Emerald Sky: Enchanted Roses

By Nicole Schwall

Contessa Rose and her siblings are forced to move to a small town in northern Oregon with their grandparents after the premature death of their parents. There they hope to lead normal lives. Instead, they come face to face with the supernatural. Contessa picks up her role as a social outcast, where she meets the secretive Thorne family, and the elusive Elliot. Contessa is sure that the family is hiding a secret as dark as her own, and she is determined to figure it out.

In a strange twist of fate, Contessa is forced to participate in a school fundraiser by her twin sister. During her forced participation, she discovers a strange truth about Elliot, and his family, a truth that could possibly mean the end of Contessa if she reveals it. Never one to run from a challenge, she exposes herself to the dark family. Now that she is exposed, Contessa is in more danger than ever before.

However, Contessa and the pixie-like Angelique Thorne become friends fast. Angelique and the other Thorne siblings force Elliot and Contessa together, believing that there is something deeper between them. Their interference forces Contessa into a world of magic and secrets that she believed only existed in fairytales. As Contessa heads deeper into a strange and dark relationship, the world around her begins to unfold.

As her relationship with the Thornes grows stronger, her relationships with her family and friends become more strained. Her sister and best friend cast her out, and her brother begins to pull further away from both sisters. With no one else to turn to, Contessa engulfs herself completely into understanding the supernatural that surrounds her.

Unable to step aside, Contessa continues to use her own gift to save everyone around her. She is soon to find that her luck is running out. It becomes apparent to Contessa that she needs a little protection of her own when a dark figure from her past comes back to haunt her. When the monster that killed her parents comes looking for revenge, Contessa is forced to return to her childhood home to save her brother. In a life or death battle, Contessa is forced to put aside her pride, and let someone else take care of her for once.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Apr 14, 2010
• ISBN: 9781462835218

Nicole Schwall

Nicole Schwall is 23 years old and resides in Marietta, Georgia. She has one child, a daughter named Harmony. Nicole graduated from the Art Institute of Atlanta in 2008 with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts. She works for a sign distribution company in Alpharetta, Georgia, where she is in charge of the Graphics department. Her fantastical artwork, and artistic imagination, inspired many short stories and poems that she has written since high school. Nicole was urged by family and friends to put these together, which resulted in the first book in a fantastical series.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Contessa, wake up!

My sister was kneeling over me, holding my shoulders tightly. I opened my eyes and searched around the room frantically. There was no screaming woman or murderous man to be seen. I was at home, in my own room, in my own bed. It was a different night, but it was the same old dream.

What is it Tessa? Cassandra’s face was a mixture of concern and anger. She was searching my face for the answers to the questions she just could not ask.

Sorry Cassie, I did not mean to wake you. I apologized quietly as I sat up.

Tessa, I am starting to worry about you. Cassandra’s accusing eyes bore down at me. These visions are making you . . .

These are not visions. I cut her off before she could point out how crazy I have become.

Cassandra’s eyes widened, but she did not say anything. I glanced over at the clock radio on my nightstand. Almost four in the morning, no wonder she was angry. I had not allowed my sister a full night’s sleep in months. Not that she was sleeping soundly in the first place I am sure.

You can go back to sleep Cassie. I am up now so there will be no more dreams tonight. Besides, we have a big day tomorrow.

Yeah, I cannot wait for it to start. Cassandra snorted in her usual manner and slunk back to her side of the room.

I watched my sister crawl gratefully back into her bed. She pulled the covers up over her so that I could no longer see the faded blue of her nightgown.

So much for finally getting my own room, I heard Cassandra complain as she pulled the frilly pink sheets over her head.  . . . cannot wait for college.

I would not even begin to know how she could think about such things at this moment. We had such bigger complications on our plate. Like starting a completely new life and leaving everything that we know, and love, behind.

I lay my head back and stared silently at the ceiling as my heartbeat and breathing were finally starting to return to normal. I heaved a great sigh of relief to be awake finally. I tried to push the images from my nightmare out of my head. There was no telling how much longer Cassandra was going to put up with my night terrors. I hated the fact that she was losing sleep over my guilty conscious.

I fingered the cross around my neck and listened to Cassandra’s breathing get shallower and shallower as sleep finally overtook her once again. When I was sure that she was asleep, I sat up slowly, picking the covers off the floor next to my bed. They were the only real casualties to my dreamland war.

I quietly got out of my bed and pulled on my jacket and shoes that were lying on the floor next to my feet. Across the room, I opened the single window that was positioned between my desk and Cassandra’s vanity. Glancing back over my shoulder I made sure that she was sound asleep. I slowly climbed out of the window onto the covered porch, checking to see that my feet did not slip out from under me. After creeping to the edge, I carefully climbed down the lattice. The moment that my feet hit the ground, I was off.

My morning jog began earlier than usual today. That was becoming much too familiar lately. The dark seemed more comforting with each passing day. I was beginning to feel like I was becoming a creature of the night. I instinctively followed the worn earth path that I made over the years through the pine forest that bordered our property until it melted into a small paved path that was a part of the community park.

As I followed the path under a tree canopy, I inhaled a deep breath of the cool morning air mixed with scents of moss and pine. I let the chilled morning mist cover my face and dampen down my dark hair as it fell from the sky and branches above. The five-mile jog through the trees was calming. I do not know why, but the sound of the night creatures always brought me peace. I listened to them now as I made my way thru the trees. Somewhere in the distance, an owl hooted and I savored his midnight symphony.

I reached the end of my path, springing forth from the forest into the small community park. I made my way across the park to the large lake that was the centerpiece to this serene space. My timing was perfect. I narrowed my eyes at the sun that was just breeching the horizon over the calm water, filling the sky with deep hues of red and purple.

Perched on a large rock, I watched the wonder of Mother Nature unfold before my eyes. I shivered once as the morning dew settled around me. After I took several deep breaths, savoring the fresh Georgia air, I realized that this would be the last time that I would have this pleasure. This would be my last morning, no, my last day in the south.

I sat next to the water for the rest of the morning savoring all the sights and sounds of my beloved home. I listened to the birds chirp as they emerged from their nests, shaking off the morning dew. Somewhere around me, I heard a frog croak repeatedly. In the distance, a flock of crows flew in lazy formation in front of my sunrise.

In the distance, I could see the houses of our small suburban city begin to come to life. People were letting their pets out for the day and heading to the street to retrieve their poorly delivered newspapers. Somewhere far in the distance I heard a lawnmower rev up and come to life.

I smiled to myself as I reminisced about the smell of a freshly cut lawn. The smell of grass reminded me of spring in this small town. January was a bit early in the year for mowing, but not for Mr. Howard. If Mr. Howard was mowing his lawn, then all was right with the world. My siblings and I waited for that sound every Friday morning before school. It was our sign that it was going to be a good weekend.

Besides, there are only two and a half seasons in Georgia. Hot, cold, and rainy. So the grass never stops growing here. At least that is what it feels like. I would miss it though. I doubt that there is spring in Oregon.

Once the sun had finally risen above the horizon line I stood up and stretched my legs loosely. I took one last look around at my private getaway, savoring the home I was getting ready to leave. I took one last deep breath. I turned my back to my past, and headed home. It felt good to run.

When I entered the kitchen through the back door, my grandparents were already awake. When I say awake, I mean already being productive. Gran had breakfast made and set out on the small round kitchen table. There was not a wide variety of food, but plenty to construct a traditional breakfast. Since we had to clean out the refrigerator today, everything left in it was now on the table.

I inhaled the sweet smell of fresh pancakes, eggs, and even the tangy scent of the orange juice. Gran was setting down a fresh plate of bacon that had just come off the stove as I closed the door silently behind me. I wrinkled my nose at the smell and at the thought of where it had come from. Gran seemed to know that I was standing behind her because she turned just in time to catch my disapproving expression.

You do not have to eat it honey, but the rest of us like it. Gran said, eyeing my disgusted face.

I could feel the blush rise up my cheeks. She only smiled back. Even though life had been nearly unbearable the past six months, it was always reassuring to see her delicately wrinkled face. Gran was a woman that wore her age well.

She has cool grey eyes, the color of shimmering silver, with matching hair that is always pulled in a bun at the back of her neck. She is not much taller than I am, barely breaching five feet, but she is one of the most impressive people I have ever known. Everybody backs down to Gran.

I looked at the table again, eyeing it suspiciously. The five place settings still threw me for a loop. It seemed that that was not appropriate. We were no longer a family of five, only three. Three newly orphaned teenagers. My siblings and I are nothing more than a bunch of kids who lost their parents to an unfortunate accident. Gran and Gramps had gone out of their way to take care of us since the accident, even though they do not have the means to do so. There is no way that we could ever express our gratitude.

Out for an early jog honey? Gran asked as she handed me a fresh cup of coffee.

I nodded my head at Gran, taking a small sip so that I would not burn my tongue. She made it perfectly, with my favorite flavor of espresso. She always was good at things like that. My mother was the same way. Every morning she got up early with us and made the most delicious coffee for me, my true weakness. It is also my brother’s reason for why I am so short.

Then, from behind me, came a deep rumbling followed by a heavy sigh. I moved quickly out of the way as Gramps came charging through the kitchen from the dining room with an armload of boxes. He dropped them with a thud next to the small doorway, chuckling softly to himself.

Hey Tessa, Gramps reached over and pulled me tightly to his side. Tough night I see?

Gramps is the greatest man I have ever known. He is honest, kind, and completely devoted to his family. Gramps not only acts like a true gentleman, but he looks like one too. His black hair is now streaked with grey, but his jaw is strong and square, and his blue eyes always have a twinkle in them. Gramps even has one of those thin-line mustaches that were so popular in the eighteen sixties. In fact, my grandfather highly resembles Rhett Butler from Gone with the Wind, only a little pudgier.

I could feel my face go red again as Gramps gave me one of his famous breath-stopping hugs. When he finally let me go, I took another sip of coffee as I watched him go over and gave Gran a hug with even more intensity than mine. There was no doubt that he loved that woman with all his being.

That is how I always imagined true love to be. Unconditional and pure, as if no one else in the world existed except for you, and the one you love. For just a moment, I envied them. It was not that long ago that my parents were like that.

I take it that you heard me last night? I sighed, answering Gramps’ question.

Perhaps I am underestimating how bad I have really gotten. Cassandra is apparently not the only one suffering from the terrors that haunt me night after night. Perhaps this move would be good for me. Maybe I will once again get some sleep, and those around me as well.

Yes Contessa. Gran said. She reached over and patted my hand gently. We all understand what you are going through. It was a terrible thing that happened, twice as bad for you than it will ever be for the rest of us. Only time is going heal your wounds.

How much time has to pass before it is long enough? I wondered aloud. It has been months, and nothing has changed. The nightmares only seem to be getting worse. What about Red and Cassie? They are not having as hard of a time with it as I am. Their only problem seems to be me.

My voice was higher than I had anticipated, but Gran did not seem to notice. She simply reached out and wrapped me in a warm hug.

They did not see what you saw Contessa. She said. They have cried their tears and begun to heal. You need to forgive yourself honey. You did everything that you could to save them both.

But Gran, I could have stopped it! I stated, my eyes widening in shock. I was not fast enough. I let her down! I let you all down!

Gran wrapped her arms around me even tighter as I buried my head in her chest. I breathed in deeply, smelling her sweet perfume. I felt Gramps come over and put his strong hands on my back. Their strength was reassuring. It did not change how I felt inside. The guilt was taking me over, and I was dragging the others down with me.

You are stronger than anyone I know Contessa. Gramps reassured me as he stroked my hair lightly. You did more for all of us than anyone could have asked someone so young. None of us could have survived the past six months without you.

I took a step back and nodded my head in agreement. I had definitely paid my penance for my mistake. That knowledge did not lessen my guilt though. Gran squeezed my elbow and went back to scrubbing pots and pans and then putting them into boxes that are to be taken to the local donation center before we leave. Gramps turned toward the loaded table and rubbed his bulbous belly. My grandfather had come face to face with his true weakness, and he did not even put up a fight. If one saying was ever true, it is that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Gramps is living proof of that.

Why don’t you go get your brother and sister Tessa? He asked. I noticed how he went back to my nickname once the serious moment was over. Your Gran has prepared a wonderful breakfast. They had better hurry before I eat it all.

Then Gramps sat down in my father’s old chair. I watched in silence as Gramps tucked his napkin into his shirt at the neck, as if he were a small child. As he began to eat, I could not help myself and I chuckled aloud as I went through the now crowded doorway to the stairs to do as Gramps had asked. I took the stairs slowly, just one at a time, trying to look straight ahead so that I would not see the blood stains in the carpet under my feet. When I reached the top, I paused.

I could not stop my eyes from following the rust colored stripe along the wall to the master bedroom at the end of the hall. The images started to flood back to the surface and I shook my head violently, pushing them back down. I forced myself to take a deep breath. It was hard for me to remember to continue breathing with so much else going on in my mind. I continued down the hall to the first door and knocked loudly to be heard over the music coming from inside.

Go away Cassie! A sharp, irritated voice shouted from the other side. I ignored the voice and opened the door anyways.

Cassie, I am not turning it down anymore. I can barely . . . My brother trailed off as he turned around and saw me.

Rough morning for you too, uh? I asked, entering the room. Red did not reply, he just turned away, and continued to pack his suitcase. "Just so you know Red, you can hear the music down the hall. Are you sure that it is not making you deaf?"

Red gave a sarcastic laugh and turned back to what he was doing. I walked over to my brother and sat on the edge of his unmade bed. As I made my way across the small room, I stopped to pick up random articles of clothing that were strewn about. It was nice that I could sit here silently with Red and he knew how I felt without saying a word. I had folded a small pile when he suddenly reached over and grabbed my hand, squeezing it tightly.

I looked up at his face and saw the soft tear that ran down his cheek. My brother is not a weak man, but he is more tuned to my feelings than any other person is, even my twin sister. I reached up and wiped that lonely tear away. The pain I saw in Red’s deep blue eyes was too much for me to take and I had to turn away. I knew that it was a reflection of my own pain. My suppressed emotions are affecting him the same way that my sleepless nights are affecting Cassandra.

I took my hand back and retrieved the pile of clothes that I had folded from the bed and stood up. I walked around to the other side where Red was standing and handed him the clothes to put in the suitcase. It was a solemn moment. There are so many unspoken words between us, but neither of us cared about that. We both knew what the other was thinking. Things were about to change drastically, we needed to support each other wholeheartedly. But since neither of us is the openly emotional kind, those words will remain unspoken.

You are almost out of space there Red. Why don’t you go down and get some of the boxes that Gramps bought. I told my brother as I tousled his hair and started to leave the room.

When I reached the door, I turned back with a sly smile.

By the way, breakfast is ready, I said. Gramps has already started. Red looked up, startled, and bolted for the door.

What! Man Tessa . . . why do you . . . erg! I jumped out of his way as he came hurdling through the door. I watched as Red ran down the stairs, two at a time.

I went to the second door down the hall on the opposite side. Again, I struggled to ignore the rusty stain that crossed over my bedroom door. I opened it quickly and closed it loudly behind me. Cassandra was sitting at her vanity and she jumped at the sound. I heard her curse under her breath. She had barely missed stabbing out her eye with the eyeliner pencil that she held up to her face.

Tessa what is wrong with you? I could have lost an eye! She complained in that butterfly voice that annoyed me so much.

You would have looked so much better that way. I said jokingly. Cassandra glared at me from beneath thick lashes, not appreciating my humor. I knew that you would be fine. I know everything, remember?

I heard Cassandra sigh as she finally finished applying her ‘face’ and stand up from the small table. She stood there for a moment, looking at herself in the mirror. Very slowly, she raised her arms and pulled up that beautiful curly blond hair of hers ties it at the back of her neck.

She looked so much like our mother. I turned away from her towards my side of our room.

Cassandra continued to fuss with her clothes and hair. She was always upset that I did not take as much care with my appearance. My usual attire of faded jeans and t-shirt was a disgrace to her reputation. Not that it bothered me. Cassandra and I may be twins, but we are complete opposites in every way, looks and personalities included.

I am sorry Cassie. I threw my jacket down on my bed and kicked off my shoes. It . . . I just. Ugh, I do not have an excuse. I cannot control it, and neither can you. So please stop being angry with me.

When will breakfast be ready? Cassandra asked, ignoring my apology.

The boys have already started.

What! Why did you wait so long to tell me? She dropped her hands and headed for the door.

What is the deal with this family and food? I thought aloud.

It is not every day that we get Gran’s cooking. Cassandra replied.

We do now.

Cassandra was halfway out the door when she paused. She stuck her head back in the room, and looked at me intently. The sadness that was always in her sparkling blue eyes finally reached out to her face. I had to struggle to keep my face neutral. If I would have showed any emotion, I believe that my sister might have broken down before me. And right now, we need to be strong. This move is harder for Cassandra than the rest of us.

"For what it is worth Tessa I am not mad at you. I just miss her. She explained. I am just so mad at myself that I could not change his mind."

Neither of us could Cassie. I consoled her. He is the one person that neither of us could infiltrate. I failed worse than you did. If anyone is to blame, it is me.

I could never blame you Tessa. Cassandra would never have any idea how good those words made me feel. If it were not for you, I never could have gotten through these past few months. Neither could Red. I am sorry if I take my anger out on you. I guess that I know that you will not take it personally.

I won’t. I agreed with a smile. I know that you would do the same for me.

I do, every damn night. I winced at her words, but she was right.

Touché. I replied as my sister laughed and turned away.

As Cassandra left the room, I quickly changed into the clothes that I left unpacked. My favorite faded jeans, and a Led Zeppelin tee shirt, it is moving day after all. Cassandra would be upset that I was so far ahead with my packing. It always did bother her that I was so efficient. This time I had an excuse, I had to keep busy. Now was not the time for idle hands.

While I was changing, I could hear the excited voices of my family below as they engulfed themselves in gourmet breakfast set out before them. I have to admit that I am looking forward to Gran’s breakfast as well. I quite enjoy her pancakes. My mouth started to water as I thought of them. Then I hurried down the stairs, just as my siblings had. It is going to be a long day. I need to keep my strength up.

*     *     *

There we go! Gramps grunted as he closed the door of the moving van forcefully.

We all stood back a moment and sighed. We all had different reasons, but I was sure that we were all glad to be leaving this house and the gruesome reminders on every wall.

I put my arm around my brother’s thin waist and felt the heaviness in his heart weighing on his heart. I rested my cheek on his shoulder and my mind was flooded with visions of his future. I saw Red laughing and roughhousing around in the snow. He finally looked happy again. That was such a relief after all that I had put him thru.

It is going to get better Red. I said, remembering the current sadness that he felt. Trust me.

I walked back to my shiny black Trans Am and loaded the last couple of trash bags of clothing into the trunk. Red loaded the three small suitcases that belonged to us into the small back seat. He was trying to keep his interest hidden. I knew it was only a matter of seconds before his curiosity won. Just as I expected, Red turned back to me with wide eyes.

What did you ‘see’ Tessa? He asked.

Red is the only one that is not disturbed by my visions. In fact, unlike our sister, Red is always enthusiastic about what I see. He is constantly using me as his own crystal ball. But that does not bother me. He is so supportive. I always feel as if he is my own personal cheerleader.

Happiness, I gave my brother a single word response as I slammed the trunk closed.

What about you and Cassie? I laughed and tousled his hair.

He swatted my hand away and tried to fix his short golden curls. Those curls . . . my smile softened as the memories came back.

Red and Cassandra had the same blond curls and deep, piercing blue eyes as our mother. They also had her beautifully tanned skin and rosy cheeks. As similar as they both are to her, Cassandra is the worse. She is a perfect carbon copy of our mother, only shorter, until this past year that is.

Cassandra had a growth spurt, soaring above me and reaching five foot four. Red, however, at his young age is taller than all of us. That is how he got his nickname, Big Red. He was born as Freddie Jonathan Rose, but that was never as popular.

I, of course, resemble our father. When everyone else was growing, I remained petite as always. I stand barely five feet tall, and am about as thick as a stick. My dark hair, a deep black and crimson wave that hangs down past my waist, was the same as my father’s, only longer. My emerald green eyes are more intense than his ever were, but they are the same almond shape. Our father used to joke that if he ever wondered what it was like to be a rock star, all he had to do was look at me.

Red looked down at me as if he was still waiting for an answer. I walked back towards the house quietly with him following close behind me. I shook my head in front of him and I knew that he finally got the point then. It is not my place to tell Red what was in store for Cassandra. He is lucky that I reveal so much to him about his own path.

I know that Red would not tell Cassandra. That was the problem. He would tease her with the knowledge that he had dirt. But he would never give it up. That was one of the reasons that he was such a good person. The boy knew how to keep a secret.

We all gathered in the kitchen one last time while Gramps did a final walk through of the house, checking every closet and every room for anything left behind. Everything that belonged to Red, Cassandra, and me had been packed into the moving van headed for Oregon. The rest of our parent’s possessions were being donated, all the furniture and decorative knickknacks.

Of course, nobody else would go into the master bedroom since that night. The police did, and the lawyers of course. And I did, but only once. I went in only one painful time to retrieve any valuables before the state got them, as the lawyers told us to. I was the only one strong enough to face the memories.

It was my duty. It was my fault that we had to leave.

I lightly fingered my mother’s necklace that was now around my neck. The one she used to wear every day. I never saw her without it. I remember finding it, a tiny glimmer under the bed next to where the bloody carpet had been removed. We almost missed it, that holy treasure.

When Cassandra saw me with our mother’s necklace for the first time, she started to protest. It was not fair, why did I get mom’s favorite piece of jewelry? Later she apologized to me about it. That was really out of character for her.

I guess that death changes people.

You need it more than I do. She told me. Hopefully it will bring you peace, like it did for her.

Because you were too late to save her. She did not have to say it aloud. I knew that she was thinking it. They all were.

I tightly grasped that cross now. I would never be late again! I would always be sure of that. My gift would allow me to be sure of that. I know that Cassandra wants us to be normal in Oregon. What was she, crazy? We are not normal in any sense. As long as I have the power to protect people, I will use it.

Okay. Gramps said as he came into the room where we were waiting. We are all packed and ready to go. We need to figure out our driving partners. The moving company has someone driving the van, but who is riding with Contessa, and who is with Cassandra?

I’m with Tessa! I call shotgun! Red cried back behind himself.

He was already going to stake his claim. The rest of us looked around at each other.

It is because you have the cool car. Cassandra said mockingly.

I know that she is upset because she is stuck with our mother’s old Suburban. At least she finally has a car. For the last year, she has been complaining because I saved up and bought my dream car before we were even sixteen.

I shrugged my shoulders and follower my brother outside. My sister reached for her purse and followed quietly behind me. Cassandra knew that she would be stuck with Gran and Gramps simply because she had a bigger vehicle.

We stood in the driveway and watched as Gramps locked the front door for the last time. It was a painful moment. We have all spent our entire lives in that house. Cassandra and I have been in that same room since the day that we were born. We had pretended to help our mother paint Red’s nursery when he was on his way. Those memories were going through all of our minds at that time.

I know that Red is glad that the fighting is over. Of course, this was not the way that he wanted it to stop. Cassandra was thinking about all of the friends, more specifically the boyfriends, which she would be leaving behind. We all knew this because, unfortunately, she was thinking aloud.

My thoughts were similar to their own. I was relieved that the violence had ended, but was it worth the cost. I know that we would all be fine in Oregon. It was a big change from Georgia. We were going from the sunny south to one of the coldest, darkest states in the continental United States.

At least now, we would not have to worry about being embarrassed to have people come over to the house any more.

As much as out sister wanted a normal life, we would never have one here. Perhaps she was right though. Maybe Oregon is our chance to start over. We could have real friends that would not embarrassed by us. But there will always be secrets.

With a heavy heart, we all climbed into our designated vehicles. I followed the Suburban down the road quietly. As we came to the final turn, I took one last look at our beloved home from my review mirror. It was if I could see her standing in the front yard, waving goodbye. Just like, she did on our first day of kindergarten. Just like, she did on the first morning that I drove to school. And just like, she did on the morning that we left on the day that she died.

What are you waiting for Tessa? Red asked me, tearing me back to reality. You are going to lose Cassie.

I shook the image out of my head and finally made the turn. I clicked on the radio to my favorite rock station and rolled down the windows.

We might as well enjoy it while we can. I said to Red. It will be gone before you know it.

The drive from Georgia to Oregon was an extremely long one. Especially, since we had to stop every couple of hours for someone to go to the bathroom and to refuel the vehicles. Of course, the frequent stops gave Gramps and Red a chance to change cars on a regular basis. Neither of them wanted to admit that Cassandra was driving them both crazy.

When we finally pulled into Gran and Gramps’ driveway, it was as if a great weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I knew even as we drove down the deserted highway in the dead of night that a small place like this is just what we need to heal our hearts. I knew that Red and Cassandra would be happy. It might take them a couple of weeks to settle in, but it would eventually happen.

Well let’s get some real shut-eye tonight. Gramps said as we got out of the vehicles. We will start unpacking tomorrow.

We followed him into the house, wondering where we were going to stay. It was a very small one-story house, just two bedrooms. The only other rooms in the entire house were a small kitchen, living room, and small laundry room. There was a lot of property, perhaps they would put on an addition. Then again, I would be leaving for college in a year. I am sure that Cassandra will not be far behind.

Gramps led Red to the living room where he pulled out the sofa bed for him to use. He said that it was just for the night. I had a hard time believing that. Red graciously settled in without a single complaint. Perhaps he was just so exhausted that he did not care at this point.

Is this where we are going to be staying from now on Gran? Cassandra asked shyly, quickly eyeing the single bed in the small guestroom where Gran led us.

No dear, this will be Red’s room. Gramps and I have a surprise for you two. Gran laughed and shook her head. But we will show you tomorrow.

Gran pulled down the cover of the large heavy wood-canopied bed for us. She kissed both of us on the cheek before she left the room. Cassandra and I stood there in silence as we listened to Gran’s footsteps disappear down the hall.

When all was quiet, Cassandra set her bag on the edge of the bed and started to pull out her pajamas. I walked to the other side of the bed and set down my suitcase as well. Instead of changing like my sister, I pulled out my poor excuse for a winter jacket. It was just a heavy hooded fleece. I pulled it on over my thin coat that I was already wearing.

Where are you going at this hour? Cassandra asked me. You can go sightseeing tomorrow. It is after midnight now.

I am going out for a jog. I told her as I opened the bedroom door. I have been cramped in a car for so long. I need to use my legs before I forget how to.

Well take a flashlight with you. She warned me. And try to stay out of the woods. You do not know what kinds of animals are around here.

I simply nodded my head as I shut the door behind myself. As I headed out of the house, I stopped in the kitchen and picked up a flashlight out of one of the drawers. I said goodbye to my brother who ignored me as he flipped through the television channels. He was having a hard time finding something worth watching at this hour. As I reached over to turn off the light Red’s head suddenly popped up over the side of the sleeper sofa.

Tessa, I looked down at him and waited for him to continue. You said that everything was going to be fine. So do not worry about us anymore. Try to find some happiness yourself.

He immediately popped back down out of my sight, but I knew that he was still listening to me.

Stepping outside for the first time I realized how much colder the air was here in Oregon. I shivered and for the first time in my life, I pulled up the hood of my jacket. I would definitely have to invest in warmer jogging gear. I could possibly use a hat, but most definitely a pair of gloves.

I also listened to Cassandra for the first time. I turned on the flashlight and started down the driveway, heading for the road. It was a nice night out. There was no rain or snow, but the frozen air made my lungs burn. I was like breathing ice crystals. I tried to inhale through my nose to limit the burn in my throat.

I was following Tohl Avenue toward Nehalem Bay. I knew that the road did not lead straight to the Bay, but a little detour would not stop me. I kept to the side of the road and away from the houses. Soon the houses were spaced further apart and the woodsy scenery began to become more familiar.

I was only a few miles from the house, almost to the end of the road, when I heard a car flying towards me. There was only a split second for me to wonder where it came from before I was forced to turn off the flashlight so that I would not be spotted. There was a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. This vehicle had to have come out of the trees, because there was only a mile of road left in front of me before it dead-ended in the forest. Without thinking, I quickly leapt out off the road into the trees and watched closely as the enormous jeep passed.

Inside of the vehicle, I saw the most gorgeous man in the passenger seat. It seemed as if he was staring right back. It was as if he could see me hiding in the dark. In an instant, they were gone, traveling at well over a hundred miles an hour. It all happened so fast that I did not even have a chance to see the driver or the passengers in the back seat. Although I had a feeling that they could all see me for some reason.

The Jeep’s taillights quickly sped out of sight. I listened to its wild passengers howling like wild animals and its roaring engine for a few more miles until it finally faded into the distance. They must be close to reaching the one-oh-one. I silently prayed that they would not turn back.

I suddenly felt sick to my stomach as their wild screams faded into memory. I no longer had any desire to continue my jog in the direction that I was previously heading. I felt like a piece of meat on the side of the road. I had a completely new respect for the dear caught in headlights. Something in me wondered if they really wished that I were a dear.

Instead of standing there out in the open, I switched back on the flashlight and headed back to my new home. I climbed silently into the bed next to Cassandra so that I would not wake her. Gramps was right, after months of restless nights in the house where our parents died, it was good to get a real night’s sleep. I laid in the dark until the sounds of Cassandra’s steady breathing finally allowed me to drift off to sleep.

That night I had the most beautiful dream. In my dream was the most alluring man that I have ever seen. He was standing with me in a small clearing in the dead of winter. Of this, I was sure by all of the snow that covered the ground and surrounding trees. It gave the clearing a peaceful feeling. The blanket of white held snugly to the branches. The moon glimmered off the frosty surface, refracting little rainbows across the air.

His skin was so smooth. There was not a single blemish on his face. His shaggy hair was jet black and it moved freely as a slight breeze blew through the clearing, stirring up the snow temporarily. The way that dark hair framed his face made him look so dark and menacing.

This man reminded me of one of Michelangelo’s dark angels.

However, his eyes soothed those dreadful feelings. They were so beautiful. His eyes were such a bright amber color that seemed to be made out of liquid gold. It seemed as if they were shining, even though he was standing in the shadows. Those eyes melted my insides.

If I was ever to be attracted to a man, this was the one.

The expression on his face was a mixture of emotions. His eyes were full of love and sadness. His face, however, was a different story. It was full of malice. His lips were turned up in a snarl, and his eyebrows bunched together, as if he were trying to protect me from some internal monster.

I reached out to him, to sooth away his worries. Somehow, I knew that he would never hurt me. In a flash, he was across the field, holding tightly to my arm. For a moment I was in shock, I do not remember seeing him move. He just appeared. Perhaps that was just the dream. There was a hazy fog over everything.

You do not want to do that. He said. His voice was like a deep bell that echoed through my entire being.

It hurt my heart to see him in so much pain. I could not just walk away. I had to help. The dream guy gently took my other hand in his. His fingers were colder that ice. I suddenly understood why his face was so flawless. There really was a monster inside of him. I do not know why I thought that. Even though some part of me knew that he was right, that I was in danger, I was still unable to pull myself away.

I squeezed his hand tightly trying to bring him some warmth and strength. I knew that I would not hurt him. I would be lucky if he even felt the tightening of my grip. He lifted my hand to his lips and pressed them gently together. I felt his sharp teeth press against the back of my hand through his lips.

My breath caught in my throat and my heart started to beat so fast that I was sure that it would burst right out of my chest. If I were awake, it just might have. I was not sure if I felt this way because I was head-over-heels with this vision, or if I was afraid for my life.

He moved closer to me so that our bodies were almost touching. Even though he was so cold, I swear that I could feel heat radiating off his body, warming me thoroughly. His evil smile widened, exposing brilliant white teeth to me. He was so tall, towering over me as if I were a small child. Very slowly, this mystery man brought his face closer and closer to me, until his forehead was resting against mine.

Suddenly, I realized that I was holding my breath. I inhaled deeply, savoring his smell. It was a sweet mixture of fresh winter wind, moss, and pine. I know that it sounds weird, but it was pleasant. He smelled like . . . home.

That was strange because I did not even know where home was any more. We simply stood like that, close together, hands intertwined for I do not know how long. I did not want to let that moment go.

Stay away. He whispered into my ear. I will only bring you more pain.

His lips brushed my forehead as he slowly backed away into the trees from whence he had appeared. As he left, I tried to reach for him. Even though we have just met, I was not ready for him to go. When I tried to chase after him, my legs would not move. My heart started to race again as I frantically tried to catch him. I wanted to call after him, but I suddenly realized that I did not know his name. There was nothing for me to do but to stand here and wait for him to return.

As the light faded around me, the snow began to fall in the now practically empty clearing in which I stood. I looked down and saw that there were no footprints in the snow. There was no evidence that my beautiful vision had ever been there. I stood in the clearing alone, letting the snow fall on me, covering my dark hair with tiny white flakes.

Then there was a break in the silence. I could hear my name being called out all around me. It was him! I savored the sound of his voice. I would never forget it.

Suddenly as it had started, the voice changed. I tried to push it away. I did not want this beautiful dream to end.

Maybe he would come back. I wanted him. No, I needed him to. I think I just fell in love with a vision, how cliché.

Chapter 2

I slowly reached up and wrapped my hands around Cassandra’s neck playfully. She giggled and swatted them away effortlessly. Her attitude was a sign that this would be a good day. It was refreshing to know that I would not be fighting with my sister.

Wake up sleepy head! Cassandra said as she pulled the covers off me.

I moaned loudly and curled into a tight ball. Turning my head away I kept my eyes tightly shut. I tried to hold onto my dream beau for as long as I possibly could. It was such a nice reprieve after so many months of nightmares.

Wow that must have been quite a dream. You are always the first one awake. Cassandra jumped up and grabbed some clothes out of her suitcase.

She reached for my feet as she ran out of the room to get to the bathroom down that hall before Red did. I slowly stretched out on the bed and held onto my dream for just a moment more. I wanted to be sure that I could recall every detail.

Cassandra was right though. I was always up before everyone else. A day where I slept in was usually a bad omen, but not today. This is my second chance at a happy life, so why not start my days a new way.

Eventually I climbed out of the bed and waited for my turn for the shower. While waiting, I found myself rummaging through my suitcase looking for something to wear. There on the bottom, I spotted my journal hidden among socks and unfolded underwear. I quickly pulled it out from beneath everything else.

This journal is the collection of my visions for the past two and a half years. It holds secret information about my friends and people who are not my friends. There are visions of my family that have yet to come to fruition. And there are stories of pasts of people I do not even know. Now, I had one more thing to add to this book of secrets. A dream that I prayed would come true.

I began to write down every single detail of my dream. A dream that was so good, it was not one to be forgotten. I recalled everything from the look on my mystery man’s face to the way that he smelled. Even the mysterious surroundings were etched into my mind like a priceless painting.

I wanted to make sure that I never lose this person. Even if I had to search for him for the rest of my life, and all of the next I would never want anyone else. Somehow I knew that, and I was not sure why.

The tiny house came to life quickly. With three teenagers and only one bathroom to share, the going was slow, and the hot water ran out just as fast. I was left with ice-cold water and frozen tresses for hair. It was the fastest shower that I have ever taken, but I was still chilled to the bone.

Once clean, we all gathered in the small kitchen to eat breakfast. The table had been pushed into a corner to allow enough space to walk through the room. The collection of chairs was mix-matched together. It looked as if every chair in the house was gathered in this small space in order for us to be able to eat together.

I recognized the small wood chair from the guestroom, as well as the chairs from the patio. They looked so out of place in this tidy home. They were old and faded with dark strips of duct tape holding in the stuffing.

My heart dropped as I remembered how much my siblings and I were intruding on our grandparent’s lives. Gran and Gramps struggled to keep themselves financially afloat every day, how were they supposed to support three more mouths. I know that they did get some money from our mother’s life insurance policy, but they had insisted on putting most of it away for our college funds.

Breakfast was a quick event as well, which added more strain to our already confused morning. Gran did not go all out with the cooking as she typically does. It was a simple meal of eggs, toast, and coffee. We ate in silence, each one of us consumed with our personal thoughts. We were all just trying to adjust.

As Gramps was polishing off his coffee, the single phone hanging from the kitchen wall rang loudly. Gramps jumped up to get it before the rest of us had a chance to react. He talked in a hushed tone for less than a minute and hung up quickly. He turned back to us at the table with a crooked old grin on his face.

Is everyone done eating now? Gramps asked.

Sure, why not. Red answered.

We nodded in agreement all at once. None of us was really hungry anyways. Gramps gestured for us to follow him. We each got up from the table and followed him down the single hallway to the attic door. It was one of those old-fashioned attics. This is the kind of attic door that typically hidden in the back of a closet. However, this door was visible now. But it still is a secret because it blends in with the wood paneling on the walls.

Gramps opened the small door slowly and led the way, gesturing for us to follow him yet again. One-by-one we made our way up the narrow stairs into the attic. An air of anticipation filled the already crowded staircase, making the space feel claustrophobic. However, when we reached the top we found a great surprise.

The entire attic was under construction. There were new wood beams and full partitions dividing the attic into several sections. I could sense the smile spreading across Cassandra’s face mirrored on my own. I could not believe that they were doing this for us. Gran and Gramps were turning the attic into a space just for Cassandra and me.

I found myself wondering when they started this. Our grandparents have been in Atlanta with us for the last six months for the trial and custody hearings. Of course, Gramps did visit his home every few weeks. Perhaps he was having workers come over on the weekends that he went home.

The attic space spanned the length of the entire house, and was tall enough to allow a full-grown man to stand up completely. While the ceiling met the floor at the front of the house, the back wall was twice as high. So the middle of the attic, where the stairs were, was the standard eight foot height. This allowed us to stand up easily in our new rooms and for windows to the outside, however sparse they were. There was a single window on either end of the extended wall.

There were two large spaces sectioned off at each end of the attic. That allowed one in each bedroom. What I was surprised to see was that the space was divided into more than just two sections. Between the two bedrooms was space for a new bathroom and two separate closets. It really was a great surprise, but there was only one problem.

It is not finished. Cassandra piped up before I could stop her.

Cassandra was right though, never mind how rudely she made her point. The ceiling had been completed, with new insulation and freshly painted gypsum. The walls and floor were another story. There was simple beams separating the two rooms and closets, but the bathroom was completely walled in. I could only guess that this meant that the plumbing was complete. Then again, the tub was sitting in the middle of one of the bedrooms, along with a stack of lighting fixtures.

In the other bedroom was a stack of construction supplies ranging from tools, to piles of sheet-rock, gallons of paint, and even carpeting and floor tiles. There was even a stack of new doors and two brand new windows to be installed into the new attic suite. The insulation was already up. Hopefully it would not be much longer before the rest of the walls were in place.

I know. Gramps stated. I have plenty of friends coming over to help finish it today.

He had about half the men in town, that is. Gran offered.

How are you doing all of this? I asked shyly.

The Crow family and some other guys from the Mill are going to help finish putting up the walls and install the bathroom fixtures. Gramps continued. It should all be finished tomorrow before you start school on Monday.

Cassandra screeched in delight and I jumped at the sound. It was immediately followed by the sound of the doorbell downstairs. Red raced back downstairs to answer the door, as a cover. The rest of us knew that it was the perfect excuse to escape the emotional moment that was about to come.

Cassandra threw her arms around Gran and Gramps and kissed their wrinkled cheeks eagerly. She gave them delighted thanks over her shoulder as she raced down the narrow stairs to join Red.

How are you affording all of this? I asked them when we were alone.

We had money saved up Tessa dear. My Gran replied.

I do not want you two to throw everything away on us. I pleaded with her.

Do not worry about it Tessa. Gramps said as he threw his arm around my shoulder. It is only money, and we cannot take it with us.

I narrowed my eyes at him, but I did not argue further. It was not my place to tell them what to do. They were grown adults after all. All I could do was to find a way to pitch in the best I could. I reached out, gave Gran and Gramps my own emotional thanks, and went to join my siblings.

I was actually excited to get the work started. It was good to keep my hands and mind busy. I was also excited to see Flint and Giselle Crow. We had all been close as kids when we would visit Oregon during our summer vacations.

I went back downstairs and stepped into an ocean of men. The tiny house was crowded wall-to-wall with about fifty plus large men, some older, and some not. It seemed that everyone arrived at once. I guess Gramps was pulling all his favors for this one. I smiled warmly and said my hellos to everyone as I wandered through the mass of people as I walked through the house looking for Red and Cassandra.

Guess who? I heard a low husky voice try to whisper in my ear as I felt warm hands cover my eyes.

I did not need to guess though, the