First Fire

Chapter 3

The next day, we were going to go for a walk and identify all the types of plants we had learnt about.

Fun, fun, fun.

As I stepped out of the tent, I walked to the camp fire. Mr Roberts had brought food in a cooler bag and was frying eggs over the fire.

Fancy, for a camp.

I sat next to one of my classmates. She kept asking me if I wanted some juice. After the millionth no I got annoyed.

"I don't want any of your juice!" I screamed, regretting it afterwards.

"I'm so sorry. I don't know what's gotten into me." I apologised.

I ran into my tent, only to be followed by Jeremy.

"Hey. You okay?" he asked, as I slid into his arms.

"Yeah. Sorry, I really don't know what's going on." I sighed.

"It's okay. I'm here for you." he said, pulling me into a hug and a kiss.

"Jeremy," I said," I need to tell you something. "

He looked concerned.

"I have extremely deep feelings for you. It's strong, I know that..."

What am I saying? Why am I saying it? I can't stop myself from saying it! No, don't say it!

"... and, I think I... I love you." I said.

I looked into his eyes, and he stared into mine intrigued.

"Leah... I have feelings for you too, but I don't think I'm ready to say it's love. I mean, it's only been 3 weeks..." he trailed off.

He was right. It had only been a few weeks. I was taking things too fast, but I couldn't help but feel the burning rage in my stomach.

"I'll be outside."he said, kissing my forehead.

Then he left me alone in the tent.

A tear trickled down my red cheek. I felt angry, sad and annoyed at the same time.

I stepped out of the tent to see Libitina standing there, with that stupid grin of hers spread on her face like butter!

She walked away and I rushed over to the others.

***

One excruciatingly painful walk and 100 types of plants later, we were all back at the camp.

Supper went by fast and we decided to have an early night. I was glad to be in my sleeping bag. I felt so sad and angry and it was eating me up alive!

It took a while, but after I processed all my thoughts, I managed to fall asleep.

At what seemed like 5 am, I heard noises outside the tent. Out of curiosity, I went out to see what it was.

Libitina.

Libitina had that sinister grin on her face and ran into the woods.

I grabbed a paraffin lamp and darted after her.

I'll get that girl!

I was so angry... so hungry for something to satisfy me and make me feel better.

The leaves crunched beneath my feet until I was surrounded by trees, searching for her in the dim light.

I could feel it; her presence. She was right behind me.