The Elementals (DISCONTINUED)

Chapter 4

I paused outside the school gates, preparing myself for the dread to come. My hand on the door, I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. Calm down, Ally, you're gonna be just fine. Go in, show no fear, and nothing will happen to you. Before I could chicken out, I pushed the door and entered the school campus.

It seemed like your typical Wednesday morning. Students laughing and chatting, holding books, at lockers. Alas, looks can be deceiving. It was anything but a normal day.

When they caught sight of me, everyone just paused and stared. Silence fell down like a thick, heavy blanket. Soon, a small crowd started to form around me.

Suddenly, the students parted into two groups like the Red Sea, making path for the cheerleader from yesterday to walk.

"Well, well, well. If it isn't Allison Lovett. What happened to your voice? You were quite the talker yesterday." She glared at me, probably imagining knives being thrown at me in that air-filled head of hers.

"WHAT?!"

Did I just say that out loud?

"Yes, yes you did!"

I shrugged,"What can I say? I speak the truth, nothing but the truth. Frankly I'm not sorry for that."

Everyone 'ooh'ed. Some guy yelled, "Burn, woman!"

The cheerleader looked like she was going to blow her top,"Shut up! You're just jealous 'cause you look like a freak!"

"I may look like a freak, but I have a brain that is working. Unfortunately, I can't say the same for you. Your greatest asset is probably the air in your head."

'Ooh's resounded, even louder than before. The cheerleader gave everyone one last glare, before getting into my face,"You'd better watch out Allison Lovett. You'll be sorry for doing that."

She glared at me again then stalked off, grumbling angrily the whole time. Just then, the bell rang. "Oh thank God,"I sighed, relieved. I began to push my way through the crowd. As great as finally standing up to bullies felt, I hated being the center of attention.

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School passed quickly. In a matter of hours, I was on my way home. When I walked into the house, I didn't really know what to expect. The cheerleader back for Round 2, maybe, but a hyperactive mother was definitely not on my list.

"Ally, Ally, Allison! Your birthday is in 2 days! My little girl is growing up, finally turning 17!" Mum sang cheerily, even grabbing my hands and doing a little dance.

"Mum," I protested, trying not to stumble,"Relax. It's just a birthday, no big deal. Besides, shouldn't I be the excited one?" I laughed at the irony.

Mum paused her re-enactment of the Gangnam Style and looked me seriously in the eye, her recent childish behavior forgotten,"Allison, it's almost time."

Her words barely registered before she left. It's almost time...