She Came At Dawn

By Katja Michael

What would you do if your whole settled life would be turned around in one single moment, by one single person?

College-student Melissa has it all: wealthy parents, a handsome boyfriend, good friends and the safety of already being fully settled in the middle of her twenties. But when Melissa gets to know her friend Tom's new girlfriend, it changes everything. Laila, a stunning beauty with emerald eyes, seems to be able to show her that there are many other ways of living than the one seemingly hewn in stone for Melissa. The girls fall head over heels in love – but sometimes it's hard to follow one's heart when you have everything to lose.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Katja Michael
• Release date: Apr 11, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301394913

Katja Michael

For Katja the love for the written word arose - as so often in life - only at a second glance. During her school years she didn't enjoy the prescribed literature until several poetry projects built up a serious interest in writing. While studying English literature, she fell more and more prey to the more complex pieces. She devoured not only books, but began writing more complex pieces than poetry. To this day, her passion for words is unbroken and brought numerous poems, short stories and book projects with them. If the decision to write in German or English arises, she usually leaves it up to the first sentence. After work or on the weekends Katja spends her time writing or outdoors with her camera. Her favorite motifs include not only power lines but also all kinds of lost places. Her novel She Came at Dawn in the genre Lesbian Romance was published in 2013. Numerous new book projects in German and English, as well as a short story anthology, are already in progress. Later this year, her new novel (Genre Dystopian Young Adult LGBT) will be published. Her favorite authors include classical writers such as Ernest Hemingway, and Virginia Woolf, but also modern novelists like Suzanne Collins or JK Rowling.

Book preview

She Came At Dawn

by

Katja Michael

Smashwords Edition

©2012 by Katja Michael

Editor: Annika Janßen

Cover Design: Katja Michael

Smashwords Edition License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then you should return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author’s work.

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CONTENT

CHAPTER 1 – THE NEW GIRL

CHAPTER 2 – INTRIGUED

CHAPTER 3 – VOYAGE

CHAPTER 4 – ROPEWAY

CHAPTER 5 – COMPLETELY INCOMPLETE

CHAPTER 6 – SPIN THE BOTTLE

CHAPTER 7 – BORDERLINE

CHAPTER 8 – STRONGEST WEAKNESS

CHAPTER 9 – COLLIDE

CHAPTER 10 – RHAPSODY

CHAPTER 11 – UNDERTOW

CHAPTER 12 – WHITE LIES

CHAPTER 13 – EXPIRY

CHAPTER 14 – QUIETNESS

CHAPTER 15 – COME CLEAN

CHAPTER 16 – CORONA

"Somehow I found a way to get lost in you." — Three Days Grace

CHAPTER 1 – THE NEW GIRL

All talk fell silent and heads turned. For a split second, music was the only noise remaining in the ballroom of Bringston University. The famous ‘Semester-Out-Party’ was finally there and as always well attended. It was one of the few things that drew the attention of the average college student once vacation had started. Another being the arrival of the three students that seemed to catch the eye of every person in the room.

Geez, I don’t think I’ll ever get used to this, said the boy on the right of the small group. His short jet black hair was neatly formed into spikes that stood out in different directions.

You better get used to it fast, Tom, commented the other dark-haired boy next to him with a smirk on his face.

Come on, Greg. What’s that supposed to mean? Tom’s face went bright red.

The girl, being the third person in the group, turned towards Tom with a questioning look on her face. Oh my, is there something I need to know? Her distinctive British-accent made the words sound sweeter than honey. Deep-brown eyes and silky chestnut hair, complimented her flawless appearance – a breathtaking sight.

Without doubt, she was the reason for the party guests to look over at the group longer than most usually would. The obvious staring of the male students had earned angry glances from their girlfriends. However, those boys had the tables turned on them quickly when Greg, flashed a stunning smile across the room and melted the hearts of the female guests. He was a bit taller than the girl next to him, yet just as good-looking.

He took her hand and briefly kissed her palm. The attention dissipated immediately. One of the girls from a group that was nearby, huffed and then whispered, ‘Of course such gorgeous people would be a couple’. Tom rolled his eyes at the comment. He knew this kind of reaction when it comes to these two far too well. Feeling like the third wheel, he aimlessly looked around. Drunken students were wandering back and forth between the bar and the dance floor. A few still stared at them with incredulous eyes.

Hasn’t Tom told you that he has a girlfriend now, my love? Greg asked.

No, he seems to have kept that from me. The female raised a brow and grinned when she turned to Tom. Shame on you, Tom, she said, giving him a sad look.

Tom brought his hands up in defence and slight panic. I’m sorry, Melissa. Don’t be mad. Greg is only telling you half of the truth, he said, trying to find an excuse before he faced Greg again. And thanks for outing me, by the way. It’s good to have a best friend like you! He threw a slightly annoyed gaze at Greg and brought his attention back to Melissa. There is a girl, yes. But we’re not a couple. We’ve been dating for a week and I don’t want to jinx it by telling people too soon.

Good for you, Tom. Do we know her? Melissa said, being truly happy for her usually not so lucky-in-love friend.

No, I don’t think so. She’s just moved here, he answered as they walked over towards the bar.

So, who is she? Melissa asked. Greg smiled while he watched his girlfriend skilfully directed the conversation.

A real looker! Greg said while clapping Tom on the back. Almost too good for my best friend here.

Oh my, you have met her already? Melissa turned towards Greg with a serious face.

No, Tom showed me a picture.

Is that so? Can I take a look, too? She quickly brought the attention back to the poor boy, who felt like a play toy.

I don’t have it with me, but…, Tom averted his gaze.

But what? Melissa raised her brow again.

She might be coming over to pick me up later.

I see… She smiled in delight before turning around to exchange a sly grin with Greg.

So of course you will introduce your best friends to her, right, Tom? Greg said and Melissa nodded in agreement.

Unable to resist her perfect smile, Tom stuttered, I… I guess…

Good, we’re looking forward to it, Greg said, rubbing his hands. And now for that beer…

After a few hours of drinking and chatting, they said their goodbyes to their friends and made their way outside. All of them slightly affected by alcohol made the stairs more troublesome to manoeuvre than earlier.

When they arrived on the already busy street behind the university building, they noticed for the first time how late it was. Given the light at the horizon, the sun would rise in a few minutes.

You know guys… I have to tell you something before you meet her, Tom slurred.

What is it, Tom? The sweet British accent from Melissa filled the air.

Don’t tell me the picture was a fake and she’s ugly in reality. The wording was a clear sign that Greg might have had too much fun at the party and Melissa felt a bit sorry for their already nervous friend.

What?! No, not at all! She’s the most beautiful person I’ve ever seen! His eyes were shining as if he was talking about some kind of goddess.

So what’s the problem? Melissa gave him a confused look.

She is a bit… odd.

Odd, like crazy odd? Greg asked with a stupid grin.

No, more like cold and distant odd, he said.

That’s to be expected after just moving here, isn’t it? She might be insecure, but don’t you worry. Your good friends will help you warm her up. The diplomatic words of Melissa interrupted the conversation of the boys for a second.

Yes, we will break the ice. No! We will melt her heart. Greg pumped his fist, but Melissa was quick to bring him back to earth.

Now, that’s enough. You, sweetheart, have had too much beer.

No, no, I only had… He stared at his hand with a puzzled look, trying to count the bottles. I don’t remember.

And that’s a definite sign of too much, hun. Melissa sighed theatrically at Tom and started to shove Greg forward.

When they stumbled outside, Tom scanned the already crowded street for a sign of the object of his affection.

Maybe she forgot about you? Melissa said, holding her chin in her hand.

Or maybe she found someone better, Greg added, chuckling like an infant.

You’re always mean when you’ve had too much to drink, pal. Tom said with a small pout on his face.

Suddenly, the roar of a motorcycle that was parked at the other side of the street caught their attention. Tom’s expression changed instantly. His whole face lit up and his cheeks became a healthy colour.

There she is! He said with an unknown happiness and ran across the street.

Melissa and Greg looked at each other puzzled and decided to wait a few more seconds before they approached her. They closely watched the figure descending from the bike. The elegant movement left no doubt that it was indeed a woman and the tight leather-suit she wore, hugged her in all the right places. The black bike reflected the morning colours and Melissa had to admit, she was a bit over whelmed by the appearance of the woman.

They could see Tom gesturing nervously in their direction, so they followed his gesture to come over. The closer they got, the more Melissa had to admit that the woman’s body was nicely shaped. The black leather-suit didn’t leave any room for imagination, what would make it even more interesting, was if the face held what the curves promised. She knew that her boyfriend might have a stupid grin on his face, taking in the sight of Tom’s choice, but sometimes, one just has to accept that there are other good-looking girls out there.

Greg, Melissa… I would like to introduce you to the most beautiful woman on earth. This is Laila-Josephine Evans. Tom’s heart was probably about to burst when he proudly announced the name of the girl who stood next to him.

Don’t be ridiculous, Thomas! Was the response from his almost girlfriend.

The voice sounded very husky for a woman, but Melissa had to admit that it fitted the whole appearance perfectly.

Finally, the stranger took off her helmet and showed what everyone had been waiting for. Silky strands of long black hair fell out of the helmet and scattered across the shoulders of the girl. Melissa could hear her boyfriend inhale sharply and she turned around to send him a dangerous glare before bringing her full attention back to observe the new face in front of her.

She found herself staring into the most beautiful eyes she had ever seen. The deep emerald-colour reminded her of a wild ocean. A sad - lonesome look, which she had never seen in anybody else’s eyes before, taking her breath away for a second.

It’s nice to meet you, Laila-Josephine. I am Greg Chesterfield and this is my sweetheart Melissa West. The voice of Greg swept Melissa out of her trance.

Laila, The girl said. She didn't make an attempt to shake Greg's hand, so he withdrew it quickly.

Excuse me?

The name. Her voice didn’t falter. It’s just Laila.

Ah, yes. She doesn’t like to be so formal, Tom tossed in, nervously chuckling.

The girl turned towards him with crossed arms. I can talk for myself!

Melissa was still stunned about the sight in front of her and had some trouble keeping her composure. Maybe I should have skipped that last beer? I am having some very strange thoughts…

I would like to say that Tom has told us a lot about you, but sadly, I only heard about you for the first time tonight. What am I doing here? Making Tom look like an idiot at the first encounter. But at least he was right about you being quite eye-catching, she added, trying to save the conversation.

Idiot, Laila mumbled towards Tom, unable to hide the blush on her cheeks.

And now she looks even more gorgeous. Where on earth did Tom find her…? Melissa thought to herself.

Can we go now? The raven-haired girl said and jumped on the bike.

Of… of course. I’ll talk to you guys later, okay? Tom sat himself behind her.

Yeah sure, don’t forget our billiard-match tomorrow, Greg said waving.

Shoot! I already made plans with Laila.

No problem. You are free to go. The girl said and Tom looked at her like a beaten dog. Melissa pitied her friend for not saving the situation himself.

She just had to step in.

Why don’t we make it a double date? I am free tomorrow and I’ve always wanted to play with my precious boyfriend over here. We should show the guys how to play pool, she said, sending one of her perfect smiles along with the alluring British-accent.

I don’t know. Laila, are you okay with that? Tom asked shyly.

When Laila took a moment to consider, Melissa added, You don’t have to if you are afraid of losing. Her eyes were fixating the green ones of the girl.

The hell I am! Count me in! Laila said and a second later Tom bowed a silent ‘thank you’ to Melissa.

Alright you two, see you tomorrow. Melissa waved at them with a grin before Laila started the engine and sped away into the dawn.

You just had to do that, didn’t you? Greg said, approaching her from behind.

Of course. Look at Tom. He’s needy.

You’re too good to be true, and I love you for that, he whispered into her ear.

I know. Melissa smiled before Greg turned her around to draw her in for a kiss.

Sometimes the one thing you are looking for is the one thing you can't see. — Vanessa Williams

CHAPTER 2 – INTRIGUED

Melissa and Greg were already waiting inside the pool centre when Tom and his date arrived fashionably late.

Hello, you two. We were afraid that you’d let us down, but I guess, you’re not that scared of the competition, Melissa said with a warm smile.

Sorry guys. We got a little carried away. Tom’s apology sounded nervous. Greg used the chance to tease him a little.

Ah, carried away… I see. He grinned like a teenage boy and as a reward Tom’s face reddened within seconds.

Gah! It’s not what you think! It was- The girl with emerald eyes was quick to stop him from spilling anything idiotic with a fairly hard punch on his spiky-haired head. Ouch…, Tom winced while rubbing his head.

Serves you right, you idiot! she said, and then faced Greg and Melissa. We were late because he got a little carried away by holding on too tightly during the drive, she glanced at Tom, who was still rubbing his head. And so, we missed the exit-ramp.

Trying to excuse the situation, Tom held his hands up in defence. I was scared because you drove so fast.

Sissy…, Laila mumbled and turned her gaze towards the floor.

Melissa had watched the conversation silently. Tom was right about her being cold. Somehow she didn’t feel disturbed by it. Quite the contrary, it made her very intriguing. She seems to like him, yet, she isn’t able to say anything nice. I wonder what lies beyond that icy mask.

Alright, Greg said towards Melissa in a sweet tone. I think we can head over to the tables for an eight ball match then. So, it’s guys versus chicks? Or do you need the help of a man, sweetheart?

Well, let me know when you see one, Melissa countered and added one of her disarming smiles.

Greg had to admit, that he had just lost the first round. Ugh, crash and burn. I shall repay you in the match though.

We’ll see about that. The tone in Melissa voice made it hard to believe that in reality, she wasn’t any good at playing pool. She used the art of intimidation against her opponents and found it to be a good tactic.

Greg just smiled at her and gave her quick peck after tugging a strand of her chestnut hair behind her ear. He knew quite well that she wasn’t the best player. Unsure of what to do while the happy couple partook in a public display of affection, Tom and Laila looked the other way.

Hey, don’t be so shy you two. We’re on a date after all. Melissa loved how her blunt words made both of them blush.

Yeah, sure. Umm, let’s start already, Tom stuttered and walked over to the pool table. Greg followed him with a mischievous grin, leaving the two women behind.

So, Laila…, Melissa started, trying to initiate a conversation. To be honest, I’m not particularly good at this game, she admitted.

Is that so? You seemed quite confident, the girl stated, seemingly unaffected.

It’s always good to use fear to your scare off the enemy first. Melissa smiled at the other girl, but Laila’s expression remained icy.

I see.

Does she ever smile? Not wanting to let the conversation die away, Melissa tried again. Have you played pool before?

Sometimes, Laila answered, using one syllable as she had done previously.

Good. Melissa shrugged. Maybe we’ll be lucky.

Luck? What’s the point in winning something out of luck? It’s about being better than your opponent. For the first time, Melissa could sense some real emotions in the husky voice of the stoic girl. She had to admit that she was equally impressed and relieved about the combative spirit.

I feel a bit better now that I see you’re at least motivated.

Don’t worry. We’ll kick their asses, Laila said and walked over to the bar. One beer, Her tone was back to being cold, but Melissa wouldn’t let her get away so easily.

Make that two, please, she added, again smiling at Laila, who looked at her with puzzled eyes.

Sorry.

About what? The girl deliberately played ignorant, trying to create a light-hearted atmosphere.

I didn’t think you’d drink beer. Laila seemed to avoid her gaze and focused on her feet. Yet, Melissa didn’t know her well enough to assume if something was wrong.

How come? She gave her opposite an incredulous look.

Umm, well, look at you. Suddenly, Laila tilted her head and the green eyes wandered up and down her body.

Yes? The action didn’t go unnoticed by Melissa, but she didn’t want to scare her away with an improper comment.

I mean, you look more like a person who’d drink Champagne, Laila said, shrugging her shoulders, although her flushed cheeks made it look as if she was embarrassed. But then again, it was hard to judge in the dim light of the bar.

Oh my, so you are judging people by their looks? I am bit disappointed now. She locked her eyes with the emerald orbs. Laila wordlessly stared back at her and Melissa wasn’t sure what to make of it. The gaze was so intense and yet somewhat frightened.

There you go. That’ll be four dollars each, the bartender said as he brought the two glasses over and sat them on the bar.

Laila quickly handed over the money before Melissa even had time to search for her purse. They both turned around and leaned backwards against the bar, sipping on their beer.

Thank you. She wasn’t used to be treated to a drink by another girl, but didn’t complain either.

Again Laila remained quiet. Only the silence of Melissa seemed to make her speak again after a while.

Sorry for assuming things like that. It was stupid, she said, focusing on the pool tables on the other side of the room.

It’s okay. Melissa wanted to say more, but she wasn’t foolish enough to interrupt the other girl now, since she initiated the conversation.

No, it’s not. I, especially, should know better than to be so superficial.

She looked at Laila again, before asking, Does that mean you get judged by how you look often?

I guess. I can’t even be angry about it. After all, I’m not the average college girl.

Melissa visibly twitched and her eyes opened wide in surprise. You’re going to college, too? She felt ridiculous for looking at the other girl like that, but the news came like a bolt out of the blue.

Who’s the one judging others by their looks now? Laila said, looking into her eyes with a light smile. She was a bit stunned by the newly discovered image that crossed the lips of the other girl.

I’m… I’m sorry. Geez since when does someone make me stutter like a little girl…? What are your subjects? she continued.

History and English literature.

For real? Melissa put down the beer and shifted her weight to face Laila. Supporting herself with an elbow on the bar, she said, I’m studying English Literature, too. I’ve never seen you in any of the classes, though?

That’s because I just transferred here a few weeks ago, Laila explained. I will pick up the subjects next semester. I wanted to use spring break to get to know my new surroundings. The green eyes turned away from her again and Melissa wasn’t sure if the attention made the other girl uncomfortable. She decided to change back to her previous position.

I see, she replied. I guess that means we’re going to see each other from time to time. If you need help with your schedule or anything, feel free to ask.

I will remember that. Thanks. Again, Laila sounded way too serious, but Melissa decided that she liked the stern behaviour somehow.

You’re welcome, she said, smiling back widely.

They both turned and faced the pool tables across the room and found the boys waving them over to one of the tables. With another stunningly confident smile, Laila started walking over. Melissa looked after her, still amazed about the strange aura the girl gave.

Lady’s first? Greg said, handing the cue over to her.

She wasn't so convinced of her confidence anymore, but didn't want Greg to know. She turned around to the raven-haired girl, and although she thought she had hidden all of her insecurities, Laila gave her a reassuring nod. The deep green eyes seemed to pierce right through her. She turned back with a light sigh and opened the game with the first shot. Luck seemed to be on her side as one of the balls landed in a middle pocket.

I’m impressed. You have the solids, Greg said with a hint of amusement and turned to Tom.

That leaves the stripes for us, pal.

Good, I like them better anyway. Let’s see if Melissa can stand the pressure, Tom answered.

Melissa said nothing and aimed for another pocket. Sadly, the cue ball didn’t do what Melissa had planned, and the yellow ball with the number one on it, remained on the table.

Too bad ladies, it was a good try though. Tom and Greg grinned at each other like children and she found it frustrating to see her boyfriend behaving like this. She went over to Laila and handed her the stick.

I’m sorry, she said with a sigh.

Laila leaned her cheek against the stick and said, Don’t be. The game just started. They’ll need to do better first.

Unfortunately, that’s exactly what had happened. Greg hit ball after ball, until only the black eight was left.

I’m sorry ladies, but this is goodbye. It was a pleasure beating you. His smile was victorious and Melissa seriously thought about beating him up with the stick for his arrogance, but someone seemed to of have mercy and Greg missed the final shot.

Oh sweetheart, I’m so sorry that you missed that one. Melissa fluttered her eyelashes in delight. Greg's jaw tightened over the sight. He didn’t say a word when he walked away from the table.

Don’t worry. They play this stupid game every week. There is no shame in losing. Melissa said to the girl who was about to move over to the table for her turn.

We won’t, Laila responded so quietly, that only Melissa could hear her.

Pardon?

We won’t lose. The confidence in the raven-haired girl’s clearly audible voice made her fall silent and she watched her approach the table.

Laila circled the table a few times, taking a closer look at the situation. She took her time before making a move. She looked so deep in concentration, that none of the others dared to interrupt her. Finally, she positioned herself over the table. Melissa didn’t know why, but somehow adrenaline started to make her heart beat faster. She was sure that this game had been lost, but the self-confidence of the other girl gave her a small flicker of hope.

The emerald eyes of Laila were focused on the cue ball. Before the shot was made, she looked up at Melissa, instantly locking their eyes together. The brief moment stunned Melissa deeply. Uncertain about what to think of her reaction in that moment, she hadn’t noticed the success Laila had at first.

Laila had pocketed two solids with only one shot and even the boys seemed to be quite impressed, judging by their shocked faces. The girl herself didn’t comment on the shot and positioned herself for the next one. Ball after ball disappeared into the pockets until, again, only the black eight was left.

Laila turned around to Melissa and gave her a little smile, before winning the game with the next strike. Greg and Tom were loss for words and their jaws dropped in union.

This can’t be…, Tom mumbled after his mouth had become too dry to leave it open any longer.

Great Tom, you found someone who is able to embarrass you even more than yourself. The words of Greg didn’t sound as sarcastic as he had hoped for.

I had no idea that she’s a professional, Tom said in disbelief.

"That sounds so wrong…" Thankfully, Greg had whispered the comment. Otherwise, Melissa was sure that Laila would have punched the boy in his face.

Pity, we didn’t bet, Melissa said as she walked over to the boys.

Yeah… pity, Greg answered while crossing his arms, facing away from her. It’s time for a beer, don’t you think, Tom?

Definitely. Tom walked over to Laila, who was leaning against a wall with the stick still in her hands. Do you want something to drink? The girl only raised her glass to show that she was good. She didn’t even bother to look him in the eyes. Melissa wasn’t sure if it was a sign of annoyance or shyness. She couldn’t comprehend anything about this mysterious girl at all.

After Greg and Tom had disappeared, Melissa and Laila were alone again. Not quite knowing what to do, Melissa looked over to the raven-haired girl who was sipping her beer. Somehow the double date is not going as well as she had thought. Tom is dense at times. It wasn’t the best tactic to get drunk with Greg while his date is standing here all alone. Maybe I should go over and talk to her. There is something about Laila that says she is a little lost at times.

I’m amazed, Melissa said as she leaned against the wall next to Laila.

That, boys are sore losers? I’m not. I am used to it. She flipped back a strand of her long dark hair. It made her look almost arrogant, but given her billiard skills, she could afford to be.

I bet, Melissa murmured, looking at the profile of the silent girl. Her skin looks soft compared to the rather harsh attitude and her lips are beautifully shaped. The more she took in the features of the stranger, the more she had to admit that Tom was indeed right by calling her stunning. Laila suddenly looked up, catching Melissa’s gaze, she felt a bit embarrassed about blatantly staring at her.

Do you wanna learn how to play? Laila asked out of the blue, tearing her away from her thoughts too abruptly.

Ex… Excuse me? she said, a bit startled that the emerald eyes suddenly gazed at her.

Pool. Laila gave her an irritated look.

Pool? Oh of course, the game. I’m not good at it. What? Am I twelve now?

That’s why I’m asking you if you want me to show you how to play. Laila looked a bit flustered.

Now, get a hold of yourself, Melissa West! And stop babbling like an idiot!

Oh…um, if you want to teach me that badly, how can I decline? she said in her most alluring voice. Normally it did wonders when she needed to get out of a hairy situation, and it had worked. The other girl couldn’t hide the light blush that rose to her cheeks. Much better. I’m back on track, Melissa thought, not realising how fast she would be losing focus again during the private lesson.

She had gone over to the bar to fetch another beer for Laila and herself. She decided to make a short stop to check up on Greg and Tom to see if they were doing okay. Greg still was a little grim, so he wasn’t paying much attention to her. She had always known that her boyfriend was used to winning.

Being a law student, he couldn’t deal with losing. Still, it was only a game and she didn’t understand his reaction. It was probably a ‘male thing’. Her attempts at cheering him up were futile. He was already busy playing darts with Tom against two other guys who had seemed to have one too many beers. Men can be truly disgusting, she thought, while watching the guys for a few moments. When one of the drunks ordered another beer for the ‘round of men’, as he called it, she couldn’t help rolling her eyes in annoyance. Grabbing the two beer glasses, she turned her back on the guys. Her eyes were automatically wandering over to Laila. She was still leaning silently against the dark wall behind the pool table. It looked as if her eyes were drifting off into nothingness. Melissa stopped for a little while and watched her. Somehow, it was hard to tear her eyes away from the mysterious girl. She was still trying to figure out what it was that made Laila so fascinating.

As she got closer to the table, the lonesome look was replaced with a serious but friendlier face. Not knowing what to say, she handed over the beer. The fingertips of Laila brushed lightly over her palm, causing her to stiffen for a second as a little electric jolt shot through her body.

Sorry…, Laila, who must have felt it too, muttered before she took a huge sip.

Oh my, High voltage. She smiled. Maybe you should go over and use your electricity on our boys. They seem to be drowning their sorrows in beer, Melissa said and chuckled in the hope that the other girl would stop being uncomfortable. Luckily, it had worked. Laila smiled lightly, while inspecting the glass in her hands, her index finger circling the rim a few times.

They’ll get over it, she finally said, putting the beer away.

Melissa had been following the play of Laila’s finger on the rim of the glass and was a bit startled when the glass hit the table. Uncertain on how to explain her behaviour, she tried to pick up where they had left off earlier.

So, do you still want to show me how to become a professional pool player? she said with a playful grin.

I am not that good, but yes… I can show you the basics.

Melissa was not sure if Laila was a tad flattered by her remark but she could have sworn, she had seen a hint of colour on the cheeks on the other girl, or maybe it was just her imagination. Before she could investigate the situation any further though, Laila handed her one of the sticks.

Let’s begin with the break off, she said, suddenly sounding completely serious. Almost like a professional teaching a student. Try to aim straight at the apex of the ball.

Will do, Melissa replied, although she was a bit afraid of completely embarrassing herself.

While she was positioning the cue ball, Laila slowly walked to the opposite end of the table. When Melissa bent over to make her shot, her eyes got lost in an ocean of emerald. The colour balls on the table seemed to fade into a mush of black and white compared to the stunning eyes of Laila, who had kneeled down to watch Melissa's aim more closely. To find these eyes in the dimness behind the table made her lose every last bit of concentration. Dizzy… must be the smoke. What is it with those eyes? Why can’t I simply look away? Maybe the beer had been spiked? I am starting to feel weird, she thought, while feeling hypnotized.

I think it’s better if you focus on the cue ball. The husky voice of Laila ripped Melissa out of her daze within a second.

Sure, she said and smiled politely. I feel idiotic.

A little more to the left. Laila marked the direction with her index finger on the rim of the table.

Like that? Focusing on the table, she didn’t dare to look up again.

Yes. Now strike! She did as she was told, but somehow her hands didn’t obey her head. The ball was much too slow to break the pyramid of coloured balls fully. Not a single one landed in the pockets.

Wow, that was bad, Melissa remarked.

Doesn’t matter. We can practice break-offs later. Now try to aim at this one. Laila pointed at the green six that was positioned close to the right side pocket. Melissa nodded with a determined look and tried her luck once more. She bent over and again and looked straight into Laila’s striking eyes.

However, this time she could bring herself to focus on the cue ball without having the other girl telling her to. Just when she was about to make her shot, Laila suddenly interrupted her.

If you don’t stop your action now, you might end up with a double kiss. The low voice was completely calm. But the words alone sounded so wrong to Melissa that she couldn’t stop her movement anymore. Her eyes shot up due to the unexpected comment and she lost her angle. She hit the cue ball in

Reviews for She Came At Dawn

[Geri B · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I loved this story because it captured the angst and fear that we all feel when escaping something normal for something worthwhile and uncertain. The feelings the characters experience: Melissa, for going for love instead of perfection, and Laila, putting her heart on the line for a maybe... It's what I and my partner have gone through.

[Sally Arthur · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

A better editor would have done this story a lot of good. Still, I'm glad I read it.