lissie_the boy next door

7/29/2019 Lissie_the Boy Next Door

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She Fell For The Boy Next Door

Prologue

The older boy shoved the small girl into the mud in the middle of the park. Wet dirt

splattered her red pigtails and everywhere else. Her bottom lip trembled and shelooked at the ground just as another boy, this one her age, ran over and pushed the

seven-year-old onto the damp grass. He bent down and offered his small hand to thegirl. She grabbed it, helping to pull herself up onto her feet. The boy kept hold of her

hand and led her over to their mothers, talking on a park bench. The red haired girls

mom sighed at the sight of her daughter, but smiled at the boy holding onto her hand.The boys mom laughed and ruffled her sons hair.

Annabelle, this is my son, Cale. Hes the ratbag I was telling you about she said.In the process of tidying her daughter, Annabelle smiled at the other woman and her

son.

Emily, this is Alice. She just turned five yesterday she replied.Emilys fair eyebrows rose.

So did Cale! she said, surprised.Annabelle lifted Alice onto her lap and wrapped her arms around her.

Emily and Cale live next door to us now she told her daughter.

Cale grinned at Alice and she shyly smiled back.Best friends he said.

They were.

1

Alice! Yo, wait up!Alice Nichols turned around, watching a tall boy running after her. She smiled and

kept walking. She heard a frustrated growl right before arms encircled her waist.

Hi, Cale Alice said dryly, clutching at his hands.

How was school? Cale asked, slightly hyper.Alice rolled her eyes.Were in nearly all the same classes she reminded him.

So? You look at things from a different perspective and through different eyes! Cale

told her.He fell into step beside Alice, slinging an arm over her shoulders. He planted a kiss on

her cheek and laughed when she blushed.Yours or mine, sugar? Cale asked.

Yours today, I love your house Alice replied.

Cale nodded and they continued walking down the road until they reached his home.It was a giant red and white farmhouse with a wide front porch. Alice ran up the steps

and straight through the open door.Hey, Emily! she yelled, heading up the stairs to Cales bedroom.


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Hi, Alice, honey! Cales mom shouted back.

Alice threw herself down on Cales double bed and buried her face in his pillow. Caledropped his pack on the carpet and sat by her, his hand on her back.

Im with you very nearly all day, and still they manage to get to you?! he asked,

incredulous.

They always get to me, Cale Alice said, her words muffled in the pillow.Cale shook her shoulder.Are you crying? he wondered aloud.

Maybe came Alices response.

Oh-kay Cale grunted, and he slipped his hands under Alice and flipped her overonto her back.

Alice saw the mischievous glint in his eyes and cringed away from him.Nuh uh she protested.

Cale started tickling her, his fingers hitting her in every one of her ticklish spots until

she began screaming with laughter.Tell me youre happy and Im the best friend ever Cale commanded her, smirking.

Im happy and, ah, ah, and youre the best friend ever!! Alice choked out.She wiped the tears away from her eyes and sat up.

You hungry? Cale asked.

Yeah, I guess Alice replied.Cale held out his hand and Alice took it, following him down to the kitchen. Emily

had set out chocolate chip cookies, still warm from the oven, and a glass jug of homemade lemonade.

Alice smiled happily and jumped up on a kitchen stool. She snatched a cookie and bit

into it. Cale followed suit, devouring his cookie in two huge bites. Alice laughed anddug her elbow into his ribs.

Pig she teased.We know it, sweetheart Emily chuckled, smiling at Alice.

Cale stuck his tongue out at his mother and Alice patted his head.

Dont pat me! Cale objected.What if I wantto pat you? Alice retorted.

Why? Cale said obstinately.Cause youre so cute! Alice told him, smiling falsely like some of the girls at their

tiny high school.

Cale shook his head at her and hopped down, grabbing another biscuit and floppingonto the couch in the lounge.

Emily gestured at her son and nodded. Alice grinned and walked over to the sofa.

Cale was lying flat on his back, so Alice casually sat on his stomach.Oof! Cale gasped.

Alice glanced down at him.This is payback for tickling me, sunshine she informed him.

Cale closed his eyes and sighed heavily. Alice shifted slightly and noticed that Calesstomach was much harder than it used to be. She smiled to herself but didnt give any

remark. The next day was a Saturday and Alice and Cale always had a sleepover at

either of their houses; Alice didnt have to go anywhere. She moved off of Cale andhe pulled himself into a sitting position. He beckoned and Alice curled up next to him,

leaning her head on his shoulder. Cale raised his left hand and Alice threaded herfingers through his.

Emily watched the connection taking place, smiling.Best friends she murmured.


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Cale poked his head up above the back of the couch.

You say something, mom? he asked.Emily shook her head.

No, honey she said.

Cale shrugged and settled down again.

He groaned loudly when My Super Sweet Sixteen came on the TV.Alice, do we have to?? he complained, covering his eyes dramatically.Alice giggled quietly.

Yup! she answered, grinning.

Cale sighed and rested his head on the couch behind him. Alice swiftly kissed hischeek and snuggled into him again. She failed to see Cale staring at her; shed

forgotten that she had never done that before.Emily shook her head fondly and wandered upstairs to call Alices mother, to report

the new progress.

At 9.00, Alice and Cale traipsed up to his room together. Cale fetched Alices toweland threw her spare sleepover belongings at her. He never looked, for fear of seeing

something he didnt want to. Alice laughed at him for it, but he never did.

Alice walked into the bathroom adjoining Cales bedroom, turned the lock and hadher shower. When she came out, Cale was lounging on his bed, banging his head to

the beat of Escape The Fate. Alice laughed again and sat beside him, tousling his thickblack hair.

Your turn she said, smiling as she ran a hand through her dripping hair.

Cale leapt up, grabbed his own towel and dashed for the bathroom.Five minutes later, Alice heard her name called.

Alice?

Yeah? she called back.Could you please chuck in a pair of boxers? I forgotCale asked her, his voice

trailing off subconsciously at the end of his sentence.Sure! Alice told him.

She hunted around in his top drawer before taking out a pair of black satin boxers.Alice knocked on the bathroom door. She heard the bolt slide out and a hand came

around the door. She passed Cale his boxers and returned to her seat on the bed.

Cale exited the bathroom, his hair scruffy and wet. Water droplets clung to his skinand Alice couldnt manage to tear her eyes away from his flat stomach.

When did he get abs?? she thought, screaming to herself.She jolted quickly when she felt two strong fingers beneath her chin, tilting her head

upwards.Alice? Cale inquired questioningly, curious.


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Uhnothing Alice replied hastily.

She looked up into his face, regretting it instantly. Cale Vreelands eyes were asearing emerald and they made their secretive way through to her soul.

Put a shirt on, boy she half snapped.

Cale looked confused.

Why? I always sleep like this he replied, folding his arms in a defiant stance.Just do it Alice pressed.Still confused, Cale went over to his dresser and pulled out a white T shirt, slipping it

over his head.

Better? he asked, cocking his head to the right.Yes Alice said, nodding.

No! she exclaimed in her head.Cale shook his dark head in confusion and frustration.

Were you staring at me? he asked, eyebrows raised.

No Alice said stubbornly before climbing into her side of Cales giant bed.Cale flipped the bedroom light switch off, plunging the room into inky blackness. He

slipped underneath the duvet.Liar Cale whispered.

Alice sighed, shutting her eyes.

In the middle of the night, Cale rolled over and flung his arm over Alices waist, hischin settling in the crook between her neck and shoulder. His hair fell over hers and

his breathing evened out.

2

Monday at school, Cale rounded a building at the end of the day to find Steffie Miller,her horde of evil minions, and her jock boyfriend, Riley Chapman, crowding Alice

into a tiny corner. He heard the cronies giggling raucously and Riley laughingderisively at Alice.

You still in love with me, Al? he asked.Cale stiffened and saw Alices eyes brimming with tears.

Oi! Leave her alone!! he shouted.

Everyone turned and Alice peered over Rileys shoulder to gaze at Cale, her bottomlip trembling. Cale hated that.

Did you say something, Vreeland? Riley demanded.He squared up to Cale, not realizing he was exactly the same height.

Yeah. I did Cale responded, shoving Riley back a step.

Steffie and her clones watched the scene unfold with wide glassy eyes. Alice watchedwith a different personal view; her best friend was fighting for her.

You know what, Chapman? I hate you Cale spat harshly, his green eyes blazing

with cold fury.Alice sucked in a sharp breath of cool air. She had never heard Cale say I hate you

before. Hed never even said hate in a reference to anything.Riley glared at Cale.

He swung a wide punch at Cales head, and missed. Alice continued to watch,

fascinated and worried.

Cale smashed his tightly curled fist into Rileys stomach. Riley tried to slam his openpalm against Cales ear, but he missed entirely again.


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How bad can you get? Cale said, barely skipping a breath, unlike his adversary.

He landed his fist under Rileys chin, knocking his head back. Riley shook his headfeverishly, attempting to recover from the whiplash. He had stepped away from Cale,

so Cale took that chance. In that instant, he took one step forward and head butted

Riley. The other boy stared at him for a second before crumpling in a heap on the

snowy ground.Ignoring the stares and glares of the four girls, Cale gently grasped Alices hand andled her slowly out of the school grounds and into the forest which stood tall between

their two houses. He began to drag her. So fast were his movements, Alice stumbled

over tree roots, slightly bewildered at her friends behavior. Cale was never thisforceful.

What are you doing, Cale? Alice asked him when he finally pulled her to a stop.Getting you away from there, what do you think? Cale barked.

Alice straightened indignantly at the tone of his voice.

I can take care of myself she retorted.Cale snorted.

Hardly! he said, staring at her with disbelief apparent in his eyes.Alice shook her head and started to walk away from him.

Cale grabbed her arm and wrenched her back around to face him.

What? Alice demanded, annoyed.Do you love him? Cale ignored her question, asking one of his own.

Alice looked at him, shocked.What do you mean? she whispered, her voice higher in pitch than before.

What does it sound like to you? I thought you were smarter than this! Cale shouted

angrily.Alice flinched from his outstretched hands and walked backwards.

Cale dropped his hands to his sides and followed her slowly.Do you love that obnoxious jerk? Do you cry yourself to sleep anymore? Do you

want that stupid lame fool? Do you want the guy who gets around more girls than

Robert Pattinson? The guy who dates the flirty cheerleaders that are nothing at all likeyou? Do you want to be with the boy who will never listen to a word you say, but

expects you to hang off every word he says? Would you prefer the guy that wants togo out clubbing to the guy that just wants to sit at home and snuggle? The boy who

pushed you into the mud or the boy who pulled you out of it? he finally finished, his

eyes bright with unsuppressed anger.Alice stared up at him; he was so upset. So mad.

No! I love you! her conscience shouted at her, pushing to be heard.

I love you, though Alice whimpered softly.Cale gazed back down at her and her shoulders slumped in defeat. She had given up

her deepest kept secret and he had said nothing in return.Im sorry? Cale asked quietly.

Alice met his eyes briefly, and then glanced away again.I love you she murmured.

Good Cale said, his voice strong now.

Alice looked bewildered.Why? she asked.

Because I love you, too Cale told her, a small smile tugging at the corners of hismouth.

Alice gaped at him, her eyes wide behind her glasses.Cale chuckled.


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Dont look so surprised, sugar. Ill say it a million times if I have to he said firmly.

I think Ill choose to believe you Alice replied.Cale outright grinned.

Good then.

Just as Alice was about to ask what happens next, Cale caught her up in his arms and

held her to his chest. Alice wrapped her arms tightly around his waist and pressed herface against him. Cale picked her up off the ground and swung her around till sheshrieked with laughter. He placed her gently on her feet and smiled down at her, his

beautiful eyes finally warm and happy instead of cold and furious.

I love you, Alice Cale told her again.She smiled at him.

I love you too, Cale Alice said.She stood up on tiptoe to kiss his cheek. Cale turned his head and Alice found his

mouth instead.

She instantly pulled away, blushing violently.Im sorry Alice mumbled.

No Cale murmured.Alice stared at him, fear in her eyes.

Cale took her hands gently in both of his and pulled her against him. He pressed his

lips to hers softly, gradually bringing his hands up until they cradled her face.Ten seconds. Twenty seconds.

Alice broke away, her face still pink and her gray-green eyes wide. Cale nuzzled hercheek, his hair brushing her feverish skin. His emerald eyes were closed and his lips

curved up into a sweet smile.

Alice wound her arms tightly around his waist, burying her face in his shoulder.Cale kissed her hair before pulling back slightly. He smoothed her fringe and took her

hand.Come on, lets go home he said, beginning to walk in the direction of his house.

I have to babysit Alice told him, shaking her head.

Didnt you babysit all through last week? Cale asked her, his eyebrows raised.I get paid for it Alice shrugged.

Cale sighed and squeezed her hand.Ill come too he said, managing a smile.

Alice laughed.

Dont be so sad! You love Cassi, admit it she protested.Cale rolled his eyes then grinned.

OK, Cassidy is pretty cute he said.

Well, there you go! Alice said brightly, smiling.She tugged on Cale and he followed her back to her house. Entering through the front

door, they were almost bowled over by a small girl with wild dark hair and a widesmile.

Alice and Cale! she shrieked, tangling herself between their legs.Hey, Cassi Alice replied, reaching down and lifting her three year old sister into her

arms.

Cassi placed a kiss on her big sisters cheek before lunging for Cale.Cale, Cale, Cale, Cale!!!! she sang loudly.

Cale took Cassi off of Alice and the little girl snaked her arms in a choke hold aroundhis neck. He carried her off to the living room and sat on the couch with her. Alice

walked behind him and leaned her cheek atop his head when hed sat down. Shesmiled as her sister grinned up at her from Cales lap.


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Alice wandered off to find her mother, at last seeing her in the laundry. Luckily, her

dad was in there too.Parents, Im going out with Cale she announced, a pink tinge creeping over her

cheeks.

Her mom turned and beamed at her, and even her father smiled slightly.

Well done, you picked a good one Annabelle said, kissing the crown of herdaughters head.Jared reached for his oldest child and wound his arms around her, hugging her tightly.

After their hug, Alice skipped back out into the lounge and sat herself down beside

Cale and Cassi on the sofa.Cale flipped his wrist up and checked his watch.

Oh, I gotta go! he exclaimed, gently depositing Cassi on the cushion beside him anddropping a kiss on Alices forehead.

His lips were hot, and long after he had gone, Alices skin itched and burned. She

glanced out the window nearest to her at the swiftly blackening sky, absent mindedlystaring at the round full moon hanging up with the silvery stars.

3

Friday afternoon. The end of the day.Holidays! Alice whooped, laughing and kicking up snow.

During a New Hampshire Christmas, snow was everywhere. Alice was not fond of it,

but she was so happy she didnt care. Cale chuckled, reaching for Alices hand,intertwining their fingers. His hand was warm and Alices fingers were soon heated

up, although the rest of her body remained cold.

Mine or yours? Cale asked, his routine question.Alice tipped her head back to face him and smiled.

Yours she said.Cale switched hands, grabbing Alices left with his left and slinging his right arm

around her shoulders. He matched his footsteps to hers and she giggled girlishly.As soon as the sound left her throat, a sharp look of shock crossed Alices features.

She wasnt the only one surprised.

Where did thatcome from?? Cale asked incredulously.I dont know Alice replied with a small pause between each word.

Youre cute Cale said, laughing.Alice rolled her eyes.

Uh huh she said sarcastically.

Cale ignored that and gently pushed Alice up the steps to his house. Walking throughthe front door, she was immediately knocked backwards by a furry gray and white

husky puppy. She landed in Cales arms, resting easily as the dog continued to leap up

on her.Saffy, down! Cale commanded, carefully leaning Alice back onto her feet.

Saffy sat, tail wagging maniacally, her tongue lolling in a happy doggy grin.Alice knelt down and patted Saffy, scratching behind her ears.

That dog just loves you, girl Cales dad said as he came through to the entry hall to

greet his son.

Alice grinned at him and stood, facing him for their customary hug.


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I hear youre dating my clown of a son? William said, fondly ruffling Cales thick

hair.Cale batted his fathers hand away, ducking out of his reach.

Yes Alice said, smiling shyly.

Williams warm smile turned serious and he stared at Cale sharply.

You take good care of her, OK? he said solidly.Cale wrapped one arm around Alices waist and pulled her to his side.I will he said, mostly to Alice.

William nodded, satisfied.

I bought something for you; its up on your bed he told Cale slyly.Alice missed the wink he gave Cale but Cale didnt. He was horrorstruck, glaring

coldly at his dad, before he let go of Alice and flat out sprinted upstairs to hisbedroom.

Slightly confused, Alice followed him up. She paused at the threshold, watching as

Cales shoulders tensed beneath the fabric of his white T shirt. He was holdingsomething in his hands, staring down at it.

Alice moved into the room, changing angles until she could see Cales face properly.The clearly angry, fixed expression on his face worried her. Alice walked towards

Cale and put her head on his shoulder. She glanced at the box he was clutching and

froze, gripping tightly to Cales right hand.Arrgh, I do notlike my dad right now! Cale groaned, frustrated.

He sat on the edge of his bed and tossed the brightly colored box onto the carpet.Alice said nothing, rubbing her thumb over the back of Cales hand. She knew he

would rant for a while before quieting down.

I was taught all this when I was 13, why is he throwing it at me now? He doesntbelieve in the same values or morals as me, can I move in with you? Cale muttered

loudly, half to himself.You love your parents, and you know it Alice chastised him, kissing him on the

cheek multiple times.

Id still rather live with you Cale argued pleadingly, widening his green eyes andgiving Alice his puppy dog look.

She glanced swiftly away, throwing her hands up in front of her face.No, dont give me that face! she begged him, turning fully away from his gaze.

Alice bounced off the bed, snatched the box off the floor. She pulled out one of Cales

drawers, lifted his T shirts out of the way and tucked the pack underneath.Turning back, Alice saw Cale looking at her, disbelief apparent in his eyes.

You want me to keep them? he asked, shocked.

Alice shrugged.I dont see why not she said with a tiny smile.

Cale raised an eyebrow, and then he changed the subject.Who is it thats coming to see you from L.A.? he asked.

Abbey Alice replied, lying on her stomach on the floor.Whens she arriving?

Tomorrow afternoon Alice told him, lazily closing her eyes and resting her head on

her arms.Cale got down on the floor next to her and ran his fingers through her hair, producing

a smile and a search for his hand. He gave it to her and she kissed his palm.During the next four hours, Alice went home, had dinner, kissed her parents and her

sister goodnight, and went to bed.


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At precisely midnight, a piece of the moon shone silver in the night sky and Alice was

gone. She had disappeared into the black.

4

Cale woke fast, not bothering to dress properly before booking it over to Alices

house. He didnt bother with the gate, instead choosing to scale the wrought iron

fence. He was running the moment he hit the ground and then he scrambled up theoutside balcony leading to Alices bedroom. He cracked the glass door open and

padded through it, his bare feet quiet on the soft carpet. Rushing to Alices bed, Caleknew instinctively that she wasnt in it. He placed his hand on the part of the bed that

Alice slept in, feeling that it was cold. Cale let out a small whimper, before suddenly

shuddering on his feet. His figure phased blurringly and he fell to all fours. Calesentire body became elongated and grew thick, dark fur. Green eyes glowed in a dark

face and sharp black claws clicked on the balcony floor. Cales second form was lithe,muscular and wide, his senses one hundred times sharper.

The giant wolf leapt over the rail, making a thud on the damp snowy ground outside.

Cale ran, his sensitive nose near to the ground.

All that Alice could feel was cold. That meant Cale was not with her. He always

joined her halfway through the night and she always woke with him lying beside her.She shivered, rolling over onto her back. Stretching, Alice attempted to move her

arms and found that she couldnt. She tried moving her legs and failed. Alice opened

her eyes and tugged hard. She was tethered to each post of a four poster bed by leatherstraps. The room she was in was shadowy but she could see the tight knots securing

her.

Where was she? Panic started to overtake her and she was glad that she hadnt eatenor it was likely that she would throw up. If she didnt know where she was, how was

anyone else going to? A sharp scratching alerted her to the fact that she wasnt all byherself in here. Alice realized the sound was mice but she couldnt relax. Someone

had just walked in and switched on a light; a single bare bulb hanging from the

ceiling. The person was a tall guy with pale skin, violet eyes and dark blonde hair tied

back from his face in a long ponytail. He stared at her with no expression on his faceor in his unusual eyes.


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Im not going to say much he said, revealing brief glimpses of flashy white teeth.

He approached Alice with inhuman speed, carrying a needle and syringe. He stood byher head and shoved the glinting needle into her arm. He pushed the plunger down

and Alice saw her own blood filling the syringe. She saw the boy empty the blood

into a transparent vial, cork it and place it carefully on a lab table in one corner of the

nearly empty room.The thoughts in Alices head went wild, rampant and she thrashed against the bed.Her captor smirked and laughed. He sat down to wait.

Cale kept running, his four paws pounding the cool earth. He had barely rested duringthe past three days. Alice was in the forefront of his mind, but in the background were

his parents, Alices parents and the fact that Abbey would be at her friends house by

now. How awkward would it be, being surrounded by Alices parents for two or moredays?

Cale ceased his sprint abruptly, lowered his nose to the grass again, and breathed indeep. His keen eyes scanned the small blades and picked up on something wet and

dark. Blood. His girls blood. He stretched out his stride and ran and ran and ran.

Alice lay, chilled and drained, on the bed. She stared across the room at the white lab

desk, at the twelve stoppered vials filled with her blood. The boy with the dark purpleeyes was always watching her, occasionally smiling. Alice had nothing else to do, so

she often found herself looking at him, tracing his sharp features with her eyes. Hewas handsome, but so pale and stoically silent. Not a patch on Cale. Alices mouth

was dry and her breathing strained. She sorely missed Cales boyish good looks, his


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green eyes and dark messy hair, his bright smile, his gentle, steady hands and his

intelligent charm. How she needed him right there and right then.

Cale reached a long, low bungalow with a grey slated roof and shuttered windows,

caked in ice. He could smell more of Alices blood, but the smell seemed cold andshut away. He phased back to his human form, standing up, slightly unsteady on his

feet after days of being a giant wolf on four paws. Cale glanced down, thankful that

he could phase, phase again and still be wearing whatever hed been wearing beforehe phased the first time. In this case, his black boxers would have to do. He thumped

the heels of his hands against the front door a few times before it swung inward,admitting him into pitch blackness. He walked carefully, staring hard at the floor, and

watching for any sharp, unexpected objects that might get the chance to imbed

themselves in his bare feet. Cale concentrated hard on any sounds he could hear, andmanaged to pick out noisy frightened breathing coming from straight ahead of him.

He continued down what must be a hallway and came to a solid door with a rounddoorknob at the center of the wood.

Odd Cale thought, but he turned it and proceeded inside.

The sight that greeted him displeased him greatly and made him upset. Alice was tiedto a huge four postered bed; her eyes were shut and it was her breathing that Cale had

heard. It was sharp and fitful. She sounded exhausted. Cale frowned and turned grimeyes around the room, stopping on the boy unfolding himself from the cold stone

floor. Cale narrowed his eyes and his lips curled back from his teeth, showing off

perfectly straight, white teeth.Vladimir he snarled softly.

Alices eyes flew open, flickering wildly around the empty walls. She stared at Caleeventually and brought a dry smile to her white face.

Thank you she whispered, casting her eyes to the ceiling in a grateful prayer.

Vladimir walked towards Cale, his stride even and purposeful.How you doing? Living life and partying it up? While Ive been rotting away in a

cell for the past two years? You, a mere fourteen year old boy put me away in a prison

for so long, but Im out now, wolf he hissed, angry.Alice switched her gaze back to Cale.

Wolf? she thought, confused and shocked.What? she croaked.

Cale turned to her.Oh, so you havent told her? Vladimir grinned.

No Cale replied through gritted teeth.

What? Alice repeated.Do it. Show her Vladimir taunted.

Cale sighed and blurred down into his wolf. His green eyes gazed beseechingly atAlice, his head cocked to one side. He whipped his heavy tail into Vladimirs knees

and jumped up next to Alice. His razor sharp teeth cut through the leather ties. Alicewas finally able to sit up. She rubbed her chafed wrists and ankles and stared at the


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animal that was her best friend. Cale gently licked Alices hand, his eyes big and

beautiful.Alice knelt on the bed and wrapped her shivery arms around Cales neck, pressing her

cold face against his warm fur. She smiled and rubbed her cheek against his face. Cale

made a low, happy sound in the back of his throat. He nudged Alices head gently

with his, then leapt down and approached Vladimir again.The vampire was no fool, but Cale was tired and sick of his loves captor. He grabbedone of Vladimirs wrists in his teeth, twisted and pulled. Cracking sounds filled the

air, over and over again as Cale tore off Vladimirs hands, his arms, then his head.

As soon as he was done, Cale changed back to his normal self, and walked over toAlice. She had been staring at him the whole time he was ripping Vladimir apart, limb

from limb.Cale cupped Alices face in his hands gently and looked her in the eye.

I wont hurt you he said.

Alice nodded, slightly dazed.I know she murmured.

She crawled onto Cales lap and her hands crept slowly around his neck. Cale rubbedher back in slow circles. He kissed her on the forehead and leaned back a bit.

I need to get you home, honey. By now, absolutely everybody will be panicking he

said softly.Mhmm Alice mumbled unintelligently.

She allowed Cale to maneuver her onto his back and stand up with her arms claspedtightly around his neck. Cale ran her home, keeping his long stride as even as he

could.

Alice woke the next morning with small circular bandages in various places on herarms and one of her best friends sitting in a chair beside the bed.

Hey, how are you feeling? Abbey asked her.Bloodless and weird, but other than that, Im good Alice replied, smiling.

Abbey hugged her, careful not to put any unnecessary pressure on her arms.Move, move, move! Is she up?? a frantic voice came through the bedroom door.

Alice stared at her bedroom door as it crashed open, banging against the wall so hard

it rebounded in Cales face as he burst through it. She smiled at his appearance. Calesblack hair stuck up in random tufts all over his head and his pajama pants hung down

round his feet.Hey! Alice, youre awake finally. You OK? he demanded.

Yes Alice told him.


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Abbey glanced at her, then up at Cale. He looked at her and smiled briefly before

sitting beside Alice on the bed. He hadnt seen Abbey for four years: she was almostthe same height as Alice, but slightly shorter.

How much time you got here? he asked.

Five days Abbey answered.

Alice tried to sit up but Cale gently pushed her back onto her pillow.You have to stay in bed for at least a day he said firmly.Alice shook her head at him.

I have to get dressed and get up. Im bored she retorted.

She pushed herself up and swung her legs over the side of her bed. She shooed awayany helping hands and stood up.

Now, get out. I can get dressed by myself, you know Alice said, grinning.Cale nodded, resigned, and walked out of the room. Abbey went after him and shut

the door behind her.

Alice went for warmth: black sweat pants, a white long sleeved T shirt and thickfluffy bed socks. She tamed her hair and tied it into a ponytail, small tendrils escaping

and framing her face. Trotting downstairs, Alice beamed when she saw Saffy,straining against Cales grip. She pulled away, tearing up to Alice and leaping on her.

Saffy, get down! Cale called, starting to his feet.

Alice waved him away and picked Saffy up, allowing the husky puppy to nuzzle herface and lick her. Cale sighed at Alices unwillingness to look after herself and not put

any undue stress on her drained body. Alice kissed Saffy on top of her head andplaced her on the floor. She went over to Cale and sat next to him, patting his hair

back into place. Leaving her hand on Cales head, Alice stroked the hair at the back of

his neck. She twirled a stray strand around her finger and waited for her parents to saysomething to her.

Where were you and what the heck happened to you? her mother began.I dont know where I was and its up to Cale whether I tell you what went down or

not Alice told her, turning her head to face Cale.

Annabelle stared at Cale, her blue eyes narrowed.Cale? she asked, her tone questioning.

Im sorry, Annabelle. I cant tell you. You wouldnt believe me if I did Cale repliedslowly, his eyes sad.

Annabelle straightened her shoulders and her husband slipped an arm round her waist.

We just have to be thankful that Alice is home safe and sound and that there isnothing more wrong with her than a few needle holes in her skin. Shell be fine Jared

said kindly.

Annabelle turned away and vanished into her kitchen.

5

Alice watched Cales bedroom window from her own room. Cale was sitting on his

bed, his guitar resting on his lap, but he wasnt playing it. He was staring off intospace, repeatedly shaking his head. Alice sighed and faced away from her window.

He doesnt like me, does he? Abbey asked, frowning.

Alice looked at her and shrugged helplessly.

I dont think he does she said quietly.Does he love you?


14/30

Alice raised her eyebrows and stared over the top of her glasses.

I think so she said, a smile lighting her eyes. Hes my best friend and Ive knownhim since I was five she added, looking out the window again.

I thoughtIwas your best friend Abbey said sharply.

Alice stared at her, her gaze turned calculating and harsh.

I met you seven years ago. I met Cale eleven years ago and hes been there for meever since then. You come and go whenever you want, picking the times when Imhappy and its safe to be around me. Cales there when Im angry or upset. Cale was

there when I got my first period; he freaked out, by the way. He was there with me on

my first day of high school; he was there when I was depressed. Hes there when Imcrying and cant stop and he always helps when Im getting harassed at school. When

are you there? she asked, her voice cold.I live miles and miles away from here Abbey replied, haughty.

There is such a thing as a phone Alice said sarkily.

Well I cant read minds! How am I supposed to know when youve gone all loopy?Abbey snapped back.

Alice narrowed her eyes, for a split second looking exactly like her mother.I aint loopy. I cant help what I feel she said darkly.

Abbey sneered.

So you decide to fall in love with that emo freak next door? she said, contempt fairdripping from her words.

Alice stood up in front of Abbey, her eyes flashing.Out. Now she said between clenched teeth.

Abbey stared at her, shocked.

What? she said in disbelief.Get out of my room and get out of my house Alice told her, making her words slow

and deliberate.Where do you expect me to go? Abbey questioned.

Home. To L.A. Alice told her.

Wha- Fine.Abbey got up off the bed and started throwing her stuff into her suitcase. Alice stood

over her, watching stonily. Once Abbey had finished, she straightened up, lifted hersuitcase, cast a venomous look at Alice, and walked downstairs.

Alice could hear her coolly asking Jared if he could drive her to the airport for an

earlier flight back home. Alice could tell that her dad was confused, but he agreed totake Abbey to the nearest airport.

Meanwhile, Alice crept silently down the stairs, along the hallway, and out the back

door. She ran through the small expanse of forest between her home and Cales andthen up the stone steps to his front door. Without knocking, Alice sped inside, shouted

a loud greeting to Emily, and then rushed upstairs to Cales bedroom.Cale glanced up as soon as Alice came in. She stopped at the look in his eyes. They

were filled with questions and sadness.Alice sat by him and brushed his fringe away from his face.

Whats wrong, Cale? she asked, concerned.

Are you just going to completely ignore me for the next five days and hang out withyour friend? Cale replied, obviously upset.

Alices shoulders slumped, but a small smile crept onto her face.Why would I ignore you? she wondered aloud.

Cale looked at her and shrugged dejectedly.I dunno. Cause you prefer to spend time with a girl than with me? he suggested.


15/30

Alice couldnt help laughing then.

Not even close! Abbeys gone home she told Cale, ruffling his hair.Why, what happened? Cale asked, finally turning to face Alice.

We had a fight and I told her to leave Alice said simply.

But you dont seem upset or annoyed. What was the fight about? Cale said

curiously.You Alice replied.Cale looked taken aback.

Me? Why?? he asked, confused.

Abbey was wondering why I decided to love that emo freak next door Alice toldhim, forming quotation marks in the air with her fingers.

Cale snorted.Gee, thanks he scoffed, shaking his head.

Alice lay her head on his shoulder.

I know. It made me angry. And she was going on about how she was supposed to bemy best friend. When that happens, it always annoys me she said, yawning.

Cale heard it and rolled his eyes.See? I told you to stay in bed, but nooo, you wouldnt listen to me! he complained.

Alice reached down to her feet and unlaced her black Converse high-tops. She pulled

them off her feet and threw them on the floor. Cale watched, intrigued, as Aliceclambered over his bed, yanked down the covers and slid beneath them.

What are you doing? Cale asked.You want me to stay in bed, Im staying in bed. Does it matter that its your bed?

Alice responded.

I guess not Cale said, smiling slightly.Good Alice said, snuggling deeper into the bed.

Five hours later, unable to find their daughter, Jared and Annabelle brought Cassiround to Emily and Williams house to look for her there. Emily smiled knowingly at

her friends and beckoned them to follow her upstairs. They did so while William took

Cassi and hefted her up onto his shoulders; she giggled and pulled his hair.Up in the doorway of Cales bedroom, the other three adults looked on as Alice slept

in Cales bed, her head turned away from everyone. Cale was curled around her, hisdark head resting on her stomach.

As they watched, Cale shifted and rubbed his knuckles against his eyes. He sat up andran his hand through his hair, at last becoming aware of his audience.


16/30

Can I help you? he asked, his voice groggy and thick.

Emily shook her head and smiled at him.No, honey. Go back to sleep she said, nodding her head in Alices direction.

Cale slipped an arm over Alices waist and lay back down. His eyes gradually

fluttered shut and his muscles relaxed.

Annabelle looked up to her husband and saw Jareds dark grey eyes filling withtranslucent tears. He sniffed and she nudged his arm.Dont be such a wuss she whispered.

Emily grinned and led them all out of the room, leaving her son and his best friend to

sleep.

6

Alices alarm clock beeped at 6.30 am on the first day back at school. She groaned

and flicked it off, rolling over onto her other side. She giggled when she came face toface with Cassi. Her little sister was still sleeping so she got up quietly and put on her

school uniform; white short sleeved blouse, black skirt just above the knee, white

knee length socks, black lace ups and black tie. She brushed her hair, fixed her fringeand traipsed down to the kitchen.

Do you have any idea where your sister is? Annabelle asked.Shes asleep in my bed Alice told her.

Annabelle laughed and nodded.

Yes, she hasnt been sleeping well lately, poor thing she said.She passed a plate of toast to Alice as she hopped up at the table.

The screen door slammed loudly and Cale ran inside, his hair drenched and dripping

onto his black school blazer.Its raining he stated, blinking rain water out of his eyes.

Alice laughed and waved at him.Cale scuffed his shoe awkwardly back and forth on the kitchen tile. He stared at his

feet and wiped his hair out of his eyes.Alice watched, her head tilted to the side, curious.

Whys he acting all nervous? He practically lives here! she thought.

She stepped away from the table and walked over to Cale. Wrapping her arms aroundhis waist, she snuggled into his chest and closed her eyes.

Ill just go and brush my teeth and then Im ready to go, OK? she told him,muffling her words in his wet jacket.

Sure Cale replied, nodding, his chin resting on the top of her head.

Alice dashed upstairs and into the bathroom, brushed her teeth carefully, rinsed, andran back down to the waiting Cale.

He smiled at her and held out his hand; Alice took it and they walked out the door,

calling goodbye to her mom. They ran the ten minute walk to school, becomingsoaked very quickly.

I so should have worn my raincoat Alice complained, laughing.Cale looked down at her and shook his head, sending droplets of water all over her

already wet face. Alice wiped her face with the damp sleeve of her blazer. She

combed her fingers through her hair and attempted to flatten her fringe. Both of them

froze as Steffie Miller waltzed past. She smirked at them and pointed at Alices hair.


17/30

Whats this? Trying for a new fashion statement, Al? What is it, wet rat? Its not

working for yousorry! she squealed, laughing loudly.Alice glanced down at the ground and saw Cales hand slowly flexing into a fist.

She elbowed him gently.

Shh, no, dont do that she muttered under her breath to him.

Steffie looked over her shoulder, still cackling, as she walked away from them downthe school corridor.I really wanna knock her block off Cale hissed to himself.

If you do, the only thing that will happen is that youll get in huge trouble and you

will probably end up getting suspended Alice said, trying to calm him down.I know Cale sighed, frustrated.

Alice patted his shoulder, then pulled his blazer off. She shook it out and draped itover a hall heater. It let off a slight hissing sound. Cale leaned against the heater,

attempting to dry the rest of his clothes while he was wearing them. His white shirt

was clinging to his skin, and Alice forcefully tugged her eyes away from his torso.She checked in her backpack for her photo portfolio. They were pictures of Cale that

he didnt have any idea shed taken. Alice took them out and looked through themevery so often.

Cales hair was slowly drying, but Alices wasnt. She pulled a hair tie off of her left

wrist and swiftly tied her hair in a messy ponytail.All right, come on. We might as well head to class, now she decided, pushing Cale

off the heater and moving with him along the hall.Cale looked beside him and grinned to himself.

What do I have first, sugar? he asked.

Alice rolled her eyes and smiled.History she replied, quick off the mark, as per usual.

Thanks Cale said, stooping to kiss her cheek before disappearing into a classroomby himself.

Alice hummed to herself as she carried on to English.

Just before lunch, the entire school was called into an assembly. Cale joined up withAlice in line and sat with her in the middle of the crowds.

Do you know what this is about? Alice whispered.Cale shrugged and shook his head.

No clue he murmured.Alice shrugged too, and straightened in her seat to face the front of the school hall.


18/30

Cale wrapped his fingers around Alices hand and faced the podium on the stage as

the schools headmaster stepped up to it. He narrowed his green eyes at the man,noticing that he looked nervous, borderline panicky, and his hands were shaking.

Now, children, I do not want any of you to worry, but the school has gone into

lockdown Mr. Granger began.

The whispers started immediately.Granger banged on the top of the podium with his closed fist.Excuse me! We dont know who is on the school grounds at this moment, but you

are all strongly advised to remain in the hall until further notice. As it is already, you

are unable to leave because the doors are all shut and locked. Please remain seated hesaid loudly, before returning to his seat at the very front of the hall.

Alice swiveled on her chair to face Cale.Could it be Vladimir? she whispered frantically.

Cale squeezed her hand reassuringly.

No, hes dead he told her confidently.Alice nodded and stared at nothing.

The lights went out and footsteps were heard, approaching from one of the rearcorners of the hall.

As everyones eyes adjusted to the new darkness, students flinched away from the

dark robed figure striding down the center aisle. The man stood on the stage, staringdown at them all through coal black eyes. He had a light brown curl hanging over his

forehead, and despite the scent of fear, Alice could hear some of the girls swooningover the man who was preventing them from leaving, and who possibly wanted to kill

them. She couldnt help rolling her eyes as she gripped tighter to Cales hand.

The shadows swirled around the man on stage. Cale was forced to focus his senses,sharpening them until he could see the type of weaponry the man carried on him.

He leaned slightly to his left and whispered in Alices ear.Hes got a double barreled shotgun, a machete and a saber he informed her, keeping

his voice low and soft.

Alice stared over at him, her shock plainly evident on her face.A machete?? she mouthed.

Cale nodded and Alice sat very still, watching the strange dark eyed man. He smiled.We are going to play a game of tag, children. The doors to the hall are, in fact, not

locked. I will give yall a five minute head start. However, the exit doors throughout

the rest of the school are locked, so your hiding skills, I sincerely hope, areexemplary. Run, children. Run he said, his hand on his gun holster.

There was a moment of indecision then everyone made a dash for the doors at the

back of the hall. Cale jumped up, snatched Alices hand again and pulled her after himat a run.

Five minutes he muttered.Footsteps behind them. They ran harder, their feet pounding against the cracked

linoleum floor.The corridor had emptied and the sound of slamming doors echoed in the air, frantic

whisperings and shouts of fear. One last door shut and after there was only silence.

Alice felt her hand as it was torn from Cales, and screamed.Cale whipped around and saw her as she reached for him with both hands. The sharp

sound of his own name filled his ears as Alice screamed it, over and over again.NO!!! his mind shouted at him. Not again!

The man in the black coat smiled at him, baring sharp white teeth. He turned and halfcarried, half dragged Alice around a corner.


19/30

Cale could feel himself heating up dangerously fast, and tried to calm enough to cool

down again, but nothing was working. He allowed a snarl to rip up his throat beforehis form blurred and darkened and he was replaced by his stronger self; his wolf.

Alice stayed silent as her captor moved her into an empty classroom and locked the

door behind them. She didnt want to die, so she started talking.Who are you? she asked, staring at the mans back until he faced her.

He shrugged nonchalantly.Nobody particularly important to you. Important to Vladimir, though he said, a

slight frown creasing his features.

What are you to him? Alice demanded, understanding dawning even as she spoke.I am his brother, Drake. Your boyfriend killed him Drake sneered the word

boyfriend.Alice nodded; she had guessed correct.

Cale was simply better she said smartly.

Wolves? Theyre not better than us Drake retorted, his eyes seeming to blackenmore.

Mine is Alice persisted, smiling secretly to herself.Drake suddenly growled and swiped the back of his hand across Alices cheek. At the

last second, he flipped his hand and raked his nails over her skin.

Alice tried to make no sound as she felt rivulets of blood run down her face. Out ofthe corner of her eye, she saw Drake stiffen and turn in her direction once again.

Not again she thought, remembering the last time her blood had been removed fromher body.

A noisy thump on the door made them both focus their attention on the shaking wood.

Alice glanced up at Drake and saw him smiling widely and reaching for his machete.She leapt up and ran at the classroom door. She managed to turn the lock before

Drake knocked her to the floor. He attempted to lock the door again but was too late;

Cale came rocketing into the room and pinned Drake on the carpet.Alice scrambled up off the floor and threw the rest of Drakes weapons arsenal out the

window at the opposite side of the room. She heard a strangled noise come from Caleand hurried to him, staying well clear of Drakes flailing stone hard hand. The

massive wolf rolled off Drake, taking his head with him in his steel like teeth. Drakehad ceased any form of movement, but Cale stayed in place where he had rolled over.

Alice went to him again and saw with horror that before Drake had died, hed

managed to bury his machete in Cales chest.In front of her eyes, Cale changed back into himself, the machete clattering onto the

floor beside him. Alice eyed it nervously, seeing half the blade coated with Calesdark red blood.

Cale?Please wake up! Alice pleaded quietly.


20/30

Cale groaned and coughed, bringing up more blood. As carefully and gently as she

could, Alice helped him onto his feet, though he slumped heavily against her, one ofhis arms slung around her small shoulders.

Come on, weve gotta get you to the hospital Alice coaxed, walking slowly but

steadily towards the front of the school.

She tried the door handle, remembering what Drake had said, but it turned out that itwas a bluff to get everyone scared out of their wits. The door opened without a hitch.Thank the Lord I just got my drivers license Alice thought, heading straight for her

car, at the same time wondering why it had stayed in the school parking lot

throughout the school holidays.She unlocked it and assisted Cale as he half fell onto the back seat. Alice pushed his

legs and feet inside the car as well and closed the door. She climbed in the front andtwisted in her seat to check on Cale. He was unconscious, lying on his stomach,

soaking the seat with his blood.

Hurry, hurry, hurry Alice told herself, shoving in the key with trembling hands andturning it.

The car rumbled to a start and she sped to the closest hospital to the high school.

Half an hour later, both Alices parents and Cales parents had joined her in thehospital waiting room. Cale was currently being examined in a hospital room by a

doctor with blue eyes and a surfer look. He barely looked like he was out of medical

school to Alice, and she hoped that Cale would be safe.Emily held Alices hand tightly in hers, bowing her head and murmuring prayer after

prayer under her breath. Ten long minutes later, the doctor returned to the white

waiting room and smiled at them. His teeth were too falsely bright and Alice absentlywondered who his dentist was.

Emily and William stood up at once, waiting impatiently for the physician to speakthe long awaited verdict.

Are you Cale Vreelands parents? the guy asked, still smiling infuriatingly at them.Yes, we are William said crossly, staring hard at the doctor.

Im Dr. Palmer. Your son is in a stable condition, although the gash in his chest is

severe and quite deep. Do you know what caused it? Palmer said, raising hiseyebrows.

Emily turned round and looked at Alice. She swallowed and stood up to stand next toher.

Yes? Palmer asked.


21/30

Alice bristled at the tone in his voice that said what could this kid possibly know

about anything?Cale got the slash from a machete she said, with as much teenaged dignity that she

could muster.

Emily gasped and William turned his stare incredulously onto Alice. She felt her

fathers hands clamp down on her shoulders and her mothers arm slide around herwaist.Honey, a machete? Are you sure? Jared asked uncertainly.

Yep, Im sure Alice replied stoically, setting her jaw firmly.

William faced Dr Palmer again and nodded.If Alice Nichols says that my son got hit by a machete, then Ill believe her. Id stake

my life on anything this girl says he said, his gaze steady.The doctor shrugged and shook his head, obviously not believing it.

Fine then. A machete. Anyway, the boy is going to be fine; he suffered seriously

from loss of blood though. Itll be a while before hes completely back to normalagain Palmer told them, beginning to wander away.

Alice took a step after him.Wait a minute! When can we see him? she called obstinately.

Dr Palmer turned back and looked at her skeptically.

Did I not mention that? You can see him now he said, then walked off again.Alice looked back at the small gathering of relatives behind her and waved them

forward.Come on you lot! We can see Cale now she told them, hurrying after Dr Palmer.

The others followed her and soon they were all inside a pristine white room with Cale

lying flat on his back in a hospital bed.He heard them enter and strained to lift his head and look at them. An expression of

confusion passed over his face as his eyes clocked his mom, his dad, Alices mom,then her dad, but not Alice. She walked in last, at the end of the line.

Cales eyes lit up and a broad smile stretched his mouth wide. Alice walked to the

side of the bed and sat on the edge of the white mattress, trying hard not to jolt Calewith the sudden weight. She slipped her small hand into Cales bigger one and

squeezed gently. She leant down and softly kissed his cheek, then his forehead.Resting her cheek on his, Alice felt something hot and wet on her skin. She pulled

away and looked down at Cale. He was crying, sobbing silently, his shoulders

shaking. Alice tightened her hold on his hand and tousled his hair gently.Hey, hey, shh she murmured, stroking the back of his hand with her thumb.

Emily came forward with her husband and kissed her sons damp cheek, brushing his

fringe away from his face; it was no use, it fell back anyway. William awkwardly sidehugged his son, followed by Annabelle and Jared.

Cale was silent throughout all of it, still staring at Alices hand in his.I love you, Cale she whispered to him, her lips pressed to his left temple.

She waited patiently for a reply, but none came. Worry settled like a stone in the pit ofher stomach.

Mama, can you go get Dr Palmer, please? Quick! Alice begged.

Annabelle jumped up from her chair and ran out the door. A few seconds later, sheran back in with the doctor close on her heels.

Dr Palmer quickly ran through several checks of Cale, but came up with nothing newthat was seriously wrong with him. He called in a nurse and she ran one more

examination on Cale. This time, the test was one for any reactions to a trauma of anytype. Some part of the test came up positive. The nurse told them the results and


22/30

Emily started crying immediately. William appeared too shocked to move and

Annabelle comforted Emily while Jared just sat in his chair, watching his daughter forher reaction. There wasnt much of one that was noted. Alice merely stayed sitting,

holding Cales hand in both of hers, not saying anything at all as he continued to cry.

She was eerily calm, seeing as she had just been informed that her best friend and

boyfriend had been rendered mute. They wouldnt hear his distinctive Southern drawlagain.

7

Cale returned to school the following week with Alice tight by his side. Word had

gotten round quickly that Cale Vreeland couldnt talk, and kids lined up to stare at

him. Cale smiled good naturedly and left the aggravated reproaches to Alice. Teachersavoided speaking to him, also refraining from making any eye contact with him.

Alice was able to stay with Cale all day because her time table had been rescheduledto match his. He was happier that way. Facial expressions and hand gestures had to be

paid more attention to now that Cale couldnt say anything. School days passed

slowly and days off were welcomed and enjoyed more than ever. Alice spent all ofher free time with Cale, sometimes bringing Cassi with her if she was needed to

babysit. She watched how gentle Cale acted with Cassi, letting her climb all over himas if he were a human playground.

Summer arrived sooner than expected and Alice was over at Cales as soon as she was

dressed. Cale was still in bed, though sitting up and reading. He grinned when he saw

her and flung back the covers, gesturing at his lap. Alice slipped off her tan boots andclambered onto him. Her back was against his bare chest with her head tucked

beneath his chin. Cale reached for Alices hands, twisting his fingers through hers and

kissing the back of her neck. Alice could hear and feel Cales breathing moving herhair and smiled. He shifted suddenly, grabbing a ring bound notebook off his bedside

table. A pen appeared in his hand and he scribbled something on a page in his messyblack scrawl. Once he was done, Cale put the pen away and passed the notebook to

Alice. What she read surprised her and sent her brain into overdrive.

I want a babyCale had written.

Alice turned her head to look at Cale, her eyes confused and wide.


23/30

Cale tapped his index finger on the bottom of the page and Alices eyes were drawn to

another small amount of writing there.

With youthe words said.

Alice stared at him, slightly shocked, even scared. A shy smile spread across Calesface and he blinked innocently at her.

Alice climbed carefully off his lap and stood awkwardly on the carpet, twisting herhands self consciously in front of her. Cale got out of bed, standing before her,wearing an expression of concern. He raised his hands, palms up, in front of him.

Whats wrong?Alice sighed and closed her eyes, shaking her head slowly.

Cale, I have never wanted children. I still dont she said.

Cale tilted his head.Ever Alice said softly.

Cale stared at her, his eyes revealing a wounded soul. He snatched up his notebookand pen, and wrote one more word, showing it to Alice.

Abortion?

Alice looked at him and shrugged.Cale turned his back on her and she saw his shoulders beginning to shake

convulsively.Too late, Alice remembered that Cales mom had at first considered aborting him. The

subject always made him upset even though he knew Emily loved him. She wrapped

her arms around his waist, turning him so she could see his face.Cale was strong, but his feelings were sensitive and at that moment, his feelings were

in the form of crystal tears on his face.Alices heart melted and she kissed his cheek, running her fingertips through his hair.

Im sorry, Cale. Honey, you know I love you more than anything she murmured.

Cale pulled out of her embrace and picked up the notebook for the third time.Then why wont you give me a baby?

Alice frowned.Babies arent delivered by storks, Cale Thomas Vreeland! she snapped.

Cale poked his tongue out at her, but a small smile replaced his own upset frown. He

grabbed Alices waist and pulled her tight against him. Her nose was barely twocentimetres from the center of Cales chest.

Hmph she grunted.Cale gently lifted Alices chin up and pressed his mouth onto hers. She smiled into his

kiss, feeling Cales nose brushing hers. Cale gently captured Alices bottom lip

between his teeth and tugged, then stepped back from her, grinning at the surprised

expression on her face. He put his index fingers and thumbs together to make a loveheart, indicating that he loved Alice. Alice smiled again and nodded.I love you, too she replied.

Three years ahead

Alice was heading to college at the University of California and Cale was taking a job

in a local band, performing at bars and such. They would be at least 2576 miles apartfrom each other, the first time theyd truly been apart since the day they met.


24/30

Cale sat in the middle of Alices bed, watching listlessly while she packed her

belongings, getting ready to fly away from him. She moved about hurriedly,impatiently shoving her red hair behind her ears. She finally wrestled her last suitcase

into closing and slumped on the floor. Alice rested her head in her hands and shut her

eyes. A piece of lined paper landed in her lap; she unfolded it and read it.

I already miss you, baby.Alice knelt up and looked at Cale, smiling sadly at her. He spread his arms wide, butbefore Alice could get to him, her dad entered her bedroom.

Time to go he told her, nodding at Cale.Alice sighed heavily and stood up, holding her hand out to Cale; he took it and pushed

himself off Alices bed, following her out the door while Jared grabbed the luggage.

They drove to the airport, Alice checked in, separated her hand luggage from thesuitcases and duffel bag, and then sat in the departing area, waiting for her flight to be

called. Shed been to California once before, with Cale. Now she would be going allon her own.

All three of them jumped when the intercom system announced that Alices flight was

boarding.Alice hugged her father then turned round and stared up into Cales face. He seemed

to be trying to memorize her from head to toe, as if he was afraid he might one dayforget what she looked like. Cale opened his arms again and Alice walked into them

on unsteady feet. He held onto her tightly, her head on his left shoulder. Cales warm

tears fell onto Alices hair and he sniffed hard. Jared coughed suggestively, but Aliceignored him, clinging to Cales broad shoulders.

Cale gradually pulled away, staring into Alices eyes before he lowered his head andkissed her, his mouth moving urgently on hers. He moved his head away and kissed

her swiftly, once, twice, three times, in quick succession.

At last, Alice stepped away from Cale, his wistful longing clear in his emerald eyes.She memorized the width of his shoulders, the green of his eyes, the dark hair falling

over his forehead, the set of his mouth as he held back more tears, even the way hisjeans settled on his hips.and then she walked away from him.

8

In her dorm, Alice had just finished sticking up photos on the wall when a tall girl

walked into the room. She had waist length dark brown curly hair and hazel eyes. She

smiled upon seeing Alice and extended her hand for shaking.Hi! Im Stacy Jones, and you are? the girl said in a friendly tone.

Alice shook her hand.Im Alice Nichols she said, managing a smile.

Stacy dumped her bags and glanced around her. She walked over to Alices side andlooked at the photos.

Wow, is that guy your boyfriend? Stacy asked, pointing to a photo of Cale pushing

Alice on a swing at a park.Alice nodded.

Yeah, his names Cale she said, gazing at the bright picture.Stacy turned at the tone of Alices voice and frowned.

Do you miss him?Alice cleared her throat.


25/30

Yes she muttered, feeling tears itch behind her eyes.

Is he back at home?A nod.

And where is home?

New Hampshire Alice told her.

Stacy whistled.Thats a far cry from sunny Cali she observed.Yeah, I know Alice agreed.

Trying to brighten up, she kept talking.

Where are you from? she asked Stacy.Florida. My boyfriend Seth is still there, holding down a job at a rock climbing

place. This is him Stacy replied, pulling a creased photo out of a back pocket in hercutoff jeans.

Alice took it and looked down at the faded image of a slim guy, about 21, with spiky

brown hair, brown eyes and a white smile. She smiled and handed it back.Stacy grinned.

Were engaged. Were getting married at the end of this semester she revealed,unable to contain her excitement.

Alice promptly burst into tears.

Stacy looked at the shorter girl in horror; five minutes and already she was crying?She hugged Alice, patting her on the back, attempting to comfort her. Alice snuffled

and wiped her eyes, thankful for Stacy.Sorry she said quietly.

Stacy shook her head.

No, its OK. Dont be sorry she replied.Alice sat on her dormitory bed and grabbed her old portfolio from the tiny side table.

She opened the file and looked for a long time at each photo. Several of them were ofCale when he could still speak, but a few others were of him after that fateful day at

school and after he was said to be mute.

Stacy sat beside her, glancing at the pictures, one by one.Does he know you have these of him? she asked.

Alice laughed and Stacy smiled in relief.No, he doesnt. I mighttell him. One day Alice said, slipping the photos back into

their folder.

The girls went about their business, sorting out all their stuff and eventually gettingready for bed. When they were in bed, they sat up and talked for a while, asking each

other about their distinctive other halves. Answers were swapped and they became

fast friends. Stacy urged Alice to speak first, and so she gladly lurched into thewonder that was Cale.

Cale and I met when we were five. He helped me up when a bigger kid was pushingme into the mud. We were born on the same day, the 19th of October, 1993. His

favorite color is white because he says white is clean and pure. He was born inTennessee and he spoke with a wicked Southern accent. He has a husky called Saffy

and hes an only child. One day, he really wants to go back to Nashville and live there

again. He wants a massive farm with horses, paddocks, the whole shebang. He lovesWestlife and Escape The Fate, but he listens to a ton of different music. He loves

reading and his favorite author is J.K. Rowling, therefore his favorite books are all theHarry Potter ones. When we were little, we went to Disneyland and we got lost. Cale

held my hand the whole time until we found our parents again. We would have beenabout eight or nine at the time. He plays the guitar and he loves James Bond and old


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Disney movies. He fell out of a tree when he was twelve and broke his right arm. He

was thrilled cause he couldnt write anything at school for ages. What about Seth?Oh yeah, and Cales surname is Vreeland and his middle name is Thomas Alice said,

smiling happily at long last.

Stacy gazed at her in shock. Alice could really talk when she wanted to!

Stacy cleared her thoughts and started to talk.Seths best friend is my brother and weve known each other since I was ten and hewas twelve. His middle name is Aiden and his last name is Bolton. His favorite color

is orange and he was born in South Carolina. He never wants to go back there, he

loves Jacksonville too much. All his immediate family is there though, but hesalways been rebellious and one of his cousins is in Florida so hes stayed with him

since he was twelve, which was when he and my older brother became such goodfriends. He owns a Lamborghini and it is his pride and joy. He always listens to Jesse

McCartney and Justin Timberlake. I suppose you would call him a prep. He doesnt

read a lot but he likes books by Stephen King. He prefers horror movies and comediesto anything else and he cant stand reality T.V. of any kind at all. Hes never been to

any American theme parks but hes been to Australia and he likes it there. Hes adrummer and he often goes out and plays in his friends garage with the rest of the

guys in the band. And I have a question to ask you Stacy trailed off vaguely.

Alice nodded.Sure, go ahead she said, feeling loose for the first time in what seemed like forever.

You said that Cale spoke with a Southern accent. What is that supposed to mean?Stacy asked, keeping her eyes on Alices face.

The reaction was immediate. A wall went up in Alices eyes and her open smile shut

down. Her brain prepared her with smart comebacks for the fierce onslaught ofquestions that was sure to come.

Stacy waited patiently and silently while Alice inhaled a deep breath.When we were 16, Cale went through a physically traumatic experience and ever

since then hes been mute. I havent heard his voice for nearly three whole years she

said, becoming distressed.Stacy leapt out of bed and crossed the room to Alices to hug her. Alice held tight, her

tears sliding down her cheeks and soaking Stacys shoulder.You really love him, dont you? Stacy said gently.

Alice nodded her head fast, still crying.

Aww Stacy hummed.You can go to sleep, Stacy Alice muttered, burrowing beneath the covers and hiding

her face.

OK Stacy said quietly, getting up and climbing back into her own bed.That night Alice cried herself to sleep.

9

Stacy grew popular very quickly and for only the second time in her life, Alice gotnoticed. She put on a smile but a piece of her heart was missing. Approximately half

of it was back in New Hampshire, back with her beautiful silent boyfriend. She was

considering canceling her classes, dropping out and going home.


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Three months had already flown past. Of course Alice had talked to her parents and

sister, and even Cales parents, but Cale couldnt speak, so she never spoke to him onthe phone.

Another month went and Alice had made her decision. One Monday afternoon, after

all her classes for the day, she picked up her cell phone and called Cales house.

Emily answered on the second ring, sounding happy.Hi Alice! How is everything on your end? she asked.Fine, thanks Emily. Could you tell Cale something for me, please? Alice replied.

There was a pause.

Cale can- Emily began.Alice cut her off.

Please, Emily she begged.Sure. Fire away Emily said slowly.

I need you to tell him that this isnt working. We thought the whole distance thing

would be OK, but its not. There is a black hole in my heart and Im falling apart withthis whole thing. I need him to know that I love him dearly, but its not working.

Thank you, Emily Alice finished, her voice quivering and small tears forming in thecorners of her eyes.

After she hung up, Alice collapsed on her bed and threw her phone across the room.

She dove under the covers in her clothes and yanked the duvet over her head. Sheshook and cried when she felt her heart splinter and break, the heat of death settling

swiftly in her. It ran as thick as blood in her veins, as black as tar. Cales name camewhispered out of the darkness, an ethereal presence in her mind.

Stacy came in two hours later to find Alice passed out in bed, fully clothed. She

spotted the cell phone on the floor, picked it up and searched through Alices contacts.Upon finding Cale Home, she pressed call and let the phone ring.

A lazy male voice answered the call.Hello?

This is Stacy, Alices roommate. Im sorry if its too late or too early where you are,

but Im worried about Alice Stacy told whoever she was speaking to.Whats wrong with her? the other voice demanded urgently.

Shes unconscious in her bed. I can see that shes breathing but other than that shesnot moving Stacy said, beginning to get frightened.

OK, thank you.

Stacy stared, stunned, at the phone having realized that who shed been talking to hadjust hung up on her.


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Late the following night, Stacy looked up from her Economics text when a knock

pounded the dormitory door. She glanced at Alice, half awake in her bed, and jumpedup to get the door. She gaped at the boy standing on the other side of the threshold;

the boy out of Alices photos. Cale.

He had big green eyes and shaggy black hair and a worried expression. His blue T

shirt was drenched with rain and he was bouncing impatiently on the balls of his feet.He peered round Stacy, trying to see past her into the dorm.Is Alice inside? he asked frantically, his eyes wild.

Stacy was shocked.

You cant speak she said dumbly.Cale shook his head more impatiently and shoved past Stacy, catching sight of Alice

lying prone in a small bed on one side of the room.She lifted her head slowly, thinking instantly that she was hallucinating. Cale couldnt

be here; he was at home in New Hampshire.

Cale reached underneath Alice and swung her into his arms before settling back onthe bed with her cradled in his lap. He propped her head up on his shoulder.

Hey, sugar. How yall doin up in this fancy college? Much fancier than anythin wegot back home, darlin, aint it? Cale said, his voice light and airy.

Alice stared up at him, confused.

Cale smiled down at her.Im real, honey. Look at me; Im real; Im here he said, urging her to believe him.

Alice briefly shook her head.Not my Cale. My Cale cant talk she mumbled.

Cale sighed heavily.

Turns out I couldnt handle you going either. Not exactly a traumatic experience, butit got me talking again. I tried so hard for you, to talk again. And you know what,

Alice? Calling my mother like that yesterday put her in a spin. She was trying to tellyou that I could speak, but you wouldnt listen and just went on to tell her to tell me

we were finished; over. It broke my heart, you know. I missed you too much, but I

never wouldve gone to such lengths as you. This has sure put you into a major funk,hasnt it? Youre more messed up than Ive ever seen you. Remember that? That

hasnt happened to you for three years, Alice. Keep it that way, honey. Remember me.I am notan apparition or a figment of your wildly overactive imagination, girl! Would

you wake up and listen to me, please? Alice Isabelle Nichols, you come back to me

right now! he growled.He glanced up at Stacy and gestured for her to shut the door; she was still staring at

him numbly. She obeyed and sat on the edge of her bed, watching attentively.

Alice, sweetheart, Im gonna take you home if youd just wake up! Cale said,frustrated and concerned.

Alice blinked up at him and cracked a tiny smile.Whyd you stop talking? Ive waited three years to hear you talk, so you go and rant

at me for ages and then you just stop? Whats wrong with you, boy? she asked.Cale stared at her and then laughed.

Theres my girl he whispered to her, nuzzling her cheek.

Are you really here to take me home? Alice asked him, hope lighting her eyes.Cale nodded.

I sure am, honey. Pack your things and well be gone; outta here tonight he replied,grinning at her plain eagerness.

Alice suddenly shoved herself at him, reaching up for his mouth. She kissed him hard,putting all her pent up emotion and stress into it. Finally pulling away, she climbed


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off of his lap and moved around, gathering her stuff and pulling pictures off the wall

by her bed.When she was done, Alice turned to Stacy and flung her arms around her neck.

Keep in touch she said, smiling at her newfound friend.

Will do! Stacy replied, smiling also.

So Cale and Alice left.

Several hours later, they stepped off a plane to be greeted by four beaming adults and

one screaming six year old girl. Laughing, Alice bent and scooped Cassi into her arms

and cuddled her tightly. Annabelle and Jared enveloped both their daughters in a hugebear hug. Emily and William waited for their turn before stepping forward to hug

Alice.Emily, Im sorry- Alice started.

Hun, dont worry about it, its OK. I know you were upset. Cale found you, and

thats what counts Emily said, gripping Alices hand for a second or two.Alice nodded and smiled at her.

Cale took her hand and they ran off to collect her duffel bag and two suitcases.Cale illegally held Alice on his lap for the drive home.

Are you OK now? he whispered in her ear.

Yes Alice replied. Im fine.Cale pecked her cheek and stroked her hair.

I love you he murmured.Love you, too Alice said, snuggling further into Cales chest.

Alice was in the process of unpacking and sorting her bedroom when Cassi ran in

with a big happy grin on her face.Hey, Cass, whats up? Alice asked, smiling at her sister.


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Follow, me, please! Cassi said, tugging on Alices hands.

Alice went with her, through the woods to Cales house. Cassi pulled her up the stairsand straight inside Cales bedroom. Cassidy backed out quickly, leaving Alice to

stand there, shocked, seeing Cale down on one knee on his bedroom floor. Her heart

leapt into her throat and she stared hard at him.

Cale smiled shyly at her and drew a black velvet box from his pocket. He opened itand held it up towards her, just out of her reach.Alice, I love you. Will you marry me and be mine? Cale asked, nervous and

hopeful.

Ive always been yours Alice told him.Stop being so pedantic! Cale complained.

Yes!! Alice exclaimed, dropping down to the floor and throwing her arms aroundCales neck.

He wound his arms around her back and hugged her tightly to him.

lissie_the boy next door

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