Forbidden

~Chapter Twelve~

Hi, guys! Me again!

Welcome to the intense chapter of chapter twelve! To the right is a picture of Miss Taylor Swift, the singer/actress I have selected to portray Arabella. Also to the right is the song "If I Die Young" by The Band Perry.  You'll find out its importance later.

Also, after this, I will not be posting these beforehand. The author's notes will now be AFTER. :-)

Oh, and this chapter is dedicated to my best friend Lucy H! She is flipping amazing, one of my staunchest supporters, and, well...ONE OF THE AWESOMEST PEOPLE EVER!!!!

Enjoy!!! :-)

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~Chapter Twelve~

Arabella’s eyes flashed up at the light breeze coming from the door. River easily swung it open, stepping into the room. He offered a quick apology to Miss O’Malley before stalking over to his seat. Arabella inhaled the sweet smell of vanilla, a smile lighting her lips. The wafting scent came from an unspecified direction, but whatever it was, it was an indication of something…something important.

            Suddenly, Arabella became aware of the tension emanating from River. She glanced up at him through her lashes, worry painting her expression. She noticed his sharp intake of breath and uncomfortable fidget, so she knew that he felt her eyes on him. But no matter how intensely she stared at him, he didn’t move, refusing to turn and meet her gaze. Arabella sighed, turning to the textbook lying open in front of her.

            You know, it would make everything a whole lot easier if you would just give up this fight, Bella.

            Arabella examined the photograph in front of her, ignoring Griffin. His constant interferences were grating on her nerves.

            I know you can hear me. Remember, I’m watching you.

             Arabella balled her hands into fists. Oh, yes, I know. I can feel you, Griffin, and it’s really starting to get a little…strange. Do you know what they call people like you on Earth? Stalkers. Her reply was meant to be sarcastic and biting, but it came out sweet and timid. She winced, cursing her temperament. Sometimes being kind and gentle wasn’t all it was cracked up to be.

            Griffin’s glorious chuckle rang in her thoughts. Oh, this is why I love you, Arabella. You can be so naïve, yet so omniscient at the same time. It’s entertaining.

            You’re starting to sound like one of them, Arabella snarled, crossing her arms. She tried to concentrate on Miss O’Malley’s lecture, but Griffin wouldn’t—or couldn’t—shut up long enough for her to hear anything coherent.

            Am I? That’s an interesting thought…

            His cool breath snaked down her neck, forcing shivers down Arabella’s spine. Even from this far away, she could still sense him, feel him, and smell his sweet scent: lilac, with a hint of fresh rain. She gulped, feeling his warm brown eyes boring into her back.

            I love you, he whispered softly, becoming gentle, like a summer breeze. I always have. You’ll find out how wrong you are when he rejects you for that…ugh…girl. Suddenly, Griffin transformed back into his mocking, cynical self.

            Arabella let out a breath, tears stinging her eyes.

            Oh, and by the way? Griffin added viciously. Tell Nathaniel to stop bothering me with his useless rambling. See you tonight.