The dawn light peeks out my barely dark curtains covering the window, across from my bed. 

I can hear the birds chirping starting to chip loudly, I put the pillow over my head to drown them out better, feeling dizzy and slightly nauseous, hoping it was just a headache but the birds did not help at all.

I looked up at my old Nixie tube clock on my desk by the window, it reads September 1st, 5:12 a.m. I faced palmed down to my pillow and groaned loudly as I got up, struggling as I could.

Great, it's early morning, and getting ready for my first day of freshman year! But it's hard if you are six months pregnant, mind you. 

I noticed the old Sir Hamilton Cheval-style mirror, reflecting on me, seeing through my left light blue eye and right amber eye that I have long thick natural brown wavy hair with a white streak on the hairline like Rouge from X-Men, or Sweeney Todd's, also on my left eyebrow some of it was white. 

Looking down, I have a lean, slightly muscular, and flexible body due to gymnastics in the past, I have four garnet-colored rings on the helix part and two on the lobe of both ears.

But what was taking over was a stretched-out white tank top that was bulging belly of mine. 

I sighed, caressing my belly softly, knowing the fact I'm carrying quadruplets, pulling up my red maternity pants that were coming loose.

I looked away from the mirror, walking out of my room to head down to the kitchen. I stopped at the lower section of the stairs to see Mom, Dad, and Aunt Sheila making breakfast early together.

I looked at my adopted father, who is named Greg and has brown eyes, short black hair, and dark skin. He is quite tall and muscly but not much and has facial hair that is a full-trimmed beard. He is wearing a dark sky-blue polo shirt and old jeans with brown boots.

He was flipping the pancakes, about him that he's quite helpful and jovial.

Then I turned to my adopted mother, who is named Rita and has brown eyes, shoulder-length brown hair with curls, and fair skin. She is quite petite compared to Dad but she has a lean body. She is wearing a teal ocean-colored button-up blouse and blue jeans with faded Converse shoes. 

She was cutting some strawberries and about her is that she is supportive and caring to me, my twin, and Aunt Sheila.

Now lastly I looked at my aunt, Sheila Heywood, who has light grey eyes, she has blond hair up in a bun with front hair strands loose. She is quite taller than Mom and can be surprisedly athletic due to me and my twin being chaotic as toddlers. She wears really cool clothing that is a Victorian dress renaissance costume women's medieval Vintage Ball Gown thing where the top section is white and the bottom is black. It seems that my twin, Aunt Sheila, and I have a shared love of the Victorian era.

She set up the plates on the wooden island, about her, she is kind, loving, and quite bluntly honest. 

Anyway, she is somewhat of a nanny, maid, and aunt combined. Long story short, She's a long-time friend of my bio parents and uncle, and after they died, there was no choice but to give me and my twin for adoption, for which Mom and Dad were the top candidates to receive us.

Aunt Sheila didn't know that they died and that we were adopted and she had requested our adopted parents to let her be with us since we were only left a memory of her deceased best friends.

Then the rest of it is history.

Now I walked down to the kitchen, where Mom noticed me as entered the kitchen from the kitchen, "Oh, good morning, breakfast is almost ready" Mom smiled as she knocked me out of my thoughts.

"Morning what are we having?" I ask as I walk over kissing both of my parents' cheeks before sitting down on the island with the stools underneath, which gives me room due to me being pregnant.

Dad turns around to look at me, "My famous blueberry pancake faces." he says as he puts the pancakes on the plates where Shelia set up and then puts them back on the island, Mom, Dad, and Aunt Sheila with her coffee, sat down with me, Dad makes the best blueberry pancakes with faces on them!

"Oh my god, these are so incredible! Are you ever going to teach me how to make these?" I ask him.

Dad chuckles, "We have all the time in the world." he says and I smile, this is one thing I love about having a family sitting at breakfast in the morning talking and doing the same thing at night over dinner.

"Is your brother still sleeping?" Mom asked, continuing to wolf down the pancakes.

Aunt Sheila stirred her coffee, and sighed mournfully, "Knowing him, he's like a dead that ignores the world around him no matter if we wake him up." giving up on waking my brother since he turned five years old.

We all chuckled, knowing that that was true.

"Excited for the first day of school, Adal?" Dad asked, looking up at me while eating the pancake.

"It's exciting but also nerve-racking at the same time," I tell them, swallowing down the inexplicable bile that rose in my throat due to nerves or nausea. 

Aunt Sheila asked, "How so?" with a puzzled look on her face, continuing to eat the pancake.

I chewed the pancake in my mouth slowly while pointing at my stomach, which carried the babies.

"Oh.." Aunt Sheila sipped her coffee, not sure how to help me with that problem of mine. 

"Oh, don't worry about it," Mom smiling as she steals my strawberry from my plate with her fork, "you have us and your brother for support whenever happens." Mom says, being supportive she is.

"Thanks, Mom," I said, then giving her an annoyed look, "and stop stealing my berry!" defending my breakfast from her.

Mom chuckles while Dad interjected, "To add that," He gestured the fork at me to make a point, "the teachers and staff have been notified personally, so no one knows that you are pregnant but them."

I'm not quite sure if that is the best idea to begin with but it is my idea that everyone went along with it.

"I guess so…" I said as I continued to eat more of the pancakes until a girly scream rang out throughout the house, leaving us all confused. 

A loud thudding from upstairs running, seeing my twin brother speed down the stairs, and enter into the kitchen where we were all eating.

My twin brother, Rosier, has long thick natural brown wavy hair that stops at the shoulder blade length with a white streak on the hairline like me, also on the same left eyebrow, some of it was white too like me. 

He has a lean, slightly muscular, and flexible body due to gymnastics together with me. He has the same four garnet-colored rings on the helix part and two on the lobe of both ears. He wears nothing over his chest and we can see the brown happy trail, but black with blue shark pajama pants. 

"You scream like a girl." I prompted, tilting my head to my brother which caused others in the kitchen to laugh.

Rosier huffed and glared at me like I just offended his nonexistent pride as he said, "I do not!"

"Did to." I retort, ignoring the dirty look shot at me by my annoying brother.

"Did not." Rosier spat.

"Did to.~" I sang.

"Did not." Rosier growled.

"Did not." I said sneakily.

"Did to—damn!" Rosier growled out, giving me a dirty look that I won in victory. We all chucked at the amusement of Rosier's childish tantrum.

"Anyway, Adal, look at this!" Rosier said as he walked closer to me with his face close to me and pointed at his jawline excitedly. I stared at his jawline in confusion, to notice some brown spots of something so being curious as I am, I reached out my hand to touch it.

It felt soft as if it was hair, wait, is that what I think it is?

"You got a beard?!" I yelped in shock, and so did everyone.

Rosier nodded in pride and said, "Yep, finally got a beard growing in!" 

"Dad! You said beards don't come in until they were around in twenty's?" I asked Dad for answers, there was no way that Rosier had a stubble beard this early.

"I was not expecting Rosier to have them at fourteen?" Dad said incredulously while laughing slightly.

"Well, to be honest, Rosier and Adal's biological father is quite hairy like a bear," Aunt Sheila points out, "like a handsome British lumberjack." making us all laugh.

"Well, sweetheart, I'm glad you got a stubble and finally wake." Mom says kissing Rosier on the cheek and getting a plate for him to eat on, as he takes the seat beside me. 

"Guys seriously, I love you guys but that is an achievement for being the youngest guy to have a growing beard," Rosier said as I put the fresh blueberry pancake on his plate which he mouthed 'thank you' to me.

"Well, I should start getting ready soon at a pregnant speed." I said as I got off my stool, to put my dirty plate in the sink.

"Take your time." Rosier chuckles, knowing that I would be slow so I batted his arm for being an annoying brother as I went upstairs, heading to my bedroom.

As I entered my room, I felt the dumps again. Needless to say, I'm not stoked for high school, which is kind of a downer. Not because of the babies or the fact that I tend to be introverted more than my twin sometimes, it's just I don't have very many friends.

Ignoring my sad thoughts again, I headed to my window to move the curtains over for the dawn light to rise more. I backed away from it, grabbing the navy towel that was on my black bean bag and the yeti-printed bathrobe and heading out of the room to the bathroom that I shared with Rosier.

I got in the bathroom, shed the jammies off me, and went into the shower stark naked. Turning the water on, I feel the warmth hitting me down which feels good on my sore body that is being used as an incubator for my gremlins. As I washed my hair with shampoo, I continued using the gentle type of body wash on my body. 

*Bahhh! Bahhh!! Bahhh! Bahhh!!!*

I heard the monster alarm blaring that Rosier set up on the bathroom counter table, letting me know I spent too long in here. It works out very well for both of us.

Walking out of my bathroom after taking my morning shower wearing my bathrobe and my hair wet, I make my way into my bedroom which is being lit up by the morning sun shining through my window.

Dang, I spent way too long…

I take my hair freely to help them be more loose, heading to the desk, that has my blowdryer to start to blow dry and brush my hair before thinking about what to wear my outfit for school.

I looked at my vintage mirror once again. I sighed and stared at myself, trying to give myself a good pep talk, well sorta of, "You're not a dork, Adal. You're a cool kid with baby gremlins, and this year is gonna be so cool."

Suddenly, I heard a familiar voice from behind me, and I turned slowly to see the amused face of my brother, dressed already in washed blue ripped jeans, and an old torn dark purple sweatshirt that had a loose neck hole with a black tank top underneath, he also wears old dark brown rugged boots.

"Morning again! Adal, who are you talking to?" Rosier asked as he heard me talk myself with the mirror.

I sighed and shrugged, "Rosier, hi. Sorry, just figuring out my first day of school look with the gremlins involved." Feeling slightly embarrassed.

Rosier gave me a perplexed look and said, "Really? As I recall, you spent a good two hours debating exactly this issue last Tuesday." He crossed his arms to make a point.

I stammered, caressing my pregnant belly nervously, "Well, yeah but…." deciding to tell the truth, "I decided I'm gonna audition for the school play, so I need to wear something that will impress the other theatre kids." 

"Didn't you say that last year?" Rosier chuckled with amusement. 

I growled softly, "I might have. What's your point?" I feel quite annoyed by this interrogation now. 

Rosier sat down on my bed, and said, "My point is, you made that huge fuss about memorizing that monologue and perfecting that song, but then you decided not to try out because you were too shy."

That was before I was pregnant and now I have the weird hormones that make me a little braver and somewhat reckless.

"Okay but....that's all in the past since I got pregnant now and I tend to be stir crazy if I don't do something." I said, rubbing my arms to assure myself.

Rosier gives me a skeptical look and shrugs.

I looked at Rosier for sure and said, "This is a new year, a new school, and a new me with the gremlins along! The year where I finally find my real friends!—" Then I growled, "—Which is why I need the perfect outfit and way to hide my gremlins so I'm stealing your clothes!!"

Rosier laughed but nodded understanding, "I get it, just don't make us late, 'Kay? If I get too many tardies, Coach Shaw can bench me for a whole game." he got off my bed and went to walk out my door. 

"Okay, okay. I'll see you downstairs." I tell him, my twin waves at me and exits, shutting the door behind him. I look through my closet one more time.

"I must have something that will show the world I'm ready to make my mark and fashionable to hide my gremlins." I said certainly.

I give myself a once-over clothing that I call an Uptown Punk look in the mirror to wear maternity black ripped skinny jeans, a grey tank top underneath, and a muddy green sweatshirt that I stole from my twin brother to hide my pregnant belly, also wearing black Chuck Converse shoes. 

Oh yeah, no one would know that I'm very pregnant. 

"Looking good, de Blackwood. Look out, Berry High! Here comes Adal de Blackwood!" I exclaimed, then there were a sudden multiple kicks from my gremlins for not including them in. 

I rubbed softly on my belly to assure my gremlins, "Sorry but not sorry little gremlins." I gave myself one last check-over and was ready to grab my backpack to head downstairs to meet Rosier outside.

As I'm downstairs, nearing the front door entrance, Mom, Dad, and Aunt Sheila have expressed excitedly and loudly shout, 

"Good luck!" from Aunt Sheila.

"Have fun!" from Mom.

"Be safe!" from Dad.

I yelled out, "Will do guys!"

Finally, outside of our house, I saw Rosier waiting for me, patiently as he whistled softly out loud, catching a good tune. 

"Okay, okay! I'm ready! Sorry for making you wait." I said as I tried to hurry up.

Rosier shrugged and gave me a soft smile, "You're fine, and don't worry about it," shrugging like it was no big deal and pointed at my nonexistent pregnant belly, "besides, you're pregnant with my nieces or nephews so it's no big deal." He said.

He looked at my maternity pants with a puzzled expression and asked, "Inside and out, I might add," he took one more look at my pants once again, "did you and Mom go shopping without me?"

I smiled mischievously and said, "Nope…" I walked a bit further from him and answered, "but Dad and I did."

Rosier grumbles and mocks at Dad, "Humph. And he says he doesn't play favorites." acting like a grumpy old man.

I scoffed at his comment and retorted, "Oh please, he took you to that restaurant convention last June." I joked and glared at him.

Rosier refused to confess to my accusation and chose to ignore it like it was nothing.

I smiled, shaking my head at his humor, and said, "Well, what are we waiting for? To the bus stop!" I hoist my backpack onto my back and dash as I can with the gremlins in my stomach off toward the curb. 

Startling Rosier, he quickly sped up to catch up with me and yelled out, "Adal! Wait! You forgot to zip—"

But it's too late. I'm halfway across my neighbor's lawn when the backpack flies open, sending all my new school supplies flying!

"Damn it!" I cursed.

I struggle to crouch down without letting anyone know that I'm struggling, to pick up my stuff while Rosier chuckles. I was drying the dew off of my graphing calculator when someone tapped me on the shoulder. I look up and see my hot next-door neighbor holding my box of black Incredibles pencils. 

My heart skips a beat.

There she is in sight, with green eyes and long brown wavy hair with a half-up half-down hairstyle, fair-skinned, she has three gold ring earrings on the lower helix part of her both ears. She also wears a purple shirt and a long gray open sweater with a necklace. She wears ripped jeans with a brown belt around the waist.

"Oh, um, hi, Rory!" I said, with a slight blush on my cheek as I stood back up.

Rory smiled gently and asked, "What's up, Adal?"

I shrugged and answered randomly, "Birds. Clouds. Gas prices." Really, that's what comes out of my head?

"You're not wrong." Rory said as she smiled, then she trailed down and up at my clothes, "New first day of school outfit?" she asked.

The maternity pants are new and I think she hasn't seen Rosier's sweatshirt before, so it makes sense that it would be a new outfit…

I stammered, "H-how'd you k-know?" with a small blush.

Rory looked at me once again, "Looks great on you. You look…" As the green eyes made contact with my heterochromia eyes, she suddenly changed her words quickly, "different."

I pulled back my brown hair strand behind my left ear, and said, "Aw, thanks!" 

Rory smiled and seemed to accept my answer gratefully as she held up the box of pencils.

"Are these yours?" Rory asked.

"Incredibles pencils? That depends," looking at the box of pencils more, "Are they the kind with the light pink erasers?" I said sagely. 

"Oh gosh. I love that movie," Rory commented, "And didn't realize you were so picky about your pinks." with amusement as she looked at me.

"I'm not a pink fan! But the light pink erasers erase better. I swear!" I exclaimed to defend my right to hate pink. Rory's hand brushes against my hand as she returns the pencils to me.

Rory chuckles, and says, "It'll be so nice going to school with you again."

"Really?" I asked with surprise shown on my face.

"You bet. Never a dull moment with you around," Rory answered happily and went off-topic for a second, "Hey, remember when I used to go over to your house every day and watch Pixar movies?".

"How could I forgot? That was that summer when—" I answered fondly until I remembered about Mrs.Silva not feeling well, "—Never mind." I said quickly, feeling sad about it.

"It's cool. And I really appreciate all your family did for me back then. It was a bigger deal than I realized." Rory said gently, seeming glad that I was being gentle with it, "In the meantime, I'll see you at auditions for The Enchanted Kingdom?" she asked happily as she changed topics.

"Yeah, I am so excited!" I happily said in response.

"Cool! You're gonna love it. Now, I've gotta run," she said as she headed to her dark red car, opening it before entering, "They say getting a parking spot as a sophomore is like the Hunger Games."

She waves goodbye at me as I call after. "May the odds be ever in your favor!" But Rory is already in her car, driving away.

"Oh well." I said sadly. 

Rosier comes up behind me, smirking. I had totally forgotten about him and wasn't feeling good about the mischievous look on his face. 

"I thought you got over Rory years ago?" Rosier asked slyly.

I scoffed and said, "What the heck are you talking about?" looking at him like he was an idiot.

Rosier still giving me the Cheshire smile, crept closer to me as I stepped back again and he said, "Getting flustered about pencils?—" Then he crept forward to me again and sang, "-You have a crush!~"

"A crush on Rory?" I exclaimed, looking bewildered, "I do not!"

Rosier said, "Really? Because that would explain why you're so determined to do the play…" as he gave me a pointed look saying that I should confess. 

"That's not the only reason!" I yelped. 

"Are you sure?" Rosier haggled me.

I rolled my eyes and stuffed the last of my supplies back in my backpack.

"All right. If you say so." Rosier said as he backed off for another time to haggle me again.

I groaned, rubbing my pregnant belly, to calm down the gremlins from kicking more as I said, "Why couldn't I have a dog instead of a twin?—" I gave a glare at my twin, "A dog wouldn't know my inner workings."

Rosier chuckles, "You'd have to pick up its poop." he pointed out, waking backward so he can face me.

I made a grunt sound and retorted at him, "A small sacrifice for being able to keep secrets." Just then, I hear the rumble of a motor.

I looked up to see the bus coming, I yelped, "The bus!"

Rosier and I scramble over to the bus stop and get onto the bus.

Then a boy, who has brown eyes, short black hair, and tan skin. He wears a black and white hooded cardigan over a gray shirt.

He yelled out, "Yo, de Blackwood! Over here!"

"Oh, do I know—" I asked but was apparently interrupted by my twin.

"Lorenzo! How are you doing?" Rosier exclaimed as he and the boy now known as Lorenzo, fist bump, and sat down together.

So much for brotherly love…at least my gremlins are still with me.

I looked over to see the only seat left was at the front of the bus, next to a hot small redheaded goth girl.

I asked her, "Hey, um, mind if I sit here?"

Not even looking at me, she said, "No." with barely any emotion behind it but her voice was so soft with just a small edge of danger, it captivated me.

Ignoring her since I'm pregnant and my feet getting sore, I said happily, "Thanks!" as I sat down and watched as the goth stared out the window.

I looked at her, she was really pretty for having long red hair and dark blue eyes. She is of slightly a more petite build, and quite flexible. She wears a red and black striped shirt with long sleeves, a black short jeans skirt with a belt, and fishnet tights, in addition to a black necklace, a bracelet on her left arm, and dark lipstick. 

I said, "I like your outfit."

The goth girl replied, "Thanks, I stole it." which caused me to pause for a minute if she was telling the truth or joking.

I had to ask, "Really?" with skepticism shown on my face.

She retorted, "No." 

She keeps looking out the window and doesn't say anything more. Great, it seems like I won't have a good day.

"Okay, nice talking to you then." I awkwardly said and kinda wilted, trying not to stare at the pretty goth girl any longer. At least the gremlins are distracting me perfectly by doing the small kicks.

I didn't notice that the goth girl was making sneaky glances at me for some reason.

I sit in silence for the rest of the ride. It was painstaking to be quiet since I could see my brother chatting with his friends, maybe I should prank him soon. Finally, I see that we have arrived at the school.

The bus stops, opening the door as I just getting up when the pretty goth girl speaks, "Sky."

I asked, "Sky? Like where the clouds are?" with a puzzled expression shown on my face.

She plainly said, "No, Skye. With an 'e'. That's my name."

I smiled at her and said, "I'm Adal. Nice to meet you, Sky with an 'e'." with a little quirk in my voice at the end as I tried to make a nice joke but it seemed that she didn't like it.

Skye said, "Don't call me that." 

I sadly said, "Sorry." 

Great, good job Adal, you have ruined your chances of making a friend.

Skye said, "Whatever. Bye. Adal." She walks off the bus without another word, dang that girl was tiny and very quick on her feet. 

I do hate to see her go but I love to watch her leave…that ass…

Later, I had to drop off my stuff at my locker and head to Theatre Arts 1, which was the first class of the day.

Thankfully was just down the Hall from the Theater where my first class was located. The seats were filled with a scattering of students from Freshmen to Seniors being this was an elective, the man that stood near the front of the stage was obviously our teacher, Mr.Olson.

Mr.Olson, has gray eyes, short blond hair, and light skin. He wears glasses and a gray striped dress shirt, combined with a black slip-over and a black and white tie.

He said, "Welcome, actors, to Theatre Arts 1. I'm Mr.Olson, your teacher. Now, there is a syllabus to go over, but before we get to that, I'd like to jump right into acting and see where you all are. I'm going to partner everyone up—" While the man looked stern in his professional attire and a neutral face, his voice was smooth and calming, he observed all of us until he looked at me for a second then moved on, "—then, you and your partner will prepare a short Shakespeare scene to perform for me."

Soon after that, he reads off a list of names before getting to…

"Adal de Blackwood and Erin Ward," 

A tall girl, who has short hair, and she has two grey ring earrings on both of her ears. She wears a long-sleeved white top with red and blue stripes.

She is near the front and waves at me and smiles.

The two of us take scripts from Mr.Olsen before sitting toward the back of the room.

I started to read and said, "Brutus, I do observe you now of late. I have not from your eyes that gentleness and show of love as I was want to have," Being puzzled and in irritation I am that I asked her, "Um, do you by any chance know what the what this means?"

Erin gave me a bit of a giggle and answered, "Yeah. You're saying that you've noticed that I, Brutus, haven't been as friendly with you as usual lately." before lounging back into the theatre chair.

With surprise, I asked her, "Wait, how did you know that?" with a smile on my face.

Erin smiled and explained lazily, a hand behind her head, "Well, partly because I've done Shakespeare before, so I'm a little better at understanding it," she pondered for a moment and continued, "But mostly because I read Julius Caesar last year in sophomore English. Wanna try that again?"

I nodded and tried again with the right tone, speaking in a slow almost worried and sorrowful tone, "Brutus, I do observe you now of late. I have not from your eyes that gentleness and show of love as I was want to have."

"You've got it!" She exclaimed, nodding her head, the smile on her face getting bigger.

As two of us read through the rest of the scene a few times before resting.

"So, Adal, that was some good acting." Erin looked at me as she complimented me, "Especially for someone who hasn't done Shakespeare before. Are you trying out for The Enchanted Kingdom?" She seems excited about the new people trying out the parts.

I nodded, giving her a smile, and answered, "Yeah." I took a snack from my mixed berry of Skittles, I'm always hungry due to my gremlins.

"Sweet! So am I!," She said excitedly, "I really want to play either the king or the jester," as she asked curiously, "What about you?"

I pondered on that for a while on which parts but I lamely said, "I'm trying out for everything. As long as I get to hang out with Rory, I'd play a tree." leaning back in my chair.

Erin winced and said, "I see. Well, if it's Rory's attention you want, I'm afraid you have a lot of competition." Her voice was steady.

Confused by what she could mean, I asked, "What do you mean, Erin?"

Erin sighed as she explained, "Let me put it this way…Adal, there's a reason everyone's saying they're going to cast Rory as the knight and Bellatrix as the prince—er, princess?" 

"Who's Bellatrix?" I asked, couldn't help but make a face, not knowing who that was.

Erin nodded her head in understanding and responded, "Last year's prom queen and one of the most popular kids in school." she shrugged like it was no big deal.

I was quite surprised by that, and said in confusion, "They're going to cast her just because she's popular?" Is this how auditions work?

I pouted, which caused Erin to laugh a little as she explained again, "From what I hear, she's a good actor, too, but that is part of it. People are more likely to see the show if Bellatrix is the lead. Same with Rory, honestly. Last year, a good third of our audience was there because they had crushes on her."

I tried to fight a frown, but that little bit of self-doubt and lack of confidence crept back up, I started rubbing my belly softly under my sweatshirt out of habit and bit the inside of my lips, sighed mournfully, "Maybe I should find something else to do. I'm no good at popularity contests." I do not like popularity due to the situation in France involving our family name.

Erin shot up from the spot she had been lounging on for the majority of their time, assuring me, "Don't worry. That's just the leads. The rest of the department is full of dorks like me," she smiled at me and continued, "you'll fit right in."

I jokingly gasped and said, "Are you calling me a dork?"

Erin chuckled softly and said, "In a good way. Dorks have more fun." seeing that I still hadn't made up my mind.

I shrugged in defeat and said, "If you say so…."

Erin assured me, "You should at least audition. If you hate it, you can always decline the role."

I pondered for a second, nodded in agreement, and said, "You make a good point, Erin," I tilted my head a bit, continuing, "Besides, I've already spent so much time preparing."

I went silent as Mr.Olson called out from the stage again, "Okay, everyone, do we have any volunteers to read first?"

Erin grinned as I looked at each other in agreement, and then said she stood up, "Adal and I are ready." Together we made our way up to the stage, and I was reminded yet again why I loved acting, remembering the times with Rory…

A few hours later…

After a morning of icebreaker games and reading the syllabus, it's time for the most nerve-wracking part of any first day....lunch.

I got my lunch tray, with a hearty meal along with salad, I began looking for my brother, only to find him with the rest of the Freshman athletes; I could practically smell the Axe body spray. Then nausea came back with vengeance, and with a disgusted shake of my head, I started looking around for a table to find one, I asked, "Hey, can I sit here?"

A blue-eyed girl who has long blonde hair and fair skin. She wears a wine-colored blouse and wears a unique silver band in her hair known as Mia Warren.

Mia responded, "Sorry, this table is for cheerleaders only."

Surprised by that, I asked, "Wait, really? I thought cheerleaders being cliquey was just something from the movies!"

The other girl has brown eyes, long brown hair, and fair skin. She wears a pink sweater over a white floral top and a necklace. That is Mia's girlfriend, Sydney Kym.

"Oh, no, it's nothing like that!" Sydney explained in shock, "It's squad bonding today, that's all."

I said in understanding, "Oh."

I backed up and looked around some more, to find another table where a girl with brown eyes, black hair, and tanned skin. She wears a gray dress sitting at the center, known as Maria Flores.

Maria perked up and asked me, "Hi there! Are you interested in joining the homecoming committee?"

I was taken aback and quite confused about what was happening, "Oh, um, maybe?" I said hesitantly. 

A guy with gray eyes, light brown hair, and fair skin. He wears a green bomber jacket over a black skull T-shirt, he taps me on the shoulder and he mouths at me, "No. you do not want to get involved in this!"

Changing my mind, I answered quickly, "Actually, I think I'm going to be too busy. Maybe next year." Or maybe not...

I shuffle away from the committee and look for somewhere else to sit, but nobody seems to have a seat for me besides the gremlins with me.

It's okay, Adal, it's only the first day. You won't be sitting alone forever...I was about to take a seat at an empty table when I saw Rory walking by with her tray with an easy smile on her pretty face.

Rory ambushed me by asking me, "Want to eat outside with me?"

Surprised, I asked while pointing at myself, "Huh? Are you talking to me?"

Rory smiled and responded, "Yeah, you. Come on, it's so nice out."

I smiled, nodded, and answered, "Okay sure."

I take my tray and follow Rory outside, as we both take a seat next to the tiger statue.

"So, Adal how are you liking high school so far?" Rory asked as she ate some food from her tray, leaning back from the table with a small smile on her face.

I pondered for a second and answered, "High school is…" pausing for a minute, "A real let down. I was expecting to take down at least one evil principal by now."

Rory rolled her eyes playfully, a shake of her head with a pretty smile on her face, and chuckled, "Ha. hate to say it, but I think the Faris scandal was once in a lifetime deal." Her green eyes twinkled with amusement.

I groaned, "Awwww…"

I lost my chance to make a forever mark in this high school!

Rory smiled amusemently at me and said, "Don't be too disappointed. It sounded a lot more fun on the news than it actually was."

I said sadly in a joking manner, "Dang, that was really the only part of high school I was looking forward to."

Rory chuckles and assures me, "You'll do fine, Adal. Just give yourself time to settle in." Rory being sweet again, is what made me fall for her all again.

I smiled, and said, "Thanks for the vote of confidence."

Rory seemed happy for some reason and prodded again, taking a sip of her juice, "And, hey, whenever happens, it can't be worse than middle school, right?"

I winced at the thought of middle school again.

I glared at her but it didn't even phase her at all, with quirked my lips as I said, "How do you know I didn't love middle school."

Rory answered, "Everyone hates middle school. It's a fact of life. The worst part is just different for everyone."

You got that right, no one is like me who got pregnant at almost the end of the middle school year.

"Maybe so." I chuckled awkwardly, "For me, the worst was…having Mr.Elenburg for gym…twice."

That surprised Rory that she had to ask, "Wait, what was wrong with Mr.Elenburg?"

I shrugged again, prodding my salad and spearing a blackberry with no mercy as I responded, "He hated me for no reason." It might be the fact that Mr.Elenburg is a massive religious dickhead that hates my guts for being pregnant out of wedlock.

Rory looked cute for being confused for a minute and asked again, "How do you know?"

I growled like I hated Mr.Elenburg so badly, "The prick gave me a 'C' in walking, Rory," then I exclaimed, "how does anyone get a 'C' in walking?"

Rory said, "No kidding." in a surprised manner, taking a bite of her salad.

I sighed to calm myself which Rory chuckles, then I asked her, "What about you, Rory? What was the worst part of middle school?"

Rory winced, most likely remembering how her mother's cancer had also taken a turn during that time period, "I could probably guess your least favorite part of it huh?" she reached for her juice again, her green eyes meeting mine as she answered softly, "I mean, my mom's health problems, but I guess that doesn't really count…" She stopped to think for a minute before smiling, "Braces, It has to be the Braces." Her shoulders slumped a little.

I scoffed, "What's wrong with braces? A ton of kids have them."

Rory gave a little dry chuckle, looking up as she did give me a smile, in a teasing manner, "Clearly you didn't. They hurt like hell. You can't eat anything, and brushing your teeth becomes an ordeal."

Well, it's good to know that braces are one of the evil things to have, I giggled a little, my lips pulling into a nice smile of my own and teased back to her, "Well, your smile looks good?"

Rory jokingly argued, "I'm not sure it was worth it."

I turn to my lunch tray and take a few sips of my juice.

I asked her, "So, Rory, where are your friends?"

Rory ignored that question and said, "We're friends, aren't we, Adal?"

It surprised me well that I had to respond, "Oh, I wasn't sure. I mean, we hung out a lot as kids but…" I looked at her green eyes, "..you know. It's been a while."

"Besides, I'm…" I trailed off, lost in her green eyes, "Not hot like you."

Rory seemed taken aback and didn't catch on to what I just said that she asked, "Say what?"

I finally followed what I said that I had to explain, "Oh! I mean, not that I think you're hot…or that I don't think you're hot…" finally stopping embarrassing myself even more.

Rory seemed to not mind it because she continued to smile and I continued to explain, "I've heard a lot of people here have crushes on you, and, well nobody's ever had a crush on me." 

Rory hummed before she said, "How can you be so sure? A lot of people keep their crushes secret…"

Well, I'm aware that nobody has an interest in me enough that want to be my friend or more than that, it is just Rory and Rosier are the only friends that I have.

"I'm pretty certain on this one." I said with certainty.

Rory flashes me a smile like she knows something that I don't.

Rory gently bumped her shoulder against my shoulder while she said, "You should stop being so down on yourself." she gave me a look of concern, a small frown on her face as her brows creased together.

I chuckle nervously, "Sorry…"

I shook my head, casting my eyes down again, and said, "I guess I'm just surprised that nobody besides me is sitting with you. I know you have other friends. I've seen them at your house."

Rory sighed, her look of worry didn't go away as she ran a hand through her brown hair before nodding toward the door, "I think a lot of them are still in the lunch line." Rory commented until she recognized some of them, "Actually, here comes some of them now!" She points to two students, a guy, and a girl, walking excitedly over to the table.

with brown hair, brown eyes, light skin, and freckles on his face. He wears a yellow and brown striped T-shirt with a black neckline and a black pocket on the right.

And a girl with shoulder-length black hair, brown eyes, and light skin. She wears a beige T-shirt with salmon sleeve cuffs and a salmon neckline. She started first, "Hi Rory! How was your summer? Did you get a new haircut?"

Then I looked over to the boy with brown hair, brown eyes, light skin, and freckles on his face. He wears a yellow and brown striped T-shirt with a black neckline and a black pocket on the right. He started after the girl, "Did you go anywhere? I got you this sand dollar from the beach!"

Rory happily said, "Hey, Natalie, Clint! Thank you, I did, and thank you, I love sand dollars. I was just headed outside. The two of you are very welcome to come along."

Natalie giggles coquettishly while Clint blushes.

Clint asked, "Mind if we sit with you?"

Rory being the friendly she is, said, "Go for it."

Then Natalie noticed me next to Rory and asked, "Who's the new girl?"

I introduced myself, "I'm Adal, I'm a fresh—" 

But Natalie cuts me off, "Nice meeting you, Adal!" as she immediately turns back to Rory.

Natalie excitedly said, "Ohmygosh, Rory, the funniest thing happened this morning during gym class. We were playing dodgeball, and…."

Between Natalie and Clint, I was barely able to get a word in for the rest of lunch, at least I was able to snack more food on my tray, I was able to be sneaky and steal some food from Rory while she was busy with two chatterboxes. I didn't notice that Rory saw that, she smiled and didn't do anything about it.

After what felt like an eternity while snacking on food and rubbing my gremlins underneath my sweatshirt to calm down the kickings, until finally the bell rings, I prepared to leave for my fifth-period class.

Until Clint asked me, "Hey, Adal, you're trying out for the play today, right?" looking at me.

I smiled and answered, "I am."

And Natalie joins in, "So are we! See you there!" The two of them run off toward the trash cans with their trays.

Then Rory turned her attention back on me while she asked me, "Aren't they fun?"

I said, "They certainly are…" trying to think of one that wouldn't make Rory mad at me, "..Energetic."

Rory replied, "It's the first day of school. They usually a little calmer," she paused for a minute, "but only a little."

Rory looked a little disappointed but managed to be cheerful as she said, "Listen I know we didn't get to talk as much as you might have liked, but we'll have our chances. Especially since you're auditioning for the play."

I said sadly, "Are you sure?"

Rory said seriously, "I promise." she put her hand on my shoulder, "And, Adal, if there's anything you need, just let me know. I've been here for a year now, so I like to think I know my way around."

I felt my heart tang for a minute and said, "Rory…thank you. That means a lot."

Then I jokingly said, "If you ever need help from a freshman, I've got you covered."

Rory chucked and said, "You never know, I might need to borrow some cartoon character pencils."

Rory started to collect her trash into her lunch tray as before quickly stealing my tray before I could. "I got it," she said.

I smiled at that, standing up from the table before crossing her arms, "You know I can clean up after myself?" I spoke in a teasing tone.

Rory shrugged, after dumping the trash and leaving the trays in a bin. I always forgot how much taller she actually was, she was a few inches taller than Rosier and I.

Rory said, "Well, Adal, it was really nice sitting with you even though you kept stealing my food, but I need to get to class."

I was surprised that my sneaking attempts were discovered, I sheepishly said, "I'm not sorry for that but I'll see you at auditions, though?"

She cheerfully said, "Of course. Break a leg!" I wave goodbye as she heads out the door toward class.

After school…

I see that I'm one of the first people at auditions. In fact, the only other person I see is a boy with black hair, brown eyes, and light brown skin. He wears a beige suit over a dark red button-up shirt, a pair of black pants, a pair of glasses, and a watch on his left wrist.

He near the stage, furiously marking up a copy of a script. I take a deep breath, straighten my clothes but not much due to my gremlins a secret, and approach him.

I asked clearly and strongly, with my shoulders back and a smile on my face, "Hi there! I'm Adal. Is this where auditions are?"

The boy looks up from the script, he doesn't look even happy at all.

"It said so on the door." he said simply. 

Yes, It did say on the door but it's helpful to make sure that it's not misplaced or placed in the wrong room, it happens all the time in middle school.

I kept on smiling, taking in his professional appearance and the fact he was a bit sarcastic, "Are you Ajay, the director? I heard about you from Erin." I said with a hopeful tone.

Ajay said, "That's me." I reach out to offer him a handshake.

"It's so nice to meet you. It's my first—" I said but was cut off by Ajay lightly pushing my hand away and shaking his head.

"What is it?" I asked, feeling downcast by that he didn't seem to be friendly in return.

Ajay pushed his glasses up with his free hand, the other holding onto the script he had been working on as he said, "Don't take this personally, but I don't really have the time," He maintained his tone as he further explained, "This is by far the most ambitious production I've ever directed, and that means I need to give it my full attention."

My smile finally slipped as I listened to him, bowed my head a little, "Sorry…" I wrung my hands, "I didn't mean to bother you." I dejectedly said.

Ajay nodded his head, and said with the same plain expression, "Thank you. But you're actually still bothering me, Adal."

Then a girl with long brown hair with bangs, brown eyes, and tan skin. She wears a faded black jacket with pockets on both sides over a white dress with a floral pattern.

She came forward to us, and said with a sneer, "Oh, Ajay, go easy on the girl. She's just trying to introduce herself."

Ajay barely turned back towards her and exasperatedly said, "Danielle, please. I can forgive interruptions from a freshman, but you of all people should know better." was a little haughty about it, as he started working on the script again.

I can tell they tend to dislike each other by the mood in the air.

Danielle just chuckled and said, "How about this? Adal can help me set up the stage, and you can take a chill pill." 

Ajay didn't glance up as he marked away, "Lovely idea." He irritatedly said. 

Danielle nodded, turned towards the stage, and said happily, "Come with me, Adal."

I followed Danielle backstage, where a few techs were sorting things.

Danielle paused for a moment before smiling again, "Pardon my asking, but do you live next door to Rory Silva?"

That was a strange question to ask but I answered, "I do!"

Danielle smiled and explained with a wave of her hand, "I thought I recognized you. You're out in the backyard a lot when I'm over," she turned around to face me, "welcome to the theatre department." I let out a breath that I didn't realize it was holding.

"Thanks. You and Rory are friends, then?" I asked as we paused off to the side, out of the way from everyone else while I was trying to be friendly.

Danielle responded, "Oh, yeah. For a few years now. We've had theatre class together since middle school, actually."

I was surprised a little, Rory had never brought her up and I commented lightly, "Oh! You must be really good."

Danielle shrugged, seemed to be proud of herself, and said, "I like to think so. But enough about that. Ajay's going to kill me if he hears us gossiping about Rory rather than getting the stage ready." Right, that is what we are here for. 

"So what do you need me to do?" I asked her.

Danielle walked towards a large grouping of props and set pieces and explained, "There's supposed to be a black theatre cube, big enough to sit on around here somewhere. Could you take a look around?"

"You got it." I said.

I look around backstage for ten minutes of searching, but everything fitting Danielle's description turns out to be an equipment case. I am just about to give up hope when Rory comes in.

Yay, my savior!

"Hey, um, do you know of any other place where props and stuff might be stored besides backstage?" I asked her.

Rory had to think about it for a minute before and answered, "Try the prop room by the door." she smiled at me before rushing off towards the stage.

I find a room near the theatre exit full of old furniture and props.

"This has to be the place. Let's see....theatre cube....theatre cube....where art thou black cube?" I said in a puzzled manner.

 I scan the room until I suddenly spot it by the door!

"There you are, theatre cube! You're coming with me." I said out loud myself.

By the time I get the cube back to the auditorium and set it in place, several other students are there for auditions, as well as Mr.Olson. I later joined the other students by the seats.

"Well, I guess this is it," a girl said, with brown eyes, long curly black hair on her shoulders, slightly tan, wearing a bare shoulder white crop blouse with short blue jeans that screams summer fling and black Converse shoes. 

The black-haired girl said, "I'll text you later." facing another girl with gray eyes, long blonde hair, and fair skin. She wears a white and black striped V-neck T-shirt with black pants and light teal shoes.

"Break a leg, Bellatrix," the blond girl replied, giving her a hug.

"I want you so bad that I love you, so much." Bellatrix said.

The couple kissed goodbye, and then I watched the blond girl leave the auditorium as Bellatrix waved goodbye and walked up to Mr.Olson and Ajay.

"I'm ready whenever you are." Bellatrix announced, and Mr.Olson tried to get others to settle down so he could speak for everyone to hear clapped to get everyone's attention.

"Good afternoon, everyone! I hope you all had great first days of school. Welcome to auditions for The Enchanted Kingdom," He spoke clearly and loudly so even I was sitting close to the back could hear him, "I'm Mr.Olson, the theatre teacher. I'm technically in charge, but most of the directing will be handled by our student director, Ajay." He explained before taking a step back, allowing Ajay to step forward.

Ajay looked as if he had been doing this for years with how easy and calm he appeared, "Thanks, Mr. Olson," Ajay replied, standing up. "Now, as you may know, the proceeds from this show are going to help a local family pay for cancer treatment." 

That is so nice of them! 

Ajay continued, "I expect you all to behave maturely and remember that this is for the greater good. Understood?" I noticed that as he spoke about the cancer treatment his eyes strayed to the crowd, maybe to convey how serious he was about the entire show.

Mutters of 'yes' come from the crowd as everyone nods their heads in agreement.

Ajay paused to allow his words to sink in before continuing once more, "Good, Now, I've given Bellatrix permission to go first so that she can get to football practice. Rory, would you be so kind as to read with her?"

"No problem," Rory replied as they both stepped up onto the stage with the scripts.

"Start at the top of page 67 whenever you're ready," Ajay directed them.

Rory asked in character with confidence and grace, "I know it's just a title, but since I did save your life, would you mind giving me my knighthood back?" She paused allowing a small smile to pull at her lips, "It's…kind of a personal thing."

"It would be an honor," Bellatrix replied in character, giving her a nod of her head, motioning towards the theatre cube, "Kneel before this rock." She waited until Rory kneeled in front of the theater cube, which served as a rock, and then Bellatrix tried to step up onto it when—The cube slid out from under her, sending her flying!

"WHOA!" Bellatrix said.

"Bellatrix!" Rory yelled, moving to catch her but wasn't quick enough, Bellatrix landed on her leg.

"Owwww…I think it's…" Bellatrix whined as Mr.Olson was the first one who came over to take a look. I peek at Bellatrix's right leg and flinch, the thigh is twisted at an unnatural angle.

"Aaaagh.." Bellatrix starts to sob from the pain.

"There's no way that's not broken. I'll call an ambulance." Mr.Olsen said.

"I'll go get the school nurse," Erin said urgently as she ran out to get the nurse.

A few minutes later, Bellatrix was sent to the hospital, slowly Natalie asked Mr.Olson, "Does this mean she can't do the show?" Her voice was quiet and soft, brows creased in worry.

Mr.Olson nodded sadly, running a worn hand down his weathered face, and answered, "I'm afraid so." He sighed with a shake of his head.

 Ajay just groaned deeply, "Damn it! We just lost one of our most promising actors!" Ajay angrily said.

Shocked by his comment, Danielle spoke up, "I don't think—"

"Do you know how hard it is to find a good ingenue at a school this small?" Ajay snapped at her.

"Ajay, Bellatrix just broke her leg and that's what you're worried about?" I snapped at him, shocked at how he acted like that when Bellatrix's injured.

"I…hate to admit, but you're right. I just don't want to let anyone down." Ajay finally came to his senses and felt remorse for how he acted.

Then, Rory who had been by Bellatrix's side as they waited for the EMTs, placed a hand on his shoulders with a tight smile, and sadly said, "You won't. We'll get through this," She patted him softly, "And we'll find someone else for the part, I promise."

Danielle also slowly spoke, "And, it's a shame about the broken leg, but it'll heal. And it's nobody's fault." As she explained, I could not help to notice the girl giving me a bit of a side-eye; no one to blame, right? As she was trying to cheer up the morale.

"Right." Ajay said.

Natalie asked, "So what now?"

Mr.Olson suggested calmly, "Well, the show must go on....or, well, the audition." He takes the theatre cube and rolls it off the stage. 

"Let's not use this again." He mumbled, vanishing towards the prop room.

Ajay then turned towards the rest of the students before loudly commanding, "And let this be a lesson to all of you. Never stand on something with swivel wheels! That cube is for sitting!"

Mr.Olson said, "Thank you, Ajay. I'm sure none of us will forget again."

Ajay takes a deep breath and adjusts his glasses as he says, "Right."

For the next couple of hours, Ajay and Mr.Olson call people up to read in different combinations.

Clint said in character, "Bye mye powher, aye herebye dub thee Lady Eve, ohffishial knyght and prohtectohr of Prince Abraham." With a weird accent that Clint managed to add into.

"Clint, could you please start over, without the accent this time?" Ajay exasperatedly said. 

"I'm not doing it on purpose, I swear! It's just a habit from Alice in Wonderland." Clint defends himself.

I asked myself in surprise, "Wait, that was supposed to be British?"

"Will you marry me?" Danielle said in character.

"Why, Lady Eve—" she couldn't keep in character, "—Haha, oh HA!" Erin trails off laughing.

I quietly chuckle at Erin's humor.

Mr.Olson sounded tired and said, "Erin…"

Erin looked at Mr.Olson and said, "Sorry, You know I can't do romance with a straight face."

Natalie yelled in character, "THIS KINGDOM WOULD HAVE BEEN MINE HAD YOUR FATHER KEPT HIS PROMISE!"

I winced at the loud shouting, as Mr.Olson said in shock, "While screaming is an interesting choice, it's not really the direction we're going for."

Natalie said sadly, "I thought you wanted me to work on projecting more…"

"Maybe not...that much…" Ajay pointed out.

After a couple of hours, it feels like Mr.Olson and Ajay have called up every combination of people possible.

"Are we free to go soon? I need to pick up my mother from an appointment." Rory with a frown, said concernedly. 

Catching the teacher's attention, Mr.Olson answered, "Just a few more minutes. There's actually one more combination of people I'd like to see."

Mr.Olson nodded his head before leaning down and whispering to whispers something into Ajay's ear.

Ajay cocked his brow, "You think so? Well, we can have them try it." Ajay said, feeling certain of it, "Let's read the scene starting on page 24. Rory, you read for the knight. Danielle, you're the princess. Adal, witch." He called out, leaning back in his chair.

Danielle smiled, "Awesome."

I turn the script to the right page and get ready to read as I said in character, The witch was a vile person filled with darkness and rage, I tapped into my place of anger, my middle school bully for example, "This kingdom would have been mine had your father kept his promise!"

Danielle replied smoothly, almost bored in character that sounded a bit off, "No, half the kingdom would have been yours had you kept your promise!"

Rory took a step forward, a hand on her hip where her sword would be, and said in character, "Never show your face here again, or Princess Abagail and I will make sure you regret it!"

Ajay motions to cut me off, with a nod of his head he begins to make notes again before turning to Mr.Olson again, who nods once more.

"Thank you." Ajay said.

Mr.Olson said, "Well done, all of you."

"Thanks. I've always thought Rory and I worked well together." Danielle said with a little subtle of smug.

"Now, could you continue on, but with Danielle as the witch and Adal as the princess?" Ajay said, ignoring Danielle as he steeped his fingers as he leaned on the table.

"Really?" I asked in surprise. 

Danielle's face scrunches up for a split second, as if into a scowl, but she quickly hides it as she says, "Interesting idea. Okay."

The two of us switch places on stage and start the scene again.

Danielle gave me a cold stare as we passed. Her smile was wide as she began playing the Witch, "Brave words. But you're forgetting the powers I possess," Danielle said in character with a cackle bringing her hands up and muttering, "Wormswood, bane, and sinner's bile, Hatch dreadful designs unto this child. To sow your Majesty's regret, The knight's pure love he'll soon forget." She rhymed easily, bringing her hands down to her sides with a sick grin.

To stay in character, my eyes fill with tears as I take in the effect of the spell. She reached out to Rory.

I spun on my heel to face Rory taking a step away from them both, she caused her body to shiver with a thought, her hand reaching out towards Rory with a few whispered words, "My love…" I said with a heartbroken emotion.

It surprised Rory really well that she broke off the character, "No! Prince Abraham, I—"

Ajay motions to cut Rory off.

"Thank you." Ajay said, seeming really happy for some reason, he tapped on the table a few times as he scratched away in his little notebook.

Mr.Olson said, "Nice work all around."

I asked, "Does that mean I got the part?" not knowing how the audition works.

"We'll announce the cast list tomorrow. Before then…" Ajay answers as he looks at Mr.Olson, "Mr.Olson and I have a lot to consider. Everyone's dismissed."

We all left the stage, and out in the hallway, I saw Rory come up to me.

Rory seems really surprised that she tells me, "Wow, Adal, that was some great work!" She looked at me, smiling proudly, "I wouldn't be at all surprised if you were cast as the princess."

I rubbed my arm with a bashful smile, feeling embarrassed, "Thanks, but…" turning to a depressed moment, "I still feel really bad about Bellatrix." I said.

Rory shook her head and she assured me, "That was a shame, but it wasn't your fault, and I'm sure Bellatrix will be fine. It couldn't have been that bad fall."

But it didn't work at all to help me feel better.

"I still feel bad." I mumbled lowly hanging my head and slumping my shoulders.

Rory gave me an easy side hug that was an easier way she wouldn't notice that I'm pregnant and said, "Look on the bright side. You rocked that audition, and now you might be a lead in the play."

I grin, "You're right."

Rory said, "Hey, if you get the princess and I get the knight, then we'll be co-stars!"

"That would be so much fun, Like the old times when we'd play pretend together." I grinned.

Rory smiled and said, "Well, Adal, I do have to get going, but I'm so excited for you."

"Thanks, Rory." I tell her.

Rory waves goodbye and heads for the parking lot. Then I head to my locker to pack up my bag when I hear someone walk up behind me. I turn and see Danielle.

Danielle said, "Hey, really nice job reading for the witch today." her smile dripped with sarcasm.

"Gee, thanks…everyone knows the villain parts are the best." I tell her without giving her any satisfaction.

Danielle smirks.

"Glad you think so. I think it'll really be a chance for you to shine." Danielle said.

"Of course, we won't know for sure until tomorrow." I commented, remembering that Mr.Olson and Ajay will be posting the cast list tomorrow.

"Best of luck. Really, I mean it." Danielle said sweetly that which even for an actor didn't look all that believable.

Is she threatening me?!

I growled, "I'm sure you do."

Danielle said, "Oh, and I'm really sorry about what happened with Bellatrix. But don't worry what anyone says. It could've happened to anyone." She not acting being subtle about it.

I bit confused about what she meant by that but I know for sure it's nothing good.

"what's that supposed to mean?!" I asked sternly.

"Oh…nothing." Danielle said mysteriously, as She gave me a slightly too‐wide grin before strutting away.

I couldn't help but get the feeling that maybe there was something that I was missing, with a sigh. Oh boy...What have I gotten myself into? I banged my forehead against the locker as my gremlins decided to use my kidneys as a soccer ball.

Next time on High School Story: Ajay posts the cast list…but did Adal get the lead, or did Danielle?