Pessimistic/Optimistic!

Part IV Circular

"Hey, Sylvia!" Brady called, failing to mask his concern with a cheerful voice, as I jogged away, "Please stop! I'm dropping my dinner!"

I stop, feeling bad for spoiling his dinner. He didn't have to run after me though. I didn't want to be around anyone right now, I had completely humiliated myself running away. I'm so pathetic!

He caught up in a second, his face etched deep with concern and questions, "What was that just then, eh?"

I opened my mouth but it was too dry, like a desert, to speak. I didn't know what to say anyway. Jacob and Sam will probably found out later and yell at me and make me explain what happened so I'd rather not relive it over and over.

"It isn't like you to run away, you usually speak out against petty people like Meg and Mel and put them in their place,"

I rubbed my throat in discomfort, I had to speak, "I-I just couldn't be bothered with it. I'm such... a coward... for running away... and stooping so low as to behave in such a way in front of you and everyone else too,"

"It's fine. Meg said a lot of hurtful things but remember Syl, they are not true," Brady said before nudging me with his shoulder in an attempt to comfort and keep his food from falling from his arms.

"They aren't?"

"No, of course not Syl. It's kind of worrying that she managed to plant doubts in your mind."

I don't reply because I don't know what to say.

We go outside and sit on one of the new out door tables. It was sunny for a change and I couldn't understand why we hadn't sat out here to begin with. I guess everyone is comfortable enough with our current arrangements.

Brady opened the bottled water from his lunch for me and placed it on the table in front of me. I picked it up careful and sipped. My mouth was dry like sandpaper so it was a relief when the cool water slipped down my throat soothingly. At last I was ready to speak comfortably.

"You shouldn't let yourself get so dehydrated," Brady said concerned.

"I know, I just haven't been myself lately," I sigh, "I can't focus today,"

"Want to talk about it?"

"Hmm... maybe later, is that alright?"

"Sure, whenever you're ready, Syl."

"Thanks, you're a great friend, Brady."

Brady nodded in response, something he didn't often do, unsmiling. I didn't understand but thought nothing of it. I don't know why I'm noticing small useless things that have no relevance. There are different problems than Brady responding to a compliment in a way he usually wouldn't. I seriously don't know what I'd do without him sometimes though. He's been there for me a lot lately and I owe him. I need to do something for him in return soon.

XXXX

After Brady had eaten his lunch at a record speed we sat on a grassy field at the side of the school. I felt miserable and all I wanted to do was curl up in a ball and die at what had just happened. I knew Meg was reporting it to a teacher as I sat here sulking and completely ruining Brady's lunch. However, Brady was still optimistic that we could make the most out of our remaining free time before classes restarted and suggested we do something 'fun' before the bell rang to pass the time. His main intention was to cheer me up though.

"Come on let's go do something fun to cheer you up!" Brady smiled.

"I don't think that's possible, sorry Brady," I sigh, wrapping my arms around my legs which were pulled up to my chin.

"Don't be so pessimistic and do not doubt my cheer skills!"

"You're going to do some cheer leading?"

"No! We are going to play soccer."

"Wow, a game of football with only two people. That is so going to work."

Brady already had his phone out and I looked over to see he was texting Seth and several of the younger guys. I was glad he wasn't inviting Jared or Embry because that would mean Kim and Embry bothering me about the incident with Meg. I'd rather discuss it some other time... Actually I'd rather never talk about it and just forget it ever happened! I know I'll have to at least have a talk with Embry about it later tonight unless I cancel our plans and hide away in my bedroom. He'll probably just climb through my window though, the creep. Nah, I don't mind as long as he gives me a warning before he does it. I don't want to scream the house down!

"Okay!" Brady exclaimed with satisfaction as he slipped his phone back in his pocket and turned to me, "We've got more players,"

"Good but what about a ball?" I ask him.

"Oh shit!" Brady pulled out his phone in a panic and began clicking buttons rapidly.

I roll my eyes.

"Seth said they're bringing one, they won't be long now." Brady relaxes again.

I put my hand above my eyes and look around the surrounding area for the players. It isn't long before a group emerges from the school building. Seth, who was carrying the ball we were promised, was leading the group enthusiastically with Collin trailing behind with the younger wolves and their confused friends. I didn't blame them for not being overly happy about this last minute match. I didn't think this was a great idea either.

I wasn't a huge sports fan, particularly when it game to football or soccer as it is known here. I appreciated the thoughtfulness though. Brady, Seth and the others too were awesome to do this and I was happy to have them as friends. They were one of the pluses of being imprinted on and phasing. We'd never have become more than acquaintances if it wasn't for the whole wolf thing I was dragged in to.

Since it was his idea, Brady took control and organised the teams. He was the captain of the first team and Seth the second. Collin volunteered to be referee and two of the younger wolves were picked as goalkeepers. A friend of theirs wanted to be a goalkeeper as well but we couldn't let him since he wasn't a wolf. It meant us wolves didn't have to be as careful about the amount of force we put in to a kick. After each person had chosen and agreed on teams and positions it was only me left to decide. I already knew which team I was going to choose though.

"Ready?" Brady asked me as he grinned.

I smiled back, "Yeah, let's hurry up get this match started!"

This would be a good way to blow off some steam and forget about earlier.

"Let's play!"

Collin blew a whistle - he seemed to have pulled out of nowhere - and we began.

XXXX

Surprisingly, as we play we attract a small crowd of bored students trying to kill the remaining time we have left before afternoon lessons begin. After a few more minutes I search the crowds again, curious at exactly who were watching. I then spot some familiar faces. I wave and signal to Brady that I'm taking a break.

"Embry!" I greet as I try to fix my messed up hair.

The others smile and move away to give us some space to talk one on one. I feel bad for abandoning the game but the team could manage without me. We already had a few goals.

"How long have you been watching? I'm kind of embarrassed as I haven't been playing well," I laugh embarrassed.

"Only a few minutes. I'm sure with a few years of training you could be a professional." He replies in a casual and slightly distracted way.

"You mean decades! I suck compared to the others. Have you seen how good Seth and Brady are!?"

Embry's eyes narrow briefly as he listens to my chatter while watching the guys play. He looks impatient and a little annoyed. Embry then suddenly turns with a strange look on his face. I have no idea what the hell is going on.

"So, how come I wasn't invited to take part in this little game?" Embry questions, failing to sound casual.

I shrug, "I didn't send out the text messages, Brady did. You're not missing anything that's exciting or all that interesting though,"

"But you seemed to be having fun and that's something I don't want to miss out on since you never seem to smile like that with me,"

"What are you on about you daft idiot? I smile for you all the time," I laugh nervously at his strangeness before swiftly changing topic, "I don't suppose you heard or seen my confrontation with Meg?"

"I overheard bits and saw what happened at the end. I thought I'd best give you some space, especially since you didn't want to hang around with me during lunch today."

What the fuck? This guy...

"Embry, seriously, what the hell is your problem? Earlier, you were fine with us not spending time together until this evening and now you're acting like a complete prick," I frown.

"You thought I was fine with you going off with some other guy?" Embry shook his head in an exasperated way.

"Can't you just be honest with me? Don't pretend to be fine when you're not," I sigh before reaching up and putting my hand on his shoulder, "I don't see why you aren't fine with it. Brady's my friend, you're my boyfriend and you also have friends you don't get much chance to hang around with in a normal non-wolfy way,"

Embry shrugs my hand off sulkily, "Fine, I'll go hang out with them tonight instead of you then,"

"If you want to do something as stupid and pretty as that then go right ahead Embry Call. I'm not the one looking like an ass right now,"

"I guess you'll be hanging around with Seth, Collin or Brady since they are more important and precious to you than your imprint,"

"Don't say his name like it's something disgusting! And you know what, if I was the spiteful bitch you seem to think I am maybe I'd do just that but I'm not and wouldn't want to stoop to your low expectations of me,"

Embry's eyes widened, "I don't think that!"

"Well don't insinuate it!" I snap before taking a deep breath, "Look, calm down and we'll talk at the end of the day but you'd better call up your friends because I'm having a quiet night in alone."

"See you then."

I nod and walk away.

One again everything had turned to shit! Nothing goes right for me, does it? I can't have one stress free day without any arguments. I miss the good old days when nobody bothered me. I just really hope we can resolve this at the end of the day. I'm not going to be able to concentrate in my remaining classes now though!

I pulled out my phone and began sending apologetic texts to the guys I was playing football with. They'd agreed to play for me and I went and did a vanishing act. Brady was the first to reply back and he didn't sound pissed at all though it's easy to hide your feelings in a text message. I felt awful but I couldn't just continue playing with Embry there watching. I thought going to him was the right thing to do. However, not doing so would have meant that right now the argument would be beginning and the possibility of witnesses higher. Fingers crossed this gets solved later on. You know, Embry has been acting really weird recently. I can't work out if we need space or if we need to hang out more...

My phone vibrates in my hand. It was another text from Brady.

Brady: I just saw Embry... you guys fell out?

Sylvia: Kind of. We are going to talk after school.

Ring Ring Ring

The school bell.

Brady: BTW I saw the trash & notes outside your locker. Are you ok? :(

Sylvia: Oh, I'd forgotten about that. I'm not too fussed about it now, worse has happened since.

Brady: Ok :( Cheer up soon!

I put my phone away and head to class with a miserable look on my face.

XXXX

The rest of the school day passed by at snail pace. The remaining lessons were boring and could not distract me from the list of negative events coming my way after the final bell. I was not looking forward to the detention after what could be round two of my argument with Embry. I also had rubbish to clean up and Meg to deal with too. She would surely report me to a teacher for throwing her across the canteen. I bet it's Mr. Anderson too!

RING RING RING

It's time to face the music. Awesome.

Since I need to have a serious and important conversation with Embry before my detention I had to move quickly. For the first time in a long time I had my shit packed away and I was right out of the door before any one even stood up. I didn't care if the teacher wanted us to stay back a second because it wasn't an option. I had more important things to do than listen to some lecture in response to something I didn't even do.

I'm about to start sprinting in the direction I presume Embry will be in. Is it really weird that I've almost fully memorised his time table? I still can't even remember my own sometimes and I end up having to pull it out and take a look. Before I can take off a large, warm hand suddenly grabs my wrist making my breath hitch – who was it? I'm then pulled back against a warm body that I recognise to be a wolves. I jump around and see that it's Embry.

"Dammit, you almost gave me a heart attack." I say, my hand over my heart.

Embry takes my hand with just a simple apologetic smile and no words before leading me off through the suddenly emerging crowds toward the room the detention is going to be held today. We walk quite quickly because talking on the go would mean more eavesdroppers. The sooner we got to the detention room the more time we'd have to talk about what happened this afternoon.

Soon we are stood only a few metres away from the door to the room I'm supposed to be in shortly. If we weren't quick the teacher will end up arriving before I've had a chance to enter and sit down. Being late would mean another detention or worse.

I look up at Embry, who instantly looks down at the floor guilty, waiting for him to begin. He was mostly at fault here.

"I'm sorry sorry for being such a...," Embry trailed off while looking at the polished floor, trying to find a suitable word.

"Jealous idiot?" I suggested before smiling slightly, "It's okay, I forgive you because I love you Embry. Even though you can be a bit daft at times, I can somewhat understand why you acted the way you did,"

I gasp as I'm suddenly embraced tightly by Embry. My eyes widen before closing in content as I return the hug, surprised at the sudden display of affection. It was the best hug I'd received in a while. In this single hug, it was like I could feel exactly how much he cared about me. I hoped he could feel my love too.

After a minute or two Embry detaches himself from me. He suddenly has a desperate and heartbreaking look on his face. My face automatically loses the relaxed expression from half a second ago because a look of deep worry is plastered on over the top at the sight of Embry's expression. My heart was breaking too at the sight of it.

Embry looks up at the off white ceiling and then asks a question not meant to be answered by me, "Why? Why are we not like the others? Our imprint should be like theirs. Our imprint isn't normal."

I still have to answer because he's having doubts about our relationship.

"Embry, every imprint is different. When you say 'the others' you mean Jared and Kim. But think about it, our imprint is special because it's a double. That automatically makes us different," I remind him, "We are the first recorded, and you are the only Embry Call and I the only Sylvia Cross. Each imprint has individual problems to overcome. Even Jared and Kim had problems at the start, remember?"

"Yeah, you're right. We just need to go at our own pace instead of comparing ourselves to the others, right?" Embry said with some determination and new found optimism in his voice, "They've been together for a lot longer so they are bound to be ahead and have less problems,"

"Exactly! This isn't a race, it's a journey and taking our time to enjoy every second as we progress will make it all worthwhile,"

"Okay, but I still think we have more than our fair share of problems. I wish we could get a break from all this drama," Embry complained pouting.

"I agree, we deserve a holiday sometime!" I laugh at his expression, "Sometimes I feel the whole universe is conspiring against us but we just need to remember that nothing can ever break our imprint. We are indestructible!"

"Ours is a double too, so it is twice as strong!"

"You've got that right!"

Embry began to smile again and I couldn't help but smile too. We had both gained some much needed and fresh optimism through this talk. I think our rough patch was coming to an end and soon we'd have everything ironed out so we could begin a proper relationship. If I'm honest, this relationship crap scares me. I'm completely unprepared for it because I never planned to have a boyfriend in high school. All of this just sort of happened suddenly. You know, I used to think I'd either never have a boyfriend and instead be forever alone. I definitely would not go through all of this if the person was not someone as friendly and funny and kind as Embry.

It was now time to wrap up the conversation so I wouldn't miss my detention and have a whole new set of worries, such as phone calls home and extra homework, to worry about.

"You know, I think it's time you met my mom." Embry said suddenly.

...That is sooo not going to bring a swift end to this conversation. Why did he have to bring up such a serious and important, headache inducing topic when I'm short on time!? Oh, Embry!

But, his mother!? I cannot believe he wants to introduce us. I thought - and hoped - I'd remain a secret forever and all the family drama would only be on my side. Now there's going to be double the drama which was not going to be fun or enjoyable. Meeting her is impossible because there is a ninety-nine percent chance that she'll dislike me the way my mother dislikes Embry.

I can't say no to Embry though... It looks like I'll have to woman up and learn how not to be a coward. Maybe there is a small chance that the universe will be on my side and force his mother to like me. I admit, it would be interesting to meet the person who brought Embry up. I can just imagine the baby pictures... Adorable. Okay, I'm officially sold on his idea.

I put on a brave smile, "Okay, if that's what you want,"

"I'd like you too but you don't have to if you don't feel ready to Syl. There's no rush," Embry smiled nervously.

"I want to! I'm just scared she'll hate me,"

"She won't. She'll be pleased about it – I think," Embry said nervously.

"Even you don't have absolute confidence in this meeting!"

"It'll be fine Syl. I actually haven't told her about you yet but I'll talk to her later. We can arrange something in the next few weeks."

"Okay, that sounds good. The teacher will be here in five seconds, we're lucky she's late today. I'll see you around, okay?"

Without a word, Embry kisses me on the cheek and walks away with a very pleased and confident looking smirk. It looked odd because I hadn't seen such a look from him before. His eyes also told me that he was plotting. Meeting his mother was a serious event though and we definitely don't want to risk losing a potential member of our fan club. My mum was already against us. If both sides opposed our relationship then I'd never make it down the aisle because a wedding with barely any guests and two women giving you threatening death glares is not going to be a pleasant experience. Of course, we're not going to get married so I suppose it doesn't matter. Still, it would be nice to have a little family support besides an annoying older brother and indifferent father.

"Come to mine early tomorrow for breakfast!" I call to him before he goes out of sight.

He raises his hand without turning to signal that he heard. I smile softly at his broad back. It would be nice to walk home with him but after today I'll be a free woman. Of course, that all depends on if Meg or anybody else who have a grudge or whatever against me. As long as they don't try and get me in to any more trouble I'll be fine.

I carefully open the door to the detention room and slip in.

One moment is good and then the next is bad. I go through these events and the emotions attached that are completely opposite from the previous until I reach the start of the cycle again. Never once am I relieved to restart the cycle. It's a never ending turbulent ride. Up and Down and side to side, my life path goes so drastically. Why can't I have an extended period in either the good or the bad. I don't care which because I'm sick of life playing with my emotions. I just want to be steady even if I have to be constantly miserable in order to get that stability.

Okay, maybe that's a bit silly of me to say. These happy moments... I wouldn't give them up for the world! I guess I'll have to learn to enjoy the ride a little more. If I'm honest, I've never been a fan of roller coasters.

"You've finally arrived," an unimpressed voice noted.

The voice woke me up from my thoughts as I was passing the big desk at the front to find a seat. I froze before slowly turning to face the figure at the desk gulping. I think I'm in trouble again.

"..."

I had no words in my suddenly dry throat.

"I was worried I'd have to go out there and disturb what seemed to be a serious and much needed moment of affection."

Oh shit.

XXXX

Pessimistic/Optimistic!

Part V It Never Ends

I'm pretty sure she was not waiting in the room when I arrived so why was she here and waiting now?The unfamiliar teacher was staring at my expectantly. I suppose I'd better attempt to form some words instead of continuing to stare dumbfounded. Another bad moment was incoming.

"I... Wha... How... Sorry!" I splutter not being able to come up with anything better and more intelligible to say.

To my surprise the teacher smirks. I then realise that she's the fairly new young teacher, whose name I can't recall. It is rumoured that she can be a little eccentric on occasion. I say that she's fairly new because she started teaching her a few months ago. However, people still call her the 'newbie' and until now I have not had a run in with her. This was a really terrible first impression and there was no way to salvage the situation. I gently sigh as I silently mourn my ever increasingly decaying reputation as being an intelligent, sensible, quiet and well behaved student.

The teacher stands up straightening her skirt before walking around her desk. I realise she'd heading straight for me and I instinctively take a step back fearing for my life. This makes her laugh and I realise she is one of those teachers who enjoy their students suffering. I flinch as she approaches me and places a hand on my shoulder turning me to face the few others in the room and the desks. I eye a back row seat that is empty and I know that as soon as I'm released from the teacher's hold I'll be sitting there well away from her.

I was expecting her to try and humiliate me in some way in front of the class but instead I looked at her and noticed she too was looking at the seat I had spotted.

"Where can you sit...?" the teacher said mostly to herself in an agonizing voice like it was such an important and difficult decision.

"I'll just go and sit over there." I say hurriedly pointing to my chosen seat.

Before I can move though her grip on my shoulder tightens.

"No. I think a front row seat is more suited to you."

She loosens her grip and I began to move towards a random seat on the empty front row, my head down. That's where I sit still and silent and staring down at the small desk my arms rest on for twenty minutes. The most boring yet tense twenty minutes of my life. I know at the end of this period of time that something unpleasant would most likely happen.

XXXX

The twenty minutes are up.

The teachers chair screeches again the floor as it is pushed back by feet. I look up to see her stand and clap her hands. She then pulls out her phone and begins to fiddle with it before addressing the class absent mindedly, "Okay, get out of here now. I'm sure even losers like you have lives and if you don't then I don't care because I'm not wasting mine on you lot."

This was my time to escape. All I had to do was pick up my bag, stand up and then push my chair under the desk as the first few people begin to leave. That means I'll be lost in the middle of the small crowd exiting the room and I'll be hidden from her view. Or at least that's what I hope!

"Hurry up!" the teacher urges making a shooing motion from where she was stood behind her desk.

I smile confidentially and begin my plan. I don't keep my head down or do anything suspicious, I walk out normally imitating everyone else so not to draw attention to myself. It turns out that my efforts were futile though and she had the eyes of a hawk.

"Oi, late girl. Where are you going?" the teacher questions me, burning holes in my back.

I freeze unlike the other students. Everyone else suddenly decided to speed up their exit then just in case she shouted for some of them to stay behind too. They soon disappeared out of the classroom door and down the corridor to the nearest exit like a stampede. I sigh, unfreeze and turn back to face her. In my mind I pray that what was about to happen wouldn't be painful or embarrassing.

I go to stand in front of her desk as she sits back down. I hold my breath and wait...

"Relax, I'm not going to bother giving you another detention for being late. It seemed you had a good reason,"

I smile slightly in relief and relax my tense stance. I can now breathe normally again.

"Thank you, I promise it will not happen again. I really am sorry," I reply.

The teacher waves her hand, "It's fine, you're lucky I'm a sucker for romance and touching scenes,"

I scratch my head, "Yeah, I guess I am."

"Off you go then."

I nod and turn to leave. As I walk across the room she stands just as my hand touches the handle of the door.

"Can I ask you something?" the teacher asks in a curious tone.

I turn surprised but nod, "Of course, what is it it?"

"I've seen your boyfriend and some other guys around school quite a bit, they're all pretty huge... How did they get like that? You're tall for a girl too,"

"...I suppose it's our genes and also the guys eat a hell of a lot and take part in sporting activities too,"

"It's unusual,"

I nod hesitantly, not knowing how to reply.

"You know, I can't help but stare, like many others here, when they walk past. They are all so... I can't think of a suitable word. They just look fierce and great together like a gang or a pack or something, don't you think?"

"Yeah, they do I suppose. Is that all?" I ask politely, wanting to escape this awkward conversation.

"Sure, that's all for now. If I have any other questions I'll come and find - Oh, what's your name by the way?"

"I'm Sylvia, and you're...?"

She smiled, "Diana,"

"Well, Miss... Diana, I'll be leaving now,"

"Have a good evening."

"You too, bye."

Weird.

Ah, I'm now officially free! I can't believe how lucky I am to get away with being late for detention. From now on it's a fresh start. I'm going to doing everything possible to ensure I never receive another detention ever again. I've done my time and I'm going to reform and become the well behaved model student I once was. Now all I needed to do was sort out my locker and then finally I could make my way home and relax.

The school is pretty much dead now. As I make my way across the school to my locker I only see the occasional cleaner or teacher. I felt like I shouldn't be here – like I'm a trespasser. Once the final bell rings to signal that you're free it's a race to leave and get out of the way of the staff. Very few people stay behind for a club so usually those who are late going home are the ones who attended detention. I increase the speed I'm walking at so I can reach the corridor my locker is on before a cleaner heads down there. I could just let them clean up the mess outside my locker but they could easily figure out that the locker the rubbish is scattered around is mine. Others next to me may also get the blame and that would make me feel guilty.

I turn the corner and I'm surprised at what I see.

The rubbish is no longer scattered on the floor instead there is a neatly tied black rubbish bag in front of my locker. I don't know who the hell was kind enough to clean it up for me. Maybe Kim? Embry? Or maybe Brady? Whoever it was, I was grateful. I jog towards the bag and locker. Once I reach them I check the inside of the locker and notice that was now spotless once again. I pick the rubbish bag up and I shut the locker door securely as I hear footsteps.

"I saw Brady cleaning up a while ago, in case you're wondering," A female voice informed me.

I turn my head and I'm surprised when I see Meg stood there impatiently.

"Oh," I say dumbly confused at why she was still hanging around school and without her sister too.

What was she doing here after school? I just stare at her confused unable to expand upon by previous reply of, "Oh." She sighs. It looks like Meg has something to say to me and has been waiting for me for a while to be able to. She has a bottle of water in her hand so assume she went to the vending machine and had returned to resume her wait.

I know Meg is most likely the one who trashed my locker but I doubt that she is also the cleaner of my locker too. That seemed a bit stupid. Also she had no reason to do so. Meg was probably here to let me know that tomorrow I'll be expecting to receive another detention or two. I sigh and wait for Meg's trademark bitch smirk to form on her face before she attempted to get back at me for lunch time.

"I'm not going to offer my hand to you but for now I'm calling it quits," Meg announced.

I raise my eyebrows because this was not what I was expecting, "Fair enough but, what brought this on?"

"Well, it got quite out of hand at lunch which got me thinking and then..."

"Then what?"

"He told me not to mention anything but he deserves some credit,"

I look at her confused at who she's talking about.

Meg continues, "Brady. Brady talked with me and he actually isn't as daft as he acts - surprisingly. He made me realise that maybe this rivalry is a bit over the top now and not worth it,"

"Okay, good,"

"Don't get me wrong, you still piss me off but I'm willing to be the bigger woman and let you off,"

"Brady must be pretty persuasive. I never realised..."

"Yeah he is, you're lucky to have him,"

"I know, he's a brilliant friend – the best even,"

"Friend?"

"Yeah... he's my friend,"

"Oh, it's just with the way you chose him over Embry, I assumed you might be breaking up with Embry for him,"

"No, no! I love Embry more than anything,"

"Some advice as an... acquaintance then: before this situation gets messy, iron out any misunderstandings and be prepared to choose. Don't hurt Embry because even I can see that he is way more than a handsome face and hot body,"

"I'm not quite sure at what you're getting at but it's not my intention to hurt or betray Embry in anyway. I'm a lucky bitch to have him and will not take him for granted."

"A lucky bitch indeed," Meg said wistfully - like she wanted what I had, "Bye."

I watched as Meg walked away and disappeared around the corner and out of sight. I took a deep breath and then slowly breathed out. I felt like that conversation had concluded something, yet, opened something entirely new. What had been brought to a close in this conversation – the conflict between Meg and me – had been something negative. You would think that then something more positive would follow however what I felt was about to begin gave me a feeling of dread. I felt like Meg wouldn't be involved though, she had just kick started it. What ever is heading my way, I just hope I can handle it. Whatever it was it would have to wait though because right now all I want to do is go home and relax. If the world wants to end it will have to wait until tomorrow morning. I am determined to get some much needed rest.

The walk home was supposed to be uneventful. Well, usually it was so I always assumed that was the way a walk home always is. However, this evening my walk home was beyond abnormal. It seems I have gotten myself a stalker... Or maybe I'm just being paranoid. Walking alone when barely anybody else is around does that to you. I shouldn't really fear anything because, after all, I'm pretty hard to harm now. I'm a wolf, right? Being a wolf hasn't taken my fear away though. I'm still an absolute chicken.

XXXX

It's evening and I'm aware the detention has eaten into some of my free time. I'm determined to make it home to watch one of my favourite quiz shows. I walk at a steady pace out of the school building, across the grounds and out of the gates. I don't want to miss what's on television but the walk is important because it gives me a chance to reflect on the day. I look around seeing the familiar unchanging appearance of La Push. It's exactly the same as when I first came here many years ago. It was home. However, looking around I notice that something has changed. Across the road an unfamiliar pale man stands casually, hands in pockets and back against tree while he smokes. I'd never seen him in La Push before and I can't recall ever seeing him in Forks either. Who the hell is he? Why is he lurking near the school?

I avoid looking at him and keep my head straight forward and high in the direction of my safe place – home. Ducking my head would only draw attention. I hear from behind footsteps and the smell of smoke goes. He must have put it out. I know some people smoke while waiting for something. Could it be that this man was possibly waiting for me? I keep calm and don't freak out. I carry on walking taking several detours to see if he follows... And he does each and every time.

I don't know what to do though, so I keep walking.

Crap. I can't stay in denial.

I'm being followed, aren't I? This guy... not long has passed since I first noticed him and his aura of suspicion. I'm near certain that he is following me, but, for what? Why the hell was this man following me? I don't know him, I can't recall ever meeting the guy! I needed to stop and confront him as I wasn't about to just lead him to my house and invite him in for a cup of tea, though, he had clearly waiting for me so he probably already knows where I live, along with various other facts about me. Creepy.

Think, think Sylvia. Do you really not know this man?

My eyes widened in realisation.

My situation...

Parts of my situation were that dream. The man... his face is one I should have never seen until this day but in my dream a man with striking resemblance was there. Shaved head, dark hair growing back. Pale eyes. Stocky. I've never liked looking and thinking about peoples appearance as it brings about judgement. My dear brother Vic owed me a big explanation, no half lies would do. This shit he'd got himself neck deep in was putting our lives here at risk. If mom found out we'd be on the next plane to England.

That idiot is going to pay for dragging me into this drama! Déjà vu is freaky stuff sometimes but this guy was straight out of one of my nightmares. I must have seen him somewhere before and that's why he appeared in my nightmare. Today could quite possibly be the second day I've seen him or even the third or fourth. It's possible that I've simply just never registered him.

I once bumped into a young homeless person in Seattle. I went against my usual behaviour - everyone's usual behaviour - and I stopped. I stopped and I spoke to them. The story I heard was something I'd never forget. That day I was glad that I did not carry on walking. I did not just ignore the human being sitting there living a never ending nightmare. Before my parents who I'd lost came looking for me I emptied the contents of my purse. It was not a lot but I felt I was obligated to help them in some way. I could not walk away and leave them without anything. That seemed worse than just ignoring them.

They wouldn't accept it though. They told me to keep hold of it and use it for myself like any other person would. If they accepted the money, it would only be stolen by another individual living on the streets any way. It was enough for them that I had not just blanked them like the hundreds of others who had walked by. I could walk away unashamed... No. I couldn't do a thing to help them really or maybe I could have but I was not selfless enough.

The sun began to set that day and I hadn't found my parents yet. Ten minutes before I found them I was robbed. The man was desperate for money – he had nothing. To avoid a knife to the stomach I handed over the contents of my purse. This person would be able to eat tonight. I would not be going to the cinema next weekend. I felt disappointed at that and also very angry because this man had stolen what was mine. However, for a brief amount of time they would be able to escape their never ending nightmare. They would be able to briefly escape the shop doorway they are confined to.

If I'd have been selfless and gave the money to the person earlier, despite deep down wanting it for myself, would I have been stabbed that night? I basically did what they said and used the money on myself – to save my own life. I escaped a nightmare of blood and pain and most likely death. In the end, that person had saved me from the man's knife by declining the money. You know, I never spoke of that night to anyone; I controlled the shakiness of my body and words until I got over it. One day I will tell Embry though.

So, I will confront this man from my nightmare and I will end it tonight. I will not put up with a never ending nightmare. And I won't be selfish or even selfless either. I will do what is required. He will be leaving La Push tonight whether it is on foot, by car or by ambulance. This man is clearly a threat to my people and so therefore must be stopped.

XXXX

Pessimistic/Optimistic!

Part VI Consumed

The countdown in my head begins.

Five... Four... Three... Two... … … ...One!

I pivot suddenly and launch myself in his direction punching him in the face. He groans and bends slightly, cupping his face in pain. I must have hit him hard because there's a tingle of pain in my fist. Whatever I have done to my hand will fix itself quickly so I ignore it.

What I did to him was not enough though. He soon recovered, despite the blood oozing out of his nose, and charged towards me. The man was surprisingly quick and strong for a human. It was clear he had more experience than me when it came to fights of this kind. I'd simply just thrown him off by attacking first. However, now the man was ready and expecting me to fight back.

I stepped out of the way as he charged before throwing my most likely healed fist at him again. He caught it and twisted my fist. There was a crack in my hand and a snapping sound in my wrist as he twisted my hand all the way round. I whimpered in pain.

"Fuck!" I cursed and began to kick furiously to force him to let go.

He kicked back, a painful kick to the stomach. The next thing I knew I was up against a large tree being held by the neck with two large hands.

He grinned viciously, "Well, you are a very unpleasant surprise."

"Drop... dead," I spat out.

"And definitely not the little teen girl I was expecting,"

I growled and shook violently. The man gripped my throat harder cutting off my breathing. I had no choice but to try and calm down. His grip eventually relaxed

"Who are you?" I said hoarsely.

"I have business with your brother. He won't pay up so I thought I'd compromise and collect something else,"

"Me?"

"Yes, the beloved little sister,"

"Don't involve me in that dumb idiot's mess. We may be related but we don't have anything to do with each other,"

"Really? So that's why you live all alone together and laugh, bicker and eat home cooked food at the table, right?"

"You fucking stalker!"

I thrash around and begin to kick wildly. He loosens his grip just enough so I can focus on escaping rather than breathing. When I lift my hands to his throat and squeeze back he lets go in surprise. He was not expecting a teenage girl to have as much strength as I do. Our feet get tangled though and we are left thrashing around. He resorts to grabbing my hair like in a bitch fight to keep me from getting up. I manage to bite down on his arm and with my hands I rip his hands off my hair. I don't care if my hair is torn from my scalp and I even have a bald patch, I need to retreat for a moment and think of a strategy as I was certain my life was in danger.

The man pulls himself up but shockingly does not charge at me. He too puts distance between us. I can't see his face as he is looking down but I gradually become aware of the sound of quiet laughter. It gets louder and louder as he lifts his head to reveal his grin. He's laughing at me!?

"Why are you laughing you bastard?" I shout.

"I remembered your weakness," He smiles.

"Weakness!? What the fuck are you talking about?"

"Call."

I freeze.

Holy... No. No, no, no! Call. Embry Call. Embry! I need to do something. What has this man done? Who is he? Why is he doing this? Why has he involved my Embry. I need to protect him. My thoughts race and I lose all sense or rationality. All I can think is 'Embry is in danger. Embry is in danger. Protect Embry.' That's when the shaking begins. It's even more violent than before. And I cannot control it. I don't think. I just charge.

"What the fuck have you done to Embry you piece of shit!" I yell as I knock him off his feet and onto the floor.

I punch him and the sound of his already bloody nose cracking and his cry of agony causes a microsecond of silent stillness before we snap out of it and begin the struggle once more.

"Fucking... Bitch," the man spat out, wincing due to the pain.

I twist his broken and bloody nose and he curses in pain, "Tell me or I'll rip out your throat you prick!"

"I-I... shit. I didn't think you'd be affected this much," The man looked like he was about to shit himself, "You're one crazy bitch!"

"He's mine! Why wouldn't I be pissed!? What have you done to him!?" I snarl.

"I thought he was just some crush... That's what I was told." the man says to himself ignoring my wrath.

I grab him by his jacket and thrust him backwards and forwards repeatedly in frustration, "TELL. ME. NOOOW!"

He holds up his hands hurriedly, "I haven't done anything to him..."

I let go of him harshly and stand up.

I glare as his smirk returns... "Yet."

Did this guy ever give up!?

I grab him again.

"If your brother doesn't pay up, you will watch Embry Call die," he threatens

"Not fucking likely mate!"

I throw him across the ground and turn to walk away. I had to go before I exploded and killed him. I could barely move due to the shaking.

That's when I heard a rustle. I jumped around. In his hand was a gun pointing straight at my head. Startled I fell back. My heart beat increased rapidly, I was certain it was loud enough for even him to hear. Was I going to die here?

The feeling that thought brought was like no other. I was torn between my fear and a bizarre contentment. It was fine if I happened to die. However, only if it guaranteed the safety of one particular person.

For Embry, I would die.

But today I had to live. I had to live so I could be with Embry and ensure his safety. This man... No. This piece of shit that dared to follow me like a bad smell was going to get it. He was going to get it right in his neck. Razor sharp pain will puncture and crush, cutting off his airways.

My eyes closed for a split second before reopening with an entirely new look. I let go of all self control and I snarled, twisting and turning as I began the shift from human to wolf. I forgot all about the consequences of allowing myself to lose control.

"You fucking monster!" the man spat as his hands pointing the gun at me shook.

I lunged towards him teeth bared ready for the kill. At that point, time seemed to slow down as my humanity drained from me. It was only the sound of the gunshots followed by the feeling of my body being punctured that halted me.

What was I doing...? And on a street during the early evening!?

I didn't even care about the gun. I felt indestructible but the pain reminded me that I was not. I was nowhere near... I had to shift back quickly before he fired again and so if it was so serious that I was seconds from collapsing, I would at least bleed to death as a human despite giving in to instincts moments ago.

The man didn't hang around, he ran as I reverted back. He was clever for doing that. With me reverting back it looked as if he shot a young girl and not a monster like he thought. It was just a relief he didn't finish me off.

I laughed weakly as I reached for my torn school bag and pulled out a slightly broken phone. Stalk naked and bloody, lying in tatters of fabric. That was me. Classy girl, classy death. Luckily my phone was okay as I genuinely needed help, I'd fucked up big time after all.

I held the phone to me ear and waited for her to pick up.

"Sylvia?" the voice on the other end questioned curiously.

"Alice, I've... been s-shot. Is Carlisle home? Could... If-If it's not too much trouble, could you pick me up. I can go wolf again... drag myself to the treaty line or into the woods," I babble shakily.

"Shot!? Oh God, Syl. Where are you?" she cried.

"A street in La Push. I'm surprised nobody heard... the shots," I laugh without humour, "I'd rather not be seen naked by nosey neighbours,"

"Brady's on his way... Try and move yourself into the woods,"

"N-No... I want you. I don't want em' to find out what I've done," I cry as I pull myself up to stagger towards the woods.

"Brady overheard the conversation... Along with Jacob and Seth,"

"Sh-shit... stop him!"

"Brady just ran out straight away and I'm not sorry I couldn't stop him!" Alice shouts down the phone before taking an unneeded breath, "Carlisle and Jake are on their way too,"

I groan and then I remember another person... "E-Embry?"

I hear Alice sigh in my ear, "I won't tell him but I can't promise anyone else won't. He is going find out anyway. Don't you want him with you?"

"No, I don't want Embry involved with this,"

"Embry is already involved, he has been from the moment he imprinted on you,"

"I know, but..."

I hear a howl from a distance.

"Alice, I think Brady's near."

"Okay, I'll hang up. See you soon,"

"Thanks Alice."

I hang up and then look down at my naked body oozing blood. Well, I never thought Brady would see me naked and on top of that with bullet holes. I was a right mess. If I wasn't so tired I'd feel embarrassed.

to be continued?