Story: In My Heart and In My Mind (all chapters)

Authors: Shinigami_Shimai

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Chapter 1

In My Heart and In My Mind
Written by Kathryn K Williams.

All ideas, characters and the like are copyright of Kathryn K Williams 2006. Please do not copy this story or any others under her name or anyone else.

Part One

Chapter one

The alarm clock came to life in the early morning hours of the day, screaming its call for its owner to stop dreaming and enter reality once again. A long slender hand emerged from a cocoon of blankets and gave the alarm a quick smack to shut the infernal machine up. With a moan the arm returned to its cave and pulled the blankets closed in an attempt to block out the intruding day. Within moments the alarm sprung to life yet again to be quickly silenced, this time by the heel of a foot. Struck from its place on the night table the alarm hung mere inches from the floor, saved from a dreadful fall by its cord. The arm snaked out from its hiding place to retrieve the alarm and pull it atop of the bed. A single green eye stared out from the blankets at the clock’s display with its numbers reading, “7:16" in bright red lights.

With a tired moan the blankets unravelled to reveal a teenaged girl clad in baggy pink flannel pyjamas. She sprawled out on the bed, knocking the blankets partly to the ground, and stared up at the ceiling. The clock held lightly in the palm of her hand as she contemplated if smashing it on the ceiling would silence the day forever when there was a knock at the door.

“Samantha, are you awake?” The voice of her mother called out from behind the door.

“Yeah, I’m up.” Samantha called out irately from her spot on the bed, not making any move to actually get up.

The door slowly opened and a middle-aged woman with long sleek straight blonde hair and a haggard look upon her thin narrow face entered the room, “Look at you!” Samantha’s mother stated disappointedly, “You are not even dressed and you have school in less then an hour.”

Samantha groaned as she rolled out of bed, “I’m going.” She said listlessly as she got to her feet and stretched.

“I want to see you downstairs in ten minutes.” Her mother ordered, “Why can’t you be more like your sister?” She probed coldly, “She is already dressed and eating breakfast. You are turning sixteen tomorrow so why don’t you try acting more like an adult.” Her mother left without waiting for an answer and closed the door behind her.

“I’m not sixteen yet.” Samantha muttered under her breath. She never understood why her mother bothered to compare her with her ten-year-old sister. The girl was in elementary school still while Samantha had just begun her first year of high school. She wished she could be back in elementary school like her sis. She missed recess and the long lunch breaks with her friends. She had found that since going to junior high school things have changed, a lot. Most of her friends drifted away over the years leaving her with only a few close friends. Now that they were in high school she suspected that even those few remaining would drift further away as they found new lives for themselves.

They were almost adults now after all, a fact that she was reminded of every day by her mother since she turned thirteen. She was beginning to hate the prospect of becoming an adult and detested it ever so much more every time she heard her mother remind her of her age. She glanced around her room and frowned. Her mother had demanded her to put her toys away before her sixteenth birthday, however Samantha refused to do so. Stuffed animals from her childhood adorned every piece of white furniture that filled her room. They peeked out from behind the table lamp that sat upon her night table, they lined up along the dresser as if in some strange parade. Several shelves that her father had nailed to the wall above her bed were overflowing with the critter; a couple would fall upon her while she slept to join the others that already took up half the bed. She did not want to pack up all her memories and knew that when she got home from school there would be an argument over them just like everything else, but could not give a dame about it. There would be arguments no matter what she did or didn’t do so she figured she couldn’t win no matter how hard she tried and decided to forgo the toys for now and headed for the washroom.

In the brightly light washroom, with it mirrored walls and lines of lights above the sink; Sam got a good look at herself and let out a deep sigh. Her short thin wavy blonde hair hung loosely around slightly chubby, freckle-speckled face giving her the appearance of an twelve year old and not someone about to turn sixteen. She was small and frail, a twig in comparison to other girls, which only made her cheeks stand out all the more. Her eyes were the only remarkable feature she had, or at least that was what she had heard all her life and they were the only physical trait about herself that she did not detest. They were large in comparison to her face and held gleaming emerald irises that’s colours seemed to shift in the light. She loved staring into her own eyes just to watch the way the light reflected off of them. Often wondering what she will look like in the years to come. She wished that the rest of her body would be as elegant as her eyes were, but realized that was a silly thing to wish for.

She grabbed a comb and run it under water before brushing her bangs out of her eyes. They were getting long and she figured that she would need a haircut soon. She parted her hair over her left eyes then quickly grabbed a few of metal hair clips that lay around the sink to hold her bangs to one side, Green, blue and one with a yellow butterfly upon the end. She hated the way her hair would curl around her ears and tickle the backs of her ear lobes so added two more hair clips behind her ears to hold them in place as well. Finally satisfied she hastily brushed her teeth and returned to her room to find some clothes. She pulled a pair of torn jeans and a blue t-shirt out of the dresser and tossed them onto her bed, then added a red hooded sweater from her closet before stripping off her pyjamas. It took her much longer than ten minutes to get prepared and she tried hard to ignore the cross look upon her mother’s face as she entered the kitchen and took a bowl down from the cupboard.

“Could you move any slower?” Her mother scolded, “You will be late for school.”

Samantha glanced up at the clock to see it was now fifteen minutes to eight, “I can bike there in ten minutes, no problem.” Quickly she placed the bowl back in the cupboard, then grabbed a granola bar and headed for the front door to find her sneakers, a pair of white runners that had turned a light brown from all the mud they had gathers from her adventures through the many trails behind their house. She could feel her mother looming over her as she stepped into her shoes and began to tie the slightly mud encrusted laces.

“I am beginning to wonder if we should allow you to turn sixteen.” Her mother suddenly stated surly with a shake of her head at the state of the girl’s shoes.

Samantha’s mind froze at those words. Her mother had threatened to hold off her birthday before, back before her thirteenth birthday. She had fallen off her bike and scrapped both her knee and elbow so badly that blood flowed over her the new white dress her mother had bought her the other day. She tried hard to hold back the tears but the moment her eyes set upon the blood as it pool up on her knee the tears began to flow. Unfortunately for Samantha her mother had been talking to one of the neighbours out front of their house and witnessed the accident, seeing her daughter crying in front of the neighbours infuriated her more then anything in the world. She grabbed Sam by the arm and hauled her back into the house; only when they were out of earshot did the yelling start. First it was about how Sam was always destroying the beautiful clothes that she bought and then it was about how she was always crying over nothing. Sam could have had a broken arm or leg and it would still be nothing in her mother’s eyes. Her mother’s voice kept rising as she poured alcohol over the girl’s wounds, only causing the tears to flow steadier. Finally her mother became so fed up with Sam’s tears that she told the girl that if she did not stop she would not turn thirteen. Samantha knew deep in her mind that there was no way that someone could stop someone’s birthday from happening, however she feared that if her mother set her mind to it she could stop anything from occurring.

Samantha struggled to control the anger that was boiling up inside of her as she stood up to face her mother. The woman was standing in the middle of the hall in her stark white nurse’s uniform and a stern look upon her face. Samantha knew better then to argue with her mother but this was her birthday and she could not just give in on this, “But mother you can’t!!” She exclaimed as panic filled her mind. Her mother had a way of ruining her day and she always did it at a point when Samantha needed to be somewhere, “You promised my friends could come over tomorrow and everything.”

“Well you should have thought about that and tried harder to act like a lady.” Her mother scolded, “I swear, I honestly thought that by the time you got to High School you would begin to show some level of responsibility and here I see you room is still filled with toys.” She chided her daughter, “I have yet to see you even attempt to try acting a little more like a young lady and less like a child. Look at you, you are a disgrace.” She gestured to Samantha’s attire, “Why can’t you get a hair cut without my suggesting it?”

Samantha rolled her eyes. She had heard this lecture many times. Over the summer holidays Samantha was bombarded by her mothers accusation and insults. From how much of a disgrace it was to be seen with Sam in torn jeans or the way she always wore T-shirts that were so big on her that the collar would fall off her shoulder exposing too much skin, as well as her lack of manners or attention to her own looks. It was not her fault that shirts never fit and she was not going to wear some of the dresses her mother tried to buy on more then one occasion. Samantha had grown out of the frilly dress stage when she was only nine years old and by the time she was thirteen she stopped wearing dresses entirely. She wore the occasional skirt, but that was only on hot days and she would prefer to wear shorts even then.

“Mother, I don’t have time for this.” Samantha remarked coldly. If she didn’t hurry she really would be late for class and she did not want that. School was one of the few things in this world that Samantha actually enjoyed. It was her escape from the nightmares that was her home and at that very moment she longed to be freed from this dispute and be on her way.

“That is exactly my point.” Her mother stated, “You never listen to me. You are always thinking of yourself. Why can’t you try to act like me for once.”

“Because I want to actually graduate from High School, mother.” Samantha snapped she quickly regretted her words as her mother’s hand struck her across the face with enough force to nearly knock the girl off her feet. Samantha was used to that kind of response from her mother so had time to brace herself for the blow, but if she had not caught the wall with her hand she would have been knocked to the floor.

“I dropped out because of you.” Her mother angrily reminded her, something Samantha had been reminded of from the moment she entered school. Her mother was forced to leave school at seventeen because she was pregnant with Sam; “If you weren’t around then I could have graduated and not ended up in these dead end jobs all the time. Do you have any idea what it is like having to be a porter at a hospital, do you?”

Samantha rubbed her cheek as she righted herself and nodded, “Yes.” She said quietly, she knew all too well what her mother went through at work because every time her mother got a new job she made a point of taking Sam to work with her so her daughter would get a better idea of what she suffered through for her, “I’m sorry.” She knew that bringing up her mother’s schooling was a bad idea, but for some reason when her mother got on her case she always felt a need to dig right back and every time she received a smack for stepping out of line. Not wanting to continue with this fight Samantha grabbed her backpack, turned on her heels and headed for the door, “I... I have to go.” She stated then rushed out of the house before her mother could protest.

Around the side of the small, two floor, duplex that they called a home she found her mountain bike leaning against the fence. She rarely locked the bike up at home even though she was well aware of how much the bike cost. Her mother gave it to her for passing Junior High and it was a constant reminder that she needed to graduate from High School or she would forever be under that woman’s wing. Not wanting to deal with her mother any longer she grabbed the bike by the handles and ran down the street with it, one foot on a pedal while the other kicked at the ground.

After drifting a block or so away from home she came to a stop and pulled off her backpack. Inside a small pouch on the side she took out a small yellow plastic walkman, press the large black play button, then placed the headphones over her head before dropping the walkman back into its pouch and slinging the pack onto her back. The familiar sound of Roxette poured out of the headphones as she leapt onto the pedals and tore down the sidewalk on her way to school. She tapped a hand on the hand break to the beat, enjoying the rhythm as Joy Ride blared through her ears. The tape was a mix of 80's tunes that her best friend, Tristan, had mixed for her over the summer holidays and she loved speeding along on her bike to the sound of soft rock filling her mind, her troubles at home nearly forgotten as the next song began to play.

She quickly found herself lost in the sensation of the music upon her ears and the feeling of the mountain bike’s thick tires tearing up the ground beneath her. She had to admit that it was a nice bike, she had only driven a dirt bike before summer and the height of a mountain bike was not easy to get used to, but after adjusting the breaks a little and fiddling with the gears she found the ride was smooth and graceful. She did not even feel the bumps as she moved off the sidewalk to take a shortcut through a small forest behind the school. She stood up on the pedals and leaned over the handle bars as she turned another corner and started on a downhill drop that would have scared her a few years ago but now she knew the path by heart and could fell her heart pounding hard as the wheels of the bike skid along an embankment at top speed and everything became a blur. Trees took on the quality of a watercolour painting that had been left out in the rain as she sped along the dirt path. She kept her eyes on the ground, concentrating hard on the terrain in front of her. Lightly hopping over the root of a tree and ducking in time to miss a fallen branch of a tree. The thrill of the near miss accelerated her and she felt a rush of excitement as she rounded yet another bend.

((STOP!!!)) A voice suddenly cried out inside of Samantha’s head.

Before she knew what she was doing her hand quickly squeezed the brakes as tight as she could and she began to skid along the path. The front wheel bit into the dirt bringing the bike to a quick halt, however the back wheel refused to stop and began to leave the ground. The world moved in slow motion as Samantha realized that her bike was about to flip end over end. For a brief moment the entire world came to a standstill as the bike stood on its front wheel and Samantha found herself staring straight down at the dirt path before her. That was when she noticed it, sitting mere centimetres away from her front tire was a large toad, it appeared to be staring up at her. She abruptly realized that if she did not do something double-quick she would land on the poor creature. Without a second thought Samantha wrenched hard on the handlebars causing the rear of the bike to turn in mid air. The world abruptly returned to normal speed as the bike came crashing down on its side, throwing its owner off.

Samantha toppled to the ground and lay on the path blinking at the canopy of trees overhead. Her heart pounded against her rib cage with such force that Samantha thought it would break out if it did not slow. Her eyes darted around as she tried to piece together the events that landed her on her back in the middle of the woods. ‘What the hell was that?’ She thought to herself as she tried to catch her breath. Slowly she rolled her head to the side to see the toad sitting right before her, staring at her with those big black eyes.

“D... did you call out to me?” She inquired, not really sure if she wanted an answer or not. Hearing voices in the forest was not something new to Samantha, but this was the first time she heard something shout at her. Over her life she always had this feeling before she stepped on any critter, be it furry or otherwise. She never understood what would stop her from hurting a creature, not like she wanted to, but this was a little too freaky for her. She let out a laugh then got to her feet and glanced down at the toad, which was still staring up at her, “What’s wrong, hmmm?” She knelt beside the toad and looked into its eyes, “You know you don’t belong on the path like this. You’ll get hurt if you stay here.” She proceeded to gently pick up the toad and held it up to her face, “You really didn’t call out to me did you?”

The toad licked its eye in response.  

Glancing around she spotted a small pond off the side of the path and set the toad next to the water’s edge, “Now you stay off the path alright.” The toad leapt from the girl’s hands into the water and swam away, “Take care little guy.” She called out after the toad then turned to check on her bike. For the first time she noticed that her Walkman had fallen out of the backpack and her headphones were no longer on her head. Curiously she scooped up the device and turned it over in her hands. It did not seem broken and when she pressed the play button the sound of “Tears for Fears” blazed forth from the headphones. With a shrug she placed the phones back on her head and picked up her bike, with the Walkman in hand. The bike did not seem damaged so she jumped back on and speed off to school, hoping that she would not be too late.

Before long she broke out of the trees to find herself on the school’s back lot, where the gym classes were usually held on good days. The sight of many kids still trickling towards the school gave Samantha a good feeling. She hated being late more than anything else in the world, because it meant one more thing for her mother to argue about. She pushed hard on the pedals and sailed across the field on her way towards the bike racks. As she glided her bike into an empty spot at the bike rack she heard someone called out to her over the music.

“Hey Sam!!” A smiling girl with long wavy blonde hair and similar taste in clothing called out from the shadow of a tree. “I was beginning to wonder if you were going to make it on time.” She said as she approached her friend.

“Hey Trish!” Samantha returned the greeting as she pulled the headphones around her neck, then took a U-lock off the bike and wrapped it around the back tire and the frame of the bike before latching it to the bike rack, “I almost didn’t.” Samantha admitted bleakly, glancing at the girl occasionally.

Tristan’s smile faded the moment she say the red mark on the girl’s face and the dirt stains on the side of her jeans, “You alright?” She inquired anxiously, “Were you in an accident?”

“Yeah.” Samantha gave her friend a half smile, “Just crashed in the woods.” She explained simply.

Tristan gave the girl a sceptical look, but did not push the matter, “Thought you were the goddess of those trails.” She remarked confidently, “I don’t think you have crashed since we were in grade three.”

Samantha rubbed the back of her head in embarrassment, “That is not true. Anyway, this new bike is a monster to handle, it glides nicely, but breaking is a pain. I will tame it before the year ends I’m sure of that.” She patted the black sit of the bike proudly before starting towards the school, “Something really weird just happened to me in the woods.” She stated, thinking over the incident with the toad and consider how she would explain thing to Trish.

Trish was the only person Sam truly trusted and even let the girl in on her little secret. The girl had been at her side longer then she could recall and she was like a sister to Sam, in fact most mistaken them for siblings until they took a closer look at the girls. The fact that they tended to share the same taste in fashion did not help matter much either. As far as Sam could tell the only difference between the two of them were their eyes. While Sam’s were vibrant green and large, too large in Sam’s opinion, Trish had smaller brown eyes that usually avoided intruding gazes with a glance to the floor. Sam was the only one lucky enough to peer within those eyes to stare upon the amber flecks the resided along the edges of Trish’s eyes, making them appear to burn with a pain that Trish refused to allow out. 

 “Hmm?” Tristan grabbed her bag from its spot against the tree as they passed it, “You see a ghost in there or something?” She nervously glanced towards the forest as she swung the pack over her left shoulder and shuddered at the idea.

“Noooo...” Samantha said sarcastically, she could never understand why her friend had such a fear of ghosts or why she refused to enter any forested area for that matter. It was as if the girl thought some kind of ghoulish creature might leap out at her or something. “Nothing like that. It was just a toad.” Sam assured the girl, still milling over the event, “It kept staring at me. It felt weird.”

Tristan eyed her friend, “Annnd?” She probed knowingly, her eyes wide with wonder. When they were young and the sun descended in the distance as they walked the twisting paths that made up the neighbourhood Trish would cling tightly to Sam’s arm, pointing at every approaching shadow to be certain no ghost lingered within their depths. Even with her intense fear she wanted to know if Sam saw anything at all, almost as if she teetered between fear and wonderment.

“And nothing.” Samantha stated with a shrug, chuckling at the disappointed sigh that emitted from her friend’s lips. “I nearly ran over the thing and crashed when I tried to avoid it is all.”

“Somehow I don’t believe that was all.” Tristan remarked knowingly, they had known each other since they were in kindergarten and Tristan knew that anything involving animals and Samantha was never just nothing. She still remembered how her friend had calmed an angry tomcat that had a broken leg. While everyone else ended up scratched by the cat Samantha simply knelt out of reach of the creature and stared at it. Within moment the cat was purring and curled up in Samantha’s lap, “Come on, this is me you are talking to.” She begged, “Tell me what really happened.”

“Alright.” Samantha took a deep breath and glanced around to make sure no one else was listening to her, “I was riding my bike through the woods, listening to that mix tape you gave me, when I heard someone yell out, ‘Stop’, out of nowhere. I slammed on my breaks and nearly flew over the handlebars when I noticed this toad right in front of my front wheel. It was like the world stopped and the two of us were staring at each other. I somehow got this feeling the toad was the one that called out to me.”

“A toad?” Tristan gave her friend a peculiar look, “Did you hit it?”

“No.” Samantha said gratefully and continued on with her story, “I missed the toad but crashed the bike. Strange thing is the toad just kept staring at me the whole time.”

“You sure it was the toad that called out to you?” Tristan inquired as they found their lockers and began to fiddle with the combination lock.

“Yeah, I got this feeling that it was.” Samantha opened her locker and pulled out a textbook and shoved it into her backpack.

“Did you try to talk to it?”

Samantha flushed in embarrassment, “Yeah... but it didn’t say another word. It was like it wanted to say more but I couldn’t hear it. I’m just being stupid I guess.”

Tristan grabbed a few of her books, “It could have been someone else, couldn’t it?” She inquired in search of any other answer to the mystery.

Samantha shrugged, “It felt like it came from inside of my head. It’s just too weird.” She stated with a shudder.

Tristan patted her friend on the shoulder, “I always knew you were weird so don’t worry about it.” She reassured her friend.

Samantha gave the girl a smirk, “Gee, Thanks.”

Suddenly the bell rang and kids began to rush to their classes, “I’ll talk to you at lunch alright?”

“Sure.” Samantha waved to her friend, who returned the wave, then headed off to her class.


*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 2

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Two

School ran relatively smoothly and Samantha could not have been happier. Her morning classes consisted of Math 10 and Geography 10, rather simple classes for Samantha; it was Social Studies and English classes that she dreaded the most of all. Seeing as it was the first month of the semester most of Samantha’s teachers had been rather generous with their workload so the classes moved along quickly and painlessly, just the way Sam liked it. She suspected that by mid October things would really pick up and she just hoped that the teachers did not spring some surprise pop quiz because she detested them the most.

She preferred to be prepared for everything and when someone interrupted her flow it really derailed her flux, but so far there had been no surprises and life at Wellington High was moving along as smoothly as it could for a first year student. Before she knew it the bell signally third period lunch was ringing and the students headed off to lunch. Sam found herself fighting to get to the cafeteria as half the school spilled out into the halls with the same intend to feed their hunger as Samantha. However she was not surprised to find Tristan standing near the front of the line by the time she got there. The girl lucked out in having a class right next to the lunch room for second period class and Samantha partly despised her for this, only slightly, not enough to break up their friendship.

“Hey Trish, you really are a luck devil, have I told you that?” She inquired, slightly jealous of her friend.

Tristan gave the girl a broad grin; “I told you you should have taken an art class with me the first year.” Tristan remarked, crossing her hand in front of her chest and giving a stern nod.

“Maybe next year.” Samantha remarked, shaking her head at her friends attempt at seriousness, “Could you get me a burger while I hold our table?” She asked as she retrieved a ten-dollar bill from her pocket.

“Sure thing.” Tristan took the bill and glanced at the buffet that was quickly approaching, “You want some pudding too?” She inquired pointing a selection of plastic container filled with black and brown fluid that slightly resembled something pudding like.

“Ummm...” Samantha thought for a second and asked her stomach if it was courageous enough to test the substance and it grumbled in agreement, “Sure, Butterscotch and make sure there is lots of ketchup on my burger, please.” She reminded her friend.

“As always, girl.” Tristan agreed with a grin, “Have I failed you yet?”

Samantha thought about this before answering, “Well... there was that one time you put relish on my burger.” She wrinkled up her nose at the thought of the green matter that her friend was known to cover her burger and hot dogs in.

Tristan’s face grew long, “That was when we were like thirteen. You’re never going to let me live that one up, are you?” She moaned in despair.

Samantha gave the girl an evil grin, “Maybe when you’re twenty.” She stated with a laugh, “Then I’ll think about it.”

Tristan playfully swiped at her friend, but a metal rail, installed to keep the kids in line, kept her from her prey, “I’ll get you later.” She jokingly hissed.

“Later then.” Samantha waved to her friend before pushing her way through the crowds and out onto the patio outback of the school. She quickly spotted the picnic table that the two of them had claimed the first day of school. It was set at the far end of the patio under a large tree where there was a lot of shade. She started towards the table when she noticed two girls where already seated at the table and Samantha frowned at the sight.

“What do you two think you are up too?” She angrily inquired as she stormed over to the table.

One of the girls was seated with her back against the table and her legs crossed. Her triangular face light up the moment her eyes set upon Sam, “Samantha!!” The girl exclaimed cheerfully as she jumped to her feet and wrapped her arms around the girl’s neck.

“Hey Lisa.” Samantha returned the hug. Lisa was a small ball of energy that always seemed to be bouncing around and was never going to stop. She was a spunky girl who always wore her short brunette hair in small pig tails to either side of her head that would bounce along beside the girl like a pair of surreal little cheerleaders cheering her on and she also wore a lot of pink. Like today’s ensemble, which comprised of a bright pink skirt, matching pink turtleneck that came up to the girl’s chin and pink runners. Samantha glanced down at the girl’s bare legs and wondered how she managed to go around without something covering her legs in such crisp weather, but learned years ago not to question Lisa about her cloths or anything else for that manner.

Lisa suddenly held up a strange looking little pink stuffed toy before Samantha’s eyes, “Look what I found at the mall yesterday!!” She squealed while waving the thing in front of her friend.

Samantha needed to step back to get a good look at what was bouncing around in front of her nose. It appeared to be a small plush creature of some sorts, but she was not quite sure. It was a little bigger then Lisa’s hand and had a big floppy oval head that was twice the size of its squarish body. There were four tiny round lumps coming off each side, which Samantha presumed were its arms, if you could consider them arms. The toy’s strangest feature had to be its eyes, they were so large that they nearly covered its entire head and made the creature looking like it was permanently petrified with shock. Samantha could not blame it seeing the way Lisa shook the poor thing around. She figure if the creature was alive it would probably have had a heart attack by now, “Uhhhh...What is it?” Samantha regretfully asked, giving the thing a curious look.

“Oh no...” Said a small dismal voice from behind Lisa. “You had to ask.” She stated with sign of dread in her tone.

Samantha looked around Lisa to see a girl sitting at the table; she had short sleek black and pink hair and was gelled so it curled outwards at the back of her head. This was Beth and she was the newest member to their little group and the darkest. She wore an odd black dress covered with lace around the fringe and a black lace pull over that covered her rather pale arms. Her legs were covered in spider’s web stocking that were torn in all the right places and a pair of think purple-rimmed glasses we perched upon her tiny nose. She also had several earrings in along each ear and even on in her nose, which made Sam cringe at times.

Beth had her nose deep in a book, which Samantha immediately knew was Stephen King without reading the title. Not because of the girl’s attire or persona, far from it, it was just a feeling Sam got from certain books.  She did not understand how she always knew what it was that Beth was reading. It was as if she got an image in her head from the book and this new one was giving off rather haunting images indeed so she simply figured it must be Steven King for he was the only writer that made her feel so ill at ease,

“Hey Beth, What ya’ reading?” She inquired, trying to strike up a conversation with the girl. The truth was she did not know much about Beth and was always interested to learn more about the new girl. Beth had just showed up at their table one day a week into the school year and asked to join them. At first they were all too afraid to refuse Beth from joining, but after some time they realized she was an ordinary girl with many of the same interests as themselves, just a different way of expressing herself. It still struck Samantha as odd that this Goth girl would want to hang out with them, but for now she was just glad to have another addition to their circle of friends.

Elizabeth slowly turned her head away from her book and gaze up at Samantha, “‘IT.’” She stated then held up the book to Sam so she could see the cover. It was worn, cracked and black with only two blood red letters on the cover read ‘IT’ and she noticed right away that it was defiantly by Steven King. Under the title was a picture of a sewer grate with a set of long green clawed fingers snaking between the bars. Samantha was almost certain she could see the creature on the cover moving within its murky cave.

“Is it interesting?” Sam inquired, not really sure she wanted to know what it was about, but found she could not tear her eyes off those glowing red eyes staring back at her from beneath the sewers.

Beth simply shrugged, “It’s alright.” She remarked as she returned to her page and started reading again.

Samantha noted that the girl was well into the later half of the rather large book so she figured it was more then just ‘alright’, but considered not saying anything and allow the girl to finish her book in peace.

“It’s dark and rather creepy.” Beth continued, startling Sam slightly, “King really loves to feed on children’s fears. Makes me wonder what his childhood was like.”

“Probably someone with a lot of issues with the dark.” Samantha noted as she rounded the table. Her eyes finally breaking free of the book to return to Lisa’s new toy,

“So I take it Lisa has already subjected you to her new toy?” She inquired trying to change the subject from the book.

Beth’s eyes drifted from the book to the toy and back up to Sam. There was an unmistakable twitch in the girl’s eye that only appeared when Lisa was around, “You could say that.” She stated simply then turned back to her book.

“Come on! It’s great!” Lisa exclaimed then gestured to the toy, “They’re called Meephit and they are so cool.”

“Sounds like me think of Mephitis or Mephistophelean to me.” Beth stated in a low mutter.

“Mephisto what?” Sam blinked down at the girl in bewilderment, “Doesn’t he have something to do with dreams?” She inquired curiously.

“Morpheus is the lord of dream.” Beth corrected her friend, “Mephistophelean means something that is like the devil or fiendish.”

Lisa hugged her toy, “Blinky is not a devil.” She protested, “He is friendly, he can even tell you your horoscope and everything. Here I’ll show you.” She proceeded to open up the stuffed creature via a long slit under the creature’s neck.

Samantha watched in slight repulsion as Lisa produced a small, thin, pink coloured device from within the creature’s chest. A devise that reminded Samantha a lot of the small calculators that they used to use in grade three. Lisa dropped the stuffed toy to the table like some kind of discarded skin. The sight of the stuffie staring up at her with its insides removed made Samantha shudder. The more she tried to tear her eyes from the sight the harder she found it to be.

Beth suddenly reached out and flipped the stuffed animal over so it was face down, when Samantha glanced up at the girl there was a knowing smile upon her face then her eyes drifted back to her book. Samantha sometimes wondering about Beth, there seems to be some kind of secret connection between Samantha and the girl that even Sam could not quit understand. She always seemed to know what was on Sam’s mind and would make silent gestures when Samantha was distress, just like she had just done that moment with the stuffed creature. Sam was actually amazed she did not see the girl standing outside of the woods earlier that morning after her incident with the toad. She was not sure if she would have been happy to see Beth at that moment or terrified that she would be there. Samantha was shattered from her musings by Lisa shoving the device in her face. She did not realize that the girl had been talking the entire time and she was now trying to show Sam something on a tiny screen upon the surface of the devise.

“Huh?” Samantha rubbed her head, “Sorry, I guess I spaced out for a moment there.” She explained sheepishly.

Lisa gave her friend a concerned look, “You alright?” She inquired with worry painted across her usually cheerful face, “You have been spacey more then usually lately.” She remarked with a concerned tone.

“I’ll be fine.” Samantha stated then took the device from Lisa’s hands to get a better look at it, “What is it you were trying to show m-“ The moment both of her hands touched the object she felt a spark of energy race through her fingertips. From the corner of her eyes she noticed Beth’s eyes break from her book and watch her with heightened interest. Sam glanced back at the device curiously, it had a tiny screen contained two lines of words and there were several small dark pink buttons under it. Most of the buttons Samantha recognized as numbers and letters and a few of the zodiac symbols, but there were a few other symbols along the side that she did not recall ever seeing before. The small screen was flicker and flash as letters scrolled across its surface. “‘A good friend will be joining you very soon.’” She read as the words passed by.

“Sorry I took so long.” Tristan called out from across the patio with a tray of food in her hand. She came to a halt before the table and glanced at her friend as they stared up at her, their jaws slacked, “Do I have something on my face?” Tristan asked as she wiped at her face.

Samantha looked down at the device in her hands in disbelief, “It just guessed, like those Magic Eight Balls.” She let out a nervous laugh, “Right?”

Tristan sat down next to Samantha and glanced at the toy, “What’s that thing?” She inquired curiously.

“It’s a Meephit.” Lisa stated worriedly, “It’s supposed to tell your horoscopes, but when I gave it to Samantha it told her the future.”

“That’s silly.” Tristan took the toy from her friend’s hands and stared at the screen, “‘Virgo - You are likely to experience some troubles at home so stock up on some ice cream and wait out the storm.’” She read then glanced at her friends, “This doesn’t say anything about me.” She handed the device over to Lisa who stared at the screen in bewilderment.

“But Samantha wouldn’t lie.” Lisa remarked in distress as she shook the toy in an attempt to change the message, then glanced at Samantha, “And if she did that would mean she knew Trish was coming.” She stared in awe at Sam and her eyes began to twinkle, “Can you tell me my future?” She exclaimed excitedly, “Pleeeaassee...” She begged.

“She’s not a fortune teller, Lisa.” Tristan stated coldly as she passed a burger over to Samantha, “It was probably a fluke. For all you know she saw me out of the corner of her eyes which is how she knew I was coming.”

Samantha nervously laughed, “Yeah, just a fluke.” She bit into her burger and stared at the device that now lay in front of Lisa. Was it just a fluke? She wanted to try the toy again but was afraid to ask. Samantha continued to munch on her food, not noticing that Beth was paying extra close attention to her that lunch hour.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 3

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter 3

The rest of the day Sam found herself restless and she could not get that toy of Lisa’s out of her mind. She kept wondering if there was some connection between it and the strange things that have been happening to her all her life. There was, of course, the animals that seemed to have no fear of her, the strange way she would know it was going to rain and how she would know that the phone was about to ring before it actually did. She always passed it off as just nothing and yet after the incident with that toad and now this horoscope device Samantha was beginning to wonder if it was much more then just coincidence. She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn’t even notice the final bell had rung until someone bumped into her arm on their way out of the class. She shook the fog from her head and started to gather her things when she felt something pass by. She glanced up to find Beth standing in front of her desk, watching her.

“BETH!!” She jumped at the sight of the girl and grabbed at her heart in an attempt to slow it down. The way the girl’s dark eyes staring out from under her bangs made Samantha tremble. She felt as if the girl was trying to peel away at the layers of her mind and reach into her thoughts, “What are you doing here?” She inquired nervously as she continued to stuff her things into her pack.

“We have English class together.” Beth reminded the girl in her usually monotone voice, she did not seem phased by Samantha’s reaction to her suddenly appearance or really care that her friend had forgotten that she was in the class, “I thought we could walk together... or something....” Beth’s voice trailed off as if she wanted to say more but did not know how to form the words.

The moment they had first met it was apparent to Sam that the girl was not used to talking and the fact that Beth was actually asking to spend time with her was more of a shocker, “Uhhh... Sure.” Sam slung her backpack over her shoulder and started out of the class, “I need to drop by my locker. Where’s yours?” She inquired realizing just how little she knew about the girl.

“Across from yours.” Beth replied nonchalantly.

“Really?” Sam was even more astonished; “I don’t remember seeing you around my locker before. How come you never said hi in the morning before?” She inquired curiously.

Beth merely shrugged, “I’m not much of a morning person.” She lowered her head and stared down at her Mary Jane shoes as they strolled through the school halls.

“Neither am I.” Sam admitted, keeping in step beside her friend, “I nearly killed the alarm clock this morning.” She stated with a chuckle, “I never seem to be in a very good mood first thing in the morning. I don’t know why.”

Beth seemed to be about to say something then stopped herself, “Maybe we are meant for the night. I always felt more alive and awake during the night.” She explained then glanced at Samantha, “How about you? What makes you feel alive?”

Samantha thought for a moment, “I’m not sure.” She replied, she had never really thought about something like that before, “I guess I feel like that when I’m riding my bike through the woods. The wind rushing through my hair makes my mind seem more awake and I wish I could ride forever.” She suddenly realized what she was saying sounded stupid and stop herself from continuing, “Sorry, I guess that is kind of dumb.” She stated with an embarrassed flush.

Beth shook her head, “I figured you for an Earth or Wind Spirit so what you said makes sense.” She explained softly.

Samantha’s eyes widened, “Earth or Wind Spirit? What does that mean?” She asked in confusion.

“Nothing...Never mind.” Beth ran a free hand through her dark hair revealing her eye shadow covered deep green eyes. Eyes so vibrant that Sam wondered why the girl would hide them behind her bangs. Beth’s eyes darted from Sam and back to the ground, then she let go of her hair and allowed her bangs to veil her eyes from sight yet again. 

Sam felt the urge to reach out and push that hair out of the girl’s eyes again. Just to get another look at those immaculate eyes. She tried to think of how to phrase the words that were working through her mind. She wanted to compliment Beth on her eyes but everything she thought of saying sounded so cheesy to her and as such the two of them fell into an awkward silence. 

Abruptly Elizabeth stopped in the middle of the hall and pointed at a group of lockers, “My locker is over there.” She stated, trying to put an end to the unnerving silence.

Sam stared in disbelief. Beth’s locker was exactly across from her own; just as the girl had said. She swallowed her bewilderment and smiled at the girl, “Well, I’ll try to say ‘hi’ next time.” She promised as she started towards her own locker.

“Samantha?” Beth’s voice had a touch of worry to it that made Sam turn to face the girl.

“What’s up?” Samantha inquired curiously.

Beth fixed her glasses upon her nose and nervously glanced up and down the hall, “Y... your birthday is tomorrow right?” She anxiously inquired.

Samantha gave the girl a peculiar look, “Yes...” She replied feeling guilty that she did not invite the girl to her slumber party tomorrow, “I’m turning sixteen. How did you know?” She did not remember mentioning her birthday at all to Beth before.

“Be careful tonight.” Beth stated then quickly turned to her locker without another word.

Samantha watched the way the frills of the girl’s dress flowed around her lace covered legs as she moved and tried to make sense of the conversation. This day was only getting stranger by the moment and she was not sure if she wanted to know what would happen next. As she shook her head of her worries she noticed Tristan standing near their lockers, “Hi Trish, what is up?” She waved as she headed over to her friend.

Tristan did not reply her attention seemed to be drawn to Beth, a fierce look upon her face. Sam could sense a thick cloud of unease hovering over her friend’s head. She glanced over at Beth to see the girl slowly close her locker then head out of the school without so much as a look over her shoulder back at them.

Sam returned her gaze back to Tristan, whom was still glaring at Beth, “Tristan?” Samantha poked the girl in the arm.

“Huh?” Tristan blinked at Samantha, “Oh, hey Sam.” The clouds quickly dispersed the moment Tristan set her eyes on Sam. It was as if the mere sight of her friend brightened her very mood, “What were you and Beth talking about?” She inquired eagerly, a smile painted across her face.

Sam watched her friend cautiously, she was almost certain she could hear a hint of bitterness in her friend’s tone. She had never seen her friend reacting so strangely to another girl before and it worried her, “Nothing much.” She said apprehensively, “She asked about my birthday then told me to be careful tonight. That was about all.” She added with a shrug, “She is a nice girl, even if she is a little odd.”

“You didn’t invite her to your birthday party, did you?” Tristan asked uneasily.

“Nope.” Samantha milled the idea over in her head, “You think I should have?” She inquired, considering running after Beth to ask if she would be interested in a sleep over. 

“I think your mother would have kittens if she saw Beth.” Tristan remarked as she closed her locker, “Hey, you want to drop by the mall with me for a sec?” She asked, changing the subject.

A flash of Sam’s mother’s angry face entered her mind from that morning, “Yeah sure.” Samantha would do anything to spend as much time away from home as she could and a trip to the mall sounded like a grand idea.

“Let’s go then.” Tristan gestured towards the school exit and the two girls left in search of their bicycles.

****

It did not take them long to arrive at the local mall, if you could call it a mall. The building was a large slab of grey concrete that reminded Samantha more of a fallout shelter from some old Zombie Movie then an actually mall. The inside was not much better, it was a labyrinth of honey combed shaped halls lined with too many stores. To make matters worse many of the corridors went in circles or simply ended abruptly leaving a person feeling lost and confused. Samantha thought that was the building designers exact plan, to make everyone so confused that they were trapped with in its bleak walls with no sign of escape, giving them no other choice than to shop. While everyone complained about the headaches the building caused there wasn’t another mall for miles so no one was willing to go elsewhere.

Samantha and Tristan passed through the giant tinted glass double doors into the gloomy interior. The only light inside was provided by the dim glow of a few scattered lamps that lined the corridors. The lack of windows gave the place a feeling of never-ending dusk. As if the mall had been constructed for a clan of vampires and other sunlight-loathing creatures.

“What did you want to come here for?”  Samantha asked as she glanced down the long hallways at the many stores.

“Actually...” Tristan lightly flushed, “I don’t know what to get you for your birthday so I thought...” She drifted off in embarrassment.

“We’ve been friends for other for ten years now and you still don’t know what I like.” Samantha shook her head in disbelief, “I thought you would be the first to know what to get me.”

Tristan shrugged, “What can I say? You aren’t an easy person to shop for.” She stated sheepishly, “You’re unique and I like you that way.”

“Alright then.” Samantha let out a sigh of defeat, “Where do you want to go?”

“I was going to ask you that.” Tristan remarked with a smirk.

Samantha took a deep breath, “You’re impossible sometimes.” She noted then scanned the many stores and shrugged, “I’ve no idea what I want. You know me. I have trouble picking out clothes to buy.” She reminded by pulling on her shirt.

Tristan nodded knowingly, “True...” An idea formed in her head, “Hey, your mother agreed on Lisa and me staying overnight tomorrow, right?” She inquired hopefully.

Samantha nodded, “Yeah, she didn’t seem to like the idea but I managed to talk her into it.” She did not want to tell Tristan that the sleep over might be called off if her mother upheld her threat to postpone her birthday.

“How about we rent a bunch of horror movies?” Tristan inquired suddenly motivated.

“I’m only turning sixteen and you’re still fifteen.” Samantha reminded the girl, “How are we going to rent good horror movies?” She inquired, stressing the word ‘good’.

Tristan felt her idea burst and fly away, “Well, it was worth a try.” She remarked sadly when her stomach began to grumble loudly, “How about we go to the food court while you think of what you want?” She suggested, patting her tummy.

“Sure.” Samantha’s stomach was getting slightly hungry as well and the mention of food woke it up all the more, “Maybe I should tell mom where I am.” She remarked, remembering her mother’s speech about being responsible, “You know how she gets when I don’t leave a note when I’m out.” She stated dismally, not really wanting to talk to her mother just yet, but knowing if she did not she would be risking her birthday even more.

“Well, the phones are over there.” Tristan pointed to a set of payphones in circle.

“Be right back.” Samantha ran to the phones while digging out a quarter from her pocket. She dropped the coin into the slot and dialled her home number.

After a couple of rings it picked up, “Hello?” a deep voice inquired through the receiver.

“Dad?” Samantha was surprised to hear her father’s voice on the other end of the line, “What’re you doing home?” She could feel panic beginning to build up inside of herself. It had been over a month since her mother had finally kicked her father out of the house and she would never forgot that day for the yelling had been more intense then any other on that day and it really upset her. Her mother’s screams could be hear through the floor boards as she commanded her father to leave and never come back, however he drunkenly refused to leave, stating he had no money for a cab. Samantha finally got so fed up with the noise that she stormed down the stairs and handed her father ten dollars from her own pocket and asked him to go away. She had not seen him since that day and was much happier with the arrangement. Now if she could just get rid of her mother as well then her life would be great.

“Hey baby girl.” Her father’s voice rang over the phone, snapping Sam out of her reminiscing. His speech filled with that chipper tone that she had begun to loath because it usually meant he wanted something, “I was hoping to run into you at home before your mother came back from work, but I guess you are not here.” He stated with a nervous chuckle.

‘Well at least he isn’t drunk.’ Samantha thought as she tried to figure out what to say to the man, “Listen... dad, could you leave a note for mom for me?” She asked hopefully, not really wanting to talk to the man anymore then she did her mother.

“Sure thing.” She could hear here father search for some paper, “Shoot.”

“Tell her I’m with Tristan and she offered to buy me dinner as a birthday thing.”  She explained quickly. “So I won’t be home for dinner, but I should be home later.”
                               
“You’re having dinner with Tristan?” She could hear her father’s heart breaking over the phone; “I thought I could take you out for dinner tonight.” He said unhappily, “You know... like I used to do on your birthday.”

‘Sorry dad, but I don’t want to deal with your drunkenness the day before my birthday.’ She wanted to say but bit her tongue. She saw Tristan move in closer and she cupped her hand over the receiver, “My father is home.” She whispered loud enough for Tristan to hear.

“Your father?” Tristan’s face grew long with worry.

Samantha returned to the phone, “Listen dad, I’m sorry but I have to go. Could you make sure you leave the note for mom? You know how she gets when I don’t leave a note. Thanks.” Before the man could reply she hung up the phone and took a deep shaky breath.

Tristan gingerly set her hand on her friend’s shoulder, “You going to be alright?” She inquired, concerned for her friend.

Samantha closed her eyes leaned against the phone booth as she tried to steady herself. She could feel the warmth of Tristan’s hand upon her shoulder and focussed on it in an attempt to gain some form of control over her senses. She could almost feel Tristan’s anxiety filled eyes carefully watching her. Sam suddenly wanted to be in the girl’s arms, to be held and protected from the madness that was her family, “C... can I stay at your place for a bit tonight?” She finally managed to ask, feeling drained from the short conversation with her father.

Tristan brightened and rubbed her friend’s shoulder, “Sure, you know my mom loves you.” She exclaimed cheerfully. Tristan always seemed to lighten up at the idea of Samantha coming over, even if it was for a short bit.

Sam was so glad she had such a good friend as Tristan. The girl was always there for Samantha in so many ways. Sam was almost sure that if she asked to live in the girl’s closet she would jump at the idea and even clear out a spot for her in a moments notice. “At least someone loves me.” Samantha remarked miserably as she glanced up at her friend’s beaming face.

Tristan opened her mouth as if to say something then changed her mind and glanced around nervously, “Hey! Look at those things.” She quickly moved away from Samantha towards a toy store not far from the payphones. Out front of the store Samantha spotted the strange toys that Lisa had during lunch, “Would you look at these things!?!” Tristan exclaimed picking up a pink Meephit that slightly resembled a rabbit and showed it to Samantha.

“I thought you told Lisa you weren’t into those things?” Samantha inquired as she approached the spinning rack of toys. There was a large variety of creature on display; everything from cats to crocodiles could be seen staring out of their sealed plastic containers, pleading for someone to free them from their prison.

Tristan gave a sheepish grin, “I lied.” She remarked as she picked up another of the creatures and scanned it, “I just wanted Lisa to shut up.” She admitted bluntly, “You know how she can be at times. It’s like she will never quit.”

“Yeah.” Samantha agreed as she turned the rack around, gazing from one critter to another.

“You know how much I love strange stuffed animals.” Tristan continued then stopped abruptly and blinked in stunned bewilderment at the Meephit’s packaging and then another, “Hey, would you look at this.” She handed one of the toys to Samantha and pointed at the labels.

Sam took the toy in her hand, being careful to hold it by its plastic box. In bright rainbow colours were the words ‘MEEPHIT!!’ and underneath is exclaimed that this was ‘Your new psychic pal.’ Samantha chuckled at the caption, and then noticed what her friend had been pointing at. Along the side of the package there was a small warning on the label, “‘Some effects may very with each person and Meephit’s persona.’” She read, “What is that supposed to mean?” She exclaimed in confusion. It made her think that it was possible for these toys to suddenly turn on its owner and attack them for no apparent reason. The thought made Samantha shudder and she quickly place the creature back on the rack.

A female store clerk with a wide smile upon her face, “They are cool, aren’t they girls?” she stated in a bubbly voice. Sam presumed the woman must have been a collage student and probably did not think that these creatures were cool at all. She was probably told that she needed to sell these things any way she could or she would be fired, “They tell your fortune and can even tell you about the person who is your perfect soul mate.” She happily continued on.

Samantha glanced at the toy sceptically then recalled the one Lisa owned and frowned.

“How do they work?” Tristan asked, staring at the bunny with extreme interest.

“I’ve been told they look into your dreams.” The clerk stated happily, a little to chipperly for Samantha, “They are able to read your dreams and see what lays in your future.” She explained.

Sam was about to tell Tristan she wanted to leave when she spotted a Meephit that looked like the toad from that morning, complete with large black eyes that stared out at her. She reached out and took the toad off the rack and gazed into its dark eyes curiously. A faint tingling filled her arm and felt the slight sensation of wind flowing passed her. She glanced around in search of the source of the breeze, but when she could not find it she turned back to the creature and those eyes.

“That one just came in today.” The clerk remarked with a grin, “Every week a new member of the Meephit family arrives and I’m always curious to see what they will come up with next.”

Samantha’s face grew long as the creature transfixed her. She was about to set her hand upon the animal when Tristan grabbed her by the arm, “Samantha? Are you alright?” She inquired, worriedly giving the girl’s hand a squeeze.

“Huh?” Samantha pulled her eyes away from the toy to fall on the distressed face of her friend. A smile broke out across Sam’s face and she handed the toy to her friend, “Would you get me this for my birthday?” She inquired shyly.

Tristan took the toy from her hand and glanced at it then back to her friend, “Are… are you sure?” She inquired uneasily.

“Yeah,” Samantha said with a nod, “He will make a great addition to my collection.”

“But I thought your mother told you to get rid of your stuffies?” Tristan asked leerily.

“It’s not up to her what I get for my birthday.” Samantha remarked angrily.

Tristan took a step back from her friend, slightly startled by the anger in Sam’s eyes. She glanced down at the toy toad again and shrugged, “If you insist.” A smile suddenly crossed her face and she scooped up the bunny, “I’ll get one too. Then for if your mother complains we can say that all the girls have them. Kay?”

Samantha nodded in agreement.

“You have made a good choice.” The clerk remarked as took the toys from the girl’s hands then gestured to the cashier’s counter, “Would you follow me and I’ll ring up your purchase?” She inquired as she rounded the counter.

Tristan dug in her pocket for her wallet, a black leather wallet with a white skull sewn onto the outside, “It’s a good thing mom gave me some extra spending money yesterday.” She stated as she pulled a couple of twenties out of her wallet and set them on the counter.

Samantha did not hear her friend, she was too busy watching the clerk punch numbers into the register and place the new toys into a plastic bag, “Here you go, Enjoy!” The clerk stated as she handed some change and the bag to Tristan who counted the remaining money and sighed.

“How about we go to my place for dinner?” She inquired anxiously.

“Sure.” Samantha agreed happily, “Maybe your mom will rent us a movie or something?”

“Worth givin’ it a shot.” Tristan remarked with a shrug, “I just hope she doesn’t kill me for spending all this money on these things.”

“Just tell her it was a gift for me and she’ll understand.” Samantha suggested as they headed back out of the mall.

“I hope you’re right.” Tristan remarked as they hopped on their bikes and headed for her house.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 4

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter 4

“Mom, I’m home!” Tristan called out as she entered the dark living room of her small one and a half floor house, “Sam’s with me!” She announced, kicking her shoes off into the open closet next to the front door.

A woman in her mid thirties with curly blonde hair stepped out of the lit kitchen with a fall themed dishtowel in her hands, “Samantha, it is good to see you.” The woman stated, genuinely happy to see her daughter’s friend, “Are you staying over for supper?” She inquired with an inviting smile that made Sam smile in return.

Samantha felt a faint flush of embarrassment cross her face as she added her shoes to the closet. She hated the fact that she needed a place to hide from her family and hoped that her shame was well concealed by the gloom of the living room, “Could I please, Diana?” She nervously inquired. Even though she had stayed over night at Tristan’s place many times over the years, and had been told on numerous times to consider her friend’s mother as her own, she still felt as if she was a burden on Tristan’s mother. Even such a simple request as eating over made a pit of guilt rise in Samantha’s stomach that she had to continuously fight to keep at bay, and so the most she could muster was using the woman’s first name.

“Sure thing.” Tristan’s mother remarked cheerfully, “I was about to start cooking, but seeing as your birthday is tomorrow how about I order some pizza?” She inquired as she moved towards the phone, not really awaiting an answer.

“YES!!” Tristan agreed enthusiastically, “Thanks Mom!” She gave her mother a quick hug.

“What do you have there?” Tristan’s mother asked as she eyed the plastic bag in the girl’s hand.

Tristan backed up from her mother and nervously held the bag behind her back, “It’s a gift for Samantha.” She remarked, uncertain of her mother’s reaction to the toys.

The woman glanced between the two girls, “Tristan, did you ask for Samantha to pick out her gift again?” She inquired with a hint of disapproval.

Tristan rubbed the back of her neck, “I didn’t know what to get her.” Tristan protested, “I wanted it to be something she really wanted. You know how hard it is to choose something for her.”

Tristan’s mother shook her head in disbelief, “Alright,” She let out a sigh of defeat, “So what did you get her?”

“You won’t believe these things.” Tristan stated excitedly as she dug through the bag, “They are so neat and they come with this cool computer organizer and everything.” She explained as she pulled out Samantha’s toad and held it out to her mother.

The woman took the toy suspiciously and scanned the packaging, “Are you sure this is what you wanted Samantha?” She asked the girl warily.

“Yeah...” Samantha responded shyly, “Lisa had one at school and she let me try it... They are kind of cool... I guess....” She said with a shrug.

Tristan’s mother eyed her daughter carefully, “Let me guess. You bought one for yourself too, am I right?” She inquired knowingly.

Tristan flushed, produced a second toy from the bag and held it out to her mother.

Again the woman shook her head at her daughter, “I think it is cute that the two of you like the same things, but sometimes I wonder about you Tristan.” She stated with a sigh, “Why don’t you two go downstairs while I order pizza, alright?” She instructed as she picked up the phone off the wall where is hung and began to dial.

“Thanks mom!!” Tristan hurried off. In the corner of the kitchen were two sets of stairs, one leading up and another down to the small subbasement below, which was the direction the girls headed. Tristan’s father had turned the room into a rec-room for himself before Tristan had been born, however recently Tristan’s mother had it converted into a space for her Tristan and her friends. It was a small l-shaped room with several small rectangular windows near the ceiling that never let in much light and always kept the room in a permanent state of dusk. Trish flipped on a small lamp that sat upon a small table next to old couch that was well worn in and Sam recalled many long weekend days lounging upon its soft surface.  A wobbly coffee table took up the centre of the room covered in several teen magazines, while small television and a stereo filled up a small entertainment unit on the far wall. Around the corner of the room were three doors; one to Tristan’s bedroom, another to the laundry room and the last was a back door that leads to the back yard. On more then one occasion Samantha had ventured to her friend’s home in the late hours of the night, tossing pebbles at Trish’s window in hopes that she would awaken. She was glad when Tristan moved to the basement because they were less likely to disturb Tristan’s mother when using the back door. On Sam’s fourteenth birthday Trish gave her a key to the back so she would have a place to sleep if she needed it. That was the greatest gift she could have ever be given and she remembered crying in her friend’s arms on that night.

Samantha flopped down on the couch, bouncing slightly and causing the springs to protest ever so, and stretched out, “Your mother is really cool.” She stated with a yawn as the days events began to take a toll on her body.

Tristan shook her head in disagreement, “She’s weird.” She remarked, “I think she is still trying to make up for messing things up with dad.”

“At least your mother got rid of your father while you were still young.” Samantha stated dismally, “You didn’t have to suffer with their arguing any more.”

Tristan fell silent as she always did when her father was mentioned. She slowly moved around the coffee table, setting the toys atop a pile of magazines, and sat at the far end of the couch.

Sam wished she knew how to help the girl open up more but decided to let the issue drop. Instead she lifted her legs to rest her feet lightly against the girl’s lap and Tristan set a hand upon one of Sam’s feet. Samantha enjoyed the comforting warmth of her friend’s hand upon her skin as she tried to think of something to say. She could feel Tristan’s thumb trace circles around her ankle and Samantha closed her eyes as she savoured the pleasant feeling when Tristan’s mother’s voice came drifting down the stairs.

“Pizza will be here in forty-five minutes girls.” Tristan’s mother called out.

“Alright.” Tristan yelled back, “Thanks mom.” She glanced down at Samantha then quickly retracted her hand, almost as if she suddenly became aware of the fact that her hand was on her friend’s foot.

A strange silence filled the room as Tristan nervously fiddled with her fingers and the quietness was stated to make Samantha feel uneasy. Samantha hated this uncomfortable stillness and noted that it had been happening more and more over the last year. She was afraid that one of these days it would burst and that would be the end of their friendship. She let her head roll over to stare at the two toys lying upon the coffee table.

Something about these things were really creeping her out and she was not even sure why she wanted one. They looked cute and were indeed interest, but there was something about them that really bothered her. She could not even understand what compelled her to want the thing and the more she stared at those creatures the more she wished that she had refused to get them. She could almost feel them staring at her from beyond their plastic casing and it made her feel troublesome.

Tristan glanced at Sam then to the toys and back again, “You regretting getting those?” She inquired as if she read her friend’s mind.

Samantha was startled by her friend’s words, “N... no...” She stammered then grabbed the back to the couch to pull herself into a seated position, tucked her legs under herself, “I just didn’t want to open mine until you opened yours first.” She lied and suddenly wished she had kept her mouth shut. She did not want to open their packages. She got a bad feeling that when they did something horrible would happen, but she did not want to tell Tristan that. She might have been her best friend, and the person she told almost everything, however this was one thing that she was sure her friend would laugh at her over so she kept her mouth shut and just stared at the toys.

Tristan reach out for the toys, “How about we open them together?” She inquired handing the toad to her friend.

“Alright.” Samantha felt a little less tense that Tristan had made the suggestion. There was something special about them opening the toys at the same time, something they used to do on Christmas when they were children. She took the toad in Trish’s hands and glanced upon its face. Unlike Lisa’s, this one did not have a shocked expression. It looked more melancholy and she could almost feel the sadness emitting from the toy through its clear prison.

Tristan took no time to remove her bunny from it’s packaging and Sam glanced up to see Tristan turn her toy over in her hands, staring at it disappointedly, “The way that girl at the store was going on I was almost expecting it to come to life the moment I opened the package.” She stated with a slight chuckle.

Samantha joined in on the laughter, however her’s held an edge of nervousness. Reluctantly, Sam began to remove her critter’s packaging to find it came free rather with little difficulty and the creature popped out of it’s case with ease, flopping onto her lap. She could feel odd warmth from the spot where the creature now lay, not like the sensation she got from her friend’s hands. This was almost hot, as if whatever was within its plush skin could burn you if you cut it open. She imagined hot blood flowing steadily under that fuzzy exterior and a small heart pumping away. She was almost afraid to pick it up for fear that it might actually move. She saw a small card drift out of the box, and caught it before it fell off the couch. “It says here we just need to take out the psychic calculator from the pouch in its chest and pull the tab out of the back of the device,” She read as she skimmed the words on the card, “then answer its question before it will work.”

“Sounds simple enough.” Tristan stated and without the slightest hesitation she pushed her fingers into her rabbit’s chest causing Samantha to shudder in disgust at the sight. Tristan retrieved a soft pink device with white heart shaped buttons and turned it over to find a small white, heart-shaped, tab sticking out of the back. The moment she pulled the tab free the device came to life with a few beeps and other cute sounds. She turned the device over and read the message, “Hello, I am Floppy. What is your name?” Tristan read aloud and laughed, “Neat!” She exclaimed and began to push the buttons to spell out her name.

Courage filled Samantha as she noted that Tristan’s pet did not lunge for her friend’s throat. She cautiously pulled open the toad’s belly to find a dark green device within. Taking a deep breath she stuck her fingers into the slit, almost expecting to feel organs moving about. Not wanting to keep her fingers in the creature to long she quickly retrieved the device. It had light green leaves for buttons and a leaf shaped display area. She turned it over to find a small green leaf sticking out of the back and pulled it out to hear the same series of beeps and music. When she turned the device back around and proceeded to read the message that blinked across the screen, “Hi, I’m Toader! Nice to meet you, what is your name?” The second line held a blinking leaf shaped cursor that awaited Samantha’s answer. She glanced up from the toy at Tristan with a puzzled look upon her face, “They were not very clever with the names, were they?” She noted with a hint of distaste.

Tristan shrugged, “I think Floppy suits mine.” She remarked as she continued to answer the thing questions.

Samantha pressed the buttons on her toy to enter her name, S-A-M and then hit enter. The screen blinked for a moment then a new message appeared.

“What is your full name?” It inquired.

Samantha blinked at the screen then turned to her friend, “Hey, Trish? Did you enter your full name?” She inquired nervously.

“I tried Trish first.” Tristan replied with a frown, “But it doesn’t seem to like short forms.” She stated, mystified by her new toy.                                

Samantha turned back to her’s and entered her full name, next it asked for her birthday. She punched in the month of September and the twenty-eighth, and then entered and the thing came to life in her hands causing her to jump ever so slightly. Suddenly it began to play Happy Birthday in off toned beeps.

“What did you do?” Tristan inquired anxiously.

Samantha shrugged, “I just told it my birthday.” She turned the thing over in her hands then looked at the VCR clock to see it was only five o’clock, “It didn’t even ask me for the current date or anything.”

“Maybe it was programmed ahead of time.” Tristan suggested with a shrug.

“Maybe...” Samantha seemed unsure about that answer. She did not get to puzzle over it for long before the devise started beeping and asking more questions. She glanced at the screen to see more words crossing the display, “What is your favourite colour?” She read out loud, “Red, of course.” She mumbled, embarrassed to find herself talking to the device as if it would understand her. She glanced up to see Tristan was to busy answering her toy’s questions to notice Samantha’s comments and let out a sigh of relief. She returned to her device and entered her answer.

The two girls silently answered the multitude of questions the toy had for them. It asked everything from the simplest of details, such as their favourite animal, to strange questions, such as what they eat that morning. Before they knew it the doorbell rang to announce the arrival of the pizza delivery person.

“Pizza is here girls!” Tristan’s mother called out, startling the girl’s out of the spell the toy had over them. 

Tristan set her toy down and stretched, “That thing asks a lot of questions. I can’t believe I just got quizzed on my life by a toy” She remarked with a chuckle then glanced over at her friend, “You finished answering your questions?” She inquired as she got to her feet. 

Samantha punched in a few more letters, “Almost, I think.” She remarked, slightly mesmerized by the barrage of questions, “Go get some pizza. I’ll be right up.” She suggested, not taking her eyes off the device before her.

“‘Kay!” Tristan started towards the stairs then stopped and glanced back at her friend with concern in her eyes, “You sure you’ll be only a moment?” She inquired worriedly.

Samantha simply nodded.

Tristan hastily climbed the stairs to the kitchen, occasionally taking a glimpse down the stairs at her friend as she sat hunched over her new toy.

Samantha did not see the uneasy look upon her friend’s face before the girl turned and ran up the stairs. She busily filled out the finally question and hit enter. “Thank you Samantha. Is there anything you would like to ask me before you go eat?” It inquired.

She stared at the device then at the stairs. How did it possible know that she was about to leave it to eat? Maybe she would test the thing before leaving it. A question formed in her mind. Something she always wondered since she was very little. A question that she was sure this small toy would not be able to answer, “Is there someone who loves me?” She asked then hit the enter key, certain that there was no way it would have an answer for her.

The screen blinked for a few second and suddenly it filled with little hearts, “She awaits you upstairs.” It simply stated.

Samantha could feel her hands begin to tremble and her heart leap into her throat, making it hard to breath. How could it know that she was downstairs? Her eyes honed on the first word, ‘She’, How did it even know that there was a girl upstairs? One of the many questions the device had asked was Samantha’s gender and she told it female so why would it even suggest that a girl was in love with her? She swallowed hard as her eyes read and reread the message over and over again.

“Samantha, you coming?” Tristan called out from the kitchen.

“Yeah!” She found the off switch and flicked it, watching the screen turn blank, then shakily set the toy down on the coffee table next to its plushie skin. There was no way this toy could know who loved her. It was not possible and the thought that Tristan could be that person made her laugh. She had known the girl for years and there was no way Tristan felt love for her. Maybe sisterly love, but not real love.

She decided to forget about it and headed upstairs for some pizza. Yet the thought that someone could actually love her had already planted a seed within Samantha’s chest and she could feel it’s roots wrapping around her heart with every step she took. An ache began to build up inside of her as she approached the stairs. Her hand set upon the railing and she gazed up at the kitchen above, trying to will her legs to move, to climb those stairs. The mere thought of eating next to Tristan racked at her heart and she found she could not face Tristan if her feelings were true.

Sam quickly turned back to the toy; it’s black eyes staring at her from its spot on the coffee table. She suddenly broke from the stairs and scooped up the device into her hands. Trembling as she fumbled with the switch and watched as words began to scroll across the screen.

“Hello, Sam.” It said in pixelized letters, “Is there something you wish to ask me?”

‘SAM!!’ Samantha’s mind raced. First the thing asked for her full name and now it was using her nick. What was with this thing? Shakily she punched in a new question. She needed to know if Tristan really did love her and she needed to know now, “Is Trish the one who loves me?” She typed, having to correct a typo or two as she did because her hand shook so much, then anxiously hit the enter key.

The screen blinked again and its answer appeared before Samantha’s eyes, “Of course.” It stated simply.

Samantha let the device drop to the coffee table in disbelief. How could Tristan love her? There was no possible way. She scratched her head as she tried to piece together the events of her years with Tristan. Was there ever a time that Tristan showed signs that she could be in love with Samantha? She milled over the question and yet her mind would not give her the answer she wanted, then she remembered the way Tristan would pet her foot when she laid on the couch and the way she held her tight on those nights that she cried. Was it truly possible that her best friend was in love with her? Her head began to hurt the more she tried to think of what to do. Finally she grabbed the device and it’s plush skin, and then stuffed the gadget into her back pocket as she dashed up the stairs to the front door.

“Sam?” Tristan entered the living room and stared at Samantha in confusion, “Is there something wrong?” She anxiously asked.

Samantha shook her head in frustration, “I... don’t know.” She muttered as she pulled on her shoes, “I think I’m just... worried.” She stated, unsure of what to say.

“About your mom?” Tristan inquired, restlessly 

‘No, about you.” She wanted to yell, but took a deep breath and let it out, “Yeah... Dad doesn’t always do as he is told and he might have forgotten to write the message down.” She lied, “Mom could be having a fit right now for all I know.” She remarked, hoping her friend would believe her fib.

Tristan’s mother entered from the dinning room at the end of the room, “Would you like me to call your place and see if everything is alright?” She asked with concern in her eyes.

Samantha gave the woman a nervous smile. She wished her mother was as concerned for her well being as Tristan’s, “That’s okay.” She replied then stepped towards the door, “Maybe I should get back home before she really does worry.”

Tristan let out a depressed moan, “I was hoping that you could stay overnight and then we could have two sleepovers in a row.”

Samantha considered giving the girl a hug to calm her worried then stopped herself. She stepped back from her friend and scanned the girl’s features.  – add more -- Sam had dreamed on many occasions that they really were sisters and now the thought of this girl loving her was frightening Sam. She knew nothing about love or relationships. She had gone to one dance with a boy and nothing else. She would rather go to the movies with Tristan then go out with anyone else. Did the device somehow know this? Maybe it was trying to tell her that she had been leading Tristan along. The very thought of which made her tremble in fear. She suddenly turned away from her friend, “I should go.” She mumbled as she opened the front door.

Tristan quickly picked up her shoes and began to put them on, “I’ll come with you.” She stated anxiously.

Samantha felt herself freeze at the very suggestion, “N... no...” She stammered as she felt her finger grip the door knob tightly, “I... I can handle my mom. I don’t want her yelling at you too.” She remarked then pushed open the screen door; “I’ll talk to you later.” She was greeted by a gust of cool autumn air that felt good upon her skin. The sensation sent a shiver through her body and across her skull in such a way that comforted her in a strange way and made her think of Beth’s comment about her being a wind spirit. She quickly discarded the through and turned back to her friend.

“I’ll see you tomorrow then.” Tristan suggested with a smile that Samantha could tell was forced.

Samantha picked up her backpack from next to the door and stuffed plushie’s skin into one of the many pockets; “I’ll see you then.” Without awaiting an answer she let the screen slam behind her and ran out into the cool night. As she jumped onto her bike she could see Tristan standing on the porch watching her. Sam was almost certain she could see her friend rubbing tears from her eyes but refused to believe it. She did not want to believe any of it.

Samantha pedalled with all her might; the night air roaring passed her ears, biting at the flesh of her cheeks and hand. She ignored the sensation as she sped down the back paths that twisted through her neighbourhood at an increasing pace.  So much had happened that day that her mind felt broken. It kept jumping over moments in her life with Tristan and would not leave her alone. The more she tried to force Tristan out of her mind the more the images of the girl persisted. She pushed down on the pedal and allowed the bike to speed up. She jumped off the path and onto the street, nearly being hit by a car. She did not hear the wail of the car’s horn as she hopped the bike back up onto the sidewalk. She continued to jump on and off the curb, racing between parked cars in an attempt to shake the worries from her mind. Usually a good ride on her bike would rattle her woes loose, however this time they stuck fast and she found that no matter how much she pushed herself it didn’t seem to help.

Within moments she arrived at her home and wished there was another block or two of road to ride along. She did not want to be here any more then she wanted to run away from Tristan. Her eyes scanned the streets in search of some place to curl up and hide. She forced herself to not crawl under a rock and allowed the bike coast up her driveway, parking it beside the house. Her heart was pounding out of control and she felt like she could ride forever, but she was afraid that if she allowed it herself to continue her legs would carry her to the next town where she would truly have no one. She decided to leave the bike for now and just go hide in her room.

As she approached the front door she realized that maybe coming home was not such the greatest idea. Right away she could hear the arguing of her parents from beyond the house’s thick walls and regretted putting the bike down. It would seem that no matter where she went she would always be running from something. Her hands hurt from the cold air and she knew she could not stay outside for much longer. She settled on heading straight up to her room to grab a thicker sweater, her jacket and glove then go out for a longer bike ride. She set her hand on the doorknob when a serge of a raw heat shocked her hand and she heard the device in her pocket suddenly spring to life. She let go of the knob and reached for the toy to find the devise was blinking wildly and vibrating in her hands. She looked at the screen to see on word repeated across its surface, “RUN!!!” It screamed at the girl.

The door abruptly opened at that moment and Samantha glanced up to see her father staring at her in stunned shock, his head a mess of curls that reminded Samantha of whom to blame for her own hair’s unrulingness. A pair of thick lenses sat crooked upon his red sweat covered face while a pair of beady brown eyes stared out at her through the glare of the street lamps created. Even still she could see the fear and bewilderment in those eyes and noticed there were small cuts upon his cheek and brown. He turned away from his daughter to glance over his and for the first time Samantha saw her mother, her face twisted in anger as she barrelled around the corner from the living room. Her eyes were wild and wisps of light blond hair hung in her face, obscuring part of the snarl that crossed her lips. In her hands she held a large crystal vase, spilling flowers and water across the linoleum that covered the hall floor.

“Get out of here and never come back!” Her mother screech as she flung a glass vase at the man.  Her father quickly ducked as the vase tumbled through the air, over him. Sam had no time to think, her mind frozen by the scene she saw before her. No time to move as the vase collided with her head, shattering into hundreds of pieces, sending the small girl sprawling onto the grass lawn below the patio. The last thing Samantha recalled was the sound of her mother’s worried voice as her blurry image hovered over her and then everything went black.

‘Happy Birthday Sam.’ She thought to herself as she felt a thick darkness encircle her mind.


*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 5

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter 5

Samantha opened her eyes to find herself sitting in the front passenger seat of a car. In her hands she held her Meephit, however it looked different then she remembered. She ran a hand across the creatures fur and noticed that it felt old and worn, as if the toy had been though many hand instead of fresh out of it package. She let her fingers trace over the toy’s plastic eyes and could feel small bumps and scratches upon its surface. How could the creature suddenly age the way it had and where was she anyway?

“Don’t you like your toy?” A warm, loving, voice nervously inquired from the drivers seat.

Samantha turned to see a strange woman smiling back at her. Here hair was black as ash and her skin fair and white. Samantha could see motherly love in the woman’s eyes when she glanced her way, “It is great, thank you mom.” Sam heard herself suddenly say.

“I’m sorry I could not afford a new one for you.” The woman said dismally, “Money is tight with your father gone.”

Samantha set her hand upon her mother’s. “Don’t worry.” She soothed, “I love it. I really do. Thank you.”

The woman smiled at her then turned to face the road again.

Sam puzzled over what had happened to her. She glanced out the window to see a familiar series of houses pass by. She was still in her hometown, but that did not explain the strange woman sitting next to her or the fact that she could not control her body. She caught a glimpse of herself in the car’s side mirror and was stunned by what she saw. Staring back at her was the face of a beautiful young girl with long black hair that shone like strains of ebony and skin so pale that they make Beth look like she had a tan. The girl’s eyes were dark blue with large eyelashes that nearly touched the girl’s fine dark eyebrows. Samantha found herself transfixed by the image before her. Had she been reborn in a new body? Was this her birthday present after all the hellish things she had suffered through? She pondered over this as she stared down at the toy in her hand. Maybe it was this toy’s doing. Could the Meephit have the power to transport her into a different body entirely? The thought of which was exciting and somewhat frightening. She tried to think of what to do when a voice entered her mind.

((What are you doing in here?)) The voice gently inquired.

Samantha looking around in search of the voices, she tried to speak but could not find her own voice.

((Don’t try to speak.)) The voice remarked calmly, ((Just think of what you wish to say.))

((W... who are you?)) Samantha thought, her own voice suddenly echoing in her mind.

((I am Star.)) The voice stated, ((This is my body. I should be asking who you are?)) She added firmly.

((What?!?)) Samantha tried to fathom how she could end up inside someone else’s mind, ((I... I’m sorry... I... I...)) She stammered, she did not know how one was supposed to act when they found themselves inside another’s mind.

“Star, are you alright honey?”  Star’s mother asked, giving her daughter a curious look.

Star smiled at her mother, “I’m fine mom.” She replied, “Just another lost soul trying to find its way home.”

The woman’s smile faltered for a moment, “Alright dear. Just help them along their way quickly.” She nervously stated and she turned her eyes back to the road, “We should be home soon.”

((You’re taking this rather well.)) Samantha remarked, thankful that she did not end up in a hostile mind, ((Although your mother seems to be bit uneasy.))

Star shrugged, ((It happened to me a few times as well, when I was younger.)) She remarked simply, ((She get’s a little worried when other people enter my mind is all. Now, what is your name and do you remember how you got here?)) She inquired gently.

((Oh, sorry...)) Samantha apologized for her rudeness, ((I’m Samantha. I was heading home and suddenly the door opened and the next thing I know my mother hit me in the head with a vase.)) She frantically explained.

((Ouch!)) Star cringed at the mere thought of the accident, ((Well Samantha, I am Star. It is nice to meet you. You probably were knocked out and you need to return to your body before it dies, along with you.)) She stated collectedly.

Sam wondered how anyone could take something like this so calmly. She must have had to deal with a lot of death in her years in order to not be phased by the idea of meeting someone who may soon be dead, ((Do you know how I can get back to my body?)) She inquired worriedly.

((Sometimes it’s easy and others it isn’t.)) Star stated weakly, ((Once I had a little boy’s mind inside of my head for three months before I was able to return him to his body.))

Samantha shuddered at the idea of being trapped in someone else’s mind for that long, ((I hope that won’t happen this time.)) She remarked restlessly, ((Not to say you are not a nice girl, you are beautiful. I mean that is... Well...)) She felt herself flush and hoped that the girl did not notice.

Sam felt Star blush, it was a warm feeling that made Sam smile to herself, ((Thank you...)) Star said shyly, ((I am sure you are pretty too.))

Sam shook her head dismally, ((I’m rather boring looking.)) She explained solemnly, ((My hair is a pain and my body still looks like a child’s. I hate the way I look.))

((Maybe I will get a chance to see for myself.)) Star remarked with a grin, ((Now is there anything else you remember before you blacked out? Like something you were holding or wearing that you felt a special attachment too, every small detail helps.))

Samantha glanced down at the stuffed toad in the girl’s hands, ((I had a Meephit just the one you have, only it was newer.)) She mentioned curiously.

Star held the toy up and looked at it, ((My mother picked this up from a garage sale. It was a gift for my sixteenth birthday, which is tomorrow.))

((Really!?!)) Samantha exclaimed excitedly, ((I got mine for my sixteenth birthday as well and guess what? It is tomorrow too. Wow!!))

((That is interesting.)) Star milled over what she had been told, ((Well then, let’s see if this works. Try lightly closing your eyes and think about that toy. If we are lucky it is still close to you and you will be able to use it to track your body.))

((Are you sure this will work?) Sam inquired nervously, ((I mean what will happen if I get stuck in someone else’s body?))

((Not likely to happen.)) Star informed the girl, ((Once you have grounded yourself in one person’s body you are more likely to simply return to that body if you don’t find your own. If that happens we will just try to find another way to work things out.)) She explained.

Samantha was still sceptical of the plan, but decided it was better then nothing, ((I’ll try it then.)) She half-heartedly agreed.

Star gave a warm smile, ((It was nice meeting you, Samantha.)) She said, ((I hope to be able to meet you again in the future.))

((I like the thought of that.)) Samantha stated then frowned, ((That is to meet up in my real body and not return to your mind... you know...))

Star nodded, ((I know what you mean. Good luck))

Samantha lightly closed her eyes and tried to concentrate on the feeling of that strange toy. She could feel its warmth in her hand and the fuzziness of its body against her fingers. She suddenly realized that its fur had returned to its original soft plush. Excitedly she focussed upon that feeling and her mind abruptly flew through the air. A world of Technicolor images rushed through her mind and she soared with the wind in her hair. Just as she was beginning to enjoy the feeling she abruptly stopped and began to fall from the sky. She was plunged into complete darkness as her body toppled downward at an increasing rate. Terrified of what was happening she clenched her eyes shut as she prepared for the inevitable impact, however her body landed upon something soft and bounced ever so slightly then settled back down again.

“I think she is coming too.” A strange voice from above her said.

Sam could feel a warm bed beneath her body and something soft in her right hand. Cautiously opened her eyes to see her Meephit was tightly gripped in her hand, its fur as new as she remembered it and its eyes no longer covered in scratched. She let out a sigh of relief at the sight of the things. For the first time she was glad to have the strange toy in her hands. Star was right; it was still close to her. Someone must have placed it in her hand while she lay unconscious. She smiled down at the creature.

“Oh my, she has opening her eyes!!!” Someone exclaimed in excitement. Samantha glanced up to see tall, thin woman dressed in a nurse’s uniform hovering over her with an expression of extreme happiness upon her face.

“I’ll find a doctor.” Another woman out of Samantha’s sight said then rushed off.
 
“Samantha? Samantha can you hear me?” The nurse called softly out to the girl.

“W...who are you?” Samantha choked. Her voice felt dry and her eyes darted around the room to find herself lying in a hospital with wires attached to her body, a tub coming out of her arm and a monitor beeping over her head as many people rushing around her.

“I am Nurse Janis.” The woman stated, “You had a bit of an accident.” She explained softly, fluffing the girl’s pillows and checking an IV on a pole next to her bed.

“I want to go home.” Samantha tried to sit up only to have the woman hold her down.

“You need to lay down.” The nurse demanded, “You have a nasty bump on your head and you are lucky to not be coma.”

“Or worse...” Samantha mumbled and touched the bandages upon her head and wincing at the pain that shot through her skull, “How long was I out for?” She asked through clenched teeth.

The nurse glanced at her watch, “About eight or nine hours. It is two a.m. now. Happy birthday by the way.” She congratulated the girl. “You are now sixteen. How does it feel?”

Samantha layback on the pillows as a wave of dizziness circled about her head, “I didn’t miss it.” She breathed with sigh of relief.

((I’m glad to see you made it back.)) Star’s voice echoed through her head, ((And you didn’t miss your birthday either.)) Samantha could hear a smile upon the girl’s voice.

Samantha’s eyes opened wide in surprise, “STAR!?!” She exclaimed aloud, “What are you doing here?”

The nurse jumped at the girl’s words and looked around herself, “Who are you talking to?” She inquired frantically.

Star shrugged, ((Don’t worry. I’m not in your body.)) Star assured the girl, ((However, our minds seem to be linked in some strange way. I’m not sure how but it looks like we will get a chance to know each other after all.))

Samantha abruptly sat up, “WHAT!?!”


*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 6

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006

Chapter Six

For the next hour Samantha found herself surrounded by a group of doctors and nurses as they asked her a multitude of questions and tested her for any possible brain damage or signs of her relapsing in to a state of unconsciousness. During the entire time she never saw even a glimpse of her parents or her little sister anywhere. She was certain they must be worried about her, sure they may have disliked her, but that would not explain why they would not be there.

“W... where is my family?” She finally inquired, glancing at the many faces around her. She could see the question made them uneasy as they glanced to one another for an answer to give. Finally nurse Janis spoke.

“Do you remember what hit you?” The nurse inquired lightly, her face long with worry.

Samantha blinked at the woman, “Yeah, my mother threw a vase at my father, but hit me instead.”

The nurse cleared her throat, “Well you see...” She looked up at the doctor as if in search of what to say when someone knocked at the door.

“Can I talk to the girl yet?” A woman dressed in a grey business suit asked from around the white curtain that hung around Samantha’s bed.

The doctor placed his stethoscope around his neck and straightened, “I guess so, but try to not upset her too much, alright?” He informed then turned to the girl “This woman is from social services and needs you to tell her what happened. Are you alright with talking to her?” The doctor asked Samantha, “Or would you like one of the nurses to stay with you?”

Sam tensed up at the idea of Social Services wanting to talk to her. She had hear stories of children being taken away from their parents for saying the wrong thing and the thought that she could end up in an orphanage scared her more then living with her mother. She glanced up at nurse Janis and reached out for the woman’s hand, “Can you stay with me?” She asked weakly. She was not sure she wanted to be alone when woman gave whatever news she had.

“Is that alright with you, Janis?” The doctor inquired.

Janis lightly took Samantha’s hand in her’s, “I would be delighted to stay at your side.” She said to Samantha with a smile upon her face.

The doctor nodded then turned to the officer, “Try not to be too long. She is weak and lost a bit of blood. I don’t want her under too much stress alright?”

The woman nodded as opened up a briefcase and pulled out a folder, “I’ll make this quick.”

The doctor nodded again then left the room with the other nurses behind him.

Samantha’s watched the women carefully as she paced before her bed, sifted through papers in a brown leather folder she held in her hands. She appeared to be in her mid to late twenties with short brown hair neatly cut and curled outward around her neck, feathering out at the ends. Her suit was pressed without a single wrinkle in sight and she wore a tie tightly around her neck and tucked into her suit jacket. Her legs were clad in a matching pair of slacks that has been ironed so there was a crease along the front of each leg. One would have thought her as an extremely professional businesswoman if it weren’t for the way she fumbled with the papers in her folder and searched for a pen in the briefcase that threatened to spill its contents upon the floor. Her modest clumsiness only eased Samantha’s nerves ever so slightly, it was the way she smiled at the girl when she finally recovered her pen that made Sam’s heart slow in pace and relax ever so slightly. Sam could sensed no hate or anger towards her in those soft blue eyes, in fact she was almost certain that she saw them faintly twinkle as their eyes met and this caused the girl to flush lightly and glance down at her hands, which still held her Meephit.

“Hello Samantha.” The women finally greeted the girl as she sat upon a chair next to the bed, “My name is Linda Polaski and I just need to ask you a few questions.” She held her hand out towards the girl only to have it starred at in return.

Sam’s mind froze at the sight of the woman’s long fingers extended out towards her. She feared touching the woman and she knew it was irrational, but she could not help it. All she could do is stare at the hand, examining the perfectly short trimmed nail as if it were some alien object. She tried to will her hand to take the woman’s but it would not respond, it was as if the command was being blocked by something. She quickly turned away from the hand and squeezed her eyes shut against the frustrated tears that threatened to emerge.

((Samantha, are you alright?)) Star softly spoke up inside of her head.

((Have you been listening the whole time?)) Samantha inquired nervously.

((Sorry.)) Star apologized guiltily, ((I can’t help it. We are stuck together remember.))

Sam let out a sigh, ((Yeah... This is just too weird.))

((Do you want me to go away?)) Star inquired disappointedly.

Sam shook her head, ((No… no I want you to stay… I just…))

((What is wrong? Is there something I can do?)) Star offered.

Sam could feel the concern in the girl’s voice and it made her heart warm knowing someone cared about her. It was strange in the few hours since she had awaken Star had not said much of anything and yet Sam could feel her presence all around her. She had a hard time distinguishing if it was her own heart that was racing or Stars, she figured it must be her own because Star had little to fear at that moment. She was used to having people’s minds in hers and this made Sam feel insecure. She did not know what to say to the girl and at the same time did not want her to leave her side.

((I… I can’t move my arm…)) Sam finally explained, feeling both pathetic and ashamed that she could not complete a simple task as this.

((You were moving it for the doctor a moment ago.)) Star noted firmly, ((It should be fine.))

“Samantha?” The nurse waved a hand before the girl’s eyes and Sam abruptly looked up at the women, “Are you alright?”

Sam glanced around to find the two women were watching her intently and she felt a rush of heat rise up around the back of her neck, “I… I…” She stammered as she tried to find some kind of answer for the women.

((Tell them about your arm.)) Star stated calmly, ((They will understand.))

Samantha looked down at her hand, “I… I’m having troubles moving my arm.” She stated timidly.

Janis lead over the bed and took Samantha’s hand in her, then bent the fingers, “Do you feel that?”

Samantha could feel the smoothness of Janis’s fingers on her skin as she proceeded to move one finger after another, “Slightly.” She mumbled, embarrassed by the tingle that ran through her body at the woman’s touch. She was never this sensitive to touch before and abruptly her hand recoiled out of the nurse’s hand.

“Oh!” Janis blinked in surprise, “Did I hurt you?

“N… no…” Sam cradled her arm close to her chest, “It… it just jumped…”

Janis patted the girl on the shoulder, “You may find some troubles every now and then, but try not to worry about it too much. The doctor says your injuries were not as bad as they could have been.”

((See? I told you not to worry.)) Star exclaimed happily.

Sam smiled nervously, “Thanks.” She said to the nurse, ((Thanks too Star.)) she added internally.

“How badly was she injured?” Linda asked the nurse.

Samantha found herself startled by the woman’s presence. She had nearly forgot the woman was sitting beside her and spun around to face her once again, a shocked look upon her face. The woman returned Samantha’s stares with a curious gaze.

“Do you not remember me?” She inquired worriedly.

Samantha slowly nodded, she did remember the woman, however for a brief moment was not aware that the woman was there and this unsettled her immensely, “I… I’m sorry. I…”

((Don’t worry about that woman.)) Star repeated, trying to sooth the girl’s worries, ((She probably just wants to know what happen is all.))

((But what should I say?)) Samantha anxiously inquired, ((What if they want to take me away from my mother and my friends?))

((Hmmm...)) Star pondered the possibility of that outcome, ((Try not to worry so much. I’ll be here with you so don’t worry.))

((Thanks)) Samantha gave a half smile that made the woman stare at her with even more puzzlement.

“Are you alright Samantha?” She inquired, making the girl jump every so slightly.

“I...” Her eyes darted around in search for an answer to the woman’s question.

((Just tell her your head hurts.)) Star suggested.

Sam lightly touched her bandaged head and closed her eyes, “My head hurts.” She echoed.

The woman frowned and glanced at the nurse, “How badly was she hurt?” She inquired again.

“She has a severe concussions.” The nurse remarked watching Samantha carefully, “and the doctor retrieved a few fragments of glass from her forehead before stitching the wound shut, but other then that she is fine..”

Lisa turned back to Samantha, “Sam... can I call you Sam?”

Sam nodded slowly.

“Can you tell me what happened tonight?” Linda gently asked.

“I... is my mother in trouble?” Sam inquired uneasily.

Linda nervously ran a hand through her hair, “Not at the moment.” She stated, a mix of worry and unsureness covered her face, “Now she claims that she hit you by accident.”

“Where is she?” Samantha demanded, “Why isn’t she here?” Suddenly agitated by the absents of her parents, “Shouldn’t my parents be here if you are questioning me?”

Linda let out a sigh; “She can’t see you right now.” She regretfully admitted.

“Why can’t I see her?” Sam set her angry eyes on the woman, “Has she been arrested?” She may have had disagreements with her mother but she did not want her to get into trouble because of her.

“She is being questioned by an officer right now.” Lisa explained, “We are trying to piece together how you ended up laying on the front lawn with a concussion.” She flipped through her notes, “Your mother claimed that she accidentally hit you with a vase, do you remember that?”

Samantha slowly nodded, ((I’m scared Star.)) She miserably said inside her head, hoping the girl was still listening.

She could feel Star take a deep breath, ((So am I.)) Star admitted, ((I don’t know what to do to help you.))

“This is all my fault...” Sam muttered, tears forming in the corners of her eyes, “If I only stopped acting like a child then none of this would have happened.”

Nurse Janis lowered herself into a chair next to Samantha’s bed, “None of this is your fault.” She cooed, patting the girl’s hand, “What would make you think something like that?”

“If... if I’d just gone home like I was supposed to.” Sam chocked back a sob, “If I just stopped running from everything. Then none of this would have happened. I’m sixteen and... I... can’t stop myself... from... c... crying.” A dam broke inside of Samantha’s heart and tears began to steadily flow.

Janis wrapped her arms around Sam and held her lightly, “It’s alright. You are safe now.” She rubbed the girl’s back as she spoke.

“I’m sorrrryyyy....” Sam wailed into the nurse’s shoulder as an uncontrollable wave of sadness washed over her. All her life she wished to be free of her mother and now it might actually happen and it frightened her to no end. Earlier she screwed up her friendship with Tristan and now she was going to loss her family. What a lousy birthday this was turning out to be.

Janis sat upon the corner of the bed and held the girl as her body racked with sobs. She glanced up at Linda and nodded towards the door.

As if Linda understood she retreated from the room, “I’ll come back later then.” She stated as she left the room, at a loss for words.

Janis lightly stroked Samantha’s back and the girl’s tears began to slowly subside. She looked down at Samantha, who now lay with her head upon the nurse’s lap, “Are you feeling any better?” She asked softly.

Sam shook her head, “M... My head hurts.” She stated through the last of the sobs.

“Do you want me to ask the doctor for something for it?” The nurse offered.

Again Sam shook her head, “What’m I going to do?” She inquired sorrowfully, “Where am I going to stay?”

Janis petted the girl’s head, “Try not to worry about that right now. Just rest up for now.” She suggested.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 7

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006

Chapter Seven

After a time Samantha slowly pulled herself into a seated position and looked up at the nurse, “Thank you for staying with me.”

“My pleasure.” The nurse returned politely, “It is not everyday that I get to comfort a pretty girl like yourself.” She leaned in close to the girl and whispered into her ear, “There are mostly creepy old men here and I’d prefer to be comforting you then them.”

Samantha let out a soft giggle and smiled. “Can I go to the bathroom?” She inquired shyly.

The nurse nodded and pointed to the corner of the room, “It is right over there.”

Sam carefully crawled out of the bed and gingerly set a foot upon the ground, testing to see how steady her legs were, if her arm suddenly did not want to work what would she do if the same happened with her legs. The thought terrified her, never being able to run through fields anymore, never being able to ride her bike through the forest paths.

“Do you need any help?” Janis inquired, watching as the girl wobbly walked around the bed.

“N… no...” Sam replied as she used the bed to help steady herself. She found herself slightly off balance but could walk all right and let out a sigh of relief. She took a step forward to discover that her arm was still attached to something. The doctors had stripped her of most of the monitors, but she still had an IV attached to her left arm. Cautiously she reached out to grab hold of the pole and using it like a crutch she moved towards the washroom. The moment she closed the door she leaned against it and let herself sink to the ground.

((Sam?)) Star worriedly inquired, ((Are you alright?))

((I don’t know)) Samantha replied, curling her legs up close to her body, trying to keep her emotions under control, ((I’m all alone.))

((Not entirely.)) Star corrected the girl, ((I’m still with you.))

Sam shook her head ruefully, ((I still don’t even know who you are.)) Samantha noted, ((Don’t you have to sleep or something? I mean are you going to be inside of my head all the time?))

((It looks that way. Maybe it will help if I tell you more about myself. Let’s see...)) Star thought to herself for a moment, ((I just turned sixteen today. I love stuffed animals and 80's music and video games and...))

Sam let out a small laugh, ((That is not what I meant)) She remarked with an amused smile upon her face.

Star let out a sigh, ((I bet your smile is beautiful. I wish I could see it.))

Sam flushed, ((I’m far from beautiful.)) She remarked miserably.

((Let me be the judge of that.)) Star suddenly demanded, ((Go to a mirror.))

Sam’s heart began to race uncontrollably, ((You can see what I see?)) She inquired worriedly, staring down at the pale blue hospital gown that covered her upper body to mid calf.

((Only when I close my eyes.)) Star assured the girl, ((Why don’t you try it first. Close your eyes and take a look.)) She offered.

A crooked smile crossed Sam’s face, ((Really? You don’t mind?)) She inquired nervously.

Star shrugged, ((It’s not like I walk around naked all the time or something.)) Star stated with a small laugh, ((I’m just sitting in bed in my nightgown so there isn’t much for you to see, but give it a try.))

(A… Alright…)) Samantha agreed, then took a deep breath before lightly closing her eyes. For a moment she only saw darkness, then a moment later an image began to come into view. Before her she saw a long bed come into focus. It was covered in a large soft looking comforter with images of cats printed upon its surface. Under the surface of the blanket she could make out of form of legs and she saw two arms clad in a pink flannel nightgown. Slowly she began to feel the warmth of the comforter and the softness of the flannel against her skin. She took in a deep breath to catch a soft scent of flowery shampoo along with something else she could not quiet explain, however the feeling calmed Sam’s anxiety and she found her mind finally slowing down in pace.

((You smell wonderful.)) She breathed softly and suddenly she felt a heat rise up around her that she figured must have been Star blushing in embarrassment.

((It is only shampoo.)) Star nervously explained, ((I just had a bath before going to bed and my hair is still wet.)) She stated as she anxiously ran a hand through her hair and Sam could feel the cool, damp, feeling of it running through her fingers.

Sam quickly opened her eyes and shook her head, almost expecting to feel damp hair against her head, ((That was strange.)) She said as the sense of Star lingered ever so slightly before slowly fading away.

((I… I didn’t exp…expect that…)) Star admitted with a pant.

((Are you alright?)) Sam inquired worried, ((You sound out of breath.))

((I’m fine.)) Star took a long breath and let it out, ((It felt as if you were a part of me for a moment there that when you left it felt as if you were pulling me with you.))

Sam rubbed the back of her neck in embarrassment, ((I’m sorry, this is all new to me.)) Sam reminded the girl.

((This is a first for me too.)) Star explained, ((Occasionally I fall in touch with someone near me, but nothing like this. I’m almost afraid to try myself.))

((You still want to try?)) Sam squirmed into the corner of the washroom, not that she knew it was more then just seeing, but everything else as well the thought of allowing the girl further into her mind scared her.

((Don’t be scared.)) Star soothed, ((I will not hurt you, or poke around in your mind if that is what you are worried about.))

((You promise?)) Sam asked, suddenly feeling vulnerable.

((I promise.)) Star agreed with a nod of her head that Sam felt, ((So can I finally see the face of the girl I’m sharing minds with?)) She inquired interestedly.

Sam glanced up at a mirror that hung over a small sink next to a towel, ((Promise you won’t laugh?)) She asked nervously.

((Now why would I laugh?)) Star returned, ((I have a cousin that wears tones of white make up and thousands of piercing and I’ve never laughed at her, in fact I find her quiet interesting.))

Sam made a small smirk, ((I know someone like that, but that is far from what I look like… I’m just plain as hell.))

((Will you let me have my own opinion for once and show me your face?)) She demanded with a chuckle and a shake of her head, ((Are you always like this?))

((Like what?)) Sam asked curiously.

((No self esteem what so ever.)) Star bluntly stated.

Sam winced, ((Yeah… I guess that would be me…)) She stared up at the mirror again and took a hold of the edge of the sink; ((Well since you insist…)) She hauled herself to her feet and took a deep breath as she set her eyes upon the mirror. ((Take a look quickly before I change my mind.))

((Alright.))

Sam was not sure what she was waiting for when suddenly she felt something pass through her and she could sense Star within her as ever part of her body began to lightly tingle. It felt as if she was in a strong embrace and it made Sam’s heart race. She suddenly became light-headed and needed to hold onto the sink in order to keep her balance, but her hand slipped on the porcelain sink and she tumbled to the floor with a heavy thud.

((Sam? Are you alright?)) Star inquired uneasily.

((I…)) She could feel warm tears build up behind her eyes and quickly wiped them away, ((I feel dizzy…)) She explained as she tried to catch her breath.

((Inhale slowly, take long deep breathes.)) Star instructed.

Sam did as she was told and slowly her head began to clear, but her limbs felt weak and she struggled to get to a seated position again.

“Samantha!?!” Janis’s voice drifted from beyond the door, “Samantha are you alright?”

She tried to call out to the woman, but could not find her voice. She heard the woman scramble around behind the door then it slowly opened, knocking her over again.

“Samantha…Sam?!?” The nurse knelt next to Sam and looked into the girl’s eyes, “What happened?”

“I… I fell…” She said in a weak tired voice.

“Did you hit your head?” The nurse anxiously inquired.

Sam slowly shook her head as the nurse helped her to her feet and over to the bed.

“You should rest up and don’t try so hard.” The nurse urged as she helped the girl back into bed, “If you need anything just call for me with that button.” She explained as she handed a small square devise to the girl, “It operates the bed as well so if you don’t feel comfortable you can adjust it.”

Sam smiled at the nurse, “Thank you.”

Janis ran her hand across the girl’s cheek and returned the smile, “Anytime, now you rest up and I’ll be right down the hall if you need me.”

Sam slowly nodded as she watched the nurse slowly leave the room.

((Star?)) Sam reached out with her mind, afraid that she might have lost her friend.

((I’m right here.)) Star replied tensely and Sam was almost certain she could sense that the girl has been crying a moment ago, ((A… are you alright?))

((What happened?)) Sam inquired, ((I thought I almost lost you.))

((So did I…I’m sorry.)) Star apologized, ((That was my fault. I should have warned you about that. I assumed you knew that could happen when you get too close to an extreme emotional source or have something pass through your body.))

((This is all new too me.)) Sam stated weakly, ((Until today I’d only had small things happen with animals and sometimes knew when it rained.))

((I’m sorry.)) Star repeated woefully.

Sam was certain this time that she tasted tears upon her lips and a vice upon her heart, ((Are you crying?))

((I’m sorry…)) Star sniffled, ((I finally find a friend and I nearly kill her. I’m so stupid.))

((You consider me a friend?)) Sam inquired perplexedly, ((You barely know me.))

((Do you know how hard it is to find friends when everyone considers you a freak.)) Star inquired miserably, ((My mom was forced to move to a new town because me and I don’t know anyone in this town. Just when I find another kindred spirit I mess up completely.))

Sam shook her head, ((You did not mess up. You… did you call me a “Kindred Spirit”))

Star flushed, ((Well, yeah… that is what you are… aren’t you? I’ve never met another psychic soul like yours and it feels like we were destine to meet… I mean… that is…)) Star became increasingly flustered with every other word, ((Geez, you must think I’m stupid.))

Sam smiled, ((It does feel that way doesn’t it.)) She agreed. ((I can’t explain it, but I am glad we met. I don’t know how I would have handled today without you.))

Star let out a sigh of relief, ((Glad to be of help.))

Sam let out a yawn and glanced around herself, ((I wish I had my journal because I would love to write all this down. It has been one hell of a day.)) She stated sleepily, ((Trish would never believe it if I told her.))

((Who is Trish?)) Star asked, trying to make conversation.

((A friend… or I hope she is still my friend after the way I acted today.)) Sam said miserably as she recalled the events before ending up in the hospital and pulled the pillow around her head, ((God, I’m such an idiot.))

((It can’t be that bad.)) Star insisted, ((What happened?))

Sam let go of the pillow and stared up at the ceiling overhead, square tiles of dry wall formed the ceiling and there was a long florescent lamp over her head that illuminated her bed with its soft glow. She stared at the light as she tried to consider how to word what had happened to her earlier, “It was all because of that stupid toy and that device.” She suddenly recalled the Meephit and then sat up to find the toy lying upon the blankets to her side. Gingerly she picked up the stuffed toy and turned it over in her hands. The psychic calculator that lived within its chest was no longer there and then she remembered it was in her back pocket when she fell. She began searching for her clothes to find the gadget laying upon the night table to her left, its display blinking as if it were trying to get her attention.

((What the hell?)) Sam picked up the toy to find still blinked the same message from when she was hit upon the head, ((How did this thing know I was in danger?)) She asked curiously.

((What thing?)) Star inquired curiously, ((What are you talking about?))

((That Meephit. Before my mother hit me it started beeping away and told me to run away.)) She explained in a bewildered tone.

((That toy that my mother got me when I met you?)) Star inquired, ((I felt there was something strange about it, but I don’t believe it can really tell the future.))

Sam rubbed her head, ((I didn’t believe it either, but when I asked it if someone loved me it told me that my best friend did.))

((It did?)) Star puzzled over this idea, ((Did it use her name?))

Sam shook her head, ((No, but it said that she was waiting upstairs and knew that I was going to have dinner with her.))

((So what did you do?))

Sam let out a deep sigh, ((I ran…))

((Why? Are you afraid of lesbians?)) Star inquired.

Sam could sense an edge to the girl’s voice and a tension building up inside of her. ((N… no…)) Sam shook her head and rubbed at her eyes, ((I have no problem with her being gay… I just…)) Her thoughts began to tremble as she tried to explain what it was that she feared more then anything else.

((What is it? You can tell me.)) Star insisted, ((I won’t make fun of you. I sort of know how you feel… I fell in love with my best friend and it freaked me out. I could not get her out of my mind and that scared me more then this psychic stuff.))

Sam became startled by what she was hearing, “You like girls” She exclaimed before realizing she was speaking aloud.

A nurse peeked through the window of the room and opened the door, “Is everything alright in here?” The woman inquired.

Sam nodded, “I’m sorry… I was just…” She glanced around herself till her eyes feel upon the toad and held it up, “I was just talking to my toad is all.” She explained sheepishly.

“Oh… Alright…” The nurse gave her a peculiar look before slipping back out of the room and let the door softly close behind her.

Sam dropped her head in her hands, ((She is going to think I’m a child.)) Sam stated dismally. She was answered with only silence, ((Star… Are you there?)) She held a hand close to her chest as she realized how stupid she was for reacting the way she did. Somewhere she could feel Star’s heart beating wildly and the sensation of intense fear.

((Star… I’m sorry… I…)) Sam let out a deep sigh and ran a hand over her face, ((I’m so stupid.)) Now she could feel her own heart racing and tears threatened to burst forth from her eyes yet again, ((Please don’t leave me… I’m sorry… I… I’m scared Star…)) She stammered as her thoughts tumbled over itself, ((I… I… think I l… love Trish and it scares the hell out of me.)) She finally admitted and with this admittance a steady flow of words began to uncontrollably tumble from her lips, ((I love the feeling of her close to me and the way she plays with my feet, I love the way she comforts me when I’m upset and how she always seems to know when I need a hug. I’m so used to being hated that I’m scared of the thought that someone could love someone like me. I’m afraid to loss her and I don’t know what to do.)) She buried her face into the pillow and let out a tired sob.

Sam suddenly felt Star’s warmth wash over her and she imagined the girl curled up behind her, arms wrapped around her body and holding her tightly.

((You don’t have to be afraid anymore.)) Star soothed, ((I’m here for you and I will never leave your side.))

((But what if our link is broken.)) Sam worried, ((Then what will I do.))

((Then I’ll come searching for you in person.)) Star insisted, ((I will not stop until I find you.))

((But we could me far apart.)) Sam remarked, ((I could be in another country for all we know.))

Sam could feel Star smile, ((We are much closer then you think.))

((How can you be certain?)) Sam worried.

((Fine, where do you live?)) Star inquired.

((Whetshones.)) Sam answered, scared that this would only verify her worries.

((WHETSHONES!?!)) Star exclaimed in surprised, ((Oh gee! This is great! I’ve been living here since I was little. Maybe I’ll see you in the morning. What hospital are you staying at?))

((Ummm… Uhhh…)) Sam found herself shocked by this sudden turn of events. The possibility that Star could visit her in the morning both excited and scared her. She glanced down upon the plastic bracelet that hung around her wrist to find the hospital’s name printed along with her other information, ((St. Michelle’s…))

((I know where that is. I’ll come to see you.)) Star insisted with such excitement that even Sam could feel the rush, ((You get some sleep and I’ll see you soon.))

((A… alright…)) Sam agreed, but feared she would never be able to sleep now.

((Sam…)) Star’s voice rose up in Sam’s head after a few moments of silence, ((I’m glad we met.))

((So am I.)) Sam awaited another reply, but had a feeling that Star had fallen fast asleep for she could feel a relaxing sensation fill her mind and heart. She wondered if this would be how she spends the rest of her life, forever sharing her heart and soul with another. Part of her found the idea comforting, never to be alone again, but she worried that soon she would get on Star’s nerves and the girl would not want to be around her any longer. She tried to force those thoughts from her mind and get some sleep, even if it was restless.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 8

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Eight

Star awoke the next morning with the rising of the sun, which immediately told her that it was somewhere around six in the morning. A glace at the black hands of a silver alarm clock next to her bed that affirmed her assumption and gave her the more accurate time of six-thirty.

With a leisurely stretch she pulled off the blankets and swung her feet over the edge of the bed, which was still too big for her and she found her feet floated a good few centimetres off the ground when she sat upon its edge. Carefully she reached a foot down to pick up a soft purple slipper with the tip of her toe and place it on her foot before retrieving the other in a similar manner. Before considering getting out of bed she took a deep breath and searched internally for any signs of Samantha. To her relief she could still feel the girl’s presence near her. Sam was deep asleep, lost within some kind of dream. A sensation of restlessness and mild sense of tension coming from the girl and she figured that Sam must be having a nightmare of sorts. For a brief second she considered closing her eyes to find out if she could see Sam’s dreams but quickly vanquished the thought, not wanting to intrude upon the girl’s inner thoughts. It was one thing to be linked emotionally, but it would be another to walk through someone’s dreams. She decided that if Sam’s emotions became more agitated to the point of fear or despair she would wake her up, but until they she would allow Sam to sleep and surprise her with a visit.

Quickly she hopped out of her bed, careful not to make a sound, not wanting to awaken her mother. Although it was Sunday she intended to allow her mother to sleep a little longer. Her mother worked long nights to support them and usually did not get up until mid afternoon, about the time that Star would be arriving home from school, so Star had learned to quietly go about her morning routine without disturbing her mother. Seeing as today was her birthday she also knew that her mom would have something planned for later in the evening, a special mother/daughter time with a few movies and maybe some pizza, so she was content with having a quiet morning alone.

In a silent haste she moved about her room, searching for what to wear for her morning journey. She was sure visiting hours did not start for some time yet, but that gave her time to find Samantha’s room and maybe even visit the gift shop for a moment to get her something small. She then recalled that they both shared the same birth date and her mind filled with many anxious worries. She knew very little about the girl and yet she wanted to get her the perfect gift. She chewed on her lower lip as she stared at the many dresses in her closet and contemplated what to wear. Her heart raced as she picked through the many outfits. She tried to calm it down, reminding herself that Sam already had a girlfriend, but that did not seem the help matters much. The fact that Sam did in fact have an interest in girls meant that there was a slim chance for her to get close to the girl. Sam had already said that she had not yet confessed her feelings to the girl she loves so there was still a chance.

She halted abruptly, her hand upon a black dress with lace trim. What had she been thinking? Was she actually considering stealing Sam’s heart before it could be given away? A wave of guilt circled in the pit of her stomach and she suddenly felt miserable. Was she this desperately lonely? This was not like her at all, she should be glad to just have a friend so what was wrong with her? She nodded firmly to herself, she would settle with just being friends, after all no one really knew what the future would bring for them, not even her psychic powers could tell her that. At this moment Samantha was in need of a kind shoulder and not more complications. Star decided it would be best to lock her own feelings away for now and wait to see what happens in the weeks ahead. For all she knew Samantha would find her weird and not wish to have anything to do with her after the days end. This thought made Star feel all the more miserable and she nervously tucked her long black hair behind her ear, causing her to catch a glimpse of herself in the mirror over her dresser.

Her hair hung in long strains over her shoulders and around her face. The hair she had only recently tucked behind her ear had already fallen back in her face, obscuring her soft pale face from the world. Crystal blue eyes shone out from behind a veil of hair at her reflection and she hesitantly pushed her hair off to the side again, allowing half her face to be visible again.

‘You are beautiful’ She heard Samantha’s words ring out in her mind and they made her flush. Sam thought she was beautiful, all her life she had only heard those words from her mother. Her father, however, felt she was a monster, a demon child that should be vanquished from the world. She frowned at the thought of her father and shook the worries from her mind, he was long gone and she should not worry herself about him any longer. Today she was sixteen; she could get a learner’s permit now and was legally able to live on her own, if she truly wanted too, which she didn’t. She was a highschooler now and that meant a chance at a new life for her, or at least she hoped, and Samantha’s appearance in her life proved it. She had to leave the past behind her and get on with her life and at this moment Sam needed her so she planned to be there for the girl, no matter what.

With a new sense of belonging in the world Star pulled a long black dress from her closet and held it up to her body. The dress was fancier then her usually attire of plain dark skirts and t-shirts. The hem was ruffled with several rows of black lace along the trim. The sleeves were crafted of the same lace while the body was a shimmering silk that felt good against her skin. It was a dress her mother had bought her for her birthday last year and she had yet to find the right occasion to wear it, until now that is. It felt too pretty for her to wear and yet, on that day, she felt it was perfect. She carefully placed the dress across her bed and proceeded to pull off her nightgown then gather the rest of her clothes together, a pair of black nylons and a small black lace chocker with a tiny silver star sown on the middle, another gift from her mother. Then she turned to the few shoes that lay at the bottom of her closet and stopped. Among the shoes a pair of shiny leather Mary Jane’s leapt to Star’s attention. A cousin of her’s had given her the Mary Jane’s thinking that they would suit Star. Since then they stayed in the back of the closet, awaiting their chance to shine. She knelt down and pulled the shoes out from under a pair of runners and wiped off some of the dust that had built up upon their surface. The way the morning’s sunlight shone off the shoes brought a smile to her face and she quickly began to get dressed, excited about the day ahead.

Her hand touched the doorknob to her room and she abruptly stopped. She felt something watching her and she cautiously turned around to see whom it could be. Sitting upon her nightstand, staring at her with its big round eyes was her birthday gift. The strange toad that Samantha had mentioned also having. Something about the toy drew her across the room and she picked it up from the table. She could feel a dull tingling feeling in the tips of her fingers and a strange sensation fill her heart. Could this small toy really be her connection to Sam? She did not know, but part of her worried that if she left the toy behind she might loss that connection. Quickly she grabbed a small handbag off the closet knob and stuffed the creature inside before slinging the strap over her head and heading out the door. 

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 9

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Nine

Tristan awoke that morning with a groan, her entire body ached everywhere and her head hurt. The look on Samantha’s face when she left worried her intensely and she tried to call her friend several times throughout the night, but got no answer. She wished she knew what happed to her friend and turned to her Meephit for the answers. She recalled clearly the questions she asked the little devise late that night and the answers it gave.

“Why did Sam leave?” She typed.

“She is afraid.” It answered.

“Afraid of what?”

“Love.”

Those words caused her to shake uncontrollably and she had troubles willing her hands to type the next question.

“Who’s love?” She swallowed hard as she awaited the answer and prayed it was not what she already suspected.

“Yours.”

The sight of those words caused a tear to break free and roll down her cheek. Somehow Sam had figured out her worst secret and she’d run away. Trish curled up in her bed and buried her face in her pillow as a pained howl emitted from deep inside of her chest. Trisha had noticed that she was starting to have feelings for her best friend back when they were twelve. While all the other girls were talking about boy bands her mind was filled with thoughts of Samantha. On more then one occasion she found herself fight with the urge to reach out and stroke the girl’s hair and felt disgusting whenever the urge arose to kiss her arose. After every sleep over Trish would find herself hugging the pillow Sam had used and she would cry as she breathed in her friend’s scent. She knew deep inside that there was no chance in hell that Sam would feel the same for her and feared that when she discovered her secret that would be the end of their friendship forever. So she content herself with just being near her friend, hugging her when she needed it and not allowing herself to give in to her sexual desires. Yet all of that effort was for nothing, somehow Sam had figured it out and now she was gone forever.

Trisha lay in her bed staring up at the ceiling, allowing the sorrow to engulf her soul, when she heard the phone ring and her mother’s muffled voice drift through the floorboards. The call was short and soon after she heard her mother’s footfalls as she descended the stairs to the basement and approached Trish’s room, knocking lightly upon her door.

“Trisha dear?” Her mother’s voice softly called out from behind the door, “Are you awake?”

“Yeah…” Trish half heartedly answered as she rolled over in her bed, wrapping her arms around a pillow, and put her back to the door so her mother would not see the tired look upon her face.

The door squeaked slightly as it opened and her mother entered the room, seating herself at the corner of the bed, “Sweetie…” She lightly set her hand upon her daughter’s back.

Trish knew something terrible must have happened for her mother to act this way. The last time she stat upon the corner of her bed and pet her like this was when her dog died several years ago. This thought filled Trish’s heart with dread and she slowly turned to face her mother, unsure if she really wanted to hear the news, “Something’s wrong isn’t it.” Trish bluntly asked, sitting up to gaze at her mother.

Her mother slowly nodded, avoiding her daughter’s searching stares, “Something happened to… to Samantha last night.”

Trish clenched the pillow tight in her arms, hearing Sam’s name caused her heart to ache and her mouth to become suddenly dry, “I… is she alright?” She nervously inquired.

Again the woman nodded, “She is alright, but they are going to have to call off her birthday party.”

“What happened?” Trish could feel herself becoming more anxious by the minute, “Was she hurt? Did a car hit her? What?”

“I’m not sure all the details.” Her mother replied, “But she is in the hospital and will have to stay there for a day or two.”

Trish’s heart suddenly dropped to her stomach, “H… Hospital!?! Wha… how… when???” Horrifying images began to fill her mind, thoughts of her friend lying in the middle of the street battered and broken with her bicycle lying next to her in a twisted heap.

Her mother set her hand upon her shoulder, “She is fine, just hit her head. Her mother said it was an accident and that the doctors just want to keep an eye on her so they can’t have the birthday party. I know you were looking forward to today, but you can have a sleepover when she get’s out of the hospital.”

“I want to go see her.” Trish exclaimed as she tore the blankets from around her legs and jumped out of bed, straightening her nightshirt from exposing her underwear to her mother and rushed to her dresser to pull out some clothes.

“Her mother said she needed to get some rest.” Trish’s mother calmly stated, “Maybe we should go tomorrow.”

Trish spun around to set her determined eyes upon her mother’s; “I want to see her now. You know Sam and she wouldn’t want to be alone on her birthday. She was looking forward to this day more then you would believe. I bet her mother threatened to hold back her birthday again, like she always does, and if she doesn’t have one then it is just like her mother has won and I can’t allow that.” Plus she needed to see her friend again to confirm if they were still friends or not. She needed to hear it from Sam, if she did not wish to see Trish again then she would learn to deal with the loss, but she needed to hear it from her friend’s own lips and this might be her only chance.

Knowing her daughter’s stubbornness when she has made up her mind she gave in to her child’s wishes, “Alright, let me make some breakfast and get dressed and then we will go see her.”

“We need to go now.” Trish demanded as she pulled out a t-shirt from the drawer.

Her mother shook her head in disbelief and knelt next to her daughter, setting both of her hands upon the girl’s shoulders, “Trisha calm down. I know how you feel about Sam, I’ve known for years that you love her and I know how badly you want to see her, but visiting hours are not until ten so slow down a bit, okay?” She begged.

Trish was startled by her mother’s words, “Y… you knew…” She was not sure she had heard her mother correctly and needed to hear it again.

Her mother pulled her over to the bed; sitting upon the edge again, and then looked her daughter directly in the eye. There was no anger in her mother’s eyes, only sad concern, “Dear, I’ve known for years that you have feelings for Sam. A mother cannot ignore her daughters tears as her friend leaves. I don’t know what happened last night, but I would be a fool to not see the pain in your eyes when she left last night and I know you want to run to her, but try not to rush things. I don’t care if you are gay or not, I just want you to be happy and for you to come to me when you need someone to talk to. I may only be your mother, but I want to be there to help you.”

Tears flowed down Trisha’s cheeks steadily now and she reached up to wipe them away with the palm of her hand, “I… I’m sorry… I don’t… don’t want to loss her…” A tired sob wrenched from her throat and her mother pulled her into her arms.

“It’s alright dear.” She soothingly rubbed the girl’s back, “I’m sure Sam is alright and that whatever happened last night she will not leave you. You two have been friends for so long that I could not see the two of you apart. We’ll visit her after breakfast alright?”  She assured the girl.

Trish let out a trembled sigh as she sniffled back the tears, ashamed that she had broken down in front of her mother. She knew her mother was correct, but she wanted to be at Sam’s side that minute, “A… alright… I’m sorry…” She agreed, wiping her nose with the back of her hand.

Her mother smiled and hugged her daughter tightly, “I’ll make you some eggs and bacon then, does that sound alright to you?”

Trish simply nodded, she was not sure she could stomach food at that moment for her insides felt like they were in knots, but she would try to appease her mother’s wishes as best she could. After her mother left the room she slowly pulled off her nightshirt and tossed it to the ground before pulling on a pair of jeans and a shirt. She was fixing her hair in the mirror above her dresser when her mother called down to her.

“Trisha? Could you come up here for a moment?” She said with a hint of concern upon her words.

“Coming!” Trish called back, and then ran up the stairs and into the kitchen. She was surprised to find her mother not in the kitchen as she expected. The woman was standing in the living room, staring out the large picture window out at the front of the house. Trish curiously stepped into the room and craned her neck to see what it was her mother was looking at.

“What is it Mom?” She asked eager to know what her mother was staring at.

Her mother suddenly turned, almost as if she were startled by her daughter’s presence, “Oh! I did not see you there.” She said in surprise, and then pointed out the window at something across the street, “There is a girl standing out there and I think she is watching our house. I noticed her when I came down to talk to you and didn’t think anything of it, but there she still is and she doesn’t seem to be moving.”

Trish peered out the window, squinting against the glare of the morning sun, to see what her mother was talking about and was startled by what she saw. Just as her mother had said there stood a teenaged girl dressed all in black and it appeared that she was staring right back at them. At first Trish did not recognise who she was looking at when her eyes finally came into focus and she was even more stunned by her the realization as to who was standing before her.

“That’s Elizabeth…” She breathed. Elizabeth had not visited her house before and she was certain she had not told the girl her address so there was no way the girl could have found her home and yet there she was. A long black cloak draped over her body, floating slightly over the ground, revealing black leather docs covering her feet, her pink bangs flowing out from under the folds of the hood as the wind tossed it around her painted face, black makeup encircling her eyes and lipstick and the stud in her nose glistening in the sun. Trish was almost certain she could see the tip of what Trish suspected must have been an umbrella of sorts, but the sky was clear so she could not figure why the girl would bring a umbrella with her, but this was Beth after all so she didn’t think twice about it.

“Is she a friend of yours?” Trish’s mother asked curious, transfixed by the strange girl, “Maybe she would be interested in having breakfast with us.” She politely offered. 

Trish stared up at her mother in disbelief. First her mother is accepting of her being gay and now she wants to invite Beth into her home. The prospect of Beth being in her home did not sit well with her, more so as she recalled how friendly she was with Sam the other day, but she couldn’t just leave the girl standing out there in the cold September wind. “I guess I’d better see what she wants.” She stated with a reluctant sigh and picked up her shoes next to the front door.

“Invite her in if you like.” Her mother persisted, “It is not often that I meet your other school friend and she seems like a nice girl.”

‘She is weird and creepy.’ Trish wanted to say, but kept her mouth shut as she opened the door and headed outside. She did not take her eyes off Beth as she travelled across the driveway and across the street, “Morning Beth, What’s up?” She greeted with a false smile upon her face.

“You do not need to pretend you like me.” Beth said calmly, “I know you don’t like me, even hate me perhaps, so please refrain from the façade of happiness and remove that mask you wear when you are around your friends, for I don’t care for it.”

Trish clenched her fists in anger, “Why you little…Freak!” She stormed up to the girl, her smile quickly replaced with a snarl, “You have the nerve to suddenly appear in front of my house then act all pompous like that. You wiggle your way into my group of friends and next I find you getting close to Sam. What is with you girl? What are you trying to prove being here? Sam is mine and I want you to stay away from her.” 

Beth slowly turned to face Trish, her green eyes staring out from beneath her bangs, “Are you finished?” She inquired, unaffected by the girl’s attacks, “I’m not interested in Samantha the way you are.” She stated firmly.

Trish stopped dead in her tracks and blinked in disbelief, “Your not? Then what was with you and her the other day?” She asked curiously.

“Since I bumped into her during the first day of school I got a strong feeling she was in trouble.” Beth explained simply, “Last night I found myself wandering the streets, in search of something, but not sure what. I felt Sam was in great danger, but could not focus on what that danger was and now I feel I’m too late. Before long I found myself standing outside of your house.”

Trish starred at the girl, puzzling over the girl’s words, “You have been following Sam around because you felt she was in danger?”

Elizabeth nodded, “I could feel the anxiety coming from your house the past while and thought maybe you had news about what happened to Samantha.”

Trish slowly nodded, “There was an accident and she is in the hospital.”

Worry crossed Elizabeth’s face, “The hospital!?! What happened to her?”

This was the first time since Trish met the girl that she saw her show any emotion and made her realize that Beth was just like everyone else, that she just conceals her emotions a little too well. She glanced at her house to see her mother walk over to the window and wave to them.

“Listen…” Trish let out a deep sigh and pushed all her disgruntled feelings for Elizabeth off to the side, “If you like you can come with us to the hospital to visit Sam.” She offered.

Elizabeth blinked as if she could not believe she was hearing the offer correctly, “C… Can I really come with you?” She inquired uneasily.

Trish smiled, this time genuinely, and held out a hand to the girl, “My mother is making breakfast and invited you to come join us if you like. We can visit Sam afterwards and together we can find out what happened last night.”

Reluctantly Elizabeth’s hand slipped out from under her cloak and took Trish’s hand. Trish was surprised to find it was chilled and she began to wonder how long the girl had been standing out in the cold air. Deciding to leave the questions for later she gently pulled Elizabeth across the road and back to her home. 

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 10

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Ten 

Samantha’s night was plagued with many dreams, most of which she forgot before her eyes opened the next day, however one lingered as she lay still in her bed, trying hard to shake the feeling from her mind. In the dream she had been all-alone in a dark room, she searched the tall black walls for a door or window, but found none. After a time she settled into the corner of the room with the realization that she would never see any of her friends or family again. The loneliness rooted deep within her chest and made it hard to breathe and before long she curled up in a ball wishing for the ground to open up beneath her and swallow her up. Anything would be better then the emptiness that filled her heart and mind. As she woke up she could feel the grip of loneliness squeezing tightly around her heart, forcing tiny tears out of her eyes to drop upon the pillow under her head.

The door opened and she turned in her bed to watch as a nurse entered the room and smiled at her, “Good to see you’re awake. Would you like some breakfast?” She asked as she wheeled a cart into the room.

Samantha nodded as she wiped the remainder of her tears away. The sight of the trays of food made her stomach rumble loud enough to be heard by the nurse and Sam shrank under her blankets in embarrassment.

The nurse only laughed, “It’s good to see you have your appetite.” She stated with a broad smile as she set a tray upon a swivelling table arm next to her bed and pushed it in front of the girl, lowering the table until it was the correct height for the child, “You’re a very popular girl did you know? You have a group of friends awaiting to see you.”

Samantha flushed, “Really?” She recalled Star’s promise to visit first thing in the morning and excitement washed some of the loneliness away, “Are they allowed to visit me?” She inquired, curiously lifting the lid off her tray to find a plate of scrambled eggs and a plastic cup of orange juice.

The nurse glanced at her watch to see it was fifteen to ten, “Well, visiting hours are not supposed to start until ten, but I think we can bend the rules a little this once, I heard it was your birthday today after all. Happy Birthday.”

Samantha simply nodded as she fiddled with the hem of the blanket.

“So how old are you today then?” The nurse inquired as she fixed Sam’s pillows so she could sit up straight while eating.

“Sixteen.” She answered shyly.

“You are practically an adult then.” She pulled a sheet of paper out from off the side of the food tray and handed it to Sam, “Then I guess you are old enough to choose what you want for lunch and dinner later. Just check off the boxes next to the meals and leave it on your tray after you are done eating alright?”

Samantha took the paper and skimmed it while nodding, “A… alright.”

The nurse swung the cart of trays around and started out the door, “I’ll tell your friends that you are awake and awaiting their arrival.”

“Th.. thank you…” Sam stammered, she did not think she could be more excited to see her friends in her life. She began to wonder who came to visit her when her mind came to Trisha’s long face from the night before and she felt a lump rise up in her throat. She still did not know what she was going to say to the girl and worry began to weave its way through her mind.

((Sam?)) Star’s voice cut through her worries and made her smile.

((Star?!? You are still there.)) Part of her expected to wake up and find that everything was just a dream, a produce of her concussion.

((Yep, I’m in the hospital right now, but don’t know what room you’re in.)) She explained sheepishly, ((I tried to asked at the front desk, but suddenly realized that I did not know your last name either so have been sitting down here waiting for you to wake up.))

Samantha blushed, ((Have you been waiting long?)) She inquired uneasily.

Star shook her head, ((Maybe a half an hour or so, but no worries.))

((I… I’m sorry…)) Samantha felt flustered at the idea of a girl waiting a half an hour for her, a girl that she had not actually met in person for that matter.

((What room are you in?)) Star inquired curiously.

Sam glanced around the room and suddenly realized that she was not sure where she was in the hospital when her eyes fell on the paper that the nurse had just handed her. Upon the top, typed in large numbers, was her room number, ((I’m in 403)) She read off.

((Alright. I’m on the elevator right now so I’ll see you in a few.) She explained excitedly.

((All… alright…)) Sam felt herself becoming more nervous with every passing minute. She fidgeted in her bed as she reached up to fix her hair, only to be reminded that her head was in bandages. She stared down at her hospital gown and longed to have some real clothes to wear, but there was little she could do about her appearance at that moment and this only made her anxiety become all the worse.

((Will you calm down.)) Star said with a small giggle, ((I can feel you squirming about in my head and it tickles.))

Sam froze in place, she had forgotten that they were linked emotionally as well as with their thoughts, ((I… I can’t help it… We have never met before and I look like a mess.)) She explained.

((I’m sure you look fine.)) Star insisted, ((The elevator has stopped. I’ll tell you in person how you look in a few.))

Samantha bit at the inside of her lips and she prepared for her visitor. She noticed the door to her room began to move and felt herself hold her breath. She has never been so nervous in her life and she felt the anxiety was going to kill her. The door finally opened fully and she was surprised as Lisa bounced into the room.

“SAM!!!” Lisa rushed across the room and flung her arms around the girl’s neck, giving her a tight hug, but quickly backed up, “I’m sorry, did I hurt you?” She stared at the bandaged on Sam’s head, “What happened to you?”

“I… I’m fine…” Sam stammered in disbelief, “What are you doing here?” She inquired, peering around the girl to see where Star had got to, only to find Trish and Elizabeth standing in the doorway, with Trisha’s mother standing close beside them, “Trish? Beth?!? How… wha?” She blinked from one girl to another in stunned bewilderment.

“Your mother called us to tell us your birthday party was called off.” Lisa bubbled, “Happy Birthday, by the way.” She exclaimed happily and continued talking, “I called up Trish to find out what was the deal and she told me you were in the hospital so I decided to come see you to discover that Trish and Beth decided to do the same.” She explained in a single breath and turned to the group waiting at the door, “While I expected to find Trish here I was surprised to find out that Beth came with Trish and her mom.”

Sam was equally surprised, “Beth came with Trish?” She inquired in confusion.

“She sort of appeared at my place this morning.” Trish explained simply, giving Sam an awkward smile. Sam could feel the apprehensiveness coming off of Trish like waves; she got a feeling that the girl wanted to run over to her side but was distancing herself for the time being.

Beth took a tentative step forward and gave Sam a small smile, “Good morning Samantha and Happy birthday.” She said with an intense amount of nervousness and Sam could sense that the girl was struggling to keep her own emotions at bay. Sam had always thought that Beth was completely in control of her emotional state and yet as she watched the girl she could feel the anxiety that surrounded the girl’s every being.

“Thanks.” Sam rubbed at the sides of her head as she tried to keep her own emotions under control as she became bombarded by her friends’ emotions at the same time. Meanwhile she worried internally about where Star could have gone.

****

Star rushed down the fourth floor hall to the door marked 403 and pushed on the door. To her surprise the door was locked tight and the lights inside were dark. She glanced up and down the hall in confusing. Sam did say 403 didn’t she?

((S… Sam?)) She nervously called out to the girl inside of her mind.

((Star? Where are you?)) She asked with a smile upon her voice.

The happiness in Sam’s tone made Star smile slightly, ((I’m glad to hear you are doing better.))

((I’m not sure if better is the right word.)) Sam stated uneasily, ((I can feel the emotions from people around me, but only the negative ones and it isn’t making things easy, but having my friends here helps.))

((Focus on me and you should be all right. Just remember others emotions can’t hurt you.)) She explained. ((Now I seem to be lost. Are you sure your room is 403?))

((What room am I in?)) Star heard Sam ask someone inside of head.

((403)) An unfamiliar voice replied.

((403)) Sam repeated to Star, ((Why? Where are you?))

Star stared at the number on the door in confusion. They stood there in deep black numbers reading 403 and it felt to Star as if they were mocking her. Something was wrong and she felt it deep inside of her heart. Suddenly a hand fell upon her shoulder and Star jumped, startled by the presence of someone next to her. When she looked up she found a young nurse watching her.

“Are you alright Miss?” The nurse asked, “Are you lost?” She said in a vaguely familiar voice that Star could not quite place.

Star glanced up at the door and back to the nurse, “Was a girl staying here not long ago?”

The nurse blinked in confusion, “The last patient that stayed in that room was an elderly man. Who is it you are looking for, maybe I can help you find them?”

“Her name is Samantha…” She became aware that she still did not know Sam’s last name and froze, ((Sam, what is your last name?))

((McClellan, why?)) Sam answered curiously.

“McClellan.” Star repeated to the nurse.

The nurse started at the girl in confusion, “McClellan…?”

****

“Sam, are you alright?” Trish asked, taking a few cautious steps into the room, watching the strange mix of emotions that shifted over her friends face, “Sam?” It was as if her friend was suddenly not aware of her presence and was now in another world. She began to reach out to touch Sam when Beth stopped her and shook her head. Something in the girl’s eyes told her that maybe following Beth’s lead was the right idea, however Lisa had other plans.

“Sam!! What is wrong!?!” Lisa took her friend by the shoulders and shook her.

Trish leapt at Lisa, “Lisa stop it!” She explained as she pulled the girl away.

Sam abruptly snapped out of her daze and stared at the girls around her, “I… I’m sorry…” She wiped at her face nervously, her eyes darting around the room as if thinking deeply about something, “I… I…” again she became lost in her thoughts, leaving her friends to just watch her sitting in her bed.

****

((Star? Star what is wrong?))

((I’m an idiot is what is wrong.)) She explained dismally, ((I should have known, things were too good to be real. I forgot to think with my head and not my heart, I’m such an idiot.))

((What happened?)) Sam inquired worried, even more anxious about the idea of not seeing her friend. ((Aren’t you coming?))

((I can’t come.)) Star replied miserably, ((I’m sorry I got your hopes up, but I shouldn’t have come here in the first place.))

((Why not?)) Sam asked, unsettled by this new turn of events, ((I was really looking forward to seeing you.))

Star let out a sigh, ((So was I… but it can’t happen…))

((Why not?)) Sam pleaded, ((I don’t understand.))

((What date is it?)) Star suddenly asked.

((The Date? What does that have to do with anything?))

((Just tell me. What date is it right now?)) She repeated.

((Sept 18th, Why?))

((The year?))

((95’, what is going on?))

Star took another deep breath, ((I should have known.))

((What is wrong?))

((Sam… I’m exactly one year in the future. That is why I can’t see you.)) She explained with as much calm as she could muster. ((You are not in the hospital in my time. That is why I can’t see you; I don’t even know where you are right now.))

Sam shook her head in dismay, ((H… how could something like this happen? It’s impossible.))

((So is the idea that two girls could have their every thoughts linked when they are miles apart.)) Star stated. She was keeping her voice as steady as she could, but Sam could feel that Star was as upset about this situation as she was, ((Listen… Enjoy your birthday… and your friends… I… I have to go…))

((Where are you going?)) Sam asked, feeling that same loneliness from her dream seep its way back into her chest, ((You can’t just leave me. We are linked together after all aren’t we?))

Star nodded, ((Probably forever, but right now I need a moment so don’t be surprised if you don’t hear me reply for a bit. I’m still here I just need to think.))

((A… Alright… You sure you are not leaving me?)) Sam inquired, hearing the heart-break in her own voice, but with the memory of that nightmare still fresh in her mind the idea of losing Star seemed to be becoming a strong reality with every passing second.

((I’d never leave a psychic friend.) Star stated with a weak smile, ((They are hard to come by and I have no plans to lose you now that I have you.))

Sam let out a sigh of relief, ((I hope to hear from you soon.))

((I’ll get back to you when my head is a little clearer.)) Star promised, ((Spend some time with your friend and try telling your girl how you feel about her.))

Sam flushed lightly, ((She is not my “Girl”.))

((Well she could be if you give it half a chance.)) Star suggested, ((If you need me you know where to find me.))

((Take care…))

*****

Sam wiped at the tears the built up around her eyes and looked around to find her friends intently watching her. She had forgotten that they were even there and felt ashamed of herself for ignoring them, “I… I’m sorry…” She rubbed at the back of her neck in embarrassment and gave them a nervous smile.

Trish finally let go of Lisa and stepped up to the side of Sam’s bed and set a hand upon the bed, “A… are you alright?” She asked, worry laced heavily over her face.

Sam thought for a moment then nodded, “I’ll be aright… I think…” The corner of her mouth twitched a couple of times and she bit at her bottom lip, “I… I’m sorry I ran off on you last night.” She apologized, trying to change the subject.

Trish flushed and tried to hold back her own tears, “I’m just glad you are alright. I was so worried about you all night.”

Sam nervously glanced down at Trish’s hand and pondered placing her hand atop the girl’s then decided against it, “I’m sorry I worried you.”

Lisa interrupted the two, “What happened to you anyway?” She inquired, curiously eyeing the girl’s bandages, “Did they replace your skull with a metal plate or something?” She asked, as she moved in closer, trying to peek under the bandages.

Sam ducked out of the way of Lisa’s prying stares, “No.” She thought for a moment and touched her head, “I don’t think they did.”

“It was nothing that serious.” A voice stated from behind Trish’s mother. Sam glanced up to see the social worker standing in the door. The woman turned to Trish’s mom and extended her hand, “Hi, my name is Linda Polaski, I work for social services.” She introduced and Trish’s mother took the woman’s hand in turn, “What is your relationship with Samantha?”

Sam felt herself tense up at the sight of Trish’s mother talking to this woman and without being aware of it she moved her hand upon Trish’s. She only became aware of this action when she felt Trish squeeze her hand in return and she glanced over at the girl to see her smiling back at her.

“Well, I’m Trisha’s mother, Diana Sallion.” Trish’s mother answered, “Trisha has been friends with Samantha for oh… about ten or eleven years now. Can I ask what this is all about?” She inquired with concerned curiosity.

“How well do you think you know Samantha?”  The woman asked, opening her folder and glancing over some papers before her.

Diana glanced from the social worker to Sam and she gave the girl a warm smile and a nod, as if she understood the tension that the woman was causing her, “She is like a second daughter to me actually.” She gestured to the door, “Maybe we should talk about this outside?” She suggested.

The social worker suddenly became aware of the many eyes upon them and gave a nervous smile, “A… alright…” She quickly slipped out of the room closely beside Diana and they closed the door behind them.

“What was that about?” Lisa asked leerily, “Why would a social worker be snooping around here?

Sam let out a deep breath that she did not realize she had been holding; “My mom hit me with a vase.” She stated dismally.

“She what?!?” Trish exclaimed, she had seen Sam come to school with the occasional bruise on the face, but she never expected her mother to try to kill her.

Sam rubbed the back of her neck, “My dad was still home when I got home and they were arguing again. When I opened the door dad was standing there and mom threw a vase at him, but he ducked and I got hit instead.”

Trish sucked in a breath between her teeth, “Geez…” She lightly touched the girl’s bandages, “Does it hurt?”

Sam shrugged, “Only a little. The strangest thing was that my Meephit warned me just before I was hit, but it was a little too late.”

Lisa blinked in confusion, “You got a Meephit? When?”

Sam suddenly regretted mentioning the toy and gave Trish an apologetic half smile then turned to Lisa, “Trish got it for me after school.”

“Can I see it?” Lisa asked excitedly.

Sam searched the folds of her blanket until she found the toad and handed it to Lisa, “Here you are.” As she passed the creature over to her friend she noticed Beth move around to the other side of the bed, her eyes never leaving the toy.

“I’m sorry I did not give you a better warning.” Beth apologized as she finally tore her eyes from the Meephit, “I knew something was going to happen, but…”

Sam smiled at the girl, “It’s alright. You tried and that is all that matter, sorry I didn’t take your warning more seriously.” She rubbed the uninjured side of her head, “I guess I’ve learned my lesson.” She said with a small chuckle. However Beth was not listening, she was staring into Sam’s eyes with such intensity that it made Sam shrink back into her pillows, “Is… is there something wrong Beth?” Sam inquired worriedly.

“You have two souls.” Beth stated in a low whisper.

Sam became startled by this accusation and leaned in closer to Beth, “What do you mean? C… can you see her?” She whispered softly.

“See who?” Trish inquired, leaning in close to hear what the two girls were talking about.

Beth straightened up and crossed her arms, “She is showing through strongly, mostly in your eyes.”

Lisa glanced from one girl to another, “What are you all talking about?” She asked curiously, wanting to be let in on the secret.

Sam wanted to ask Beth more questions when the door suddenly opened and Trish’s mother entered the room, closing the door behind her, and then approached the girls.

“Is everything alright mom?” Trish eagerly asked.

She set her hand upon her daughter’s shoulder and looked at Sam, “That all depends on Sam.”

Sam was confused by this answer, “By me? What about me?”

“Well…” She hesitated for a moment before speaking, “It would appear a lot has happened over night and your mother has decided to divorce your father.”

Sam rolled her eyes; “She has been saying she would do that for years. She only recently kicked him out.” She explained with a sigh.

Diana nodded sympathetically and continued; “In response your father told the social worker about your mother abusing you and your sister, so for the time being they want the two of you to stay with your aunt.”

Sam’s eyes grew huge at this prospect, “My aunt? She lives way outside of town.” She exclaimed frantically, tears forming in the corners of her eyes, “I’d have to leave my school and won’t be able to see anyone every again.”

Diana put up her hands in defence, “I realized this and talked with the social worker and…” She quickly glanced from Trish and back to Sam, “They are willing to allow you to live with us for a bit if you like. Social Services wants to look into your case further, but since you are sixteen you legally can choose where you want to live so….”

Sam felt her jaw drop at what Diana was suggesting and gazed over at Trish, “Me… stay with you?” She inquired dumbfounded by the notion of living with her best friend

Trish licked at her lips nervously, “Is this for real?” She asked, hoping that her mother was not playing some cruel joke on her.

Diana nodded, “We can set up the spare room, Trisha’s old room, for you and you are welcome to stay as long as you want.”

The tears finally broke free of their cell and Sam nodded frantically, “Y… yes… T… thank you.” She reached out to Diana like a child in search of their mother and the woman took the girl in her arms and held her tightly. Sam buried her face in the woman’s chest and sobbed, this was ending up to be the best Birthday in her life.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 11

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Eleven

Star sat upon a bench outside of the hospital, drawing in deeply the cool autumns air as she tried to force her mind into clarity. With each breath she felt herself needing to struggle with the emotions that threatened to pull her to the ground. She clenched at the sides of the bench as she swallowed back the string of emotions that bombarded her at that moment. She knew it was crazy and that she had only just met Samantha, but she never felt so deeply for someone in her life. She could feel the girl’s emotions rollarcoastering in her mind, making it extra difficult to control her own thoughts and worries. She could sense that Sam was under a lot of stress and could feel the weight of her worries pulling the girl down. Then, as if someone hit some sort of switch, she felt Sam begin to fade as she drifted off to sleep. Star figured that the past events finally got to be too much for the girl and she passed out for the time. She felt guilty to be relieved by this fact, but it did mean she would have some time to sort out her thoughts and figure out what she was going to do from here.

Her hand fell upon her handbag and she recalled Sam’s words about the toy inside. She took out the toy and turned it over in her hands. Could this thing really tell her the future? She wanted to know. Carefully she pulled the device from its chest and flipped the switch on its back.

“Good afternoon Star, so glad to meet you. Is there something I can do for you?” It said with a few happy charms and beeps.

Star nearly dropped the object with fright. She had not yet turned the device on before that moment so there was no way it could know her name. She would have to reset the device and erase the old users information before it could know anything about her, and what was the likelihood of another girl having the same name as herself? It was not like the name Jennifer or anything like that. Star was a very uncommon name so there was no way that the last owner could have had the same name. Trembling she stared down at the device as a small heart blinked away and pondered if this device really was magical and if it could help her with her current troubles.

Uneasily she began to type a question for the toy to answer, “Is there a chance for Samantha and me to meet in person?” She punched into the small leaf shaped keys and stared at the blinking curser at the end as her thumb hovered over the enter key and she hesitated. Did she really want to know the answer to this question? She would be putting her fate into some strange toy and she did not like the idea of that. She considered shutting off the machine and then reconsidered. No matter what answer the machine gave she could always ignore it. If it told her that they would never meet that did not necessarily mean it was correct for it could just mean that at that moment there was no chance. Convincing herself to just give the toy a try she pushed the finally button and felt a lump well up inside of her throat as a row of hearts flickered across the screen and she wished she could take her question back. She wanted to turn away, anything to not see what the device had to say about her situation, but could not take her eyes off the flickering hearts. Suddenly the screen blinked and was followed by a series of musical beeps and a message appeared on the screen.

“Very much so indeed!” It replied and Star felt her heart begin to rise in joy and then she reminded herself to keep her feet on the ground for this was just a toy and could not tell the future, but still the prospect of seeing Sam made her heart pound uncontrollably and she started punching in a new question for the device.

“How long will I have to wait?” She anxiously asked the device.

“Soon and not so soon.” It answered and Star stared at the message before her.

“What does that mean? How soon?” She asked.

“That depends on Sam.”

Star blinked at the machine in confusion. Why would that depend on Sam? She wanted to ask, but was afraid of the answer. Her mind raced as many questions ran through it and before she knew what she was doing she began typing out a new question.

“Could Sam love me?” She let out a panicked sound as her thumb hit the enter button and almost dropped the toy to the ground. She did not know what made her ask such a stupid question and she wished she could take it back, but as she fumbled with the device she heard it beep and she let it fall into her lap, face down. Her heart was pounding wildly now and she swallowed hard as she stared down at the device in her lap. Did she really want to know the answer this machine had for her? If she wanted to she could simply switch the device off and leave it at that, but she had to know, had to see what it said. Shakily she picked up the toy, keeping its face down, and licked at her lips. Quickly her thumb moved to the off switch and she shut the machine off, telling herself that she would allow fate to decide her destiny with Sam instead of this device.

Glancing at her watch she suddenly realized that it was nearly eleven and she would need to get home soon. Deciding that a walk might do her good she started on her way, picking up the package she had bought for Samantha in the gift shop and staring at it. What was she going to do with this? How was she going to give the girl her birthday gift if she can’t even see her in person? She thought this over as she turned the package over in her hands. The sales person at the gift shop was very kind and helped her pick out just the right gift and had even wrapped it for her. She looked over the perfectly folded colourful paper and the red silk ribbon that wrapped around the sides and was tied in a bow at the top. There was a year between the two of them, but a year wasn’t a very long time and the device did say they would meet soon. Things could have been much worse and they could have been centuries apart. The idea of being hundreds of years apart made her shutter and she was suddenly thankful for the short period of time that they were apart.

She glanced around as she suddenly realized that if Samantha was staying at this hospital that meant that she lived somewhere in the area and this made her smile. She was one year in the future so there was still a chance that the two of them could meet up. She just had to figure out where Sam would be in one year. The thought of actually seeing the girl excited her and she decided to take her time to get to know Sam a little better and at the same time try to figure out where the future Samantha was hiding, meanwhile still being at Sam’s side during her time of need. Happily she stuffed the toy back in her handbag and rushed off towards her home, package tucked under her arm with the intent of giving the gift to Sam when they finally met.

******

Sam slowly stirred in her bed, her head hurt and she felt dizzy. The last thing she remembered was Trish’s mother telling her that she could stay with them and then the world became a whirl of greyness. She glanced around the room to find herself completely alone and she figured she must have passed out and felt ashamed of herself. Her friends came all the way out to visit her and she passes out on them. What a wonderful friend she was turning out to be. The thought of friends made her mind turn to Star and worry began to fill her.

((STAR!!)) She called out in distress, ((Star are you there?!?))

((I’m right here.)) Came a much happier sounding voice then the last she heard.

Sam let out a sigh of relief, ((I thought I lost you again.)) She admitted sheepishly.

Star shook her head, ((Nope, Did you get some good sleep?)) She inquired concernedly.

Sam slowly nodded, her head felt woozy and heavy, ((Yeah, but my head hurts.)) She stated miserably as she held her head and recoiled as her hand fell upon her wounds and she hissed.

((You alright?))

Sam placed two fingers above her eyebrows, being careful not to touch her bandages, and rubbed at her forehead, ((Yeah… I just forgot about my head…)) She muttered in distain of her own stupidity.

((Maybe you should ask the nurse for some painkillers or something.)) Star insisted.

Sam searched for the button that would call the nurse, ((You are sounding better. Anything happen while I was out?)) She found the call button under the blankets and pressed it.

Star shrugged, ((Nothing much really.))

Sam squinted suspiciously, ((Is that so? You sound rather happy for just nothing.))

Sam could feel the smile that spread across the girl’s face, ((I just realize that I should be grateful for what we have.)) She stated simply.

((And what is that?)) Sam pushed the button again as another wave of pain spread through her head.

((We have each other.)) Star explained, ((We may not be together now, but one day that may change and until then I’m willing to wait for you.))

This startled Samantha, ((Wait for me?))

Star nodded, ((As long as it takes.))

Nurse Janis suddenly came into the room, “Can I do something for you Samantha?” She inquired curiously as she moved towards the girl’s bed and helped straighten out the blankets that the girl has become tangled in during her sleep.

Sam considered probing her new friend, but decided to leave it for later, “My head hurts. Can I have something for it?”

Janis reached into her pocket and pulled out a small yellow bottle, “Sure thing.” She said, “The doctor left you something in case the pain was too much for you.” She popped open the cap off of the bottles and poured out two pills into her hand, then turned to a pitcher of water and filled a glass on the nightstand next to Sam’s bed. “Here you go.” She handed the girl the pills and the glass.

Sam took the pills gratefully and popped them both in her mouth before downing the water, then leaned back heavily upon the pillows of her bed, “Thanks.” She handed the glass out to the woman and gave her a weak smile.

Janis took the glass from the girl and placed it back upon the night table, “Your friend is still here, would you like me to tell her she can come in?”

Sam struggled with the dizziness that tried to overcome her, “Someone is still here? Who?”

“I think her name is Trisha.” The nurse said with a nod, “She has been living off hospital food the past few hours. She must be a really good friend to stay by your side like this.”

Sam smiled weakly, “I guess…”

“Do you want to see her, or should I tell her you are still sleeping?”

“I guess she can come in.”

“Alright then.” The nurse fluffed up the pillows behind Sam’s head before turning to leave the room, “If you need anything feel free to buzz me again.” She said as she lowered the lights in the room so they would not bother Sam as much. 

Sam slowly nodded as she placed a hand over her eyes, “God, I feel sick…” She muttered.

“Sam?” Trisha’s voice cautiously called out from the door in a soft whisper, “You awake?”

Sam lazily waved an arm towards the door to invite the girl in.

Trish slowly closed the door behind her and crept into the room, “You alright?” She inquired curiously.

Sam sat up slightly and gave the girl a half smile, “My head feels like it is going to explode, but I’m alright I guess.”

Trish sat down on a chair next to the bed and watched her friend with misery spread across her face, “When you passed out like that I thought we had lost you forever.” She admitted sheepishly.

Sam’s smile broadened, “I’m tougher then that, you should know that.” She stated proudly, “Just too much happening at once and I guess I fainted. Did Lisa and Beth leave already?”

Trish slowly nodded, “Beth said she had someone she had to meet up with and Lisa could only stay for a short while because her mother is afraid of her catching a disease being here.”

Sam let out a weak chuckle and the thought of Lisa’s mother, and then glanced at her friend. The girl’s face was drawn and worry had painted around her eyes in dark circles that told Sam that her friend had not slept well the night before. Guilt rose up in her mind as she realized that she was more then likely the cause for that lack of sleep and let out a tired sigh. She searched her mind for the words to say to her friend, yet nothing came forth and a silence began to build in the room.

Silently Sam called for Star’s support, but only received a gargled response in return. She could feel the girl was still there, but it was as if she was looking through water. That thought of murkiness made her eyes drop to the glass of water and recall the pills she just took. She rolled back in her bed as she realized that the pills were probably to blame for her lack of clarity in her communication with her psychic friend and that she was going to have to face her best friend on her own and this frightened her.

When the silence was finally broken it was by both of them at the same time, saying each other’s name in unison. Then by a series of apologizes that bounces off each other. This was not the first time the two of them had a battle of this sort. It happened quite often actually and it always made them laugh, as they did at that moment. Finally Trish gestured for her friend to begin.

Sam settled back in her bed and stared at the ceiling. She could feel her hand trembling at the very thought of what she was about to talk about and she held them tight upon her stomach, “Trish… I…” She let out a deep breath and took another, “I… I’m sorry… I’m sorry I ran away last night.”

Trish shook her head, “You don’t have to explain. I already know.”

Sam turned to look at the girl in shock, “You know? But how?”

Trish pulled her Meephit from her pocket, “It told me.” She stated simply, “After you left I asked it why you ran off and it told me why.”

Sam lightly closed her eyes and sighed, “What did it say I ran from?”

“Love.”

Sam sunk deep into her pillows and pulled them around over her head. Her head hurt more then ever, but this was a different pain, it was the pain of emotions as they crashed about in her mind and a tidal wave of tears that wanted to burst from her eyes, but she fought to keep at bay.

“I…” Sam croaked, “I… I can’t… L…”

Trish stood up and sat upon the edge of the bed, placing a hand upon her friend’s arm, “I know… I understand…” Trish said with as much calm as she could muster, “I’ve been ready to deal with this for years, we are both girls after all so…” She forced herself to swallow as she felt her throat threaten to close up on her.

Samantha unburied her head to look up at her friend. Waves of sadness and pain emitted from Trisha in such intensity that Sam could almost feel the girl inside of her mind. Sam slowly shook her head, never letting her eyes leave her friends, “That is not it… not at all…” She reached up and allowed herself to touch her friend’s cheek, causing the girl to shiver, “I… I like you… I like you a lot… I just…” She licked at her lips nervously.

“You just don’t love me.” Trish finished the girl’s sentence miserably.

Again Sam shook her head, “I don’t even know what love is.” She explained, suddenly coming to the conclusion inside of her head, “I’ve never even felt the love of my parents or any of my family. I don’t know if what I feel for you is love or not, but I know I don’t want to be without you.”

Tear streamed across the girl’s round cheeks and her lips trembled, “R… really?” She asked weakly, almost not wanting to hear the answer.

Sam nodded, “Really, you are the most important person to me and I never want to loss you. That was what I was afraid of. Losing you.”

Trish fell into Sam’s arms and hugged her tightly, “You’re never going to lose me, because I’m never going to leave you.” Abruptly she sat up and smiled at her friend, “Oh, Mom and that social worker are heading over to your house right now to get some of your things. They are going to move you over to my place tomorrow. We’ll never be apart again. Isn’t that great.”

Sam had forgotten about the fact that she was moving in with her best friend and she was startled to hear that the girl’s mother was visiting her home. She rubbed her face as worry began to creep through her mind. Her mother would not be happy with this arrangement and would come after her for sure. She would think that it was Sam that spoke up to the social workers and that thought made Sam feel as if her death warrant had been signed and sealed. She pulled the pillows over her head again in an attempt to hide from the world.

“Sam? Did you forget about you moving in with us?” Trish inquired worriedly.

Sam shook her head, “My mother is going to kill me.” She stated miserably, “I’m not going to live to be seventeen.”

Trish chuckled lightly, “She’s not going to kill you.” She insisted, “From what the social worker was saying she can’t even come near you until after the trial, and even then she might never be able to come near you again.”

“Gee… that makes me feel so much better.” Sam stated dismally, “In the blink of an eye I’ve lost my entire family. They haven’t even bothered to visit me in the hospital. I guess they really don’t care.” She wrapped her arms around her head.

Trish set a hand upon Samantha’s arm, “But you gained one as well.” She reminded the girl, “You know my mom loves you and that I…” She sighed deeply, “I’ll never let anyone ever hurt you again.” She stated firmly.

Sam stared up at the girl and smiled, “I know you will. Thanks.”

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 12

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Twelve

Sam sat with Trish for a while, the two of them simply talking the way they used to, however this time she could feel the usually tension between them loosening. It was as if the simply knowledge of each others feelings made that unusual tension that sometimes appeared over them to drift away. Occasionally Trish would touch Sam’s hand and pull away, but Sam assured the girl that it was alright to touch her, in fact she internally liked the feeling of the girl’s touch but did not want to tell Trish for fear that it would get the girl’s hopes up too quickly. They rang the nurse soon after and asked for a couple of movies to watch on the small television that hung on the wall in the corner of the room. Before long Trish was sitting next to Sam on the bed as they watched a movie, cuddling close to each other. Sam was beginning to enjoy the closeness of her friend at her side when she suddenly felt a voice come to the surface of her mind and she remembered Star was still part of her mind.

((Sam?!?)) Star’s anxious voice called out through the fog, ((Sam, can you hear me?))

Sam smiled at the sound of the girl’s voice, ((Star? I’m glad to hear you again.))

Star let out a sigh of relief, ((What happened? I lost you there for a moment.))

((Sorry, I think it was the drugs.)) Sam suggested with a shrug, ((The moment after I took them it was like my mind was filled with a fog and I couldn’t hear you anymore.))

((I was scared there for a moment.)) Star stated worriedly, ((I finally decided to search for you and I nearly loose you again.))

Sam smiled again, ((I don’t think we’ll loose each other. Wait you are searching for me?))

Star nodded, ((I have no idea where to start, but I think you have to be in town somewhere, a year older, but still you.))

Sam frowned, ((How will my older self take that? I mean we don’t even know what will happen in a year.))

Star smiled, ((I have a feeling you will be glad to see me, as happy as I will be to see you.)) She said confidently.

Sam nodded in agreement, ((I know I want to meet you now so I’ll sure as hell will still want to meet you a year from now.)) She glanced over at Trish, who was entranced by the movie, ((Did you hear I’m moving in with Trish and her mother.)) Sam inquired excitedly.

Star frowned, ((Yeah, I heard. You must be happy. I mean you get to be with the one you love.))

Sam shook her head, ((I’m not sure if I love her or not. We talked things out and decided to just see how things go, but now I’m at least accepting that there is a chance that I could love a girl.))

This caused Star’s heart to flutter and Sam could feel it, ((That is wonderful.)) She exclaimed with more excitement then she meant.

Sam chuckled lightly, ((Thanks for talking to me yesterday. I think I would have kept running if it wasn’t for you. Thanks.))

Star lightly flushed, ((It is nothing. I just let you talk was all. I’m just glad you have come to terms with yourself.))

Sam felt Trish snuggle into her a little closer and could feel her heart racing even more and let out a sigh, ((So am I. Even if this doesn’t turn out to be love it is nice to be loved by someone.))

Star smiled, ((I know what you mean…)) Abruptly she stopped speaking and Sam felt an intense amount of dread fill her heart.

((What is going on?)) Sam inquired, worried for her new friend, ((Is everything alright?))

*******

Star stood with her hand upon the knob to her home, the door slightly ajar and a sensation of intense fear and pain filled began to fill her heart. Quickly she pushed open the door to find the house dark, with all the curtains pulled shut and the lights out. Deep down she hoped that this only meant that her mother was out getting groceries or maybe prepared something for her birthday and would jump out to surprised her at any moment, but she knew that was not true because of waves of fear and anger emitted from the house, feeling that never before arose from her home before, that was usually lively and warm. Something dreadful has just happened in her house and she was almost frightened to enter the place, but the thought of her mother hurt made her enter the house in search of what could have caused these emotions to fill her home. The muffled sounds of beeps came from her handbag, but she ignored and as she moved further into the house. 

((Is everything alright?)) Sam inquired yet again.

((I… I… don’t know…)) Star stammered as her eyes adjusted to the gloom and she walked down the front hall to the living room, which was off to her right, and stopped dead in her tracks as her worst nightmares became true. The living room was filled with many colourful balloons and streamers, which she knew must have been put in place by her mother as she waited to surprise her when she returned home. A cake sat upon the octagon table in the middle of the room with candles awaiting being set a blaze for some lucky person to make a wish upon. In the middle of the room lay a scene that she expected to only see in the movies. Her mother lay on her back in an unnatural position with a pool of blood upon her stomach and another forming under her back. A second hole could be seen in the woman’s neck and yet another in her shoulder. Instantly Star realized that her mother had been shot and was more then likely dead, but something inside of her didn’t believe what her eyes told her.

Thinking that this was all some kind of cruel birthday prank and that her mother would get up to surprise her, she took a step into the room with the intention of finding out if her mother was in fact dead when she felt something move in the shadows off to her left. As she turned she saw a tall man standing in the shadows with something in his hand. Her mind quickly told her to run, but her feet did not respond to her command as she stared in disbelief at the person before her.

*****

((Star???)) Sam worriedly inquired again. She could sense something was indeed wrong as every part of her body filled with a sense of panic and fear, ((Star!?!)) She called out again, but the girl did not respond. Frightened and curious Sam slowly closed her eyes to get a glimpse at what could have frightened her friend so badly. The sight of blood shocked her as her eyes set upon Star’s mother lying on the floor in front of her. A breath caught in her throat as she realized that the woman was dead and just as she was about to call out for Star to flee she felt someone move to her left and Star turned to face a man standing in the shadows. Before she could understand what was going on her ears shook with the sound of a loud bang and something hot ripped through her side. Her hands quickly moved to her side and could feel warm blood seeping through her fingertips. Star starred down at a wound in her side, her fingers covered in crimson, dripping over her fingers to off-white carpet. She glanced up again to see the man step closer, a gun in his hand and a second later a flash exploded in front of her face and the world turned dark. Nothing but silence followed as Samantha slipped out of consciousness once again.

*****

Trish was startled as Samantha suddenly sat up right. Her eyes were closed, but there was an intense expression of fear upon her face. Abruptly Sam clenched her side and slowly moved her trembling hands before her face, as if seeing them through her closed eyes. Trisha reached out to touch the girl, to wake her from whatever nightmare she was trapped in. Just as her fingers were about to touch the girl her head snapped back and she fell to the bed, limp.

Franticly Trish grabbed her friend by the shoulders and lightly shook her, “Samantha?” She shook the girl again, “Samantha? What happened???” Not knowing what to do she jumped out of the bed and rushed out of the room, in search of help. 

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 13

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Thirteen

Sam found herself surrounded by darkness. She reached out with her mind for Star but could not feel the girl’s essence anywhere. It was as if the girl’s entire existence had vanished and with it Sam felt a part of herself had been violently torn for her. She swam through the blackness, frantically in search of the girl, not willing to believe that Star was no longer with her. After a time she realized that Star could not hear her anymore and a lump began to form inside of her heart, weighing her down heavily.

Slowly Sam began to open her eyes, which felt as if they were made of lead, and she groaned as she tried to sit only to collapse back onto the bed, clenching at her right eye as red-hot embers flashed through her head. She let out a scream of agony as the physical pain, coupled with the emotional agony, filled her chest.

Trish appeared at her side, “Sam? Sam it’s me, Trisha. What happened?”

Sam’s good eye tiredly searched the room until it came upon Trish’s face. “It hurts…” She moaned, clenching tightly to her chest and the emptiness the filled her, trying to keep it from swallowing her whole. “I… It feels like my head and stomach are on fire…” She said dryly, her mouth felt like sandpaper and her throat burned, “I need something to drink.”

“I’ll go get a doctor.” Sam heard Diana say and the door to the room quickly opening.

“Here.” Trish held a glass of water with a long bendable straw close to Sam’s lips, helping the girl lift her head to take a sip, “Can you tell me what happened?” Trish whispered into the girl’s ear.

“I… I can’t feel her anymore” Sam explained, tears running around her head and into her ear, and she buried her face in the pillow as a pained sob overcame her.
 
Trish placed the glass back on the table and wrapped her arms around Sam’s shoulders, “Shhhh…” She soothed, rubbing the girl’s back as she sobbed into the pillow.

A doctor suddenly rushed into the room with a nurse close beside him, “Excuse me miss.” He said politely as he moved Trish out of the way.

Sam reached out towards her friend, “D… don’t leave me…” She pleaded.

The pained look in Sam’s eyes tugged on Trish’s heart and she reached out to take the girl’s hand, being sure to stay out of the way of the doctor.

The doctor looked as if he was about to say something to the nurse then reconsidered and nodded for the nurse to go to the other side of the bed, and then began to examine the girl, “Can you tell us what happened? Where does it hurt?” He asked as he shone a light into her eye.

”I… I don’t know.” Sam explained in slow laboured breathes, she was finding it hard to breath and her heart kept pounding out of control, “It feels like there is a weight on my chest and my head and stomach hurt.” She said, moving her hand to her side, still feeling the hot blood upon her fingers and running down her hip.

The doctor moved the girl’s hand, “Where?” He inquired, pulling up her gown, “Oh my god…” He breathed as he stared at the girl’s side.

“Holy hell…” Trish stared in shock, not believing what she saw.

“What?” Sam looked down at what they were staring at to see a circular scar about the size of a nickel, ten or so centimetres to the left of her bellybutton. The moment her eyes feel upon the mark she knew what had happened to her friend and why she did not respond any longer. Sam did not want to believe it, but knew deep inside that the reason Star no longer respond was because she was no longer apart of the living world and this thought ripped through her heart like the bullets through her friend. Suddenly she bulked and curled into a tight ball as a sense of loss overwhelmed her and she let out another series of sobs, her hand never letting go of Trisha’s.

The doctor ignored the girl’s display as he took a moment to examine her back and made another shocked sound, “There is another one here.” He stated in amazement, “A through and through.” He breathed.

“But how?” The nurse asked, as she stroked the girl’s back, trying with vain to sooth the girl’s wounded heart.

The doctor leaned in close to the girl, “Samantha?” The doctor said to the girl, trying to get her attention, “I need you to stay calm for a moment and tell me where else it hurts.”

Sam uncurled one arm from her stomach pointed above her right eyebrow, under the layers of bandages, “H… here.”

With shaky hands the doctor rolled up the edge of the bandage and quickly took a step back, “I… I need a second opinion.” He said as he ran out the door.

Trish stared at her friend’s forehead, and breathed in disbelief, “Mom, is that what I think it is?”

Her mother put a hand to her mouth and nodded, “What happened to her?” She asked in pained astonishment, “H… how… who… who would shot a child?”


*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 14

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Part 2

Chapter Fourteen

The next month drifted by in a painfully blur for Samantha. After that dreadful day the doctors proceeded to probe her and take a number to scans of her body. They discovered that other then the scars on her body there was no other evidence that she had been shot before. No bullet fragments or other internal injuries or even a sign of bullets ever passing through her body. More doctors then she could count came to visit her and look at her strange wounds, not one with an explanation as to how something like this could have happened. Sam knew exactly what those wounds meant and they would be a constant reminder of the girl she would always consider one of her friends. She felt sadness and anger fill her heart during the week she spent in the hospital, sadness for never being able to meet Star in person and anger for the person that cut her friends life so short. Every night she would be visited by nightmares of the images she saw before Star’s death and each morning she tried hard to get a clear picture of who could have done this to her friend only to be greeted by a shadowy silhouette again and again.

Her stay in the hospital passed much quicker then Sam expected, even with the numerous doctors visits and tests. As promised, Diana returned with a suitcase of clothes for Sam and other for Trish, explaining that Sam’s mother, who Diana met in the lobby, brought it. Sam wondered if her mother would ever visit her, but realized that might not be possible after she told the social worker how her mother treated her. Sam worried that her mother would suddenly appear and accuse her of being a lair, but that never happened. It saddened Sam slightly that her mother never visited, but at the same time she was glad to be free of the woman and she was so busy with the many doctors tests that she did not have much time to think about it.

Trisha stayed with her every night, only leaving to accompany her mother to Sam’s old home to gather her things. They went while Sam’s mother was away at work, so there would be no fighting. Trish excitedly told her how they put everything in the Sam’s new bedroom, including her bed, dresser and all her stuffed animals. Trish was excited to find some of the old toys that she herself had given Sam for presents sometimes ago and Sam explained that she never threw out a single gift from Trish, realizing that she always harboured feeling for her friend, just never admitted to it. The doctors allowed Trish to stay at her side during the nights because they were such close friends, and Sam didn’t have anyone else to help with her recovery. Even with her friend at her side Sam still felt herself overwhelmed by the depression that kept pulling her deeper down into a pit of despair. She knew she should be happy that she was moving in with her friend, but the thought of never being able to meet Star held heavy on her heart. She forced herself not to cry, refusing to allow the doctors to see how much pain she really was in for fear that they would only keep her longer.

Before long Friday came along, one week since the madness all started, the doctors decided that there was not much else they could do for Sam. She was recovering well and her stitches were healing nicely so she would be able to leave that evening. The doctor came in to check her stitches one last time, leaving the bandages off this time, and Sam stared at her reflection in the bathroom mirror. It was the first time she had looked at herself without the bandages and she shuddered at the image before her. They had managed to stitch the wound shut without cutting too much of her hair, but there were still several black marks cutting across the line of her hair and along the brow of her head. She reached up to touch the cuts only to recoil at the sharpness of the stitches. They had told her she would have to come back to have them removed in another week or so, but she wished they were gone now. She felt ugly and ashamed of her looks. She tugged at a lock of her bangs, trying to pull it over the wounds only to have it spring back in place and let out a deep sigh. What would the kids at school think of her now, one long gash cutting over her eye, with several smaller ones filling in the space around it and the scar of a bullet next too it? She wished her hair was longer so her bangs would cover the scar at the very least, but knew it would be at least a month before her hair grew in long enough to cover the cuts, never mind the scar over her eye.

Sam was shocked to find her room exactly as she had it in her old home. Diana decided to give her Trish’s old room upstairs, across from Diana’s room and next to the washroom. As she opened the door Sam was expecting to see it in the same state as she last visited that room, filled with Trish’s toys and furniture. Instead she was stunned to find her own room, as if someone had mystically transported her bedroom into Trish’s home. Trish had somehow managed to arrange everything the way they were before the accident. Stuffed animals lined the dresser, night table and bed. They had even replaced the curtains with the frilly soft white ones that she loves so dearly. The sight of the room brought tears to her eyes and she hugged Trish struggling to keep herself from crying. Trish and Diana gave her a moment to unpack her things and the moment the door closed she could feel the tears flooding her eyes and a pain welling up inside of her head. She rushed to the bed and buried her face in the pillows and let out a sorrow filled sob, allowing herself to cry for the first time since Star’s death. So much sadness and loss washed over her and she curled up upon her bed, breathing in the scent of her pillows and pulling the nearest stuffed animal, a large pink rabbit, into her arms.

She felt as if someone had plunged a knife deep into her heart and was twisting it violently around. Her head pounded and her stomach felt as if it was going to vomit up the small amount of dinner that she had on their way home, a meal of McDonalds burgers, fries and a shake. She had only nibbled on her fries and the burger, but felt as if the food was about to lurch forward in her stomach and make a return appearance on the floor. Although it threatened to do so she didn’t puke and was grateful for that, however her sobs came out in a painful wailing that she muffled with the pillow as best she could, before long she fell into a fitful sleep and dreamed of Star, of the way she felt when the girl blushed and the way she smelt when Sam passed through her body, and then came the nightmares once again. The blood coating her hands and face and the ear shattering sound of the gun. She wake up with a start to see the moon shining through her window and began to sob yet again.

Sam spent the next month in her room, despair her roommate, as she listened to sad music on her radio and cried into her pillow until she was too tired to cry anymore and slept. Diana allowed her to skip school for the time being. Somehow she knew that something had upset Sam greatly but did not pry and simply allowed the girl time to herself. Sam wished there was a way she could repay Trish and Diana for their kindness, but the more she thought about it the more miserable she felt. Diana told her to rest for the next while and only return to school when she felt like it, but even though her head did not hurt as much as it used to she was not sure she could face the school, the very thought of trying to live felt like an effort. She knew that she was being silly and that she shouldn’t allow Star’s death to hold her back from living, but she felt as if part of her soul had been torn from her heart and she was left with an emptiness that she was certain would never be filled again. She rolled over on her bed and hugged one of her many stuffed animals as another series of tears began to break free. Every time she thought of the mysterious girl that entered her world she felt the tears return. She told herself to stop, but she could not gain control and it was beginning to make her feel like a hopeless child. She did not even have anything to remember the girl by and this only saddened her more.

Then she recalled that Star was carrying the same Meephit that she had and excitement grew inside of her heart. She did have something to remember Star by, but she could not remember when she saw it last. Quickly she moved around the room in search of the strange frog toy. She did not find it among her other toys and began a frantic search through her dresser drawers for the creature. The longer she searched the more lost she felt and after a time she fled from her room to search the rest of the house.

“Sam?” Diana smiled as she watched the girl come down the stairs and then frowned at the serious look upon her face, “Is something the matter?” She asked the girl, watching as Sam moved around the living room, looking under the sofa and the coffee table.

Sam lifted her head above the coffee table, glancing at the books that lay upon its surface, “My Meephit…” She said in a panicked voice, “Have you seen it?”

Diana thought for a moment and shook her head, “The last time I saw it was at the hospital. Did you forget it there?”

Sam’s eyes filled with dread and she sprung to her feet, her head spinning around as she searched the room, “I couldn’t have… I wouldn’t… I made sure I had everything with me…” Franticly she moved to the closet and began searching the pockets of her jacket.

Diana got to her feet, “I’ll try giving the hospital a call. They might have found it for you.” She stated with an assuring smile that did not comfort Sam’s worries.

Sam continued to search the room, then moved to the subbasement and recalled the many days she spent down here with Trish and sighed. She felt sorry for the girl; she was so wrapped up in her own worries that she did not have time to be with Trish much. Trish checked on her after school each day, bringing homework for her and trying to be a comforting shoulder to cry on, but she did not know the depth of the pain that Sam was going through so could only sit on the edge of the bed and watch her friend sink deeper into depression. Sam shook the thought from her head; she already had too much guilt on her mind and needed to straighten out her thoughts before she could think about Trish.

It took her no time at all to search Trish’s living room and she considered searching the girl’s room and reconsidered, it would be an invasion of the girl’s privacy to barge in unannounced and search her belongings so turned around and headed back up the stairs to the kitchen where Diana slowly hung up the phone.

“Did they have it?” Sam inquired, already knowing the answer from the long expression upon the woman’s face.

Diana shook her head, “I’m sorry, they said they cleaned your room and there wasn’t anything of your belonging there.”

Sam shook her head in frustration, “It has to be here somewhere.” She rushed back up the stairs to her bedroom to search her belongings once again. After several through searches she finally collapsed on her bed and let out a tired sob. Star was really gone and her only connection to the girl had disappeared along with the girl. She knew deep in her heart that she would not find the toy for Star was carrying it a year later. She was certain that it was the same Meephit and there was no doubt about it, but Star did not get the toy until the day before her birthday, so that would mean it was on its way to Star right now. The fates were playing their game and Sam felt hopeless against their powers. She rolled over in her bed again and held a pillow tight in her arms, allowing her misery to finally take hold of her.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 15

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Fifteen

That October afternoon there came a knock at the door and Samantha sat upright in her bed, rubbing the tears from her eyes, “Who is it?” She inquired weakly.

The door slowly opened and Trish entered the room, a worried look upon her face. Sam had noticed with each passing day that Trish’s expression grew longer. She could see that the girl was trying to hide her own misery, she could sense it in the air around the girl and this only made Sam feel all the more depressions. She forced herself to smile for the girl, even though she knew that Trish could not be easily fooled by a simple smile, “How was school?” She asked, trying to make conversation.

Trish sat upon the bed beside her friend and shrugged, “Not much fun without you there.” She remarked dismally, “I got more of your homework so you can catch up when you feel like it.” She stated, her eyes moving around the room as she spoke, not able to return her friend’s gaze.

Sam glanced down at her hands, “Thanks…” She fell silent as she tried to think of something else to say. Trish was the first to break the silence.

“Oh, Beth asked about you.” She stated simply, “She is worried about you, so is Lisa. Maybe they could come over sometime”

Sam let out a sigh; “I don’t know if I want to see anyone right now.” She lightly touched the wound above her eye.

Trish abruptly stood and stared down at the girl, “You can’t keep doing this.” She suddenly exclaimed in anger, “Do you plan to just hide in here your entire life?”

Sam shook her head, “I… I don’t know… I just don’t feel like seeing anyone.”

Trish shook her own head in frustration, “Is it because of us?” She asked franticly, “I feel as if you are avoiding me. You don’t say anything at dinner and you just sit up here all day long. I can’t stand to see you like this.”

Sam sighed, “It is not you.” She stated simply, “It’s hard to explain… you wouldn’t believe me if I told you.”

Trish hopped onto the bed with one leg tucked under herself and the other hanging off the edge of the bed, “This is me you are talking to Sam, not some stranger.” She stated bluntly, “Don’t you trust me anymore?”

Sam looked at the girl to be greeted by a pained look in her eyes and let out a sigh of defeat, “Alright then, if you insist, but don’t blame me if I sound insane.”

“Wouldn’t make any difference.” Trish insisted, “I already know you’re insane.” She said with a grin.

Sam growled at the girl, “I’m not insane.” She swung at the girl only to have her duck out of the way and grab her hand.

Trish gazed into Sam’s eyes, “That is the Samantha I grew to love.” She said sweetly.

Sam flushed and pulled her hand away, “I… ummm…” She ran a hand through her hair in embarrassment.

Trish mirrored the flush and slid back in the bed, hugging the bed post and giving Sam some distance, “Sorry about that… too forward I guess… I feel so different since tell you about how I feel.” She glanced up at the girl, “I wish you could tell me what is bothering you, I want to be there for you.”

Sam lightly closed her eyes and rubbed her head, “It’s so confusing. I don’t know where to start.”

“At the beginning.” Trish insisted with a smile.

“If you insist…” Sam took a deep breath and let it out, “It started when my mother hit me with that vase.”

Trish nodded, “I noticed something was up at the hospital, is it some kind of brain damage?” She inquired worriedly.

Sam shook her head, “I don’t think so. I think those strange powers of mine just went into overdrive or something. Suddenly I found myself inside of someone else’s body.”

Trish thought this over, “Your mind hopped to someone else? Weird?”

Sam nodded again, “The person I ended up in was very helpful. She seemed to go through this kind of thing all the time and helped me back to my body.”

Trish smiled, “That was nice of her. I don’t know what I would do without you.” She said with a light flush, and then a shocked look crossed her face, “Wait? Was she the second soul that Beth was talking about?”

Sam was startled how quickly her friend put the pieces together and slowly nodded, “When I returned to my body our minds became linked and we shared thoughts and emotions.”

Trish suddenly clapped her hands together in triumph, “That’s why you kept looking so spaced in the hospital, you were talking to her weren’t you?”

Sam could not believe how quickly her friend was following all of this, “Yeah, she was helping me deal with everything that was going on and even helped me come to terms with the fact that I might actually like girls.” She let the last words drift away in a mere whisper.

Trish blinked at her friend, “You talked to her about us?” She inquired nervously.

Sam lifted her head quickly, “I was so upset about everything and when she asked me what happened it just all spilled out. The Meephit, you, mom, everything.” She stated agitatedly, “She turned out to also be gay and helped me through it all. She was very kind, but she turned out to be one year in the future.”

“The future?” Trish blinked in confusion, “How could she be in the future?”

Sam shrugged, “I don’t know, but I’ll never be able to see her again, because…” 

“Because?” Trish gazed at Sam, more at the mark above her eyes, “She is dead isn’t she?”

Tears welled up in Sam’s eyes as she lightly touched the scar, “I… I… think she was…” Tears flowed from her eyes and tumbled down her cheeks.

Trish quickly moved beside her friend and pulled Sam into her arms, “I’m here.” She cooed, “You don’t have to continue if you don’t want to.”

“I…I… can still see her mother bleeding on the floor.” Sam said between sobs, “and the blood on my hands. Someone… they…” She held her trembling hands out before herself, “They shot her and I c… couldn’t do anything to help her…” She buried her face in Trish’s shoulder as she let out a tried sob.

Trish held the girl tightly and allowed her to cry, stroking her back gently and whispering softly in her ear until Sam finally calmed down a little and lay her head upon Trish’s lap.

“You going to be alright?” Trish inquired worriedly.

Sam slowly nodded her head, “It is not as painful as it was a month ago, but today I realized that I lost the only connection I had to the girl, and the gift you gave me for my birthday.”

“Mom told me.” Trish remarked solemnly, “I’m sorry they didn’t find at the hospital, and I’m guessing you didn’t find it here either then?”

Sam shook her head, “I don’t know where it went, but she had one just like it so I think it is on its way to her.”

Trish reached behind herself and pulled something from her back pocket, “Here, you can have mine.” She held the pink bunny over her friend’s head and Sam sat up to get a good look at it, then at her friend.

“Really?” Sam said with more excitement then she desired.

“Maybe you can find your Meephit with it.” Trish suggested and set the toy in her friend’s shaky hands.

Tears welled up again in Sam’s eyes and she felt the familiar warmth of the toy in the palm of her hand. It was just like her toad and she got a strange feeling that this Meephit was the key to her tracking down Star. Shakily she pulled out the device from inside the toy’s chest and flipped on the switch at the back. Immediately the device came to life in her hand and started to scroll words across its digital display.

“Hello Samantha. How are you doing?” It said with a blinking heart shaped cursor blinking at the end of the sentence, awaiting her reply.

Sam blinked at the toy and glanced up her friend, “Did you tell this thing about me?” She inquired nervously.

Trish shook her head, “Not much, I just asked it about you a couple of times.”

Sam returned her gaze to the screen and shook her head, “I forgot how creepy this thing can be.” She remarked with a small, weak, chuckle and began to type her question.

“Do you know where Toader is?” She inquired of the machine and hit enter, waiting nervously as little hearts filled the screen.

“Yes.” It replied.

Sam could feel her heart racing at the thought that this might actually work and quickly asked the machine another question, “Could you tell me where he is?”

“No.” It stated simply.

“Why not?”

“Because he is in Fate’s Hands now.”

Sam growled at the device, “Tell me where Toader is.” She demanded aloud as she typed.

“I am sorry.” The device replied, “He is destine for a new owner.”

Anxiously she asked the machine what she already knew the answer, “Is Star the new owner?”

“Yes.”

Franticly she punched at the buttons, “Can you tell me where Star is?”

“Far from here.” It stated.

Sam snarled this time and tossed the device to the bed, “This thing is stupid. It won’t answer my questions.”

Trish picked up the toy and looked at it, “Maybe you didn’t ask it the right questions.” She implied and glanced down at the digital screen while thinking. “Hmmmm…. Is there someone who can help us?” Trish said as she typed her question.

“Yes.”

“Can you tell me who they are?”

“Yes.”

“Who is it?”

“Bethany.” Trish blinked at the screen and glanced up at Sam, “Do you think it means Beth?”

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 16

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter sixteen

Trish’s mind was a flutter with the story Sam had told her the other day. While she wanted to believe her friend she could just not fathom how something like this could have happened. She recalled the way Sam looked just before her scars appeared, the frightened and pained expression upon her face, as if someone had indeed shot her. There was no doubting that something strange had indeed happened, but what was she going to do about it. She stayed with Sam the entire night and allowed the girl to sleep in her arms, but needed to go to school in the morning. She did not want to leave her friend alone, but she had little choice. What was she going to do? Tell her mother that she needed to stay at Sam’s side because she is grieving for a future friend who recently died, would her mother even believe that? She promised that she would spend the weekend with Sam as she left for school.

She sat at the picnic table that lunch hour, munching on a sandwich, so deep in her thoughts that she did not notice as Beth took up the seat next to her.

“How is Sam doing?” She asked, setting a book down upon the table in front of her.

Trish blinked a few times and glanced over at the girl beside her, “Huh? Wha?”

“Sam?” Beth asked again, “How is she doing?”

Trish shook her head in dismay, “Not so good. She is depressed and I don’t know how to cheer her up.” Ever since the day Beth showed up at Trish’s house unexpectedly the two girls had grown steadily closer and Trish found the two of them talking more and more during the lunch hours. She was surprised to find that Beth was an ordinary girl with just an unusual taste in the darkness in others. She found herself opening up more and more to Beth and felt rather guilty for treating the girl so poorly during the first few weeks of their friendship. The two of them talked a lot about Sam and school and life, but mostly Sam. Trish was grateful to have someone to talk to for with Sam away she was left with only Lisa to talk to and just spending a few hours with the girl gave Trish a headache. Suddenly her eyes brightened as if she suddenly realized whom it was she sitting next too. 

“BETH!!!” She cried out and grabbed the girl by the sleeve.

Beth startled slightly, “What? I’m right beside you, you don’t have to yell.”

Trish glanced around herself to make sure no one was listening, “I need to talk to you.”

“Alright?” Beth brushed the girl’s hand from her sleeve, “What is this about?”

“Sam.” Trish stated, still glancing around herself, “Is there somewhere we can talk privately.”

Beth picked up her book and nodded over her shoulder, “Come with me.” She insisted.

Trish stuffed her sandwich in the brown bag it came in and hurried after the girl, “Where are we going?” She inquired, keeping pace with the girl as they walked around the school to the portables out back.

“I know a private place.” Beth simply explained, not saying another word. Soon they came to bush between two of the portables and she gestured at the bush.

“Here?” Trish craned her neck, but could not see over the bush.

Beth nodded, “It is the most private place on the school grounds, other then the washrooms.” She commented lightly, and then gave the girl a suspicious look, “or would you prefer the washrooms?”

“No no…” Trish stammered and then gave the girl a curious look, “How do you know this is private? Do you come here often?”

Beth rolled her eyes in irritation of the girl’s immaturity, “Grow up a little will you.” She quickly took the girl by the hand and pulled her through a break near the edge of the portable and the bush, “Don’t be smart and get in here before someone sees us.” She stated coolly as she shoved branches out of her face.

“Hey!” Trish called out as she is towed between the buildings.

The space between the portables was about a metre wide and well shaded by the buildings on either side and there was a long fence at the end blocking the back. When they were half way through the small walkway Beth let go of Trish’s hand and leaned against the wall of one of the portables, “So what is it you wished to speak in private about?” She inquired quietly.

Trish scratched her head and glanced around. Even though the buildings where only one room they were rather tall for they stood on cinder blocks and blocked out the sun, covering it in cool shadow. Beth was right about it being private and this made Trish even more curious about what it was that the girl used this area for.

Beth glared at the girl before her, “It is a make out area alright?” Beth stated bluntly, “Only a few people use it because there isn’t much of anything here and the teachers don’t bother looking down here ever so it is as private as we are going to get. So what is it you wanted to talk about, because I have a feeling you did not ask me here to make out with me?” Beth gave the girl a curious look, “Or is that was you wanted to talk to me about?”

Trish waved her hands defensively, “No no!!!” She exclaimed as a bright flush covered her face. “I just… I… Wait! Are you… gay?” She exclaimed as her mind slowly registered what the girl had just said.

Beth simply nodded, “Why else do you think I joined your little group? I can sense these things about people and you and Samantha give off more lesbian vibs then anyone else in the school, most of the other girls are either bi or bi curious.” She muttered the last bit in distain. 

Trish’s jaw dropped, “You said it was because you were trying to warn Sam.”

Beth nodded again, “That is true as well.” She admitted, “She has a powerful spirit and the fact that she is gay just gave me all the more reason to approach her. It is hard enough dealing with having psychic powers, being a lesbian as well just makes things all the more complex.”

Trish shook her head, “Okay this is just weird. Sam didn’t know she was gay until recently and you could tell before she could.”

“Samantha is a special girl.” Beth remarked, “She just needs to realize it first.”

Trish nodded, “Yeah she is special that is for sure.” She said with a sigh and leaned against the opposite wall, “I wish I could understand a little of what she is going through. I mean I can understand the whole lesbian thing, but this psychic thing is a bit too much for me. I was fine with her seeing ghosts and hearing animals talking, but now things are getting really strange.”

Beth watched the girl carefully, “Does this have to do with that second soul I saw in the hospital?” She inquired knowingly.

Trish nodded again, “She claims that her mind jumped into another girl’s body when she was hit with the vase and when she returned to her body their minds were linked.” Trish explained, lacing her fingers together in demonstration.

“Not uncommon.” Beth remarked with a slow nod, “Mind jumping is something that commonly happens when a psychic is under a lot of stress or their body is in danger.”

“And the linking minds thing?” Trish curiously asked.

Beth placed a hand to her lips, “That is different. I’ve heard about it, but never seen it myself. Who is this second soul?”

Trish shrugged, “I don’t know, she is dead.”

Beth blinked at Trish, “Dead? Was it a ghost?”

Trish shook her head, “Sam said the girl was from the future, one year from now, and she was murdered. Sam saw it all with her own eyes and it has really shaken her up.”

Beth let out a breath and started to pace and Trish found herself watching the way the girl’s dress bounced around her lace covered legs, the lace fringe swaying to and fro as she turned. Trish never had an interest in goth attire before, but the more she got to understand Beth the more she found the girl’s choice in cloths as more then just interesting and she had to pull her eyes away from the girl’s long legs as Beth began to speak again, “This is serious.” Beth said, not noticing Trish’s stares, “Having someone die while they are linked can be very damaging.” Beth stopped and glanced up at Trish as the girl’s eyes quickly snapped up to greet Beth’s, “Can I come over and visit?” She asked with curious concern, “I want to talk to Samantha in person.”

Trish shrugged and tried to wipe the flush from her face, “I don’t mind.” She stated as she glanced to the ground and kicked at a rock, “But Sam said doesn’t want to see anyone right now.”

Beth smiled brightly, “She will see me.” She insisted with a twinkle in her eyes that made Trish shiver.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 17

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Seventeen

After school Trish met up with Beth at her locker.

“You ready to go?” Trish asked the girl as she approached.

Beth stuffed a couple of books inside of her pack, “One second.” She zipped up the small black backpack with its white spider web embroidering, and threw it over her shoulder, “Let us be on our way then.”

“I have my bike, do you have a bike or do you want to double?” Trish inquired, pointing a thumb over her shoulder at the doors out of the school.

“Double?” Beth gave the girl a curious look, “Do you have a back seat?”

Trish shook her head, “Nope,” She grinned mischievously, “You’ll have to either sit on the front bar or stand on the back.” She stated as she turned towards the school exits.

Beth nervously followed, “Are you sure it is safe?”

Trish gave the girl another broad grin, “Sure it is. Sam and I do it all the time.” They reached the bike rack and unlocked her bike, “So what is it? Back or front?” She asked gesturing to the bike.

Beth glanced down at her short frilly black dress and at the back tire, “I don’t think I can stand on the back.”

Trish hopped on the seat and patted the front bar between the seat and the handlebars, “Then you’ll have to ride side-saddle.” She stated with a smile.

Beth glared at the girl, “You are enjoying this too much you know that?” She stated as she positioned herself next to the bike and prepared to hop onto the bar.

“Sorry.” Trish apologized half-heartedly; her eyes moving to the girl’s tight shirt with the heart shaped hole near the neckline that showed the girl’s cleavage and swallowed hard, “It’s just not every day you see someone like you riding doubles with someone like me.” She admitted shyly, moving her eyes from the shirt to the girl’s painted face.

Beth glanced up at the girl, “‘Someone like me’?” She inquired curiously, “A goth?” She said with a hint of hostility.

Trish shook her head quickly, “No…” Trish tried to think of the words that described what she thought of the girl, “You are more like a dark princess and I’m just white trash.” She said sheepishly as she pulled on her black t-shirt and gestured to her worn jeans, “I’m not exactly a prize catch now am I?”

Beth shook her head in disapproval, “You need to live in a trailer park to have that label.” She remarked with a smile, “And I think you are a rather nice catch myself.” She said with a nod that caused Trish to fluster.

“White suburban hell is close enough to a trailer park.” Trish stated in distaste, “I can’t believe you want to visit my place again after seeing it the first time.”

“It was not that bad.” Beth said as she wrapped an arm around Trish’s neck and hopped up on the bike, the long sleeves of her throw brushing the back of Trish’s neck causing her to shiver, “Is this making you feel like a prince or something?” She asked with a smile, which told Trish that the girl was well aware that her touch was affecting her and she let out a deep breath.

“Sort of.” Trish said with a shrug, trying to cover the fact that her heart was racing being so close to the girl, “Hold on.” She pushed on the pedals and they started to move across the schoolyard and over a small curb, which caused Beth to cling onto Trish even tighter.

Trish laughed and Beth looked up at the girl, “You are enjoying this, aren’t you?” She said stressing the ‘are’.

“Hold on tight.” Trish stated and pushed down hard on the pedals and they raced along the street, Beth clinging onto Trish with all her might.

******

Sam spent the day lying in her bed, longing to be rid of the feelings that weighed her down. She hated feeling down like this and wanted to go to school with her friends, but could not will herself to leave the room. The hours crept by and before long she heard a knocking at the door and sat up to greet the person.

“Come in.” She called out to her visitor.

Trish opened the door and entered, “Hey Sam. How you doing today?” She inquired.

Sam shrugged, “The same as yesterday I guess.” She shyly swept something from the blankets, “Thanks for staying with me overnight.”

Trish waved a hand at the girl, “No problem, what are friends for. Speaking of friends I brought someone to see you.”

Sam glanced at her pyjama clad body and back up at Trish, “Who?” She pulled the blankets over herself.

“It’s just Beth.” Trish stated simply, “I ask her about that second soul she saw in your eyes and she asked to see you.”

Sam stood to her feet and rushed over to Trish, “You told her? How much did you tell?” She asked urgently.

Trish raised her hands in defence, “Nothing much. I just told her about the fact that the girl is dead and you saw the murder. She said she might be able to help.” Trish insisted.

Sam sat heavily upon the bed, “I hope this doesn’t get out to the whole school.” Sam muttered to herself.

Trish sat next to the girl and wrapped an arm around her, “I don’t think Beth will tell anyone. She was more worried about how we would take her being a psychic then anything else. You can trust her.”

Sam looked at the girl suspiciously, “You’ve sure changed your opinion of her.” She said with a small smile, “I thought you didn’t like Beth?” She asked cynically.

Trish shrugged, “She’s alright, I guess.” She said as she got up from the bed and tried to cover the blush that covered her face, “At least she knows a lot more about this stuff then I do. Maybe she can really help.”

Sam got to her feet and studied her friends eyes, a smile broadening across her face, “You sure there isn’t something else? Did you just bring her here to see me?”

“Yes,” Trish said with a quick nod, “I was hoping that she would be able to help you and maybe have some answers to this mystery.” 

Sam let out a disappointed sigh, “Alright… let her in.” She said as she sat back down upon the bed.

Trish hugged the girl and started towards the door, “Beth? You can come in now.”

Beth entered the room and glanced around, “Wow, I have never seen so many stuffed animals.” She breathed, her eyes scanning the room in amazement.

Sam nervously smiled, “Trish rescued them from my old room.”

Beth continued to look around the room, “How are you doing in your new home?” She curiously asked.

Sam shrugged, “It’s alright. It’s a lot better then my old home that’s for sure. I’ve wanted to live here for as long as I can remember.” Sam admitted with a flush.

Trish equally flushed then retreated towards the door, “I’m going to find some chairs to sit on.” And without waiting for a reply she disappeared out the door.

Beth turned to face Sam and leaned with her hands upon the dresser, “So how are you really doing?” She inquired seriously, her eyes studying the girl closely.

Sam was taken back by the look upon the girls face, “A… alright… I guess…” She stammered and shuffled in her seat.

Beth let out a sigh, “I can sense your emotions so don’t pretend around me.” She insisted, “We are alike and I know it can be painful at times. I still remember how hard it was when my powers started to evolve on me. You do not need to fear me. I am here to help.”

Sam shrugged, “I don’t know what to say. It feels like my heart has been ripped out of my chest and the pain won’t leave me alone.”

Beth pushed off the dresser and looked into Sam’s eyes, “You were falling for her, weren’t you?” She inquired softly.

Sam backed up on the bed and her eyes darted around the room, “I… I… I don’t know…” She nervously said, wishing for some kind of escape.

Beth pointed at the mark above Sam’s eye, “Your link was much more then a simple coincidence and you know it, don’t you.” Beth stated bluntly, “If it was just anyone who you saw die it would not have scarred you like that. Only someone who touched your soul could leave a mark like that. Since you did not have time to talk long you either fell in love very quickly or she was your soulmate.”

“My… my… soulmate…” Sam lightly touched her chest, feeling the rift that was left behind when Star left her, “Is that possible? Do soulmates really exist?”

Beth nodded firmly, “I believe they do and that you stumbled across yours. The question is what are you going to do about it?”

Tears appeared in Sam’s eyes and wiped at them with the back of her hand, “I… I… don’t know… she is gone… I don’t even know where she is.”

Beth knelt in front of Sam and pulled her hands away from her eyes, “Trish said she was from the future.” Beth said, “One possible future.”

Sam blinked at the girl as she thought this over, “Y… you think I can find her again?”

“That is why I’m here.” Beth explained with a smile, “I will help you find her. I know we will find her.”

Sam sobbed and wrapped her arms around Beth’s neck, “Thank you…” She wailed, feeling a great relief at the thought of someone else wanting to help, someone who believes that she could find Star again.

“A…are you alright Sam?” Trish nervously inquired as she entered the room; two fold up chairs in her hands.

Sam broke free from the hug with Beth and rubbed at her eyes, nodding as she did, “Beth thinks we can find Star again.” She said between breaths.

Beth stared at the girl in shock, “Did you say her name was Star?” She inquired curiously.

Sam nodded, picking up a Kleenex from a box at the side of her bed and blowing her nose, then tossing it in a bucket by the bed, that was overflowing with crumpled Kleenex, “She said her name was Star and that she moved out here a short while ago and that her birthday is the same as mine.”

Beth stood to her feet, still staring at Sam in disbelief, “She is returning to Whetshones?” She muttered to herself and giggled nervously.

Trish set the chairs down and approached Beth, “Do you know the girl? Who is she?” She asked curiously.

Beth shook her head, “It cannot be possible, but it has to be.” She said more to herself as she became lost in her thoughts.

Sam quickly got to her feet and rushed over the Beth, placing both of her hands upon the girl’s shoulders, “Who is she? I have to know?” She pleaded, “If you know where she is then you have to tell me, please. I beg you.”

Beth backed away from the girl, slightly startled by her enthusiasm, “I might be wrong, but I think the girl you met is my cousin, I had to leave on your birthday because I was visiting her for her birthday.” She said uneasily, “What did she look like?”

Sam flopped down heavily upon the bed on her back, “She has the most beautiful long black hair and extremely white skin, even whiter then yours, and these incredibly blue eyes.” She said with a sigh, not noticing the hurt look in Trish’s eyes as she described Star, to busy thinking to herself about other details about the girl, “Now that I think about it she mentioned having a cousin who was a goth.” She sitting up to glanced a Beth, “Do you have a photo of her?” She insisted.

Beth shook her head, “Not on me, however there are a few at my place.”

Sam suddenly jumped to her feet again, “Can we go there? I have to make sure it is her.” She pleaded

Beth shrugged, “I guess you can visit. My mom is away on business so it will be alright.”

Sam rushed to her dresser and started pulling out a t-shirt, “I’ll get dressed right away.” She glanced from one girl to the other, “Could you two leave for a moment.” She shyly requested.

Trish frowned, “But you used to change in front of me all the time.” She protested.

Sam flushed, “Please.” She guiltily pleaded of her friend.

Beth turned Trish around, “Come on. You can see her nude later in life.” She stated as she pushed the girl towards the door.

Trish blushed brightly, “That’s not what I wanted.” She glanced at Sam, blushing even brighter, “Alright… I get it…” She said as she turned and reluctantly left the room.

Beth closed the door and glared at Trish, “You know you are going to have to give her some privacy now, don’t you?” She inquired seriously.

Trish sighed as she stared at Sam’s bedroom door, “I should have expected things to change. I’m just going to miss the days that we were carefree.” She started down the hall and down the stairs, into her living room.

“You do realize what will happen if she finds Star, don’t you?” Beth inquired worriedly.

Trish stopped in the middle of the room and lowered her head; “I’ll do anything as long as it… it… makes Sam happy.” Beth circled around the girl to see her vainly wiping at tears. She reached up to touch Trish upon the shoulder only to have the girl shrink away, “Don’t… I don’t need your sympathy.” She stated miserably.

“Come here you stubborn girl.” Beth insisted, pulling the girl into her arms, allowing Trish to fight her hug until she finally gave in and allowed herself to be held, “I know it hurts.” Beth said softly into the girl’s ear while stroking the back of her head, “It feels like someone tore out your heart and ground it into the floor. But you knew long ago that this might happen didn’t you?”

Trish nodded unhappily, “But it hurts more losing her to another girl.” Trish admitted through the tears, “I prepared for her being straight, but this is different and it hurts so much and now no one will ever love me.”

Beth shook her head, “No… that is not true.” She said with a sigh, cradling the girl’s head upon her shoulder, “You are cute and smart and sweet and kind. I know that someone will love you. You just have to know where to look. When you least expect it you’ll find the one you love.”

Trish stepped back from Beth and gazed into the girl’s eyes only to have the girl avoid her gaze, “Beth? Did you really join our group because of Sam?” She asked doubtfully.

Beth gave the girl a half smile, “Partly…” She admitted shyly, closing her eyes and shaking her head, “Nevermind.” She let go of the girl and stepped away.

Trish swallowed hard as her eyes moved over the girl’s features. She spent so much time rejecting the girl just because of her strange appearance that she never took a chance to really look at her until then. Under that white make up and silver piercing she could see a lovely girl who was trying so hard to hide from the world. Trish felt so guilty for not seeing the girl for who she was before, a beautiful girl in need of love.

Trish rubbed the back of her neck in embarrassment, “I… I’m sorry I treated you badly before.” She shyly apologized, “I… I…”

Beth simply smiled, “You were jealous and thought I was going to take Samantha away from you.” 

Trish rubbed the back of her neck, “Yeah… I guess…”

Beth stepped closer to the girl and whispered into her ear, “I was never interested in Samantha.” She said and then brushed passed the girl on her way towards the stairs.

Trish spun around, her words caught upon her lips, when she saw Sam come down the stairs, “S… Sam…?”

“I’m ready to go.” Sam confidently.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 18

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Eighteen

Diana was more then happy to hear Samantha’s request to go out with Trish and Beth. She told the girls they could stay all they like and to have a good time, before they left the house in search of their bikes behind the house. The three of them rode back to Beth’s apartment, Sam on her bike and Beth doubling with Trish.

So many questions and thoughts rushed through Trish’s mind as they pedaled the back paths of the neighbourhood on their way to Beth’s place. She loved Sam with all her heart, but Sam did not love her and she knew that, and yet Beth just admitted that she loved her, or at least she thought that was what Beth was doing, and this confused her.

She always thought her heart was settled on one girl and no other, but as she glanced down at Beth, the girl’s arms around her neck, she felt something different stir inside of her. The love she had for Sam was pure and while she was curious about what it would feel like to kiss the girl, the idea of going further always made her feel odd. She always saw Sam as a sister and she wondered if that might be why she loved the girl so dearly. That moment in the basement with Beth she felt something different. When the girl whispered into her ear a shiver ran through her like when the girl’s hand brushed the back of her neck. It ran through every part of her being and made her quiver all over, even her lips. She never felt her lips quiver like that before, while she wished for a kiss from Sam the sensation she felt for Beth at that moment was more of a longing.

Her eyes gazed down at the girl’s black glossy lips several times along their trip and she was feeling herself growing weak. Only months ago she hated the girl and now she wanted to kiss her. What was wrong with her? She felt so confused and Beth’s body close to her’s was not helping. She was glad when they finally arrived at the towering apartments and Beth finally let go of her neck and she panted uncontrollably.

“Are you alright?” Beth inquired of the girl.

Trish nodded, “I… haven’t doubled that far before…” She panted, covering up the real reason for her shortness of breath, trying hard to will her heart and mind to slow down, keeping her eyes upon the ground and off Beth.

“You can get something to drink in my apartment.” Beth offered, gesturing to the building in front of them.

Trish glanced up at the immense structure; still averting her eyes from the girl, and was startled by what she saw, “WOW!!!” She said in awe, “How many floors are there?” She asked as her eyes moved over the impressively expensive looking structure.

“Twenty-three.” Beth stated nonchalantly and pulled off her pack to retrieve a ring of keys from a small pocket on the side, “Come on up.” She offered opening a tinted glass door for the two girls and stepped up to a second glass door and turned the key in the lock, opening the second door for them to enter the lobby.

Trish’s eyes moved around the lobby as they crossed the room towards the elevators, polished dark black marble floors reflected her image back up at her and for a moment she caught a glimpse of Beth’s black panties under her skirt, noticing for the first time that her lace pantyhose were actually stocking and held up by black garter belts, quickly she glanced up in embarrassment at the walls, which were covered in a textured grey brick that gave the room the feel of a business office and not an apartment building.

“I didn’t know you were rich.” Sam said, mesmerized by the sheer size of the lobby.

Beth blushed under the makeup, “I am not rich.” She insisted, “Not poor, but not rich by far.”

“This place must cost a fortune.” Trish breathed as they approached grey steel doors of the elevators and she glanced up at the rows of lights above the elevator to see them light up as the elevators moved smoothly up and down.

Beth shook her head, “It is not that grand.” She stated wearily, “It is tiny when you see the inside of the apartment itself.” She said as she hit the call button and one of the elevator doors slid open silently. The interior of the elevator was covered in mirrors and ceiling lined with lights that lit up every corner of the tiny room. The floor was made of the same polished marble as the lobby and Trish’s eyes quickly moved up from the floor to the line of lights above the door, trying hard not to look around her as they entered the elevator. Beth pressed the one marked fourteen and they watched as the doors closed before them.

The elevator smoothly began to rise and Trish could feel her stomach drop slightly and grabbed hold of the silver railing that ran along the edge of the walls, “God, it moves fast.” She looked up at the display of numbers overhead as they blinked past and swallowed hard. Her hand slipped into Sam’s and held onto it tightly. The elevator slowed it accent and the doors opened, a red carpet rolling out in either direction in front of them.

“I was worried it wouldn’t stop?” Sam nervously confessed as she exited the contraption.

Trish followed the girl; hands still intertwined together, “To think we pay for rides like that.” She chuckled in nervously.

Beth blinked at the two girls, “That was nothing.” She said with a grin, “You should try to express elevator that runs from here to the very top. We can go up there later if you want, there is a pool up there that we can use if you like, you can see the whole city through the glass walls.”

Trish quickly shook her head, “I’ll pass.” She said nervously, “I’m not good with heights.”

Beth frowned, “Awww…” She said in disappointment, “It is something up there late at night, you should really see it.”

“Maybe another time.” Sam said, trying hard to force herself to smile as she glanced up at the ceiling, thoughts of the roof of this place in her mind.

Beth shrugged, “Well here we are.” She said stepping up to a door marked 1406 near the elevator and putting another key in the lock and opening the door, “Welcome to my home.” She greeted as she gestured to the entrance.

As the girls took off their shoes Beth moved to a kitchen off to the side of the main entrance and opened the refrigerator, “You want anything to drink?” She inquired, “Orange juice, water, a cooler or beer?” She held out a yellow wine cooler in one hand and beer bottle in the other.

Trish blinked at the drinks, “Should we be drinking those?” She nervously asked, “Won’t your mom get angry.”

Beth set the beer back in the fridge and twisted off the cap of the cooler, “She lets me drink these all I like, as long as I only do it at home.” She stated as she took a swallow of the drink and took another from the fridge and handed it to Trish, “Try one.” She insisted.

Trish took the drink in hand and stared at the label, “Is it safe?” She asked, reading over the label.

“Don’t be silly.” Beth said as she reached for another and held it out to Sam who shook her head.

“I shouldn’t.” She said pointing to the wound on her head, “I’m still taking pain killers remember?”

Beth winced in shame, “Sorry, I forgot.” She placed the drink back in the fridge and closed it, then moved through the exit at the other end of the kitchen, “Well, here we are.” She said as she entered the living room and gestured around her, “Welcome to hell.”

They entered a small room and all around them were colourful Technicolour paintings and rainbow coloured beanbag chairs. Grass skirts hung from the lamps, reflective disks hung in front of the balcony window, and beads over the hall entrance and a single bamboo table took up the middle of the room. The whole thing made the girls feel like they stepped back into the 60s or some bad retro movie. They gazed around the room in astonishment.

“Did your mom decorate the room?” Sam inquired curiously, playing with one of the disks near the balcony.

Beth nodded slowly, “This is what happens when you live with a hippy mother like I do. I hate it here, but I guess it could be worse.” She moaned slightly as she dropped into one of the beanbag chairs in the corner, near the balcony, and opened the balcony door a crack to let some air into the room.

Trish glanced down at the girl, “Is that why you dress like you do?” She inquired wanting to know more about the girl, “To rebel against this?”

Beth took a sip of her drink, “How can you rebel against something like this?” She said dismally, “Everything I do she approves of.” She pulled her hair over her ear to show off her ear full of earrings, mostly loops and studs, “She paid for most of these.” She said with a sigh of defeat and pulled up her shirt to expose her belly and tugged on a ring attached to her belly button, “She didn’t even flinch when I got this one. She is impossible at times.”

Trish found she needed to look away from the girl’s tummy, not out of disgust of the piercing, but more because she could not help staring at the girl’s tight stomach. She twisted off the cap of her cooler and took a drink without thinking. She was surprised to find the cooler actually tasted good, it was like drinking lemonade a hint of something else that she could not quite describe.

“This is good.” She admitted taking another sip.

“Don’t drink it too quickly.” Beth warned, “It might not have much alcohol in it, but it will give you a slight buzz after a while.”

Trish stared down at the girl and watched her suspiciously, “What happened to the way you talk?” She inquired curiously, “You don’t sound like you are from some old movie anymore.” She noted with a smile.

Beth flushed and squirmed in her seat, “You don’t think I talk like that all the time do you?” She asked cynically, “That is just how I act at school, very few get to see the real me.”

Sam smiled at the girl, “So we are some of the lucky few then?” She asked.

Beth shrugged, “I guess you have grown on me. Hell I don’t allow people to come over much either so consider yourselves special then.” She rolled out of the chair and crawled across the floor to a cabinet with a small TV atop of it and opened one of the cupboards, “You wanted to see a photo of Star didn’t you.” She inquired, changing the subject, as she pulled out a photo album with the same pattern as the posters on the wall, “There are some of her in here I think.” She said as she flipped through the pages of the book with her legs crossed and the album upon her lap.

Sam quickly moved to the girl’s side and glanced down at the album as Beth turned the pages and finally stopped on one page. Sam dropped to the floor as she spotted the photo of Star before Beth could point the girl out and pulled the album closer, “That’s her!” She exclaimed triumphantly, “That’s really her.” The girl was a year or two younger then she remembered her, but she could never forget those eyes or that hair.

Beth sat on the ground with her back against a wall, “I thought as much.” She said with sigh and gazed at Sam, “Are you sure you want to go after that girl? You have no idea the things she has been through.”

Sam nodded, picking up the photo album as she did, her eyes never leaving the photo of the girl, “Of course, I’ll do anything to see her in person.”

Beth scratched at the back of her head and glanced up at Trish, who was leaning heavily on the wall while drowning half of her drink, and then turned back to Sam, “Maybe I should tell you more about her before you make up your mind.” Beth suggested.

Sam glared over the photo album, hugging it close to her as she did, “No matter what you have to say I want to see her. You can’t scare me off.” She said with a hard stubbornness to her tone.

Beth raised a hand in defence, “I’m not trying to scare you, but you need to know that girl has a dark past and is very fragile.”

Sam continued to intensify her gaze upon the girl, “I don’t care. If you know where she is then tell me.” She begged, her eyes turning soft and filling with pain, “I need to see her, at least once.”

Beth sighed and held her drink between her knees, “You need to hear this, even if you don’t want to listen.” Beth stated coolly, “You need to understand what it is you are dealing with here.”

Trish sat down next to Sam and set a hand upon the girl’s shoulder, “Let her talk, she is not the enemy here.” Trish said sympathetically.

Sam let out a deep breath and looked down at the photo again, “I’m sorry… I just…”

Beth nodded, “I know.” She said with another sigh, “But you have to understand, Star is not like other girls. She has had it rougher then anyone else I’ve ever met.”

Trish glanced up at Beth, “What do you mean? Was she abused or something?”

“Worse.” Beth said dismally, “Her father tried to kill her when she was four years old.”

Sam cringed while Trish made a sound through her teeth, “Kill her? Why?” Trish asked, suddenly wanting to know more.

Beth took a swallow of her drink before continuing, “Not everyone can handle having a psychic child. I was lucky because my mom is also psychic.” She waved her arms around herself, “She is a local fortune teller and people pay her a lot of money to have their fortunes told.” She explained woefully, “While my mother took me away from my father the moment I started to show signs of psychic powers, living at carnivals and traveling all over, Star wasn’t so lucky.

“Star’s mother insisted that her daughter have a father figure. She ignored my mom’s warnings when birds started showing up on the windowsill outside of the baby’s window. She was convinced that her husband wouldn’t do anything to harm their child. However as Star got older she began speaking people’s thoughts out loud, without even knowing what they meant. Her father started referring to her as a freak of nature and wanted to take her to doctors to get her fixed, but her mother would not allow it. No one is sure what exactly happened but one day her father went insane and tried to drown Star in the tub. He was going on about how she was inside his head and they hauled him off to a Mental Institution. Somehow Star lived, but she changed from that day on. Her powers were more intense then even mine at her age and this frightened even her mother. So her mother took off with the girl and has been moving from town to town ever since.”

“Shit…” Trish breathed, unsure she believed the entire story.

“That poor girl.” Sam hugged the album close to her again, “Does she kept in contact with your mother at the very least?”

Beth nodded, “She drops by from time to time, to ask for money mostly, and Star writes me. Mom loved her sister dearly, hell I love her too and I don’t blame her for running. Mom helps her out whenever she can, but it has been rough on Star. She acts like nothing is wrong, but when she is visiting she I can tell that she is growing tired of the moves and you should hear some of the strange things she tells me about, things that would blow your mind.”

“Like what?” Sam inquired curiously, “She seemed to know a lot about psychic stuff.”

“That girl could write a book about the subject and she is only fifteen.” Beth remarked and took another drink of her cooler, “She has talked with ghosts, traded bodies with people and she can even control fire, to an extent. She writes me every now and then with new stories to tell and when she visits she shows me some new tricks that she has learned. I have to admit she scares me a little, but she is like a little sister to me.”

Sam gazed down at the photo of the innocent looking little girl whom she had come to call a friend, “Geez, I never thought about how hard it would be to be her. She seemed so in control and understanding. I’d never suspect that she had gone through so much.”

“That is what I find creepy about her.” Beth explained, “She acts like all of this is part of everyday life. She is not fazed by much of anything and talks about it as if it is something everyone goes through.”

“Maybe she doesn’t have anyone else to talk to.” Trish suggested, “And she trusts you.”

Sam nodded in agreement, “She told me she doesn’t have any friends and she seemed very lonely to me.”

Beth shrugged, “I can understand that, but she is so open about things it is unreal. When we went to visit her for her birthday she pulled me off to the side to tell me that she is attracted to a girl and even kissed her, but when they kissed her mind melded with the girl’s and the girl freaked out and ran off.”

Trish breathed in shock, “I don’t know how I would handle something like that. Having someone enter your mind all of a sudden and having your desires and fears exposed.” She shuddered, “I’d feel violated.”

Sam wrapped her arms around her knees, “That’s why she was so excited to meet me. I wasn’t scared of her being inside of my mind.” She mumbled more to herself.

Trish glanced at her friend, “What was it like? I mean to share someone’s mind?” She asked curiously.

Sam shrugged, “It is hard to explain. I could feel her everywhere I went and sometimes I could smell her. It was like she was a part of me and it made me feel…” She thought for a moment about the experience, “I felt whole.” She said with a smile.

Beth returned the smile and stood up, “Maybe you are the right girl for her.” She remarked and finished her cooler, and then glanced down to see Trish’s drink was finished, “You want another?” She offered, reaching out for the girl’s empty.

Trish suddenly noticed that she was holding an empty bottle and handed it out to Beth, “Sure, if it is alright.”

Beth took the bottle and looked down at Sam, “You sure you don’t want something to drink?” She offered, “Nothing alcoholic I promise you.”

“Maybe some juice.” Sam requested.

“Sure thing.” Beth retreated to the kitchen.

Sam looked down at the album again and touched the photo of Star.

“You really love her don’t you?” Trish said unhappily.

Sam nodded before she realized what she was doing and then shrugged, “I don’t know what I feel, but I have to see her again. I can’t let her die that way.”

Trish patted the girl on the shoulder, “I have a feeling you will see her again.” She said with a smile and then frowned and turned to face the kitchen, “Hey, Beth? Where is Star’s father now?”

Beth stepped out from the kitchen with a glass in hand as she filled it with from a pitcher of orange juice, “Last I hear he was still locked away. Not likely they would let him out after trying to kill a little girl.”

Trish turned back to the album, “That’s a relief.” She muttered, then lifted the page of the album and flipped through the pages, without turning the page on Sam. She stopped and looked at it sideways, “Sam? Can I see that?” She requested and the girl relinquished the book, keeping her finger on the page with Star’s photo. Trish turned to the photo that she spotted and stared at a old photo of a cute young girl with short mousy brown hair and black rimmed glasses, dressed in a frilly brightly coloured gypsy’s dress. She blinked at the photo a few times before she realized who it was she was looking at, “Beth, is this you?” She inquired pointing at the photo.

“Who?” Beth handed Trish another cooler and a glass to Sam, and then glanced down at the album and her eyes widened in shock and she snatched the album out of the girl’s hands, “Don’t look at that.” She demanded.

Trish set her drink down on the coffee table and got to her feet, “Why not?” She said with a grin as she reached for the album, “You don’t want us to know what a cutie you are without your makeup?”

Beth froze in place at what she was hearing, “Y… you think I’m cute.” She asking slightly flustered.

“Got it!!” Trish called out as she retrieved the album from the girl’s hands and flipped to the page again, turning it around to show Sam, “What do you think Sam?” She asked, holding up one hand to make sure Beth couldn’t steal the book away again.

Sam took the album and looked at the photo in question and then glanced up at Beth and smiled, “You are cute.” She agreed, “I always thought you had beautiful eyes. Why do you cover them up?”

Beth flushed and flopped down on a beanbag chair and gazed down at her hands, “A girl once told me I had beautiful eyes.” She said sorrowfully, “She told me all kinds of things, that I was beautiful and that she loved me and promised to never leave me.”

“And?” Trish asked as she lowered herself to the ground again and picking up her drink.

“I caught her kissing a boy during the Junior High Prom.” Beth said miserably.

Trish paused with her bottle at her lips and lowered it, “I’m sorry. She doesn’t deserve you.” She stated coldly.

Beth forced herself to smile, “Well, I decided to hide my eyes from people from then on and let my bangs grow over the summer.” She turned away from the girls and stared at the wall.

Trish moved closer to Beth and set a hand upon the girl’s leg, causing the girl to turn and look back at her. She reached out towards the girl only to have her flinch away, “I just want to see, you let Sam see your eyes, why not me?” Beth sighed and brushed bangs from her eyes and for the first time Trish got a good look at the girl’s green eyes and let out an awed breath, “Your eyes are gorgeous.” She breathed, not taking her eyes off the girl.

Sam smiled, “See I told you so.”

“I wish you wouldn’t hide them.” Trish said, still looking the girl in the eyes.

Beth blushed so deeply that it could be seen through her makeup and dropped her hand, allowing her bangs to fall back into her eyes, “I think the cooler is talking.” She stated sceptically.

Trish looked at the bottle then back at the girl and shook her head, “I don’t feel it.” She said, then moved back upon her knees and looked between her two friends and then around the apartment, “When is your mother returning, anyway?” She inquired curiously.

Beth shrugged, “Not for the weekend.” She stated simply, “She is off at a fair right now.”

Trish gave the girl a sly grin, “Why don’t we have a slumber party?” She suggested.

Sam lifted her head in surprise, “Today? Here?”

Trish nodded, “Why not? You missed your birthday sleepover and I bet mom wouldn’t care if we stayed the night, if she doesn’t know about Beth’s mother being away that is.” She turned back to Beth, “What do you think? Can we stay?” She pleaded, partly begging.

Beth shrugged again, “I don’t mind, but we don’t have much to sleep on other then a few sleeping bags, if you don’t mind sleeping on the floor then its alright with me.”

Trish clapped her hands together excitedly and hopped to her feet, “I’ll give mom a call and tell her the plan.” She glanced around a couple of time, “Where is the phone?”

“Here…” Beth said uneasily and reached up to a globe next to the TV and lifted part of the base, revealing a receiver and causing the globe to light up like a strange crystal ball and held it out to Trish, “You still want to stay here.” She asked while eyeing the globe in embarrassment and holding the phone out.

Trish nodded as she took the phone and turned it over to find the buttons glowed rainbow colours and smiled, “It is kind of neat actually.” She giggled and began to dial.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 19

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Nineteen

Trish’s mother told them they could stay the entire weekend if they wished, simply happy to hear Samantha was getting out of the house finally. Trish told her mother that they would see how the night went and if things go well they may stay longer, if so they would return for some clothes and tell her all about their night at Beth’s. Diana agreed and told her to have fun and Trish gave her mother Beth’s number, as Beth spoke it out for her, before hanging up and telling the girls that the slumber part was on.

They spent the night watching movies that Beth owned, some horror movies and some vampire flicks, while curling up in a couple of sleeping bags, Beth planning to sleep in her bedroom while the two sleep in the living room, and talking about every thing from school to who else they thought was gay at school, Beth telling them if they were right or wrong. Before long the sun had faded away and so did Sam. Trish leaned over her friend and smiled down at the girl’s sleeping face.

“She’s fast asleep.” She whispered to Beth.

Beth looked at the girl’s sleeping form and grinned, “She looks so peaceful.” She said softly, “I can see why you fell for her.”

Trish’s smile twitched and she rubbed the back of her neck in embarrassment, “I can’t remember how many times I watched her sleep like this.” She admitted sheepishly.

Beth looked at the girl seriously, “I’m sorry she can’t return your feelings.” She said sincerely.

Trish brushed Sam’s hair out of her face, “That is alright. As I said I figured this would happen. I’m just glad to see her smiling again. Thanks to you, thank you for everything you have done for her.”

“No problem.” Beth returned nonchalantly.

Trish slowly stood up and felt slightly wobbly, needing to grab the wall to stable herself, “Maybe I had too many of those coolers.” She admitted with a soft giggle.

Beth lifted up an empty bottle and looked at the small drop inside, “You only had six or seven. This is your first time isn’t it?” She inquired with a sly smile.

Trish did not notice the smile as she nodded and held her head, “Woah… I need to go to the washroom. I’ll be right back…” She slowly moved down the hall, passed Beth and her mother’s room, to the washroom.

Beth rolled over on her back as Trish left the room and stared up at the ceiling. She had several coolers herself, but was not feeling the effects as of yet. She kept to light liquor as the heavier stuff tended to send her powers out of control and she didn’t need another incident like that first time. Even though she still wasn’t feeling the drinks she was feeling something and she cursed herself for it. She bit down upon her lower lip as she tried to control the raising feeling that had been building up inside of her since she pulled Trish behind the portables at school. She could feel the coolers had weakened her control over her urges and was afraid that if she did not keep herself in check she may end up kissing the girl before the night was out and she did not want to scare the girl off so soon after she started warming up to her.

She knew that Trish didn’t have feelings for her at that moment, but she could see that the girl was at least noticing her now, unlike when they first met. She wanted so badly to get to know Trish, and felt ashamed of using Sam to get closer to the girl. She just did not have the strength to walk up to Trish and tell her how she felt. She had told herself before the school year began that she would keep her heart under control, but she couldn’t help herself. There was just something about Trisha that she could not explain. She rolled over again to glance down the hall at the light under the washroom door and quivered at the thought of the girl using her washroom. She shook her head of the thoughts that tried to invade her mind and sat upright, taking several deep breaths in an attempt to clear her mind.

Unable to get her head in check she got to her feet and moved to the balcony where she quietly opened the sliding glass door and stepped out onto the cool cement ground and looked out over the city. The sun had descended long ago leaving a star filled sky hanging overhead. There were no clouds so the moon provided enough light for Beth to see the park below the, the trees creating long shadows in which animals most likely played. She breathed in the cold night area and allowed it to clear her head. She took a couple more breaths when she heard someone moving through the blinds behind her and spun around to see Trish standing on the balcony, staring out at the city.

“Wow…” She breathed as she gazed out at the sea of stars, “It’s beautiful.” She approached the railing and glanced down to quickly back up again, “God, we are high up.” She said in a panic.

Beth rushed to the girl’s side to steady her, lowering Trish to a plastic garden chair, “Easy there.” Her hand touched the girl’s bare leg and for the first time she noticed that Trish had removed her pants. Sam had removed her pants before curling up in the sleeping bag and Beth figured that must have been the girl’s plans after returning from the washroom she was just ready to find the girl sitting before her with no pants on. She quickly removed her hand and forced herself to look the girl in the eyes. “Calm down, there is nothing to worry about.” She assured the girl, as well as herself. 

Trish held her hands in her head, “I feel dizzy. I forgot we were so high up.” She said shakily.

Beth knelt next to the girl and place a hand on Trish’s shoulder, “Do you want me to help you back inside?” She inquired concernedly.

Trish nodded, “I hate heights.” She stated miserably, “Sorry…”

“Its quite alright.” Beth insisted as she took Trish by the arm and slowly helped her to her feet, “Don’t look over the railing.” She warned as she stirred the girl away from the edge, “Just look at me.” She said carefully luring the girl back towards the balcony door, “Easy there, watch your step.”

Trish did as she was told, however tripped as her last foot passed through the door and stumbled into Beth, and they both tumbled onto a beanbag chair, giggling and shhing each other. Beth found herself pinned under Trish, but didn’t mind the feeling. She swallowed hard as she realized that they were nose to nose together and she could feel that growing urge inside of her even more then before.

Trish brought a hand up to Beth’s face and brushed a hair from the girl’s face, “You really are beautiful.” She said in awe, “I was such an idiot not to notice it before.” She lowered her eyes in shame of herself.

Beth flushed, “Now the coolers really are talking. You don’t mean that.” She lightly pushed at the girl’s shoulder.

Trish leaned in closer to the girl, “I do mean it.” Her lips lightly brushed against Beth’s and Beth could not hold back any longer. She wrapped her arms around the girl’s neck and kissed lightly upon the upper lip. Trish did not recoil and returned the kiss. Tongues slipped between lips as the two girls slipped into a passionate kiss. Beth could feel their saliva moving between their mouths and lightly ran a hand up the back of Trish’s shirt, causing the girl to softly moan. She could feel the softness of her cotton panties and this made her shiver in delight. She broke free from the kiss to gaze into Trish’s eyes.

“I want you.” She breathed, her hand running along Trish’s side, under her bra strap.

Trish suddenly sat up on the girl’s lap, a bright flush covering her entire body, “You what?” Trish asked perplexedly, unsure if she heard the girl correctly.

Beth sat up and pulled Trish’s legs around her waist, running a hand along her bare skin of her legs, “Make love to me.” She pleaded, lightly kissing the girl on nap of the neck.

Trish squirmed at the sensation of the girl’s lips upon her flesh and glanced down at Sam’s sleeping form, “But what about Sam?” She inquired worriedly. Surprised to hear herself saying such a thing. Not putting a stop to things, but just worrying about her friend hearing them.

Beth looked down at their sleeping friend and down the hall, “My room.” She insisted, forcing Trish to stand and taking the girl by the hand.

“I… I’m not sure about this…” She said nervously, suddenly aware of what she had just agreed too, “I’ve never…” She flushed again.

Beth opened her bedroom door and pulled the girl inside, “You have masturbated haven’t you?” She bluntly asked, closing the door behind her, leaving only the light of the moon to guild their way. She stepped up to Trish, wrapping an arm around the girl while her other hand slid under the front of the girl’s shirt and along the band of her panties.

Trish swallowed hard, “Well… yeah… but…” Trish’s protests were cut off by another intense kiss from Beth that made every part of Trish’s body quiver with anticipation of more. Beth’s hand moved under her panties and touched pubic hairs causing Trish to quickly back up and nervously wiped at her face with her hand and swallowed again, “Are you sure about this?” Trish stammered ever so slightly, “I mean, don’t you want to wait until it is someone you love? Some who really loves you?”

Beth stopped and stared at Trish with a mixed look of confusion and grief, “You don’t want me?” She asked woefully, “I thought you said I was beautiful.”

Trish reached out to take the girl’s cheeks in her hands, “You are beautiful and I think I could love you, but I want to get to know you.” She explained firmly, “Right now I want to be there for Sam and I want my first time to be something beautiful and not rushed.”

Tears splashed over Beth’s eyes and ran her mascara down her cheeks, “What are you saying?” She asked in confusion.

Trish rubbed the back of her neck, “I think I’m saying I want to date you first. If that would be alright with you?”

“You mean like girlfriends?” Beth inquired hesitantly, “Real girlfriends?” A nervous smile crossed her face.

Trish nodded, “If you want to date someone who is in love with their best friend that is?”

Beth smiled and hugged Trish tightly, “I would like that.” She whispered into the girl’s ear, tears steadily streaming down her face.

Trish backed up slightly and smiled at the girl, “Want to watch another movie together?” She asked with a nod to the door.

Beth nodded and picked up a Kleenex from a box on her dresser and then got a look of herself in the mirror, “Shit I look horrible.” She said as she dabbed at her eyes.

Trish smiled, “No you don’t. Why don’t you wash up while I pick another movie? Anything you want to see?” She asked as she led the girl into the hall and towards the washroom.

“You choose.” Beth suggested and then spun around to give Trish another quick kiss on the lips, “Thank you.” Beth said as she disappeared into the washroom.

Trish lightly touched her lips and smiled. This was her first kiss and it was wonderful. She suddenly realized that she had a girlfriend and skipped down the hall to the living room where she picked through the tapes in search of what to watch.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 20

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Twenty

Sam awoke to find her two friends asleep in the same sleeping bag, arms wrapped around one another, and smiled at the image. She was thankful to see that Trish had finally overcome her issues with Beth and found someone to love her at the same time. Trish was slightly embarrassed to find Sam watching her as she awoke and even more so when she discovered Beth in her arms. She recalled the night’s events and a nervous smile crossed her face. Sam probed her and Beth as to what happened while she slept, but neither girl would speak a word and laughed the more Sam insisted they give her details. The three of them spent the entire weekend together. They returned to Trish’s home to gather some clothes and other things for the weekend and told Diana their plans before returning to Beth’s place where they spent the day playing board games, watching movies and filling up on snacks.

Sam never felt more alive in her life and was so happy that she came to Beth’s place for the weekend. Beth filled Sam in on more details about Star, telling her stories about what the girl was like as a child, telling her everything she could think of would interest Sam, even brought out some more photos and the letters she had collected from the girl. The more Sam learned about Star the more she wanted to meet her. During those two days they put together a plan of how to get Sam and Star together again.

It was decided that Sam should wait at least a year before she approached Star. She needed to wait until Star connected with Sam in the future or everything would go to hell. One slip up and Star might not get Sam’s Meephit or have her mind linked to Sam’s and it was that link that truly brought the two girls together, without it Sam would be just another girl and Star might run off, too scared to even make friends. Sam did not like the idea of waiting, but she understood. If she walked up to the girl too early she might change things in the past so much that she would forget her experiences with Star entirely, and she did not like that possibility.

During the sleepover Sam made up her mind to return to school. If she was going to have to wait an entire year before seeing Star she might as well keep her mind busy or she would drive herself insane. During school Beth also helped her deal with her psychic abilities, teaching her how to block out certain feelings and during lunch hour they played a strange kind of game dealing with people’s auras. Beth would ask Sam to pick out someone from the crowd and focus on the person until she could see their aura, without entering the person’s mind. It was hard work, but if she was going to live with these powers then she would need to gain some control over them. Beth became a very close friend over the passing months, keeping at Sam’s side during class change, making sure she didn’t get too overwhelmed by the surge of emotions that filled the halls. She was even kind enough to bring by new letters that Star wrote to her, telling Sam all about the girl’s life and what she was up to at that moment. Knowing that Star was indeed alive was like a large weight was lifted from her heart and she felt like she could finally live again.

Beth and Trish became closer with every passing day. They would sit beside each other during lunch and Trish tried to follow Beth’s lessons for Sam, asking a question every now and then. They went out on many dates, sometimes going out alone and others staying over night with Sam. Sam sort of felt like a third wheel and was embarrassed by this, but both girls insisted that she come a long at times and Beth teased that she could bring Star along when they met up and they could go doubles in the future. The notion of four of them going out together made Sam flush and she truly hoped it would be possible, but kept in mind that things might not work out between her and Star, as well as they have been for Trish and Sam, but she kept a small amount of hope in her heart.

Diana was more then happy to see her daughters so happy. She could see the changes in both girls and even inquired of Trish as to her relationship with Beth. Diana was very nice to Beth, inviting her over for dinner every now and then. She only warned the girl that she should be careful and not to go too quickly. She did this in front of all three girls, making sure that even Sam understood that she loved her as much as Trisha and wanted them to come to her if they ever needed.

She was more of a mother to Sam then her own mother ever was. The court hearing involving her parents divorce happened in the late months of winter and Sam was nervous that she would be called in to testify against her mother. She had to talk to a number of psychologists about the issue and how it all made her feel. She was scared out of her mind of her mother’s wrath and wished that she could just stay with Diana and Trish. Diana accompanied her to every one of the meetings and comforted her through some of the hardest times in her life. The doctors assured her that she would not have to go onto the stand, but the more information she gave the safer it would be for her, for they would make sure her mother could not even have visit her again. 

The only sad change to her life involved Lisa. Upon learning about Trish and Beth’s dating she suddenly changed her attitude and became very vicious towards the girls. She called them names and said they were disgusting, insisted that Sam never speak to the girls ever again. When Sam explained that she too liked girls Lisa threw a fit in the middle of the lunchroom, throwing her tray of food at Sam and screaming at her, tears streaming down her face. Then she ran off and never returned to their group. Sam occasionally saw the girl in the halls but was only greeted with a middle finger or the girl screaming, “Dyke”, in her face. This saddened Sam slightly, but she realized that she would have to deal with something like this sometime in her life and she refused to allow Lisa to destroy her happy feelings. She needed to think of Star at that moment and she didn’t have time to deal with the girl’s immaturity.

Over the months, between studies, the three of them planned what they were going to do about that final dreadful day. They all agreed that they couldn’t confront the man or they might end up dead themselves, and what would that accomplish? Sam kept her eyes on the newspaper, looking at every photo of wanted criminals in search for someone who looked familiar, only to find nothing. Beth probed Sam’s memories of that last day in search for any information that might help them, what time was it when Star entered the house, where exactly was Star’s mother laying, was the door unlocked, and so much more. It was very stressful for Sam, but she tried her hardest to recall every last gruelling detail. As the school year began to crawl to an end she was started to get frustrated and afraid that she wouldn’t be able to save her friend after all.

Then one day near second semester exam time Beth came running up to Sam and Trish at their lunch table. She had stopped painting her face white and trimmed her bangs back during Christmas, but her hair was still dyed black and pink and still wore her trademark black attire and silver earrings. Trish gave the girl a quick kiss before Beth turned to Sam, a serious look upon her face.

“We have trouble.” She stated worriedly, she held a letter shakily in her hands.

“What is it?” Sam inquired worriedly.

Beth slid in next to Trish, across from Sam, and put the paper on the table in front of Sam,  “I just heard from Star and it is not good. Her father was released from the hospital and was seen around her place. Her mother is packing up their things and moving again.” She said while franticly poking at the piece of paper.

“Where too?” Trish inquired, already knowing the answer.

Beth pointed at the new address on the page, “Recognize this?” She asked tapping the page before her.

Sam starred at the address in shook and glanced up at Beth, “Are you sure about this?” She inquired uneasily.

Trish breathed, “This can’t be possible… that’s…” She glanced between the two girls, “Sam’s old place…”

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 21

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Twenty-One

That evening after Beth received Star’s letter the three girls visited Beth’s place, to confirm with her mother that Star was indeed moving to Whetshores. Beth’s mother, whom insisted they refer to her by her first name, Jasmine, was a kind young woman in her late twenties who dressed in complete contrast to her daughter’s dark attire, tending to wear a lot of long light pastel dresses that had many ruffles and her long brown hair held up by a bandana tie-dyed bandana. Next to each other it was hard not believe that they two were actually mother and daughter unless they looked very closely. The only similarity between the two was their green eyes and taste for lots of jewellery. Jasmine seemed to match her daughter’s attraction to earrings with an equal attraction to large bracelets that jingled as she walked. She claimed that several helped her control her own “gift”, she always referred to psychic powers as a “gift” and was not ashamed to mention that she held more then a few talents when it came to future telling and the like.

Trish and Sam had met the woman on several occasions, but never for very long for she was a very busy woman and always running out the door. She was very accepting of her daughter’s chooses in life and hugged Trish when she was told that the two of them were dating, telling the girl that she was welcome to visit at anytime and fussing over how good her daughter’s taste in girl’s were, causing Trish to flush brightly.

Beth’s mother blinked at the group of girls as they stood at the door to the kitchen, Beth up front with Trish and Sam behind her, asking about Star’s new home, “How did you know about that?” She inquired curiously as she glanced from one girl to another.

Beth held out the letter to her mother, “I got a letter from Star. She said she was returning in a couple mothers is that so?”

Jasmine dried her hands, which were wet from washing dishes, and took the letter from her daughter, “Indeed it is true.” She smiled at her daughter, “I was going to tell you closer to their arrival. Mary-ann said she wanted to wait until Star’s graduation before moving, but wanted everything set up before they moved so I have been helping out. I found them a nice little duplex on Pine Crescent that was just perfect for them.” She said proud of herself, her eyes moved across the shocked faces of the girl’s before her,

“What about her father?” Beth inquired worriedly, “Is he really out of jail?”

Jasmine was startled by this news; “I didn’t think Mary-ann told her daughter about that.” She said with a sigh and set the towel down, “Mary-ann spotted the man nearby and that is why they are moving.” She glanced down at the letter again, reading it a little more carefully this time, “But I guess you already know that.”

“Aren’t the police going to do anything?” Sam inquired, “Can’t they stop him?”

“They are doing what they can.” Jasmine explained scratching her head in frustration of the situation, “But he hasn’t done anything yet so they can only give him a warning and not much more. He claimed he just moved into the area and it was an accident that they crossed paths so there isn’t much that can be done.”

“There has to be something.” Beth interjected.

“Alright you three, what is up?” She inquired curiously, “You can’t lie to me so don’t try it. Why are you all so interested in Star and her father all of a sudden? I noticed the photo albums have been moved a lot recently, but I thought it was just Bethany,” She always called the girl’s by their full names, “showing Trisha her photos, but now I’m starting to wonder.”

Beth took a deep breath and glanced over at Sam, “Sam?” She inquired of the girl.

Sam shrugged. She could not tell Diana about what was going on, but Beth’s mother was another psychic so maybe the woman could help in some way. She licked her lips nervously and let out a long breath before speaking, “I saw something about Star and I’m afraid for her life.”

Beth’s mother smiled brightly, “I knew you were one of us the moment I set eyes upon you. You have such a strong aura and such a kind heart, but you do realize that not all prolific dreams come true right?”

Sam nervously danced in her place, “It wasn’t a prolific dream…” She started to say when Beth jump in.

“Mom, this is much more complicated then prolific dreams.” Beth stated urgently and quickly explained the entire situation in words that her mother could understand, using every bit of psychic terminology that she could muster, not allowing room for her mother to interrupt. Her mother’s eyes widened with every passing minute that her daughter spoke, her hands moving to her mouth in shock as Beth told her everything from Sam being hit over the head by her mother to her cousins demise, in as much detail as she could muster without distressing Samantha too much. Only when she was finished the story did she give her mother room to speak, however the woman only stood there in stunned silence slowly shaking her head and staring at Sam with a bewildered look upon her face. Suddenly she pushed passed her daughter and dropped to her knees in front of Sam, her hands landing upon Sam’s shoulders, tears in her eyes.

“I’m so sorry…” She whispered softly, “No child should have to experience something like that so soon after developing their gift… It is just… just…” She could not finish her words and simply pulled Sam into her arms and held her tight and hugged her.

Sam’s mind instantly became a flutter of images of Beth’s mother through the years, images of a child being pushed to the ground and having rocks thrown at her to her running through the streets with a child in her arms. Sam had to pull away from the woman, staggering from the surge of emotions that filled her and nearly falling to the ground.

Beth quickly stepped in beside the girl and helped her to a beanbag chair, her eyes angry upon her mother, “What the hell did you do to her?”

Her mother seemed shocked and confused, “I just wanted to give her a hug to let her know she is welcome here.”

Sam waved a hand at her friend, “It… is… alright…” She panted as she tried hard to shake the feelings from her, “I just wasn’t ready for that.”

Beth stood to her feet and glared at her mother, “Sam is very powerful and when she is near an extremely emotional source she is like a sponge. You have to be more careful around her. I thought you would know that.” She shook her head in disbelief of her mother’s actions.

“I’m sorry.” The woman sat upon a dinning chair next to the door to the kitchen and rubbed her forehead, glancing around sheepishly at the girls; “I just get so emotional when I see a child in need that I sometimes forget.” She stated sheepishly.

Beth rubbed her forehead, “Sometimes I wonder about you mother.” She said in distain.

Trish suddenly stepped forward, “So what do we do now? We know she will be moving in to Sam’s old place so do we tell them now or what?”

Beth’s mother shook her head, “If I understand fully what Sam experienced we are walking on thin glass and we have to be very careful how we handle this.” She explained worriedly.

“Can we call the police?” Trish inquired anxiously, “They will believe you over us, won’t they?” She almost begged.

Beth’s mother gave a weak smile to the girl, “I wish they would, but it is not that easy. I’ve tried to warn them about danger before, but they just laughed.” She thought for a moment and then looked around as if she had an idea, “I know…” Without finishing her sentence she got up from her seat and went to her room, leaving the girls to glance at each other in confusion. When she returned she was holding a small photo, “I don’t know why I kept this, but maybe it will come in handy.” She handed the photo to Beth who stared at it perplexedly, “It is Star’s father.” She stated in distaste and the girl’s all let out a breath of shock, each trying to get a good look at the photo in Beth’s hands. The man looked like nothing special. He was a thin man with a long drawn out expression upon his face. He eyes were small behind a pair of black-rimmed glasses. His hair was thin and black, parted neatly upon his head and he wore a blue business suit.

Sam starred at the photo and recalled the silhouette of the man that shot her friend, “That’s him.” She muttered in anger and fear.

Beth glanced up from the photo, “Are you sure?” She asked, holding the photo closer to Sam, “This is who you saw?”

Sam nodded, “I’m almost certain of it, I only saw his shadow, but I think it was him.” She said hesitantly.

“Take the photo in your hands.” Beth’s mother insisted, “If he really is the one who murdered my sister and niece we must be absolutely sure of it. Since you have such a connection with the events ahead maybe you will see something that will help us track him down.”

Beth pulled the photo away from Sam and looked at her mother. “Is that such a good idea, mom?” She inquired worriedly, “I haven’t had time to teach Sam how to object read and it could be more then she can handle.”

The woman nodded, “Let Sam decide for herself. She will have to learn clairvoyance soon enough.” She turned to Sam, “What do you think?”

Sam swallowed hard as she looked at the photo, over the past while she only gained a small glimpse of things when she picked up an object belonging to someone else. For the most part it was blurry and only a quick flash so nothing to worry about much and she figured that touching the photo might be a good idea. Maybe she would get a fleeting image of where the man was and they could stop him before he could hurt Star, “I want to save Star.” She insisted while reaching out for the photo.

Beth seemed reluctant to give the girl the photo, “You sure this is a good idea?” She inquired uneasily, but when she saw the insistence in Sam’s eyes she knew there was no arguing with the girls and handed the photo over.

The moment Sam’s fingers folded around the photo her eye suddenly blurred and she had a sensation of floating. Suddenly she became aware of someone else and she looked around to find herself in a small field, standing beside a tree. Her breathing was coming out sporadically, as if she had just run a great distance and she could feel the bark of the tree under her fingertips.

Within moments Sam realized that she somehow was seeing through Star’s father’s eyes, if it was the present or the future she was not certain, but it was clear that the man was trying to hide from something and she could feel anxiety fill her, along with the feeling of sweat upon her brow and her heart pounding out of control. Then she saw her, Star was walking along a path to her right, schoolbooks in hand as she quickly moved on her way, looking no younger or older then she remembered the girl telling Sam that this must be the present or close to it. The man ducked behind the tree and Sam lost track of the girl, only too see her again through the branches of the tree. He watched her for a moment and Sam could sense fear overcoming the man just at the sight of the girl. His hand slipped into his pocket and brushed against something cold and solid, wrapping around it and looking down at a bunt end of a pistol.

((NOOOOO!!!))) Sam screamed out and shoved at the man, wanting nothing more then to hit him, but instead she shoved too hard and pushed herself out of the man’s body. Seconds later she found herself laying upon the floor of Beth’s living room, a scream upon her lips and she sat bolt right up.

“What did you see?” Beth probed nervously, helping the girl to a beanbag chair.

Sam found it hard to breath as she gasped for air, she could still feel the grip of the gun in her hand and the sweat upon her forehead and wiped that, her fingers stopping on the bullet scar and running around it surface as anger filled her heart.

Beth’s mother rushed over to the girl with a glass of water,  “Here drink this.” She insisted, holding the glass out to the girl.

Sam took the drink gratefully and whispered a thank you before downing half the glass.

Trish worriedly approached the girl, “Are you alright?” She inquired, watching her friend carefully.

Sam nodded, “I wasn’t expecting that at all.” She said between pants, taking another drink of water, a small sip this time.

“What happened?” Beth asked again.

Sam glanced up at her friend, fear in her eyes, “He is watching her… he is watching Star…” She said between breaths and then looked up at her friends, “And he has a gun.”

*****

The night grew close as they sat around Beth’s apartment, thinking over their options. Jasmine mother called up Diana to explain that the girl’s were staying over for dinner and maybe overnight, then ordered Chinese food for them all. They sat around the small square fold up dinning table in the corner, near the kitchen, talking over how they were going to stop this tragedy from happening.

“Well, we know that they are safe until September, at the very least.”  Jasmine said as she scooped out some rice onto her plate.

“That is what we figured.” Beth stated then took a bite of a fried chicken leg and swallowed, “But what are we supposed to do on the eighteenth?”

Jasmine thought for a moment, “We can’t warn Star or Mary-ann that is for sure. If we tell them then they will simply run away again and we’ll never catch that bastard.” The woman covered her mouth in embarrassment, “Sorry girl.” She apologized for her language.

Trish laughed, “We have heard worse then that at school.” She stated with a giggle.

Sam sighed, “Yeah, between Lisa and her friends I’ve heard almost every insult I can.” She stated miserably.

Jasmine looked between the girls with worried eyes, “Are the kids at school bothering you girls?”

Beth shrugged, “Nothing we can’t handle.” She insisted, “Just one of our old friends not taking to well to Trish and my relationship.”

Jasmine eyed the girl’s closely, “You sure there is nothing I can do to help? I can come down there and give them all the ‘Evil Eye’ for you.” She said with a broad grin that made the girl’s laugh. After a moment of laughter her face turned serious again, “We really need to come up with a plan. We can’t take this guy on head on and since the police won’t help, so we are pretty much on our own.”

Beth starred at her mother in shock, “Does this mean you are going to help us?” She inquired in amazement.

Jasmine nodded, “I can’t allow my only daughter and future daughter-in-law to go up again this mad man alone, now can I?”

Trish and Beth flushed brightly, “Mother!?!” Beth exclaimed, “We aren’t engaged!” She said in a panicked state, glancing to Trish every now and then.

Jasmine smiled, “I know, but the two of you look so cute together that you can’t blame a mother for hoping.” She turned to Sam, “Speaking of which, what are your plans with my niece when all of this is over?”

Sam chocked on a mouthful of rice and reached for a glass of pop, washing it down quickly.

“Mother!!!” Beth shot across the table at the woman, “Well you stop it.”

Jasmine returned her daughter’s gaze, “I have a right to know, Star is my sister’s child and my god child after all.”

Sam swallowed hard, trying to cover her blush behind a napkin, “I…” She tried to find her words, but felt too flustered to speak and took a moment to compose herself, “I don’t know what will happen.” She admitted shyly, “I’m just hoping we can be friends for now.”

Jasmine nodded slowly, “That is good, she needs some friends. From what I hear she will be attending your school next year so I want the three of you to watch over her.”

“WHAT?!?” All three exclaimed at once.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 22

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Twenty-Two

Summer came quickly and Sam was feeling more anxious with every passing day. Jasmine said she would help them, but even with an adult at their side she feared the worst. Only a week after school let out Star arrived in town and Beth, along with her mother, went to help them move it. Beth spent many summer days with Star, making sure she was all right and making her feel at home, leaving Trish with the chore of keeping Sam’s mind off the girl. Trish kept at Sam’s side the every day of the summer, trying hard to keep the girl busy and her mind off the fact that Star had moved in just down the street. Sam struggled with the urge to just pass by the house, just a peek, anything to get a look at the girl, to know that she was alright, but everyone insisted that she stay far away, for the summer at the very least, and Sam agreed, but that did not mean she did not want to see the girl. The fact that Star was in town made her long to see the girl more and more with each passing day and it was making Sam very impassionate.

“Can’t I see her? Just once?” She pleaded with the girls as they watched movies in the sub-basement living room.

“No!” Trish replied firmly, crossing her arms to show that was the end of the subject.

“Just a small peek. I haven’t seen her in such a long time. I just want to hear her voice, something.”

Beth let out a sigh, they had been through this several times that summer already and she felt sorry for the girl, “You’ll be able to see her at school.” She reminded the girl, “You just have to wait another month. You have come this far, can’t you wait just a little longer?”

Sam let out a disgruntled sigh of defeat realizing she could not get the girl’s to budge on the situation and turned back to the movie.

Trish was like a hawk over Sam, never letting her eyes off the girl. She kept reminding Sam that they had to be careful and do as they planed or things could come out horribly, but all Sam could think about was finally being able to hold Star in her arms. She knew the girls were correct, but that did not stop her from longing to be with Star for real. She struggled with her urge to see the girl and prepared for the day that she would finally see Star in person. She was not even sure what she would say to the girl. It would not be a simple conversation that was for certain and as the August month crawled on passed she started to doubt their plans and worry that Star would reject her. She became so lost in her worries that before long Labour Day was upon them and that meant that she would finally get to see Star.

Sam lay in her bed the night before the first day of school thinking, her mind filled with memories of that day she spent with Star and worrying over the fact that the day of her friend’s death was coming closer by every minute, D-day was nearly upon her. She began to wonder where the word originated from and what it meant. “Do or Die Day” seemed the most appropriate to her and made her feel eve more miserable as she considered the fact that they could fail to save Star entirely, or even be killed themselves. She shook the thought from her mind as she tried to get some form of sleep that night.

Trish and her rode to school early in the morning, so they could find their homerooms and class schedules, while Beth promised to take Star to school on the first day, to help her get acquainted with the school and not be so alone. They entered the building and pushed through the crowds on their way to the gym, where the class listings would be posted. Trish bounced around happily with news that they were in the same homeroom together.

“This is great.” She squealed, “We can go to class together, with Beth!”

Sam smiled back at the girl, trying hard to share the girl’s enthusiasm however her eyes were too busy scanning the crowds for Beth and Star. She spotted Beth behind a couple of other girls, her dark appearance making her stand out in the crowd, and beside her she could see the top of black hair, “There they are.” She breathed, feeling her hands trembling as she tried to point the two girls out.

Trish spun around and smiled at the sight of her girlfriend, then the crowd parted and she got a good look at Star for the first time, “Awwww…” She cooed, “She’s so cute.” She exclaimed, “So much prettier then her photos.” She glanced up at Sam to see the girl was still starring at Star, a dreamy look in her eyes, and pulled on the sleeve of Sam’s shirt, “Alright lover girl, you’ve seen her now lets get out of here before she sees the way you are starring at her.” She commanded as she pulled the girl towards the rear exit of the gym.

“But… but…” Sam half protested, not letting her eyes off Star.

Trish pushed through the double doors and let them close behind them, and then turned to Sam, “You have to control yourself.” She reminded the girl, “You can’t just walk up to her and start talking with her. She doesn’t know who you are yet, remember?”

Sam let out a sigh and nodded in agreement, “I’m sorry. You must think I’m stupid for acting like this.”

Trish shook her head and smiled at her friend, “It is kind of cute. If this all works out we are going to have some stories to talk about when we are older, aren’t we?”

Sam gave half a smile, “That is for sure.” She agreed. Deciding to not confront Star just yet the two of them worked their way around the back of the school on their way to their homeroom. The bell suddenly rang announcing the start of the day and they rushed hastened their pace. The first day was never anything special. They visited their homeroom to get acquainted with their homeroom teacher, acquired their class schedules, which Sam and Trish noticed they had the same lunch hour as well as several of the same classes this year around, and be assigned lockers, and then go to their first days classes to get a list of materials they would need for the coming year. They arrived at homeroom to find Beth waiting in the room.

Trish rushed over to the girl, “Beth! I can’t believe we have homeroom together.” Squealed in delight.

Beth nodded and glanced around in embarrassment of her girlfriend’s display of enthusiasm, “It would appear so.” She said happily, “You want to share lockers?” She offered with a grin.

Trish frowned slightly and glanced at Sam who waved a hand to the girl, “Share lockers with your girlfriend.” She insisted, “I’ll be fine on my own.”

Trish gave Sam a quick hug, “You’re the best.” She exclaimed and kissed the girl on the cheek.

Sam flushed lightly, “It’s alright.” She looked at Beth, “I saw you with Star. How is she doing?”

Beth frowned slightly, “She is scared. The whole new school thing and all of that. I told her I would take care of things here quickly and meet her at her homeroom as soon as I can.”

Sam smiled, “Thanks for watching over her.”

Beth returned the smile, “I would have done it no matter what.” She state clearly, “I told you she is like my little sister. I just hope we can keep her safe.” She said with a frown.

Trish looked at the schedule the girl held in her hand, “Do you want me to pick up your material lists while you are with her?” She offered politely.

Beth gave the girl a surprised look, “Would you be willing to do that for me?” She inquired uneasily.

Trish took the girl’s schedule from her hand to look at it closer, comparing it to her own, “Sure, we have some of the same classes so hitting up a couple of other classes will be alright. I’ll tell the teachers you are helping a niner and they will understand.”

Beth hugged the girl, “You are a dear you know that?”

Trish returned the hug, “Anything for my love.” She broke free of the hug and signalled to Sam, “You coming with me?” She inquired curiously.

Sam shrugged, “Why not.” She glanced at Beth one last time as they were leaving the room, “Give Star a hug for me will you?”

Beth nodded, “Will do.”

“Later love.” Trish said with a wave and blew a kiss at the girl and the two of them went on their way. 

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 23

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Twenty-three

Over the next week Sam caught a glimpse of Star every now and then, keeping her distance for fear of what might happen if they came in contact with each other. Beth had the same lunch hour with them as well as Star so she spent her lunches apart from Trish and Sam for the time being. This saddened Trish slightly, but she spent much of the time with Sam, trying to keep the girl’s mind off the nightmare that was closing upon them. As the days passed all three girls became more and more uneasy and it showed. They began looking over their shoulders as they walked down the street, fearing that Star’s father could be watching them at any moment. Even though Trish and Sam knew that the man would not be after them they still could not help feeling a bit paranoid knowing a killer was stalking the streets. Then the week before Sam’s birthday she saw him.

“Trish…” She nudged her friend as Trish looked over a t-shirt at the front of one of the shops in the mall.

Trish glanced up at her friend and saw the frightened look in her eyes, “What is it?” She scanned around in search of what had caught her friend’s attention when she saw him. He was sitting in the food court, not far from where they stood, eating a burger as he read the newspaper, “Shit, is that him?” She inquired anxiously.

Sam nodded, her fist clenched into fists, “Let’s go.” She quickly turned away from the man and started out of the mall.

Trish raced after her friend, glancing over her shoulder a couple of times at the man, “Oh my god, I can’t believe he’s really here. I mean I knew this day would come, but I never thought we would run into him before the final day.”

Sam shakily tried to put the key in her bike lock and failed, “I can’t believe he had the guts to just sit there in the open like that.” She suddenly stood and looked around, “Did Beth say she was bring Star to the mall today?”

Trish shook her head, “They were going to the movies at West Mall.” She stated with certainty.

Sam continued to glance around her, “What about her mother? Star’s mother?”

Trish shrugged, “I don’t know. We have only been keeping an eye on Star. She could be anywhere.”

Sam felt panicked and started to head back to the mall, “We have to see if she is here.”

Trish grabbed the girl by the hand, “Then what?” She insisted, “He is not going to do anything for another couple of days so calm down. If you make a scene now he will know we’ve spotted him and all of our plans will be ruined.”

Sam punched at the door in frustration, “I can’t believe we have to just let him sit there like that. I feel so helpless.” She let out a tired sigh and sat down upon one of the railings that bordered the walkway to the entrance.

Trish set a hand upon her shoulder and squeezed it lightly, “We have no choice, but now we know for sure he is here. We are one step ahead of him so lets keep it that way.”

Sam took one final look at the mall and gave a nod of agreement, then snarled at the building, “I’ll make him regret ever coming after my Star.”


*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 24

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Twenty-four

The weekend of Sam’s birthday come around much quicker then any of the girls were prepared for. Unlike the past year which Sam’s birthday landed on a Saturday this year it fell on a Sunday, which worked out perfectly for their plans. They arranged to have a sleepover at Beth’s place Saturday night, much to Diana’s disappointment, so they could go over their plans with Jasmine one last time and head out first thing Sunday morning to stop the madness that was about to happen.

“Tomorrow is the day girls, you sure you are ready to go through with this?” Jasmine nervously.

The three girls nodded confidently. They spent much of the night talking over school and movies, while trying to not think about what it was they were planning to do first thing in the morning. Each of them harbouring fears of what might happen if they made one wrong calculation. They all knew the risks they were taking and were prepared as they would ever be to do what it took to save the lives of Star and her mother.

The night was the longest in their lives as they lay in sleeping bags on the living room floor. They set the alarms for the crack of dawn knowing that Star would be leaving extremely early in order to attempt a visit with Sam at the hospital. None of them got much sleep that night as they worried over the possibilities of the upcoming day. None more then Sam, who found herself unable to sleep and finally went to the balcony to get some air, shortly after she was accompanied by Jasmine, who offered the girl a cup of hot chocolate. The nights had gotten cool quickly and she accepted the drink gratefully.

“You going to be alright?” Jasmine inquired seriously as she gazed out over the cityscape.

Sam looked down at her mug and let out a long sigh, “I don’t know. I’m so worried about tomorrow and what will happen when Star seems me in person.” She said restlessly, “She never got to see what I look like so I’m afraid she will be disgusted with me and not want to even be my friend.”

Jasmine turned and lightly placed a hand under the girl’s chin, studying the girl’s features, “You’re right, you are a little demon aren’t you?” She kidded with the child only to have Sam pull back irately and stare out at the stars, brooding. Jasmine stepped up behind the girl and hugged her in a way that only a mother could, “You are beautiful.” She insisted softly, “If I had a second daughter I would like her to be like you.”

Sam lowered her head in shame, “I’m not beautiful.” She stated miserably, “I’m so plain I can’t stand it. Not even my own mother wanted me.” Tears began to roll down her soft cheeks, “She gave up any chance of seeing me, she didn’t even fight with the courts about it, she just let me go without even looking back.” She shook with a sob.

Jasmine tightened her hug, “She doesn’t realize how lucky she was to have a child like you. I think you are the best thing that ever happened to this family.” She glanced over her shoulder at her daughter as she curled up with Trisha, softly sleeping, “You have no idea how much happiness you bring to people.”

Sam followed the woman’s gaze and smiled at her friends, “I had nothing to do with them. They found each other.” She said sheepishly.

Jasmine shook her head as she turned to look upon the girl again, “You don’t give yourself much credit. If you were not around then neither of them would have confronted their issues and come to be together.” She let go of the girl and sat upon a plastic garden chair, “You see Bethany is a rather troubled child. She doesn’t tell me everything, but I know she has gone through a lot, not as a psychic, but as a mother. I could see the wounded look in her eyes over the summer before she met you and wished that there was some way to mend her broken heart.

“One day she came home all excited. She told me that she met a couple of wonderful girls at school and that one of them did not treat her like an outcast like so many others did. You see she spent most of her elementary and junior high school days alone and I think she started to dress that way to conceal the loneliness she was feeling. All she could talk about for weeks on end was this girl who talked to her like she was one of her gang, like a real friend.” She looked up at the girl with a smile upon her face, “That girl is you Samantha. You are the one who made her feel welcome and not alone in this world and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

A bright blush crossed Sam’s face and she gazed down at her hot chocolate, as she nervously stirred, “I didn’t do anything special.” She stated shyly, “I was just happy that someone wanted to be part of my little group of friends. I should be the one thanking her for being there when I needed her. If it wasn’t for her, and Trish, I don’t think I would have made it through the year.”

Jasmine stood and smiled down at the girl, “That is what true friends are for.” She stated firmly, “They stick together and help each other through everything.”

Sam returned the smile and frowned, “I hope Star will join our group, I have this nagging feeling that I’m going to scare her off and she’ll never want to talk to me again.”

The woman’s smile only broadened, “I think you will be surprised to find Star will be more then happy to be friends with a girl like you.” She gestured to the balcony door; “It is getting cool out here so why don’t we go inside and you try to get some sleep.”

Sam sipped at her drink a little more, “I don’t think I can sleep.” She stated miserably, “I think I want to stay out here a little longer if that is alright.”

Jasmine nodded, “Don’t stay out too long, you are going to need your rest for tomorrow.”

Sam returned the nod, “I’ll come in in a bit.” She agreed.

Jasmine yawned, “Well, I’m off to bed myself. You have a good night dear.”

“Night.” Sam said and then turned to look over the city again. Somewhere out there Star was sleeping, she glanced down at the watch upon her wrist to see it was two in the morning and recalled that was the time in which she awoke from her coma, so that meant that Star was sitting up in her room talking to her right now. Her eyes scanned the many lights below, hoping to find Star’s window amongst them. Her mind played over that night’s conversation clearer then ever before and she smiled at the thought of the girl. Star was really excited to be able to meet Sam in the morning so maybe, just maybe, Star will be happy to see her in the morning after all. Finishing off her drink she moved back into the apartment, closing the balcony door behind her, and crawled into awaiting sleeping bed, drifting into a fit filled sleep.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 25

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter twenty-five

The alarm went off bright and early and the girls sprung to life in an instance, eating breakfast as quickly as they dared and getting dressed as they double-checked watches to make sure they were all set to the same time, all keeping silent as they kept to their own thoughts on that dreadful morning. Jasmine was the first to leave, she planned to somehow get Mary-ann out of the house before Star’s father arrived, but after Star left for the hospital, while the other girls went to the hospital to find Star herself. They wished each other good luck as they exited the elevator and Jasmine gave each girl a hug as well as a bracelet for protection. Not really wanting to leave the girls on their own she hesitated on each hug as long as she could before needing to go down another floor to the car lot. She offered to drive the kids to the hospital, but they refused, claiming they would get to their destination on their own and they would meet up with her there.

They all agreed that the hospital would be the safest place to confront Star, but someone needed to get Mary-ann out of harms way so they needed to split up no matter what. The girls watched the elevator doors close and headed out to where they had locked up their bikes. Over the summer Beth had acquired her own bicycle as so she could keep up with the girls and not have to depend on Trish all the time. The three of them raced through the city, praying that they would reach the hospital before Star left. They knew that visiting hours did not start until ten a.m. so that gave them several hours to find the girl and stop her from returning home. They just hoped that the girl would believe them and come along peacefully. It took an hour to arrive at the hospital and they quickly locked up their bikes before entering the lobby, each glancing around in search of the girl.

“Where could she be?” Trish inquired worriedly as she scanned the number of people in the lobby. There were a lot more people then expected and they did not take into account that it would be a busy night for the hospital that weekend. They planned ahead at the very least and each girl knew their destination and headed out in search of the girl. Beth checked around the main lobby while Trish took the cafeteria and Sam the gift shop.

It did not take long for Sam to spot Star through the glass walls of the Gift shop. She was watching as a kind looking sales woman wrapped a package for her and Sam wondered if it was a gift for her. She took a deep breath and prepared to enter the gift shop when she suddenly felt dizzy and staggered to the wall behind her. Her head hurt as a massive headache began to well up inside of her skull. She reached up to touch her forehead and was surprised to discover the bullet scar above her eye had vanished. Quickly she spun around to look at her reflection in a mirrored pillar and was shocked to find the scar had completely faded. She lifted her shirt to find the other scar also vanished. Happily she turned in search of Star when something hit her hard in the shoulder and she stumbled to the ground, abruptly another object slammed into her back and she felt her heart skip a beat.

“Are you alright miss?” A young nurse inquired as she rushed to Sam’s side. Sam was surprised when she looked up to see her old nurse from a year ago, “Samantha?” She inquired curiously, “Is that you?”

“Janis???” Sam glanced around in confusion, clenching her shoulder in pain. Behind the woman she saw Star leave the gift shop and tried to get to her feet only to find herself too weak to stand.

“Are you alright?” The nurse asked worriedly, “What are you doing here?”

“I… I’m looking for someone.” She said, swallowing back the pain, “I… I need to go…” She pushed passed the nurse, “I’m sorry.” She placed her hands together in a sign of a pray for the woman’s forgiveness and spun around to find herself face to face with Trish, nearly colliding with the girl.

“Sam?” Trish grabbed onto the girl as she nearly fell to the ground again, “What happened to you?” Her eyes noticed the disappearance of the scar and she smiled, “Did you find Star? Did you stop her?”

Sam shook her head, “I found Star and the moment I was about to call out to her something happened.” She pulled the neck of her collar over to expose her shoulder and the new wound that appeared there.

“Shit…” Trish muttered, lightly touching the wound, “What the hell does this mean?”

Sam glanced around the lobby as she replaced her shirt, “We have to find Beth. I don’t think we can approach Star just yet. I think we are just changing the future and not stopping her from being killed.” She spotted Beth as the girl was about to approach Star and waved frantically at the girl, “Trish!” She turned to her friend with desperation in her eyes, “You have to stop Beth, and don’t let Star see you.”

Trish nodded worriedly and without question she ran around a group of people, approaching her girlfriend from behind and pulling her behind a pillar, just as Star turned around to see who was following her.

“Trish!?!?” Beth exclaimed frantically, “What the he-?” Trish cut off the girl’s words by placing a hand over her mouth.

“We can’t go near her yet.” Trish insisted, putting a finger to her lips, “Something happened to Sam and you have to see this to believe it.”

The two girls skirted around the rows of seats, keeping low as so Star did not notice them, spotting Sam at the door to the women’s washroom, signalling for them to hurry. Quickly they ducked into the washroom and Beth glanced between the two girls in frustrated confusion.

“What the hell is going on here?” She insisted angrily, “I nearly had her.”

Sam pulled the collar of her shirt down, “There is another one on my back, I can feel ig. Something is wrong. If we approach her now we don’t change anything.”

Beth breathed as she stared at the new wound, “How can this be?”

Sam shook her head as she again replaced her shirt, “But I think my body is still linked with Star and all we are doing is changing the way she is killed.”

Beth thought this over and then snapped her fingers, “She hasn’t discovered that Sam is in the future yet. We have to wait for her to discover it on her own before we can confront her.”

Sam nodded, “That makes sense.” She thought over that day’s conversation and frowned, “Wait, we may have to wait longer.”

“Why is that?” Trish inquired impatiently, wanting to get this game over with.

“She gave up on me after discovering that I was in the future.” Sam said sadly, “I took some meds and could not hear her thoughts clearly, but when they faded something changed her mind about things and she was suddenly determined to find me again. We may have to wait until then to make sure she does not reject me.”

Beth let out a deep sigh and glanced down at her watch, “Visiting hours is not for another two hours. What the hell are we supposed to do until then?”

“Isn’t your mother coming after she rescues Star’s mother?” Trish inquired worriedly.

Beth stared at her girlfriend in shock, “We have to stop her before she enters the lobby. We can’t let Star spot her or it will change things more.”

Quickly the three girls moved out of the washroom to find Star nowhere in sight. Cautiously they moved outside of the hospital and each took up a different area of the parking lot, on lookout for Jasmine. Trish was the first to spot the woman as she pulled into the parking lot and signalled for the others to quickly follow. Jasmine was surprised to find the three girls awaiting her so eagerly.

“What are you girls doing out here?” She inquired worriedly, “Aren’t you supposed to be searching for Star?”

Beth glanced to Sam and back to her mother, “There has been a bit of a change of plans.”

Sam showed the woman her newly acquired scar, “We can’t go near her.” She explained sadly.

Jasmine leaned against the car and crossed her arms as she looked over the hospital, “So what do we do then?” She inquired of the girls.

The three of them glanced at each other, and then back up at Jasmine, “We have to go to Star’s place.” Sam insisted bluntly.

Jasmine waved her hands in protest, “There is no way we are going there. Her father could already, waiting for her to return and he might kill us if he spots us. He knows me and Bethany, there is no way we can be sure that he doesn’t spot us.”

“But he doesn’t know me or Trish.” Sam stated boldly.

Trish stared at her friend in shock, “You want us to go there alone? Are you crazy?”

Sam shrugged, “What other choice do we have?”

“We could confront her on the way back to her home.” Trish offered, and then saw the disappointed look upon her friend’s faces, “What is wrong with that idea?”

“I think we have to wait until she reaches her home.” Beth stated miserably.

Sam nodded in agreement, “It is the only way to be sure of where her heart and mind are before she is shot.”

Trish let out a sigh of defeat and glanced up at Jasmine, “Will you talk some sense into these two?” She pleaded.

Jasmine frowned, “I think they are correct.”

Trish dropped her hands to her side and shook her head in disbelief, “You are all crazy you know that?”

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 26

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter Twenty-six

“Have I told you this is crazy?” Trish whispered from their spot behind a tree near Sam’s old home.

“Several times.” Sam stated with a sigh. Jasmine dropped them off soon after they made up their minds and drove down the street to a local convenience store, where she waited by a pay phone. They knew that Star was shot at around one o’clock because that was when Sam’s records state that her wounds appeared. The plan was that Trish and Sam were to stop Star before she entered the house and Jasmine would call the police at precisely one, telling them there has been a strange man seen sneaking around.

As the two girls waited at their hiding place Sam spotted someone coming their way. At first she thought it was just one of the neighbours when she noticed the way the man kept glancing over his shoulder, then she got a clear view of his face and pulled Trish behind the tree, keeping low.

“What is it?” Trish curiously asked, laying on the ground next to her friend as she tried to squint through the branches of the large pine tree they decided to hide underneath, but could not see through the dense branches.

“Star’s father.” Sam breathed, trying to keep her heart from racing too fast.

“He’s here?!?” Trish squirmed over Sam to get a better hiding place, “What are we going to do?” She frightened asked.

“We wait.” Sam stated, trying to keep calm and glanced down at her watch to see it was quarter past noon, “She should be here soon enough.”

******

Star skipped down the road as she talked to Sam in her mind, the two conversing about how they would finally get to meet in person. Her heart prepared to take as long as it took to meet face to face, and prepared to confront whatever met them head on. She smiled at the sound of Sam’s voice and was suddenly startled to find the voice was not coming from inside her mind this time, but to her right.

“Star!!” A strange girl called out as she raced across the street, a girl with Sam’s voice. She had seen the girl several times in school and the way she looked at Star made her feel uneasy and she stepped away from the girl, and then she noticed another girl running along behind her, a girl she recognized at Sam’s friend Trisha. The first girl called out again and Star was almost certain she was hearing Sam’s voice.

((Sam?)) She inquired internally, taking another cautious step away from the two girls, ((Sam, there are two strange girls here.)) She said worriedly.

((Girls?)) Sam asked curiously, ((Who? Classmates maybe?))

Star shook her head, ((I think it is you…)) She stated, staring in disbelief at the girl before her as she slowed to a stop only a metre away, panting slightly.

“Star…” The girl in front of her panted, “You have to come with us.” She stated urgently.

Star glazed at the girl curiously, “Who are you?” She asked nervously, her eyes darting to Trish every now and then. The girl was very pretty in spite of her baggy shirt, torn jeans and the scar upon her forehead. Her eyes stopped on that scar and grew wide, ((Sam? Which side did you say your scar was on?))

((Over my right eye, near the hairline mostly.)) Sam replied, ((What is going on?))

“Star it is me, Sam.” The girl said as she reached out a hand towards the girl, “I’ve come to get you.”

Star glanced between the two girls uneasily, “How can this be? How did you find me?” She inquired frightfully.

Sam held out her hand to the girl, “It’s me. You have to trust me.” She glanced over her shoulder at Star’s home and abruptly leapt at the girl, “Get down!!!” She cried out and suddenly the air shattered with the sound of a small explosion. The moment Sam’s hands touched Beth her mind filled with a years worth of memories through Sam’s eyes, from the day of her own demise to this very moment, it all flashed by in an instant, but as they landed upon the lawn she knew that her mind was just getting in sink with the future Sam and she felt their minds pass through each other for a moment as they rolled across the lawn. The two came to a stop on the grass, Star atop of Sam, and they smiled at each other.

“Sam???” Star reached out to touch the girl’s face, “It is really you.” She said with a giddy giggle, “You really came looking for me.”

Sam hugged the girl, “Of course I would, nothing would stop me from finding you.”

“Leave that for later girls!!!” Trish screamed as she pointed to the house and the front door as it opened and Star’s father stepped out onto the lawn, a maddening look upon his face.

“I’ll kill all of you.” He insisted, aiming the gun at the girls, “I don’t care how many of you I have to go through, so just give me my daughter and I’ll let you go.”

Trish quickly backed up while Sam rolled over into a crouched position, with Star behind her, her arms out spread to protect the girl, “You can’t have her.” Sam snarled, “She is mine and I’ll never let you take her from me again.”

Several people came out of their houses to see what the commotion was about and stared in shock at the scene before them. The appearance of witness’s made Star’s father stagger backwards, turning the gun away from the girls to one of the neighbours at they approached.

“Don’t come near me!!” He shouted wildly, “You have no idea what kind of monster she is.” He stated, tears streaming down his face, “She… she has to die. We are not safe with her alive.”

Sam suddenly lunged at the man, knocking his gun arm to the side and shoving him with all the force she could muster. A blast of air rushed around the girl, causing grass and leaves to pick up like a small cyclone and propelled the man backwards, forcing him into the brick wall of the house and knocking the gun from his hand. Not taking any chances she rushed towards the gun and dove at it. Again the winds around her picked up and the gun jumped into her fingers and she turned to point the gun at the man, who was bleeding from a cut upon his head.

“You - will - never - hurt - her - again.” Sam breathed, stepping closer to the man, shakily pointing the gun at him, “I’ll never let you hurt her again.” She seethed.

Trish ran to Sam’s side and wrapped her arms around the girl’s waist, “Don’t do it.” She pleaded, “You’ll only be sent to jail and never be able to see Star again.” She said, sobbing into the girl’s back, “Think of Star, think of me… I need you. Who am I going to talk to when Beth and I get into fights or if we want to get married? You can’t do this. You can’t!!!”

((Samantha…)) Star’s voice echoed through Sam’s mind and she quickly turned to see the girl standing where she left her, shaking her head, ((Don’t, you don’t need to do this. We are together again.)) A smile spread across her face.

Sam glanced back at the man, who now cowards before the girl’s fury. Finally she lowered the gun and a police officer, that she was not aware had arrived, quickly retrieved the gun while two others cuffed Star’s father. Slowly Sam staggered over to Star and suddenly collapsed at the girl’s feet.

((Sam!?!)) Star called out in her mind as the girl dropped to her side and rolled the girl over, “Are you alright?”

Sam smiled up at the girl, “Are you hurt?” She inquired.

Star shook her head, “No, I’m fine.”

Sam’s smile broadened, “Good…”

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 27

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006
 
Chapter twenty-seven

The group of girls were taken to the police station where they where asked a number of questions. Trish and Sam already worked out their response, telling the police that they went to see Star for her birthday when Star’s father started shooting at them. After a short while their mothers arrived at the station with Beth. Diana rushed to Sam and Trish and hugged them tightly, while Mary-ann quickly moved to Star and checked the girl for wounds.

“Good god girls, you had me so worried.” Diana said as she held the girls, “What happened?” She glanced around as an officer approached them.

The officer tipped his hat at the women, “I’m guessing that you are the parents.” He inquired glancing the three women.

They all nodded and held their daughters to their sides.

The officer smiled, “You have some very brave girls.” He said to Diana, “They are heroes really, well heroines.” He said as he corrected himself.

“What happened?” Diana demanded.

The officer looked over his notes, “I’m not really sure entirely, but we got a call of mysterious man in the area which was quickly followed by calls of gun fire. Star’s father was convinced that his daughter was a demon, keeps rambling on about Samantha here as well, and tried to kill the girl. Nearly did if it wasn’t for Samantha’s quick actions, she pulled the girl out of the line of fire and wrestled the gun from the man. I don’t know how she did it, but it was something else that was for sure.”

Sam blushed as the man looked down at the girl proudly, “I just didn’t want him to hurt Star.” She stated, hugging the girl in her arms.

“Well you don’t have to worry about him anymore.” The officer insisted, “We have thirty or so witnesses who saw him shooting at two young girls. He is going away for a long time that is for certain.” He assured the girls and Mary-ann sobbed into her sister’s arms.

Jasmine patted her sister’s back and looked over at the officer, “Can we go home now?” she inquired curiously.

He nodded and held out a card to the women, “Sure thing, I think we got all we need from the girls, but if you wish to call me with any questions then feel free.” He gave each one a card and tipped his cap one more time before turning to leave, “I have to get to work now. You girls have a good day, and happy birthday to you two, Star and Samantha.” He said with a smile, and then passed through a door at the back of the room.

Jasmine glanced between the girls and smiled, “Well should we be on our way?” She inquired.

The girls all nodded, wanting nothing more then to have then entire event behind them.

******

The group of them returned to Trish’s place, all of them, not one sure what to say to the other. As Diana opened the door she and Jasmine suddenly stooped to pick up an armload of balloons each and tossed them at the girls.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!” They both cheered. The house had been covered in colourful streamers and a large banner covered the far wall, above the picture window with the words, “Happy birthday Sam and Star.” Written across it in a hasty scrawl that showed their mothers rushed things a little. Sam and Star both stood in the doorway in shock; neither of them prepared for the surprised that was planned for them.

Trish and Beth moved around the girls, a broad grin upon both of their faces, “Did we surprise you?” They inquired already knowing the answer from the looks upon the two girl’s faces.

“When did you have time to set this up?” Sam inquired in awe of all the colours.

Jasmine smiled, “I had to come up with a way to get Mary-ann out of the house and all I could think of was telling asking her to help set up a surprise birthday party for the both of you.”

Mary-ann stared at her sister in shock, “Get me out of the house? What are you talking about?”

Jasmine looked at the two mother’s guilty and then down at the group of girls, “Should we tell them?”

Trish nervously shifted her weight from foot to foot as she looked up at her mother, “Mom, don’t be angry with us… we had to save Star and her mother.”

Diana looked down at the girl with a puzzled look upon her face, “What are you going on about?” She glanced from one girl to another, stopping on Star’s face.

Star shook her head, “I’m as lost as the rest of you.” She insisted, “I don’t know what is going on either.” She lied, her link with Sam filled her in on a years worth of details, but she was no ready to tell a stranger.

Sam let out a sigh and stepped forward to stand in front of Diana, “You remember those strange marks I got in the hospital?” She inquired curiously.

Diana nodded, “Sure, the bullet woun-“ She brushed the girl’s bangs back to find the scar had vanished and quickly checked the rest of the girl’s body to find no other bullet scars, “What happened to it?” She glanced around at the group that stood around her, feeling like she was the only one left out of some strange joke.

Jasmine lead the woman to the couch and lowered her into a seated position, “It is a long and confusing story.” She said with a nervous smile and glanced up at her sister, “Sis, you might want to sit down for this too.”

“I’ll stand.” Mary-ann insisted, holding onto her daughter’s shoulders for comfort.

Jasmine took a deep breath and explained everything as best she could. When she got to the part about Mary-ann and Star’s murders Diana brought her hands to her mouth as the pieces fell into place and she gazed over at Sam, reaching out for the girl to come to her.

Reluctantly Sam approached the woman and was instantly pulled into the woman’s arms, forced to sit on her lap as she was embraced in a warm hug, “I’m sorry…” Diana mumbled, “I knew you were going through a lot of pain, I just didn’t know how to help you.” She said miserably, “I’m a horrible mother.”

Sam shook her head, “You’re the best mother I’ve ever met.” She glanced around the room at the other two women and smiled, “All of you are.”

Jasmine set a hand upon the woman’s shoulder, “You did the best you could and that is all that counts.”

Mary-ann hugged Star, “I’m just glad you are all alright.”

Diana nodded in agreement, then gave the girl’s a stern look, “Now I don’t want to hear about you three chasing after mad murders again is that clear?”

The girls all nodded.

Diana set her eyes upon Star, “That goes for you too.” She demanded.

Star shrank into her mother’s side and nodded.

Diana patted Sam on the butt to her causing her to jump off her lap, “Now who is for cake?” She inquired with a smile.

*****

To be Continued . . .

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

Chapter 28

Title: Epilogue

In My Heart and In My Mind
By Kathryn K. Williams 2006

Epilogue

The group of four girls sat upon the couch in the basement, happily eating pizza. Star and Am’s presents lined up on the table, a crystal frog from Star to Sam and a stuffed bear from Sam to Star. They both hugged each other and loved their presents dearly, surprised that each knew what the other would want. Now they were relaxing with a movie lightly playing on the TV.

“I can’t believe we made it through that alive.” Trish breathed, shuttering at the thought of Star’s father with the gun in his hand, “I thought we were dead for sure.”

Beth pulled Trish into arms, “I’m glad you didn’t die, I don’t know what I’d do without you.” She said and lightly kissed the girl.

Star stared at her cousin in shock, “Since when have you liked girls?” She inquired curiously.

Beth turned and smiled at her cousin, “A lot longer then you I suspect, I just didn’t tell you because unlike you I keep my private life private.”

Star looked at the two girls suspiciously, “Have you two had sex yet?”

Trish chocked on her pizza that she just pit into and Beth handed her a can of pop, who took it gratefully and drained it, “STAR!?! You are as bad as mom.” Beth shouted at the girl.

Star shrugged, “I was just curious, I wanted to know what it felt like.”

Beth glanced over at Sam, “Well now is your chance to find out.” She said with a sly grin.

Star flushed brightly and Sam mimicked the blush, “Bethany!!!” Star shoved her cousin playfully.

Beth put up her hands in defence, “Well are you two going to start dating at the very least?”

Star stopped hitting Beth and turned to face Sam, who was still blushing, “I… I never really thought about that.”

Sam scratched the back of her head, “I was too busy worrying that you would reject me to think about anything else.”

Star turned on the couch to face the girl, “Now why would I reject you? I told you we were friends didn’t I?” She stated confidently.

Sam continued to blush and could not return the girl’s gaze as she fiddled with the hem of her shirt, “Yeah, but that was before you saw me in person. You could have chanced your mind.” She admitted miserably.

Star leaned forward and turned her head so she could look up at the girl’s face, “You are right, you are not very pretty when you frown like that.” She smiled up at the girl, causing Sam to smile slightly. Star’s grin broadened at the sight of Sam’s smile, “That is better. Your smile is very cute.”

Sam shook her head at the girl, “You are silly, you know that.”

Star lowered her eyes, “Silly… is that a good thing.”

Sam nodded, “I like insanity, it is better then normality that is for sure.” Sam’s face brightened and she called out to the girl in her mind, ((And who would give up a connection like this.))

Star looked into Sam’s eyes, ((You really don’t mind our minds linked like this?)) She inquired nervously.

Sam nodded, ((It means we’ll never be apart, no matter what happens.))

Star’s eyes darted about then back up at Sam, ((Do you really want to be with me? I mean don’t you find any of this kind of strange.))

Sam laughed, ((I’m used to strange.)) She remarked.

“Alright you two.” Beth said staring at the girls, “Could you let us in on your little conversation?”

Trish glanced between the two in disbelief, “Does that mean your minds are linked again.”

Star curled up in Sam’s arms and grins at the girls, “Yep!” She said gleefully, “And nothing will ever pull us apart.” She glanced up at Sam, “Right?”

Sam nodded, “Right.” She lowered her head to lightly kiss the girl upon the lips. Star pulled back for a moment and then smiled and returned the kiss, pulling herself up onto Sam as she deepened the kiss.

Beth batted her cousin on the back of the head, “Enough of that. Get a room.” She said playfully.

Star parted from the kiss and shivered, a mischievous look in her eyes, “Do you want to go to your room?”

“WHAT?!?” Trish and Beth both exclaimed in shock.

Star gave the girls a wide grin, “Gotya!!” She cried out happily, clapping her hands together.

Sam let out a deep breath, “You had me going there too.” Sam said, trying to slow her heart down.

Star smiled at the girl, ((Who knows what the future will bring.)) She said with a wink. Abruptly the sound of muffled chimes and beeps drifted through the air and the girls looking around in search of the sound.

“Oh!” Star picked up her handbag off the coffee table and pulled out the toad Meephit from inside, “I forgot all about this thing.” She said with a smile.

The girls all leaned in close to look at the toy, “It really does look like the one I got Sam last year doesn’t it?” Trish inquired curiously.

Sam nodded, “I can’t believe all of this is because of that silly toy.” She remarked uneasily.

“I’m glad it did.” Star stated happily and preceded to retrieve the device from its stomach, “I wonder what it is trying to tell us?” She stared at the screen and blinked, “Hey Sam… look at this…”

She leaned closer to the girl so she could get a better look. Blinking across the screen was a series of word, “Congratulations Samantha and Star. Your Meephit has evolved to the next level, thanks for playing. I hope you enjoy our next game.”

“NEXT GAME!?!?”

***** 

The End

*****

Note: Characters and ideas in this story are a copyright of Kathryn K Williams.

If you wish to view art from this series please visit my deviant arts site at: http://shinigami-shimai.deviantart.com/

For more of my stories visit my deviant hearts site at: http://www.devianthearts.com/viewuser.php?uid=159

Also if you spot any typos or other errors please contact me at katwilliams @ rogers.com

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