Welcome to my world

Parents are supposed to be nurturing, strict, present and damn as hell rational. So, what in the world possessed my father to adopt that, that …

I sighed heavily, trying to compose myself. But, it was so difficult. A new school, a new house; a strangers home and Satan’s own underling recruited into my dwindled family.

How joyous my life has become.

Trying to clear my thoughts of the insufferable man and his newfound daughter, I slid a C.D into the built in stereo and jumped a little from the blaring sound. Once used to the level of the music, the rage and annoyance slowly started ebbing away.

By the time I had reached Praeawood Manor, I was more than a little late to my father’s dinner.

”They can all wait.” I muttered to myself, before turning off the music and rolling down the window of my yellow mini cooper convertible.

Leaning over and pushing the button, I greeted the little intercom.

”Hello, I’m Jewel LeGrey the daughter of Patrick LeGrey. I was expected to arrive for dinner.” It wasn’t supposed to come out rushed and sounding like I was nervous.

Not until the tall, imposing gothic gate creaked open did I realise that, heck I was nervous and my sweaty hands gripping the wheel tightly was a sure sign.

Beyond the gate, looked like Eden. It’s so unusual that I would be so captivated by another rich person’s grounds. Not that I’m boasting that I’m rich or anything of the sort, but I’ve seen my own share of intricately designed gardens. But some how, this one beat them all.

A middle aged butler was waiting for me in front of the massive doors. Getting out of my car, I trod to his position and embarrassedly placed my keys into his awaiting palm.

”Sorry” I mumbled; acknowledging the difference in time from my greeting to my appearance.

I inwardly groaned.

Stupid, Stupid, Stupid.

Why did you have to drive so slowly that your car was barely a crawl?

Curse you stupid gardens. Curse you and your beauty.

Someone tapped my shoulder, immediately ceasing my ranting thoughts.

Whirling around, I came face to face with…

My heart stopped.

“It can’t be.” I whispered softly.

“Oh, my freakin’ gosh.” The person squeaked in disbelief, just inches from my face.

In a flash faster then lighting arms engulfed me and the girl in front of me squealed in delighted amazement.

“Jelly, it’s you. It’s really you.”

Her emotions rapidly changed and she began sobbing.

”I’m sorry Jelly. We had to move. Daddy said it was good for the business, for his future. I didn’t want to go. I missed you. We missed you.”

I patted a head of curly brown locks with shaking fingers.

Sera Haviero: two years my junior and all grown up. She used to be one of my playmates when we were just young; before the devastating event that changed my life. Then she was gone.

When your six years old and your closes friends disappear, whatever reason anyone tells you is not going to change the fact that you’re lonely; that you blame them.

But it was little Sera standing in front of me. All made up and girly.

She is innocent, I remind myself. She didn’t do anything wrong.

I think back to those years and realise that I can’t be mad at her, not at a four year old girl.

Smiling, I returned her embrace.

“I guess you live her, right?”

Mascara stained the underside of her eyes and she sniffed. “Yes”

“Show me to your humble abode.” I swept my arm through the air, imitating grace and poise.

She raised an eyebrow and laughed.

”Humble? You think this Mansion is humble?”

“It’s called sarcasm darling, you should try it sometime.” I continued with the English accent and dragged her through the doors.

However I stopped abruptly just after taking a few steps in what looked like a foyer.

“Aren’t you supposed to be at dinner?”

Sera laughed. “Do you even know what time it is?”

My eyebrows crinkled. “No.” I mumbled embarrassedly.

“Dinner was finished ages ago.”

Pulling out a sleek black mobile phone she glanced at the digital numbers.

”10 o’clock, on the rocket clock.”

“Come inside, it’s play school.” I sang back to her.

We both laughed. “The good old days”

“Hi Sera”

A familiar plastic, cheery voice greeted.

I stopped and glared.

Leiel glared back daring me to say something.

But, she was the first to back down.

“Your house is beautiful, you know? And, I like your clothing sense.”

I rolled my eyes. It’s so impossible not too.

“Sycophant” I stated.

“Satan whore.”

Then I laughed.

“Funny, I think the same think about you.”

Sera, feeling the tension directed me away.

“Bye, Leiel.” She threw over her shoulder as we began ascending some stairs.

The stairs led to the first level and my anger dissolved away. The hallway was just too… serene: with its yellow walls, marvellous water colours and floral decorations.

My gaze was stopped short when Sera began to talk.

”What happened to you? You’re so … black.”

I laughed. “It’s my disguise. I’m attracted to vampires and decided this was the best way to help them notice me. You think its working?”

She shrugged. “I don’t know. I’ve just seen you now. Remember.”

I was about to reply embarrassedly but she cut me off.

“Which means you have to sleep in my room? We so need to catch up.” Her blue eyes lit up mischievously and she gave me a cheeky grin.

“But, first I think you need to get reacquainted with everyone.”

I had not noticed that we had stopped in front of oak double doors. With a turn of the rose designed knob, she pushed the door open.

The room looked more formal and forbidding with its dark décor. My father was lounging on a stormy, grey leather recliner facing the unlit fire. Sitting opposite him in a matching chair drinking Shiraz was Juan Haviero.

His curly brown tendrils now speckled with whiffs of white and his face marred with defined laugh lines.

“I found her.” Sera stated triumphantly.

Everyone turned to our direction.

The sound on the flat screened television softened and Marielle Haviero peered at me, a toddler clinging to her.

My smile quivered for a moment and ignored that desperate need for a mother.

“Jelly, you’re still as beautiful as ever.” Mimi said, giving the little boy to his dad. She gracefully walked over to me and engulfed me into a warm hug.

“Mom” Sera whined.

“You’re suffocating the poor girl.”

Mimi laughed joyously and let me go. “I’m sorry, darling. I just haven’t seen you in such a long time.”

“Well, Jewels, I’d like you to meet the new addition to our family.” Juan stated cheerfully.

“This little man is Kore.”

“Kore?” Hearing his name the little chubby boy of about three years of age smiled shyly at me. His little hands came up to cover his dark blue eyes.

Juan smiled and walked toward me.

“I know what you’re thinking, that his going to get teased in school. But,”

I cut him off. “Isn’t it a girl’s name?”

“Patrick, your little girl is too clever for her own good.” Juan chuckled lightly.

Sera looked at me, her eyes wide with astonishment. “Jelly, are you alright? It’s such a manish name. Doesn’t it just scream to you ‘MAN’?”

A small smile crept to my lips.

“Kore was the daughter of Demeter and was perused by Hades and was later known as Persephone the Queen of the underworld: wife to Hades.”

What a nerd. I laughed at myself for giving them the brief information about Kore. With pink stained cheeks I added. “It’s a nice name, very manish”

Juan roared with laughter, “You got a historian in the making, Pat. You know his name would have been Persephone, but Nicholas would not allow it. Where is that boy anyway?”

For the second time that night, my heart skipped a beat.

Nicholas Haviero was my best’s friend in the whole wide world. That was before we had that massive fight. I can still remember his voice and those icy words. Shaking my head quickly to rid myself of those bad memories, I returned to listen back to the conversation.

“Ice cream, he wanted to take Leiel out for ice cream. Well that’s what he said when I came from his room.” Sera stated too exuberantly for my liking.

He can hang out with anyone, even if she was Satan’s bride.

I didn’t know what to say. What could I have said? That I didn’t want to see him or that we weren’t friends?

“Are you cold dear?” Mimi’s voice asked gently.

“Yes, is it alright if Sera should me to my room? I think its past my bedtime.” I tried to accomplish a smile, but I failed and ended up with a small scowl.

My room was just comfortable, so luxurious. A king sized bed, with a pale yellow downed comforter, matching pillow cases for the Euro pillows, normal pillows and the ones that looked like large sausages.

I moved toward a door on the left hand side of the room. The room’s resemblance to a hotel room made me anticipate for a large adjoining bathroom with a wall to floor mirror and spa. My small inflated happy bubble got pierced when I walked in, to find a small walk in wardrobe.

Oh well. I guess I girl can’t have everything.

My things were all in place.

A small bookcase to the right of the balcony door held my favourite books, my grandmother’s jewellery box and an assortment of my treasures.

Even though it irked me to know that someone actually rummaged through my things and could have read or looked at some of my private thoughts and pictures; I had to commend them on the presentation.

“Why are most of your clothes black?” Sera asked hotly.

She had somehow found the light switch and was pushing aside my rescued garments sniffing occasionally.

“Sera” I stated exasperated.

“My house became a circus prop and was the main entertainment; Le Blaze.”

“I know, but did you have to leave all your coloured clothes?”

When I was young, I loved wearing bright colours. My favourite colour was yellow, but I didn’t mind wearing anything else, besides black that is. It was such a scary colour; it reminded me of the dark. I hate the dark.

How things can change in an instant.

“All the pretty things were left behind. It’s not like I could carry everything or that I had the time.” Goodness, now I’m just being snappy.

Trudging to the bed, I flopped down with a mouthful of pillow.

“Tired” I said. But, I don’t think that’s what she heard.

“Gagur” Sera mimicked cheekily.

“Fine, I’ll leave you alone. Tomorrow is a new day.” She said brightly.

Moaning disheartened, I turned over just as the door closed with a click.

School; where you’re thrown into a system that promotes unity and conformity. But, actually contains a variety of different social cliques. Trying to survive not losing your identity with being labelled as such and such is not the only thing that would drive you into insanity. Teachers are crazy motherfuckers, who thing it’s their duty to shove countless amount of information into your brain and expect you to soak it all up. How delightful.

I know that Chasten Heights Senior is like an hour away, but, did he have to enrol me into a new school, in the beginning of second term.

Dear God, what’s wrong with him. How the hell am I going to cope?

Curses and more curses.

Those thoughts suddenly made me drowse and with a last mutter of “brain drain”, I feel asleep.

“Rise and shine Dorothy?” A chirpy voice started.

Closing my eyes and snuggling deeper into bed, I’d hoped the voice would take the hint and leave.

But, to my anger and disappointment my prayers were not answered and blinding light filled the room when the curtain was ripped apart.

Moaning and covering my eyes I rolled to one side and found my self stumbling out of bed and walking right into a wall.

“Fuck and ouch.” I grumbled to myself.

To my annoyance a laugh burst from across the room.

“What do you want Sera?” I asked harshly while rubbing my head.

“Someone’s a little grumpy this morning.” She sang.

“Stupid morning people with sunflowers on their heads.” I groaned.

“And her wits are gone.” Tutting and shaking her head she moved to the closet and began choosing my… outfit?

This girl has become too cheerful for her own good.

“Shouldn’t you be getting ready? Putting on some make-up? Leaving me along?”

Take the bait little girly, take the bait. She pulled out a black tank and black shorts.

“This looks normal.” She stated.

I sighed. I guess she didn’t.

“If I wear this, no more clothing tips. Got it?” I didn’t even let her answer.

“Good.”

Grabbing the articles of clothing and my underwear, I strode purposely out the door and then stopped. Hoping for a brilliant exit, that was not to come; I returned haughtily and asked for directions to the bathroom.

Smiling, Sera was more then happy to give them to me.

“Out the door, turn right follow the corridor till you passed three doors and it should be the second door on the right.”

“What in the world?” I muttered confusedly.

“All aboard.”

Sera pulled my arm and began dragging me to the bathroom.

This girl is on something. I’m sure of it.

There was no point in trying to figure out which door it was, they all looked the same.

We stopped in front of a door. She turned the knob, opened the door and shoved me in.

“Breakfast starts in 30 minutes. Thanking for boarding with Sera airlines. Have a nice day and we hope to see you again.”

With that said she moved along humming to herself.

“Alrighty then. That girl has too much energy, or sugar.”

Just go back where you came from and you will somehow get there or meet someone on the way.

I had no clue where in the house the dinning room was located and I am getting very hungry.

The sounds coming from my stomach proved it.

It should be on the ground level, shouldn’t it?

I found my way back to my room, but from there onward I was completely lost.

Couldn’t even concentrate when you were being lead the way.

So, stupid.

I found myself going down a couple of flights of stairs and just wandering around thinking it was ground level; or at least somewhere near it.

Turning a corner I found myself looking into a courtyard through a glass wall. My eyes were taking in the scenery, but my feet continued to walk.

“Shit” I muttered to myself.

My body had just collided itself with a … door?

“Are you alright?” A male voice inquired.

“Does it look like I’m alright?” I replied haughtily.

“Someone’s testy this morning.” He said.

Abruptly stopping my rubbing on my poor forehead I glared up at the stupid boy. Anger surged through my body and my heart rate increased.

“Nicholas.” I whispered in a hiss.

Pushing past him, I continued on my lost wanderings. But, he just started to follow me. What a dog.

I rounded a corner and started to smell a faint hint of pancakes. All the care in the world dissolved as I was overwhelmed with hunger. No point in thinking about it, no point in wasting my time.

This must be a whole level of freaking courtyard. I could see everyone sitting in a long mahogany table. Pushing the door open I entered and rushed to the empty sit next to Sera.

Above the table was a rectangle with a design of metal leaves. I must have looked silly with my head staring up. Hanging attached in the centre of the rectangle was a dark gothic chandelier.

“Where have you two gotten off to?” Juan asked suggestively as Nicholas took the seat in front of me.

“Lost” I muttered, while forking a pancake onto my plate.

I could feel him starting at me. Looking up I gave another glare and began to eat.

“So, Jewels, you and Leiel will be going to St. Sebastians today.” Juan said with a smile.

I didn’t reply, but Leiel gushed with praise.

“What an honour it is to be attending a prestigious school. Mama couldn’t afford to send me to anything private so I’m very grateful Sir.” She said a hint of a blush creeping into her cheeks.

Tuning out of the conversation, I sat munching on everything in front of me.

“Your little one still has an appetite. How amazing she can fit that much in.” Mimi said pleasantly, snapping me back into the conversation.

“I love food.” I stated with a smile.

“Um… what time does school start?” I asked after taking a sip of water.

“In thirty minutes.” Sera announced.

“You all ready?” She asked getting up and looking down at my empty plate.

“Come on my pretty.” Sera stated,

“Is she always like this?” I asked no one in particular.

Mimi laughed “No, she’s much worse.” She replied jokingly.

Standing up, I move and pushing my chair in.

“I can take you two as well to school.” Nicholas offered.

“No thanks.” I replied, before anyone else can answer. I’m not going to torture myself with being in the same car with the both of them. No indeed, just saving myself from the awkward silences.

“I’m going with Jelly, so she knows the way and gets used to the place.”

Tugging my arm we left and Sera directed me to her room.

Mum, told us yesterday morning that you guys would be staying here for a while and all about the fire. So, I went shopping yesterday and bought you guys some school stuff. I love shopping and stationary.”

Rushing off to one side cheerfully, she came back with a highlighter pink Roxy bag.

“It’s blinding.” I replied.

“You don’t like it?” She asked disappointed.

I’m not ungrateful or anything it was just not my style. It’s like in the movies when someone’s old granny gives them an ugly jumper. They don’t like it but they say thanks. I guess it’s the thought that counts.

“Thank you.” She brightened.

“I even got you books and pens and all that kind of paraphernalia.”

I gave her a weird look. “Paraphernalia?”

“It means stuff, silly.” She had the audacity to giggle.

Rolling my eyes, I didn’t even bother.

“Come on we might be late.”

“Why does it not have a uniform?” I asked curiously.

“They are trying to promote adult learning. They think that as young adults we are able to make our own choices for clothing.”

“So what is the extreme?”

“We’ll there are these skanky looking girls.”

“That’s filthy, and they don’t get into trouble?”

She shrugged. “Nope. Most of the students are wealth, and not all of them are stupid; they just do stupid things.”

Arriving at the parking spot, I was lucky enough to find parking close to the entrance.

“This spot is taken.” Sera said mischievously.

Rolling my eyes I stated. “I don’t see a name on it.”

She giggled and pointed to a sign. “I think you might need glasses Jelly.”

“A hell, just screw it. I’m the new kid it should be alright.”

“Maybe.” Sera said with a frown.

Grabbing my bag I came out and leaned on my car appraising the buildings. The structure looked like a replica of a Lord’s house in the 16th Century. How posh, I thought. Hopefully that’s just the buildings because if it was embodied by the students, what a pain in the arse that would be.

With a push of a button, the car was locked and alarmed.

Sera decided to be responsible for me, even though she was only 15. We were quite early, but Sera thought it would be better to go to administration first and then to show me around. Following behind her was actually quite difficult. I was a head taller then her and the shampoo in her waist length her was too strong and was tickling my nose. I was caught between either, laughing or sneeze.

A lot of people seemed to know Sera because most of those we passed by would stop and greet her. Once we left I could hear their whispers of ‘who is that’ and ‘why is she hang out with Sera?’

Sera didn’t seem to hear them or ignored them without even a batt of an eyelash; her cheerfulness stayed. I wonder how she would be when she is angry. What fun would that day be?

After a long time we had finally reached the foyer of the office.

“Hello Sera, how are you today?” The young receptionist asked.

“Fine: my long lost best friend is coming to this school now.” She replied enthusiastically.

Wow, this girl is even buddy buddy with the staff.

“What’s your name love?” She asked.

“Jewel LeGrey.”

She began typing away and then bingo. Her hands stopped.

“Found it.”

I tried to suppress a smile, because it gave me a feeling of de je vu.

“Just have a seat and the principle will greet you once she’s ready.” Getting up from her sitting position she moved to another room, where the hum of the photocopier could be heard.

We sat on a wooden bench to the left of the door.

“You don’t have to stay you know.”

“But Jelly, you might get lost or hangout with the wrong crowd.” Her voice changed to a whisper. “There are not much of them but they do exist. This is like any typical school and there are those that you should be careful of.”

I nodded solemnly and decided to go along with it. However, I think I’d be able to take care of myself. Doesn’t mean it wasn’t recorded that it didn’t happen. People can be such a pain the arse and a person can take so much. The idea is to do the deed and not to get caught; and I hardly ever did. Only evidence is the bruises on my opponents arms and face.

“Jewel LeGrey.” A short middle aged woman stated, interfering with our conversation.

“Bye, don’t worry I should be able to find my way.” I turned and followed her to her office.

“Welcome to Saint Sebastians. Please take a seat.” She motioned to the leather swivel chair.

Obeying, I sat down and popped my bag onto my lap.

“I’m Mrs. Mills.” She peered at me from the tops of her glasses. Again I didn’t say anything. What for? She already knows my name, probably most of my life story with it.

“Let’s get down to business. We normally do not accept students around this time. However, due to your circumstances we made an exception for you and Leiel.”

Now were just charity cases. Just, great.

“We received your records from your previous school. I must commend you on your impeccable grades. However this school prides itself in the student’s commitment to our extra curricular activities. I’ve contacted your past teachers for references and background information on your studies and they all agree that you lack the enthusiasm for school spirit. Extra curricular activities are very important as they illustrate your commitment, abilities to work in a team, leadership and co-operation. These are qualities that stand out in your resume or in your application to university. I will be expecting you to join at least three different activities.”

Fuck. Three; I’m not a bloody robot. Unconsciously I frowned.

“I know three might sound a lot but, since you have not participated in your previous school I think it’s necessary. I’ve also checked on the progress of your subjects. The curriculum of your previous school does not coincide with this one. Thus I have assigned you with a tutor.”

As she said those words, the door opened and two people strolled in.

“Nicholas.” I muttered dejectedly.

“Do you boys not have any curtsey and knock?”

She made an irritated sound and swept her hands toward the benches at the back of the room. “Sit.” She commanded.

“As I was saying you are ahead in some of your classes. Your teachers will provide you with the work, but these two young men will teach you for their corresponding subjects to yours. Every second lesson these students will teach you in the study room in the library for this term. The other lesson will be spent teaching them. This will account for one of your extra curricular activities.”

Flying fuck. A tutor is she joking. Staring at her intently did nothing to change her mind. Cruel woman.

“Boys come here.” What a hard women. I guess it makes up for her being short. She then turned to me again.

“I’m sure you’re already acquainted with Mr. Haviero. This other young man is Mr. Tanaka. Miss Campbell will provide you with the necessary forms.”

I got up to leave, but her voice stopped my tracks.

“And boys, I hope you do the right thing and welcome her by showing her around. That is all.”

Life never seems to go according to plan.
I hoped school was going to be a cinch that I would breeze through it, not making an indentation. But, Mrs. I’m-to-short has other ideas. Sadistic woman thinks mingling with these fools is going to get me into University and a job; please. Plus, Miss. Heartless is my sister and she hasn’t even lifted a finger to organise the funeral for her mother. Poor: Mrs. Christianson. Another thing, to add to my plate full of stress; which I would most probably be doing most of the work.

Just welcome to my world.

- - -

Author’s note:

I know I started this story ages ago, but this story started eating away in my brain again. So, I guess I’m on my way to try and complete it. This chapter is probably in a different style to the previous two chapters. Sorry. Any who, tell me what you think.

E-J