Game Change: Peace in a Nightmare

By SheyCheneduToit

Talk about the week from Hell After a night out gone wrong, Alyssa and her friends decide to take a road trip to get away from all the drama. Sounds like a good idea, right? Wrong.
What should have been an awesome trip turned into the worst time of their lives. From discovering who their true friends are and falling in love to finding out that witches and werewolves actually exist and discovering hidden Realms and long kept secrets. Secrets that could destroy the lives of everyone they love.
After getting attacked by Shadowmen, they are trapped in a game of life and death that only has one rule: Run for your life. Or die trying.
Who will survive this road trip from Hell?

I am 22 years old, I started writing my 1st book when I was 15. I recently got my Psychology degree and will be studying Psychology Honors this year.
Game Change: Peace in a Nightmare is the 1st book of 4 in the series and I really hope the young readers enjoy the adventures Alyssa and her friends go on during their lives.

• Language: English
• Publisher: SheyCheneduToit
• Release date: Dec 4, 2019
• ISBN: 9780463632239

Book preview

Copyright © 2019 Shey du Toit

First edition 2019

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or any information storage or retrieval system without permission from the copyright holder.

The Author has made every effort to trace and acknowledge sources/resources/individuals. In the event that any images/information have been incorrectly attributed or credited, the Author will be pleased to rectify these omissions at the earliest opportunity.

Published by Shey du Toit

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 11

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 13

CHAPTER 14

CHAPTER 15

CHAPTER 16

CHAPTER 17

CHAPTER 18

EPILOGUE

CHAPTER 1

Walking into a restricted area the group squealed with excitement, the rumbling thunder put them on edge as they hurried towards the haunted house. Sophie fell down on the front steps of the house and Ted helped her up.

"I’m scared!" She cried.

They broke into the house and looked around.

"Wait! Look! Sophie cried, on the stairs stood a demon, they turned to run but it appeared in front of them, its voice booming around them, How dare you enter a place of demon ground!" It screeched, someone screamed and the demon’s face twisted–

Do we seriously have to watch this shit? I’m running out of popcorn. Tyler shut up! You’re ruining the movie! Michelle hissed from the other side of the room.

Tyler shot her a look of annoyance and got up to leave, someone in the movie screamed and he hurried out of the room. Michelle Benson was a tall tan blonde with a killer body, her ash blond hair reaching her waist. Her parents were super rich and she had an amazing artistic talent and fashion sense, she also always spoke her mind which inevitably always got her into trouble. She was dating Riley Davis who was on the school rugby team with her older brother Tyler. Tyler had black hair and the same dark sea-blue eyes as his sister; he was dating one of the school bitches, Layla.

It was Friday night and they always watched DVDs at the Benson house, at least until everyone’s parents were asleep, then the night would really start. Tyler would always invite his girlfriend and her friends along with their boyfriends over and fights would start amongst Tyler and Michelle’s friends.

Storm reached for the cover. How long is this movie anyway? She looked at the back of Demon Ground3, 3 freaking hours! How long have we been watching? Michelle shot Storm a glare, she dropped the cover. Sorry.

Why don’t you go to the kitchen and get some soda or go see where Tyler went, Daniel whispered in her ear. Storm got up and headed for the door.

Fine, she opened the kitchen door and walked in, Tyler are you in here? She looked around the kitchen, Tyler was nowhere in sight. Deciding to look upstairs she softly made her way to and up the stairs, swearing when she nearly fell over the sleeping dog, she quickly recovered and continued down the hall. Where’s his room! she thought.

She went to the first door and tried to open it but found that it was locked. She tried the second door and it opened, she put the light on and looked around the room. The walls were painted beige, the curtains were white and the bed was against the wall, the sheets were also white and the bed was neatly made up. The desk was clean except for one paper, Storm walked over and picked up the document and scanned through it, words like Divorce, custody and alimony stood out. She put the document down and hurried out the door, switching the light off.

She went to the third door and hesitantly turned the doorknob, she walked into the room, Tyler, please tell me you’re– she broke off and stared.

Tyler was standing by the open window, the only clothes he had on were his boxer briefs. At the sound of her voice he turned around. His blue eyes glowing, he stood there staring at her, he was covered in sweat and blood. Storm backed away towards the door.

Sorry, she said and turned to run.

Storm wait! Tyler moved closer to her.

Storm froze and waited for him to explain, when he said nothing she turned around and swallowed hard. He shrugged and closed the space between them.

Were you looking for me? he asked after an awkward moment.

She gaped at him and he rolled his eyes. Seriously Storm, close your mouth you look like an idiot.

Storm snapped her mouth shut and glared at him. Just wanted to know why you stormed off, I think Michelle wanted to ask you something, she said, lying about the last part, she wasn’t even sure why she’d been looking for him, maybe because she despised horror movies.

I’ll be right down, he turned around.

She took that as her cue to leave; she went out of his room and down the stairs to Daniel. When she sat down next to him he smiled at her. She awkwardly returned his smile and watched the rest of the movie in silence.

Tyler got out of the shower and put on some dry clothes. He couldn’t get over the fact that Storm didn’t see the demonic creature lying on the floor, she only saw the blood that covered him. He paused to pet the dog on his way down the stairs. He thought about Storm, she was a short petite girl with brown hair, blonde highlights and light green eyes. She loved photography and barely ever left her camera behind, she took photos of every good moment she had with her friends and even had a photo with Tyler. He took a seat next to Storm and stared at the TV.

Is the movie done yet? he asked.

Storm looked at him, yeah it’s the end. You missed the scary parts.

Michelle stood up and took the DVD out. Ty?

Yeah? he looked at his sister.

Could you roll out some cash for me? she smiled at him.

How much are we talking here? he looked at his phone, shit! I gotta go pick Layla up, he stood up and reached for his wallet, took out a few crumpled notes and gave it to her. Be back in a little bit. He kissed Michelle on the head and rushed out the front door, car keys in hand.

Michelle smiled. Let’s go.

She took Storm’s hands and helped her up. Daniel and Riley got to their feet while Michelle and Storm put their shoes on and walked to the front door.

I think we should take my car, Riley offered.

Michelle beamed, great! She took Riley’s hand and dragged him outside and Storm and Daniel followed them.

So we’ve got half an hour before Ally arrives, if we hurry we can be back before she gets here, Michelle said.

Riley smiled. Then let’s go.

Shotgun! Michelle threw her hands up and did a little twirl.

Riley pulled Michelle closer to him and pulled her dress down to make sure she’s covered, she laughed.

Daniel smiled. Just don’t break something in those heels. He looked down at her six-inch black stiletto heels and grimaced, Storm, I’m glad you’re wearing flats.

Storm blushed and looked down at what they were wearing. She was wearing a short red dress and comfortable but fashionable red shoes, Michelle was wearing a short dark blue dress that sat like a second skin on her, both girls’ hair were loose. Michelle’s hair was naturally straight but Storm’s hair had a kink to it that she always straightened when they went out.

Storm got into the back of the car with Daniel and Riley pulled out of the driveway, Storm felt something buzz and realised that someone was calling her, she shushed everyone and answered.

Hello?

"Storm Blake! Where have you been! I have been calling you all night!" her crazy mother yelled over the phone.

Oh, uh, hi Mom, yes sorry we’ve been watching movies all night. I must have forgotten to call you. She listened to her mom for a while then faked a yawn, I’m sorry mom, I’m just so tired! Gosh, I’ll call you in the morning ‘Kay? She ended the call and put her phone away. Sorry about that guys.

Michelle reached over the seat and gave Storm’s leg a squeeze, Storm smiled and squeezed Michelle’s hand. She looked at Daniel and he opened his arms, she rested against him. Riley turned the music up. A favourite club song of theirs came on and Michelle turned the volume even higher.

Turn left here, Michelle shouted over the loud music.

Riley turned and after a few minutes Michelle told him to stop at some shady looking store. He parked the car and both of them got out, leaving Storm and Daniel in the car. After ten minutes they came back and got into the car. Michelle gave the bag to Daniel and turned back to Riley. Daniel took the things out of the bag. He looked at Michelle.

Yo, why didn’t you get a see-through hubb? And what flavour did you get? Daniel shouted over the loud music.

Riley turned the music down and Michelle twisted in her seat. Because people who smoke cheap shit get cheap see-through ones, plus I liked that one most, oh and I got blue mix and some pot. She held the little bag up and shook it.

Oh sweet–

Storm, chill, okay? It’s not for us, I owed a friend and this, she gestured to the bag, is how they wanted to be repaid. She threw her head back against the seat and stared at the roof.

Riley hit the brakes. What? he turned around in his seat. Why? He took the bag from her and threw it under his seat.

Hurt flashed in her eyes and she turned and looked out the window, ignoring them. The rest of the way home everyone was silent. When they arrived at Michelle’s house she got out the car and slammed the door, stalking to the front door. Riley sighed and got out the car walking around to go inside, he kicked the tire and swore.

Just go talk to her, she’ll answer you. Just be nice, don’t yell, her mom does that enough, Storm said to Riley.

I’ll try, he shrugged and walked to the front door.

Storm checked the time on her phone. I’ll meet you guys inside, Alyssa will be here any minute and I’m sure Seth will get a lift with her.

Daniel turned to her and pulled her closer to him, a serious look on his face. Storm narrowed her eyes at him. Did you say Seth is coming?

She nodded.

Oh, this is gonna be interesting.

Why? Do you have a problem with him?

No, but Damian does. He waited for Storm to catch on.

Yeah, it’s not like– her eyes widened. Oh shit! I didn’t think of that.

You know Layla invites her friends and those friends bring boyfriends and Damian will show up with whatsherface and Alyssa will be uncomfortable again.

They won’t kill each other, right? I don’t understand why Damian always has to fight with Seth.

Daniel sighed. Let’s just hope they take it easy tonight, I’m not in the mood for breaking up fights.

I can see Alyssa’s car, and Seth, is in the car, with her, this is bad really, really bad. Storm rubbed her temples.

Daniel turned around and watched the road. Alyssa was coming from the left and to their right were more oncoming cars. In the first car he could make out two people, he knew it was Tyler and his bitchy girlfriend, Layla Brooks. Stephanie Hale and her boyfriend Brandon Jones would be in the next car, then in the next three cars it would be Tracy lee Gordon and Bradley Lane, Naomi Robins and Paul Manson then finally in the last car it would be Damian Wolfe. Daniel wondered if Jessica Ashworth would be with him. Probably not, she’s too young anyway. He turned to Storm and smiled down at her, Damian would not ruin his night.

Where do you think we’re going tonight?

Storm laughed, I really don’t know, Michelle didn’t want to tell me, you know how she can be when it comes down to what party we’re going to. She looked at the approaching cars.

Hey, don’t mind them, we’re gonna have fun and make them jealous, okay? he turned her face towards him and smiled.

She nodded and stood on the tips of her toes giving him a soft kiss on the lips. Still glad I have flats on? she stood there looking up at him.

He seemed to consider. Nah man, don’t wear high heels if you’re going to a party where there’s booze involved, you might get drunk and break something.

Come closer I wanna tell you something.

He leaned down to hear what she had to say, she blew in his neck and whispered, look behind you.

He frowned at her. Why would I– he shook his head. That movie wasn’t scary.

Just promise this night won’t suck, she tried not to pout.

He bent down and kissed her. Promise, he said between kisses, his arms were around her waist so he picked her up, her hands were holding his face and he smiled.

CHAPTER 2

Seeing Daniel and Storm making out in front of Michelle’s house was too cute, which was why she just had to honk at them, they jumped so high she thought Seth would die from laughter. She parked her car and waited until Seth was out before she locked it. She winked at him and turned around to greet her friends.

It seems to me that I interrupted a serious game of tongue hockey; oh did that seem serious! If I may, I would like to know whom was winning? Who was in the lead? Alyssa loved teasing them. By all means continue, me and my companion will slowly disappear, if you’d like?

Storm blushed and looked down at her feet, Daniel just smiled at her.

Oh come on. She caught Storm in a hug, then moved on to Daniel a big smile on her face. Whatup Dan! He scooped her up into a big hug, then gently set her down. So, any news about tonight?

Daniel looked weary and Storm’s eyes widened. She looked closely at Daniel, she had known Daniel Wilde almost her whole life and his face was very familiar to her. From his muscular build and blond hair to his brown eyes and tanned skin, his hair had changed a lot over the years, as a kid his mother had always cut his hair in a very dorky kind of way, but when he told her he wanted something different, she told him to do what he wanted and he did, his hair was cut in a very modern way, all the hair going to one side of his face, but barely hanging in his eyes. He never got into trouble for his hair, because he charmed all the teachers at school with his personality.

Alyssa had been ecstatic when she had found out that Daniel had a crush on Storm and that Storm also had a thing for him, she immediately got them together and they were going strong for two years now.

Dan what’s wrong? she heard the concern in her own voice.

Damian’s coming, Ally, his eyes flicked towards the cars and Seth, then he looked down at her.

Alyssa stared at them and saw that Seth was doing the same; she took a deep breath before she spoke. I think we’ll go inside, you guys coming?

We’ll be right there, you guys go ahead, Daniel said.

Okay, see you inside. Alyssa held her hand out to Seth and he took it eagerly, following her to the front door. The house was a two-story building, with wide front doors. Alyssa pushed Seth through the double doors and into the house, she was about to push him up the stairs when he stopped walking. She frowned at him and tried to push him, but he wouldn’t budge.

I can walk on my own you know, he took her hands in his. Why are you in such a rush? We’re here aren’t we? Is it because of Damian? he looked down at her hands in his.

"I’m not in a rush, and you do know we’re not staying here, right?" she ignored his last question.

Where are we going then? Just then they heard the cars stop outside and people get out.

Come on! She pulled him towards the stairs and he followed, picking up the pace, they reached the top of the stairs and Alyssa heard the front doors open and she headed for the first door she saw and tried to open it, but it was locked. She went to the second door and it clicked open, she ushered Seth inside and closed the door behind her, they stood in darkness.

Seth sucked in air to say something and she put both her hands over his mouth; she listened to hear if anyone was coming up the stairs. Seth took her hands off his mouth and put them around his neck. Her eyes had adjusted to the darkness and she saw that they were in the guest bedroom; she saw the bed and got an idea. She led Seth to the bed and told him to get in; she heard voices coming up the stairs and looked out the window. Someone was standing there staring right at her, the guy was standing under a streetlight and she could see that he was bald and creepy looking, she looked down at Seth then back out the window, the guy was gone. She got into the bed and shivered, she moved closer to Seth and he put his arms around her, she closed her eyes and waited.

The voices they heard got closer to the door and she felt Seth lifting her chin, she opened her eyes and saw that his face was dangerously close to hers, she was pulled up against him and could feel the rise and fall of his chest as he breathed, she could even hear his heartbeat. She looked at his mouth and saw that it was moving closer to hers.

Shit. I never thought that this moment would come! What if he really sucks at this? she looked closely at him. He was very good looking with his emo style, blond hair and yellow-green eyes with a skater boy attitude so many girls fell for; he had a nice tanned body and was very tall. Maybe he should kiss me, we’ve always been just friends, maybe we could be more? She braced herself. He whispered something so softly she barely heard him.

He leaned down and gave her one of the softest kisses she’s ever felt, she leaned in and he deepened the kiss, opening her mouth and taking control, he held her tight and she played with his hair, someone opened the door and switched the light on but quickly retreated when that person saw what was going on. When the door closed Seth broke off the kiss.

Hey! Alyssa complained when he pulled away from her.

He propped himself up on one elbow. What?

She thought about what he whispered and the whole make out thing made sense "just play along" she groaned and turned, laying face down on the pillow she mumbled. iflsostpd.

His brow rose. What did you say? he turned her to face him.

She looked up at him. I said ‘I feel so stupid’.

He smiled. Why? Did I kiss you senseless?

She hit his arm. Why did you do that? You know I just got out of a relationship!

He frowned and rubbed his arm. I had to kiss you because just laying here would look stupid but laying here kissing, people will leave us alone especially if they think that we’re about to, you know,

She cut him off. Okay I get it, but why make it so hot and steamy?

Wait, are you saying you liked it? he looked surprised.

She mumbled something and looked away; he turned her face towards him. Alyssa, did you like it?

She touched her lips. Yes.

He swore and fell down on the bed covering his face with his hands, she glared at him. What’s wrong with you? Do you think I’m lying?

No, I didn’t think you’d like it, but now that I know you liked it, I just wish I did it earlier, before you dated that jackass Brett for like three years?

She looked at him and sighed. Seth, just kiss me again would you?

He stared at her; she rolled her eyes and started to get out of bed. He grabbed her and pulled her back down kissing her neck and her face. His mouth found hers and they enjoyed every moment of it. After what seemed like a few seconds someone knocked on the door, Seth kissed her neck and she shouted at the door.

Kinda busy here! she felt a sting on her neck where Seth’s mouth was but ignored it.

Alyssa! Get your ass out here! It’s been forty-five freaking minutes! We wanna get the hell outta here! Michelle shouted back.

Shit! I’ll, uh, be right there, just give me five minutes and I’ll meet you guys down stairs! She shouted and pushed Seth off and rolled out of bed. She went to the dressing table and looked in the mirror, her hair was completely dishevelled. What did you do? she asked her reflection.

Seth got up from the bed, stretched and walked over to stand behind her. "No, not what did I do, what did you do? Look at my hair."

She quickly finger-combed her hair then opened the door to go downstairs.

Wait, Seth said and she turned to look at him.

Yeah?

Does this mean we’re, like, a couple now? Or whatever?

Gosh no! I simply used you for your mouth, now I am going to run away with a bunch of druggies, get engaged to the drug lords’ son and–

Just answer me please, there’s no need to mock me.

She smiled. Well if you’d let me finish, you would’ve heard my answer but since you think I’m mocking you, you’re gonna have to ask me.

Fine, Alyssa Emily Archer will you be my official girlfriend? he asked nervously.

She covered her face with one hand. Did you have to use my full name?

He stared at her.

What?

He kept staring at her completely dumbfounded.

Oh right! I forgot all about that, sorry, let me think, uh, sure? she laughed at his expression. Chill Raven, I said yes.

You have no idea how relieved I am.

She rolled her eyes. Enough of this nonsense, we have to get downstairs. She went out the door and started down the stairs when Seth caught up with her and slid his hand into hers.

Alyssa Archer was a beautiful girl with strange grey eyes and long black hair cascading down her back, she was a dancer and had the body to prove it. She had a slight tan and had a tattoo on her left wrist. She was wearing short blue, ripped jean shorts with black Vans and a black top showing cleavage, her hair was loose and straightened and she had a lot of black eyeliner on.

Everyone was waiting for them when they reached the living room.

Hey Riley, Alyssa greeted him then went to Michelle. Hey Chelle, sorry about that I was, she glanced at Seth who was talking with Daniel, Riley and Storm, distracted.

Michelle gave her a hug. Don’t worry I’m just glad you ca– Michelle frowned at her neck. Is that a hickey?

Alyssa reached up and touched her neck. What? she winced when she touched it. I’m gonna kill him.

Michelle laughed. No don’t do that, when he sees it he’s gonna see it as marked territory, Damian’s going to freak! She took Alyssa’s hand away and looked at it, then sighed. Damn, I wish Riley would bite me like that.

She laughed. I’m not his territory.

What’s all the giggling about, drunk already? How pathetic. Stephanie stood with her hands on her hips, a haughty expression on her face.

Michelle rolled her eyes. More like laughing about how pathetic you are, following Tyler around, opening your legs to get a boyfriend. Your parents must be so proud. she said sarcastically.

Alyssa took Michelle’s arm and dragged her to the door. We’ve got better things to do than talk about trash, she said and went through the door shouting, Riley, guys, let’s go! over her shoulder.

When they got to Riley’s black Land Rover Alyssa turned Michelle around, why does she always try to get a reaction from you?

Michelle sighed. I have no idea, she used to be such a good girl in seventh grade but ever since high school she became such a slutty bitch! I don’t understand why.

Well, let’s not let her ruin our night okay?

Michelle nodded and got into the passenger seat. Riley and the rest of them got there and piled into the car. Riley said he would stay sober and drive everyone back to Michelle’s house afterwards, as Storm, Daniel, Seth and Alyssa were getting into the back. Riley started the car and took off down the road towards someone’s party.

Michelle? Where’re we going? We’re not crashing someone’s sweet sixteen again are we? Alyssa asked.

Michelle threw her head back and laughed. Oh shit, I remember that! It was so funny. The good times we’ve had together. No, we’re going to my cousin’s twenty-second; I told him I’d bring some hubb. He doesn’t expect presents from me, so we’re fine. She put her hand on Riley’s leg and smiled at him.

Have we met your cousin before? Storm asked.

No, but don’t worry, he doesn’t care who attends his party. She shrugged.

Michelle, I have a bad feeling about this party, you know that girl Rhea from my history class is throwing a pool party, it ends at three. There’s still time to go, Alyssa said.

Nah girl, it’s my cousin, we’re totally safe! We can go to Rhea’s party if we get bored, okay?

I don’t like this. Stephanie didn’t say anything when Michelle basically called her a slut; I think she planned for something bad to happen, she whispered to Seth.

You don’t think she’ll do anything to hurt Michelle, right? he whispered back.

With Stephanie anything is possible. She looked at Seth, anyway, to change the subject, why didn’t you ever kiss me before? Did you only grow a pair tonight?

Seth smiled. I’ve always had a pair, I just never used them, he winked, but tonight I had an excuse to kiss you.

You used your excuse well, Mr Raven.

I’m just glad you said yes, he kissed her on the cheek.

I said yes? she stared at him. Sir, I am shocked! How could I? she put the back of her hand on her forehead and closed her eyes, then smiled.

Archer, you give me a headache, he frowned at her.

It’s only the beginning, she kissed him.

Get a room! Michelle said over her shoulder. How would you feel if Riley kissed me in your car? she raised her eyebrows at Alyssa.

You already did that, Chelle.

Michelle laughed. I forgot about that!

Alyssa shook her head and looked out the window, on the radio one of her favourite songs started and she quietly sang along under her breath. They got closer to the party and Michelle turned the sound up, all of them sang loudly with the metal song playing on Riley’s playlist when they rounded a corner.

CHAPTER 3

It was obvious that they reached the party even before they reached the house. Loud music was playing and the house was covered in toilet paper, there were a few passed out people on the front lawn and plastic cups were everywhere. People were packed on the front steps and you could barely see the front door. Riley parked his car across the street and everyone got out the car. They crossed the street and Storm gagged when they reached the house. The place reeked of alcohol and puke. It was very unpleasant and gross.

Nice Michelle, Daniel gave one of the passed-out guys a nudge with his foot, the guy didn’t even move. This guy’s wrecked.

We could still make Rhea’s party if we leave now, Alyssa suggested.

Michelle rolled her eyes. This is my cousin, Ally, just chill and enjoy. She took Riley’s hand. Let’s go, I wanna wish him a happy birthday.

They started walking to the front door.

Shit! I almost stepped in puke! Daniel looked disgusted.

Seth took Alyssa’s hand. Let’s go babe, this music is epic! he started pulling her to the door.

She pulled back. Let’s just stick together and look out for Stephanie. She looked at Storm who had gone very pale. Storm? she touched her friend’s arm.

Look, she pointed at a tree, behind it was stalker-dude, the guy she’d seen outside Michelle’s house, then she looked down the road and Alyssa saw that Tyler and the rest of them were almost there.

I’ve seen that guy before, he follows Michelle everywhere and I’ve seen him talking with Stephanie before, he doesn’t look normal, she looked at Alyssa with wide