Chapter 1: Death by day 

(Arabelle)

Beams of lustrous city lights pour in through the window of my limousine as I gaze at the pale moon dancing on the gentle waves of the Tiber river. I muse in worried excitement about the dance, coming to my senses just long enough to take a picture. A wavering smile crosses my face when my dance partner texts me, “I’ll be waiting for you at the entrance of the ballroom. I can’t wait to see you blossom tonight.”

The dance competition was finally here. The top ten couples selected would be scouted by Arden Miller, the leading director of cinema for the last ten years in a row. My small community college, along with nine other more prestigious universities across the country, were chosen. 

My hands shook with anticipation. All eyes would be watching, waiting for the outcome and it thrilled me to the core. I finally had the chance to fulfill one of my dreams. 

 I didn’t care if I made it into the top ten, though my dance instructor was fairly certain I would. I just wanted to feel the wind in my hair (curly as it was) and the heat from the stage lights on my skin as I danced. I blush when I realize one of my daydreams yet again started with Adriel’s sun kissed arms embracing me. His face shining with adoration as he looks down on me. 

I tried not to think about him. It was abrupt how quickly our ‘relationship’ ended and part of me hoped that maybe if tonight goes well that he’ll notice me again… I shake my head in disbelief at myself, if God wanted to give me someone, great, but I shouldn’t put my heart out there. 

When the limo arrives at the Movella Dana Palace I forget all train of thought. 

The beige marble columned building was bigger than all the other dance halls I’ve seen, but then again this was Italy. The overhanging ivory balcony had a black awning that illuminated from the moonlight. The lamp posts lining the walkway must have been motion sensored the way they lit up, revealing the bronze, tinted glass revolving door.

The silver-haired bellman standing at the entrance beckons the limo driver to pull closer, and he steps in a perfect stride to open my door. The bellman clears his throat then extends his arm promptly. My lips purse awkwardly when I collect myself, and I take his hand. “Welcome to Italy, signorina,” he greets. His voice thick in accent, and the Versace Eros cologne that wafted off him followed behind, fitting his caramel brown eyes that crinkle when he flashes a warm smile. 

I duck to avoid hitting the cant rail as I step out onto the damp pavement, “Thank you,” I manage, my voice raspy, skin prickling at the humidity. I exhale heavily, reach down in habit to manage my dress while readjusting my bun. I find a stray curl and frown, noticing it's already frizzing out. “Don't worry, miss. You look beautiful." He compliments, a twinkle lighting his eyes as he inclines his head respectfully then walks away. 

I take a deep breath in to stop the jitters threatening to overwhelm me and close my eyes.

The bustling noise of the city faded until all I could hear were the fountains trickling nearby and a faint symphony from the upstairs balcony. A warm breeze whisks by, moisture from the air lingering on my shoulders. As I’m walking towards the door, a voice hisses from behind me, “Don’t go.” 

Chills snake down my spine and I turn. With no one there and the wind gone, all that remained was dread as I must have imagined it. “Okay?” I mumble stupefied, my eyebrows knitting when I spot a single red rose lying where the limo dropped me off. 

I clutch the sides of my royal blue gown, lifting it from the danger of my next step and it shimmers, grazing over the threshold. I step into the room feeling someone’s eyes on me. A gentle waft of cedar and pine welcomes me and I smile. The blonde gentleman leaning against the wall across the room lifts his head, wavy hair falling into his view of me. “Finally…” Logan rumbles, "Let's get to work.” 

His light gray eyes glinted as he pushed his hair aside and glanced over my apparel, thin pink lips pulling into a deep smile when he noticed my dress. He folds the cuffs of his black dress shirt, the silver in his mask gleaming when he approaches. I gather my courage, the click of my heels sounding confident as I close the space between us, and his hand follows behind me, “Hey.”

I ignore the voices telling me to make a run for it, and smile. Okay, Arabelle. We got this. I remind myself as we approach the tall engraved wooden doors to the ballroom. The warning from earlier echoing in my mind as we make our entrance. 

 Katalina gasps, then squeals excitedly as we step through the doors. Her olive, freshly manicured hands reach to cup her heart-shaped face. “Aww… Ara, you look amazing!” She compliments, bright emerald green eyes sparking with glee as I wince at the high pitch in her voice, and when all eyes fall on me I release an awkward laugh.

 Her glittery black princess gown was tinted with a dark shade of green that rippled flawlessly as she made her way towards me. Her excitement is so contagious that when she reaches me a cheeky smile breaks through my anxieties and forms on my face. Until Eric’s booming voice rings beside me. “Yeah, Ara. I almost couldn't recognize you… you look stunning.” He jeers tauntingly and I sneer at him. His curly black hair is a dead giveaway to the mischievous green eyes that dance behind his gold mask. 

“Hey, Ara!” Adriel’s cheery voice greets from across the room and a sudden panic rises. I shut my eyes and exhale deeply. It’s okay. I'm not dancing with him anyway. I open my eyes to his furrowing as he looks down worriedly at me. He lowers his voice, "Hey you okay?" He asks and I choke on a scoff, forcing a smile, "Yeah, I-. Just competition jitters I guess."

Adriel’s lips quirk into a heart wrenching smile and I blink emphatically trying not to ogle him. The way his navy suit fit him perfectly. Or that his wavy brown hair swooped over his hazel brown eyes and his dimples...

I realized too late that I was staring when I heard Katalina laugh, “Earth to Arabelle! The rest of the world is waiting,” she teases and I look away quickly, scolding myself. She hovers languidly over Adriel who cups her waist adoringly. 

I gave an awkward laugh and chastised myself for looking slowly realizing that people were shifting into their starting positions. I search frantically for my dance partner, caught off guard by Eric’s white and gold suit almost glowing as he bows to me. He throws a questioning glance my way and when I smile convincingly he nods.

 He motions for Katalina to join him and she saunters away, waving goodbye to Adriel. I finally spot Logan but see he’s decided to ditch me for another girl-lead. 

“So, should we dance?” Adriel asks over the random rush of my thoughts. He stands almost awkwardly fidgeting with his cufflinks and an impish smile playing on his lips. I freeze. I desperately wanted to say no, but I was already out of time. I needed practice before the judges got here in less than an hour. "Yes, of course," I mumble sarcastically under my breath and sigh, thumbing my promise ring. 

See Adriel and I clicked almost instantly. We'd call each other for life updates and Bible studies, until he met Katalina. We stopped hanging out much after that. I didn’t mention it, of course. If my friend so much as imagined me liking the same guy, her world would burn to ash. 

I lifted my chin high forcing a confident smile while I gripped my dress. I lowered into a curtsy and my eyes met his, “That dress really brings out the red in your bangs.” Adriel compliments, a hint of awe in his hushed voice when the music starts. I push my emotions aside, mouthing a thank you when I rise.

His half-step mirrors my own and our arms briefly touch. I guide his hand to my waist before cupping the shoulder pad of his suit and close my eyes. With the thud of my heart, our palms meet; I’m almost glad at the light's random flicker. It was enough to distract me from the conflicting emotions boiling inside. 

But something was off. The air felt magnetized and then the music quieted, we heard it. 

Adriel and I exchange a worried look.

The chandeliers sway above us, some clinking together. It fills the room, the beautiful noise ominous as everyone grabs their partner, each of us falling back. I couldn’t help but watch with wide eyes as the events unfolded in seemingly slow motion. My eyelids barely having the time to close when the marble floor rumbles underneath me. I just stood there, numb and disconnected from my body as everyone else panicked.

 I remember thinking that the shaking was going to stop, but when a second tremor hits, the floor began to crack open. My lungs burned when I inhaled the clouds of dust that streamed from the ceiling; chaos ensued all around me. 

My mind finally allowed me to react and I snapped back to feeling as people veered for the exits, crushed by pieces of the chunks of ceiling that fell and piled their lifeless bodies underneath, blocking the wide doors. The rest shout in fright. I looked for another way out, only to lose my footing and my voice when another tremor rocks through the building. I reach for the nearest person, and shield my face from the light bulbs that pop above me, sending sparks cascading through the air.

Terror grips my body when the darkness falls, screams echoing from everywhere. I manage to place shaky hands onto the cold floor in front of me in an attempt to stand and spot Adriel as he gets to his feet. Before I could get a good grip on his hand, darkness filled the corners of my vision. 

Panicked voices blur into a high-pitched ringing that fills my mind as I try to sit up. A migraine threatening to split my skull as shadows shift around me. I place my hands onto the concrete before me, grunting at the ache in my ribs that was a likely indication they were broken.

 I managed to stand hissing through gritted teeth, but my cries were muffled by a hand clasping over my mouth. “Don’t.” I blink against the dark trying to confirm the image of the person holding me hostage, but all I make out from the dim light that swayed above me was a glint of metal. The light encompassing us casts a shadow onto a dismembered limb below, “What happened?” My voice quavers in a whisper, warbled with fear. Just then a strong gust of wind sweeps through the small walkway, filling my nostrils with the stench of blood and my stomach churns, souring as I gag.

I’d heard rumors of people bombing public areas in protests, but I’d never imagined being in the middle of one. I clasp a trembling hand onto the person beside me, a single tear falling down my cheek as the gravity of the situation begins to sink in. I didn’t know if my friends were still alive or if the bomber was still here. 

What if…

 I turned slowly to see the person’s face, fear rising as the light flickers and the man looks down at me. His face was ashen and grim, but quite handsome. He resembled Adriel down to the last fleck of gold in his eyes, only his were stern and determined. He wore a tattered white shirt that clung to the armor that lay underneath. 

There was a sword sheathed at his side and a black cloth tucked beneath his helmet. “W-who are you?” I gasp shakily, my arms dropping to clutch my injured side. His voice was firm and confident, “Adriel.” 

Forget the tragic reality that he’d seen me pass out in the sight of danger.

He grips my arm carefully, motioning with his head as he pulls me to the side. “Be quiet and step where I step.” He instructs softly, his breathing creating a pattern in the dust clouded air. My lungs burned. I reached down to grab the top of my dress to use as a filter, but noticed I wasn’t wearing one. 

I was dressed in black jogging shorts and a dusted white tee underneath a dingy black jacket. Something I would’ve seen at any lost and found. 

I couldn’t remember what happened to my dress or why I was wearing this and I didn’t even begin to question why he was dressed in armor but something about it made sense… like a dream or a distant memory it felt oddly important.

A hollowed groan rasps below and I glance down in time to see a battered hand reaching for my ankle. His face was rotted and disfigured, parts of him missing, and what remained crawled with maggots that flaked off, his crusted lips dripping with blood that pooled on the floor. 

A scream curls in my throat, my heart pounding as I kick his hand away. Adriel pressed his hand against my mouth, the look of empathy shone on his face. “Wh-what was that?” I squeak as he lets off. I couldn't hide the panic in my voice nor did I have the power to keep it from shaking.

 The only thing that kept me even remotely calm was his arm around my shoulder. 

“Listen, Ara. I’m trying to tell you this as gently as possible. There’s a war going on for your soul and others. I can tell you’re a Christian, you have the light around you.” Adriel whispers, stepping over debris and presses his ear against a nearby door, listening inside. “It protects you from the infection, but you need to put your armor on.” He says with a sense of urgency, pulling back from the door, knees bent in preparation.

“You might think I'm insane, but look around you. You need to wake up.” He says and a fire lightens his eyes, causing my heart to stir. There was a small creaking noise, but before I could tell him to back away the door suddenly burst apart, the larger pieces knocking him to the floor. I spot flashes of movement through the settling particles and prepare to run. “Arabelle, get back!” I hear a muffled voice yell and I back up slowly.

 “Arabelle, run!” Terror grips me as I turn on my heels and run.

Chapter 2: Light up the night

(Arabelle)

Some say you choose your friends. Others that they choose you. If I thought I’d be prey to mine I wouldn’t have chosen. It would’ve been great to have a weapon. I think morbidly. Shock waning enough for my remaining brain cells to conjure a plan. But as the crowd of undead flooded the hallway it was enough for me to escape, scrambling over the piles of rubble.

The nearest has-been person took a swing at my arm and I stumbled just in time to avoid the hit.  

Lord, please help, was my only thought.

Each step fell like a weight as I tried shutting out the overwhelming sounds. Fear pumping its way through my veins as the groans grew louder. I press forward, my head swimming at a fresh wave of oxygen when adrenaline kicks in. 

A baseball bat flings out ahead of me like an answer to my prayer and smacks into the forehead of the nearest undead stopping her mid-lunge. My breaths are hollowing, my heart pounding at my rib cage as it aches from the pressure. I pass by another figure in the depth of the hallway, and in the corner of my eye a small beam of light reflects off another suit of armor as Eric stands proudly, smirking at his accomplishment. 

The pain of my broken ribs catch up to me and I bend over, wheezing as agony floods in. Spots dancing behind my eyes as my stomach lurches. Seeing the crowd behind me, he exhales deeply, "Looks like I have my work cut out for me." He huffs, rotating his wrist, the sword slicing through the air as he motions to the undead horde. 

I couldn't tell if he had a death wish or if he was just plain mad, but he stands there… and bows his head. He stabs his sword into the ground and murmurs what sounded like a prayer. "LORD, how are they increased that trouble me! Many are they that rise up against me. Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah. But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; My glory, and the lifter up of mine head."

Psalm 3:1‭-‬3 KJV

The zombies were getting close. The white in their eyes darkened and zero in on him. Right as the horde reaches him, a blue ring of fire erupts like a forcefield, pushing them back, some engulfed by the flame. His sword absorbs the rest, eyes narrowing as he looks up. 

He cuts through half of them with ease, his swordsmanship like an effortless dance, as the blood that splatters on his face doesn't get so much as a flinch. To the fallen, even his footsteps made them hiss and crawl back, but still more closed in. "ERIC!" Adriel calls out, finally stumbling from the wreckage and clutches his injured leg. The zombies freeze in their attack, arms and heads twitching eerily as they turn to the sound of his voice and screech.

I looked down for a weapon, for anything, but the nearest object was a small plank of wood. I manage to hoist it to my waist heaving at the weight and mentally prepare myself to swing it. He elbows one in the face while running another through and the blood catches on my jacket. "Get Arabelle to safety!" He orders through heavy breaths as one stumbles towards me. 

'I got it, I got it.' I mantra assuredly and take short breaths slowly lifting the wood.

I exhale sharply in panic when my arms give out and the creature stands ten feet away. ‘I don't got it. I don't got it, Lord help!' I didn't even have time to scream. The board slips from my fingertips and the undead nears me, his breath nauseating when he opens his mouth. Blood-stained lips peeling back as he leers, a raspy laugh leaves it as its voice hollows to form a word, "Mine." 

A sudden calm washes over me and in the moment my hand lifts itself surprisingly heavier than before. It pushes toward the undead's chest, a glowing sword appearing a split second before it impales the creature. Thick dark red blood flows down the edge of the blade and coats the handle as the dead's eyes widen in shock and confusion. It’s mouth opens for the last time, spewing blood onto the floor.

My breath comes out shaky as I pull my sword from its body and step back, watching as it collapses onto the floor and lies eerily still at my feet. "I told you I'll never leave you." I hear a voice say in my head and nod incoherently. Well, here’s to the end of the world. All my prayer life I never heard God speak so clearly. Just when I think I’ve known it all, He shows me up.

I suppress the need to vomit as it makes its way into my esophagus and look at the crowd. Eric was kneeling, two undead grappling him and Adriel was slicing through to get to him. "I got it!" He calls back and grunts as one catches him off guard and notches a dent into his breastplate. Eric staggers back with winded breath, black hair dripping with sweat as he regains himself. There were at least three more behind him and I never took fencing. 

“Jesus be a fence all around me, every day.” I start singing and the other zombies turn toward me with new hunger lighting their sight. “I want you to protect me as I travel along the way.” I tighten my hands around the handle and hold my breath when I swing, lopping off one’s head. My legs flowed with renewed energy as I danced around the bodies that hit the floor.

“That you would guide my footsteps lest I stumble and stray.” My sword was coated with blood as I spun to avoid a hit and undercut a zombie on my left. When its head rolls at my feet I finally stop, ending up beside Adriel… His lips quirk into an impressed smirk, eyebrows furrowing as he eyed my bloodied sword.

Eric bashes the last zombie in the face with his shield and sighs heavily, body nearly covered in blood as he gets up from kneeled position staring at us. 

My relieved sigh comes out in a huff as I shake my head. Eric grins, wiping the blood from his sword onto the t-shirts of the fallen. “Wow, Ara. You almost came to my rescue.” He says heavily, nodding to my sword and I scoff, a light giggle escaping me. “Yeah, well. Could I really let you go down like that?” Our history was interesting. We had a love/banter relationship so deep that anyone who knew us thought we were dating. I for one knew he’s more like Paul of today’s society. 

He had a knack for encouraging people, while at the same time lovingly smacking them upside the head. I usually ignore the sly insults he casually throws at me, or even worse the random compliments, but today he was genuine. 

I let a smile slip onto my face and glanced at Adriel who was pacing anxiously. “Yo, you alright, E?” He asks him cautiously and Eric grunts, grabbing his armor shoulder pad and pops his shoulder back in place. “Ehh, I’ll live.” He huffs through gritted teeth, sea green eyes fluttering shut as he breathes through the pain. “Nah, bro. That’s not what I just saw.” Adriel states, pointing at his armor and his jaw clenching as he glares. 

Eric clutches his side, releasing a breath as he pushes a piece of wood aside and side-eyes one of the bodies. “Yeah, I had a little issue pop up, but I’m good-” Eric excuses dismissively, but Adriel takes after him.

“Pride got in your way.” Adriel yells pointing to the dent in Eric’s armor and he sighs, “Look man, we have a bigger fish to fry. We will talk about it when we get to safety.” 

I purse my lips not wanting to interject, but there was an obvious issue. “Not to sound like an idiot, but what in the world is going on? Wasn’t there a bombing? Why are there zombies?? Was my coffee laced? Am I losing my mind?” I finally voice, staring at the two of them dubiously. 

Eric just sighs heavily and blinks mouthing ‘wow’ and looks at Adriel, “Did you not explain anything to her? She still thinks this is an earthly situation.” He says in disbelief and Adriel presses his lips together, his hands rise and fall defeatedly as they stare at me. 

“What do you mean by an earthly situation? It’s not like I’m crazy, y’all realize this isn’t normal, right? I mean there aren’t such things as zombies and what do you mean earthly situation--.” The truth hits me like a brick, reality falling into place as my mouth falls open. “You don’t mean…” There was a theory that in the end times God would drop the veil between the mortal and spiritual world and us Christians would be allowed to finally see things for what they truly were.

And here I was, completely unprepared. I worried about a dance competition of all things. I find myself shaking as an overwhelming wave of disappointment and shame rocks through me. What’s worse is I let my guard down.

“I never told her.” is all I could say as tears start to fall. I didn’t know how much time I have, but Katalina was my best friend; I never had the guts to tell her her soul was in danger. Adriel and Eric walk towards me, both placing a hand on my shoulder. “You weren’t the only one to get a wake-up call.” They tell me gently and slowly the only sound I could hear are distant screams of agony and terror. The world was no doubt turning into Armageddon while people sat in their homes, oblivious to it all. And I was one of them.

I step over another decaying body, flinching as a wail echoes through the building and sigh, despair enveloping me as we walk to the end of the hallway and freeze. A pile of debris blocked one way as far as the eye could see and the only way out was still sparking from the bombing.  

“Alright guys, looks like we can use this hallway to get out. Arabelle, use your shield.” I looked down confused, not expecting anything to happen. Slowly, a broken tower shield materializes by my side. It had a gaping hole in the middle and was crumbling on the edges. Eeesh. 

Adriel exhales heavily and Eric whistles as they look at what was left of my faith. “Are you still praying?” Eric asks finally and I scoff. When I grip the edge of the shield another piece crumbles to the floor. “Yeah, but that wouldn’t matter much, would it?” I reply disappointedly and sigh. “No, just because you pray doesn’t mean you have faith. What’s the scripture, Arabelle? Faith without works is dead.” Adriel mentions and I shake my head.

 “What I need doesn’t matter. I asked for what I need from God and He said He will supply it but what am I supposed to do when He doesn’t? Can I just sit and be miserable since the world’s coming to an end anyway?” My voice wobbles as tears flow, blocking my vision. I kick at my shield, walking away to sit on the floor across the hallway. 

I hear Eric sigh heavily, and glance over at him as he rubs sweat and grime from his forehead. Adriel lifts a hand and starts to speak but sighs, lowering his head.

“Ara.” Eric says softly, lowering himself to a squatted position beside me, “Without faith, it is impossible to please God. I know, times get rough and you don't see the road ahead. I think any given day is a trap, but this life isn’t for the pleasures of this world. Don’t get me wrong, God rewards those He loves, but when we first seek the Kingdom of God then what?” He prompts tapping my arm and I sigh.

“Then He’ll give us the desires of our heart,” I mumble sarcastically, and push my back against the wall, glancing up at him. No one seemed to understand. I prayed, and gave until my heart ached. I knew that wouldn’t give me my desire sooner but I was seeking God. All I wanted was some hope. He pulls his lip into his mouth and nods, “Alright.” He responds quickly and gets up from his spot looking down at me.

 “Get up.”

 He says sternly lifting his chin and my eyebrows quirk as I scoff, “No.” My voice wobbled defiantly, but I didn’t hide it or the fact that I didn’t feel like playing one of his games. Eric steps back, stroking the side of his beard, “You can do this the easy way or the hard way.” He taunts, unsheathing his sword and swings it with a flare, then points it at me, “I said, “get up.” I squint my eyes, determined not to give in and frustration seeps into my voice as I’ve known this guy my whole life. 

He was probably one of my best friends. My face heats and my heart pounds heavily in my chest, “I said no.” His eyes narrow and a few seconds too late until I realized he’d swung his sword. My heartbeat skips and I close my eyes.

Chapter 3: First comes love.

(Eric)

 I've never held a grudge against Arabelle.

Honestly, she was hilarious and most of the time kept to herself. She has this vulnerability of hiding herself behind walls that irritates me. She's been through a lot, so I try not to hold it against her. An abusive mother, a molester of a brother, and needless to say the trust issues that stemmed from that. I watched her on the way to school, the light in her eyes died little by little each day as court dates dragged on. Her mother was finally convicted then put in prison. 

The smile on her face disappeared and instead, she wore a very convincing mask that flashed the entire world. The moment I got to know her I knew I couldn’t set my heart on her. My goal is to focus on God's plan for me and the biggest obstacle for people my age aside from school was relationships.

I’m fine without them: talking stages and endless petty arguments. Even the apostle Paul said to follow out God's Will without distractions. And Arabelle was definitely one. I'm holding a sword to her throat and the only thought in my head was, why didn't she fight back? The world will eat her alive if she doesn't.

"Back up," Adriel says behind me, a slight irritation in his voice. "Not your battle." I dismiss and see Arabelle open her eyes. Her pupils contract from the light glinting behind me when she looks up at me I see herself in my eyes and my heart thuds. I push the emotion aside and nod to her, "Come on, Ara. Get up." My voice came out softer than I expected it to. Her eyes flutter as she blinks confused, but an understanding lights behind them and I move my blade aside allowing her to stand up. Slowly she brushes herself off, eyeing me carefully, and reaches for her sword.

"Now, I'm going to try going easy on--" I start but am cut off by her blade swinging at me so quickly I barely registered it. My reflexes caught the move and blocked it, a smile catching my lips as swing after swing her confidence lights up. We were almost evenly matched. Anger from her blow resonates off my own and stabs into the wall as I deflect without thinking and stare in awe at the purple light around her.

I retract my steps with my hands up in surrender and put my sword away. "Look."

Her heavy breaths fade as she looks down at the glow around her. "What is this?" She asks, amazed and I smile, give a nod to Adriel and walk away.

My work here is done.

"Iron sharpens Iron, Arabelle. The reason we have fellowship is to make sure one another doesn’t fall behind. Everybody feels down at times, but it’s important not to give up and rejoin the fight. Remember what God has called us to do… ‘Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.’ 1 Thessalonians 5:11.” I hear them talking behind me and my heart lifts. She had so much to learn and while I could never talk like Adriel, he never had my heart to challenge. 

We manage to get through the sparks with my shield, a few holes still smoking from my belt momentarily catching on fire. I ignored it, brushing past a concrete rod that stuck out from the wall and glancing behind me when she laughs. My jaw clenches, eyebrows furrowing, and I sigh looking away. Adriel had some nerve. He talked with her so carelessly, knowing well the crush she had on him and he still went after Katalina. I kick a board to the side angrily and release a heavy breath, pushing the thought to the back of my mind, it’s not my concern. 

"Yo, did you hear her?" Adriel calls out lifting a board out of Ara's way and she giggles, "Of course he didn't. He's over there in lala land." I’m tempted to blow up at him, but force a smile when I turn to face them, "No, what's up?" Arabelle's face was glowing with laughter. Her cheeks rising to the crinkle in her eyes as she squeals, "Dude, your belt's on fire!" 

‘Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.’ Galatians 6:1 KJV

Chapter 4: A bitter tale

(Arabelle)

We turned the corner, Eric putting the fire out of his belt, grumbling about something as we came to a split in the path. One appeared to lead out while the other winded further in, bricks littering the floor and a mournful wail echoes through. I hear Eric sigh as his arm lifts slowly, fingers pointing towards the maze of a hallway. 

He bows his head, "Alright guys, looks like the Holy Spirit wants us to go this way." He says, light in his eyes squinting as he inspects our way out, but shrugs. My mouth opens quickly and wobbles shut. Well, we're going to abandon our only way out, but alright Lord. God, please protect us, I pray internally and shrug, "Sure, okay." I agree and look at Adriel. He chuckles lightly, stepping forward to the maze of a hallway. "Well, come on, guys. Let's get out of here."

It must've been several awkward moments of silence aside from Eric’s random incoherent mumbling before we reached the center of the hallway. “Guys, can you be serious? I'm talking about releasing your inner God.” We hear in the distance. Inner what now? Eric groans and exhales and I laugh disbelieving, “You heard that too?” I query dubiously, the laughter breaking through and he huffs, shaking his head, “Just when I think things couldn't get any worse.” 

We're laughing it off, and when we turn the corner I freeze. Surrounded by her group of progressives was the choppy blonde-haired chick with red highlights. I wasn't even able to withhold my disdainful sigh, my eyes fighting not to roll as laughter fades and Adriel's lip twitches as I’m sure he was fighting not to say anything. "Hey guys." Eric greets sourly and I bite the inside of my cheeks. 

‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.’ 1 Corinthians 13:4-5, Arabelle. I remind myself as Zora gives a weak smile, glancing over at us. "I'm guessing you're the reason our friends are missing their heads?" She retorts, adamantly tilting her head in a cocky manner. 

My fists clench, but I force a smile, "Seeing as it was them or us, yes." 

Eric brushes past me, eyes calculating. "Yeah, and I notice you don't seem to have any problems with that, right?" She jeers at him, royal blue eyes glinting daringly, the corner of her lips curling into a knowing smile. "You know, murder is a sin." Zora finishes and I could almost feel my blood strain from holding back anger. "Our acts are justified before God, Zora. Can you say the same?" Eric contests, leaning back as he strokes the sides of his beard, "You know sin is a funny thing," he notes, voice rising in challenge. 

"God considers all of them equal…" he explains looking at her friends first then lets his eyes land on her. "You're just as bad lying to them about their sin as they are remaining in it." He scolds. “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” I pause to look at Zoran, “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭6‬:‭9-11‬ N‭KJV‬‬

I added morbidly and could feel their eyes burning holes through me. I couldn’t care less about their hatred for me; all that mattered was the well-being of their souls. Adriel gave an encouraging smile while Zora’s face burned with rage. “We’re not saying you’re hopeless, Zora. All we’re begging you to do is to turn to God, He’ll figure the rest out. You’ll never come to Him perfect, but I know He has a better life for you. And you’re welcome to join us if you want.” 

Eric states, breaking the wall of bitter silence, bright green eyes peering openly as he takes a step back. “I think we’ll be fine right where we are.” She huffs, clinging to her pride.

We retrace our steps to the beginning of the hallway and find the exit again, nearly getting caught by a being wandering in the dark. Its’ eyes glowed crimson and through the doorway, I caught a whiff of cinnamon rolls. I was tempted to check it out, but Eric suggested we go another way. Light from the outside world blinded me when we stepped through chunks of discarded concrete and I shield my eyes. Interestingly enough it wasn’t chaotic in the way that I thought.

Demons were all around us, flesh eating zombies walked in hordes across the streets and something like a fluorescent blue siren yelped and lept into a nearby river like a minnow. Small shadows crept along the vines that scoured the buildings and alleyways of the city. A group of red hooded witches surrounded a small house across the street and leeched the fear off of the civilians inside like pariahs. 

It looked like a jungle. Mangled vines sprouting from rooftops, cars and broken up pavement all over the city.

And we were in the wrong neighborhood.

The amount of stress flooding through me the second I see the crowd of demons turn their heads was enough to make the blood vessels in my head pop. 

I could barely handle what we deemed to be a small horde let alone the apocalypse. I turned to Eric questioning to see if he was going to prepare for the fight. 

Neither he or Adriel appeared to be alarmed in the least, they seemed even peaceful as they rested their sword and shields by their sides.

The demons hiss collectively, fair faces crumpling in skepticism and hesitantly placing their feet like they wanted to come for us but couldn't. 

Suddenly shielding their eyes as they step back, flashing lights appearing all around us embodied with wings.

“The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, And delivereth them.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭34‬:‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

We were led under heavy guard to a safe house off the coast of the city. The white brick villa house was well hidden by the trees. 

The driveway looked very much like the rest only when you glanced at it from an angle it seemed to glimmer of gold. 

We were quickly ushered inside as the sun began to set, casting an orange and purple glow over the city. A screech resounded in the distance and the angel attending us gave it a solemn glance.

"Check the windows, and lock the doors. Do not step foot out of this house alone. Do you understand?" He questions sternly, each set of his eyes darting back and forth between us as his wings flitted behind him. 

He seemed reluctant to leave us when we agreed but with a nod farewell he stretched out his wings, and before I could count the eyes on one side of his body, he was gone.

It was late in the night when I woke up. My bleary eyes struggled to see through my drowsiness, but I managed to make out a shadow passing from the gap underneath my door.

The small creaks of the wooden floor along with the whispering voices outside my door piqued my curiosity, but something in the back of my mind told me to stay in bed.

I of course chose the lesser of the choices and hobbled to the nightstand, draping my jacket along my shoulders to shield me from the cold and made my way quietly to the door.

I waited until the shadow passed and there was an odd eeriness of the air that made my hand freeze momentarily on the top of the doorknob. 

I shook my head, rolling my eyes. It's late and I'm sure we have a long journey tomorrow; I'm not going to be afraid to go to the bathroom.

I twist the knob as gently as possible and push the door open. A small squeak emitted from the door and I held my breath squeezing my eyes shut in cringe. No sound came from the hall and I exhaled gratefully, peeking around the corner.

A tall figure stood at the end of the hall, arms extending to a robe that hovered in the air. 

My eyelids flutter as my stomach whirled. There was something dark going on and though I couldn't see it, a fog drifted over me. Rash whispers filled my ears, coaxing me to take a step closer.

My previous thought and purpose dissipated quickly as I saw the figure’s face.

His cheeks were sunken and gaunt, eyes glazed over and milky white as if no light passed through. His mouth opened, wisps of air left his lips like smoke and he pointed at me, his wrinkled hand beginning to shake, "what?" I voice aloud and I could hear voices around me whisper, “It’s true, look how beautiful she is.” 

I look around me confused as another one speaks up, “No, she’s not good enough,” I tilt my head, “I beg your pardon–” but am cut off by another, “Ugh, look, her hair is knotted.” 

My head begins to spin, the outskirts of my vision begin to fade, dark spots appear in my mind and I reach out to steady myself, as anxiety overwhelms me. It bears down and feeling as if I were going to drown, I gasp for air.

“Let her go!” I hear faintly before everything goes black and the air smells of pine needles and all around me draws cold, splintering against my skin like icicles as I shiver. In the corner of my eye a mountain in the distance draws closer, the dark clouds encircling it grow darker, each ring stretching out from the mountain and closing in on me.

I see the same figure from before, now clothed in shadows and standing in the midst of the trees, the spot where it stood the grass withered turning black. The shadows gathering around him pulses like a heartbeat, the air grows colder, and the trees sway in unison.

The man looks up slowly, the paleness of his skin glowing eerily beneath his hooded black cloak. His voice came as hissing like air escaping from a pressurized can, “Assskkk me what you will… What do you wish to knowww?” As the question sunk into my mind, a sense of dread fell over me like mist and I began to despair.

“What does he think of me?” I voice aloud before I can stop myself and images of Adriel drift in the back of my mind and I frown, ‘what am I doing here?’ I ask myself, trying my best to remember when the sound of Eric’s laugh interrupts my thoughts. Sea green eyes seemed to burn through me as if he were laughing, “Foolish girl, stop dreaming.” Why would he ever notice me? Memories of Adriel talking to Katalina, her hand on his arm as she laughs while tossing her hair over her shoulder, flashes and my heart begins to ache. There was a time when his eyes sparkled when they looked at me. 

“You could never be like her…” the voices began to whisper as I watched on: Katalina’s flawless skin flushed with red as she danced in his arms, and his hand reaching over to brush a stray hair behind her ear. She looks at me, emerald green eyes piercing and taunting as if to say, “He’ll never look at you again,” with a devilish smile touching the edge of her lips.

The fog had gotten so thick now, swirling around me like a typhoon bound to swallow me whole. I looked around for a way out, noticing that the figure in black was long gone and I was now trapped on the mountain.

“Lord help!” I thought frantically and began to scream. God help me.

Chapter 5: Seeks to devour

(Eric)

I felt it like a pang in my chest. The shadows gathered from every corner of the house, like black whispers seeping from underneath the door. I woke in a sweat, time seemed to slow down the faster I tried to move, my feet like anchors as I tried to swing them out of the bed. My head was heavy, eyelids threatening to droop as I struggled to lift my body and rush toward the door. “Lord, you are my strength. My ever present help in times of trouble…” 

I grunt, mustering the strength to push through the fog cornering the outskirts of my mind.“Yes, she will fall.” I hear voices echo from outside the door and bite down on my lip, hard enough to draw blood causing my mind to clear momentarily. “Adriel!” I shout, pulling my sword from its hilt and swing, decapitating a nearby shadow that simply melts into the floor.

His eyelids lift, but reveal glazed eyes that were dull and almost lifeless. A slender womanly presence rises from the floor, the scent that drifted from it was like a poisonous cinnamon candle. The very smell intoxicating, warming and numbing to my senses while it bit at my conscious soul. I slice with my sword, “Back you Jezebel!” I yell, unable to recall a verse that would help me. 

 The figure screeches angrily, its form dispersing like smoke around my sword as it makes contact, and hazes disorientedly over to Adriel, who’s lying eerily still on the bed and hovers over him then solidifies, extending an olive skinned hand. 

I exhale aggravatedly, march toward the door, and push it open in time to see Arabelle walking in a trance towards a giant black widow. “Let her go!” I yell, and charge, but my feet hadn’t even left the door frame when something grabs and drags me backward. I hear a crunch as talons pierce through my chest plate, sinking into my shoulders. I cry out, but the sound never passes my lips.

 A woman with vivid green eyes, olive tanned skin and jet black hair curled in ringlets towers over me. Her voice dripped with honey as her lips parted to reveal the whitest smile I’ve ever seen, “And just what- do you think you’re doing, love?” 

The irises of her eyes kept changing like a pinwheel. The style and length of her hair changed as well when her expression turned grim. “Him,” she sighs, almost sounding bored and pointing to Adriel, “I have already.” “But you…” She hisses, grabbing my jaw and forcing me to look into her eyes.

 “Why can’t I read you?” she looms, dark eyes flashing with disgust. Images of Arabelle flash through my mind and I grimace, ‘Lord, please protect her,’ I think and force my mind to clear itself. “There must be someone you lust after… there’s always something with you humans. You can never be content.” She sneers looking at Adriel, her appearance looking oddly similar to Katalina.

 “Well of course a pretty girl is nice, but a woman who can draw a crowd with just her eyes is a must-have.” She states, her pupils dilating and the color of her eyes shifting to a medium brown as she turns to face me. 

“The eyes of the Lord are on those that fear Him…” I begin to quote, shutting my eyes and her grip falters. “Don’t quote scripture to me, boy!” She hisses, saliva almost hitting my face, “Don’t you know I was there while it was in the works?” 

She curses bitterly, face twisting in jealousy, “Blessed children of the Father.” She spits on the ground towards my feet, angrily pushing my face away and mutters, “But what of the angels?” 

One moment was all it took. She looks down in a daze as if trying to remember, mumbling about the foundation when I seize my sword and raise it to her throat. “In Jesus’ name, let him go.” I command, gripping the hilt tight enough that my knuckles begin to pale. She flinches at the name wailing as if I struck, and her hold on Adriel dissipates.

 He gasps for air, bolting upright in the bed. His breathing steadies as the color in his cheeks return and he grabs his sword. Adriel seems to phase through time, eyes narrowed and fixated on her; he reaches us and swings, “In the name of Jesus, leave us!” He shouts. 

Her form dissolved into swirls of black glittery mist as his blade made contact, hissing as it passed through the fog of where she once stood. Her words hang like a bitter promise in the air. “I-” He starts to say and his shoulders fall, but I cut him off. “Not now. Arabelle!” I shout and burst through the door. 

Chapter 6: The two…

(Arabelle)

They told me about how they pulled me from the spider’s lair beneath the house and how it disappeared in a puff of shadows the moment they rescued me, but all I could focus on was the wild look in Eric’s eyes. His gaze seemed unfocused and distraught as he recalled the events, his eyes shifting to the floor when I asked about the holes in his armor and the blood. 

“There was a Jezebel spirit…” Adriel says softly and Eric interjects, giving Adriel a glance that looked like, ‘later,’ “Are you okay?” He asks, looking me over thoroughly. His eyes are almost unnervingly gentle and my lips twitch into a nervous smile as I shrug, “I’m alright, but…” I start to touch his shoulder despite myself and shake my head, “Dude, you’re still bleeding!” 

I was used to the silence, but the silence that drifted between the three of us as Eric’s wounds were being bandaged were deafening. I’d never felt so out of place. “So… umm…” Adriel starts and Eric winces, green eyes flashing dangerously at Adriel, “Sorry man.” We continued in the awkward silence long enough for my mind to drift back to last night at the dance competition.

The explosions that rocked the building, parts of the ceiling falling and landing in huge chunks all around me. I couldn’t process it at that time, but some of my friends, people I’d known for years, were crushed beneath the debris. Images of their bloodied lifeless bodies lying beneath the rubble wracked my consciousness and my stomach began to churn.

I struggled to experience the flashbacks. I hoped the more I accepted that it happened the less it would bother me, but the way my supposed-to-be dance partner’s face had rotted and peeled... his eyes, once light gray and playful, had shifted to black and were tinged with hatred. 

They bore into me, right as I screamed and kicked away his rotted hand. I gagged on the smell of sulfur and death streaming from down the hallway completely reliant on Adriel's calmness as he led me the rest of the way. To Eric… It slowly dawned on me that someone was speaking and because of my lack of response I was being shaken. 

Eric’s eyes gazed down at me, face etched with worry, “Goodness, Arabelle. Where did you go?” He asks and rubs his forehead, a frown skewing the curve of his cheeks as he sits on the bed beside me. “Nevermind, after an experience like that… I think it's only fair that we all talk about it.” He glares at Adriel who mumbles something, eyelashes sweeping across his cheeks as he looks at the floor. 

Eric’s jaw clenches and I can tell by the way his eyes narrow that he’s trying his best to stay calm, “What was that?” He grits, his voice on the far end of gentle. Adriel’s hazel eyes find their way up, slowly meeting mine. “I said… I’m sorry Arabelle. This, all of what happened… is my fault.” He sighs motioning to the bloodied bandages and traces of cobwebs that scattered the floor. 

My eyebrow wrinkles, a feeling of dread welling up in me, and before I could stop him, the lump now forming in my throat, or even my own thoughts, he continues, “I knew that you liked me. At some point I relished the idea of having someone like you by my side as a cheerleader while I did my own thing.”

 Each word plunged deeper into my heart, tearing it open from the inside. Somehow I knew, I just didn’t want to believe it. I wanted to think that maybe I just wasn’t being patient enough. That he’d soon see me. My face heats as I nod numbly and before I could stop myself, I was walking out the door. I didn’t know when the tears came, only that they started to fall.

I made it to the hallway and ran, faintly hearing Eric calling my name. I told him to leave me alone and that I was fine, a lie. “Just go away,” I yell, trying to suppress the hurt and push past his arms trying to wrap around me in comfort. I wiped my face, cursing at myself.

I don’t know when I made it outside, only that the trees became a blur as I passed them and there was warmth in the voice that followed me. “I’m not going anywhere.” He voices sternly, but it was too soothing and I turn to face him angrily. He had his arms outstretched to me, and his face was gentle and filled with understanding; tears welled in my eyes as I grit my teeth.

“It’s okay.” He says softly, calm in his green eyes that search my face, “Let it go.” I sat on the ground, placing a hand on my chest trying to slow the ache in my heart from overwhelming me, and curled up to the tree next to me. Tears slid uncontrollably down my face as I shook. His arms wrapped around me in comfort as my heart wretched.

The sun crept up in the sky and I awakened to the familiar warmth. My cheeks burned when I looked up to Eric’s eyes staring down at me, but with a grateful beat of my heart I noticed that he’d distanced himself. 

I cringe in embarrassment, wiping the slimy drool from my cheek as I sit up, grimacing as some of it stays behind leaving a visible trail on my shirt. “Ummm…” I stammer, my cheeks flushing as I look away and try to appear nonchalant as I wipe the crust from my eyes.

He gives me a light smile, thankfully not mentioning it and props himself up against the tree, “Looks like you at least had a good night’s rest…” he starts green eyes tentative and calculating as he searches mine. I notice a few leaves sticking out from his messy black hair which brings a slight smile to my face and I clear my throat.

“It wasn’t the worst.” I admit self consciously tugging at my own hair to make it look more presentable. Why did I care? The question stung at an already sore spot and I wince, saddened once again by last night’s events that I wish I’d forgotten. Eric looks at me as if he wanted to say something but then his mouth tightens just as quickly, his face hardening again, eyes narrowing as he focuses on the ground. 

“Well!” A cheery voice says from behind us causing us both to jump startled. “We have a long trip ahead, I hope your bags are packed!”

Chapter 7: tongue tied 

(Eric)

The angel gave me a knowing glance as he guided us to the awaiting car. Our bags somehow tucked inside the trunk. The ride there was miserable. Each of us caught in our own train of thought and the voiceless frustration that plagued us made the happy song streaming from the radio sound muffled.

My heart pounded in my chest, my brain buzzing in irritation as I tried to think of what to say to her. ‘I’m sorry about yesterday… how are you feeling?’ That would only reveal me to be a jerk for bringing it up. ‘We need to hang again…’ She would take that as me trying to comfort her out of pity. 

I groan, finally deciding to rest my head on the seat in front of me staring out the window. Things always worked out in the end. I had to believe that for my case. I’d been out of the social game for so long my mannerisms boiled down to too nice or too mean. I wasn’t sure how nice was too nice or how mean was too mean.

“Hey, Eric…” Arabelle calls from the front seat and when she turns her head to face me I realize her ebony cheeks were flushed red, brown eyes still puffy from crying, “th-thanks.” I give her a warm smile and nod, not trusting my voice or my brain. He’s an idiot, I think openly. My mind drifted back to the dance competition. I asked her if she was okay to dance with him and she smiled at me. 

I'm an idiot. I think frustratedly and let my forehead rest against the seat in front of me. Just what was I thinking? Several hours must’ve passed because I looked up to see us pulling into a gated driveway.

Chapter 8: Hurting people

(Arabelle)

My mind was officially blown. I couldn’t help but gape at the lush green hills that seemed to go on forever. The black and gold gate ahead retracted for our car to pass through and we stopped. Getting out in a daze, I hadn’t even noticed when our car left the scene. It was so beautiful. In the middle of the beige pathway lay a circular garden bed of red tulips and lilies and in the center stood a luxurious fountain. 

The top of it etched into a maple tree, its ivory leaf shaped bowls spiraled down on each side forming a circle that touched the bottom. Beyond the fountain stood a vast white mansion with a red tiled roof, a row of cone shaped bushes on each side, the balcony above adorned with red and white roses. The sunset lights the beige walkway in a coral flush. The trickling of the fountain like music, each note soothing to my heart but made my soul ache.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” A velvety voice announces from behind me, making me jump as I turn. The man radiated confidence, it was laughable that despite the breeze his light brown hair tousled flawlessly. “U-umm, yeah.” I stammered as his golden brown eyes held mine like he was trying to peer into my soul. 

He looked familiar, but I couldn’t place where I knew him from. My cheeks flush despite myself and I smile apologetically to the stranger, “Sorry.” The guy shakes his head, warmth in his smile reaching his eyes and I’m reminded of the all American boy doll. 

I stifle a laugh, my attention caught at the way he takes a step back from the fountain. The motion was smooth and calculating, but there was a hint of sadness in the mesmerizing dance of his golden eyes. “This place has that effect on people.” He explains, tucking his hands into his jeans and realizing that I was wide eyed staring. I immediately look away, grateful when I spot Eric up ahead. 

“You ready to go, buttercup?” He asks when he approaches us and I scowl at the nickname, “I told you not to call me that…” I state quietly glancing behind me to see the guy looking between us. “Yeah well, consequences of stealing my pudding.” He reminds me and I look at him incredulously, “Seriously dude? That was in the fifth grade! I don’t even like pudding anymore.” 

He shrugs, pushing the black hair away from his face, green eyes flashing something I can't name and holds out his hand, “Doesn’t matter. You reap what you sow.” 

I’m tempted to slap his hand but refrain and glare at him instead, “God said that vengeance was his...” I mumble, finding our usual banter to be lacking in its frustration, somehow managing to make me feel embarrassed in front of the guy I just met.

I walked away from the stranger’s questioning eyes that gazed into the back of my head and Eric’s extended hand, and headed towards the angel that escorted us here. 

“- the engagement ceremony is coming up, it’s only a matter of time before the enemy decides to strike…” 

A man in a black suit tells him and stops when he looks at me. His almost black eyes narrow when he looks at me and I purse my lips awkwardly.

“Sorry to interrupt, I just want to know where to go…” I ask, shrinking underneath his gaze.

“It’s no issue.” He says, shoulders lowering into a relaxed state as if he decided I wasn’t challenging. 

He waves his bronzed hands to a tall and slender auburn-haired woman walking past us and it catches her attention, “She’ll lead you to where you want to go.” He says, forcing a smile.

I smile back hoping to minimize my presence and trail behind the woman he suggested. 

We gathered in the dining area, the large mahogany table seating 24 of us, and when we took our place at the table, an Asian man seated beside me nods. His smile was strikingly sweet. “What group are you?” He asks, inclining his head toward Eric and Adriel. My eyebrows furrow, lips parting in question, but Eric speaks for me, “We’re in Benjamin for the meantime.” 

I begin to question how he knew when the asian guy, who I found his name on his shirt to be Joshua, speaks up, “If you want there’s a party going on later tonight…” He suggests questioningly thick black hair flopping over his forehead. 

I wasn’t sure how to say: ‘I just got majorly rejected by a guy I should’ve known didn’t like me and I’d rather bury myself alive after this is all over.’ I smile politely, trying to find a decent excuse when the guy from the fountain approaches our group, “Hey, buttercup was it?” 

“Just Arabelle is fine.” I provide quickly, confused at the twinge of misplacement and push the random emotion aside. 

His cheeks pull into a knowing smile, a challenge hidden behind the piercing of his gaze. It throws me off and ‘what do you need?’ got caught in my throat as I blush, tearing my eyes away to look at the floor. 

“My name is Lincoln Miller, I know some of you may be confused, so after dinner each of you may go to your dorms and then in the morning we’ll have a meeting…” He states spreading his hands openly, the rings on his left hand catching my attention. That’s where I knew him from! Wait a minute… I’ve just met my childhood crush... And he was in charge, I cringe.

His eyes fell on me and I realized he’d asked the group a question, “Yes?” I answer tentatively and he just laughs, the sound traveling through the room and I want to shrink into my chair. 

“You’re volunteering to clean the ballroom?” He asks, the image of me jamming to my sad playlist as I mopped the floors popped into my mind and I shrug, “Sure, why not?” 

 His smile deepens, a curiosity in his eyes when he looks at me and I take a glance around the room. Eric’s jaw was clenching and unclenching, a clear sign he was agitated, Adriel was looking intently into the other room, and Joshua was grinning staring back at me. 

I look back to see the group speaker, Lincoln, laughing. “Does this woman ever pay attention?” he asks, eyes twinkling with laughter and I shift in my seat, “I’m sorry?” I ask looking for clues in his demeanor but he simply shakes his head, “It’s quite alright. I know it’s a lot to take in. You go to your dorm and we’ll send someone up to let you know when you can start cleaning.” 

Eric met with me afterwards and walked me to my room, muttering something like, “Stupid jerk, I’ve got enough on my plate… She’s not even had time to process…” I wanted to ask but the way things had been between us I didn’t think being more personal would’ve helped.

I didn’t know why he escorted me. I mean given the choice between wandering the huge mansion in silence I’m not sure the random mumblings of an angry man was much better. 

I thanked him when we reached the room, his eyes meeting mine, something like worry shining back at me. “I’m fine.” I say, not sure if I was trying to convince him or me. He doesn’t say anything, only gives me a sad smile before he leaves and I duck into the room.

Chapter 9: Once a Villain…

(Arabelle)

I plug in my headphones, turning the volume on my phone to full blast, striding down the hall trying to memorize the twists and turns in the corridor.

I couldn’t wrap my mind around why Arden Miller’s adopted son would be here… I mean I knew he had enough money to do whatever he wanted from modeling.

He quit a few years ago and disappeared from the spotlight altogether after his dad got in a car crash, but after Lincoln's uncle adopted him, and his mental breakdown, he began starring in movies and TV series to readjust his public image. (One of the few celebrity crushes that I found to be sensible. I mean he was a genius on set and from what I heard, a good Christian man…)

When I finally reached the ballroom, the lights were faded, and the floor was littered with cups and streak marks. I sigh, grabbing the nearest trash bin and begin picking up the cups, stacking them inside each other. I glower at my phone when the song ‘Just the two of us’ by Bill Withers plays. I’d used to imagine Adriel when I heard it. 

I frown. I really shouldn’t have set my heart on him. A tear falls, tickling the edge of my chin, I swipe at it with my sleeve and sigh. Overly friendly people like him tend to gain people’s trust quickly, they don’t understand the power they have. I thought that after a while of Adriel only asking me to have Bible studies with him that he wasn’t interested, but to go so far as to string me along, knowingly?

“That's a good song!” I hear as the song ends and flinch, turning to see Lincoln smiling and pause my music. I bite the inside of my cheek, worried that I won't be able to hide the redness in my eyes or the tears on my face. 

I didn’t have the energy to throw on a bright smile or even look like I didn’t want to be approached. 

I push my headphones back anyway to show him some respect and nod to be polite, placing another stack of discarded cups into the trash bin. I tilt my head so he couldn’t see my face, “Yeah it’s one of the classics.” I mumble quietly.

I didn’t feel like talking, but I didn’t want to be rude. Can’t I just bury myself in my work and vent to God? … and get over this ache in my heart. 

His expression softens as he looks intently into my face. I inwardly groan. I should’ve just waited to cry. That way no one could interrupt. My eyebrows knit as I squirm underneath his open gaze and my face starts to heat. Why was he staring at me?

I glance at the floor, trying to slow my breaths. I was usually great at pretending so that people wouldn’t see my real emotions, but for some reason right now, I can’t. I wait for him to just decide I’m weird and leave.

Instead, Lincoln clears his throat, “I’m sorry to interrupt you, but here’s my number. If you’re feeling up for it tomorrow, meet me on the balcony at sunrise.” With that he hands me a business card and walks away, leaving me open mouthed. 

What? Why?

Theories pop up, but I dismiss them just as quickly, shove the note into my pocket and restart my music. Ah, I guess he was one of those people that insisted on being helpful, you know the overly neighborly that makes you a meatloaf or a housewarming gift. 

I never liked when it came time for ‘fellowship’ at my church. It was really just a time for people to spread germs and look nice. They’d ask ‘How are you doing?’ And I’d throw in a quick awkward smile because if I answered honestly they wouldn’t care and move on.

I didn’t want to feel like a bother. I just wanted to feel like I belonged… and the last time I entertained the idea of belonging with someone … Another tear finds its way down my cheek as I huff, snatch the mop from the wall and get back to work. 

By the time I’m finished, sweat is trickling down my neck and I feel a sense of accomplishment briefly uplift my spirit as I walk back to my room. A small sigh echoes on the inside of my heart, ‘I need for you to trust in Me.’ I turned around to see whom the voice belonged to, and frowned as I was the only one in the hallway. 

Great. Now I’m deranged. It’s not like I didn’t have enough problems… I tell myself and laugh morbidly at the idea of me going insane. It was a possibility, I mean who sees zombies and witches…

I plop onto the bed, sadness seeming to follow me. I grab a bible from the dresser and open it. The first few verses catch my attention, but drive a wedge deeper in my heart.

 ‘Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.’

Ecclesiastes 4:9‭-‬10 KJV

Having this verse repeated to me was like having a knife in my chest. Just my daily reminder that I’m alone. But God why? Everyone seemed to have someone, but anytime I got close to anyone I got hurt. There was a time I could share my burden with Katalina, but I can’t tell if it was all a lie and now I wasn’t sure if I would ever see her again. 

Why? What is so wrong with me? I hadn’t noticed when I started crying, only that broken sobs tore from my heart and I ended up sounding like a dying bullfrog.

Chapter 10: Rest

(Arabelle)

The clock struck 6:45 A.M. 

My eyes felt sore from staying awake and my pink fluffy pajamas started giving me depression. I picked the lint from the blanket and sigh, glancing toward the mirror above the dresser at my wayward hair. I was beginning to hate myself. I felt ugly the more I looked, and the more I tried to reason that I wasn’t as pathetic as I felt.

I sigh in frustration and groaning for the 100th time. I wasn’t going to get any less lonely being here if I kept making excuses about why I can’t go,or any answers I had about Lincoln’s story. I find myself mumbling again and finally just decide to go. 

Even if he was doing this out of pity, at least I could check one item off my bucket list to meet him. I got dressed quickly into gray sweatpants, and a sweatshirt, pulled my poofed out wavy hair into a ponytail, and slipped my feet into a pair of black slides. I didn’t have much in the department of outfits, but this was a last minute thing so I hope he wouldn’t mind.

I sigh, noticing the dark circles under my eyes. Thankfully my dark skin tone normally hid the flush to my face as people hardly noticed. I grab my bible, a notebook, a pen from the dresser; heading towards the hallway. Part of me wanted to dress up when I pass a few mirrored doors along the way and I fought the need to change, ‘I’m seeing a potential friend. I will feel comfortable in what I’m wearing. I shouldn’t have to impress anyone.’ 

I reach the balcony right as the sky begins to brighten, spotting a round glass table with two cups of freshly brewed coffee. Mmmm. The smell of hazelnut and vanilla wafts past my nose and I sigh happily as it reminded me of my part time job. My face falters quickly when I realize I may never go back.

 “Hey, princess. I thought you wouldn’t show up.” A voice announces behind me, I turn to Lincoln, bible and notebook in hand looking just as homely. He points to my attire with a roguish smile curling his lips, I tighten my fingers on the edge of my sleeves, a light smile crossing my face as I blush. “I didn’t feel like dressing up either.” He admits walking towards me, motioning that he’d pull out one of the chairs.

I avert my gaze, sitting down across from him. I pull a stray curl from the front of my face, tucking it behind my ear, “Hi.”

 My eyes are drawn by the sun beginning to rise, the rays bathing his face in its surreal light, making his eyes appear otherworldly as they gleam. I fidget with my promise ring, touching the surface of my bible.

It’d been a while since I talked with someone outside my friend group. What do normal people even talk about anymore? Lincoln shifts in his seat, his eyes shifting over the balcony to the fountain below with a solemn gaze, “Hi, I hear it’s been quite rough for you guys these last couple of days… how are you feeling?” 

Maybe it was the genuine kindness in his eyes, but something in me broke, I couldn’t say my normal spiel of, ‘I’m doing fine.’ I shifted my eyes to the table and blink hard. I didn’t want to appear weak, but I couldn’t speak. I tried, but even the thought of explaining that I haven’t been able to cope with what I’d gone through made me overwhelmed with emotion.

“I’m sorry,” Lincoln expresses, voice softening when he notices my hesitation and his hands reach for mine, “I’ve heard from Eric that your friend group has gone through quite a bit of trauma together so I was hoping to make you feel a bit more welcome. I’m not always so overbearing.” He says smiling gently and I inwardly curse myself for being so vulnerable. 

“No, you’re fine… I-I just…” I couldn’t finish my sentence. I can’t bother him with the details of my life when he was just being polite. “I’ve just been through a lot…” I couldn’t bring myself to look him in the eye because his gaze was open and intent with kindness, the more I wanted to open up.

“I understand… when I first got here it was hard for me too…” He says after a while and pauses to smile warmly. I swallow the lump in my throat.

 “I’ve had a lot of people challenge my walk with God and even though I’ve been in charge for the last few years, they still want someone else to lead. I get it, I was an actor in Hollywood, and I used to live for the world, but back then I was still trying to get to know other believers. It really hurt for me to hear that. I only thought of how I felt…” 

He chuckles gently to himself then brushing the stubble on his chin, “What I mean is don't shut people out because you’re afraid. It’ll often lead you to pull away further.”  

I heard a wistful sigh leave him and for a moment he looked as if he was torn on what to say next, “Are they still that way towards you?” I ask and he grimaces, nodding. “Yeah, and in a way I don’t think it’ll change…”

I grabbed the cup in front of me, taking a sip, “I have a hard time trusting people…” I mumble lightly. A part of me wishes I’d keep it to myself, but did I really need to be quiet when what I truly wanted was a friend? 

“To be honest with you, I feel the same...” He says and the silence was oddly comfortable because for a moment, I felt heard. He laughs almost bitterly and when he looks at me, there’s redness in his eyes, “I don’t know why I’m telling you this, I’m sorry…” He says softly and I frown. 

Opening up to a complete stranger was the kind of intimacy an introvert like me tended to avoid, but for some reason, right now I didn’t mind. He was being honest with me as a leader and it kind of felt nice.

“You’re different than I expected you to be.” I almost whisper and when he laughs, my heart smiles. “Don’t tell me, you were a fan of mine growing up?…” Lincoln asks, groaning and I snort, “But of course! The Salvation series was my absolute fave!” I gushed exaggeratedly and his eyes shut as his face crumpled mortified, “The CGI was so cringe worthy I don't know why it lasted as long as it did.” He states laughing and a cheeky grin forms on my face. 

I couldn’t tell him, ‘Well, you were every girl’s dream guy, duh!’ 

He tilts his head, with a smile tugging the corner of his lips, “You know, I come here when I’m sad… I haven't shared a cup of coffee with anyone in a while.” He snorts, eyes dancing curiously at me, “God’s been telling me things are going to change and a part of me is afraid, I guess that’s the real reason I asked you to join me.” 

My eyebrows climb, but I listen, taking a few gulps of the coffee that was steadily cooling down, “...something about your presence when I first saw you, seemed approachable. I think it would be great if we could talk from time to time.”

“You know, I get strange answers when I ask God about something I want...” I start and Lincoln tilts his head. “I don’t really know how to be friends with someone right now…” I finish and he smiles softly at me first then chuckles lightly.

“Maybe we can figure it out together?” He asks.

A crowd rushes past us as an alarm blares and I thought, ‘great, now what?’ Lincoln sighed, making his way to the front of the group. He appeared relatively calm compared to the crowd swarming the hall to see what the commotion was all about. 

“Everyone! Everyone! Back to your dorms!!! Everything is alright!” Shawn urges motioning to another guy in charge. He manages to diffuse the situation claiming that the alarms were just a training exercise.

Lincoln frowns, “Looks like we’ll have to reschedule our date.” He sighs walking away just as Eric and Adriel walk up to me.

I balk at the fact that he called it a date and laugh. 

“Ha, very funny Lincoln.” Eric says and rolls his eyes, but when he turns to me I avoid his gaze. As the crowd dispersed, Adriel grabbed my shoulder gently, leaning in so I could hear him, “What did Lincoln mean you guys are going on a date?” he asks and I sigh, pulling away from him, rolling my eyes. “I’m pretty sure he was joking,” I retorted, shaking my head and when I saw his expression, I scoffed, “Why do you even care?”

I reasoned as he glanced at me questioning. “Arabelle, I’m worried about you.” I see Eric about to interject and smile, “I’m fine.” I reassure him and turn to Adriel, “Look, you can say you’re worried about me, but your actions show something different.” 

I fight the onslaught of emotions welling up in me as his eyes soften, “I don't mean to…” Adriel starts but I scoff, “You don't mean to worry or you don't mean to be a jerk?” I ask, giving into my frustration and for a moment he looks torn, “Both.” He finally told the truth, it isn’t like I matter to him anyway. “Well, don't worry too much.” I say, spin on my heel and walk away.

I caught up to Lincoln who looked irritated, staring down at the phone in his hand. He mumbles, tapping the screen repetitively and I purse my lips unsure of how to begin when he suddenly notices I’m standing there. “Oh, ummm… hey.” He greets, almost embarrassed as he tucks his phone away and gives me his full attention.

“So…” I start, and he smiles. “I-I’ve thought about it and I would like to…” “Date?” Lincoln asks, smirking and leaning forward. I laugh incredulously, “I’d like to have fellowship with you.” He frowns jokingly, eyes dancing as he looks at me, “That sounds like a date to me.”

When I tilt my head and give him an admonishing look he lifts his hands in surrender, “Okay, okay. Name your time and place…”

Chapter 11: Convoluted

(Lincoln)

The judges insisted that I get married before assuming leadership so I don’t fall to temptation. There major problems being that I didn’t even know how to lead an actual relationship. When I was in the world I dated around and did whatever I wanted, but when I became a Christian, I wasn’t really sure on the matter of dating. 

I mean, what does dating for marriage supposed to look like? 

Any time I saw someone I might have been interested in, they began dressing flashy and I had to run from the risk of impurity or they start acting like they wanted something. If I had to get married at least I should learn how to be friends with a woman. 

When I saw Arabelle act so reserved and shy, I thought it was nice for a change. I resonated with her personality and after hearing her story, it only made me more curious about her.

The final group of guards arrive in the training hall, and Shawn takes note of who showed up. Normally, I was alert and would listen to the upcoming changes, but my mind was elsewhere. 

“Earth to Lincoln!!” Shawn screams and I’m so scatterbrained I end up dropping my phone, fumble to catch it, and it ends up in the fountain. I sigh. “Yes?” I ask crouching down to fetch it out of the water; ignoring the scattered laughter from the guards. “And this,” he says pointedly, motioning to me as I tilt my phone allowing the water to flow out of it, “is why we need 300 extra guards!” 

“We really don’t though.” I mumble turning my phone on only for it to tell me it's dying.

“I heard that!” He protests avidly, then searches the crowd to make a spectacle out of someone, “You!” He screams pointing to the first soldier who laughed, “tell me, Xavier. Why is it important that we protect our klutz King Lincoln?” 

The guard lifts his chin, laughter disappearing from his face, “So we can provide shelter for our brothers and sisters in Christ, sir!” He announces loudly and Shawn nods pacing in front of him and stops, “Then why have we slacked on our duty?” He asks and laughter erupts from the guards again. “And just what is so funny?!” Shawn screams and I could swear the vein on his forehead was about ready to pop.

In the corner of my eye I see a girl running past us towards the field of flowers in a pretty white dress, her long blonde hair flowing in the wind. Everything looked serene except for the fact that she was screaming bloody murder because the hem of her dress was on fire. 

We managed to get the situation under control. Apparently one of the guys tried to invent a nonflammable coating, mixed it wrong and when he lit the girl’s dress on fire nothing could put it out.

She looked at me, eyes widened in horror, mascara streaking down her face and was screaming something in Vietnamese? I nod to her, trying to reassure her that everything was going to be okay. “Does anyone speak her language?” I ask the guards surrounding me and a tall brunette joins us calming the girl. 

Once arriving in the dining hall, I scanned the crowd hoping to see Arabelle, but noticed Eric as he carried two plates back to his seat, “Hey, umm. Is Arabelle…?” I try to ask, but he cuts me off, “She’s not available.” My lips purse as I almost say, ‘Well duh,’ Instead I respond politely with, “I can see that.”

 He starts to walk off then turns to me. “Look, bro. I got nothing against you, but Arabelle needs to heal. She doesn’t need some Dark Knight to sweep her off her feet or whatever it is you’re trying to do.” 

“Dark knight?” I ask and scoff as I note his expression remaining serious. My eyebrows climb when he laughs darkly, sea green eyes flashing dangerously as he studies me. “Like I said, or whatever.” He walks off. I exhale aggravatedly, sure he was arrogant enough to make me want to insult him, but he was right. It did seem like she needed to heal. 

His reference to Batman irked me for the same reason that everyone else was convinced that I didn’t have what it took to be a leader. I’ve proven myself time and time again over the last few years but it seemed like no one took me seriously.

Halfway through dinner I finally spot her across the room and my breath catches in my chest. One of the guys sitting next to me noticed me tensing and asked if I was okay.

“I’m good.” I respond quickly when our eyes meet. Her eyes were so beautifully dark and intense I’d lost all train of thought until she finally looked away.

Chapter 12: My grievance against you

Arabelle

So many thoughts ran through my head when I paced in front of the door, but I knew I was excited to meet with Katalina again. There was so much I had to explain. I finally had a reality check on Adriel and I wanted to vent to her, but they were together, there was no way it’d go over well. I can’t believe I was in love with him. I sigh, sitting on my bed finally and bow my head. “Lord, help me to forgive him.” I mumble quietly, nibble on my lip with a frown. 

What was I going to tell her? It’s not like she wasn't going to find out anyway. Ugh. Why did Adriel even approach me earlier? Acting like he was concerned… I find another tear brimming on the lower lid of my eyes and threatens to fall. I place my head in my hands and sigh. I text Eric what happened, but get no response. 

It was worth a try. 

I spot Lincoln’s business card sticking out from my pile of clothes and frown. I wanted to talk with someone and he seemed friendly enough, but I didn’t want to end up using him. I muster the strength and grab it. 

“Hello?” He greets after the third ring and I nearly swallow my tongue, “Umm hi…” I mumble, scrambling for words. I wanted to invite him to go with me to meet Katalina because I didn’t feel like being alone, but after our previous conversation… It was awkward. I didn’t want him to think I was trying to hit on him or anything…

I hear him chuckle.

“Would you like to go on a walk with me?” He asked and I cringe inwardly at myself. “Umm…” I utter after a while of trying to find the right words when there’s a rap on my door, “I’m sorry, I gotta go.” I reason quickly and hang up.

“I didn’t want to take no for an answer.” Lincoln explains with a dubious grin when I open the door and dry laugh leaves me, “You’re saying I need exercise?” 

He rolls his eyes, extending his hand, “I think everyone needs exercise.” “What’s with the get-up?” I ask snarkily, thankful that he could take a joke in stride and wasn’t making things awkward. My eyebrows raise at his outfit, the sleek black combat uniform fitting him well in an apocalyptic avenger kind of way.  

He shrugs with a mischievous smirk making me shake my head, “Eh. Just in case.” I stepped through the door until the scent of his cologne made me falter. He smelled like dark chocolate mixed with strawberry wine, reminding me of my old apartment.  

Random music and laughter from the dorms blending together distracted me enough and when we made it outside I felt even more alone with him. “Thank you.” I mutter and he sighs, was that from relief? Truth be told, his company was comforting. I mean I knew eccentric guys couldn’t be taken too seriously, but we could be friends… right?

Lincoln clears his throat interrupting my thoughts and I look up at him. His irises were amber now as he searched my expression, I swallowed the lump in my throat, tearing my eyes away. “Can I ask you something?” He asks once we’ve reached the retracting gate and I can’t bring myself to face him. 

“Sure.” I divulge while biting my nails. “What happened between you and Adriel?” He asks plainly and I nearly choke, my jaw dropping at the unexpectant question and I turn to face him confused, “What do you mean?”

Lincoln sighs, stepping closer to me, golden brown eyes tentative as he stares into mine, “I mean…” He voices softly, “What happened to make you think you weren’t worthy of anyone’s affection?” His eyes bore into mine and they were so intricate and daring that I almost didn’t want to look away. “…” My lips quiver and part to speak, but nothing comes out. My eyelids flutter as I blink emphatically. When he faces away from me, my breath returns.

Chapter 13: A toast… to my incompetence!

(Lincoln)

When I turned away, she released a shaky breath and I mentally punched myself. Heat rising in my cheeks when she stares off into the distance. “I’m so sorry, Arabelle. I don’t always realize when I ask personal questions.” I state exhaling, completely mortified and run a shaky hand through my hair. 

“Umm… is that a giant scarab?” I hear her hushed voice pondering and turn to see a dust cloud forming in the distance. Kudos to the voices behind me that saved me from myself, “Arabelle, you called?” I hear a smug tone and almost recant my previous statement. 

Eric glares at me openly, noticing the raw expression on my face and I close my eyes. Great. Just wonderful. 

“Yeah, Katalina said she was stranded somewhere and needed a place to go, but I haven’t really been here before and you seemed pretty familiar with the area.. but Lincoln showed up.” Arabelle spews awkwardly, fidgeting with a ring on her right hand index finger. She doesn’t meet my gaze, and a slight blush lines her face, I groan. How did I make this situation remarkably worse?

I lift my hands in surrender, beginning to plead my case, sensing his dislike for me, souring his expression, “Hey.. umm what are we all doing here?” A few more voices ask and I turn to the voices barely stopping the glare from forming on my face when I see Adriel. “That’s a good question…” Eric remarks, eyes burning into me, then pauses, “Is that a giant scarab?”

Needless to say, indeed it was a giant scarab. About a few feet taller than my 6ft stature.

I grip my sword when we hear Katalina’s voice call down to us, “Hello boys!” Sliding down its wings. I was sure Arabelle was delighted to see her, but something felt off. I walk towards Arabelle to create some distance between them. Eric looks at me, understanding in his eyes as his hand tightens on the hilt of his sword. Katalina’s eyes narrow as she glances questioningly at me. 

“Are you alright?” She asks soothingly, but I shield my thoughts from her voice, giving a half-hearted smile in an attempt to distract her attention long enough to figure out what she wanted. Darkness shrouded itself around her, I couldn’t tell how many there were, but demons surrounded her like fog and the presence of so much evil made my stomach churn.

I ask God to deliver a warning to everyone for me and grit my teeth, but before I could even raise my sword, she grins. Time slowed and with the wave of her hand, a black glittery mist fell over me. I stare blankly ahead completely forgetting what it was I was about to do as I crumple to the ground.

The last thought I remember thinking was, ‘Treacherous witch.’

Chapter 14: Emotional damage!

Adriel

I can’t believe everyone disappeared. We were standing here, I think Eric and Lincoln were going to attack my girlfriend, Katalina (which was crazy), but then they all vanished. Was it the rapture? I touched my chest, trying to make sure I was still awake and my eyes widened. It couldn't be the rapture right? I hadn’t even heard a horn! I ran back to the mansion to make sure everyone was still there and faltered. It looked like it had been abandoned for years. What in the world was going on? Where was everyone? What just happened?

“Looks like everything’s gone back in time.” I hear a voice behind me and almost scream. “What in the world, man.” I chastise Joshua, one of the only guys left. I forgot he was out getting groceries when everything went down. “I was just gone for a few minutes…” He mumbles distraught, placing the bags in his hands on the ground. “We’ll get down to the bottom of this…” I reassure him and hear a faint chuckle.

What was that?

I look at my phone and see that there was no reception. Just great. So here I was stuck in the middle of the ocean on an deserted island with no reception. ‘God how can you let this happen?’ I ask, sighing and feel a sorrowful tug in my heart. 

I had to get them back. I may not know why God allowed them to be taken, but he must have left me behind for some reason. “Come on,” I tell Josh and pat him on his shoulder. “The others will need us.” I tell him and grab the bags from the ground, heading inside. 

It felt weird seeing the place so empty. It was surreal roaming the empty halls, but I was grateful to see that it was still protected. There was a heavy presence of angels surrounding the place that I had to wonder what was actually going on. 

“We have to get them back…” Josh says and I pat his shoulder reassuringly, “We will.”

Chapter 15: Once Enchanted

(Arabelle)

I woke up with a start and a splitting migraine. 

I was in bed which was odd because at this time of day I should've been at work already. I squinted at the sunlight that blanketed the windowsill. Where did my curtains go? On the nightstand “Come join me at the mall, 6PM” was scribbled on a sticky note with the name Katalina at the bottom.

I look over at the calendar above my nightstand and smile. Oh, yeah. Today’s my birthday. I had the entire weekend off to do whatever I wanted. My phone dings, and I turn it over reading a recent text from Emelya. ‘Hey girl, don’t drink too much, we’re going shopping in the afternoon, love you!’

Did I drink last night? I know I don’t like shopping.

I lick my palm and exhale heavily bringing it up to my nose and reel. It didn’t smell like alcohol but my morning breath was deadly. I crawl from the bed heading to the bathroom, feeling giddy with excitement. 

I brush my teeth, wash my face and start to take a shower when I glance at myself in the mirror. My hair seemed alright enough to avoid washing it for another day, but when did I bruise my face? I frown at my reflection, reaching in the cabinet below the sink to lay out some of my roomie's leftover makeup for after my shower. I flinch when I grab a handful of sticky notes.

‘Don’t trust the memories you have’

‘I’m sorry I couldn’t come back for you right away’

‘the witch locked everything down’

‘Put your trust in God, Arabelle.’

-Lincoln

I snort a laugh, shaking my head. We just recently started binge watching a series called ‘Runaway In Love’, the latest rom-com show from Arden Miller. We couldn’t help but obsess over it. The story was about two everyday people from two very different backgrounds who teleport into a world of monsters and blood hungry villains who try to take over our world. 

They try finding their way back while thwarting the enemy’s plans to return. Eventually, the two fall in love. We’re at the part now when the main villain of the story, curses the female lead with different memories that separates the two and now he has to fight to win her back. 

I’d get her back for it. She knew I had a fan-girl crush on Lincoln Miller (the male-lead of the show). He was a big-time model for a while, but quit to star in movies and TV series. He was a Christian actor that didn’t mind professing his faith in Hollywood. Of course he had my admiration. 

I slipped on the black satin sweetheart dress that Emelya gave me as a birthday gift, and spritzed Summertime perfume on my wrists. ‘But seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” I remind myself while putting on a pair of matching heels. 

I felt slightly out of place with the get-up but decided it felt nice to dress up once in a while. I step out the door just in time for Emelya’s Bentley to pull up. I knew her parents were filthy rich, but every time her baby blue car pulls into my raggedy driveway, I laugh. 

We blast “Nothin’ on You” by Hollyn on the way to the mall with the windows down. The music blaring in the background as we scream the lyrics and guys in the car beside us laugh and wave. We arrived with plenty of time to get ice cream so we split up. There was a group of men in suits waiting in line behind me.

I was the next in line so I ‘m ready to place my order when high-pitched screaming filled my ears. “Oh my-__ is that Lincoln Miller??” I hear a bunch of females screech around me and wince. I press my hands to my ears when the sounds get even louder and curiosity gets the better of me, so I turn to see what the fuss was about.

A guy stood in line behind me that had the classic bad-boy look. His light brown hair was wavy, full of volume while his golden brown eyes could rival the sunset. His tan skin was a shocking contrast to the neatly lined stubble that graced his jawline. He wore a black suit that was tailored to his medium built physique. 

He looked young, maybe a little older than me? And his entourage of suits formed in a close knit circle that kept the girls from bombarding him with photos. The moment we caught each other's gaze, my eyes widened. Sure enough that was him. 

His eyes appeared brighter than the movies gave justice and twinkled almost tauntingly. I heard a faint voice and turn, startled at the cashier who was still speaking to me. 

“I’m so sorry. I was distracted…” I apologize quickly to the cashier and place my order for a butter pecan waffle cone with chocolate drizzle when her focus on me passes to look over my shoulder. “And for you sir?” 

I turned to Lincoln Miller who was now peering over my shoulder. His Black Phantom cologne dazed my mind as I’m caught completely off guard by his smile as his lips parted to reveal dazzling white teeth, even his nose looked attractive when his long eyelashes graced the flush to his face.

Oh boy. I was staring. I chastise myself, tearing my eyes away and exhale shakily, wiping my palms onto my dress, hoping my heart wouldn’t beat out of my chest.  

“I’ll have what she’s having.” He rumbled before I had the chance to say, “He’s not with me.” and when she questions me for payment I blink emphatically. I fumble through my clutch purse for my card when a hand covers mine. “Not a chance, princess.” He voices and I peer questioningly at him but he was already paying for both of our orders. 

I stammer, “Uh, umm sure thanks.” He was probably late to a meeting or something and just wanted to hurry things along. I slide to the other side of the waiting area with my cone in hand, fighting the urge to ask for his autograph or get a picture with him. I’m sure he had plenty of that from everyone else. I plug my earbuds into my phone, humming to myself when I feel a tap on my shoulder. 

“Sorry to bother you.” A familiar voice announces and my heart jumps as I look up to him smiling, hands casually tucking into his pockets and his bodyguards eye me closely. He must want me to pay him back. I reach in my purse for the change and he chuckles, “That’s not what I’m here for, miss. I just wanted to say you have nice taste in music. I saw you earlier in the car with your friend…” My cheeks flush when he finishes with a chuckle that reaches his eyes. 

I want to somehow shrink inside myself and die, thankful I wasn’t shaking and find a way to respond, “Thanks,” I glanced at the crowd of women finally dwindling away to take pictures from afar and wonder why he was still talking to me until he reached out his hand, “Lincoln.” 

He introduces himself and I exhale a feeble laugh that sounded more like a snort. “Arabelle.” I say giddily, shaking his hand. My ebony hand was engulfed by his; and his gaze held mine. He gestures toward a table for us to sit at and I balk internally thanking God seeing as my friend must have somehow set this up. 

“Th-thanks for the ice cream.” I stammer while pulling my hand away, blushing that women around me commented on how lucky I was. He chuckles warmly. “You seem to be shyer in person.” Lincoln notes and I laugh weakly my heart feeling like it was going to pound out of my chest and I briefly wonder if I’m in fact daydreaming.

“I mean, I’m kind of embarrassed.” I find myself saying honestly and feel my cheeks heat. “What is there to be embarrassed about?” He asks as we sit down. I’m so giddy with excitement. “I’m a fan of yours.” I state obviously and look around for Katalina to thank her.

 “So I’ve heard.” He states chuckling and shakes his head. “So, are you here on business?” I ask tentatively, hoping to see him here on set. “Yeah, actually I’m here for a few scenes then I’m headed to Nuri for vacation.” Lincoln replied nonchalantly. I laugh. “In Sudan? Why choose a city in the middle of the desert?” A sly smirk forms on his face and when he leans in, a fresh minty scent of vanilla makes me exhale dreamily. 

“You mean aside from the fact that there’s an entire chapter dedicated to it in the Bible? Isaiah chapter 18? Haven’t you ever studied the Pharaohs pyramids? It’s said they foretell prophecies for the next hundred years.” He states excitement setting in his eyes. I’m awestruck with a small laugh that escapes my lips and I shake my head, “Afraid not. I don’t have enough time.” “How about now?” He counters and I find myself actually thinking about it. 

A plane ride with one of my favorite actors to see a remarkable piece of history with my own eyes was tempting beyond reason, but I was afraid of being alone with him for too long. I was already gaga…  

I start to turn him down when my friend walks up. “Hey, Arabelle. Did you get me one?” Katalina asks, tossing her thick, raven black hair. The curls bounce perfectly, falling into ringlets over her shoulder. Her bright green eyes shimmering as she winks at me. She twirls a lock of hair, the ruby polish of her nails complementing her skin when she ogles Lincoln, “Of course not.” she murmurs, eyebrow quirks as she tilts her head and nods at him. “Well, are you at least going to introduce me to your boyfriend?” 

I choke on my own spit, getting a laughing ovation from both her and Lincoln. He sticks his hand out to shake hers, “Lincoln Pearce Miller.” Katalina’s eyes twinkle and she sits down beside me, “Girl, he’s even cuter in person. Aren’t I your best friend ever?”

His locked eyes with me and I blush, almost dropping my cone. 

“I’d love to stay.” He says ruggedly, his irises darkening, “But I have a meeting in an hour…” “It was nice to meet you.” I manage finally as he pulls out a business card from the inside pocket of his suit, handing it to me, “Call me.” Lincoln’s gaze stuck with me for the rest of the day.

I couldn’t bring myself to call. 

Sure he was handsome, and he acted super friendly, but he was an actor… Something about the way he looked at me earlier awakened something I never wanted to experience until I found the one God had for me. I sigh. The one God had for me… if there was one.

“Give him a call.” Katalina votes for the tenth time across the room and I blush. I don't know if I should deal with that right now. I went to my email address checking for my grades when I remembered to check the outcome for the tie on the dance competition. 

Apparently I did manage to potentially get in the top ten. I didn’t know how, I mean I didn’t even dance with the right partner. I groan. Remembering the dance competition. The night Adriel told me after the dance was over how he’d been using me to get to Katalina and how he knew I had a crush on him.

I had such a good time, I wish he almost kept it to himself and let me enjoy the moment. It got even more embarrassing when the lights from the stage shone down on us and the room got quiet. So everyone in the room heard. At least Katalina wasn’t paying any attention. If she’d heard we probably would’ve had a falling out or something.  

I read over the list again. Third place was still tied for Ohio state between Adriel and I, and Logan and Emelya.  

I brush my teeth while closing the curtains and dress for bed. There was a tie breaker already set in place for the event if it happened, but they seemed to be taking their dear sweet time. I was anxious to see the results so I kept refreshing the page. Nothing happened so I turned on my noise machine to thunder and pulled out my bible to read, getting ready for bed.

‘Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.’ Phillipians 4:6-7 KJV  

I opened my eyes, but the room was different. I was laying on the cold floor of a glittering black cave, there was an echoing sound of water droplets that caught my attention to the ceiling. The stalactites were dripping something dark and the air smelled horrendous like hunger if there was ever a smell and When I felt heavy breathing on my arm, I tense looking over.

To my left were more people, some lying face down others right side up. They were all unrecognizable, but there was something familiar about them and there was a thought flitting through my mind like I knew what this place was. 

I attempted to sit up, feeling groggy as if I was drugged, I heard a faint voice yelling at me to get up. I tilt my head to look around to my right side to see more and in the corner of my eye I saw a woman dressed in black, holding someone’s limp body in her lap as she wept bitterly. Were they dead? I tried fighting the fog that covered my mind, hearing the same voice from earlier yell at me, “Arabelle, you’re in a trance and if you don’t wake up, you’re going to die! Arabelle, wake up!”

My blinking was slow, but my view of the room didn’t change. I guess I was having one of those lucid dreams again. A weird looking being entered the cave, its limbs were long and langy, almost too long for its body and the skin an alabaster white. It moved like it wasn’t quite used to legs and its head flung around like it was searching avidly for something. I tried to slow my breathing which became labored and frantic when I realized that I couldn’t move anything.

God, help me. 

I pray, trying to close my eyes when the creature hobbles towards me, its bony arms almost translucent to the purple veins that show beneath its skin. I was even more shocked that when it turned to face me, there was no face. Its head tilted as it loomed over me and I held my breath.

I wanted to scream for it to get away from me but I couldn’t speak, to my relief it passed over me. My breath stabilized and I followed it with my eyes as much as I was able. The creature had disappeared, but there were people everywhere. The cave walls seemed to move the longer I stared, a tear rolling down my face as fear wormed its way into my heart.

I gasp, waking up. Everything about my room felt off. I groaned, blinking against the memory of my dream and tried to shrug it off. It seemed like today was going to be another weird morning for me. I mumble a prayer on my way to the kitchen, still feeling uneasy as I open the refrigerator door and grab the jug of iced coffee. “Good morning, sleepyhead. How’d you sleep?” My roomie Katalina asks, “Too much.” I grumble and shuffle back to my room. There was a thought in the back of my head that tried to bring itself to the surface, but couldn’t. 

I rub my temples to ease the oncoming headache. The clock read 7:46 AM and I had a load of school work waiting for me. I take a long shower, making sure to apply a soothing face mask on before throwing my clothes in the washing machine. I refresh the page on my computer that had the competition results, still no change. 

I briefly wondered if it wasn’t a coincidence that I had that dream this morning. Maybe I was becoming complacent in my walk with Christ… I needed time to fix what I had and wholly seek after God…

“Hey, Ara, did you get the phone call yet?” Katalina asks, poking her head into my room and I shake my head, my lips pouting as I plop onto the bed. “Not yet.” I groan. She gives me a weird look, “Really? They’re announcing it on TV.” My eyes widen as I scrambled off the bed, heading to the living room with her, my hands shaking in anticipation as she grabbed the remote and powered it on. 

The blonde news anchor had a cheeky grin on her face and no wonder because on the other side of the screen was Lincoln Miller broadcasting from his dad’s office. “The results for the selection on third place for the contestants in their college dance competition are as follows: From Ohio State University… Adriel McGugh and Arabelle Dower have been chosen.” 

My jaw dropped to the floor as a squeal emitted from somewhere familiar as Katalina and I cheered, hugging each other and dancing in the middle of the living room. “Congratulations baby girl!” She squeals and we hug while I hold my face in both hands and squeeze, “I literally cannot believe this is happening!”“

‘Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.’

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭31‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Chapter 16: Stuck on a feeling

Lincoln

When the mayor’s daughter, Katalina, asked me to meet her friend for her birthday I was skeptical, but she was absolutely stunning. I mean I met so many natural beauties in my line of work that beauty was becoming a bore, but her carefree attitude was amazing.

I remember how she sang with her friend in the car to a worship song, but was so shy meeting with me afterward. It was cute. I kept looking at the video with Arabelle. I didn’t know what it was, but seeing her dance made my heart skip.

I in fact, watched it so many times that my uncle began to wonder and looked over my shoulder. “Wow, she’s good.” He states simply, eyeing over my shoulder at my laptop and I smile, “Yeah.”

“Welp, we’ll see her on set.” He replies almost bored and I shake my head. I rub the scar on my arm mindlessly, thinking about scheduling a bible study with her somehow when I’m suddenly surrounded by darkness.

“No, please! Auntie help!!” I scream. At least I think it was my voice. I sounded so much younger. Then I saw a pair of crimson eyes staring back at me from the shadows as I scramble to get to my feet. The monster in front of me wasn’t even standing upright, but it was bigger than any dog I’d ever seen. 

When it opened its mouth, a chunk of flesh from its sharp gnarled teeth fell with a sickening slosh at my feet. “Get away from me!” I yelled, but the creature didn’t listen. It towered over me. It’s rumbling laughter stuck in my mind as it swiped. 

I came to, breaths heavy and my face beaded with sweat, but the vision was gone. 

What was that thing? My scar tingles ominously as I inspect it, my breathing disheveled as I gasp shakily, a nauseating tremor rocking through me. The scar is from the crash, there are no such things as monsters. I’m okay.

In the corner of my eye something moves on the wall. I hear a deep voice rumble inside my head, “Things are changing for you. I need you to be prepared.” I shake my head, puzzled by what the voice meant and rub my eyes, sure I was imagining things and my eyes are drawn to the clock on the wall, it was frozen again. I guess I’ll have to get a new one. I get up from the couch and head to my room, a headache taunting the outskirts of my mind.

Chapter 17: Treasure Hunt

Arabelle

I’m glancing through the window of the transport vehicle they sent me, nervousness wracking through my system when I realized I was actually going to be going on TV. I grab the ends of my hair and frown.

I didn’t even really have a hair style, because I buzz cut my hair last year and it was just long enough for me to put in a ponytail and I’m pretty sure I had zits on my face. I pout wryly, did I even tweeze my eyebrows? 

I’m frantically grooming myself when I get a text from Katalina, ‘Don’t worry, girlie. We’re going to the spa to get you together before you go on TV. Don't wear green, blue or red.’ A grateful sigh leaves me.

She always knew what to say to make me feel better. “__ idiots.” I hear the driver say and wince at the explicit language. Oh yeah, this was the world. I forgot how much profanity the average person spewed from their mouth.

We get there as the sun is setting and I sigh, lugging my bag into the hotel lobby, smiling at the receptionist who asks me for the information. I show her my package deal online that Miller Enterprise paid for and she giggles, “Must be nice.” 

I didn’t wait long, thankfully and got in my room with enough time to shower, but as I was opening my Bible app someone was calling me, “Hello, am I speaking to Lincoln Miller’s girlfriend?” I hear from the other side of the line and laugh, “No, sorry. You’ve got the wrong number.” I respond quickly. With a guy like that, you definitely had to be careful about even the slightest of rumors even if you thought it might be true it’d be in the tabloids before you could say oops. 

“But he told me, Arabelle Dower, is supposed to have lunch with him on set this evening… isn’t that you?” 

I’m taken aback, pull the phone from my face to take a look at my texts. “What?” I mumble underneath my breath and hear him sigh, “Look, I’d rather not tell him to wait, he's not a very patient guy…” He drones on in a bored tone.

I scramble through my phone to see how to respond when I find an unread text from Lincoln, ‘Hey, just letting you know, you’ll probably be on set with me first thing tonight. You don’t have to dress up if you don’t want to. I’ll actually prefer it if you don't.’  

My eyes widen in disbelief as I groan. How’d I miss this? “Um. Are you there, miss?” He asks and I sigh, “Yes, I’m sorry. When will my ride be here?” I ask and tug at my clothing. “Should be there in five.” He says then hangs up. Rude.

I scramble off the bed, rushing to the bathroom with a pair of tweezers and go to work. I wince and follow up with a warm towel to calm my skin. I quickly rub the conditioner into my hair, and comb it through, pulling it into a ponytail and taking a quick glance at my clothes. 

A dark green t-shirt with a fancy print of the word ‘unladylike’ and a pair of denim jeans would have to do. I slip my feet into black slides, spritz on the lavender and peach perfume, dab some chapstick on my lips before there's a knock on my door. 

I snag my purse and a pair of sunglasses on the way. “Coming!” I shout, brushing the bangs from my face and open the door to Lincoln and a crowd of bodyguards. 

“Hello, gorgeous.” He greets me and I scoff rolling my eyes. “Oh, please. You must have timed it like this on purpose.” I groan tugging at my shirt and point to his outfit.

He looked handsome as usual, but his outfit was hysterical. I couldn’t help but giggle as he looked like a replica of Blade. “What are you wearing?” I ask while we walk towards the lobby and he scoffs, “And you call yourself a fan.” He sneers. When I glower at him, he laughs. “Kidding, just kidding. It’s a new sci-fi flick about a man who finds out he can read other people’s thoughts but only when they’re in danger so he tries to save the world.” “And you’re the main character?” I ask and he chuckles, “Don’t sound so surprised, buttercup.”

I scoff, “Don’t call me that.” I scowl and he turns to face me, his eyes are dancing but his expression remains serious, “I’ll call you that until you actually call me when you say you will.” 

He’s joking, right? “Hey!” I call out when he walks off, entering the lobby and I chase after him.  

One of the ladies spots him and shrieks, immediately pulling out her phone and taking pictures. “Please, Get back.” One of his bodyguards warns me and they form a circle around us. An arm falls over my shoulder and I look up to Lincoln’s eyes blinking down at me. I blush to my core and look away, trying to keep the pace as we’re ushered out the door. 

“Who’s that woman with you!” The gathering crowd shouts, and we were almost stampeded when we exit the building, “Is that your girlfriend?!” “How long have you two been together?!” They shout at us and my eyes widen in appalling, seriously? Why did everyone ask that?

“We’re not–” I start to yell in response and try to cover my face when they start snapping photos of me. “Hey, don’t worry about them.” I hear Lincoln whisper warmly in my ear and when I look into his eyes I feel calm wash over me and he nods to the car, “Come on.” 

One of them opens the door for us and I slide in after him blushing when he grabs my hand, pulling me in quickly. The door shuts behind me and the crowd disperses when the car lurches forward.

I yelp as my forehead smacks into the seat in front of me, “Ouch.” I rub the sore spot on my head and buckle up. Lincoln laughs, the melodious sound of his voice carrying through my mind and I glare at him. He didn’t have the right to be so gorgeous. I noticed I was still holding his hand; pull my hand back and mumble a ‘sorry’.

“Quite alright, buttercup.” He notes, chuckling, but he leans forward, eyebrows furrowing as he reaches for my hair and I flinch. He frowns, eyes softening as he raises an eyebrow, “You have some fuzz in your hair.” He explains showing me his open palms. I want to die of embarrassment as I pull out my phone and check my reflection to make sure there weren’t any more.

“This should be fun.” The driver notes, Lincoln pointedly glares at him and his eyes shift to focus on the road, muttering, “Sheesh, dude.” And turns on the radio to an old-timey station. 

Lincoln pulls his phone out and is avidly texting someone when my phone begins lighting up with notifications. ‘Hey girl, how’s stardom?’ ‘Are you in NY yet?’ ‘Is Lincoln hotter in person?’ all text from my friends and I scowl, turning my phone screen away from my face. Lincoln chuckles, “Getting quite popular.” He notes and I laugh dryly still trying to lower my brightness to stop it from blinding me. 

I open my Bible app to my last spot. Proverbs 10:2-3 ‘Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death. The Lord will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: But he casteth away the substance of the wicked.’

Every day it felt like I was being sucked into the twilight zone. God allowed me to be here so I should find out why. I needed to seek God with every fiber of my soul… The clothing I wore, the movies I watched, everything was vanity in God’s plan for my life. 

“Sorry,” Lincoln says out of the blue and when I look at him, he’s leaning forward, golden eyes peering over me, “Huh?” I ask and my mouth wobbles shut. “How would you like me to respond?” I can’t help but stare since he was sitting so close. “What was the question?” I ask quietly, feeling as if my heart was attempting to climb into my throat. 

He just smiles and shakes his head, his eyebrow quicking when he looks at me. He places his hand under his chin and eyes me curiously, “How are you feeling?” He asks cautiously and I bite my lip. “To be honest… I’m conflicted…” I sigh, my face falling in realization of the choices I’d have to make. “You’re not sure whether or not you should be on the show…” He finishes for me and then laughs gently, “Yeah, I figured.”

I blush, inwardly groaning at myself and nod, “I could see it as an opportunity to reach millions for Christ, I mean it is a Christian film…” I say and he hums in agreement, “But there’s a chance you’ll get distracted with the world and lose sight of your calling.” I exhale heavily, placing my head in my hands.

“I know I’ll carry out God’s will for me if He asks me to leave, but what do I do if I stay? If I start to go after what I want.. The heart is deceitful…” I voice. I cringe at the fact that I sounded whiny, but I was perplexed. If this was a test, I wasn’t sure how to pass it.

“You know, I had the same problem when I got into modeling. My uncle would ask me to join him and at first I thought nothing of it. When I got rich, I noticed my desires changing. I no longer wanted to fellowship or read the Bible and soon after, I began hanging around the wrong crowd. Well eventually, God got ahold of me.” Lincoln looks at me, a glint in his eyes that stirs my heart. “God will call you to where you’re needed.” 

He was right. Regardless of what I felt, God would steer me in the right. 

I looked out the window for a bit, curious as to why the tunnel we were going under looked an awful lot like the cave wall that was in my dream when Lincoln interrupts my train of thought, “I saw the clip of you dancing with that guy Adriel, he was your dance partner right?” He asks and I purse my lips, “Umm… yes…” I answer cautiously, hoping he’d read into my lack of enthusiasm and change the subject.

I wasn’t quite ready to jump into my emotions about him just yet. “My uncle said it was so beautiful that you actually had love in your eyes.” 

“... yeah…” I respond weakly, my heart clenching as my stomach hollows and I fidget with my nails. “Well, the good news is you’ll get to see him again, but he seemed a bit stiff, so you’ll be dancing with someone else.”

A smile wobbles on my face, “Thanks, I guess.” It was good that I wouldn’t be dancing with him again, but the thought of still working with him made me uneasy. 

“You don’t sound too happy about that and I get it; whatever you guys got going on is beautiful, but we have to split you up.” Lincoln states resting his arm on the seat in front of him and I find myself laughing despite myself.

“No, no it’s nothing like that. We’re not together…” I correct awkwardly and cringe when the car falls into an awkward silence as it clicks for him. “Oh. I see…” 

It was weird enough talking to my childhood crush about the guy that rejected me, but what made it worse was the need to look over my shoulder.

I sigh, silently whispering a prayer of protection. My thoughts were all over the place nowadays, I couldn’t help but feel like trouble was coming. When I open my eyes, I see that we’re arriving at the Pearce Media Studio and gape.

Chapter 18: Surely, I’m a potato…

Lincoln

“Will you join me for dinner?” I query hesitantly and the look on Arabelle’s face was priceless. I tried not to get too close to her, but the car was moving quite fast, it couldn’t be helped, it jostled me closer. 

“Is that a great idea? I mean, the media…?” She asks softly. She didn’t say no. “Will you let me know when you’re ready?” I ask gently, not realizing that I was holding my breath or that we’d already parked when the driver clears his throat, “Are you guys going to get out of my car?” 

We apologized, and in awkward silence, stepped out of the car onto the bustling street.

My manager makes a fuss about us being late and ushers Arabelle into the make-up room before I can stop her. “I want her natural look.” I protest as the door gets shut in my face. I sigh, heading to my own make-up room for them to touch-up my hair and suit.

The make-up artist looks at me and mutters something in Spanish, shaking her head, “Boy, you need a woman.” She hisses at me while combing my hair and I exhale heavily, wincing as she pulls through a knot, “There’s so much more for me to do...” She eyes me skeptically and lint rolls my outfit carefully, “Things will happen when they need to.” 

When she said it, I felt a zap of static and looked up to a flash of light behind her. The light bulb needed fixing I guess, but I could swear for a second I saw several pairs of translucent wings.

We make it to the broadcasting stage, Arabelle apologizing profusely as she trips over the wires. “So, are you guys going by the script?” My manager asks me, flipping through my notes but I shake my head, giving a hand to Arabelle who smiles thankfully at me, “Not this time.” 

Arabelle sits in the fold up chair beside me, the smell of lavender and peaches passing my nose and I’m grateful that all the make-up artist did was curl her hair.

“Can you guys scoot in closer?” The interviewer asks and I look at her to make sure she is comfortable with it. She smiles weakly, her face flushing red as my hand accidentally brushes against hers when I pull my chair closer. “Great, in three…” the lady announces and points to the cameraman. It was almost as if the two of us were alone when the lights dimmed and I felt my shoulders slack in relaxation.

“So, Lincoln, it’s good to see you again. It's been a while since you’ve started a new film. How are things going?” Sarah announces in her TV voice and I turn to face her, making sure to briefly glance at the camera. “Good to see you as well. Things are going great, just here with one of my new supporting cast members from the show, Runaway in Love…”

Arabelle was fidgeting with her ring and I could almost feel her anxiety wash over me. I cover my hand with hers in comfort, but when she looks up at me in thanks I almost choke, caught off guard by her eyes.

“Are you excited about your role in this series?” Sarah asks her to my rescue and her face brightens, eyes widening in excitement, “This is like a dream come true!” She answers bubbling and I can’t help the smile that crosses my face. I move to cover it by lifting my hand, rubbing my knuckles against my lip. 

Sarah must have caught it because she peers knowingly at me, “So, Lincoln, do you have a love interest for Valentine’s Day this weekend?” She asks pointedly and I steel myself, giving her a concealed smirk, “Just continuing the search.”  

She wags her eyebrows at the camera and winks while fanning her face and I fight not to gag. “And you, Miss Arabelle?” The interview drags on, she covers all bases of romance, tragedy, comedy, and drama.

I hold in my sigh of annoyance, plastering a smile onto my face. At least I didn’t have to do this alone. It was honestly shocking how well Arabelle handled the limelight, remarkably well from what I conceived was her first time. 

“We’ll see you guys next time on Kiljay Network.” Sarah finishes with a bright smile and as soon as the camera shuts off, her expression melts. “__ I’m so tired of...” She complains rubbing her cheeks to ease the sore muscles in her face and I sigh through my gritted teeth. I wish she wouldn’t cuss.

I manage to catch Arabelle at the refreshment table with her back turned and tap her on the shoulder, “The blueberry muffins are to die for…” I suggest and when she turns to look at me, her lips pull into an impish grin, muffin already in hand. 

We laugh together and a comfortable warmth fills my heart, “Looks like we already have something in common.” I note then cringe inwardly at my attempt. I hear a staged cough on the other side of the room and grimace.

“Want to split an omelet?” She offers timidly, picking the wrapper off her muffin and I try to ignore it when my heart flutters. “Sounds good.” We sit at a nearby table, the background crew laughing when they pass. “You’ve got quite a lot of fans.” she notes when one of them waves flirtatiously and I frown. “Eh, definitely not my type.” 

I gaze into her eyes, tapping the table with my phone, “I’ve got my eye on someone,” I whisper and her dark eyes squint questioningly before she looks away. I shake my head. For someone so bold from afar she was so shy in person. 

We chatted for a while until the lights were turned on and the cleaning crew arrived, my face fell. It’d been a while since I’ve talked with a nice Godly woman and I was definitely having a great time talking to her, about almost anything.

I look at my phone and frown. “I’ve got to go…” I groan, standing up and her lips part to speak while eyes me mischievously, “You know what they say…” She starts and when I tilt my head, her smile deepens, “A potato a day keeps the girls at bay.” she finishes with a cute laugh and I chuckle that almost resulted in a snort. 

When I stepped outside, there were paparazzi already there taking pictures and asking how it went. I simply sigh and say no comment, getting into the car.

The media was bad after my parent’s accident, but after I disappeared it got even worse. They were like incessant hound dogs obsessed with finding me, and I always had to look over my shoulder. I was tempted to fake my death, but that would only put bad press on my uncle if I were to be found out.  

I did the only thing I could do, which was try to make them less interested. Homosexuality being ‘awesome’ was the trend so if I, the well-known treasure boy of Hollywood, were to come out as a Christian? They’d hate me. Apparently that wasn’t so. They called me a rare gem, and wanted to keep me safe. I sigh exasperatedly. Tapping my foot when the car finally reaches my house. 

What was I going to do when persecution came? They already knew where I lived, if there was a chance of me getting away by some miracle, my face was well known. I’d be sold out in a heartbeat. I step out of the car, an uneasy feeling settling over me and when I glance over my shoulder to reassure myself, I actually see someone.

There was a tall, lanky, asian man standing in the bushes, with a pair of sunglasses in his hand with a ‘got Jesus?’ hat on. My eyebrow raises and I smile at him awkwardly, not even hiding the fact that he creeped me out by quick-walking to my door. “Hey, Lincoln!” He shouted, unfortunately catching my eye and I fumble with the keys to get the door open. “It’s me, Joshua! We’ve been looking all over for you man!”

I manage to get the door open in a hurry, huffing and trying to bring my heartrate down when I manage to close the door in time to shut him out, “Come on, man don’t be like that. Is it because I brought up the engagement ceremony?” He yells from outside the door and I exhale shakily pulling out my phone. I was definitely going to fire security after this. 

How a deranged fan of mine managed to get behind the two gated entrances to this place and my bodyguards, I had no idea. But he was insistent enough to get to me. Engagement ceremony? Just who was that guy?

Chapter 19: Antics

Adriel

I can’t believe this was happening. I started to throw my phone across the room in frustration, but stopped myself. I didn’t know how to get them back. There had to be some reason I was left behind. What was I supposed to do? Call the police?

‘Yeah my friends disappeared right in front of me a few days ago, but they don't seem to remember me now. Can you help me take them back to this island?’ They’d lock me up in the looney bin and I couldn’t blame them. 

I sigh, God was probably punishing me for being such a terrible Christian. I led Arabelle on. And instead of asking her for forgiveness, I ended up making things worse. I ignored all the warning signs that I wasn’t in a Godly relationship because it felt good to be wanted.

Now my friends are gone. I try to call Arabelle again and sigh as it goes straight to voicemail. ‘Now what do I do?’ I’m pretty sure she wouldn’t answer me again and now Lincoln thinks Joshua’s a creepy stalker. 

I groan, rubbing my temples, what would Eric do? Eh, he’d probably be like, “Arabelle, your life is in danger! You must leave now or perish!” Something like that; she’d listen to him in a heartbeat and I couldn’t even get a hold of him. 

Chapter 20: Panicked

Eric

It felt like I’d been yelling for hours now. The fog that fell over the group seemed to shroud their eyes and ears. Adriel didn’t follow like the rest, but it didn’t seem like he could see me either. Typical. I chuckle at his ignorance, but when he turns around he looks straight through me and sighs. 

I followed the group, wondering why none of them saw or heard me. 

I saw the road leading into a cave in the middle of the forest. I frown, ‘Lord, keep them safe.’ I pray and follow Arabelle inside. She’d mumble every once in a while and make weird movements with her arms, like the rest. They seemed to be in some weird mass hallucination. At some point she looked at me when I shook her and then went back to looking dazed.

“They’re not going to see you.” A voice says after I’d given up and I look over to someone slumped on the wall of the cave. He had bags under his eyes and he was focused on a Vietnamese girl who was muttering to herself and combing her hands through her hair fervently while she gazed almost lifelessly up ahead.

“I’ve been doing all I can to get them back.” He mumbles and then laughs, sadness choking his voice. “What’s wrong with them?” I ask after a while and he shakes his head, a shaky finger pointing to the empty air, “Don’t you see them? The wisps?”

My eyebrow was raised and I started to ask if he was going insane then I saw them.

Glowing fluorescent orbs floated around them. Some were covered in them, making them appear like a human glow stick. I covered my face forlornly as I suddenly understood.

They were being baited. Drawn out by their fleshly desires. Lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and the pride of life. They each got a taste and sooner or later, they couldn’t resist indulging and bit by bit they were being lured away to their deaths.

I groan, looking at the ceiling of the cave and yell frustratedly. 

“It won't do you any good.” The guy says and laughs morbidly, grabbing a flask that he had perched beside him and began taking a swig. “Don’t be delusional, God protects his people.” I chastise him and the smell of strong coffee wafting past my nose. Must be why he had circles under his eyes. He’d been trying to stay awake.

“Who are you anyway?” I ask, gritting my teeth when I see Lincoln getting closer to Arabelle and he snorts, “Nobody you want to know.” 

We sat in uncomfortable silence for a while until I felt a nagging tug in my chest. “I’m going to try one more time.” I tell him in a huff as I stand again, grunting at the ache in my shoulder. It seems it hasn't healed properly yet. 

I march up to Arabelle, placing a shaking hand on her forehead and sighing. “God, I don’t know how to stop this, but You are Lord over all, please. Help her to see…” My voice cracks, I don’t know where the emotion came from, but I feel a tear sliding down my face. Maybe it was frustration. I was finally able to open up to her… I couldn’t lose her yet.

The guy that was slumped against the wall stirs. He looks over at me, something like pity on his face, but he huffs and staggers as he stands. He shuffled, grumbling about something as he approached, his whispered footsteps echoing eerily on the damp walls of the cave.

He sniffles when he reaches me, wiping his nose on his ragged sleeve, the tear on his cheek glistening as it falls and he places his hand on my shoulder. “In Jesus name…”

As he prays with me, I feel new strength flow through me. And at that moment, I wasn’t alone.

Chapter 21: Is it raining?

Arabelle

When he left the room felt empty. I sigh, looking back at the stage and remember when he covered his hand with mine. It felt nice. Too nice. I frown, I could not have a crush on him again. We work together now. I get up to walk out the door and feel anxiety wash over me for a split second. ‘Lord, please show me whatever it is that I need to see.’ I pray inwardly and sigh. I couldn’t help but feel like I was losing sight of where I was meant to be. All my dreams were coming true and the more I prayed the more I heard God’s muffled voice telling me something… something important.

I went to my hotel, still feeling out of sorts when I finally went to sleep.

My dream:

“Wake up! Arabelle! You’re dreaming!” I hear Eric’s voice yell frantically at me and flinch when I feel his hand on my shoulder. “Arabelle, you’re going to die!” I suddenly see his sea green eyes boring into mine and gasp.

I groan when I wake up, why do I have to have weird dreams like that? 

It was kind of weird when Eric fell off the grid. He hadn’t been to class, he hadn’t been at work, and I was starting to get worried. I mean sure, he had his days when he’d disappear out of the blue, but it was never like this…

What time was it? My eyes flew to the clock on the dresser of my hotel and I almost cursed, fumbling out of bed and grabbing my phone from the dresser, just barely managing to catch Katalina’s call. “Hey, girl, are you ready?” I sigh in frustration, quickly explaining that I’d just woke up. “It’s alright, babycakes, we’ll wait as long as you need.” She reassures with a soft laugh; I exhale gratefully, hanging up. 

Emelya and Katalina were waiting in the parking lot across the street and my heart skipped with assurity. I had such great friends. I wipe a grateful tear from my face and skip to the car with a wide smile. “Hey girls!” I greet them openly and they smile back, “Hey, girl, hey!” 

While in the Spa we got weird stares from the workers until I took off my sunglasses and hat. “You’re here to get fixed up?” 

My entire body felt sore from the waxing so they steered me towards the jacuzzi, “The company’s paying for this right?” I ask after a while and the lady simply smiles at me. “Cuz I don't think my minimum wage coffee shop job can pay for this…” I state and she laughs, “Management called us earlier to confirm that the payments were going towards your membership plan.” 

Ah, good.

I relax into the tub, sighing at the bubbles that glided against my skin. 

“I hope she enjoys it while it lasts.” I hear and frown. “Yeah, there’s no way they’re going to end up together.” I hear another voice snicker walking past me and my shoulders fall as I turn my head. I know they were only saying what everyone was thinking, but still I hadn’t asked for their opinion on my life. 

“Can you believe he’s actually holding her hand during the interview?” I sit straight up, almost hitting my head on the bar. “I’m pretty sure he’s just doing it for more publicity.” Another girl says and I scramble for my phone. It was already on?

“Just continuing the search.” I hear his voice respond and my heart thuds in my chest.

I hurried and dried off making sure to put on my sunglasses and hat when I dressed and to my horror, a high school picture of me was on the news when I passed by the TV. 

I groan. At least I had good pictures taken. 

“Girl, you were hot!” A lady commends me and I groan, “Can you please just finish my facial so I can leave?” I felt as if I was being held hostage. My phone started blowing up with notifications and I was hounded by other customers in the Salon asking me ‘How long have you guys known each other/ what’s he like in person?’ 

Thankfully, my friends were with me and managed to push them back, “Hey! Personal space!” Emelya yells and they whine, “Aww.” But thankfully they heed to her request while I dry off my own face. The lady seemed too distracted. 

I sigh and grab my phone calling Lincoln, “Hey.” He says cheerily after a few rings and I groan. “Having a bad day?” He asks and I flinch when someone squeals, “Ahh! They’re on the phone, someone turned the TV down.” I pull the phone from my face to glare at the woman. Her eyes widen as she shrinks back, her smile falling, “Nevermind, I’m sorry.”

I exhale heavily, forgetting I had a face mask on, and rub my forehead, smearing it sideways, “What am I supposed to do?” I ask simply and he chuckles, “I tried to warn you.”

I sigh, “No, it’s not your fault. I get it.” The lady finally finishes my facial mumbling about something not being fair as we just leave without getting my makeup or nails done and get into my friends’ car.

“Well, buttercup, you have a few options. You can: hold your head high, ignoring the media and continue the sets with that beautiful grace I know you for. Two, you can shrink back from the spotlight altogether and quit, or you can choose to add fuel to the fire and go on a date with me this afternoon.” 

My lips curl and I find myself laughing. “I thought you weren’t going to call me that anymore.” I’m briefly reminded about bantering with Eric, frowning. “Is that a yes?” “If I go to dinner with you, it’s not a date.” I responded suddenly. The last thing I needed was to get my hopes up about this guy. He was a celebrity. Everything he says should be taken with a grain of salt. They were flirtatious by default.

“If you’ll go with me, that’s what I’ll want it to be.” Lincoln replies and I hold in a breath, “We can discuss that later.” I end up whispering and hanging up. 

They drop me off at the hotel and I rush to my room and try to put my hair in a bun. It must’ve rained last night because as soon as I stepped outside my hair poofed. I sigh, I guess I was going to sport an afro today.

I picked through my hair making sure it had plenty of volume. I pulled out a burgundy turtleneck sweater dress that thankfully went to my mid-calf and matched it with a pair of velvet black stiletto heels. I topped it off with small gold hooped earrings and a thin gold necklace. 

My phone began to ring, “Yeah? I’m almost ready…” I say and hear silence on the other line, “Arabelle?” A familiar voice asks and I cringe. “Adriel? Why are you calling me?” I pulled my phone from my face, a scowl as I glanced at the caller ID. Sure enough it was him.

“Where are you guys?” He asks and I snort annoyed, “What are you talking about? We’re at the hotel in NY trying to get ready for the show…” I’m unsure of what to say when he sighs, “Look I know this is going to sound crazy, but you guys have been missing for days… I’m sorry for what I did to you, but I need you to trust me…” He finishes and I hang up.

He’s got to be delusional. Missing for days? If he really wanted to apologize he should’ve done so without trying to make a joke in the process.

I shake my head, the nerve of this guy. I tried to finish getting ready, frustration making my hands shake so I decided against make-up and dab chapstick on my lips. “What’d he want?” Katalina asks when I facetime her to get her opinion on my outfit. I told her about Adriel of course. Something was wrong with him for playing games like that. I exhale a laugh, “He asked where we were… Did you guys have a fight or something?” Her eyebrow rises and she frowns, shaking her head, “No… did he say anything else?” 

I scoff, grabbing my bag, “He said we’ve been missing for days.

I was at a restaurant with Lincoln, one that he had reserved for the evening. As in, he reserved the entire restaurant for the evening. It was kind of creepy walking into a mostly empty restaurant except for the staff, especially when I’m alone with a guy that I’m starting to like. 

All morning I had a nagging thought in the back of my mind telling me I wasn’t awake, was God talking spiritually? I read a few verses from a book in the Bible I usually never read, Song of Solomon and saw Chapter 8 verse 4 which read, “I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, That ye stir not up, nor awake my love, Until he please.”

I was troubled by it. 

What I felt toward Lincoln was already more than I wanted to admit. He was cute and beyond that he was a strong Christian man. He saw something he wanted and went after it. If it just so happens to be my heart, I fear I’ll be a danger to myself. My mind keeps falling into unknown territory and I need to guard my heart…

He glances over at me from across the table, a worried smile crossing his face as I fidget with the napkin set before me. 

“So, I wanted to talk to you about something…” He begins and I sigh and nod. My lips pull into the corners of my mouth as I feel my smile fall. “Look I’m not sure if I can hang out with you like this…” I start to say while at the same time he says, “I would like to try a relationship with you…” 

I almost swallow my tongue… what? 

Lincoln sits up, eyes serious and his expression etched with worry and a wobbly smile crosses my face, “I’m sorry?” I ask and he tilts his head, “What did you say? I shake my head, my chest feeling suddenly heavy and my stomach knots. Something was certainly wrong, I could feel it.

I pray internally and feel as if someone’s eyes were boring into the back of my neck. I had a small voice in my head weakly whisper for me not to look, but I no longer had control. I looked over to the tables across from us and the woman seated there was rocking back and forth, her olive skinned hands were fumbling with a bowl that was filled halfway with water and inside was a giant pale white egg.

I briefly heard Lincoln calling to me but it was like the background noise of my thoughts as the woman’s nails raked against the lining of the ceramic bowl.

Her eyes were crazed and wide with determination as she gently poured more water onto the egg. ‘The egg will turn to gold’ I hear her whisper to herself in a hushed tone and feel an eerie presence of evil linger over my shoulders. 

‘…I know what people say about me…’ I think I heard Lincoln say, but it was no longer my concern. Something dark was at play, and now I could feel it. I could hear it… The woman looks at me, her smile widening with a mad look that deepens. ‘And she will fall.’ I hear from behind me and scoot my chair back.

The walls of the restaurant started to change. I felt like I was lucid dreaming again, only this time I was wide awake. ‘Wouldn’t it be nice if the egg had gold designs?’ I heard the voice say, but this time it was clearer. I looked at the woman who held the bowl, and a pale creature was standing behind her, whispering into her ear. The being was gaunt and bony, its skin almost translucent the purple veins bulged underneath. My eyes widened as I remembered the creature from my dream.

I go to swallow the lump rising in my throat. My nails digging into Lincoln’s arm as I grasp it panicked, “We need to leave!” I say harshly, desperation cracking my voice as I feel the creature’s breath on me. ‘Dont!” It hisses before I close my eyes and I see that it has no face. Its head was smoothed over and when it lunged at me I cried, “Lord, help!”

The creature disappeared in a puff of smoke and I clasped my hands over my mouth, my eyes almost bugging out of my head as the world completely changed. There were people everywhere, and creatures like the one I’d seen hunched over as they whispered into the ears of their victims. Some were falling into a trench like lifeless bodies as they got to the end of the line and the creatures stood over them, long flickered tongues scourging over their bodies as they bleed them dry.

My heart felt like it would burst from dread. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. 

Where was I? My hands began to shake and my mouth wobbled shut as a scream curled in my throat. I feel a hand land on my shoulder and flinch. I form a fist and swing, but stop it in time to see Eric’s worried expression looking down on me. A disheveled exhale leaves my lips and I cry, grateful tears fall down my face as I embrace him.

Eric stiffens, a weak smile on his face when I glance at him, “You’re alive!” “Good to see you too, buttercup.” I scowl at the nickname and pull back from him, “What are you doing here? Where are we?” I ask and look at Lincoln who was staring dazed into the pit ahead. There was horror in his eyes so he must be seeing something and I couldn’t place what exactly because he kept reaching forward and mumbling something.

“You were in a trance so I tried to get you back…” Eric explains softly, his voice was shaky and he had bags under his eyes. I noticed that he was paler than usual and there was a guy beside him that I almost mistook for a shadow. He was thinner and frail, his dirty blonde hair was stringy and looked matted to his head that dripped beads of sweat. 

“Oh. This is…” Eric starts to say and smiles politely as if he’d already forgotten his name and the dude clears his throat. The sound was raspy and made me wince as if my own throat were scratchy, “There are more important matters at hand.” He answers, weary eyes glaring hauntingly at me. 

“You’re right…” I whisper, biting the insides of my cheek as I glance at Lincoln in concern. ‘Lord, please help us…’ I start my prayer and falter because of the ache in my chest. ‘It’s helpless…’ I hear a voice whisper and rebuke it. Nothing is impossible with God. I will not let my friends fall because of my unbelief.

“Lord God Almighty! Show your wondrous power today! Help your people to see!” I yell in desperation, my voice cloaked with tears and I grab Lincoln’s face, turning it to look at me. 

“Do you see me, Lincoln?” I asked slowly and his eyes were dazed as they bore into mine, “I see you…” He whispers, his smile waning in expectation of my answer. “Do you understand what’s happening?” I ask gently, my voice and my heart starting to break when I realize that none of it was real. He shakes his head looking intently into my face, “None of it is real.”

I sigh heavily when he frowns, eyes questioning as he looks at me confused and I clarify, “You’re dreaming, my love.” I whispered the last bit. The part that hurt the most… all of what I saw was a lie. It was whispered into my ear. He mumbles about how everything was going to be okay and I grab him by the shoulders. “You. Need. To. WAKE UP!” I yell more avidly, shaking him. 

For a moment he stands there blinking and then slowly his eyes start to widen and his lips twitch, jaw clenching as he looks at me. 

I lour at myself, I can’t believe I had had romantic thoughts about him. I smile apologetically and let go of his arm, sadness tearing at my heart. We had bigger things to deal with. “What do we do?” I ask him gently as his eyes darken, and small flecks of light appear on the collar of his shirt that slowly form a solid suit of armor. His jaw tightens and he eyes me carefully, “We go to war.” 

Several hours later, we made it out of the woods covered in blood and grime, but we were alive. The group behind me was still grumbling about the events. I couldn’t believe that even after Lincoln had saved them from themselves they were calling for him to step down.

Their reason being that we got sucked in in the first place. Instead of placing the blame on their own desires. I didn’t know him very well, I knew he wouldn’t hurt anyone on purpose. Why blame the leader for something that you did all on your own?

They said everyone was allowed to join the assigning a new leader. It was a vie for power. They’d already had a taste of whatever their heart desires and now they were gunning for whatever they could get their hands on without feeling guilty for it. 

I mean I sort of get that they were upset it happened on his watch and all that, but like… 

“Arabelle?” I hear Lincoln ask and cringe, “Huh?” 

His hand reaches up, pushing the hair back, away from his face then finally he looks at me. His expression was serious and I gulped, reaching down and fiddling with my thumbs. “Yes?” I squeak, searching his eyes for any sign of peace when he sighs heavily, “We need to talk.”

Chapter 22: Relief?

Lincoln

I didn’t even know what to say in my defense. I fell, just like the rest of them. Before I could even have the chance to lead the way I had wanted to, too. They were right. As a leader I should have been more prepared. I didn’t have what it took…

I run my hand through my hair and look at Arabelle… What was I going to do about her? 

I… I felt something for her. My memories might be fake but there was something in her eyes when she looked at me. Genuine. ‘You’re dreaming, my love…’ I heard it clear as day and my heart didn’t know what to do with the information, “We need to talk.” I told her and sighed. 

I had no idea what I was even going to say to her. 

  I walked to the main house, feeling a weight on my heart like someone had just dropped a nuclear bomb and even the air felt harder to breathe in. “Look, man…” I hear Xavier say when he runs up to me and I smile at him, “I’m on your side, you know that…” 

We enter the halls which brighten at our presence, the gloomy air and vines dissipating as we gather in the business hall. Each of us takes a seat, the assigned judges taking their place on the bench before me as I stand accused. 

Someone in the back clears their throat as the people gathering in the doorway clamors to fit, each waiting to hear the result. Silence fell and it quieted enough my heartbeat became deafening to my ears.

The judge in the middle opens his mouth to speak, but before a word even comes out of his mouth, a thundering sound booms from above. “Don’t say a word of it. What’s done is done.” A lump forms in my throat as surely God is speaking on my behalf. 

There were whispered voices of, ‘Who was speaking,’ Murmured briefly through the crowd before the voice spoke again, “Step forward, Lincoln Miller.” 

The crowd murmurs again as I step forward and my heart begins to pound, “‘There Is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.’ This we know from scripture.” (Romans 8:1 KJV)

There's a collective gasp of awe as I look up to a small mist of light that falls around me, seeming to sink onto my shoulders. It felt like the favor of God. “I see what you’ve done while you were under the influence of temptation. You have sought after God in all your ways and have acknowledged Him as Lord over your life. You will lead and you have the choice on when or if you want to marry.”

 The judge in the middle who was still open mouthed up until this point, closes his mouth and clears his throat, “Well said, Your majesty.” I looked around the room as people now looked at me with understanding, their former anger long gone and an almost awkward silence as the room empties. 

‘Thank you, Lord.’ I pray internally and feel warmth cover me while there’s a quick tug on my heart, ‘Continue to do my will, son.’ 

‘The LORD shall judge the people: Judge me, O LORD, According to my righteousness, and according to mine integrity that is in me. Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just: For the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins. My defense is of God, Which saveth the upright in heart.’

Psalms 7:8-10

Chapter 23: Dazed

Arabelle

I heard the thundering voice from above and stared in awe, happy as Lincoln’s name was cleared. A sigh of relief leaves me. Good, I couldn’t imagine something that wasn’t even his fault stripping him of what he deserved. 

“And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭26‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I tried to convince myself that I was just happy for the sake of things working out, but…What was that about marriage? I blush, walk to my room and sigh when a feeling of peace falls over me.

 I plop on the bed and notice my phone still lying on the dresser the way I’d left it. There was the message from Katalina still on the screen. I frown. What was I going to do about her?

I’d always known she was into witchcraft and needed God, but I never would’ve thought she would hurt me the way she did. I mean, sin is sin, but I hoped our friendship would’ve meant more to her… maybe she was just in too deep…

I sigh again, this time tears filling my vision and I clear my throat. No. Just because she abandoned me does not mean I wouldn’t continue to fight for her.

I sent a text to Eric, ‘We need to get Katalina. She was stuck in the cave too.’ I put my phone on charge and my eyebrow quirks right as I see a group text pop up.

‘Calling everyone to join us in the ballroom tomorrow night at 4pm for the celebration of our leader, Lincoln Miller. Please make sure to dress modestly and have fun, let God guide your thoughts, have a blessed time!’

I feel the heat in my face and I shake my head. What I saw was all a part of my own fantasy. I wasn't going to project my feelings onto him because I was lonely. 

I needed to pray.

I ran the shower long enough to feel like my skin was going to wither and fall off and pull my hair into a bun. The ‘excursions’ I went on with Lincoln flash through my head, and I sigh. In the time we spent being cursed I had developed feelings for him.

 I dress in my pajamas and slip into a pair of blue fluffy slippers when I hear a knock on the door. “Arabelle?” I hear a familiar voice and my heart thuds, no.

“Arabelle? It’s Adriel, can we talk?” 

I sigh, shutting my eyes and chew the inside of my cheek. I wanted to pretend I didn’t hear him, but after all, I did ask God to help me to forgive him. I get up from the bed, shuffling to the door, my hand resting hesitant on the doorknob for a beat before I twist and open the door.

He held a variation of pale looking flowers in a poofed out bouquet, stationed behind his back. My shoulders slump while my expression softens, a light smile poking at the edge of my lips as I eye him cautiously.

“I asked one of the organizers here for an apology bouquet and this is what she gave me…” He starts, and smiles weakly, presenting me with the bundle, a grim expression coats my face.

“I know I can’t take back what I did to you and I know what I did was terrible. I’m so sorry. I can only hope that you can forgive me…” He finishes a forlorn look crossing his face as the sorrow deepens his voice.

At that moment, I did, but I had to ask for his forgiveness in return, “Thank you.” I say after gathering some courage and accept his flowers with a shaky hand, “I hope you’ll forgive me as well…” I started to say and push myself to finish before I lost my nerve, “I’d made an idol of you and then hated you afterward. Especially when we needed to give each other the benefit of doubt.”

We laughed at the awkwardness as our consciences cleared, but the sore spot in my heart lightened. We were going to have our differences, but at least tonight we had reconciled. I heard the sound of a shoe squeak from across the hall. I turned to see what the sound was, but no one was there. Huh, that was weird. 

I shrug and wave him goodbye, shutting the door behind me. Tonight was well spent. 

I placed the flowers on my dresser with a melancholy smile on my face as I opened my Bible. I was glad to be able to read again and relax with God. After the commotion of the day… of the week... I’d gone through so much. I hadn’t realized how much strain was on my body until I slowed down.

I exhale gratefully when I look at the verse before me.

‘I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; that the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.’ Philemon 1:4-6 

My mind kept drifting back to my time in the cave… I was going after Katalina. I am going to get her back. I wasn’t sure how, but I just can’t leave her behind.

I woke up the next morning, determination fueling my body as I sprung from the bed. I grabbed water bottles from the mini fridge in my room, granola bars, a flashlight and rope from the supply closet in the hallway and trudged towards the guy’s dorm, texting Eric again.

He’d left me on read and was skittish after the hug from yesterday. I couldn’t figure out what his deal was. “Chick alert!” Someone yells and the sound of doors being slammed shut fills my ears and I wince. 

“Eric Wayne Davenport!” I call out and someone whistles, “ooh someone’s in trouble!” And another voice, “Yo, man! What’d you do?” I start to knock on each door going room to room searching for him when I hear the creaking sound of a door I had just knocked on.

A gruff voice sighs, “Yes, buttercup? What do you want?” I hear Eric’s rough tone answer back and frown when I notice that his eyes were puffy and his hair was a disheveled mess. 

“Why aren’t you answering my texts?” I ask him and frown when my voice starts to soften. “I’m sick.” He grumbles back and blinks slowly at me, “You texted me?” He asks and coughs.

I smile understandably at him, worry now etching itself in my voice, “Nevermind, I’m sorry. You get some rest, okay?” I tell him softly, patting his shoulder. His lips pull into the corners of his mouth as he nods, “Whatever you say.” I start to walk off when he clears his throat, “Hey Arabelle! It’s good to have you back.”

I text Adriel the details of my mission, part of me wanting to go alone, but I knew it was neither safe nor smart to. I’m heading back to the girls dorm and wince as I hear a collection of squeals.

I frown. Oh, yeah. Lincoln’s celebration party was tonight. I sigh, shuffling back to my room and freeze when I see him standing in front of my doorway with an angry expression on his face.

Chapter 24: by you

Lincoln

I didn’t know why I’m even here. I no longer had to get married, God said I would lead regardless and the way Arabelle looked at me after the curse was over... She was mortified to even touch me. I was so confused.

I was beginning to have feelings I couldn’t quite express, but I didn’t want to lose our friendship and I know I shouldn’t trust my memories. Why did she call me ‘my love?’ 

I saw her conversation with Adriel earlier and I couldn’t help but be angrier at myself. I don't know how I felt about her now… I guess that’s why I found myself in front of her door. Again. 

I started to walk away. I was foolish, chasing after a daydream. I notice someone staring at me and I turn. Her face was crumpled with worry as her hands shook. Her eyes flitted to the floor and refused to meet mine, “H-hi.” 

I mentally fight with myself as tears involuntarily fill my vision, but I smile despite them, “Hey.”

We stood there for what felt like an eternity until she clears her throat, “I… I don’t know what to say…” she begins and looks at me finally. I searched her eyes for a moment and saw a possibility that she could be feeling the same. “I’m sorry, okay?” I find myself sighing and inwardly groan when my voice breaks, “I don’t really know why I’m here, I mean, I know what we saw wasn’t real, but aren’t you curious?”

I can’t seem to feel the floor underneath my feet as I wait for a reply. Her lips purse and she fumbles with her ring, a grim expression on her face as she eyes me thoroughly. For a moment, I’m mentally punching myself for laying my heart on the table, but with the grateful beat of my chest she nods.

Chapter 25: Becoming me 

Arabelle

When he looks at me, an adorably sheepish smile crosses his face and I blush. Good grief. I turn my head and cough lightly hoping to dissipate the rising flustered feeling in my chest to no avail. 

“Umm, okay then.” He mutters as I nod and slip into my room.

I numbly remember sliding to the floor like a hot puddle of goop, blushing to the ceiling of my room. I reach to pinch my face to get myself moving.

Good grief.

I pray internally for God to let me keep my thoughts on him and roll like a crazy burrito to my closet. What on earth was I even going to wear? I had no dresses… I almost reaching for my phone to text Katalina… and sigh. Oh, yeah. I frown, tracing my fingers over the screen that had her picture when I hear a knock at the door.

“I’m coming!” I yell and place my phone on the bed, “hello girlie!” Emelya responds excitedly, and for a moment I frown, “Yeah, I know… it’s weird for me too. I’ve learned to embrace both memories and now our new friendship!”

She fixed me up and for a moment things were nice. “You know, despite the curse, I’m still happy…” “Yeah… it's nice to feel close with someone…” I admit and smile at her in the mirror. She chuckles, “Yeah, yeah yeah, don’t mess up your mascara,” We decide to raid her closet for dresses, her choice being a teal green off the shoulder ruffle gown with a black shawl. 

As soon as I laid eyes on the sleeveless burgundy sweater dress my breath caught in my chest. She squeals knowingly, grabbing a pair of earrings and a simple gold chain. The hall was filled with laughter and music as the party had begun.

I heard similar tunes to the songs in my playlist and smiled. I had to give props to whoever the DJ was because they have great taste in music. I heard one song I’d never heard before as Emelya and I stepped arm in arm into the ballroom. I was reminded of the dance competition that seemed to be so long ago. This time around I had made God my goal. 

I had learned so much over the last couple of weeks and was finally beginning to understand the verse that I kept reading from Ecclesiastes. It wasn’t all about love and romance, but God was giving me a family and telling me to open up to people. Now I have more friends that I could actually count on.

I make my way to the refreshment table. “Hey, Ara Ara!” I hear and grimace, “Please no, don’t ever say that again.” I tell a woman that approaches me. Her small frame was a shock to her big blue eyes and long blonde hair, “It is what your name is?” She asks and I laugh, “Not even close!”

I had almost forgotten this was Lincoln’s party and flinched when the sound of a microphone turning in cuts through the music.

“Hello, hello, ladies and gentlemen! Welcome!” Joshua announces and we laugh collectively before he continues, “We have an important announcement to make, please give it up for the smaller person in charge, Lincoln Miller!” There was a round of applause followed by a few whistles from the announcer himself to which we laughed again.

Lincoln walks across the stage in a gorgeous tux. His eyes narrow as he squints, standing behind the podium and scanning the crowd.

“Hello.” He voices almost timidly and my heart jumps. There’s scattered laughter that quickly dies down when his expression changes.

He spots me, eyes widening before appreciation sets in and a lazy smile forms on his face, “It’s an honor to be before you guys today, I’m so grateful for your support.” He announces simply and there’s a whoop and holler from the crowd.

I remember waiting for the congratulations to end so that we could talk in private and when everyone left, he walked up to me. “Hey,” I greet, jabbing him in the arm, “Ow, what was that for?” He asks and I shake my head, “You can’t really be expecting us to date already, right? I’ve had food in the fridge at my old apartment longer than I’ve known you…” 

He chuckles, turning away from me and grabs a box that was hidden away on stage. “Maybe one day… For now, I would like to get to know you. The real you behind all the hurt and hiding...” The moment Lincoln looked into my eyes, I smiled and there was a feeling of comfort with him that I hadn’t noticed before.

He pulls the ribbon apart and wriggles off the lid.

Inside was a potato carved into the shape of a heart. I couldn’t help it, I burst into laughter. “What in the world?” I ask giggling and he chuckles, “This potato is simple and it may not seem like much right now, but it has so many useful purposes. And like this potato our relationship could have a new meaning… I would like to learn to grow together and see where the Lord takes us.”

 I tilt my head, cringing outwardly at the corniness, but feel a smile warming my face.

I sigh, resting my head on my pillow and praying, ‘Lord, I know that You are in control; I have no idea where Katalina is, but I know that you can keep her safe.’ 

My dream:

I’ve always dreamed I’d be looking down from the clouds. And here I was, thousands of miles in air peering down at the speck of land below. Fluorescent colors swirled around me and the portal up above me closed. For the moment I was suspended in mid-air looking towards the sunrise. A whip of cool air wraps around my feet and I fall. I hurtled towards the ground with a relaxed smile on my face as I realized I would soon see Heaven.

After yesterday’s cave visit, the elders decided that it was best to teach everyone how to fight for themselves. And not long after that God began bestowing us with different gifts, and I don’t mean birthday presents (well sort of). 

We were saying goodbye to Lincoln after he placed Eric in charge (he was doing his usual grumbling) when a portal opened. Of course we were all on high alert and panicked, but God had instructed us that we should learn to use our new abilities with discernment. 

That was a few months ago… Not all of us had discovered our gift yet and when Lincoln left last month to keep his dad on life support, things were going crazy in his absence. I was going crazy. 

I had to focus on my role, which to everyone else seemed to go on forever. As the leader’s ‘girlfriend’ I was supposed to carry myself with poise while excelling in all the classes. Unfortunately for me, his absence has been sending me through emotional turmoil. 

‘Today dawns a-new in my heart, a scarce goodbye panned with destiny at hand. These are my final words to you. My dearest… my friend, until we meet again.’ I signed the letter with bleary eyes that dripped giant tears onto the torn page.

Today I resolved in mind that I would resign my heart to God’s will for my life. I’m no longer going to wait for Lincoln’s response. He probably already forgot about me, but I couldn’t go along with hoping for rain in the desert. I sealed the letter watching as it blipped out of view.

Chapter 26: Once upon a dream

(Lincoln)

I’m late to save her again. 

My dreams always end the same. Me rushing to save her, my heart pounding in my chest and my stomach hollowing as I watch her fall, helplessly. I fall to my knees as the warm blood pools around them. My cheeks streaking with tears as I caress her hair for the last time and yell at the empty sky.

 I wanted to go back, to have real dates with my girlfriend because I didn’t know if I’d ever get the chance, but I couldn’t. I knew my people were well taken care of by Eric since I’ve left him in charge; there were guards already on the search for Katalina and they are sending daily updates, nothing yet. I was needed here. My father needed me and I had to provide a decent nest egg for when things hit the fan. 

I’ve been stuck in a cycle of depression since the dream came. Demons from my past taunted me to give up as I drifted from drugs to drinking in my mind, but I prayed until my knees buckled on the floor, pushing away the wicked thoughts, and drowned them with my tears as I cried out to God for help.

“I’m fine.” Is what I told my counselors when my attention slipped away. 

“I’m fine.” Is what I told my uncle who was concerned I would disappear out of the blue again. 

My mind was racing a million miles a minute when a very loud horn blares in my ears. I wake to find myself outside, again, in my pajamas standing in the middle of the street. I sigh, wave to my neighbor Chuck who swears, turns the steering wheel of his car and speeds off.

“Lincoln…” I hear a faint voice call and I know it's her. I turn around, but no one’s there. Just me alone with haunted dreams.

Chapter 27: The Beginning

Arabelle

My dream:

I’m sitting in the passenger side of a car, although I could see it, it wasn’t really me. I look in the mirror and touch my hair. The dull black hair was limp and thin, almost stringy and I felt like it would break off as I barely managed to push it out of my face to take a peek at my eyes. My (I guess her) eyes were a lifeless pale green, and her complexion pale white. When I took a glance out of the window, the motion was sluggish and laboring as if I were drowsy and I noticed the blue sky. The sun flashing through the opening of the blurring trees that we pass. 

‘I know you’re there, little one.’ A voice hissed. The sound made my stomach clench. I looked at the driver’s seat. There was a woman similar to me though her skin was tanned and her hair shone. Her full ruby lips were a compliment to the vibrant green eyes that stared back at me, the real me.

 “I want to leave.” I think I whispered, but the voice didn’t sound like mine. I feel the car slow down and the woman smiles at me. I could see it in her eyes. Even if I got out of the car and ran, I could never escape her. She would find me. She would always find me.

I gasp, waking up with a splitting headache and frown, ‘Where was I?’ All around me were trees and I could smell smoke. I hear voices yell in the distance and frown, ‘Did I sleepwalk again?’ I walk back to the house, a feeling that someone was watching me, bore into the back of my mind and I feel a tug in my heart. I had a feeling that something was wrong with Lincoln, but I couldn’t quite place it. 

‘And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful…’ I hear the minister say and I inwardly apologize to God for zoning out again, but my attention is drawn to the window once more, ‘You’ll be with him, later tonight…’ I think I hear and frown. I needed to pay attention. I couldn’t put whatever we had before God.

“Arabelle, I would like to speak with you.” Dante, the pastor, announces when the sermon ends and I hold in a breath. Oh no, I’ve done something wrong… I look around and scowl inwardly at myself since I was still sitting there. Everyone else was long gone apparently and the sermon was over an hour ago. 

“Y-yes?”I ask cautiously and bite the inside of my cheek. His gray eyes were solemn as they watched me carefully, his suit fwips when he grasps my shoulders, “I know you had no way of hearing me child,” he states gently and smiles knowingly, the sight warming my heart, but part of me cringes at his words. “I don’t mean to…” I start to say, but he cuts me off completely, “Nonsense, you’re worried about Lincoln.” He states simply and when I nod he frowns. 

“Go. Leave now, or our leader may be lost to us forever.” Huh? That’s definitely not what I expected him to say, I thought it would be more like, ‘Just kidding! Go back to class, it’s getting late.’ 

When I throw a questioning glance at him he almost growls, “Will you not heed my warning due to pride? I’m telling you Lincoln will die.” My heart thuds in my chest and my mouth falls open, “What do you…” he cuts me off by turning me to face the doors of the church and pushes me forcefully towards the entrance, “The guards don’t know, nor should they. The elders are hesitant to send him help because they are angry and unwilling to have him back. You must leave now. Take whomever you need with you, the journey will be vastly different from what you’re used to.” 

He turns to me a somber gaze raking the edges of my heart when he frowns. “You must not trust anyone you meet until you get there. Now run, child.” 

I speed walk to my room, questions storming my mind, when I bump into Emeyla in the hallway. “Ah!” She yelps and her notes flutter to the ground, “I’m… I’m so sorry.” I apologize quickly, and rush to help her pick them up, “Girl, what…?” She asks looking into my eyes and I guess I looked pretty distraught. I didn't know it was shown all over my face, but she frowns, lowering her voice, “Is everything okay?”

I grab her shoulder, but my voice fails me and the only word I can utter is, “Trouble.” She nods, pulling me towards the weapons room and we’re careful not to be seen. “What do we do?” She asks when I’ve explained everything and I exhale shakily as tears threaten to choke me.  

“I need Eric…” “But he’s in charge…” She finishes for me and I place my face in my hands, thankful at her arms wrapping around me in comfort. “Adriel will do anything for you now…” She starts and I grimace. I knew I forgave him for what he did, but that didn’t mean I quite trusted him just yet. But I needed someone who could fight. 

Most of the guards were close with the elders so the only other people I could trust were Joshua and the guy we met in the cave, Padriac. “When do we leave?” She asks when we grab some climbing supplies and a pouch for water heading to my room for a backpack. “Hey, ladies. Where are you headed?” I hear behind us and jump. 

Joshua stands behind us with a granola bar in hand, “Shh!” Emeyla warns him and when his eyes widen, she pulls him aside, giving him a quick summary and he nods, expression turning serious, “There’s no question about it. We have to get Eric.” He states, but we grip his arm, “We can't, that’s the problem.”

He sighs, shoulder slumping in realization, “Who would he leave in charge?” I’m gathering a few outfits, shoving them into a bag when a thought pops into my head. 

“That’s right! He doesn’t have to!” I announce, a smile lifting my face and they look at me like I’ve lost it. 

“Girl, I’m sorry, but I think the stress is starting to get to you…” Emeyla says gently and I laugh, “No actually she’s right…” Joshua states and my grin grows. “I’m sorry, but I’m not following…” She cuts in and he chuckles, “If Eric doesn’t assign anyone, the position automatically falls to Dante, but the council won’t allow it so they’ll be in direct opposition against God…” “Therefore putting themselves out of their own job and making things easier for us when we get back…” She finishes for him and nods agreeingly, “Oooh! Girl, you’re clever.”

“It was God’s idea.” I say and hear a faint chuckle behind us; the group turns, Tuyeng stands there wide eyed, her smile falling. “Sorry, wrong room.” Her personality would help us greatly, but I didn’t want to put her in danger. God is this okay? I ask and feel the need to step forward, “Tuyeng… We need your help…” 

We each packed a bag, agreeing to regroup after dinner and Emeyla talks to Adriel at the dining table, his eyes widened, but he doesn’t say anything, only nods and gives me a look I can’t place. Yeah things were going to be awkward, but honestly he was the only other person I would trust to go with us. Eric was hesitant to join us at first, but after hearing our plan he agreed and ordered us to wait until 11.   

We regrouped in the dining hall when it was time, each of us shouldered our bags, I couldn’t hide my nervousness if I wanted, and the silence was so thick when I chewed on my nails I couldn’t hear the footsteps approaching.

“Ara.” I hear Eric's voice behind me and pinch my eyes shut, “It’s going to be okay…” he starts and I sigh, “I know, it's just…” I didn’t want anyone to get hurt. I started to say, but I felt like it would be pointless to voice it. People would be hurt if we didn’t. 

“Let’s go.” 

As Joshua, Eric, Adriel, Padriac, Emeyla, Tuyeng and I walked quietly towards the gate, I could feel the back of my mind buzzing with panic. What if something went wrong? I wasn’t even sure where he was, let alone what I would say to him when we got there…

“Our group name is Je-tapea!” Joshua speaks excitedly and I frown at him. He laughs when I shake my head, “What? It’s the first letter of our names rearranged into a word!” I felt a chill over me, glancing back at the lights turning on in the mansion behind us. “Guys…” I whisper and notice that more were turning on. “Guys!” I say even louder as more lights turn on, “We have to run!”

The forest was up ahead, but there was no way we’d made it in time before we were spotted, “Lord, shield us from their eyes…” I whisper, bowing my head and feel the air get thicker around us. Fog began to form and the moisture slid against my skin like a robe. “What’s this?” I hear someone ask and I hush them, “They can’t see us, but they can still hear, we need to leave.” Fog covered the valley ahead of us that led into the woods. From there the trees would be our cover.

“Don’t let them get away!” We hear behind us and the sounds of clanking filling my ears as we dash for the woods, my breathing heavy and my heart pounds. The air magnetized and when I looked towards the rest of the group ahead, I spotted Adriel with his arm outstretched and he looked like he was concentrating. I was confused, until flecks of light danced in front of us and formed a portal. “Everyone into the portal!” Eric shouts and we rush together, a buzzing sound fills my ears when I pass through and pieces of the scene in front of me change as there is no longer ground below me. 

Ah, and here I was falling through the air, will the portal closing behind me. I blink, a sense of deja vu nagging the back of my thoughts when suddenly air bends around us and we’re on the ground once more, “OOF!” everyone exclaims, each of us crumpling to our knees at the after effect. 

Someone throws up and someone else screams. “Que en el mundo? ¡Es un demonio!” I wince and look over to an older lady, bend over on her cane, eyes frantic as she looks at us then passes out. I grimace and Eric walks over to her, making sure she didn’t hit her head on the way down and I take a good look around us, “Where are we?” Emelya asks and I shrug looking over to the old lady’s little village. 

It looked like mid-day even though we left at night and there were people carrying large baskets filled with fruit over their heads. It must be a tropical resort island or something, “Excuse me, does anyone here speak English?” Eric asks a young man that was passing by and he nods, “Yes, but is my grandmother… Is she okay?” 

He later explains that we were on a neighboring island off the coast of Puerto Rico. I guess a portal could only take us so far.

‘Don't trust anyone you meet along the way’... I remember Dante’s warning and frown. “We need to leave.” I whisper fervently to Eric fervently who turns to me, eyes blazing as he nods, “I know, but right now we need to get to America and Adriel can’t pull that portal thing again. He’s drained.”

I looked over to Adriel, who was unnaturally pale, beads of sweat dripped down his face and his lips were cracked. I feel heat rise in my face and sigh. He did get us all out of a tough spot. “Arabelle, what happened in your dream?” I hear Eric ask once the young man from earlier welcomes us into his home. The other members of our group thank him openly and gather around the table for food. 

I wasn’t hungry. I was anxious and scared and… the smell of fresh blood filled my nostrils and I froze. My eyes darted towards the young man and I had an uneasy feeling wash over me, “Arabelle?” Eric asks, trying to get my attention, but when I part my lips to speak, I can’t. 

A weird sound leaves me and I point to the guy who was now a few feet taller than he should have been. His arms were four times the size they used to be and a creepy smile cracked across his face while his eyes darkened. Even the sclera of his eyes were black and his mouth emits a cackle that shakes the room.

“Guys…” Emeyla says, gripping Tuyeng’s arm, who squeaks, “We need to leave!” 

The door, which was previously opened, slams shut and wooden boards line the exits to the house. “But you see, there is no way out.” He bellows towering over us.

Chapter 28: Reasons…

(Eric)

I struggled against the ropes that held me to the main mast, ‘God, why didn’t I just run?’ I pray morbidly when I’m lurched forward, the break of the ship kissing the waves once more. Emeyla, who was captured along with me, was on the other side of the beam and began wriggling against her restraints.

The tips of her copper red hair whip through the harsh winds and tickle against my face,”Mph-hm!” I protest against my gag to no advantage and a scent of honeysuckles and sweet tea hits the inside of my soul. I hum my appreciation and find myself thinking back to my old foster mom’s house. 

I recall the events and huff aggravatedly. Arabelle told me we should go. The guy that invited us in started laughing and told us there was no way out, and there were boards blocking our exits. His face and body began to change as he morphed into an ogre and my first reaction was to fight when it should’ve been to run. Arabelle started praying and a fire erupted from the fireplace.

It distracted the ogre long enough for her to grab Adriel who was pale and dripping with sweat, and pull him out of harm's way. Joshua grabbed Tuyeng. They made it out safely as far as I’m aware, but I stood between him and Emelya to defend her but I was soon knocked out. Emeyla apparently tried to rescue me by singing and instead of killing us both, their resolve was to get some revenge by using her skill hence the kidnapping.

I’m glad Arabelle got away at least, I couldn't stand the thought of her being captured, but what worried me was her being alone. ‘She’s not alone,’ The Holy Spirit reminds me and I sigh softly, how could I forget? She’s with a sickly person, a jokester, and someone who could barely speak English. I groan, that wasn’t making me feel any better. ‘I’m with her.’ God clarifies and I nod, ‘You’re right, Lord. Please help my unbelief.’

When peace washes over me and a slight touch of someone else’s hand glides against mine. I nearly jump then remembered Emelya. She was probably terrified. I squeeze what I can grip of her fingers in reassurance and push my tongue against the gag to allow some room. I manage to wiggle it away from the crease of my lips and wince at the pain when my cracked bottom lip slid against the tightness of the cloth. My blood allowed it to slip free, the sting making my face contort but I hold my breath. Where were they?

I allow my free hand to wiggle against my bonds, breathing against the pain of my thumb sliding past, almost there, and was about to break free when the ropes fall suddenly. “Well, hello. Eric.” A familiar voice says, and I know it’s her. 

Katalina stands across from me on the deck, the outskirts of her teal blue summer dress flowing beautifully in the winds that passed, but her smile was nothing but wicked. “Long time, no see.”