Tainted Blood

Chapter One

I'm running. From what, I don't know but I can't stop. A deep growl fills my ears and dread shoots down my spine. Faster! It will get me! I'm thrown to the ground and a horrible pain pierces my left shoulder. Screaming...

"Lexi!"

I startle and bolt upright in my bed. My vision swims and I clutch my head, groaning.

"Lexi, honey? Do you feel sick?"

A warm hand touches my shoulder and I jolt away hissing from the pressure of the contact.

It hurts! Why does it hurt so much?

Glancing up, my mothers worried face greets me; I can clearly see every pore in her face and its overwhelming. I close my eyes tight, slightly disturbed.

"Mum.. I'm fine. Just need a Headache charm or potion..."

"Oh! Sorry! I'll get that for you."

I hear her knock a few glass vials aside.

"Here, amoureux."

I squint one eye open then gratefully take the potion from her. Popping the cork, I down it in one gulp.

"Ew!"

I gag and toss the vial as the disgusting taste coats my tounge.

"Mama! That's worse than ever!"

She smiles sadly and twirls a strand of my violet red hair.

"I know, honey."

I ignore the taste and glance around. I'm in my room, the blue and white colours familier. Wierd, last I remember I was at school.

"Mum? Why am I home? How long have I been asleep?"

"Four days."

My eyes widen as I splutter.

"Four days?"

I missed the end of the school year!

"Yes dear. But, I must ask you Lexi..what do you remember?"

"Huh?"

I gaze at her quizzically, my eyebrows furrowing in confusion.

What does she mean remember? I re-

Suddenly, a memory hits me like a herd of hippogryffs.

I'm in the forest outside Beauxbatons, looking for my best friend Emmalee Devux. "Emmy!" A long howl pierces the air. "Emmy, come on! I know that's you! We don't have werewolves around here, you know that!" Another howl. Some shuffling in the dark. "Emmalee?" Silence...then a huge creature barrels out of the trees heading straight for me. Before I know it, I'm running as fast as I can. But it's too late. I scream as the werewolf pounces on me and sinks it's teeth into my flesh.

"Ma chere! Lexi!"

"Oh my god!"

Mum is clutching my arm tightly and I notice I can hear her elated heartbeat. I yank my arm back and scoot away, terrified of my new relization. The pain in my shoulder intensifies with this action. Mums eyes are sad as she watches me knowingly.

"Mum..I..I'm a-a..a-"

"You're a werewolf, Lexi."
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Amoureux is French for sweetheart.