing the girl with the bruise

as she left the room. Claire looked back.

Oh, dont mind her. Thats just Willow. She comes in

late a lot and never talks to anyone. Shes sort of the

class weirdo, Claire said.

I see..., Evan replied, still concerned about the

wound on her neck.

So, what class do you have next? Claire asked. Evan

looked to his paper.

It says... Mister Wright?

Oh, him? I have that douche for my fourth class. I

dont have time to take you there, but I can give you

directions, she said, telling Evan the way there.

Thanks again, Claire. Youve been a big help, he

said. Claire paused, shyly looking away moments later.

...Its okay. Well, gotta go. Catch ya later, she

said, heading off to her next class.

Evan did the same, following Claires directions

before finding his second period class. It passed with

little fanfare, and soon, third period rolled around. This

time, Evan was on his own finding it, and accordingly,

entered it just before the late bell rang. He quickly

looked around, spotting an empty desk at the side of the

room. He headed over to it, taking a seat as the teacher

entered the room and closed the door. As class began, Evan

looked to his left, noticing a familiar looking girl

sitting next to him, soon recognizing her as the same

student Claire had bumped into earlier.

As the teacher took roll, Evan learned that her name

was Natalie Lockett, a curious yet attractive young woman

in distinctly Gothic attire, wearing a dress that was black

from top to bottom and covered almost her entire body. Her

hair was the same color, tied into a high ponytail that

elegantly hung down all around her head, covering her left

eye entirely. The teacher then stood up.

Alright, everyone. Take out your history books and

turn to page forty-two, he said, suddenly realizing Evan

didnt have one yet. Oh, dear. Im afraid we havent got

any extras, either. Im afraid youll just have to share

with someone. Natalie, would you mind pushing your desks

together and sharing with our new student until we can find

him a book of his own? the teacher asked. Natalie remained

silent, looking over to Evan as Evan did the same to her.

Sorry, he said quietly, slowly pushing his desk next

to hers. Natalie remained silent, opening her book and

sliding it half onto Evans desk. The two sat in awkward

silence as the lesson began, occasionally stealing glances

at one another.

Today, well be discussing the Goths of ancient

Germany, the teacher said. Evan paused, slightly looking

over to Natalie. She looked back at him.

Dont, she said. Evan smiled, also detecting a faint

look of amusement on Natalies face as the class continued

on, concluding an hour later.

Thanks, Natalie. Sorry you were forced to share your

book with me, Evan said, moving his desk back.

Its alright. It wasnt your fault, she replied.

Evan then looked to the itinerary.

Next is lunch, is it? I dont even know where to go,

Evan said with embarrassment. Natalie looked over to him.

I..., she said hesitantly. I can show you the way,

she concluded shyly.

Oh, dont trouble yourself, Natalie. Youve helped me

enough for one day, Evan replied.

Its no trouble. Im headed that way, anyway, she

said.

Yeah? Well alright then, if you really dont mind,

Evan said, the two leaving the room soon after. They made

their way down the hallways, soon approaching a large glass

door.

This is the cafeteria, Natalie said, entering along

with Evan.

Wow. So small, he remarked.

Its a small school. And besides, hardly anyone ever

takes lunch in here, anyway. Most choose to loiter around

the courtyard or surrounding halls during the lunch break,

Natalie explained.

I see, Evan replied, moving down the short line

assembled before getting a sandwich and a bag of chips.

Natalie didnt take a tray, choosing instead to merely grab

an apple. Thats all youre getting? Evan asked.

Yes. This is all I ever get, she replied. Evan

slightly frowned, looking her over. Natalie was fairly

thin, so it came as little surprise to him that this was

all she was eating. The two then moved to a table, sitting

across from each other.

Oh... sorry. Did you want to be alone? Evan asked.

Natalie quietly looked up, shaking her head soon after.

Evan smiled. Im glad to hear it. The truth is, I dont

really know anyone here yet. Id probably have to have

lunch by myself if it wasnt for you, he said.

Youre new here?

Yeah. We just moved here from California last week.

Really? What made you move to Gloomville of all

places?

Good question. It was my sisters idea. Shes sort of

the head of the household, nowadays. To be honest, shes

not my real sister. I was adopted by the Hawthornes when I

was five. My mother has been in a bad state since father

divorced her, and sis thought moving to the countryside

would be good for her, Evan explained.

I see, Natalie replied.

What about you, Natalie? Have you always lived in

this town? Evan asked. Natalie suddenly fell silent,

slowly looking off to the side. Oh. Sorry... I dont mean

to pry, Evan said warily. Natalie looked back to him,

shaking her head.

No. Its alright. You told me about yourself, after

all. I guess its only right that I tell you a bit about

me. But..., she said, again hesitating.

Its alright. We can talk about something else if you

want, Evan said. Natalie frowned.

Im sorry. Its just... hard for me to discuss my

past, she said softly.

No need to apologize, Evan said. The two spent the

rest of the lunch break with each other, exchanging idle

pleasantries until it was time for fourth period. When the

bell rang, they left the cafeteria.

Thanks for lunch today, Natalie. Maybe we can do it

again, sometime? Evan said.

Sure, Natalie replied, the two parting ways soon

after.

Evan found his way to his fourth and fifth period

classes, both of which passed normally. When the sixth and

final class of the day came around, he entered the

classroom, surprised to see someone familiar as he entered.

Evan! We meet again. Looks like we have the same

first and last period classes, Claire said with a smile.

Oh, hey again, Claire. Yeah, looks that way, he

replied, taking a seat at the front row next to her. As the

room slowly filled with students, a tall, rough-looking

student entered the room.

Oh, no, Claire said under her breath.

What is it? Evan asked.

That guy... I was hoping he would be absent again, as

usual. Thats Todd, probably the schools worst bully. Even

the seniors are scared of him, Claire whispered. Evan

turned to him, watching as Todd scowled at the room from

the head of the class, suddenly noticing Evan.

...Who the hell are you? he asked.

Evan, he replied.

You new or somethin?

Yeah.

Thought so. Id have remembered a fuck face like

you, Todd said snidely. Evan remained silent, Claire

watching tensely from nearby as Todd sneered before making

his way to the desk at the far end of the room, the seat

furthest away from the teachers desk.

Soon after, the bell rang, and class started up. The

hour passed slowly as Todd continually disturbed and

interrupted the class before finally being written up and

sent to the front office by the teacher. As the final bell

sounded, the students gathered their belongings and

prepared to leave as Claire looked over to Evan.

Dont let him get to you. He does that to everyone.

You were right not to rise to his taunts, she said.

Its alright. Every school has at least one of his

kind, I suppose, Evan replied.

I wouldnt be so sure. Todd is a little different

from your average bully. Last year, he sent someone to the

hospital after getting into a fight with him. Theres even

rumors that he raped a girl, Claire explained grimly.

No way...! Evan said in surprise.

Seriously. Id steer clear of that guy if I were

you, she replied, heading out the door along with Evan.

Will do. Thanks for all your help today, Claire,

Evan said. Claire smiled.

No problem. Welcome to Maple High, Evan. Hope ya like

it! Claire said, waving goodbye before heading off with

two of her nearby friends.

Evan made his way through the hustle and bustle of the

halls, heading to the gates and leaving the school. His

house was within walking distance, so he didnt take the

bus or a car. As he traipsed through the grass next to the

road and made his way home, he reflected on the events of

the day, and on everyone he had met over the past several

hours.

Claire seemed like a very nice person, though when

Evan looked into her eyes, he somehow sensed a faint air of

sadness about her, almost as if she was doing her best to

suppress something deep inside herself. He was certainly

grateful for all the help she had given him, however, as he

would have certainly been lost on his first day without her

help.

Natalie was cold on the outside, but seemed like a

warm and friendly girl once she got to know someone. Evan

recalled their conversation over lunch, and found himself

intrigued by both her mysterious appearance as well as her

past which she seemed reluctant to talk about.

Todd, on the other hand, seemed like trouble. He

reminded Evan of another bully he had at his previous

school, though that one wasnt nearly as threatening as

Todd was, nor were the rumors surrounding him.

As Evan continued his trek home, the person he found

himself thinking about the most, however, was Willow. The

bruise on her neck troubled him to no end, and seemed to

indicate domestic abuse of some sort.

As Evan worriedly mulled over what could have happened

to her, he arrived at his house, a small, three bedroom

house tucked away in the woods. He approached the front

door, noticing his sisters bright red convertible parked

out front before entering the house. He looked around,

noticing the house was completely dark as he headed into

the kitchen, opening the fridge and taking out a bottle of

water. As he turned around, he jumped.

Yo, little bro, Evans sister Madilyn said casually.

Damn! Would you stop doing that...? Evan said in

annoyance.

Doing what?

Sneaking up on people.

Oh. Did I...? Sorry. Its not my fault youre a spaz,

though, Madilyn replied.

Madilyn Hawthorne was a sleek, slender beauty, twenty-

two years old and with wavy blond hair and blue eyes. She

wore a pair of tight fitting white pants and a matching

white belly shirt with a light, open lavender coat over it

and a pair of brown sandals. As Evan stood in the kitchen,

Madilyn looked to him.

So, how was your first day? she asked.

...Fine, he replied warily. Madilyn paused, tilting

her head at him.

Come now, Evan. Youre holding something back on me.

Tell big sis what it is, she said with a smirk. Evan

turned to her, hesitating before starting to speak.

...Well. During my first period class, I noticed this

girl next to me with a sizable bruise on her neck. I

couldnt tell for sure, but... it looked like domestic

violence of some sort, he explained worriedly.

I see. Sounds like her old man likes using her as his

personal punching bag, she replied.

Madilyn! Evan said.

Sorry, but its probably true. A girl that age with

marks like that is almost certainly taking a beating from

someone, most likely her father, she explained. She then

curiously looked to Evan. Why are you so interested,

anyway? Do you... like this girl? she asked with a grin.

What!? No! I mean... I guess shes kind of cute,

but... I dont even know her! Evan replied clumsily.

Madilyn shrugged.

Well, if youre that worried about her, you could

always just ask her yourself. I doubt shed tell you the

truth about it, though. Shed likely say something like she

ran into a car door or something. Shes unlikely to open up

to a stranger about something so personal, but if you got

to know her a bit, she may be willing to confide in you,

Madilyn said. As Evan paused in thought, Madilyn walked

past him, grabbing her keys from the kitchen counter.

Youre going out? he asked.

Yes. I may be gone for a few days. Theres some

leftover lasagna in there that should last you until I get

back. Also, its unlikely that shell leave her room, but

if mom should come out here for anything... keep an eye on

her, okay? Madilyn asked, leaving the room moments later.

Evan hesitantly followed her to the door.

...Where are you going? Evan asked warily. Madilyn

froze, looking to the floor before turning to him with

disdain.

Evan. How many times have I told you not to ask me

that? In case youve forgotten, dad left us, mom is a

basket case, and weve got bills to pay around here. Never

you mind where Im going, she said, leaving the house soon

after. Evan approached the window, watching as his sister

got in her car and drove off.

As her car vanished from sight, that old familiar

feeling of worry came over Evan as he stared silently out

the window. It was now over a year since their father had

walked out on them, leaving their mother for a woman half

her age. This left their mother a wreck and unable to work,

much less leave the house. Accordingly, Madilyn became the

sole breadwinner of the house, and was saddled with looking

after both their mother and Evan himself, something which

racked him with guilt. He wished he could do something to

help her out, and had offered on numerous occasions to drop

out of school and get a job. Madilyn refused, however,

insisting that he finish his education.

At first it was hard, as the family received no

financial support from their father. After awhile, though,

Madilyn seemed to make more and more money, eventually

saving up enough to not only buy herself a car, but to

purchase an entire house in a single payment. This begged

the question that had nagged at Evan for almost a year.

How was she making so much money...?

It was something he wanted to know from Madilyn more than

anything else, yet each time he would ask, she would become

defensive and quickly change the subject. He as well as

their mother were both concerned about what she was doing,

and both were at a loss at to what it could be. At the time

of the divorce, Madilyn was studying to become a

psychologist, but was soon forced to drop out in order to

support the family. She was highly athletic, and enjoyed

activities such as running and tennis, but neither of those

could possibly pay her the amount she seemed to be getting.

At the end of the day, Evan couldnt help but worry that

his sister was into something shady, and he cringed to

think what it could be. Madilyn was indeed a beautiful

young blond, and he worried that she could possibly be

engaged in dancing or even prostitution. Evan knew Madilyn

as a person of integrity, however, and doubted that either

of those were the case.

If not that, though, then what? What could it possibly

be that was earning her so much cash? It was a question

that continued to haunt Evan day after day. He sighed,

walking away from the window and back to his room.

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

7:00 AM

Evan awoke to the sound of his digital alarm clock going

off, worried thoughts of both his sister and Willow soon

filling his mind as he switched off the alarm and prepared

to leave. He headed out the front door, arriving at the

schools gates twenty minutes later.

He entered his first period class, noticing Claire

busy talking with her friends as he made his way to his

seat. As class began, the teacher called roll, and Evan was

soon disturbed to find that Willow was absent. He recalled

her coming in late the previous day, and thought the same

thing might happen again, but alas, she never appeared, and

the entire class went by with no sign of Willow.

Second period rolled around, and crept by painfully

slowly as Evan started to worry for Willows well being.

When third period came around, Evan entered the class, half

lost in thought as he took a seat next to Natalie.

You okay? she asked. Evan suddenly looked up,

turning to her soon after.

Oh. Hey, Natalie. Yeah, Im fine. I just... didnt

get much sleep last night, he replied, forcing half a

smile. Natalie frowned, looking to him with concern as the

bell rang and class began.

Once the hour passed, the two headed to the cafeteria,

Evan still looking worried as the two got some food and

took a seat at the same table they did the day before.

Are you sure youre alright? You seem really out of

it today, Natalie said. Evan remained silent, looking

around before looking over to Natalie.

...Can you keep a secret? he asked quietly. Natalie

perked up, looking to him with interest.

Sure, she said.

...Well, the other day, there was this girl in my

first period class sitting next to me with a bruise on her

neck. Yesterday, she came in late, and today, she was

absent entirely. Im not certain, but I think she may be

taking abuse from someone, Evan explained.

Oh, my. Who is she? Natalie asked curiously. Evan

hesitated, again looking around.

You promise this stays between us? he asked.

Of course, she replied.

...Her name is Willow, Evan said quietly. Natalie

suddenly sat back.

Oh. Her? she asked.

You know her?

Not really. Shes in my fourth period class, though,

Natalie said. Why are you so concerned about her, anyway?

she asked. Evan paused, slowly shaking his head.

My sister asked the same question. Shes the only

person Ive told this to besides you, and the truth is, I

really dont know. Its just... ever since seeing her

injury, I cant help but worry about her. Maybe shes

suffering in silence, you know? Evan said. Natalie lightly

frowned.

Yeah. But what could we possibly do? she asked.

Well, I was thinking of asking her about it, but

figured it would be rude seeing as how I dont even know

her, he replied. Natalie remained silent, warily looking

to Evan, wondering why he was so worried about this strange

girl. The remainder of the lunch break ended, and the two

again parted ways, Evan heading to his fourth period class

while Natalie headed to hers in the opposite direction.

As she arrived, she looked around the room, suddenly

surprised to see Willow sitting at her usual seat in the

corner of the room despite Evan telling her she had been

absent from first period. Natalie took a seat at her usual

desk at the other end of the room, eyeing Willow from afar

as the room slowly filled with students. Natalie blinked,

tapping her fingers atop the surface of her desk as an idea

suddenly came to her. Though she felt bad for Willows

injury, she had little interest in her, otherwise. She knew

that Evan seemed concerned about her, however, and figured

she should try and help him out by finding out more about

her. She paused, taking a deep breath before getting up,

heading over to an empty desk next to Willow before taking

a seat.

Excuse me, Natalie said. Willow paused, looking to

her left.

...Yes? she asked softly.

Im sorry to bother you, but I couldnt help but

admire that scarf of yours. As you can tell, I really like

to wear black, but Ive never tried wearing a scarf,

before. Would you mind if I tried yours on real quick?

Natalie asked, stealthily inspecting Willows neck from

afar as Willow looked to her in slight surprise. She

blinked, soon slipping off her scarf and handing it to

Natalie. She took it from her, trying in vain to spot any

sign of bruising on her neck as she faked interest in the

scarf shed just been handed.

...Silk, huh? Nice. Maybe I should get a scarf like

this, she said, soon handing it back.

Im sure it would look good on you, Willow said

quietly, taking back her scarf and putting on. Natalie

paused, suddenly feeling guilty about what she was doing.

Willow seemed like a nice person, and here Natalie was,

prodding her like a science experiment in an attempt to

find a wound on her neck. Still, she couldnt help but feel

ever more curious the more she talked to her.

I thought you were absent, today, Natalie said.

I overslept, Willow replied.

I see. I used to do that a lot, myself, especially

after soccer practice or something exhausting like that. Do

you play any sports? Natalie asked, fabricating a story in

an attempt to see if she got hurt playing sports.

No, Willow replied.

I dont blame you. I really hated soccer, especially

when my parents would show up to cheer me on from the

sidelines. It was so embarrassing. Do you have parents like

that, too? Natalie asked, telling another lie in an

attempt to determine what kind of parents she had, and if

they could potentially be abusing her. Willow looked

sideways, eyeing her before again turning back.

...No, she replied once more. By now, Natalie could

detect the suspicion in Willows demeanor at all of her odd

questions. Natalie sighed, ready to give up. Just then, she

noticed a pencil sitting at the corner of her desk. She

paused, soon purposely knocking it over and onto the floor

next to Willow.

Oh, dear. Sorry about that. Do you mind getting that

for me...? Natalie asked. Willow hesitated, looking to the

pencil before reaching for it. As she bent over to pick it

up, Natalie froze, at last noticing the nasty looking

bruise on the side of Willows neck. She frowned, sadly

looking to her as Willow handed the pencil back to her.

...Thanks, Natalie said somberly, heading back to

her seat just before the bell rang. She wanted to ask her

more, but by now, felt guilty for barraging her with

questions under false pretenses, especially after catching

a glimpse of her wound.

The rest of the day went by normally, and as the final

bell rang, Evan left his sixth period class, heading for

the exit soon after. As he approached the front gates, two

men came over to him.

Excuse me, one of them said. Evan turned around.

Yes? he asked.

Im Detective Briggs, and this is Detective Hopkins.

Wed like to ask you a few questions, Briggs said,

flashing his badge. He was a tall, lanky man with broad

shoulders and chiseled features. He had short brown hair

and wore a long, dark gray trench coat and a pair of black

slacks.

About what? Evan asked cautiously. Hopkins stepped

forward.

Do you recognize this young woman? he asked, holding

out a picture of a vacuous looking girl with curly brunette

hair.

No. Im new here, Evan replied. Hopkins raised a

brow.

Is that so? he asked, producing a notepad from his

jacket. Hopkins was a short, stocky man, bald and with

thick, circular, black rimmed glasses and a dry smile. He

wore a black leather police jacket and a pair of brown

trousers, scribbling something away at his notepad as Evan

stood tensely from nearby.

Relax, son. Youre not in any trouble. We just want

to ask you a few questions regarding the disappearance of

this young woman. Her name was Tiffany Irvine, and she was

last seen leaving this school on Friday, October 9, exactly

eleven days ago. Do you or anyone you know have any idea as

to where she may have gone? Briggs asked. Evan stood in

surprise, shaking his head soon after.

I dont know. Ive never seen her before, he said.

I see. Well, if you think of anything, let us know,

Briggs said, taking his leave along with Hopkins.

As the two detectives began questioning another

student, Evan left, surprised to learn that someone had

recently gone missing from the school. After about twenty

minutes, he arrived at his house, finding it eerily quiet

with the absence of his sister and his mother still locked

away in her room. He headed to the couch, flipping on the

TV and searching for something to watch, finally settling

on a local news program.

despite terrorism not being suspected as a cause of

the senators mysterious death. In other news, a local

family is still holding out hope that their missing

daughter will return home alive. Sixteen-year-old Tiffany

Irvine was last seen leaving the grounds of Maple High

School shortly after classes let out on Friday, October 9.

The teenager was known for staying out late and partying

until early morning hours, but the family says that shed

never been gone this long before, and her mother pleaded

for her to come home, claiming that neither she nor her

stepfather were angry with her, the news anchor said. Evan

folded his arms, listening with interest at the report of

the missing girl hed earlier been told about by the pair

of detectives. Though he felt concern for her, in truth, he

was still more worried about his sister and Willow. The

fact that Willow was absent from first period left a sick

feeling in the pit of his stomach, and the rest of the

night crept by slowly as worried thoughts of both her and

Madilyn circled around Evans mind.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

11:23 AM

Evan slowly opened his eyes, noticing the TV was still on

as he realized he had fallen asleep on the couch. As he

looked around, he froze, noticing his mother sitting on the

sofa nearby.

Mom! he said in surprise, slowly sitting up. Evans

mother sat in silence, blankly staring at the TV in her

dirty bathrobe, her short blond hair disheveled.

...Wheres your sister? she asked in a scraggly

voice.

I dont know. She took off two days ago and didnt

say where she was going, Evan replied. After a moments

pause, his mother stood up, shuffling back to her room

before snapping the door shut. Evan sat in bewilderment.

Since the divorce, shed sunk into a deep depression, and

it was rare for her to even leave her room, much less talk

to anyone. Evan then looked to a nearby clock, eyes

widening as he realized what time it was. He shot to his

feet, hurrying to his room and getting ready before racing

out of the house, walking as fast as he could to school.

Upon arrival, he noticed the courtyard and surrounding

corridors filled with the hustle and bustle of the lunch

break. He sighed, annoyed that hed overslept so much as he

slowly traipsed through the gates and across the courtyard.

As he looked around, he suddenly spotted a familiar girl

sitting by herself at an old picnic table near some trees

at the edge of the school grounds. It was Willow, arms and

legs folded as she sat facing away from the table, staring

stoically ahead at the overcast alpine landscape.

Evan paused, realizing that this might be an

opportunity to get to know her, and maybe ask her about her

wound. He turned to her, making his way across the

courtyard and over to the picnic table Willow was sitting

on. As he approached, Willow sat in silence, face half

hidden beneath her scarf as she stared blankly ahead at the

scenery.

Excuse me... Willow? Evan said. Willows eyes

suddenly met his as her body remained motionless. I... Im

sorry to bother you, but... we have the same first period

class. My name is Evan. Do you mind if I sit down? he

asked. Willow sat in silence, staring him down before

turning her eyes away, lightly shaking her head moments

later. Thanks, Evan said with relief, taking a seat next

to her. He then looked around, noticing no signs of food

anywhere near her. You didnt get lunch? he asked.

...I dont have any money, she said softly.

That makes two of us, then, Evan replied, recalling

how hed forgotten to take any money with him in his haste

to leave the house. As he looked over to Willow, a cold

breeze blew by, causing her hair to blow to the side. Evan

froze, suddenly finding himself captivated by just how

beautiful she was, her cold, dark blue eyes staring off

into the distance as her thin, pale silhouette cascaded

with the unsettling scenery of the overcast horizon behind

her. As Evan was lost in the sight of her, she suddenly

looked over to him, causing him to quickly snap out of his

trance and look away. He blinked, shyly looking to the side

before starting to speak.

Willow

Youre new here, arent you? she asked in a blunt

tone of voice, suddenly interrupting Evan.

Yeah. We just moved here about a week ago, he

replied.

I see. Im sorry to hear that, she said. Evan

paused, looking to her in confusion.

...Huh? Why? he asked. Willow paused, slowly turning

to Evan before looking him square in the eyes.

Dont you know? This is where people come to die,

she said coldly.

Evan froze, a chill suddenly running down his spine as he

stared back at Willow in bewilderment, thunder rolling in

from the distance.

...What? What do you mean? he asked warily. Willow

again paused, looking back to the horizon moments later.

This town is death. Its like a pool of stagnant

water that gets dirtier and more corrupt with each passing

day. Nothing good ever happens here, and once youve

arrived,

theres no hope for you, she explained, standing up as the

bell sounded off in the distance soon after. As she headed

back toward the school, Evan blinked, quickly standing up.

Whered you get that bruise? he asked suddenly.

Willow froze in place, slowly turning back to him before

eyeing him suspiciously.

...What bruise? she asked, pushing up her scarf with

her shoulders.

The one on your neck. I noticed it the other day when

you came in late. What happened, Willow? he asked with

concern. Willow remained silent, looking away moments

later.

...I hit a cabinet, she said, again walking off.

Thats not the truth, is it? Evan asked. Willow

cringed, again looking back at him.

What do you care? Who the hell are you, anyway?

Asking such things out of nowhere!? she asked in

annoyance. As Willow glared at Evan, he frowned, his

reaction catching her off guard as he slowly walked over to

her.

Willow... Im sorry to pry. Its just, I... Im

worried about you, thats all, Evan said shyly. Willow

suddenly froze, weakly staring at him as a cold breeze

whipped by. She blinked, slowly looking away.

Evan... please. Dont get involved, she said softly,

voice trembling.

But

Please! Willow said, tears forming in her eyes as

she stared back at Evan. Please... I beg of you, she

concluded, swiftly composing herself before turning around

and heading back to the school. Evan looked on in silence,

a pained look on his face as he watched her disappear from

sight.

The rest of the day went by slowly as Evan replayed

his encounter with Willow again and again in his mind. It

was just as Madilyn had predicted: Willow was in full

denial about how shed gotten hurt, claiming that shed

merely hit a cabinet. Evan knew full well that wasnt the

case, however. He wanted to help her, to save her from

whoever it was that was physically abusing her, but Willow

had made it abundantly clear that she didnt want his

interference. As the final bell rang, Evan left the school

and headed home, idling away the rest of the night.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

7:45 AM

Evan arrived at school, noticing the halls starting to fill

up with autumn decorations promoting the upcoming fall

dance that was to take place at the school in a weeks

time. He entered his first period class, taking a seat as

the room slowly filled with students. Just before the late

bell sounded, Willow entered the room, taking her usual

seat next to Evan. The two looked to each other, briefly

meeting eyes before shyly looking away.

...Hey, Willow, Evan said shyly.

...Hi, she replied quietly.

Im really sorry about yesterday. I had no right

poking my nose where it doesnt belong, he said. Willow

paused, lightly frowning and looking away.

...No. Its alright. I appreciate your concern, but

theres no need to worry. I just get a bit clumsy,

sometimes, she replied, still holding fast to the cabinet

story. Evan frowned.

Well, if you ever want someone to talk to, Im here

for you, Willow. Anything you need, just ask, he said,

trying his best to help her out. Willow shyly turned to

him, blinking in surprise before again turning away,

slightly blushing as class soon started up.

First and second periods both went by, and Evan soon

entered his third period class, taking his usual seat as

Natalie entered the room soon after, taking her usual seat

next to him.

Hey, Natalie, Evan said.

Hey. Where were you yesterday? Natalie asked.

Oh, I passed out on the couch the previous night and

overslept big time. I guess I was more tired than I had

realized, he replied in embarrassment.

Oh..., Natalie replied, sounding slightly dejected

as the teacher entered the room and class began. After the

bell rang, Evan and Natalie again headed to the cafeteria,

getting some food before taking a seat at their usual table

as Evan looked out the nearby glass window at the decorated

hallways outside.

Looks like the dance is fast approaching, he said.

Yeah. I dont really care, though. I dont dance,

she replied.

I hear you. Enlightened feet have got no rhythm,

dont you think? he asked. Natalie half smiled.

Totally, she said.

By the way, did you hear about the girl who went

missing recently? Evan asked.

Oh, Tiffany? Yeah. Good riddance, I say, Natalie

replied.

Why?

Well, it may sound cold to speak ill of someone whos

gone missing, but to be honest, I never really liked her.

She was a bit of a bully, not to mention a snob, she

explained.

I see. Now that you mention it, a pair of detectives

showed me a picture of her when they questioned me about

her disappearance as I was leaving school the other day,

and she did sort of give off that vibe, Evan replied.

Natalie suddenly paused, looking over to him in surprise.

...Detectives? she asked warily.

Yeah. I was a bit surprised, myself. They came over

to me as I was leaving, and asked me if Id ever seen her

before. I told them no, and they seemed vaguely interested

in the fact that I was new here before going off to

question someone else, he said. Natalie slowly cringed,

turning her eyes to the side.

...Damn cops. Dont those maggots have anything

better to do...? she asked with quiet disdain. Evan

paused, taken aback by her sudden change in demeanor.

...It was no big deal. I guess theyre just trying to

get to the bottom of Tiffanys disappearance. She has been

gone for eleven days, after all, Evan remarked. Natalie

looked back at him.

I know. Its just... I hate government types, thats

all, she replied.

How come? Evan asked. Natalie slowly shook her head.

Forget it, she replied. Evan looked to her with

confusion, once more intrigued by her curious behavior.

As he watched her sitting before him, Natalie remained

silent, staring down at her untouched apple, gently

twirling it around with one hand while staring down at it,

apparently lost in thought. As Evan looked on at her, he

suddenly found himself lost in her eyes. They were like two

deep pools of midnight surrounded by a thin layer of dark

purple mascara, her pupils as black as the clothes she wore

as her bangs half covered her left eye. As Evan sat in awed

silence, he soon realized something. She was cute. In fact,

she was very cute. If it werent for the Gothic attire she

seemed so keen on covering herself with, shed likely be

the cutest girl in school. Or maybe her attire was part of

the reason why Evan found her so attractive. As Natalie

caught eyes with him, he blinked, quickly looking away

moments later.

The rest of the lunch break went by, as did the rest

of the day, and soon, the final bell rang. Evan gathered

his things and left the building, leaving the school

grounds soon after. As he walked along the side of the

road, a fancy, black town car pulled up next to him,

rolling the window down.

Hey, you! Claire said from the drivers seat.

Claire! Evan said in surprise.

Dont tell me you walk to and from school every day?

she said.

I do. My house isnt far from here, he replied.

Aww, you poor thing. You shouldnt have to do that.

Hop in! she said chipperly. Evan paused, soon getting into

the spacious vehicle.

Nice car, he said, looking around the interior.

Thanks. Its all mine, too! Claire said with pride.

So, wheres your house, anyway? she asked.

Just up the road a bit, he explained, giving her

directions as she drove him to his house. Upon arrival,

Claire looked it over.

Aww. Such a cute little house, she said with a

smile.

Yeah, I think so, too. Thanks for the ride, Claire,

he said.

No prob. I pass by this way on the way to school, by

the way. If youre out here at around half past seven, I

can pick you up if ya like, she said.

You dont have to do that, Claire, Evan replied.

Oh, come on! Its really no trouble, she said.

...Well, if youre really sure its alright, then I

gladly take you up on your offer, Evan said.

Great! See ya tomorrow, then. Bye, Evan! she said,

the two waving goodbye as Claire drove off. Evan went into

the house, sitting on the couch and turning on the TV to

the same channel hed left it on the previous day, noticing

a news anchor in the middle of interviewing a conspiracy

theorist over a recent story.

...Im telling you, the assassination of Senator

Everett was not the doing of a foreign agency, but rather,

the work of a secretive network of assassins working from

within the United States! the theorist explained.

Mister Higgins, with due respect, youre theories

have often been criticized as outlandish and based on no

scientific evidence. What proof do you have to support your

claims? the anchor asked.

The proof is right in front of you! Open your eyes,

Jim! Everett, just before his death, was in the middle of

investigating this shady group of contract killers when

shortly thereafter, he turns up dead in a hotel room of an

alleged heart attack. Coincidence? I think not! the

theorist declared. Evan rolled his eyes, changing the

channel several times before eventually shutting the TV off

and heading to his room.