I rolled my eyes at her and adjusted my pillows behind me. “Yes, I do think. Ass. Anyways, what are the plans?”
Rose looked like she was about to jump in with another comment, but Brandon cut her off. “Wait till you see what we brought!” I smirked at his enthusiasm, feeling my own excitement begin to rise. He shrugged off his backpack and began unloading a heap of movies. My excitement faded fast as I read the titles upside down.
“Ugh, you can't be serious!”
“What? I thought you liked scary movies? And besides, this is Halloween after all. What we're you expecting?”
I knew we're supposed to have a scary movie night, but I didn't expect to see those particular movies. I looked from Brandon's confused face into Rose's smirking one.
“Seriously, Rose?”
Her smirk broadened. “What? They're good.”
“Okay, obviously I'm missing something. What's going on?” Brandon looked between her and me, waiting for an explanation.
“All the movies she picked out were based here. In Virginia.” I looked at him expectantly, waiting for the obvious to hit. He only looked confused.
“So?”
“God! So here I am, in Virginia. Surrounded by woods and about to go traipsing to a graveyard after watching movies about serial killers and mutant freaks, which are based in Virginia!” I watched as the light finally went on in his head.
“Oh.”
“Yeah.”
“But little Star, you said you loved horror. I figured you'd appreciate the extra boost in your terror.” I didn't think I've ever wanted to hit her so badly, and the darkness wasn't even rearing its ugly head. It was all me.
“You know damn well I'm a masochist like that.”
“Then you should be even more grateful.”
I thought about throwing my coffee into her face, but restrained myself. This was Rose, I reminded myself. She takes pleasure in torturing people. And besides, I love coffee. It would be like blasphemy.
“Whatever. So are we going to order a pizza or anything? Did you guys bring junk food?”
Brandon began digging again and produced an array of chocolate and candy from his bag. I felt my irritation dim as he tossed some of my favorites to me. I couldn't watch a movie without Junior Mints. I don't know why, but it's always been that way. I smiled my thanks and got up from the bed, taking my coffee with me.
They went to talk to my mom while I hopped in the shower. I needed some time to stock up on my courage. This whole thing seemed odd. Sure, I've heard lore and supposed history of places, but this was the first time I'd actually experience it for myself. The logical part of me knew that it was nothing but a story. While my brain told me those were rational thoughts, a core part of me thought that maybe it wouldn't be so odd. After all, I did have Sarah's journal. That wasn't supposed to be possible, yet there I was, holding a rather out there piece of witchy history. I didn't know how much more my brain could handle.
We ordered a pizza and went back downstairs to start prepping the movie marathon. Rose seemed to be more testy than usual. And by more I meant she had her full bitch mode on. I didn't know what was wrong with her, but she was taking extra perverse pleasure in torturing me tonight. I snapped out of my thoughts as a loud rapping came from the door. We all looked at each other and I sighed when I realized I'd be the one that would go answer it. It was my room, after all, but I was on edge. Uncomfortable. Becoming afraid. The darkness still hadn't made its appearance yet. I think that was what scared me the most. It was the only constant in my life lately, and yet it was still missing. I didn't know how strong it would be when it came back again.
I opened the door tentatively, chastising myself for thinking that a dude with a machete would be behind it. We hadn't even started the movies, yet I was already paranoid.
“What are you doing here?” Shock coursed through me as I stared into Andrei's hauntingly beautiful face. For a moment, I forgot to breath. Feeling light headed, I exhaled a gust of air, feeling my face warm quickly with a flush of desire. I didn't need this tonight, I didn't need it at all.
“Rose mentioned the other night that everyone was hanging here. Figured I'd stop by for a bit.”
I glanced back at Rose, seeing her looking incredibly pleased with herself. I gave her a 'wtf' look, but she just shrugged and got more comfortable on the couch. I cast my glance toward Brandon, but he looked as flabbergasted as I was.
“So, are you going to let me in?” He leaned against the door frame, his ebony hair hanging precariously in his face. I felt the urge to run my fingers through it. I snapped out of my trance and moved to the side, not saying a word as I waved him in. I didn't trust my voice.
“Hey Andrei. Glad you could make it.” I shot Rose a glare from behind Andrei's back. Her smile grew even bigger.
“I couldn't refuse the invitation. What are we going to watch?” He sat down at the edge of the couch, leaving the only space for me to sit between him and Rose. Everyone looked at me expectantly, knowing I had nowhere else to sit. Sure I could sit on the floor, but the thought of sitting within shadows while watching horror movies sent a wave of fear coursing through me. I didn't need any more stress added to the night.
I mentally groaned and started to move away from the door, only to stop short as another knock came. I looked at Rose suspiciously, but she looked just as confused as I was. I turned back around and opened the door only to find Gabe standing there, pizza boxes in hand. I was tempted to slam the door in his face.
“Hey.” His smile warmed some of the cold anger from me. I leaned against the frame and sent a weak smile in return.
“Hey yourself. You helping out again?”
“Obviously.” His laugh caused my smile to widen.
“Well come on in. I'll run upstairs and get the money.”
“You having a party?” He gestured to where everyone was sitting on the couch. I looked over and was shocked to see a trace of anger marring Andrei's face. I'd have to wonder about that later.
“No, just a movie night.”
“Too bad I'm working. I could have joined in on the fun.” The thought of Gabe joining our little group sent a shot of dread through me. I pasted on a smile and closed the door behind him.
“Yeah, too bad. Maybe next time.” I dashed upstairs to grab the money that was waiting on the hall table. I returned downstairs and noticed that Andrei still hadn't lost the edge on anger in his eyes. Rose looked like she was eating up the display of testosterone as Gabe and Andrei sized each other up.
“Here you go.” I practically shoved the money at him in the hopes of breaking up their stare down.
He looked startled for a moment, but took the money and handed me the pizza boxes. His eyes switched between me and Andrei, looking like he was trying to piece something together.
“Thanks. Hey, can I talk to you for a minute?” He looked pleadingly at me. I felt a migraine coming on. This was supposed to be a fun night.
“Sure.” I cast a glance at everyone on the couch. “I'll be right back.” Brandon looked rather calm now about it all. Rose looked highly amused and Andrei looked irritated. I rolled my eyes and followed Gabe outside.
“What's up?” I asked as I closed the door behind me. He abruptly turned around, causing me to step back. I hated when people did that.
“We're friends, right?”
I raised my eyebrow. “Yes?”
“Okay, well I don't like you hanging out with Andrei.” I stared at him, waiting for him to elaborate. He remained silent with a stern look on his face. It didn't suit him at all.
“Why?”
That seemed to fluster him. I don't think he was used to anyone asking for a reason. Probably because the herds of girls who threw themselves at him didn't have an original thought in their heads.
“Well, I just don't like him. He's different.”
“While I appreciate your concern, there's really no need to worry.”
“There isn't?”
“No.�
�
That seemed to fluster him even more. “Don't you like him?”
His question shocked me for a moment. Did I like Andrei? There was an intensity about him that drew me in, that was for sure. And I had that unreasonable hormone issue every time he was near. But did I like him personally? More than a friend? Hormone issue aside, I honestly didn't know. I didn't want to know.
“No, we're just friends. Just like you and me.”
That seemed to deflate him a bit. “Oh, okay. Well, I guess I better get going.”
“That's all you wanted to talk to me about?”
“Yeah, pretty much.” With a weak smile he walked away. I stood there for a moment, my mind going over everything.
“This day just keeps getting better and better.” I sighed and ran my hands through my hair then headed back inside.
“So what did Prince Charming want?”
I stopped short right inside the door at the sound of Andrei's voice. Rose and Brandon we're having a quiet conversation, leaving me to Andrei's interrogation. What was with guys today?
“Not much, just warning me away from you.” I snapped back, my defenses rearing their angry head.
His anger defused. “Oh really? Are you going to listen to him?” The way he looked at me made me want to lash out. With my body. On his. I shook my head and walked around him, wanting this night to be over already.
“I don't see why I should. We're just friends.” I've been saying that a lot lately.
He followed behind me and sat down next to me on the couch, closer than I liked. Well, I did like it, I just didn't want it. There I go lying to myself again.
“You sure about that?”
I looked up at him. “Yes. Why? Is there something we're supposed to be?” I wanted to slap my hand over my mouth. Baiting and flirting with him wasn't something my rational mind told me to do.
He smirked and reached out to move a lock of hair behind my ear. Delightful little shivers broke out across my body.
“We'll see.”
I breathed out a sigh of relief as he turned away from me, releasing me from his gaze.
“You ready to get started?” I looked over at Rose. By her look of amusement I knew she wouldn't be any help. I leaned forward and grabbed a paper plate and a piece of pizza.
“Yup, let’s do it.”
As the night progressed I found myself slowly making, err jumping, my way closer to Andrei, until I was practically glued to his side. He didn't seem to mind it much and I often felt his chest jump with silent laughter. He may have thought it was funny but I didn't. My love/hate relationship with horror movies was in full effect that night. Every time the creepy music would start I'd find myself pressing closer into Andrei. Everything made me jump.
As the credits rolled I went limp with relief and waited for someone to turn on the lights. There was no way in hell I was moving from that couch until the room was as bright as the sun. I winced at the brightness as Brandon turned them on. Scooting away from Andrei, I felt my face flush. I knew he was smiling without even looking at him.
“Yes! It's almost time!” I jumped as Rose practically shouted in my ear.
“Time for what?” Amusement laced Andrei's voice.
“We're going to initiate little Star here. It's time to test her courage.” I sent a glare at Rose, hoping to shut her up. She was having way too much fun with this.
“What? You’re taking her to the graveyard?”
“That's the plan.”
Andrei started laughing. I turned my glare onto him but he ignored it just like Rose. “You can't be serious!”
“I am. She may not be from here but she has to go through it all the same.”
“I'm sitting right here, you know.” I crossed my arms over my chest and slumped back.
“Oh, I know. There's no way I could miss you.” With a wink he turned back to Rose. “It's too bad I can't come with you. I would love to see how she handles it.”
“I know, right? She made the couch move with how much she jumped during the—”
I had enough. I stood up and went to the door. “Again, I'm right here. While I'm sure you guys will love to go on and on forever about how scared the movies made me, we've got other things to do, remember? So, it was nice having you over, Andrei. Don't worry about missing this because I'm sure Rose will fill you in on all the glorifying details later.” I opened the door and gestured for him to leave. He sat there for a moment, a small smile playing on his face. God I didn't know why he affected me so much. Even though I was determined for him to leave, I wanted to just crawl on top of him, and sink my teeth into him. Never letting him go. His smile broadened, almost as if he could hear my thoughts. I blushed and stood rooted to the spot, staring him down. With a shrug he got up and slinked his way over to me. He was way to graceful, too seductive, entrancing. I held my breath as he neared but couldn't look away. There was just something about his eyes that drew me in.
He stopped, barely an inch from me. I felt his heat suffuse my body as his scent enveloped me. His fingertips sent sparks across my skin as he gently ran them down my face, to rest them heavily against my neck.
“I look forward to seeing you again, little Tigress.” He lowered his face toward mine. My heart shot up into my throat. I barely resisted the urge to raise up and make our lips meet. Two inches, one. My God he was dragging this out. He rubbed his thumb against my bottom lip. They parted automatically as a small sound escaped me. I swayed toward him. I couldn't stop myself if I wanted to. My eyes drew down to his mouth, barely a breath from mine. He smiled, then turned and left.
I stood there, stunned and kept staring after him. What the hell was that about? Did I want him to kiss me? I shook my head and turned toward Rose and Brandon. No, no I didn't want that. Well, I did, but I shouldn't.
“Holy mother of all things hot and yummy.” I looked over at the sound of Rose's muttering. I didn't think I've ever seen her look that shocked.
“What?” I snapped. Who does he think he is anyways? It's not like I was asking for his attention. You'd think that by how much I've been snapping on people that he'd take a hint. That boy must really like a challenge. Too bad he was going to lose.
“Earth to Star! Jesus, you'd think she'd pay attention at least once every thirty seconds.” I snapped my attention back to them, jumping back as I noticed they were right in front of me.
“Sorry. What were you saying?”
She held my jacket out to me. “If we don't leave now we're going to miss the witching hour. Will you please pay attention so we can get a move on?”
I rolled my eyes and shrugged into my jacket, shoving my thoughts of Andrei to the back of my mind.
Chapter Twenty-Eight
Moonlight filtered through the swaying trees. The shadows seemed to dance against them, creating scattered images of days long passed. My eyes scanned around frantically. The woods were different at night, a lot different. There seemed to be secrets hiding amongst the foliage, daring you to discover them. I didn't. I stuck as close to Brandon as I could without actually clinging to him, though I was tempted too.
He shrieked and jumped back, knocking into me. My returning scream could have woken the dead. That wasn't a pleasant thought considering we were almost to the graveyard.
“What the hell is wrong with you guys?” Rose tromped back through the underbrush, her agitation leading the way.
I stood up and wiped the dirt from my palms. “Big boy over here scared the shit out of me. What the hell, Brandon? You're supposed to be braver than I am!” I was pissed. I didn't need to be anymore scared than I already was. Maybe I should have stuck to Rose instead.
“God, seriously? Look, we're almost there. Can you guys refrain from pissing your pants until after we're done? What scared you anyways?”
Brandon looked between the two of us. I wasn't going to help him out. Besides, I wanted to know too. “I thought I saw a bug.”
My jaw nearly hit the floor. “Are you serious? We're in t
he freaking woods! Of course there's going to be bugs!”
Rose started laughing. Yeah, it was kind of funny, but I wasn't in the mood for hilarity. I just wanted to go up, touch the damn headstone, and go home.
“Whatever. Let’s just go.” He stormed away, leaving me and Rose to follow after him.
Silence ensued on the rest of our trek. I still couldn't believe that the original graveyard was technically in my back yard. I shuddered at the thought of all the bodies rising from the grave. They'd run into my house first when they went to go eat the townspeople. Freaking great.
The woods started to thin and I could make out a bath of moonlight in the distance. I swatted away low lying limbs as we broke free.
There were headstones everywhere. The moonlight bathed against the perfect circle that the woods created. It was like a natural border. The full moon hung full in the midnight blue sky, seeming to weigh over us. I huddled into my jacket, trying to shrink into myself. Rose stepped forward and looked expectantly at me. I thought about backing away and making a mad dash to the house, but I didn't want to become lost in the woods. At night. Alone. Plus, she probably would tackle me before I even made it that far.
I took a deep breath and stepped forward. Her smile broadened as I walked toward her. There was an almost malicious gleam in her eyes.
“Alright, here's what you have to do. You see that statue in the middle of the graveyard?”
I looked around. We were at a graveyard for crying out loud! Of course there were going to be statues! “Which one?”
She rolled her eyes at me. “The one directly in the middle! The angel, you see it?” I nodded. “Good. Now Merlo's headstone is right by it. Even you won't be able to miss it.”
I looked at her like she was stupid. What, was it supposed to glow or something? She shoved me forward. I shot a glare at her but she just waved me on. “Go on. You've got to do it. It's tradition.”
I thought about how many stupid things people had to do because of tradition. This had to top the list. I weaved my way around headstones, my feet sliding seamlessly within the fog. I shivered, the oncoming winter chill in the air biting into my flesh. My breath puffed out before me to join the fog that was drifting around. It was creepy as hell. And silent. I thought my ears would rebel at the lack of sound.
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