Melanie's Evanescent Journey

By B. Truly

True Love may cost a price, if the greater good preordains that you are the sacrifice.

There are always two sides to a story. Melanie Wilhelm's begins after she moves from Australia and starts her senior year at Cashmere High. On her first day, she bumps into a mysterious guy, and they form an instant connection. They become friends and he shares his deepest secret with her. As they grow closer, their relationship amplifies and becomes binding. Strange things occur, but instead of worrying, Melanie's feelings intensify.
The excitement of New Year's Eve approaches, and so does Jason's most devastating revelation of all. She learns his ultimate truth and is now spun into his chaotic web. The danger rises and hard choices must be made. By being with Jason, Melanie may have to sacrifice more than her heart. It may cost her life.
Melanie's Evanescent Journey ties into books one and two of The Sonar Trilogy. From spiraling twists to devastating plots, her journey will make you question fate and true love.
Is fate something you can control? Some believe it's in the hands of what you behold.

• Language: English
• Publisher: B. Truly
• Release date: May 31, 2014
• ISBN: 9781311583741

Book preview

Melanie’s Evanescent Journey

By

B. Truly

Copyright © 2014 Authored By: B Truly

All rights reserved

ISBN: 9781311583741

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher. This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead is purely accidental.

Dedication

Thank you to my family who always supports me, and to mother, Dianna Simpson. Also, to my book partner, Kathleen Montemayor. A special thanks goes out to my son, Jamail Gaines. He knows my characters well and has given me input for scenes in this novel.

Table of Contents

Part I

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Part II

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Epilogue

Sonar The Crashing Prologue

The Crash Bonus

Special E-book Edition

Extended and additional scenes

There are always two sides to a story. Find out Melanie Wilhelm’s in this exhilarating new adult, paranormal, sci-fi, romance. From spiraling twists to devastating ploys, this journey will make you question true love.

Love may cost a price, if the greater good preordains you are the sacrifice.

Part I

Chapter 1

America the land of the free, as the famous saying went. I was still getting used to the home of the brave. The American way was slightly differently than the Australian way, where I had been born and raised. There were several things which I loved about this country, but I still missed home. It was my first day as a senior at Cashmere High. My dad had accepted a job transfer to Denver, Colorado, and we moved to the United States at the beginning of June.

I’d made a few friends over the summer and always got the same question from everyone: Wow, where are you from? Your accent is strong. Once I told them Australia, they were genuinely interested. It was a good way to break the ice. Ebony Wilson lived across the street. She was a senior this year, also, and very talkative. I loved her personality. We had become great friends over the summer. It seemed like I had known her all of my life.

Pulling into her driveway, I blew the horn. Ebony pranced to the car a few seconds later, tickled pink about the first day. Not me, my stomach was a bundle of nerves. Ebony was five-six, three inches taller than me. Her jet-black hair had been long like mine at the beginning of the summer, but a few weeks ago, she decided to try something new and chopped it all off. Now she had her hair styled in a short bob, which looked great on her. She tried to talk me into getting a short do, too. My blonde hair was naturally wavy, and I wasn’t sure how the waves would pan out in a bob.

Hey, Mel, she said, getting into the car.

How ya doin’, Ebony?

I’m pretty psyched about being a senior this year. You look cute by the way. Your light green shirt matches your eyes perfectly.

Cheers mate, so do you.

I just love your Australian terms, she giggled.

Well, you’ve been showing me the ropes.

I’ll have you fully converted into an all-out American in no time. I grinned at her enthusiasm. You’ll love Cashmere. Are you ready?

As ready as I’m going to be.

There were several students in the cafeteria when we arrived. It was a good-size school with about four thousand pupils. Ebony introduced me to some of her friends. Of course, I received the where are you from question because of my accent. Everyone seemed nice, but I still missed my old high school and friends. It sucked to attend a school for three years, then have to graduate from another. I went through the cafeteria line for chocolate milk, my favorite. Not paying attention, I took a sip, and then I bumped into him, spilling milk on his shirt.

How humiliating. Oh, my gosh! I’m such a klutz, sorry.

He seemed startled for a second but recovered. It’s fine. Don’t worry about it.

But it’s all over your shirt.

I’ll live, besides, my shirt can be washed, he shrugged, smiling at me.

Getting over my initial embarrassment, I really got a good look at him. Slightly over six feet tall, he had chestnut-brown hair with red highlights. His eyes were so green, like emeralds. Were they his natural color? Did he attend school here because he looked like a model from Vogue?

My name is Jason, by the way.

My tongue was stuck to the inside of my mouth. I shook my head, trying to clear my thoughts. He was talking to me. What had he said? I didn’t want to sound like a stuttering fool. He’s just a guy. Well, more like a Greek god.

Hi, I’m Melanie.

Nice to meet you, Melanie.

Likewise, I replied, as the bell rang. I better get a head start to class, I added, after a few silent seconds.

Okay. See you around, Melanie.

I felt like such an idiot standing there ogling him. I’m sure he couldn’t help but notice with how my mouth was hanging open.

Ebony approached me. I see you met Jason.

Yep, I did. Although, it was more like I spilled milk on him.

It was a good way to get his attention.

I’m so embarrassed. He was nice about it at least.

"He’s also totally smoking!"

I definitely noticed that, too.

His brother Jaden is good-looking, also. They are the two hottest guys in school. His brother is very cocky, though.

What grade is Jason in?

He’s a senior. His two siblings and he transferred here two years ago.

He has a girlfriend, I’m sure.

So you are interested in him, huh?

Probably every girl in this school is interested. He looks like a top-class model.

You’re right; they are, but good luck getting to know him. Believe it or not, even though he’s drop-dead gorgeous, Jason’s very shy. I’ve seen him speak to girls in passing. Dozens have tried to get his attention but failed. He’s a mystery and doesn’t seem to let anyone get close. It’s actually been entertaining to watch girls throw themselves at him. Ebony scrunched her noise. His brother, on the other hand, is a big flirt.

Do you know his brother personally?

She sighed. I actually do. We were in a relationship last year.

So he’s the one you’d mentioned over the summer, but when I asked you more about him, you changed the subject?

Yeah, that’s him.

Why did you guys break up? It’s obvious you cared about him.

I did—even thought seriously about taking it to the next level. Jaden was just too big of a flirt. Girls threw themselves at him, and he indulged in conversation instead of pushing them away like Jason does. We were in a relationship. I got tired of it, so I broke up with him.

At least you stood up for yourself.

I know, but I miss him. He tried to get back with me for a while afterward, I just didn’t give in. Now, I want to try again. But I think his pride is wounded, because Jaden purposely flirts with girls when I’m around.

Maybe it’s for the best then. You deserve someone who only admires you.

See, that’s why you’re my best friend. Ebony beamed. We better get to class before we’re late.

My first four classes and lunch flew by quickly. I had gotten several stares while exchanging classes in the hallway—interest from some guys and mostly evil glares from girls. Another perk of being the new girl. I was one of the first to arrive in my fifth-period calculus class. The teacher, Ms. Jones, told me to take a seat anywhere. I sat at an empty table toward the back of the room. As I waited for class to start, my thoughts were of Jason. His deep green eyes seemed to hold a mystery, one I found myself wanting to unfold. I was so deep in thought, I didn’t notice someone sit next to me.

Hi, again.

It was him. I jumped and could only imagine my facial expression. I was surprised and elated to see him at the same time.

Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.

He smiled and I melted. It’s okay. I was daydreaming. About you. Thank heavens he couldn’t read minds.

Is it all right if I sit next to you?

Hell yeah, you can! My mind screamed. Sure, it’s cool.

This is your first year attending Cashmere, right?

My breathing picked up, and I was trying to evaluate the situation. I’d had plenty of boyfriends in the past and I was pretty confident in myself. Why did I have butterflies in my stomach? No guy had ever made me this nervous before. Finally, I nodded.

You’re from Australia. It was not a question.

Yep, I am. Are people talking about me?

"They are talking about you, but not about where you’re from. I knew from your accent."

Impressive. Most people think I’m from Britain.

The bell rang, and Ms. Jones started class. She introduced herself, and then she told us that we could talk quietly among ourselves for a few minutes. I pulled out some of my homework.

Do you like America? Jason asked, turning again to face me.

What was Ebony talking about? He didn’t seem shy to me. It’s okay, but I miss home. Starting over in a new country my senior year is kind of hard.

I can imagine. Trust me. Why did you move here?

My father accepted a job transfer. My parents could retire ten years early if he took it.

I hope things get easier for you. This is a pretty nice town, though.

I glanced at his gray polo shirt, which was stained from chocolate milk, and bit my lip. I wasn’t sure if the stain would come out. He noticed my eyes full of guilt.

I’m not mad about the shirt, Melanie. It’s just clothing, and besides, it allowed us to meet, he replied with a bashful smile.

I loved the way my name sounded coming from his lips. And was he flirting with me? I could only hope. I heard you transferred here a few years ago. Have you lived in this country all your life? I asked, changing the subject.

His eyes widened, and he fiddled with his pen. That’s a complicated question.

It seemed like a simple one to me. How so?

His forehead wrinkled. Maybe another time.

What a weird response. Jason turned around as Ms. Jones addressed the class. One minute Jason was talking, asking me a ton of questions—I ask one question about him, and he shuts down. His close proximity made me fidget. It felt like he was sending off electric currents. I wanted to glance over at him but refrained. Class finally ended. I didn’t want my time to be up with him. At the same time, being so close to Jason was unnerving. He stood up, but waited for me to walk first, since I was closest to the aisle.

Do you need help finding your next class? Jason asked.

I really wasn’t sure where my next class was, but I needed some space from him. In the future, I’d have to get a grip because I refused to appear like a love-struck teenager. Cheers, but I know where it is.

All right, I’ll see you around.

My cheeks felt flushed. I attempted to smile as he walked away. I couldn’t figure him out. Most guys were so predictable. Jason had a wall up, but he seemed interested in me. Maybe he was just being nice to the new girl. Still, I hoped we could get to know each other better.

* * *

The next day butterflies twirled in my stomach, more than eager to get to school. I actually applied some makeup, which I rarely wore.

Wow, you look fantastic, Ebony said, getting into the car. I don’t ever think I’ve seen you wear makeup. You must be trying to impress a certain someone.

It’s no one in particular.

That’s a fat lie. In the three months I have known you, I’ve never seen you wear it.

I’ve just never felt like wearing it before.

Yeah, sure. This has something to do with someone whose name starts with the letter J.

Be quiet, I replied, grinning like a fool.

I pulled up to the school and we headed inside. My face fell when I noticed he wasn’t in the cafeteria.

After second period, I was at my locker. Jason was talking with a guy across the hall. We glanced at each other and he smiled at me. It must have been his brother he was speaking to—they resembled each other. I gathered my books, heading off to class.

My heart raced over seeing him in fifth period. He was already there when I arrived. My breathing hitched as I took my seat.

Jason bit his lip. How are you today, Melanie?

I’m fine. Not getting lost as much.

He laughed softly. That’s good. I’m glad to be in fifth period.

You like calculus?

It’s okay. This class is very easy for me.

Easy? He must be a genius because the subject was kind of difficult. You said you were happy to be here.

I am, but not for the subject.

My heart skipped a beat. Did he mean due to me? There was a God. I played it off. Were you talking with your brother earlier?

Yeah.

You guys resemble each other. Except he is a little taller, and you’re more muscular.

Really? We don’t get told that often. His hair is a much lighter brown and his eyes are hazel. He and my sister look exactly alike.

Well, you guys must all look alike, then.

My sister is in our class by the way.

What, she is?

Yeah, over there, he said, pointing.

His sister was sitting behind us, on the other side of the room. Her eyebrows rose, then she grinned and waved. Damn, the looks ran in the family. She was a knockout. She had long, light-brown hair and hazel eyes. Her face was flawless. Her lips were full and well sculptured. She could give Angelina Jolie a run for her money. I waved back.

I can see the family resemblance.

You are really observant.

Ugh! Why did I give him a full analysis? I felt my cheeks flush.

Don’t worry. It’s a good trait to have. I’m the same way.

That really didn’t make me feel better. Thank heavens the bell rang for class to begin. I threw my hair over my shoulder, creating a veil. I peeked at him through my hair, but at least he couldn’t see me. I hoped. When class ended, I wrote in my tablet like I was finishing something and didn’t look up. I heard him sigh.

Maybe I will see you again before the day is over.

I glanced up quickly, and then back to my notebook. We’ll see.

Okay, then.

Have a good one, Jason. I heard him walk away and I let out the breath I’d been holding. This man affected me like no one else. I had already embarrassed myself when class begun and didn’t want to say anything else to lead me to look like a stalker. Did he want to get to know me? He had stared at me several times throughout the class period, but had yet to ask me for my phone number or even a study date. It was frustrating, but I wasn’t going to give up trying to find out his mystery.

* * *

Work was busy this evening and it was a welcomed distraction. I worked as a waitress with Ebony at the Burger Grill. The restaurant was a small, family-owned diner. It had been around for over forty years. Ebony had gotten me on a few weeks ago.

How was your day? Ebony asked as we were putting our aprons on.

I’m getting used to the flow of school. How was yours?

It will be better once this shift is over. I’m bloated and cramping.

Did you take some medicine?

Yeah, but it hasn’t kicked in yet. Any luck with J?

Not sure. We talked some.

At least he’s talking with you. It’s a good sign.

I hope so.

People are getting seated in our sections. We’d better get to our tables.

We tended to the crowd, and around an hour later, Ebony tapped me on my shoulder.

Look what the cat dragged in. I sat him in your section, she said, giggling.

I saw Jason across the room, sitting with his brother and sister. My eyes grew wide. Thanks a lot. Now I would have to face him again.

You’re welcome. She stuck out her tongue.

Taking in a deep breath, I went to their table. G’day, guys, I’m Melanie. What can I get for you this evening?

Jason glanced up in surprise. He blushed, making my stomach do a somersault. Their sister greeted, Hi, Melanie. We get to formally meet now, I’m Harmony.

It’s nice to meet you, I said. What would you like to drink?

I’ll have a Coke, she replied.

Harmony and her brother did look exactly alike. Are you guy’s twins? I blurted out.

Yeah, we are, her brother answered. Good to meet you, Melanie. I’m Jaden. How do you like Cashmere so far?

It’s okay. School here is a little different from in Australia.

I love your accent, Jaden flirted.

Cheers mate. Jaden smirked. I mean thanks.

It’s all good. English has so many words and a lot of slang, Jaden said.

That’s for sure. Jaden was handsome, but his brother was gorgeous.

"Melanie, how long have you been working here? My siblings