Ravens in the Sky

Chapter 4: Bad dream?

Mother always said never talk to strangers. She said my selflessness would be my ultimate downfall. I never believed one word she said, but maybe I should have. She wasn't the motherly type, and I learned to take care of myself over the years. My mom majored in philosophy and taught over at Bear Valley High School. She was wise yet I was so reluctant to take her advice when most of the time she was home she was trying to forget or in other words getting drunk....But it was my kindness and hospitality to these boys that got me into this mess.

"Ivy! Come back inside your going to catch a cold! " My mom scolded.

"But this poor dog hasn't eaten anything and it's winter. No one is likely to help him." I said sadly.

"I don't care! It probably has a disease or something." She run over and kicked the dog away from me and pulled me inside. She slapped my arm hard. I whimpered. "Maybe that will teach you to listen the first time. I am your mother and you will obey me. Do you hear me Ivy? Ivy! Ivy. Ivy." My mom's voice faded off.

"Ivy!" I nearly jumped out of my skin when I saw Caleb shaking me awake. I threw my head back so hard I hit the headboard I the bed making a loud cracking noise. "Are you okay?! I'm sorry to have startled you. You were crying. I thought you were having a nightmare." I wiped my face quickly though I knew it was no use when I caught my reflection in the mirror on the other side of the room. My face was red and blotchy, and my hair was an absolute mess. I was more embarrassed than angry, but I certainly didn't want anyone seeing me this way.

"Haven't you ever heard of privacy?!" I yelled at Caleb.

"I'm s-sory. I didn't mean to make you upset. I was....we were worried. You were crying out in your sleep. I thought something was wrong." He stuttered.

"Just get out." I whispered. He walked out quietly. I let out a breath, and dug into the duffel bag to grab my clothes. I charged into my clothes and brushed my teeth in the small bathroom, then came back into the room and looked out the window. My heart stopped, and my eyes grew wide. I was outraged yet amazed at what I saw.