Crossroad Wings: The Revelation

By Esmeralda Oropeza

What is the result of a romance between an angel and a demon? In Samira’s case, her being born. And if things weren’t complicated enough, she has an angel and a demon as guardians that were appointed to her by her now dead parents. With senior year hanging above her head and college applications due, Samira is trying to be as normal as possible while questions and threats seem to follow her like a shadow. Can she succeed in vanquishing all her threats, or is her being half-angel and half-demon going to take its toll on her? How long can she remain going unnoticed while angels and demons are hunting her down because she shouldn’t exist? With the help of her guardians that are constantly at each other’s throats, Samira is going to have to find the strength within her to survive each day. Can she do it? Will she be able to take on her new role in life and learn to fight for her life? In Samira’s case, she has no choice but to. As if her senior year in high school wasn’t stressful enough.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Mar 1, 2021
• ISBN: 9781662409615

Book preview

Chapter 1

Come on, Bandit! Let it go! Samira huffed in annoyance, giving another hard tug to her backpack. I’m going to be late for school! Come on!

She pulled again on her backpack, but her dog wouldn’t let it go as he growled playfully. Tail wagging happily, the large black dog used one of his paws to swat at her hand. His jaws were clamped down tightly on her bag. Each pull he gave forced Samira forward a couple of steps. Why did her dog always take her things? Bandit’s black eyes were fixed on Samira’s gold ones. Samira tried to pull her backpack over the dog’s head with no luck. She was going to be late again because of him. Bandit seemed much stronger than she was at the moment and she gave another annoyed huff. Samira tugged some more, but the huge dog wouldn’t budge. Seeing no other way, Samira tried to force his jaws open with her fingers. Being very careful to not get bitten by accident, Samira managed to force open her dog’s mouth by gently covering his nose with her palm and forcing his jaw to open. Taking the quick opportunity when Bandit’s bite loosened, Samira quickly pulled her backpack out of her dog’s jaws. Her golden eyes gleamed in triumph as she cheered and quickly put on her backpack before her dog could get it again. Bandit barked playfully, running around her and gently nudging her with his wet nose. Smiling at her pet, Samira knelt down on one knee and gave her dog a final hug before leaving.

I’ll see you after school, Bandit. Samira whispered to her dog. Be good and stay off the furniture. You know Dad doesn’t like it.

Bandit barked playfully in response as Samira got up and fixed her black hair. Catching sight of her gold bracelet, she tugged at it out of habit. Nothing. She gave a tired sigh and wondered if it would ever come off. She was never fond of the gold bracelet, but for as long as she could remember, she had never been able to take it off. Nothing did the trick, not soaps, lotions, oils, or water. Even her father’s saw in the garage was no match for her bracelet. It didn’t even leave a scratch. Preparing to leave, Samira headed to her bathroom to close the door. She didn’t want Bandit drinking out of her toilet. Even though she’d never seen him do it, she still had to be careful. Dogs were known to do that.

Samira kissed Bandit’s head, grabbed the rest of her things, and headed out of her house. The morning was cold as she walked to school, passing the familiar houses and the same cars parked along the street. Quickening her steps, she saw her best friend waiting for her by the Stop sign near her house. Annabel was tall and slender, with blonde hair and blue eyes. Her white button-up blouse seemed to glow. Annabel wore her favorite faded jeans and pink Chucks. Samira and Annabel have been best friends for as long as she could remember, practically joined at the hip.

About time you made it. I thought you drowned in your bathtub. Annabel joked. Was about to call a rescue party to go find you.

Samira laughed. The water was warm. I didn’t want to get out.

Sure it was. Annabel teased before her eyes grew wide with disgust. Yuck, Samira, you got dog hair on your shirt!

Samira looked down to find Annabel wiping it off. Thanks.

Annabel gritted her teeth, anger flashing across her blue eyes. Honestly, Mira, I don’t see how you put up with that mutt. Why do you let him sleep in your room at night? You know he belongs outside. If I were you, I’d throw him out on the street already.

Samira laughed. Bandit isn’t going anywhere. What is it with you and my dog anyway? For as long as I can remember, you’ve never liked him.

He doesn’t like me!

You could try to be nice and pet him once in a while. You always shoo him away when he gets near us.

Ugh, I shoo him because he’s always growling at me.

Samira nodded at the fact. Yeah, he does tend to do that to only you.

You see? He’s a rabid animal, and he’s huge. I think he might be part bear or some sort of ancient monster.

Oh, stop. You’ve just got to give him a chance. He’s really sweet, and I know you two will become good friends one day. You’ll see.

Doubt it. And why do you even allow it in the bathroom with you when you shower? Keep him out. Don’t let him see you! That’s just wrong!

Samira laughed. He’s a dog, Annabel. He doesn’t know any better. It’s not like he’s showering in there with me. He just sleeps by the door. You know how lazy he can get.

Annabel rolled her eyes and led the way. Samira’s mind wandered to Bandit and the day she found him as a puppy. It took a while to convince her parents to keep him, but they did eventually give in, a decision that Annabel wasn’t too fond of for some reason. It wasn’t like Annabel didn’t like animals. In fact, she loved them. She just didn’t like Bandit. Samira never understood her friend’s hatred toward her dog. Annabel never gave up the opportunity to bash Bandit.

Samira took in a deep breath, feeling the cold morning air relax her. While passing a parked car, a sudden chill ran up Samira’s spine. Her body instantly tensed up and stopped midstep. Warning bells went off in her head as her breath hitched up to her throat. Looking around her community, nothing was out of place. The same kids that walked to school in groups of three and four were all there. All the houses and their manicured lawns didn’t look any different than any other morning. Samira’s heart raced in her chest as a sense of panic filled her, making her want to run. But she couldn’t find anything wrong. Nothing was near her that was even remotely threatening. No loose rabid dog or person with a gun or plane falling from the sky. So why the sudden fear?

Mira? Are you okay? Annabel asked with concern. You’re pale. Are you getting sick or something?

Samira shook the feeling out of her head. Uh, yeah. I’m fine. I just got this weird feeling just now when I was thinking about Bandit.

You see! The wretched dog is even bad for your health. You should get rid of him now. Not sure what you’re waiting for but I can help if you want.

Samira threw Annabel a peeved stare. For the millionth time, no. I’m not getting rid of Bandit. I happen to like my dog, thank you very much.

Annabel rolled her eyes. Believe me, there is nothing to like about him.

It didn’t take them long to reach their first period class. The teacher was already at her desk. Her gray hair was in a bun, and she wore her normal sweater vest and round glasses that made her small eyes look bigger. Samira and Annabel took their usual seats toward the back of the class.

I hope Mrs. Figueroa doesn’t give us a pop quiz. I didn’t study last night. Annabel whispered to Samira. I didn’t even understand yesterday’s material.

Before Samira could respond, time seemed to stop. Heart no longer beating, she watched her all-time crush walk into class. He was wearing jeans, a dark-brown shirt, and black Vans. He looked like a masterpiece. His brown hair was slicked back, and his hazel eyes met hers, causing Samira’s breath to catch in her throat. With her ears burning, her mouth went dry while her heart melted like butter on toast. It just had to be illegal to be that good-looking.

Samira? Annabel’s voice rang in her ears, bringing her back to reality. Hello? Earth to Samira. Can you hear me?

What? I mean… Samira blushed, seeing Annabel’s smirk grow larger. Did you say something?

Are you staring at—

Shhh! Samira interrupted, attempting to cover her friend’s mouth. Don’t say his name! He’ll hear you!

Rolling her eyes, Annabel couldn’t help but laugh to herself. Her friend was too much sometimes. Annabel was pretty sure that the whole school knew about her friend’s crush on the guy. So why hide it any further? She always made it so obvious.

Honestly, Mira, why don’t you go talk to him? Annabel asked. You’ve liked him since junior high. Just tell him how you feel. I’m pretty sure he likes you too.

Samira’s eyes widened in shock. What exactly are you smoking? Adrian is the captain of the football team. By school law, he has to be with a cheerleader.

School law?

Yes! It’s the way of the universe. Besides, we’re not even of the same species.

Annabel bit back a laugh. Mira, listen to me. Just go talk to him. Tell him hello or talk about how he’s a good quarterback. What’s the worst that could happen?

He could hear me.

Pressing her lips together, Annabel said nothing as she shook her head. Her best friend could be so stubborn sometimes it amazed Annabel how difficult she could get. Last bell ringing, Mrs. Figueroa got up from her desk and shut the door, allowing no further escape from her classroom.

All right, class. Mrs. Figueroa announced. Take out your Civics and Econ books and turn to page 64. I want all you to pair up in twos for this exercise.

Taking out their things, Samira gave one last glance at Adrian who sat in the front with another fellow football player. What she would give to be able to say three words to him or at least be in his presence without looking like a total fool. Senior year was supposed to be epic, fun, and adventurous.

A time to remember.

And no matter what, Samira was determined to make it an unforgettable year, a year where all her hopes and dreams would come true. She was going to enjoy her time before going off to a university. She still didn’t know what she wanted to do or study, but she would soon figure it out. Her school always held small college workshops, educating the students on what kind of courses were being held. Maybe one of those workshops would spark her interest. Many students were sure about what they wanted to do after those workshops. She shouldn’t be any different. The exercise the class had to do was pretty easy, making the time practically fly by. Before anyone could tell, the bell rang, allowing all the students to shuffle out with their things. Heading to second period, the air filled with laughter and gibberish while Annabel stretched and yawned loudly.

Samira! Annabel! A cheerful voice called out from behind them. Wait up!

Both turning, Rossy ran up to them, bright eyes lighting up her features. Dressed in her red and black cheerleading uniform, matching scrunchies helplessly restrained her pigtails. Smiling from ear to ear, her bubbly and contagious giggle filled Samira’s ears. Thin and small, she resembled a pixie as a red glittery heart rested on her left cheek. Warm features and full lips, Rossy had a lot of guys wanting her affection. Everywhere she went, guys couldn’t help but gawk at the cute cheerleader.

Did you guys hear the news? Rossy asked, skipping to a stop.

Cheerleading tryouts in the gym? Annabel asked.

Giving her a droll stare, Rossy rolled her eyes. No. Tryouts were last week. And I’m still upset with you two for not trying out. But that’s not important. Guess who is now dating Jimmy Diaz? Guess! Guess!

What? Really? Samira asked excitedly. "The Jimmy Diaz? The school’s receiving end?"

Rossy nodded, smiling wide. Is there anyone else?

No way!

Way!

All three girls began to scream, jumping up and down as Samira and Annabel embraced Rossy. Samira was so happy for her since she knew Rossy liked him since the seventh grade. The thought of Rossy’s relation with Jimmy began to give Samira hope. If Rossy could end up with the guy of her dreams, why couldn’t she?

Her friend was starting to prove it to be possible after all.

While Annabel began asking questions, another chill ran up Samira’s spine, freezing her to her bones. Heart stopping, her breath caught in her throat once again as she slowly turned. That feeling again. That fear that gripped at her throat. It was back and a bit stronger than ever. Heart ready to pop from her chest, Samira tried to remain calm. Her friends would clearly see if she panicked. Putting on a fake smile so she wouldn’t raise suspicion, Samira allowed her eyes to wander. Standing far along the hallway, a young guy stood in the middle of a sea of students. His electric-blue eyes locked with hers, features showing no emotion. His blonde hair seemed to glow in the sun as no student seemed to notice the stranger. Unmoving, Samira knew he wasn’t a student, and he was far too young to be a teacher.

Mira? Annabel’s voice said in her ear. Are you okay? What’s wrong?

Snapping back to reality, Samira ripped her gaze from the blonde stranger. She met Annabel’s and Rossy’s eyes, which were full of concern. A wheezed sound escaped Samira’s mouth, not realizing that she was even holding her breath.

Are you okay? Rossy asked. You just completely went pale on us.

Um… yeah. I just…, Samira mumbled, turning to find the blonde stranger gone. I thought I saw something.

You saw something or saw Adrian? Rossy teased.

Face growing hot, Samira whirled around to cover her mouth with her hand. With so many students around, someone could hear her and then go tell Adrian, then she would surely die of shame. Samira’s mother did work with his mother, so Adrian did have some knowledge of her existence. Annabel laughing, Samira threw her a peeved stare as Rossy broke away from her. She hated it when her friends ganged up on her to tease her about Adrian.

Come on. Let’s get to class before Mr. Larson takes away points for being late, Annabel stated. He’s not known for his mercy.

Not saying anything, Samira allowed Rossy to pull her to their math class while Annabel led the way. Glancing back, Samira caught a glimpse of the blonde again before turning a corner. Not sure who he was, a bad feeling grew in her gut as her friends talked about Rossy’s new relationship. Sitting in Mr. Larson’s class, Samira couldn’t shake the odd feeling that wouldn’t leave her.

Who was he? she thought. Why was he just standing there and staring?

As Samira wondered about what the stranger wanted, something deep down told her to stay away. He was dangerous. Chewing on a pen cap, she thought back, realizing she had never seen him before. As the math class continued on, Samira glanced over at Annabel who was still her normal, bubbly self. Shaking her crazy thoughts from her head, Samira forced herself to relax. Maybe it was just her imagination playing tricks on her. Or maybe it was the stress of not knowing what she wanted to do after high school. Thinking nothing of it, Samira shook all her crazy thoughts from her head. She was going to focus on school, and that was it. Nothing was going to change that.

Their next class was AP English, followed by Advanced Physics and Microeconomics. Homework was always given, and note-taking was always a must. As the day went on, Samira didn’t see the blond stranger again. Not even during lunch while she secretly looked for him, wondering who he could be. To Samira’s utter pleasure, school ended rather quickly, and she was back home and in her room again. She was still thinking about the blond stranger, and he seemed to be permanently stuck in her head. She had no idea who he was, but something inside her warned her to stay away. But why? What was so bad about him? His electric-blue eyes made her uneasy as she could still feel his stare looking through her, almost as if seeing her very soul. Giving a loud sigh, she continued to sit on her bed while Bandit watched her from the floor.

What is wrong with me, Bandit? Samira asked out loud as she got up and started to pace. Why can’t I just be normal and not have all these crazy thoughts in my head?

Bandit watched her in silence as she glanced at him. His thick tail wagged softly against her bedroom floor. Smiling at him, she knelt before him, scratching behind his ears. Her dog’s black eyes watched her carefully as she stared back into them. There was an almost human look to them. His thick fur was as soft as silk, the smell of cinnamon always coming off him. For as long as she could remember, he smelled like that. Countless shampoos and perfume sprays never got rid of the smell.

You’ll always think I’m normal, right? Samira asked.

Bandit gave her chin a light lick in response. Smiling at her dog, she gave him a big hug before kissing his head. Bandit was always there for her and never left her side. When she walked him, he would always protect her from the boys that approached her or the pigeons that dared to be in her path. Her dog reached her waist, intimidating everyone that he came into contact with from his size. She always spilled her secrets to him, not that she had many. She mostly talked about Adrian to him, explaining in detail how gorgeous she thought him to be. She would tell Annabel too, but her friend would always tease her afterward. Bandit never said anything, not that he could. It was just nice to get some things off her chest sometimes, and her dog was always all ears.

Guess what? Samira smiled, changing the subject to something lighter. Rossy got with Jimmy Diaz. Jimmy Diaz! I know, right? With her and Jimmy together, I would have a chance with Adrian. Can you imagine, Bandit? Me and Adrian. Together. Nothing could be more perfect than that.

Bandit barking in response, he jumped on her bed and gave a big yawn. Laughing to herself, Samira rolled her eyes at the big pooch. Eyes wandering to her gold bracelet, she tugged at it, trying to take it off. Like a million times before, it wouldn’t even budge as she continued to wish it gone. Her parents always dismissed her questions about the bracelet, telling her not to worry about it and that it looked good on her. Tugging at it, she always tried to tell her parents to cut it off, but they never did. Her father always told her to leave it be. Giving a loud sigh, she ran her eyes over her bracelet one last time before turning in for the day.

Scoot over, Bandit. Samira cried out, jumping on her bed to settle in for the night. It’s bedtime, and we both need our beauty sleep.

Curling up against her dog, Samira began to drift off to sleep as Bandit placed his head on her chest. She didn’t need any blankets. Bandit was always warm, especially in the cold weather, as she wrapped her arms around him. Bandit gently tapped her chin with his cold nose as he, too, closed his eyes.

Sweet dreams, Bandit. Samira smiled. I’ll see you in the morning.

Bandit huffed in response, causing a smile to spread across Samira’s face. She really did have the best dog in the world, despite Annabel’s constant nagging to get rid of him.

Chapter 2

With her alarm going off, Samira woke up and got ready for another day of school. The day felt just like any other day. She met Annabel at the Stop sign, they both walked to school, they bickered about how Samira should get rid of her dog, and they both sat at their desks toward the back. Mrs. Figueroa sat at her desk like always, watching and waiting for all her students to enter her class. Just like clockwork, Samira looked up at the door to see Adrian walking in with two of his friends. He wore dark jeans, black Chucks, and a white T-shirt. Hazel eyes standing out, his hair was slicked back like usual.

Samira’s eyes met Adrian’s, causing her heart to leap to her throat. Everyone in the class seemed to disappear around them as a warm smile appeared on Adrian’s face. His handsome features were perfection as he moved in slow motion. Smiling at her, Samira melted in her seat as her eyes fell to his lips—lips she wanted to kiss. Feeling herself float toward him, he extended his arms to embrace her. Reaching out to him, the seconds were pure torture as she slowly drew near to him. His smile widened slowly as she heard her name fall from his lips. Stomach fluttering up to her throat, Samira forced herself to move faster. She was almost there. Reaching for him, their fingers were centimeters from each other’s as he said her name once more.

School bell ringing loudly, Samira jumped in her seat, coming back to reality. Looking around, Adrian was already seated at his desk while Mrs. Figueroa was already shutting the door. Quickly getting her things out, Samira’s ears burned from embarrassment. Hopefully, no one saw her spacing out. Glancing to the side, she noticed Annabel watching her with a smirk.

Great, Samira thought. Of all people to notice her fantasizing, it had to be Annabel.

Avoiding all eye contact with her best friend, Samira knew she was going to get teased about it later. Sneaking a glance at Adrian, his head was down as he wrote in his notebook, completely unaware of her feelings for him. How she wished he knew, but then he probably did. That was probably the reason he never spoke to her. Annabel always suggested to make the first move, but could she? She could barely get the word hello out without sounding like she had a speech impediment.

The class soon ended after a surprise pop quiz, much to Annabel’s displeasure. As Samira walked out with Annabel to meet up with Rossy, the sun felt hotter today as they spotted their friend in the crowd. With jean shorts and a flowered top, her brown hair fell in waves past her shoulders. Like a pixie, she was practically floating toward them as her usual smile lit up her eyes.

Morning. Annabel beamed, hugging her. How is the future Mrs. Diaz this morning?

Rossy giggled. Fabulous. And you guys?

Well, I’m good, but Mira over here had a small incident.

Rossy’s eyes grew wide. Did you speak to him?

Samira’s face grew hot. No. You know I can’t speak to him. We just made eye contact.

Rossy arched a brow. Eye contact? I hope you two were using protection.

Samira threw her a dirty look as Annabel laughed out loud, high-fiving Rossy in the process. Her friends were never going to understand her. Samira rolled her eyes. She wasn’t exactly get whatever guy she wanted material. She wasn’t Rossy. She had to work if she wanted Adrian’s attention. Quickly noticing Madison, one of Rossy’s fellow cheer mates, the cheerleader walked up to them with yellow flyers. Samira signaled both girls to quiet down. Madison was the cheerleading captain, the most popular and hottest girl in the entire school. All the guys liked her. Her strawberry-blond hair fell past her shoulders, her model-like figure was the envy of every girl in school, and her Colgate smile was completely flawless. She was perfection if perfection was a high school girl. Her confidence was something to envy as Samira smiled at the girl. They weren’t friends per se, but they did get along because of Rossy. Madison always had her own crowd, a crowd that included Adrian and other popular kids from school.

Ladies. Madison greeted, handing each of them a flyer. Party at my place. I expect to see the three of you there tomorrow.

Party tomorrow? On a Wednesday? Annabel asked, looking at the flyer.

Yeah,