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selfi
Super-Earth
- Joined
- Oct 26, 2009
- Location
- right where i belong
Chapter 1
The sun was peeking over the horizon, making the sky the color of diluted blood. To the east, it looked like the trees and sky was on fire- to the west- a bloody battlefield. Ealy’s eyes fluttered open, her alarm had been going off for a while and This is the New Shit was blaring. Fully conscience, she realized she had been singing along with it while she had slept.
Ealy rolled over on her stomach and groaned, “I fucking hate Monday school mornings.” She said into her pillow. She pondered that comment before adding in her head, ~I fucking hate school~
Bright sunlight spilled into room and Ealy hissed as the bright light pierced her dark cave. “Jessica... warn me next time.” She groaned before rolling over to look at her sister.
Jessica smiled sheepishly before saying, “Good morning.” She was already dressed right down to her All Stars- traditional black and white. A loose jacket fell over her shoulders and her damp hair combed though ruffled. “Come on Sis. Get ready or we’ll miss the bus.”
Ealy loved her sister with all her heart, but at times...At times, she could be a pain in the ass. “Jess, I don’t want to go.” She said growling low in her throat. “The teachers all need to take the tampons out of their asses.”
Jessica’s eyes shined with amusement. Picking up both their parents genes for eyes, she had double the color. Her left eye was an amazing form of emerald green. They would have loved her at the Emerald City. Her right was an electric blue- her brown hair emphasizing it. “Ealy come on. Get up. Bus gets in here in forty-five minutes.” she turned to leave. “You know if you don’t go, you won’t see Tanner.” She grinned at her sibling before she left.
Ealy’s eyes flew open, blazing bright. Her eyes were the opposite of Jessica’s but they held more intensity than her sister’s. “That was low.” She growled again, groaning as she rolled out of bed. Her features were identical to Jessica’s. A lithe and athletic form, perky C breasts and a round firm ass.
She stood to watch her twin leave and shook her head as she walked to the door at the right of her bed, “She’s going to be the death of me.” She muttered, opening the door, which lead to a bathroom.
Ealy took a hot shower, letting the water run over her face and down her back before she washed her hair with the same cherry blossom shampoo her sister did. Stepping out of the shower, she pulled a black and red towel off the rack; drying herself with it before wrapping it around her body.
Once back in her own room, Ealy shook out her hair before combing it; water droplets scattered over everything as she shook it again. Closing the blinds she turned on her overhead light. Wake Me Up When September Ends began playing and Ealy sang softly to it, her voice lilting with a slight unrecognizable accent.
She slid on a pair of black Dickies, black bra, a black Flogging Molly shirt and a long black corsair style jacket; complete with buttons and white ruffles along the cuffs and collar. Ealy pulled her hair back before snapping a spiked collar into place. Glancing in the mirror, she grinned before bending down to tug on a pair of Doc Martin’s.
There was a knock on the door and she answered without even looking. “Jess, don’t be such a kill joy.” She finished tying her laces and looked up, Tanner!” she cried running to him, “You walked here, didn’t you?” she glared at him playfully before planting a kiss on his cheek.
Tanner beamed, “Good morning to you too.” he hugged her tightly before nibbling on her neck slightly. He was a foot taller than her, so he was able to kiss the top of her head- which he did.
Ealy stepped back and looked him up and down with the eyes of a wild cat. Her left eye grew a brighter shade of electric blue, now making it almost clear. Her green eye barely shining, seeming to turn all she looked at a shade of light green. Coming back down off the trance, Ealy reached for her black Jansport backpack. “You riding with us?” she asked him in English.
Tanner nodded and replied with fluent Irish, “Yes, Babe. Your sister called me. Tyson is already downstairs.” He winked one of his deep sea green eyes at her before clasping her hand in his. Ealy shook it once, and then the pair of them walked downstairs.
Jessica smiled as she heard the comment and went down to the first floor. She loved her twin with all her heart; it was to the point where if anything happened to her, she wouldn’t know what to do. She’d be essentially lost without her.
Jessica pulled her small, simple silver Nokia out of her pocket to call Tyson before texting Tanner to come over. They lived just down the street, but she figured her sister could use a friendly face first thing in the morning.
Five minutes later, the doorbell rang and Jessica went to answer it, opening the door she smiled wide. “Tyson!” she hugged him tightly and looked over his shoulder to see Tanner. He was the protective Goth Irish/Italian that Ealy had claimed when they first met the two men.
Both Jessica and her sister had been five; starting Kindergarten, when they met Tyson and Tanner. Tyson had been the shy one; seeing Jessica on the first day, he shied to Tanner’s side. Tanner had laughed and patted his shoulder. He was much older than his age. Being the son of one of the one of the top five wealthiest Mafia mob bosses, an under lord, Tanner had become jaded even before he reached his teen years. It was because of this that no one touched with Ealy.
Tanner was rolling in money before he even knew the value of it. As such, he pampered and spoiled Ealy every time he saw her; bringing gifts to Jessica as well. Gifts that were just as costly as the ones he gave to his girl.
Tyson came from a wealthy family as well, although they always protected him. It was for that reason that the first real fight Tyson had taken part in (courtesy of Tanner) had given him a wicked scar through his left eye. The man, who gave it to him, later found dead, in an alley; broken kneecaps and a bullet execution style in the head.
After Tanner had struck up a conversation with the two sisters, Tyson had stuck by Jessica’s side and had never left. Tanner had been so protective of Ealy that when another girl said something mean to her and made Ealy tear up, Tanner had shoved the girl to the ground and split her lip. After that, Ealy had accepted Tanner’s mannerisms and became the tough Goth she was today and learned how to fight later that week from Tanner.
Jessica turned to Ealy, “You ready?” she noticed the look in her eyes and held up a hand. “Alright alright. I get it.”
Ealy looked at Tanner who grinned, he motioned with his head to follow her sister and then the four of them went to catch the bus.
Chapter 2
Ealy sat down on the grey seats groaning. Tanner sat next to her and smiled, “Come on, my sweet dear Ealy. School ain’t all that bad.” He whispered into her ear, his Irish accent catching up with him.
Ealy just leaned her head on his shoulder and sighed, “You’re here with me babe. That’s all I can ever ask.” She replied to him.
Jessica and Tyson appeared on the seats across the isle. “It’s only eight hours sis.” Jessica tried to cheer her up. Her sister moaned again in Tanner’s shoulder and he exchanged a look with Tyson.
Tanner kissed the top of his girlfriend’s head and rode in silence while his best friend and his own girl talked quietly.
The bus ride wasn’t very long, just tortuous for Ealy. As the four friends got off, Ealy made an obscene Irish gesture to the bus driver who responded by saying, Have a nice day you four.” Ealy laughed, her eyes darkening and an evil smile playing on her lips. Tanner noticed it and he chuckled, “I know, I know.” He rubbed her back.
Chapter 3
Jessica waved and kissed good-bye to Tyson at her first period class. Tanner hugged and kissed his own girlfriend as the four split up. Jessica looked to Ealy, “Come on sister. It can’t be all that bad.” She said quietly in Japanese as they walked into Mr Kobald’s English Class.
Ealy turned to glare at her and responded, her Japanese more fluent, smooth and clear. “With the exception of you, Ryu-sensei, Tanner-kun and Tyson-kun; I would not come at all.” She plopped in the seat closest to the door and the wall.
Jessica smiled and shook her head as she sat at her left. Grabbing spiral and a pen, she sat attentively, waiting for class to begin.
Ealy rolled her eyes, pulling a black iPod touch out of her bag and started to listen to Fuck You I’m Drunk. Closing her eyes, she listened to the lyrics and beat.
A tap on her shoulder made her open her electric blue eye. It was glowing brightly. “What the fuck do you want?” she growled in Japanese. It became fluent to the point where it was as if she had lived with the language all her life.
The man who was standing over her chuckled, amusement reaching his beady black eyes making them shine. “Try that in English?” he said in a manner that made Ealy get up while changing the song to You’re Going Down.
“Oh so you can move.” The man added in a voice laced with humor.
Ealy turned the music up and clenched her hands into fists, “You are a fucking prick, if I wasn’t at school, I’d fucking kick your ass.” She growled again, her voice low and guttural, though her Japanese was dead on.
Immediately Jessica was between them. “Sit down, Ealy-kun.” She ordered in broken Japanese, something that only happened when she stressed. To the man she said in English, “Derek, not here.”
Derek looked to Ealy who was still standing, though listening to Sound of Madness, then back to her timid sister. “Pfft, ain’t worth my time,” He put his hand into a loose fist, lifting Jessica’s chin to stare into her eyes. “I would love to gaze into these pretty little things for a long time.” He grinned crudely and dropped her chin. He looked at Ealy. That was his first mistake.
Ealy ripped the headphones out of her ears and dropped her Touch on the desk. “Don’t you fucking touch her.” She grabbed him by his throat, right above his gang tattoo. Old school font spelled out South Side Demons; it was right along his collarbone and was visible from the wife beater that he wore under his open button up top. “That English enough for you?” she began squeezing at the vital points.
Derek laughed as best as he could. “Oh, now I see.” He choked out, “She’s sub; you’re the dom. Kinky.” He stared into her eyes as he began to wheeze. That was his second mistake.
Ealy’s eyes flared. “Fucking prick.” she said calmly in English. She kicked his knees out. Now he was on his knees before her.
With his last gasp of air, he grinned and added, “I don’t normally sub, but for you... consider it done.” That was his last and final mistake. He looked at Jessica who was shocked as was everyone else in the room.
Their classmates knew that Ealy had a short fuse; that if anyone fucked with her or her sister, they would get scared shitless. However, no one actually provoked it.
Ealy glared at him before bending down, “I will have your balls if you ever say a crude comment about either of us or touch her in any form.” She whispered menacingly into his ear. “I don’t need to remind you what would happen if you touch me.” She reached up with her free hand and formed a fist to knock him out when a hand caught her arm.
Ealy whipped her head around and glared at the person foolish enough to attempt touching her. “Ealy-kun, drop him- now.”
Ealy heard the voice speaking in Native Japanese and squeezed one last time before she threw Derek to the floor. He landed with a thud.
As soon as the new face dropped her arm, Ealy bowed formally; shocking the class further. She never showed respect to anyone but her sister, Tyson, her boyfriend and a young man named Ryu.
“Forgive me Ryu-sensei.” Ealy said in fluent Japanese. “He touched my sister.” She added.
Ryu nodded, “Get up Ealy-san. I understand that you were protecting her. But you went too far.” He replied.
Ealy rose slowly before she lowered her head in an additional sign of respect. “Yes Sensei. I know.” She intoned before walking back to her seat. Ealy didn’t look around the class, but plug in- still listening to Skillet.
Ryu whispered something to Jessica in broken English. Jessica whimpered and nodded before sitting down too. He walked slowly to the seat in front of Ealy and leaned against the wall, with his back to it; resting his feet on the seat besides him.
Derek had been coughing up until now. He rose up to his side before placing his hands firmly on the ground and hoisting himself up. “Bitch is loco.” He muttered, his Mexican accent flaring. Ealy twitched, but didn’t move further. “I’ll kill you and your sister one day.” He threatened before swaggering to his seat at the third row.
Ealy laughed and said in Japanese directed to both Ryu and Jessica. “If I had a yen for every time someone said that.... I wouldn’t have to go to school anymore.”
Jessica laughed because she was nervous and Ryu shook his head and replied in his native language. “You should still be careful, Ealy-kun. Derek-san is a dangerous man.” He used the endearment from of her name this time. Ealy bowed her head in acknowledgement before closing her eyes again.
Mr Kobald walked in and started his regular lecture before assigning a creative writing project due in a week. Ealy sniggered and rolled her eyes while Jessica religiously took notes.
Chapter 4
The next period was Art and Ealy ditched to go hang out with a few of her friends. Jessica watched her go sadly before walking to her art class. She had been working on a portrait of her, Tyson, Tanner and her sister. It was going to be displayed in the halls after she had finished with it. She was talented; several people enjoyed seeing her draw full body or simple headshots of them; either in real life format, Chibi or anime style.
As Jessica walked over the threshold, she saw her canvas standing at the head of the class. The charcoal and pencil drawing was attracting attention. Jessica walked up to it and brought it to an easel at the back of the class. “Ms Karn.” Jessica looked up to see her teacher, Mr Southers coming over to her.
“Hello Sir.” She said as she got out her pencils and a straight razor. She began to sharpen her pencil. “What can I do for you?” she asked as she began to sketch her boyfriend in jeans and a t-shirt.
Mr Southers frowned slightly. “Is that just going to be charcoal and pencil or are you going to make it have a little color?” he asked her firmly. It was more of a rhetorical question. He hated any of his pupils having a drawing without color.
Jessica frowned and looked at the painting. She thought what her sister would say and grimaced. That would definitely get her sent to the principal’s office. She grinned before she thought of something else her sister would say. “I’ll add a little color Sir.” She smiled up at him. Mr Southers nodded in satisfaction and left her alone.
Jessica laughed and pulled out an iPod shuffle, listening to her mix of pop songs. She hummed along with it and added the final changes to Tyson’s outfit. She stood up and stepped back to see it from far away. The faces were perfect; the strength showed on her sister’s face and Tanner’s the innocence in both Tyson and her eyes showed as well. Jessica sat back down and adjusted the eyes to make them anime style. Taking out her colored pencils, she colored them. Making Ealy and her boyfriend’s more solid and her own and Tyson’s loose and full of life. She grinned at the result and then took a sharpie to sign her name at the bottom corner.
She put it with the rest of the paintings and drawings that had gotten the privilege of being out in the halls. Jessica sat back down at her desk and took out some printer paper to doodle a short comic of her boyfriend and her in danger and Ealy coming to save them. She snorted and started laughing at how idiotic it was. Tanner wouldn’t be far behind; and besides, Ealy had begun to teach her how to fight. Jessica started the comic over, this time making sure she kicked his ass. While Tyson stood back with a satisfying look on his face. Pausing she erased it and put instead a look of both wonder and fear. As if he wanted to help, but was afraid she might get hurt worse.
“My my my... Bitch’s sister does have talent.” A voice whispered in her ear. The Mexican accent was but a whisper on his breath.
A creepy and perverted aura surrounded her and Jessica flinched and kept drawing. “You really shouldn’t say those words you know.” She said quietly, still drawing the doodle, before absentmindedly drawing a picture of a cat sunning himself on a rug in front of a window.
Derek was besides her in the empty chair, “What, you think you could take me.” It was more of a statement than a question.
Jessica kept drawing the cat, changing the sex and him into a Neko. “I never said that Derek.” Her skin was crawling. “All I know is that when push comes to shove I can take care of myself moderately.” She shivered slightly before making the cat’s ear twitch as he snoozed.
Derek laughed coldly and darkly. “One day we’ll have to put that to the test.” He patted her shoulder before walking out of the class. He only came for roll call then left. All the teachers and students were scared of him, with the exception of Ealy and Tanner. Derek was the second in command of the most powerful gang in their city.
As soon as he left, Jessica pulled out her cell and texted a warning to Ealy. There was a reply right away. ‘Don’t worry about him, sis. Tanner and I will look after you. You should know that...’ Jessica clenched the phone to her chest, before bringing it up to her lips to kiss it. “I love you Ealy-kun.” She whispered in Japanese.
Chapter 5
Ealy had left her sister at second period hesitantly. She would rather stick by her side, but the art teacher gave her the creeps. Besides, he probably wouldn’t like the picture she was drawing now. Her skill wasn’t as good as her sister’s, but it was second best. She was drawing a morbid cartoon with blood, and a little violence. Someone was being sexually assaulted and the boyfriend was slowly cutting off his dick after he kicked the man’s ass. She grinned as she thought of it; the picture was safe in the drawing pad in her backpack. Her friends, Karin, Zeza and Zain were going to the old haunted house just down the street. There were stories of screams coming from the upstairs rooms late at night. Ealy knew what they were. They were women that the Southside Demons had abducted and were torturing before raping and kicking to the curb. Nothing new there. She, however, wanted to go anyways, so now she followed her friends, with Zain leading the way. He had claimed Karin and Zeza back in middle school. He wanted to make his own harem and was getting close.
Once through the back door, they were in a mudroom. She looked around and saw that the place was deserted. The SD were either skipping school or in classes that they had to be in. “Too quiet, too quiet.” She muttered softly in Japanese. When Karin looked at her, she gave her a grim smile. “Zain. Watch your girls. They are the SD’s type. If there’s any lurking around here, they will be the first to go.” She paused before showing a flash of canines that looked like fangs when she grinned evilly, “They will make you watch.”
Zain looked at Ealy from his ever-changing eyes. At moments, they were a soft purple, at other times they were a brown so dark you thought they were black. Now they changed to that form of brown. “What about you?” he asked her, his voice gruff, concern hiding at the end. He scanned the mudroom, his shaggy Emo style hair getting into his eyes.
Ealy shrugged and walked closer, showing him that she wasn’t kidding. Her green eye growing dark, her blue one almost robotic, “They will try and torture me. Try to make me scream. When they can’t they will probably kill me and dump me somewhere.” She shrugged again and touched his shoulder. “If you want, I’ll make sure this place is clear before we venture any farther in.” When Zain shook his head and got that look into his eyes as if he could take care of himself and his girls, Ealy nodded and sighed sadly. “It’s all on you, man.” She reached behind her to pull out a pair of gloves that jingled slightly. At Zain’s look, she showed them to him, “I bought these gloves and modified them to look like Zell’s from Final Fantasy 8. She grinned and tugged them on. “Granted they aren’t as bad ass, but the bits of metal on the knuckles have got me out of several binds.”
Zain tilted his head and guided his girls into the kitchen while Ealy trailed slightly behind. She caught her reflection in a full body mirror, which was cracked, and saw her gloves clashing with her corsair jacket. What did her sister always say? Protection before fashion? On the other hand, was it comfort before fashion? She could never keep up with her sister’s sayings. Somehow, the second one sounded better. “Ealy!” Zain’s cry made her rush quickly and silently into the kitchen.
The kitchen had a grimy feel to it and Ealy shuddered shortly before looking to Zain who was squatting facing a corner. She made her way quietly to him. “What is it?” she asked making him jump. Zain stepped back to reveal a girl who was tied up. Ealy stopped and clenched her teeth. Her eyes darkened; the blue an indigo and the green a very dark jade, “Fuckers.” She growled with such ferocity that Zain and the two girls back up a little. Her eyes softened just as quickly, showing the three friends how much Ealy could change. She stepped forward and squatted, her knees never touching the sticky and red tinted tiled floor. She spoke first in Japanese. “Hello, Little Bit.” She addressed the girl who she could only guess was at least fifteen. When the girl raised her head, Ealy saw that she was an Asian who was thirteen. She would have been a very pretty girl, if not for the smudges on her cheeks and her hair ratted and mussed. “Can you speak?” she asked again, the words sounding foreign to Zeza and Karin. Zain had spent enough time around her to understand most of what she said. The girl shook her head and shook slightly. Ealy noticed that she was naked, and tied with her hands above her to a radiator. “Get out of here.” She spoke in English; she didn’t turn to make sure they did; their footsteps telling her that they were departing. “I’m going to help you, alright?” she reached into her pocket and flicked open a stiletto switchblade. It had been a fourteenth birthday present from Tanner. He had showed her a site where she could make her own. She did and it was her baby. Dark rosewood handle and polished Kris blade that she made sure was sharp every night. The blade was six inches. She hadn’t used it yet, but the man that she used it on would be sorry that he had fucked with her. It felt light in her hands weighing only eight ounces. Ealy looked to the girl. “Relax, Shika-kun. I’ll get you out of here.” She said in Japanese, calling her deer for the way her eyes grew wide and she froze as if she was a deer in the headlights.
“No...Please just leave me here...they’ll be back soon.” The girl spoke rapidly, her voice still light and child-like. Shika shook her head and pleaded with Ealy. “Just leave me here...please.” she added. “My parents won’t worry about me. They never wanted me.” She confessed.
Ealy considered still taking her down but she bowed her head low, she would respect her wish. Snapping the knife closed she put her hand on the girl’s cheek. “We shall see you soon. When I grow older, I will look for a baby that reminds me of a deer. That will be Shika-kun.” She smiled and kissed the girl’s head. Ealy believed in reincarnation.
Shika managed a small smile before bowing her head as well. “Now go! Before they come and do what they did to me. Protect your friends.” She commanded.
Ealy pocketed her knife and nodded. She turned on her heel and walked quickly though silent, as though she were stalking a small animal. She heard a call and she raced through to the mudroom again, clamping her hand over Zain’s mouth firmly. “Not a word.” She whispered violently in English. “They are on their way here.” She slid her hand back into her pocket and touched her knife, comforted by the thought that it was still there. “We need to go back to school.” She turned to the girls. “Can you run?” she asked. When they nodded, she pointed to the strip of trees that made a fence on the left side of the house. “The school is that way. Run.” When the girls ran, she turned to Zain. “Never come back to this house again. Understand?” she told him, still speaking in English. Her accent flaring again, no one really could figure out what it was. It was definitely foreign, but since she had lived in the states all her life; none could guess.
Zain nodded, “Yes, I do.” He looked over her shoulder, “What happened to the girl?” he asked. When Ealy shook her head slightly Zain sighed. “Well you tried.” He touched her arm. “You did what you could.” He told her comfortingly, but Ealy’s mood didn’t improve.
It was only when they were headed back to the campus did Ealy speak again, this time in Japanese. “One day, Derek-chan. You will be in pain, and I will laugh and bathe in your blood.” She said it audibly and Zain balked, his face turning white, his eyes a very light purple. Ealy glanced at him and grinned, “Ah so you understand more than you let on, huh?” she asked in English. When he nodded, she smiled again flashing her canines and he stopped walking to put more space between them. Ealy noticed and laughed as her phone buzzed in her jeans pocket. “You think I’m a vampire?” she smiled wide and pointed, “These aren’t fangs. They are just canines. I don’t brush them. I prefer them to be sharp.” She laughed low and deep as she slid her blood red Blackberry open to read her text. “Mother fucker.” She whispered in Italian. She replied to it before tucking it away. “We have to hurry Zain-kun.” She told her friend, speaking in Japanese, “Let’s run.” She took off, despite her clothes at a fast and steady pace, Zain trying to catch up.
Chapter 6
It was already lunch, so Ealy gave Zain a loose salute and went off to find her boyfriend and her sister. Zain watching her leave with a mixture of fear and respect. He had seen and found out more about her than he really wanted to. He wandered off as well to find his two girls, who were hiding in the girl’s bathroom, cowering and holding each other as they cried.
Ealy found her boyfriend first; he was talking to a few of his male friends- most likely about the Raiders kicking Seattle’s ass in the recent football game. She had unbuttoned her jacket, so it billowed out from the strong breeze that came up. However, seeing how her element was wind, it was no surprise. “Tanner...” she whispered in his ear. Tanner shuddered and turned around. Ealy wasn’t there. He closed his eyes, reached out to his right, and caught her by the neck. “I’ve found you babe.” He grinned showing a flash of sharp canines.
Ealy breathed in sharply at his light touch on her neck. “Well done.” She smiled and walked into his chest, her neck still held. Tanner brought her up to her toes, which Ealy did willingly to kiss him passionately. There were cheer and kissing noises from his friends, but the couple ignored them. It was only when Tanner released her neck did Ealy push him to the ground. She quickly straddled him and smiled around the kiss. Tanner didn’t even flinch as he hit the pavement. He wormed in some tongue and Ealy reach between her legs to cup him.
A whistle sounded and Ealy rolled her eyes as she kept kissing her boyfriend. The whistle sounded again and an annoying voice said, “Cut it out you too. You know the rules of PDA. That is-”
Ealy raised a hand and flipped her off before continuing to kiss Tanner. He chuckled under her and opened his eyes, Ealy doing the same. You know you are going to be sent to the office again.
Ealy could hear him say it, even though she was just looking into his eyes. Yes, but do I care? She responded, not saying a word, though stopping the kiss. Tanner chuckled again and pulled himself up, hands on her waist. His muscles rippling under her made Ealy moan with longing. “Come on, babe. Give Mrs Finch what she wants.” He murmured, melting Ealy with his Irish accent, which he put on thick. Ealy nodded and climbed off him.
Ealy turned to look at Mrs Finch, the librarian. Her beady black eyes peered at her, waiting for her to say something else so she could go on her power trip. She was skinny, and the only part of her that had any fat on her was her face. Ealy looked at her with distain before making a very awkward and stiff bow. “Forgive me Finch-sensei.” She said in Japanese, but Tanner cleared his throat and Ealy rose, rolling her eyes. “I’m sorry Ma’am.”
Mrs Finch nodded once and walked away, back to the library, which was next to the cafeteria. The way she walked was bird-like. Her name was probably just a fluke, a coincidence.
Tanner laughed and lay flat against the pavement before flipping himself up. “Was that so hard, my dear?” he asked her, putting his arm around her shoulders. At her look, Tanner gave a low chuckle and nibbled her neck, making her moan softly for him. “Come on. Let’s find your sister.” He waved good-bye to his friends who watched the pair leave with confused looks on their faces.
Ealy and Tanner walked into the busy cafeteria, the smells of over cooked and greasy pizza reaching their noses, and Ealy wrinkled hers. She buried her face into his chest and breathed in his trademark scent; something between Axe, Irish Spring and some cologne that she couldn’t place. She sighed and looked up at him, he caught her eye and grinned showing his canines. Ealy laughed and flashed her own back.
“There they are.” Tanner pointed to the exit the farthest away. Sliding his arm off her shoulders, he clasped her hand and walked pointedly to the table.
Ealy nodded and walked in time with him. It was then that she remembered that she still her gloves on. The cafeteria patrol walked by; two teachers assigned to the grueling task of making sure that no one cut in line or started a food fight. Ealy looked straight ahead and clenched her hand tighter around Tanner’s, while the other hand disappeared up the sleeve of her jacket. Tanner noticed and smiled. “You can take care of those once we get to the table.” He said softly and Ealy nodded.
When they got to the table, Tanner waited for Ealy to sit before he sat down besides her. Reaching under the table, Ealy shed her gloves, and then stood, Tanner jumping to his feet. Ealy bowed her head slightly before she tucked the gloves into her back pocket then sat back down, Tanner waiting until she had sat down before he took his seat.
“Sister, where were you? I could have needed your support in Art. Mr Southers was giving me a hard time.” Jessica interrogated her.
Ealy grinned and laughed. Her soft laugh was gentle, but the undertones were evil. “Southers? That was your problem? He want you to put color in your picture again?” she asked her. She grinned and held up a hand and brought her fingers to her thumb and shook it vertically quickly before releasing her fingers as if letting something go. Tanner laughed deep and Tyson blushed quickly before controlling himself. Jessica looked quizzically to her friends. She had never seen ‘Slow Jerk.’
Ealy flashed her canines before asking, “What did you tell him? To fuck off I hope?” she looked to her sister, eyes bright and shining.
Jessica shook her head and Ealy’s face fell. “No, that’s what I first thought,” here Ealy grinned in pride, “But I found something that wouldn’t get me into trouble.” She looked to Tyson who started laughing, “Mr Southers said to put ‘a little’ color in my picture.” She paused and Ealy had a shit-eating grin on her face. Jessica continued, “I changed the eyes to anime style and colored them with pencil.”
Ealy laughed. “That’s the way sister. Now you’ve got it.” She made a rude British gesture, “Just do that the next time Southers gives you an order. I promise he won’t know what it is.” Her eyes were full of mischief.
Jessica shook her head, “But he’s British.” She said hesitantly. “He will know what it is.” She glared at her sister. “I’m not like you. I don’t look for trouble.”
Ealy laughed and winked at her sister, “Don’t need to. It finds me.” She thought about following Zain to the house. She shook her head and her eyes grew sad. “For some reason... bad things happen to good people around me. Situations that I can’t do anything about... Girls I can’t save. Families get torn apart because I’m not strong enough to handle their pain and cops who are afraid of pansy ass gangs.” She lowered her head and looked at her hands. The knuckles and the valleys between the knuckles scarred, red and swollen in places. Recent and past fights telling their stories.
Tanner put his arm around her shoulder again and hugged her close. “It’s alright love. I know you are stronger than you might think.” In an undertone, he whispered into her ear, “You couldn’t save that girl, even if you wanted to. She was already dead. SD is going to execute her tonight; a long and tortuous death. Don’t worry, stress or try to do anything about it. It’s not worth you dying for.” He kissed her head and then whispered in Irish, “I love you. I don’t want you ever to leave me. If you die, so do I.”
Ealy melted at his words and twitched slightly as well, “I know...but I...” she shook her head and looked into his eyes. I wanted to save her...but she wanted me to leave her to her fate. Why would she do that? Ealy asked him with her eyes, begging him to give her an answer that would make her restless soul at peace.
Tyson and Jessica watched the twin carefully. Torment showed in her eyes. Something that was rare. Ealy was always uncaring, all she ever cared about was the ones she loved being safe and free. Nothing but strength and power showed in her eyes. Tyson knew Ealy had skipped, but he didn’t know what she had done. Jessica had a fair idea, but she didn’t want to voice it.
Tanner looked back at her, his eyes softening into the loving form that they always were in when he was around Ealy. She knew that even if you rescued her, they would come after you. It’s better she commit suicide than see you get hurt. She was Asian, right, and she understood Japanese? Seppuku. She would rather that than mass suicide. She was protecting you my dearest Ealy. Respect that.
Ealy bowed her head to him and let one tear fall into her lap. When she looked up at him, her eyes were clear and strong again. “Thank you babe.” She responded in Irish. Tanner nodded and she turned to her sister. “Do me a favor next time you go to Art class?” she asked her twin, her accent strong. Making passersby take a second glance at her. When Jessica nodded, Ealy grinned. “Tell him that my piece is almost finished.” She winked at her sister, who frowned. “Southers has wanted something new from me, now I have it.”
Jessica looked at her curiously, “That morbid pencil sketch?” she asked, when Ealy nodded Jessica shook her head rapidly, “He won’t take that.”
Tanner looked at his girlfriend, “You draw?” he asked in surprise. When Ealy nodded, he laughed. “I want to see.”
Ealy grinned and winked at him, “I have to grab it from my bag.” She stood, and Tanner jumped to his feet again. Ealy smiled and walked out the door and into a hallway. She had fought for this locker in particular. It was in the roughest place. All the seniors had their claims on the top lockers, and since she was a freshman, she had fought for one of them. Opening it quickly, she pulled her sketchbook out and slammed her locker close, before returning to them.
When she came close, Tanner jumped to his feet, bumping his knee on the table. Ealy smiled and shook her head, “You don’t have to do that each and every time I approach babe.” She muttered to him in Irish.
Tanner shook his head, “It’s a sign of respect. Blame it on my Italian ways. We protect and respect our women.”
Ealy laughed and hugged him before she sat back down. She opened the pad and flipped past morbid drawings of an anime drawn woman standing before them, blood dripping out of her eyes, ears, mouth and nose. A bullet wound in her chest. At Tyson’s look she grimaced, “I’ve been having dreams about this.” She flipped past different variations.
Tanner’s stomach flipped at the one of a girl that was being held by what appeared to be her lover. “You dreamed all these?” he asked her quietly. When Ealy nodded, he got a sick feeling that resonated from his stomach all the way to his heart. He leaned down to whisper in her ear. “I have been having the same dreams.”
Ealy looked at him sharply, her eyes burning with strength. She softened her gaze and kissed him deeply. “Nothing is going to happen to me babe. I’m too strong- my spirit is too strong for that.” she went back to flipping pages until she came to the picture in question.
Tanner leaned closer to stare at it before he let out a hearty laugh, making people turn their heads, “That’s beautiful.” He said, his accent flaring.
Tyson tried to look at it upside down, so Ealy swirled the pad around. Tyson studied it for a minute then blushed and winced at the same time. “It looks painful.” He added, his golden eyes growing dark for a few moments; they showed the pain as if it real.
Ealy laughed as her sister peered at it and shook her head. “That’s brutal.” She looked away as if she couldn’t see it any more. Ealy laughed again, her eyes shining with amusement. Some of her drawings were subject to censoring and many adults hated them.
One of the cafeteria patrols walked by and noticed the pad. It was facing him and he bent over Jessica’s shoulder to stare at it. “Ms Karn. I would expect better from you.”
Ealy smiled and waved her hand in a loose salute, “Excuse me, but I’m the one who drew that.” she put on her shit-eating grin. “I have others, you want to see them?” She flipped the pad her way and flipped back to get to the most brutal of her dreams. It showed a girl who had a knife held to her throat and she was entirely naked. There were scars and burn wounds all over her arms and her breasts. A line of tears flowed down her cheeks. It was a very quick sketch, but the meaning of it was clear.
Tanner looked to his girlfriend, “You dreamed this too?” he asked her in Italian. His preferred language was Irish but stress and impulse made it go to the second.
Ealy nodded, “Yes. I did. This was last night’s dream.” She told him, replying in Irish, bringing him back to reality.
The man grimaced and shook his head. “Ealy, you need to see the counselor.” When Ealy sniggered and shook her head, he looked at her. “That girl has a resemblance of you. You do realize that, right?” he asked worriedly.
When Ealy nodded, she replied, her accent flaring, it coming out as junk English. “Yeah, I know. These are all dreams I’ve been having.” She looked up at him and started to flip the pages showing less and less morbid, but all revolving around death and torture. None of them involved rape, but Ealy figured that her dream tonight would be one like that.
The man shook his head, “Please come with me Ms Karn.” He held out his hand in a sign that she should follow him.
Ealy looked to Tanner who rose, “I’ll come with her, Sir.” When the man nodded, he put his hand on her back. Ealy sighed and rolled her eyes before gently closing the pad. “I’ll see you next period.” It was the only one that all of them were in at the same time. Tyson and Jessica nodded as Ealy followed Mr Hinder to the office.
Ms Vance rolled her eyes, “What happened this time, Ms Karn?” when she saw that Tanner was with her, she wanted to take back her words. Turning to the Mr Hinder she asked, “She finally cracked? You want me to get the Dr Jacobs?” When Mr Hinder nodded she disappeared, when she came back, her face was grim. “He is waiting for you, Ealy.”
Ealy looked at Tanner who clenched her hand in his and the pair of them walked into the small office that was right across the hall from the principal who was on someone’s ass about having sex in the halls. Ealy laughed softly and sat down on the comfortable couch. Tanner sat next to her and Ealy leaned her head on his shoulder.
Dr Jacobs came walking in, closing the door gently behind him. He had a round face, round glasses and a black beard peppered with grey. It matched his hair, cropped close and business style. “Mr O’Conner. How’s it going?” His voice was kind and smooth, not condescending; at least not yet.
Tanner shrugged, “Could be worse, I suppose.” He made sure to put his accent on hard. He loved fucking with Dr Jacobs as much as Ealy did.
Dr Jacobs shook his head and sat down at his desk. “Ms Karn- Ealy. What have you been up to?” he asked as he noticed the sketchpad in her arms.
Ealy looked at Tanner who nodded and she opened it up to the one that that Mr Hinder had seen. “I have been having these reoccurring dreams. They aren’t just dreams. They are premonitions.” She added the last part in Irish directed to Tanner, who looked at her before giving her a kiss full of love and caring. His eyes scanned hers and they spoke to her, I will never let anything happen to you. You should know this by now.
Ealy kissed him back and nodded, I know... but these dreams... I’m not scared of much, but these scare me.
Dr Jacobs took the pad from her and scanned it, his eyes filled with wisdom and understanding. “Ealy, this is just a phase you’re going through. This means nothing.” He looked at the picture with sadness. He flipped through the other pictures she had and noticed the ones that had one thing in common. The death of a girl that looked like her, “This could very well be your sister.” He spoke slowly and Ealy rose to her feet, Tanner rising with her.
“Don’t you ever say that! It is not my sister! It’s me!” she cried at him. Her accent now British, “My sister has never done anything to anger anyone. Me? I’ve got an enemy list from here to Japan.” She spoke in Japanese, the words lost to Dr Jacobs’s ears, the meaning, however clear. “If anything happens to my sister, I would kill the one who did it. I love my sister and I swore to protect her the day I turned five- the day that I met Tanner-kun. That is why I fight; out of protection! I will always stand between those who can hurt me and my friends, the ones I love and the ones who aren't strong enough to protect themselves. I love my sister and I love Tanner-kun. You know nothing Doctor. Please stay the fuck out of my life!” she grabbed the pad and stalked out of the office.
Tanner understood everything and he bowed low. “I’m sorry, Sir.” He said in Japanese before leaving.
Dr Jacobs sat in his office amazed. How one girl could could have so much anger in her. Fear. He saw her at the beginning of the year, the beginning of this year. She was resilient in what she did. He leaned back in his chair; making his hands steeple in thought. It would best to leave her alone.
Chapter 7
Ealy had managed to break away from Tanner and seemed to fly across the campus. She threw the pad into her locker and rushed to the track. Throwing her jacket on the damp grass, she began to run laps. She ran herself ragged until she collapsed knees first on the dirt track. She pounded her fists into the dirt, harder and harder until they began to bleed. Why? What if one of those was her sister, what would she do? She knew that she would never be naked before those who would do her harm. They would be dead before then. If they had her before her sister, they would be dead, but if they had Jessica before her. She shuddered; she would be their slave just so that her sister would be safe. It was the promise she had made when their parents had faded from their lives into their own. She promised that she would make sure nothing happened to her sister.
Tanner had followed her until her locker. He peeked into the window and saw Tyson and Jessica on their feet, ready to follow. He shook his head and bade them to stay. Tyson nodded and gently guided Jessica to the sub line, which had grown smaller. Tanner nodded before rushing to catch up to her. He could only guess that she had gone to the track. He ran down the set of stairs that led to the field, taking some of them two and three at a time.
When he made it, he saw her on her knees; a few people around her. Swearing under his breath, he rushed to her, grabbing her jacket as he did so. “Alright, folks, give her some air.” He said pushing his way to her. “My dear Ealy, get up Mo Shearc .” He said his accent flaring again. Ealy looked up at him, tears flowing down her face. Tanner turned to the rest of them. “Everyone, it’s time for you to leave.” The crowd parted and showed Ealy hunched in the dirt.
A voice breathed on the air, “So I guess the bitch do cry sometime.” Tanner turned around, and Derek was leaning against the fence, watching them. “You think with all the shit she’s been through she would be stronger.” He laughed cold and dark. “Tanner, you think she’ll be alright?” he asked, mock concern in his voice.
Ealy strained against Tanner’s strong hold to get to her feet. “I’m going to kick his fucking ass.” She growled low and menacingly. Tanner shook his head and told her firmly to stay where she was. Ealy huffed but stayed, only moving to look up at him. Her eyes and nose were blotchy, although her eyes were dry. All she really wanted to do was to finish what Derek had started in first period, but she listened and obeyed Tanner. His mouth tweaked up a little as if he was trying to smile and draped her jacket over her. He stood and walked over to Derek.
Derek was watching all this with a grin on his face, as if he was enjoying it. He raised his eyebrows as Tanner walked over. Tanner stopped inches from Derek. “If you or anyone else ever touches or hurts my girlfriend, her sister, her sister’s boyfriend or me. You will have hell to pay.” Tanner grabbed Derek by the collar and slammed him against the fence, the upper bar slamming into Derek’s lower back. “Understand?” He asked in Mexican. The only other word he knew was fucking bitch, he really didn’t want to piss this man off more than he had to.
Derek shoved him back and straightened his collar and shirts. “Yeah, completely.” He walked off muttering something in Mexican.
Tanner watched him leave before he returned to his girlfriend. “What was that all about?” he asked referencing to the outburst she had. Tanner helped her up.
Ealy shrugged off his hands before she realized it was her lover. She gladly accepted his help and once standing she pulled on her jacket, buttoning it with a flourish. “I hate shrinks, doctors, all of them.” She looked into his eyes as she added, “I’ve had problems with them since the day they found a neighbor kid beat up in our backyard.” She smiled grimly. “I was the one who did it, but he touched Jessica in the wrong way. And I had to punish him.” She shook her head. “He was mildly injured. I remember you saying that the dead don’t learn lessons. Broken lip and fractured ribs. I got away with it. Self-defense. But they made me go to a shrink, who quit a week after seeing me once.” Ealy laughed and hugged Tanner. “I’m hungry, let’s get something to eat.”
Tanner gazed at his girlfriend in amazement. For once, she had managed to astonish him. “Ealy!” he admonished before he started laughing. Once he controlled his deep laugh, he said thoughtfully. “I remember a boy not coming to school the next day, but I thought he had just gotten sick.” he reached down to nibble her neck, making her laugh. “You my dear... I’m going to have to punish you when I get home.”
Ealy looked at him and her eyes brightened, “We gonna go to Lover’s first?” she asked him, an evil glint in her eyes. Tanner laughed again and nodded. Ealy grinned and tackled him to the grass, nuzzling him she whispered in his ear, her accent lilting softly, “I love you Tanner.”
Tanner smiled and rolled her over so he was on top, “I love you too my sweet Ealy.” He dipped his head down to kiss her passionately. Moments faded into minutes and Ealy barely heard the bell ring. Tanner groaned against her lips and pulled back, making his girlfriend cry out in protest. “We have to go to class.” He told him sadly, getting off her and pulling her to her feet. A gust of wind came up, ruffling his shaggy hair and he turned into it. The wind got stronger and Tanner laughed before turning to his girlfriend. Smiling, he dipped his head down again and kissed her, Ealy getting up on her toes to kiss him back. The wind settled and she sighed contentedly. Tanner grabbed her hand and the pair of them went back to the cafeteria to meet up with Jessica and Tyson.
Chapter 8
Ealy dropped by her locker to grab her sketchpad and backpack, Tanner leaning against one of the lockers and watching her with amusement. “You don’t need that for P.E. you know.” He muttered softly. Ealy nodded before swinging her bag over one shoulder. She clasped his hand before joined their friends.
As soon as Jessica saw her sister, she moved faster than Ealy thought was possible. A tight hug and a kiss on the forehead, “You alright, Ealy?” she asked, worry and stress showed clearly on her face and eyes.
Ealy nodded, “Yeah, I am.” She hugged her sister back just as tightly. For that one moment, she was happy she had a twin. Leaning into her, Ealy whispered in her ear, “I love you Jessica-kun.” It was in English, but her accent was Japanese. She stepped back to stand by Tanner’s side before smiling slightly.
Jessica smiled and tilted her head down in a slight bow. She reached behind her and grabbed the wrapped uneaten sandwiches that were lying there. “We figured you wouldn’t have time to eat.” She handed them to both Tanner and Ealy.
Tanner grinned, “Thanks Jess.” He said accepting both of them. He handed the one that had an ‘E’ on it to his girlfriend. He unwrapped his and tucked in as the cafeteria patrol began to shoo the stragglers out of the cafeteria. Tanner swallowed and laughed shortly, “Let’s go, we don’t want to be written up.” He put his other hand on Ealy’s back and the four made their way to the gym.
As they walked along the corridors, several Mexican men were following them and Ealy dropped back to allow Jessica and Tyson to walk ahead of them. Tanner noticed and clenched his hands by his sides. He glanced at Ealy, If they want a fucking fight, we’ll give it to them. He told her with his eyes.
Ealy nodded and responded back, just as passionately. I will stay and fight them; you take Jessica and Tyson to class. At Tanner’s look, she bowed her head slightly, We fight together. Tanner smiled; leaning down to kiss her and Ealy received the kiss, cupping his head down to her. The kiss ended and they paid attention to what was going on again.
Part of Derek’s gang pushed past them, bumping Jessica and Tyson’s shoulders roughly. Ealy bristled at them touching them in such a manner, but she relaxed at Tanner’s gentle touch on her shoulder.
The friends cut through a small-forested area that shielded the track from the gym. Tanner was a head of them and Ealy bringing up the rear. Her boots silent among the dead leaves, twigs and branches that had fallen from the recent windstorm.
Jessica looked behind her and noticed that her sister was stealthier than she had ever been. She fell back so she could talk to her. “Ealy? What’s the matter?” she asked in a hushed voice. It sounded louder than it was in this deathly silent place.
Ealy shook her head and looped her arm with her sisters, “Don’t worry about it, Jessica-kun.” She smiled at her sister, her eyes mirrored; although they showed the strength and power that her sister’s lacked. Her sister’s eyes showed fear, hesitance and respect. She spoke low and in English, and remained on the ground, walking softly, though she wanted to climb the nearest tree and see how things looked aerial.
They reached the gym before too long and Ealy kissed Tanner shortly and waited while Jessica did the same with Tyson. She gave her loose salute before opening the door and allowing her twin to enter first. Jessica looked at her quizzically, but walked inside first.
“We’ll get you soon enough chica.” The crude murmur was deaf on all ears, but Ealy heard it loud and clear. She looked around and growled low in her throat before entering the locker rooms.
Ealy and her sister had lockers right next to each other. As the other girls walked by they watched as the twins moved in unison, it was not only that, but their bodies were identical, with the exception of the two puncture marks that were on the upper part of Ealy’s breast. It looked as though she was a willing partner for a vampire.
Ealy pulled on her shorts, and the tank top that showed off those marks. She glanced at her sister who had pulled on a more moderate outfit. Sweat pants and a more conservative tank top. Ealy rolled her eyes and pulled her hair up into two buns. They fanned over her shoulders. “Come on. Let’s go.”
Jessica grabbed her arm, “Ealy...” she sighed, “Your collar.” She said, pointing to the spiked collar that made her look like a walking weapon.
Jessica reached out to grab it as they walked out to line up for roll call and Ealy grabbed her hand, “No. It stays on.” She dropped her sister’s hand and walked over to Tanner, who was wearing a tight black tank top; that showed more than enough muscles to make her mouth water and her thoughts stray. A pair of black and red basketball shorts and a matching pair of all stars completed his look.
Tanner grinned and hugged her close, kissing the top of her head. He pulled on the loop that was on her collar. “I’m gonna have to take care of this later.” He grinned again and dipped his head down so he could kiss her properly.
Ealy laughed low and deep and kissed him back. The teacher came out and they lined up according to last name. Ealy was before Jessica, but she always wanted to wig the teacher out. The only real difference between the two was their eyes and Ealy wanted to see if Mr Cobb could tell. Therefore, she switched places with her sister. Jessica rolled her eyes and protested a little before Ealy glared at her and then winked. Jessica sighed and bowed her head a little. This caused a few titters. Ealy grinned at the rest of them before remaining silent.
Mr Cobb walked slowly down the line, checking off names. He came to stand before the two. “Jessica, Ealy.” He paused and looked up. He stared into Ealy’s eyes. “No, no...” he shook his head and reached out to grab the loop on her collar, and Ealy glared at him. “You’re Ealy.” He withdrew his hand at her glare, even backed up a little. “That’s your sister.” He looked down to mark it in his book and in that span of time, Ealy switched back. When he looked up, he frowned and erased his mark before marking both twins present. Ealy laughed low in her throat. Mr Cobb shook his head and went down the line.
After he labeled them all present, they chose to go outside and play football or stay inside to take aerobics with Ms Myers. Most of the girls went off with her. Ealy followed Tanner outside and Jessica stood in the middle of the gym wondering what she was going to do. After a moments hesitation she followed Ealy out to the cold and damp grass. A light drizzle was falling and Jessica shivered slightly.
By the time, she had joined them, they had already picked out the teams; they were even and Jessica frowned slightly. Ealy waved to her and ran over, the football tugged under one arm. “Sit on the bleachers and stay warm.” She told her sister hugging her. She turned and threw the ball to one of the men. “I’m going to go play.” Ealy winked at her sister and lined up.
Jessica sighed and sat on the bleachers, huddling forward. She wondered why her sister always wanted to be with the men. She supposed it was because she liked to play roughly. She laughed at that as it started to pour.
Ealy ran down the field as Tanner threw the ball, spiraling it towards her. Cody ran for her. His dirty blonde hair sopping wet, the light curls clinging to the sides of his head. Ealy saw him coming and she leapt gracefully, catching the ball before landing as a cat, the ball resting in the crook of her arm, one knee on the grass, and the other hand on the ground as well. She grinned and winked at him before she raced across the line that they had made for goals.
Cody didn’t stop when he saw her cross the finish. One hundred and fifty five pounds hit her with the force of a semi truck. Ealy gasped and fell hard to the ground, the ball bouncing away. Tanner looked up in time to see Ealy fall and he yelled out, “Hey man! That’s not cool!” he took off running for his girlfriend as Jessica left the safety of the bleachers to rush to her twin.
Cody had his hand on her throat, “The thing I hate more than a bitch that kicked Derek’s ass is the bitch that kicked my ass in football. No pussies should be on the field.” He growled low in his throat. He was slowly choking her.
Ealy’s eyes blazed brightly, though they were dark. “Get your mother-fucking hands off my throat.” She growled back as best as she could. Her growl was as feral as she was.
Cody balked a little but kept on squeezing. “I should kill you right now. It would solve all our problems.” Adam, Frank and Randy circled her, they were all part of Derek’s little pansy ass gang.
Ealy growled low again. “You better get those hands off my neck.” Cody let go and Ealy pushed herself to her feet before fixing her shirt and her pants. “That’s more like it, good boy.” She patted him on the head before standing all the way up. She turned to look at a distressed Tanner. Ealy winked and mouthed ‘I love you’. Tanner sighed with relief and turned his back.
Ealy started to walk towards him when her arms twisted behind her back painfully. She let out a cat-like yelp. “Tan-!” she started to cry before a hand covered her mouth.
The sun was peeking over the horizon, making the sky the color of diluted blood. To the east, it looked like the trees and sky was on fire- to the west- a bloody battlefield. Ealy’s eyes fluttered open, her alarm had been going off for a while and This is the New Shit was blaring. Fully conscience, she realized she had been singing along with it while she had slept.
Ealy rolled over on her stomach and groaned, “I fucking hate Monday school mornings.” She said into her pillow. She pondered that comment before adding in her head, ~I fucking hate school~
Bright sunlight spilled into room and Ealy hissed as the bright light pierced her dark cave. “Jessica... warn me next time.” She groaned before rolling over to look at her sister.
Jessica smiled sheepishly before saying, “Good morning.” She was already dressed right down to her All Stars- traditional black and white. A loose jacket fell over her shoulders and her damp hair combed though ruffled. “Come on Sis. Get ready or we’ll miss the bus.”
Ealy loved her sister with all her heart, but at times...At times, she could be a pain in the ass. “Jess, I don’t want to go.” She said growling low in her throat. “The teachers all need to take the tampons out of their asses.”
Jessica’s eyes shined with amusement. Picking up both their parents genes for eyes, she had double the color. Her left eye was an amazing form of emerald green. They would have loved her at the Emerald City. Her right was an electric blue- her brown hair emphasizing it. “Ealy come on. Get up. Bus gets in here in forty-five minutes.” she turned to leave. “You know if you don’t go, you won’t see Tanner.” She grinned at her sibling before she left.
Ealy’s eyes flew open, blazing bright. Her eyes were the opposite of Jessica’s but they held more intensity than her sister’s. “That was low.” She growled again, groaning as she rolled out of bed. Her features were identical to Jessica’s. A lithe and athletic form, perky C breasts and a round firm ass.
She stood to watch her twin leave and shook her head as she walked to the door at the right of her bed, “She’s going to be the death of me.” She muttered, opening the door, which lead to a bathroom.
Ealy took a hot shower, letting the water run over her face and down her back before she washed her hair with the same cherry blossom shampoo her sister did. Stepping out of the shower, she pulled a black and red towel off the rack; drying herself with it before wrapping it around her body.
Once back in her own room, Ealy shook out her hair before combing it; water droplets scattered over everything as she shook it again. Closing the blinds she turned on her overhead light. Wake Me Up When September Ends began playing and Ealy sang softly to it, her voice lilting with a slight unrecognizable accent.
She slid on a pair of black Dickies, black bra, a black Flogging Molly shirt and a long black corsair style jacket; complete with buttons and white ruffles along the cuffs and collar. Ealy pulled her hair back before snapping a spiked collar into place. Glancing in the mirror, she grinned before bending down to tug on a pair of Doc Martin’s.
There was a knock on the door and she answered without even looking. “Jess, don’t be such a kill joy.” She finished tying her laces and looked up, Tanner!” she cried running to him, “You walked here, didn’t you?” she glared at him playfully before planting a kiss on his cheek.
Tanner beamed, “Good morning to you too.” he hugged her tightly before nibbling on her neck slightly. He was a foot taller than her, so he was able to kiss the top of her head- which he did.
Ealy stepped back and looked him up and down with the eyes of a wild cat. Her left eye grew a brighter shade of electric blue, now making it almost clear. Her green eye barely shining, seeming to turn all she looked at a shade of light green. Coming back down off the trance, Ealy reached for her black Jansport backpack. “You riding with us?” she asked him in English.
Tanner nodded and replied with fluent Irish, “Yes, Babe. Your sister called me. Tyson is already downstairs.” He winked one of his deep sea green eyes at her before clasping her hand in his. Ealy shook it once, and then the pair of them walked downstairs.
Jessica smiled as she heard the comment and went down to the first floor. She loved her twin with all her heart; it was to the point where if anything happened to her, she wouldn’t know what to do. She’d be essentially lost without her.
Jessica pulled her small, simple silver Nokia out of her pocket to call Tyson before texting Tanner to come over. They lived just down the street, but she figured her sister could use a friendly face first thing in the morning.
Five minutes later, the doorbell rang and Jessica went to answer it, opening the door she smiled wide. “Tyson!” she hugged him tightly and looked over his shoulder to see Tanner. He was the protective Goth Irish/Italian that Ealy had claimed when they first met the two men.
Both Jessica and her sister had been five; starting Kindergarten, when they met Tyson and Tanner. Tyson had been the shy one; seeing Jessica on the first day, he shied to Tanner’s side. Tanner had laughed and patted his shoulder. He was much older than his age. Being the son of one of the one of the top five wealthiest Mafia mob bosses, an under lord, Tanner had become jaded even before he reached his teen years. It was because of this that no one touched with Ealy.
Tanner was rolling in money before he even knew the value of it. As such, he pampered and spoiled Ealy every time he saw her; bringing gifts to Jessica as well. Gifts that were just as costly as the ones he gave to his girl.
Tyson came from a wealthy family as well, although they always protected him. It was for that reason that the first real fight Tyson had taken part in (courtesy of Tanner) had given him a wicked scar through his left eye. The man, who gave it to him, later found dead, in an alley; broken kneecaps and a bullet execution style in the head.
After Tanner had struck up a conversation with the two sisters, Tyson had stuck by Jessica’s side and had never left. Tanner had been so protective of Ealy that when another girl said something mean to her and made Ealy tear up, Tanner had shoved the girl to the ground and split her lip. After that, Ealy had accepted Tanner’s mannerisms and became the tough Goth she was today and learned how to fight later that week from Tanner.
Jessica turned to Ealy, “You ready?” she noticed the look in her eyes and held up a hand. “Alright alright. I get it.”
Ealy looked at Tanner who grinned, he motioned with his head to follow her sister and then the four of them went to catch the bus.
Chapter 2
Ealy sat down on the grey seats groaning. Tanner sat next to her and smiled, “Come on, my sweet dear Ealy. School ain’t all that bad.” He whispered into her ear, his Irish accent catching up with him.
Ealy just leaned her head on his shoulder and sighed, “You’re here with me babe. That’s all I can ever ask.” She replied to him.
Jessica and Tyson appeared on the seats across the isle. “It’s only eight hours sis.” Jessica tried to cheer her up. Her sister moaned again in Tanner’s shoulder and he exchanged a look with Tyson.
Tanner kissed the top of his girlfriend’s head and rode in silence while his best friend and his own girl talked quietly.
The bus ride wasn’t very long, just tortuous for Ealy. As the four friends got off, Ealy made an obscene Irish gesture to the bus driver who responded by saying, Have a nice day you four.” Ealy laughed, her eyes darkening and an evil smile playing on her lips. Tanner noticed it and he chuckled, “I know, I know.” He rubbed her back.
Chapter 3
Jessica waved and kissed good-bye to Tyson at her first period class. Tanner hugged and kissed his own girlfriend as the four split up. Jessica looked to Ealy, “Come on sister. It can’t be all that bad.” She said quietly in Japanese as they walked into Mr Kobald’s English Class.
Ealy turned to glare at her and responded, her Japanese more fluent, smooth and clear. “With the exception of you, Ryu-sensei, Tanner-kun and Tyson-kun; I would not come at all.” She plopped in the seat closest to the door and the wall.
Jessica smiled and shook her head as she sat at her left. Grabbing spiral and a pen, she sat attentively, waiting for class to begin.
Ealy rolled her eyes, pulling a black iPod touch out of her bag and started to listen to Fuck You I’m Drunk. Closing her eyes, she listened to the lyrics and beat.
A tap on her shoulder made her open her electric blue eye. It was glowing brightly. “What the fuck do you want?” she growled in Japanese. It became fluent to the point where it was as if she had lived with the language all her life.
The man who was standing over her chuckled, amusement reaching his beady black eyes making them shine. “Try that in English?” he said in a manner that made Ealy get up while changing the song to You’re Going Down.
“Oh so you can move.” The man added in a voice laced with humor.
Ealy turned the music up and clenched her hands into fists, “You are a fucking prick, if I wasn’t at school, I’d fucking kick your ass.” She growled again, her voice low and guttural, though her Japanese was dead on.
Immediately Jessica was between them. “Sit down, Ealy-kun.” She ordered in broken Japanese, something that only happened when she stressed. To the man she said in English, “Derek, not here.”
Derek looked to Ealy who was still standing, though listening to Sound of Madness, then back to her timid sister. “Pfft, ain’t worth my time,” He put his hand into a loose fist, lifting Jessica’s chin to stare into her eyes. “I would love to gaze into these pretty little things for a long time.” He grinned crudely and dropped her chin. He looked at Ealy. That was his first mistake.
Ealy ripped the headphones out of her ears and dropped her Touch on the desk. “Don’t you fucking touch her.” She grabbed him by his throat, right above his gang tattoo. Old school font spelled out South Side Demons; it was right along his collarbone and was visible from the wife beater that he wore under his open button up top. “That English enough for you?” she began squeezing at the vital points.
Derek laughed as best as he could. “Oh, now I see.” He choked out, “She’s sub; you’re the dom. Kinky.” He stared into her eyes as he began to wheeze. That was his second mistake.
Ealy’s eyes flared. “Fucking prick.” she said calmly in English. She kicked his knees out. Now he was on his knees before her.
With his last gasp of air, he grinned and added, “I don’t normally sub, but for you... consider it done.” That was his last and final mistake. He looked at Jessica who was shocked as was everyone else in the room.
Their classmates knew that Ealy had a short fuse; that if anyone fucked with her or her sister, they would get scared shitless. However, no one actually provoked it.
Ealy glared at him before bending down, “I will have your balls if you ever say a crude comment about either of us or touch her in any form.” She whispered menacingly into his ear. “I don’t need to remind you what would happen if you touch me.” She reached up with her free hand and formed a fist to knock him out when a hand caught her arm.
Ealy whipped her head around and glared at the person foolish enough to attempt touching her. “Ealy-kun, drop him- now.”
Ealy heard the voice speaking in Native Japanese and squeezed one last time before she threw Derek to the floor. He landed with a thud.
As soon as the new face dropped her arm, Ealy bowed formally; shocking the class further. She never showed respect to anyone but her sister, Tyson, her boyfriend and a young man named Ryu.
“Forgive me Ryu-sensei.” Ealy said in fluent Japanese. “He touched my sister.” She added.
Ryu nodded, “Get up Ealy-san. I understand that you were protecting her. But you went too far.” He replied.
Ealy rose slowly before she lowered her head in an additional sign of respect. “Yes Sensei. I know.” She intoned before walking back to her seat. Ealy didn’t look around the class, but plug in- still listening to Skillet.
Ryu whispered something to Jessica in broken English. Jessica whimpered and nodded before sitting down too. He walked slowly to the seat in front of Ealy and leaned against the wall, with his back to it; resting his feet on the seat besides him.
Derek had been coughing up until now. He rose up to his side before placing his hands firmly on the ground and hoisting himself up. “Bitch is loco.” He muttered, his Mexican accent flaring. Ealy twitched, but didn’t move further. “I’ll kill you and your sister one day.” He threatened before swaggering to his seat at the third row.
Ealy laughed and said in Japanese directed to both Ryu and Jessica. “If I had a yen for every time someone said that.... I wouldn’t have to go to school anymore.”
Jessica laughed because she was nervous and Ryu shook his head and replied in his native language. “You should still be careful, Ealy-kun. Derek-san is a dangerous man.” He used the endearment from of her name this time. Ealy bowed her head in acknowledgement before closing her eyes again.
Mr Kobald walked in and started his regular lecture before assigning a creative writing project due in a week. Ealy sniggered and rolled her eyes while Jessica religiously took notes.
Chapter 4
The next period was Art and Ealy ditched to go hang out with a few of her friends. Jessica watched her go sadly before walking to her art class. She had been working on a portrait of her, Tyson, Tanner and her sister. It was going to be displayed in the halls after she had finished with it. She was talented; several people enjoyed seeing her draw full body or simple headshots of them; either in real life format, Chibi or anime style.
As Jessica walked over the threshold, she saw her canvas standing at the head of the class. The charcoal and pencil drawing was attracting attention. Jessica walked up to it and brought it to an easel at the back of the class. “Ms Karn.” Jessica looked up to see her teacher, Mr Southers coming over to her.
“Hello Sir.” She said as she got out her pencils and a straight razor. She began to sharpen her pencil. “What can I do for you?” she asked as she began to sketch her boyfriend in jeans and a t-shirt.
Mr Southers frowned slightly. “Is that just going to be charcoal and pencil or are you going to make it have a little color?” he asked her firmly. It was more of a rhetorical question. He hated any of his pupils having a drawing without color.
Jessica frowned and looked at the painting. She thought what her sister would say and grimaced. That would definitely get her sent to the principal’s office. She grinned before she thought of something else her sister would say. “I’ll add a little color Sir.” She smiled up at him. Mr Southers nodded in satisfaction and left her alone.
Jessica laughed and pulled out an iPod shuffle, listening to her mix of pop songs. She hummed along with it and added the final changes to Tyson’s outfit. She stood up and stepped back to see it from far away. The faces were perfect; the strength showed on her sister’s face and Tanner’s the innocence in both Tyson and her eyes showed as well. Jessica sat back down and adjusted the eyes to make them anime style. Taking out her colored pencils, she colored them. Making Ealy and her boyfriend’s more solid and her own and Tyson’s loose and full of life. She grinned at the result and then took a sharpie to sign her name at the bottom corner.
She put it with the rest of the paintings and drawings that had gotten the privilege of being out in the halls. Jessica sat back down at her desk and took out some printer paper to doodle a short comic of her boyfriend and her in danger and Ealy coming to save them. She snorted and started laughing at how idiotic it was. Tanner wouldn’t be far behind; and besides, Ealy had begun to teach her how to fight. Jessica started the comic over, this time making sure she kicked his ass. While Tyson stood back with a satisfying look on his face. Pausing she erased it and put instead a look of both wonder and fear. As if he wanted to help, but was afraid she might get hurt worse.
“My my my... Bitch’s sister does have talent.” A voice whispered in her ear. The Mexican accent was but a whisper on his breath.
A creepy and perverted aura surrounded her and Jessica flinched and kept drawing. “You really shouldn’t say those words you know.” She said quietly, still drawing the doodle, before absentmindedly drawing a picture of a cat sunning himself on a rug in front of a window.
Derek was besides her in the empty chair, “What, you think you could take me.” It was more of a statement than a question.
Jessica kept drawing the cat, changing the sex and him into a Neko. “I never said that Derek.” Her skin was crawling. “All I know is that when push comes to shove I can take care of myself moderately.” She shivered slightly before making the cat’s ear twitch as he snoozed.
Derek laughed coldly and darkly. “One day we’ll have to put that to the test.” He patted her shoulder before walking out of the class. He only came for roll call then left. All the teachers and students were scared of him, with the exception of Ealy and Tanner. Derek was the second in command of the most powerful gang in their city.
As soon as he left, Jessica pulled out her cell and texted a warning to Ealy. There was a reply right away. ‘Don’t worry about him, sis. Tanner and I will look after you. You should know that...’ Jessica clenched the phone to her chest, before bringing it up to her lips to kiss it. “I love you Ealy-kun.” She whispered in Japanese.
Chapter 5
Ealy had left her sister at second period hesitantly. She would rather stick by her side, but the art teacher gave her the creeps. Besides, he probably wouldn’t like the picture she was drawing now. Her skill wasn’t as good as her sister’s, but it was second best. She was drawing a morbid cartoon with blood, and a little violence. Someone was being sexually assaulted and the boyfriend was slowly cutting off his dick after he kicked the man’s ass. She grinned as she thought of it; the picture was safe in the drawing pad in her backpack. Her friends, Karin, Zeza and Zain were going to the old haunted house just down the street. There were stories of screams coming from the upstairs rooms late at night. Ealy knew what they were. They were women that the Southside Demons had abducted and were torturing before raping and kicking to the curb. Nothing new there. She, however, wanted to go anyways, so now she followed her friends, with Zain leading the way. He had claimed Karin and Zeza back in middle school. He wanted to make his own harem and was getting close.
Once through the back door, they were in a mudroom. She looked around and saw that the place was deserted. The SD were either skipping school or in classes that they had to be in. “Too quiet, too quiet.” She muttered softly in Japanese. When Karin looked at her, she gave her a grim smile. “Zain. Watch your girls. They are the SD’s type. If there’s any lurking around here, they will be the first to go.” She paused before showing a flash of canines that looked like fangs when she grinned evilly, “They will make you watch.”
Zain looked at Ealy from his ever-changing eyes. At moments, they were a soft purple, at other times they were a brown so dark you thought they were black. Now they changed to that form of brown. “What about you?” he asked her, his voice gruff, concern hiding at the end. He scanned the mudroom, his shaggy Emo style hair getting into his eyes.
Ealy shrugged and walked closer, showing him that she wasn’t kidding. Her green eye growing dark, her blue one almost robotic, “They will try and torture me. Try to make me scream. When they can’t they will probably kill me and dump me somewhere.” She shrugged again and touched his shoulder. “If you want, I’ll make sure this place is clear before we venture any farther in.” When Zain shook his head and got that look into his eyes as if he could take care of himself and his girls, Ealy nodded and sighed sadly. “It’s all on you, man.” She reached behind her to pull out a pair of gloves that jingled slightly. At Zain’s look, she showed them to him, “I bought these gloves and modified them to look like Zell’s from Final Fantasy 8. She grinned and tugged them on. “Granted they aren’t as bad ass, but the bits of metal on the knuckles have got me out of several binds.”
Zain tilted his head and guided his girls into the kitchen while Ealy trailed slightly behind. She caught her reflection in a full body mirror, which was cracked, and saw her gloves clashing with her corsair jacket. What did her sister always say? Protection before fashion? On the other hand, was it comfort before fashion? She could never keep up with her sister’s sayings. Somehow, the second one sounded better. “Ealy!” Zain’s cry made her rush quickly and silently into the kitchen.
The kitchen had a grimy feel to it and Ealy shuddered shortly before looking to Zain who was squatting facing a corner. She made her way quietly to him. “What is it?” she asked making him jump. Zain stepped back to reveal a girl who was tied up. Ealy stopped and clenched her teeth. Her eyes darkened; the blue an indigo and the green a very dark jade, “Fuckers.” She growled with such ferocity that Zain and the two girls back up a little. Her eyes softened just as quickly, showing the three friends how much Ealy could change. She stepped forward and squatted, her knees never touching the sticky and red tinted tiled floor. She spoke first in Japanese. “Hello, Little Bit.” She addressed the girl who she could only guess was at least fifteen. When the girl raised her head, Ealy saw that she was an Asian who was thirteen. She would have been a very pretty girl, if not for the smudges on her cheeks and her hair ratted and mussed. “Can you speak?” she asked again, the words sounding foreign to Zeza and Karin. Zain had spent enough time around her to understand most of what she said. The girl shook her head and shook slightly. Ealy noticed that she was naked, and tied with her hands above her to a radiator. “Get out of here.” She spoke in English; she didn’t turn to make sure they did; their footsteps telling her that they were departing. “I’m going to help you, alright?” she reached into her pocket and flicked open a stiletto switchblade. It had been a fourteenth birthday present from Tanner. He had showed her a site where she could make her own. She did and it was her baby. Dark rosewood handle and polished Kris blade that she made sure was sharp every night. The blade was six inches. She hadn’t used it yet, but the man that she used it on would be sorry that he had fucked with her. It felt light in her hands weighing only eight ounces. Ealy looked to the girl. “Relax, Shika-kun. I’ll get you out of here.” She said in Japanese, calling her deer for the way her eyes grew wide and she froze as if she was a deer in the headlights.
“No...Please just leave me here...they’ll be back soon.” The girl spoke rapidly, her voice still light and child-like. Shika shook her head and pleaded with Ealy. “Just leave me here...please.” she added. “My parents won’t worry about me. They never wanted me.” She confessed.
Ealy considered still taking her down but she bowed her head low, she would respect her wish. Snapping the knife closed she put her hand on the girl’s cheek. “We shall see you soon. When I grow older, I will look for a baby that reminds me of a deer. That will be Shika-kun.” She smiled and kissed the girl’s head. Ealy believed in reincarnation.
Shika managed a small smile before bowing her head as well. “Now go! Before they come and do what they did to me. Protect your friends.” She commanded.
Ealy pocketed her knife and nodded. She turned on her heel and walked quickly though silent, as though she were stalking a small animal. She heard a call and she raced through to the mudroom again, clamping her hand over Zain’s mouth firmly. “Not a word.” She whispered violently in English. “They are on their way here.” She slid her hand back into her pocket and touched her knife, comforted by the thought that it was still there. “We need to go back to school.” She turned to the girls. “Can you run?” she asked. When they nodded, she pointed to the strip of trees that made a fence on the left side of the house. “The school is that way. Run.” When the girls ran, she turned to Zain. “Never come back to this house again. Understand?” she told him, still speaking in English. Her accent flaring again, no one really could figure out what it was. It was definitely foreign, but since she had lived in the states all her life; none could guess.
Zain nodded, “Yes, I do.” He looked over her shoulder, “What happened to the girl?” he asked. When Ealy shook her head slightly Zain sighed. “Well you tried.” He touched her arm. “You did what you could.” He told her comfortingly, but Ealy’s mood didn’t improve.
It was only when they were headed back to the campus did Ealy speak again, this time in Japanese. “One day, Derek-chan. You will be in pain, and I will laugh and bathe in your blood.” She said it audibly and Zain balked, his face turning white, his eyes a very light purple. Ealy glanced at him and grinned, “Ah so you understand more than you let on, huh?” she asked in English. When he nodded, she smiled again flashing her canines and he stopped walking to put more space between them. Ealy noticed and laughed as her phone buzzed in her jeans pocket. “You think I’m a vampire?” she smiled wide and pointed, “These aren’t fangs. They are just canines. I don’t brush them. I prefer them to be sharp.” She laughed low and deep as she slid her blood red Blackberry open to read her text. “Mother fucker.” She whispered in Italian. She replied to it before tucking it away. “We have to hurry Zain-kun.” She told her friend, speaking in Japanese, “Let’s run.” She took off, despite her clothes at a fast and steady pace, Zain trying to catch up.
Chapter 6
It was already lunch, so Ealy gave Zain a loose salute and went off to find her boyfriend and her sister. Zain watching her leave with a mixture of fear and respect. He had seen and found out more about her than he really wanted to. He wandered off as well to find his two girls, who were hiding in the girl’s bathroom, cowering and holding each other as they cried.
Ealy found her boyfriend first; he was talking to a few of his male friends- most likely about the Raiders kicking Seattle’s ass in the recent football game. She had unbuttoned her jacket, so it billowed out from the strong breeze that came up. However, seeing how her element was wind, it was no surprise. “Tanner...” she whispered in his ear. Tanner shuddered and turned around. Ealy wasn’t there. He closed his eyes, reached out to his right, and caught her by the neck. “I’ve found you babe.” He grinned showing a flash of sharp canines.
Ealy breathed in sharply at his light touch on her neck. “Well done.” She smiled and walked into his chest, her neck still held. Tanner brought her up to her toes, which Ealy did willingly to kiss him passionately. There were cheer and kissing noises from his friends, but the couple ignored them. It was only when Tanner released her neck did Ealy push him to the ground. She quickly straddled him and smiled around the kiss. Tanner didn’t even flinch as he hit the pavement. He wormed in some tongue and Ealy reach between her legs to cup him.
A whistle sounded and Ealy rolled her eyes as she kept kissing her boyfriend. The whistle sounded again and an annoying voice said, “Cut it out you too. You know the rules of PDA. That is-”
Ealy raised a hand and flipped her off before continuing to kiss Tanner. He chuckled under her and opened his eyes, Ealy doing the same. You know you are going to be sent to the office again.
Ealy could hear him say it, even though she was just looking into his eyes. Yes, but do I care? She responded, not saying a word, though stopping the kiss. Tanner chuckled again and pulled himself up, hands on her waist. His muscles rippling under her made Ealy moan with longing. “Come on, babe. Give Mrs Finch what she wants.” He murmured, melting Ealy with his Irish accent, which he put on thick. Ealy nodded and climbed off him.
Ealy turned to look at Mrs Finch, the librarian. Her beady black eyes peered at her, waiting for her to say something else so she could go on her power trip. She was skinny, and the only part of her that had any fat on her was her face. Ealy looked at her with distain before making a very awkward and stiff bow. “Forgive me Finch-sensei.” She said in Japanese, but Tanner cleared his throat and Ealy rose, rolling her eyes. “I’m sorry Ma’am.”
Mrs Finch nodded once and walked away, back to the library, which was next to the cafeteria. The way she walked was bird-like. Her name was probably just a fluke, a coincidence.
Tanner laughed and lay flat against the pavement before flipping himself up. “Was that so hard, my dear?” he asked her, putting his arm around her shoulders. At her look, Tanner gave a low chuckle and nibbled her neck, making her moan softly for him. “Come on. Let’s find your sister.” He waved good-bye to his friends who watched the pair leave with confused looks on their faces.
Ealy and Tanner walked into the busy cafeteria, the smells of over cooked and greasy pizza reaching their noses, and Ealy wrinkled hers. She buried her face into his chest and breathed in his trademark scent; something between Axe, Irish Spring and some cologne that she couldn’t place. She sighed and looked up at him, he caught her eye and grinned showing his canines. Ealy laughed and flashed her own back.
“There they are.” Tanner pointed to the exit the farthest away. Sliding his arm off her shoulders, he clasped her hand and walked pointedly to the table.
Ealy nodded and walked in time with him. It was then that she remembered that she still her gloves on. The cafeteria patrol walked by; two teachers assigned to the grueling task of making sure that no one cut in line or started a food fight. Ealy looked straight ahead and clenched her hand tighter around Tanner’s, while the other hand disappeared up the sleeve of her jacket. Tanner noticed and smiled. “You can take care of those once we get to the table.” He said softly and Ealy nodded.
When they got to the table, Tanner waited for Ealy to sit before he sat down besides her. Reaching under the table, Ealy shed her gloves, and then stood, Tanner jumping to his feet. Ealy bowed her head slightly before she tucked the gloves into her back pocket then sat back down, Tanner waiting until she had sat down before he took his seat.
“Sister, where were you? I could have needed your support in Art. Mr Southers was giving me a hard time.” Jessica interrogated her.
Ealy grinned and laughed. Her soft laugh was gentle, but the undertones were evil. “Southers? That was your problem? He want you to put color in your picture again?” she asked her. She grinned and held up a hand and brought her fingers to her thumb and shook it vertically quickly before releasing her fingers as if letting something go. Tanner laughed deep and Tyson blushed quickly before controlling himself. Jessica looked quizzically to her friends. She had never seen ‘Slow Jerk.’
Ealy flashed her canines before asking, “What did you tell him? To fuck off I hope?” she looked to her sister, eyes bright and shining.
Jessica shook her head and Ealy’s face fell. “No, that’s what I first thought,” here Ealy grinned in pride, “But I found something that wouldn’t get me into trouble.” She looked to Tyson who started laughing, “Mr Southers said to put ‘a little’ color in my picture.” She paused and Ealy had a shit-eating grin on her face. Jessica continued, “I changed the eyes to anime style and colored them with pencil.”
Ealy laughed. “That’s the way sister. Now you’ve got it.” She made a rude British gesture, “Just do that the next time Southers gives you an order. I promise he won’t know what it is.” Her eyes were full of mischief.
Jessica shook her head, “But he’s British.” She said hesitantly. “He will know what it is.” She glared at her sister. “I’m not like you. I don’t look for trouble.”
Ealy laughed and winked at her sister, “Don’t need to. It finds me.” She thought about following Zain to the house. She shook her head and her eyes grew sad. “For some reason... bad things happen to good people around me. Situations that I can’t do anything about... Girls I can’t save. Families get torn apart because I’m not strong enough to handle their pain and cops who are afraid of pansy ass gangs.” She lowered her head and looked at her hands. The knuckles and the valleys between the knuckles scarred, red and swollen in places. Recent and past fights telling their stories.
Tanner put his arm around her shoulder again and hugged her close. “It’s alright love. I know you are stronger than you might think.” In an undertone, he whispered into her ear, “You couldn’t save that girl, even if you wanted to. She was already dead. SD is going to execute her tonight; a long and tortuous death. Don’t worry, stress or try to do anything about it. It’s not worth you dying for.” He kissed her head and then whispered in Irish, “I love you. I don’t want you ever to leave me. If you die, so do I.”
Ealy melted at his words and twitched slightly as well, “I know...but I...” she shook her head and looked into his eyes. I wanted to save her...but she wanted me to leave her to her fate. Why would she do that? Ealy asked him with her eyes, begging him to give her an answer that would make her restless soul at peace.
Tyson and Jessica watched the twin carefully. Torment showed in her eyes. Something that was rare. Ealy was always uncaring, all she ever cared about was the ones she loved being safe and free. Nothing but strength and power showed in her eyes. Tyson knew Ealy had skipped, but he didn’t know what she had done. Jessica had a fair idea, but she didn’t want to voice it.
Tanner looked back at her, his eyes softening into the loving form that they always were in when he was around Ealy. She knew that even if you rescued her, they would come after you. It’s better she commit suicide than see you get hurt. She was Asian, right, and she understood Japanese? Seppuku. She would rather that than mass suicide. She was protecting you my dearest Ealy. Respect that.
Ealy bowed her head to him and let one tear fall into her lap. When she looked up at him, her eyes were clear and strong again. “Thank you babe.” She responded in Irish. Tanner nodded and she turned to her sister. “Do me a favor next time you go to Art class?” she asked her twin, her accent strong. Making passersby take a second glance at her. When Jessica nodded, Ealy grinned. “Tell him that my piece is almost finished.” She winked at her sister, who frowned. “Southers has wanted something new from me, now I have it.”
Jessica looked at her curiously, “That morbid pencil sketch?” she asked, when Ealy nodded Jessica shook her head rapidly, “He won’t take that.”
Tanner looked at his girlfriend, “You draw?” he asked in surprise. When Ealy nodded, he laughed. “I want to see.”
Ealy grinned and winked at him, “I have to grab it from my bag.” She stood, and Tanner jumped to his feet again. Ealy smiled and walked out the door and into a hallway. She had fought for this locker in particular. It was in the roughest place. All the seniors had their claims on the top lockers, and since she was a freshman, she had fought for one of them. Opening it quickly, she pulled her sketchbook out and slammed her locker close, before returning to them.
When she came close, Tanner jumped to his feet, bumping his knee on the table. Ealy smiled and shook her head, “You don’t have to do that each and every time I approach babe.” She muttered to him in Irish.
Tanner shook his head, “It’s a sign of respect. Blame it on my Italian ways. We protect and respect our women.”
Ealy laughed and hugged him before she sat back down. She opened the pad and flipped past morbid drawings of an anime drawn woman standing before them, blood dripping out of her eyes, ears, mouth and nose. A bullet wound in her chest. At Tyson’s look she grimaced, “I’ve been having dreams about this.” She flipped past different variations.
Tanner’s stomach flipped at the one of a girl that was being held by what appeared to be her lover. “You dreamed all these?” he asked her quietly. When Ealy nodded, he got a sick feeling that resonated from his stomach all the way to his heart. He leaned down to whisper in her ear. “I have been having the same dreams.”
Ealy looked at him sharply, her eyes burning with strength. She softened her gaze and kissed him deeply. “Nothing is going to happen to me babe. I’m too strong- my spirit is too strong for that.” she went back to flipping pages until she came to the picture in question.
Tanner leaned closer to stare at it before he let out a hearty laugh, making people turn their heads, “That’s beautiful.” He said, his accent flaring.
Tyson tried to look at it upside down, so Ealy swirled the pad around. Tyson studied it for a minute then blushed and winced at the same time. “It looks painful.” He added, his golden eyes growing dark for a few moments; they showed the pain as if it real.
Ealy laughed as her sister peered at it and shook her head. “That’s brutal.” She looked away as if she couldn’t see it any more. Ealy laughed again, her eyes shining with amusement. Some of her drawings were subject to censoring and many adults hated them.
One of the cafeteria patrols walked by and noticed the pad. It was facing him and he bent over Jessica’s shoulder to stare at it. “Ms Karn. I would expect better from you.”
Ealy smiled and waved her hand in a loose salute, “Excuse me, but I’m the one who drew that.” she put on her shit-eating grin. “I have others, you want to see them?” She flipped the pad her way and flipped back to get to the most brutal of her dreams. It showed a girl who had a knife held to her throat and she was entirely naked. There were scars and burn wounds all over her arms and her breasts. A line of tears flowed down her cheeks. It was a very quick sketch, but the meaning of it was clear.
Tanner looked to his girlfriend, “You dreamed this too?” he asked her in Italian. His preferred language was Irish but stress and impulse made it go to the second.
Ealy nodded, “Yes. I did. This was last night’s dream.” She told him, replying in Irish, bringing him back to reality.
The man grimaced and shook his head. “Ealy, you need to see the counselor.” When Ealy sniggered and shook her head, he looked at her. “That girl has a resemblance of you. You do realize that, right?” he asked worriedly.
When Ealy nodded, she replied, her accent flaring, it coming out as junk English. “Yeah, I know. These are all dreams I’ve been having.” She looked up at him and started to flip the pages showing less and less morbid, but all revolving around death and torture. None of them involved rape, but Ealy figured that her dream tonight would be one like that.
The man shook his head, “Please come with me Ms Karn.” He held out his hand in a sign that she should follow him.
Ealy looked to Tanner who rose, “I’ll come with her, Sir.” When the man nodded, he put his hand on her back. Ealy sighed and rolled her eyes before gently closing the pad. “I’ll see you next period.” It was the only one that all of them were in at the same time. Tyson and Jessica nodded as Ealy followed Mr Hinder to the office.
Ms Vance rolled her eyes, “What happened this time, Ms Karn?” when she saw that Tanner was with her, she wanted to take back her words. Turning to the Mr Hinder she asked, “She finally cracked? You want me to get the Dr Jacobs?” When Mr Hinder nodded she disappeared, when she came back, her face was grim. “He is waiting for you, Ealy.”
Ealy looked at Tanner who clenched her hand in his and the pair of them walked into the small office that was right across the hall from the principal who was on someone’s ass about having sex in the halls. Ealy laughed softly and sat down on the comfortable couch. Tanner sat next to her and Ealy leaned her head on his shoulder.
Dr Jacobs came walking in, closing the door gently behind him. He had a round face, round glasses and a black beard peppered with grey. It matched his hair, cropped close and business style. “Mr O’Conner. How’s it going?” His voice was kind and smooth, not condescending; at least not yet.
Tanner shrugged, “Could be worse, I suppose.” He made sure to put his accent on hard. He loved fucking with Dr Jacobs as much as Ealy did.
Dr Jacobs shook his head and sat down at his desk. “Ms Karn- Ealy. What have you been up to?” he asked as he noticed the sketchpad in her arms.
Ealy looked at Tanner who nodded and she opened it up to the one that that Mr Hinder had seen. “I have been having these reoccurring dreams. They aren’t just dreams. They are premonitions.” She added the last part in Irish directed to Tanner, who looked at her before giving her a kiss full of love and caring. His eyes scanned hers and they spoke to her, I will never let anything happen to you. You should know this by now.
Ealy kissed him back and nodded, I know... but these dreams... I’m not scared of much, but these scare me.
Dr Jacobs took the pad from her and scanned it, his eyes filled with wisdom and understanding. “Ealy, this is just a phase you’re going through. This means nothing.” He looked at the picture with sadness. He flipped through the other pictures she had and noticed the ones that had one thing in common. The death of a girl that looked like her, “This could very well be your sister.” He spoke slowly and Ealy rose to her feet, Tanner rising with her.
“Don’t you ever say that! It is not my sister! It’s me!” she cried at him. Her accent now British, “My sister has never done anything to anger anyone. Me? I’ve got an enemy list from here to Japan.” She spoke in Japanese, the words lost to Dr Jacobs’s ears, the meaning, however clear. “If anything happens to my sister, I would kill the one who did it. I love my sister and I swore to protect her the day I turned five- the day that I met Tanner-kun. That is why I fight; out of protection! I will always stand between those who can hurt me and my friends, the ones I love and the ones who aren't strong enough to protect themselves. I love my sister and I love Tanner-kun. You know nothing Doctor. Please stay the fuck out of my life!” she grabbed the pad and stalked out of the office.
Tanner understood everything and he bowed low. “I’m sorry, Sir.” He said in Japanese before leaving.
Dr Jacobs sat in his office amazed. How one girl could could have so much anger in her. Fear. He saw her at the beginning of the year, the beginning of this year. She was resilient in what she did. He leaned back in his chair; making his hands steeple in thought. It would best to leave her alone.
Chapter 7
Ealy had managed to break away from Tanner and seemed to fly across the campus. She threw the pad into her locker and rushed to the track. Throwing her jacket on the damp grass, she began to run laps. She ran herself ragged until she collapsed knees first on the dirt track. She pounded her fists into the dirt, harder and harder until they began to bleed. Why? What if one of those was her sister, what would she do? She knew that she would never be naked before those who would do her harm. They would be dead before then. If they had her before her sister, they would be dead, but if they had Jessica before her. She shuddered; she would be their slave just so that her sister would be safe. It was the promise she had made when their parents had faded from their lives into their own. She promised that she would make sure nothing happened to her sister.
Tanner had followed her until her locker. He peeked into the window and saw Tyson and Jessica on their feet, ready to follow. He shook his head and bade them to stay. Tyson nodded and gently guided Jessica to the sub line, which had grown smaller. Tanner nodded before rushing to catch up to her. He could only guess that she had gone to the track. He ran down the set of stairs that led to the field, taking some of them two and three at a time.
When he made it, he saw her on her knees; a few people around her. Swearing under his breath, he rushed to her, grabbing her jacket as he did so. “Alright, folks, give her some air.” He said pushing his way to her. “My dear Ealy, get up Mo Shearc .” He said his accent flaring again. Ealy looked up at him, tears flowing down her face. Tanner turned to the rest of them. “Everyone, it’s time for you to leave.” The crowd parted and showed Ealy hunched in the dirt.
A voice breathed on the air, “So I guess the bitch do cry sometime.” Tanner turned around, and Derek was leaning against the fence, watching them. “You think with all the shit she’s been through she would be stronger.” He laughed cold and dark. “Tanner, you think she’ll be alright?” he asked, mock concern in his voice.
Ealy strained against Tanner’s strong hold to get to her feet. “I’m going to kick his fucking ass.” She growled low and menacingly. Tanner shook his head and told her firmly to stay where she was. Ealy huffed but stayed, only moving to look up at him. Her eyes and nose were blotchy, although her eyes were dry. All she really wanted to do was to finish what Derek had started in first period, but she listened and obeyed Tanner. His mouth tweaked up a little as if he was trying to smile and draped her jacket over her. He stood and walked over to Derek.
Derek was watching all this with a grin on his face, as if he was enjoying it. He raised his eyebrows as Tanner walked over. Tanner stopped inches from Derek. “If you or anyone else ever touches or hurts my girlfriend, her sister, her sister’s boyfriend or me. You will have hell to pay.” Tanner grabbed Derek by the collar and slammed him against the fence, the upper bar slamming into Derek’s lower back. “Understand?” He asked in Mexican. The only other word he knew was fucking bitch, he really didn’t want to piss this man off more than he had to.
Derek shoved him back and straightened his collar and shirts. “Yeah, completely.” He walked off muttering something in Mexican.
Tanner watched him leave before he returned to his girlfriend. “What was that all about?” he asked referencing to the outburst she had. Tanner helped her up.
Ealy shrugged off his hands before she realized it was her lover. She gladly accepted his help and once standing she pulled on her jacket, buttoning it with a flourish. “I hate shrinks, doctors, all of them.” She looked into his eyes as she added, “I’ve had problems with them since the day they found a neighbor kid beat up in our backyard.” She smiled grimly. “I was the one who did it, but he touched Jessica in the wrong way. And I had to punish him.” She shook her head. “He was mildly injured. I remember you saying that the dead don’t learn lessons. Broken lip and fractured ribs. I got away with it. Self-defense. But they made me go to a shrink, who quit a week after seeing me once.” Ealy laughed and hugged Tanner. “I’m hungry, let’s get something to eat.”
Tanner gazed at his girlfriend in amazement. For once, she had managed to astonish him. “Ealy!” he admonished before he started laughing. Once he controlled his deep laugh, he said thoughtfully. “I remember a boy not coming to school the next day, but I thought he had just gotten sick.” he reached down to nibble her neck, making her laugh. “You my dear... I’m going to have to punish you when I get home.”
Ealy looked at him and her eyes brightened, “We gonna go to Lover’s first?” she asked him, an evil glint in her eyes. Tanner laughed again and nodded. Ealy grinned and tackled him to the grass, nuzzling him she whispered in his ear, her accent lilting softly, “I love you Tanner.”
Tanner smiled and rolled her over so he was on top, “I love you too my sweet Ealy.” He dipped his head down to kiss her passionately. Moments faded into minutes and Ealy barely heard the bell ring. Tanner groaned against her lips and pulled back, making his girlfriend cry out in protest. “We have to go to class.” He told him sadly, getting off her and pulling her to her feet. A gust of wind came up, ruffling his shaggy hair and he turned into it. The wind got stronger and Tanner laughed before turning to his girlfriend. Smiling, he dipped his head down again and kissed her, Ealy getting up on her toes to kiss him back. The wind settled and she sighed contentedly. Tanner grabbed her hand and the pair of them went back to the cafeteria to meet up with Jessica and Tyson.
Chapter 8
Ealy dropped by her locker to grab her sketchpad and backpack, Tanner leaning against one of the lockers and watching her with amusement. “You don’t need that for P.E. you know.” He muttered softly. Ealy nodded before swinging her bag over one shoulder. She clasped his hand before joined their friends.
As soon as Jessica saw her sister, she moved faster than Ealy thought was possible. A tight hug and a kiss on the forehead, “You alright, Ealy?” she asked, worry and stress showed clearly on her face and eyes.
Ealy nodded, “Yeah, I am.” She hugged her sister back just as tightly. For that one moment, she was happy she had a twin. Leaning into her, Ealy whispered in her ear, “I love you Jessica-kun.” It was in English, but her accent was Japanese. She stepped back to stand by Tanner’s side before smiling slightly.
Jessica smiled and tilted her head down in a slight bow. She reached behind her and grabbed the wrapped uneaten sandwiches that were lying there. “We figured you wouldn’t have time to eat.” She handed them to both Tanner and Ealy.
Tanner grinned, “Thanks Jess.” He said accepting both of them. He handed the one that had an ‘E’ on it to his girlfriend. He unwrapped his and tucked in as the cafeteria patrol began to shoo the stragglers out of the cafeteria. Tanner swallowed and laughed shortly, “Let’s go, we don’t want to be written up.” He put his other hand on Ealy’s back and the four made their way to the gym.
As they walked along the corridors, several Mexican men were following them and Ealy dropped back to allow Jessica and Tyson to walk ahead of them. Tanner noticed and clenched his hands by his sides. He glanced at Ealy, If they want a fucking fight, we’ll give it to them. He told her with his eyes.
Ealy nodded and responded back, just as passionately. I will stay and fight them; you take Jessica and Tyson to class. At Tanner’s look, she bowed her head slightly, We fight together. Tanner smiled; leaning down to kiss her and Ealy received the kiss, cupping his head down to her. The kiss ended and they paid attention to what was going on again.
Part of Derek’s gang pushed past them, bumping Jessica and Tyson’s shoulders roughly. Ealy bristled at them touching them in such a manner, but she relaxed at Tanner’s gentle touch on her shoulder.
The friends cut through a small-forested area that shielded the track from the gym. Tanner was a head of them and Ealy bringing up the rear. Her boots silent among the dead leaves, twigs and branches that had fallen from the recent windstorm.
Jessica looked behind her and noticed that her sister was stealthier than she had ever been. She fell back so she could talk to her. “Ealy? What’s the matter?” she asked in a hushed voice. It sounded louder than it was in this deathly silent place.
Ealy shook her head and looped her arm with her sisters, “Don’t worry about it, Jessica-kun.” She smiled at her sister, her eyes mirrored; although they showed the strength and power that her sister’s lacked. Her sister’s eyes showed fear, hesitance and respect. She spoke low and in English, and remained on the ground, walking softly, though she wanted to climb the nearest tree and see how things looked aerial.
They reached the gym before too long and Ealy kissed Tanner shortly and waited while Jessica did the same with Tyson. She gave her loose salute before opening the door and allowing her twin to enter first. Jessica looked at her quizzically, but walked inside first.
“We’ll get you soon enough chica.” The crude murmur was deaf on all ears, but Ealy heard it loud and clear. She looked around and growled low in her throat before entering the locker rooms.
Ealy and her sister had lockers right next to each other. As the other girls walked by they watched as the twins moved in unison, it was not only that, but their bodies were identical, with the exception of the two puncture marks that were on the upper part of Ealy’s breast. It looked as though she was a willing partner for a vampire.
Ealy pulled on her shorts, and the tank top that showed off those marks. She glanced at her sister who had pulled on a more moderate outfit. Sweat pants and a more conservative tank top. Ealy rolled her eyes and pulled her hair up into two buns. They fanned over her shoulders. “Come on. Let’s go.”
Jessica grabbed her arm, “Ealy...” she sighed, “Your collar.” She said, pointing to the spiked collar that made her look like a walking weapon.
Jessica reached out to grab it as they walked out to line up for roll call and Ealy grabbed her hand, “No. It stays on.” She dropped her sister’s hand and walked over to Tanner, who was wearing a tight black tank top; that showed more than enough muscles to make her mouth water and her thoughts stray. A pair of black and red basketball shorts and a matching pair of all stars completed his look.
Tanner grinned and hugged her close, kissing the top of her head. He pulled on the loop that was on her collar. “I’m gonna have to take care of this later.” He grinned again and dipped his head down so he could kiss her properly.
Ealy laughed low and deep and kissed him back. The teacher came out and they lined up according to last name. Ealy was before Jessica, but she always wanted to wig the teacher out. The only real difference between the two was their eyes and Ealy wanted to see if Mr Cobb could tell. Therefore, she switched places with her sister. Jessica rolled her eyes and protested a little before Ealy glared at her and then winked. Jessica sighed and bowed her head a little. This caused a few titters. Ealy grinned at the rest of them before remaining silent.
Mr Cobb walked slowly down the line, checking off names. He came to stand before the two. “Jessica, Ealy.” He paused and looked up. He stared into Ealy’s eyes. “No, no...” he shook his head and reached out to grab the loop on her collar, and Ealy glared at him. “You’re Ealy.” He withdrew his hand at her glare, even backed up a little. “That’s your sister.” He looked down to mark it in his book and in that span of time, Ealy switched back. When he looked up, he frowned and erased his mark before marking both twins present. Ealy laughed low in her throat. Mr Cobb shook his head and went down the line.
After he labeled them all present, they chose to go outside and play football or stay inside to take aerobics with Ms Myers. Most of the girls went off with her. Ealy followed Tanner outside and Jessica stood in the middle of the gym wondering what she was going to do. After a moments hesitation she followed Ealy out to the cold and damp grass. A light drizzle was falling and Jessica shivered slightly.
By the time, she had joined them, they had already picked out the teams; they were even and Jessica frowned slightly. Ealy waved to her and ran over, the football tugged under one arm. “Sit on the bleachers and stay warm.” She told her sister hugging her. She turned and threw the ball to one of the men. “I’m going to go play.” Ealy winked at her sister and lined up.
Jessica sighed and sat on the bleachers, huddling forward. She wondered why her sister always wanted to be with the men. She supposed it was because she liked to play roughly. She laughed at that as it started to pour.
Ealy ran down the field as Tanner threw the ball, spiraling it towards her. Cody ran for her. His dirty blonde hair sopping wet, the light curls clinging to the sides of his head. Ealy saw him coming and she leapt gracefully, catching the ball before landing as a cat, the ball resting in the crook of her arm, one knee on the grass, and the other hand on the ground as well. She grinned and winked at him before she raced across the line that they had made for goals.
Cody didn’t stop when he saw her cross the finish. One hundred and fifty five pounds hit her with the force of a semi truck. Ealy gasped and fell hard to the ground, the ball bouncing away. Tanner looked up in time to see Ealy fall and he yelled out, “Hey man! That’s not cool!” he took off running for his girlfriend as Jessica left the safety of the bleachers to rush to her twin.
Cody had his hand on her throat, “The thing I hate more than a bitch that kicked Derek’s ass is the bitch that kicked my ass in football. No pussies should be on the field.” He growled low in his throat. He was slowly choking her.
Ealy’s eyes blazed brightly, though they were dark. “Get your mother-fucking hands off my throat.” She growled back as best as she could. Her growl was as feral as she was.
Cody balked a little but kept on squeezing. “I should kill you right now. It would solve all our problems.” Adam, Frank and Randy circled her, they were all part of Derek’s little pansy ass gang.
Ealy growled low again. “You better get those hands off my neck.” Cody let go and Ealy pushed herself to her feet before fixing her shirt and her pants. “That’s more like it, good boy.” She patted him on the head before standing all the way up. She turned to look at a distressed Tanner. Ealy winked and mouthed ‘I love you’. Tanner sighed with relief and turned his back.
Ealy started to walk towards him when her arms twisted behind her back painfully. She let out a cat-like yelp. “Tan-!” she started to cry before a hand covered her mouth.
