Cravings: Two Bloodlines

Foresight

In Fort White, Colorado, chilly weather coats the town, and clouds mask the heat of the sun most of the year. No one cares who you are or where you’re from; it’s the ideal place to start a family… or blend in if you’re running away from something or someone.

Tierra was only five years old when she learned that she was different. From a young age, she was taught about her ancestors who had walked in the darkness, and she learned to hate the family of vampires who walked freely in the daylight—the enemies,who had once tried to erase their existence. Night after night, she sat and listened. And like every Night Walker she knew that the only way into their souls, was through their eyes.

But as she grew older, so did the stories. What she began to fear more than her own existence was what she would become. She was always careful, befriending only a few, and staying numb to loving others because she’d learned long before her dreams what to expect. But like every Night Walker—on the night of her sixteenth birthday, the dreams began.

Each night, she drifted farther away from what was familiar. From the darkness below, she could hear someone screaming. Her flesh burned, unimaginably, and her lungs were exhausted from the arctic chill that seemed to grip them, and yet she wasn’t afraid.

She could feel that she was powerless to what lurked in the darkness, but somehow her dream shifted and she could suddenly see what she could only hear before. Repetitive taps hit hard against the pavement. They were quick, and steady, getting louder and stronger inside her head. The breathing elevated, simultaneously with hers, and she realized that the taps were from someone running, and they were running from her. Her mind grew cloudy, her breathing heavier, but instead of being afraid, she felt empowered by the hunt. Tierra, for the last time—what is your answer?

Drenched in her own sweat Tierra looked up, confused, as she tried to put a face to the voice standing over her.

What’s going on?

A woman stared down at her, smiling. Tierra’s memory caught up quickly: it was Mrs. Pain, her geometry teacher. She faked a smile back and swallowed.

Tierra Childs… is something wrong?

Mrs. Pain placed her hand near Tierra’s forehead and pushed it back just enough to see her face more clearly. Tierra quickly moved away from her touch and looked up, noticing how fragile her teacher looked with her glasses sitting firmly at the tip of her nose, squeezing her nostrils together like two perfectly vertical lines side by side.

The Wicked Witch of Fort White High, she thought watching her; an aging woman with an excessive amount of cancer spots and wrinkled skin.

But now as this old woman stood over her staring down at her with her silver brows drawn tightly together, probably meaning no harm; Tierra’s only thought was how at one time, maybe in her younger years that those deep fissures pulling the skin away from her lips had probably been beautifully defined laugh-lines.

Tierra, are you all right? This is so unlike you, Mrs. Pain implied displeased. Tierra could hear her classmates mumbling around her. She tried to push out any answer that made sense, just for the sake of saving herself from the humiliation she felt. She suddenly realized that this time, she may have turned, but even if she hadn’t, when she did, she would no longer know the joy of being mortal. And moments like this wouldn’t matter. Do you know the answer or not? Mrs. Pain asked, frustrated by her silence. What’s going on? she whispered. The tone of her voice was all of a sudden consoling, revealing a side of her Tierra had never known.

I know you know this, Mrs. Pain remarked. Tierra knew how disappointed her teacher had to be, but all she could do was look up at her with troubled eyes.

The bell rang. Tierra got up quickly. She could feel Mrs. Pain moving up fast behind her as she veered around the few students lagging behind. Nancy Parker—one of her cousin Chelsea Van Etten’s many enemies—had just begun to gather her things when Tierra rushed past her, knocking her books from her hands. Smiling, Tierra apologized, but left her there to pick them up alone.

Usually, she met Chelsea at the lockers before class and today should have been no different.

T., wait up! Tierra turned and looked back hastily. Chelsea had turned over two months ago, but as usual, her cleavage was noticeably exposed, and her pants tightly fitted like spray-painted art.

What the hell’s your problem? Chelsea asked upset as she walked up. Where were you? The yellow glow through her phony brown contacts made her eyes look almost golden.Sorry, Tierra replied nervously as she walked away. Her timid nature frustrated Chelsea, and she couldn’t help feeling angered by Tierra’s answer. That’s all you have to say? she asked. Her annoying soprano tone made Tierra cringe.

Well, yeah… it is! Tierra then pulled her book bag up snugly against her chest. She could feel Chelsea’s hard stare; she stopped quickly. What do you want me to say, Chelsea? She looked at her cousin painfully then started to walk away. Chelsea walked up quickly behind her, pulling at her arm. How about why you left me waiting? she argued. Where were you?

I said I was sorry—what else is there to say?

Chelsea’s brows raised; her hostile stare toward Tierra was intended only to render how utterly disgusted she felt.

What does that mean? Chelsea asked, still gripping Tierra’s arm tightly. Tierra snatched her arm away, catching her bag before it hit the ground.

That’s all I have to say, Chels, she repeated before she walked away. Chelsea caught up to her.

You can’t be serious, she said angrily. Well, thanks a lot! What the hell’s wrong with you anyway? You don’t look so good!

A deep exhale pushed its way past Tierra’s lips. A sort of self-possessed state of relief showed across her beautiful plain, pale face, and she looked at Chelsea wishing she could tell her about the nightmares. But how could she? She remained quiet; Michelle and Sasha, a couple of teen vampires walked by. They were exceptionally beautiful; their skin typically pale, their eyes slightly glowing and they offered no smiles or conversation, only frustrated stares.

Chelsea looked back at them and stared them down until they were gone before turning her attention back to Tierra. What the hell’s their problem, she thought aloud. Anyway, what’s going on with you? she asked, pushing at Tierra’s arm softly. The expression on her face lacked compassion, but Tierra understood it and couldn’t blame her. Nothing, Tierra said apprehensively as she walked away feebly. Chelsea walked over and placed her hand at Tierra’s forehead.

You haven’t turned, have you? she asked mournfully. Tears swelled in Tierra’s eyes as she pushed her way past Chelsea.

Hey, don’t worry! Chelsea yelled as she walked up to her. And trust me: it’s all worth it! It won’t be much longer! She gave Tierra a quick tug at her shoulder. You okay? Tierra smiled and nodded.

Good. I bet I know something you don’t… considering I couldn’t tell you, since you stood me up!

Tierra rolled her eyes and continued walking. And although, Chelsea had managed to fake a smile, Tierra knew their conversation and the obvious redundant stares from other vampires were far from over.

Please, Chels, she moaned, not again. You forgave me, remember? She glanced over at her self-centered cousin in disappointment; she could see that behind the tons of make-up and phony contacts Chelsea looked almost innocent.

Well, okay, Chelsea said eagerly. I did forgive you, didn’t I? She faked another smile, but Tierra didn’t smile back. Anyway, Chelsea added, there’s a new male student who just checked in today, and I heard he’s incredibly gorgeous, although I think he’s just a freshman! She slowly slid her arm under Tierra’s arm and pulled her in closer.

Okay—and? Tierra replied, dumbfounded.

‘Okay, and’? Chelsea mimicked, releasing her arm. Did you even try to comprehend what I said? Chelsea threw her bag across her shoulder angered by Tierra’s lack of interest.

I heard you, but I also heard the word ‘freshman.’ We left that part of our lives over a year ago, remember?

Chelsea stopped. Yeah, so what’s your point? she questioned. And you didn’t let me finish! Anyway, she convincingly said as she rolled her eyes in disappointment.

I hear it’s just him and his brother… meaning, not only is he sexy, but there’s no parents! She paused and then said. He’s also single. Her annoying soprano voice aggravated Tierra even more.

And that makes it better for us right?

Chelsea looked at her disgusted. It makes him available, she replied. It also makes for a better summer! Maybe we’ll finally have some real fun! It can be one hell of a break if we play our cards right! Tierra was quiet. She knew Chelsea was right, but she just couldn’t see the hype about a freshman making a difference to them. They were sophomores, he was no doubt human… and worse, they were vampires.

What’s with you? Chelsea asked. And what does it matter if he’s human? So is Kyle… it’ll be fun!

Tierra shook her head as she pushed away a few flyaway strands of hair from her eyes. I don’t think so, she moaned. Fun for whom—us? Because it sure can’t be fun for him! And just because he lives with his brother doesn’t mean anything! And I’d appreciate it if you’d stay out of my thoughts! Being immortal doesn’t give you the right to read my mind!

Chelsea stopped quickly and grabbed Tierra’s arm; the intensity behind her yellow eyes pushed past the phony contacts once again. What the hell’s your problem? she asked heatedly.

Tierra pulled away. I don’t have a problem! she yelled. You should watch your mouth, and you really need anger management… we still have to live here, you know!

The hard yellow of Chelsea’s eyes slowly faded; she stood still and unmoved by Tierra’s whining before running to catch up to her. What’s wrong with my mouth? she questioned upset And I’m not angry—you just got me a little pissed! So what’s really up? Chelsea stopped and out of respect, Tierra stopped, too.

Just let it go, Chels. Besides, who cares about some new freshman on campus? I have far worse problems to deal with! What are we supposed to do with him—teach him tricks?

Chelsea’s stare was more confused than agitated as she watched her cousin walk away. When she caught up, the stare she gave was more than familiar to Tierra.

Chelsea was quick to judge. Well, I guess somebody got up on the wrong side of the bed this morning! she yelled.

Tierra walked even faster, but Chelsea was not far behind. Can I at least finish? she asked. I don’t know what your problem is, but freshman or not, he picked our town to live in, and I’m looking for a little more excitement than this tired-ass, dreary town can offer this summer! We’re supposed to be having the time of our lives, and I’ve been really bored waiting on you and your overdue dreaming… so please, give me a fucking break!

At that point, Tierra could not find anything to say; Chelsea was right. Nothing exciting ever happened in Fort White.It was just a small, remote little town tucked deep in the heart of Colorado. The population included maybe three hundred families, a few single women, plenty of kids, and a scarce amount of vampires—the latter of whom all had something to prove and refused to partake in any normal behavior.

There were no amusement parks, only a petting zoo, which no one visited, and the town carnival, which had gone up like clockwork every summer for the last ten years. The movie theater connected to the few town convenient stores, all of which sat on the same block as the town sheriff station and court building. All deserted most days.

For a few days in summer, the weather was decent; other than that, it was horrifically freezing cold, though it didn’t faze the natives.

Hey, Kyle said as he grabbed Tierra’s arms from behind. The touch of his hands against her skin felt good, but it was only momentary. She was always happy to see him and couldn’t help blushing when he looked at her with those sexy, dark-brown eyes she had fallen in love with since third grade.

Hey, she whispered back. The reality of his being human played in her head and had since she’d learned about the birds and bees.

But Kyle’s feelings for her were no secret, so she avoided him as much as she could, glad that he was always with his boys, Davonta, and Marcus, who were just as immature now as they had been as kids.

What’s up… you okay? he asked, pushing his shoulder into hers. You’re sweaty, he said, sliding the back of his hand down her cheek. I know I gotta have a little something to do with that, he whispered. The smell of his cologne lingered faintly in the air; the scent bothered Chelsea, but Tierra liked it a lot.

Oh, please, Chelsea whined in disgust. Get over yourself. She’s sick; it has nothing to do with you, so please don’t start with any of that degrading love talk you know nothing about! You should really stick to using that garbage on your little groupies!

Tierra could barely smile. The way Chelsea and Kyle felt about each other was no secret and hadn’t been since sixth grade. To Chelsea, he was weak and served no sole purpose, other than sexually, but considering her cousin was into him, to even look at him turned her off.

Kyle threw her one of his annoyed smirks. I’m talking to Tierra… but if I hear about anybody looking for a good time you’ll be the first to know! He placed his hands over Tierra’s ears as a means to protect her. But until then, he whispered, why not just go back to your whorehouse and hangout with somebody that may give a shit? Chelsea pulled at Tierra’s arm. Really funny, asshole, she whined. Nothing a human could say had any worthwhile affect on her. Why would I leave when my cousin needs me? She still hasn’t had any luck in the man department! So that house you speak of where there are people that give a shit… maybe it wouldn’t be a bad idea. Maybe my cousin just might wanna tag along and learn what it’s like to have a real man around! Marcus and Davonta seemed to enjoy the fact that whenever the two argued, Chelsea managed to get the best of Kyle, and as immature as they both were, everyone in the entire school could hear them chuckling like chickens, as usual. Kyle shook his head and moved in front of Chelsea, hoping to shield Tierra from her view, but Chelsea pushed him out of the way.

Hello… Chelsea to Tierra! she yelled, waving her hand across Tierra’s face. Hey, are you going to be like this all day? I’ve already told you to stop worrying! You’ve hardly said a word all morning, and besides the fact that you’re not the least bit interested that there’s a new guy on campus—regardless of the fact he may or may not be a freshman, he’s definitely better than anything around here. And at least a thousand times better company than what’s standing behind me. She looked back at Kyle turning her eyes up at him.

Kyle eased between them, competing for Tierra’s attention.

What could be so interesting about a guy whose brother’s a sheriff? he asked as he threw Tierra a quick wink. Besides, not every girl is as hard-up as you, Chels! He slid his hand down Tierra’s arm and took her hand. Chelsea shook her head disgusted by his tired played out game of catch the mouse.

Not every little boy is as immature as you, asshole! she mentioned as she placed her attention back on Tierra and said watching her, I am merely trying to get my cousin to broaden her horizon’s and put her time into someone worth her while—you know, a real man! She pulled at Tierra’s arm and winked. Kyle released Tierra slowly. His eyes looked almost as frustrated with Chelsea as Tierra was with knowing the human part of her was dying. In a way, Tierra wanted him to pull her closer and tell Chelsea how he felt about her. But instead, he turned and just looked at her, and no one said a word. But they all knew Kyle and Chelsea’s dislike toward each other was growing far out of control.

What? Chelsea yelled. If you have something to say to me, just say it!

Kyle shook his head. Everyone could see by his annoyed facial expression that he was angry. Why don’t you just run down to the office and catch up with this guy that you think is all that, he said. Or he might get away! Who knows, he just might be crazy enough to take you on! Or better yet… maybe he can figure out away to make a few bucks off you… maybe you won’t have to give it up for free anymore! His eyes widened. He placed his hand beside his mouth. But you might need to push up the breast a little more to get him interested because your face won’t cut it, he whispered.

Davonta never said a word as he placed his hand over his mouth, as if to say Chelsea had been clowned. Chelsea’s stare, not to mention the dumbfounded look on her face, as she bit her lip said it all; she’d had enough, at least for now.

For the first time, it seemed that Kyle had finally shut her up. But Tierra knew that it was only a matter of time before Chelsea’s anger got the best of her.

Come on, you guys—enough already, she said quickly. She could feel herself getting weaker. I think I’m going to go home. I’ll just see you guys later. Kyle grabbed her hand; Chelsea grabbed the other.

Are you serious? Chelsea asked vehemently. You, leave school—you, of all people! She ran her hand across Tierra’s forehead. Kyle pushed it away and turned Tierra away from her.

That’s what she said… turn on your horns, Chels, he joked, sliding his hand quickly down Tierra’s shoulder. You okay? he whispered starring at her through sexually longing eyes.

Chelsea threw her bag across her back.

What about fourth period? she questioned wearily. And you tell me to go to class! She placed her weight on one leg and pulled a piece of gum from her pocket. Davonta moved up behind her. She didn’t comment, but the smell of his blood taunted her, so she chewed the gum quickly, hoping to sooth the pulsing salivary glands in her throat.

That’s one way of looking at it, Tierra whispered doing her best to push out some form of a smile. But I’ll just bring a note tomorrow, so it’s not ditching.

Kyle backed away. Tierra could tell he wanted badly to comfort her, but not just as a friend.You gonna be okay? he asked. I can come with you if you want. His hands immediately went into his pockets; Tierra could only smile as he showed off that sideways secretive grin—the one she couldn’t help blushing for.

That sounds great, but I think my mom’s hanging around the house today… something about summer cleaning! But I’ll be fine.

Is she still leaving with your dad this weekend? His sad eyes embraced hers.

Maybe, she shyly answered. But, I really should go, she quickly mentioned, needing a break from him. She enjoyed his company, but what good was it to show it, she thought. For years she’d wanted more than his friendship, but he was human. And although Fort White was all she’d known, being a teenager there was the same for humans as well as vampires, and she knew without each other, they had nothing. But she wouldn’t let herself fall any deeper than she already had.

And in a small town, the only action for teenagers was sex; whether you were having it, talking about having it, or lying that you were having it. All of which came with a price that Tierra was all too familiar with, and for vampires the price was far greater than any human affection was worth, and even harder to pay—leaving her pickings almost slim to none.

That night, what Chelsea said about it not being much longer before she turned played over and over in her head and she was scared. Since the nightmares began, she couldn’t tell what was real and what was not.

Sometime in the middle of the next morning, the dream started again. This time the breathing below was heavier; the smell of blood made her salivate, and the town was unfamiliar. The sound of footsteps tapped quietly against the ground. But instead of moving toward them, she was floating away from them. She screamed. Suddenly she was standing in the living room with her backpack on the floor next to her. Has the day just started or ended? Right away she noticed her mother leaning against the kitchen sink and her best friend, Renee—the only mortal her mother seemed to truly connect with, and who’d pushed gossip to a whole new level—was ranting on and on about the sheriff retiring. Tierra watched them, still confused.

It suddenly dawned on her that in all her years of knowing her mother, she had no other friends other than Renee.

She often looked at her mother and wondered whether, if things had been different with her family if she would have even had a child or gotten married. She was beautiful, although lately she often looked sad; hiding her ageless skin behind plenty of stage makeup because it made her feel safe and motherly. Her lemon yellow eyes often changed different shades depending on her mood although she masked them behind brown contacts to give the illusion of some form of normalcy, in her mind. But she was good at hiding them; and had never been angry enough to allow anyone to ever see otherwise.

She picked her clothes carefully. Fitting in with the lifestyle of the other mothers of Fort White was important to her, which Tierra’s father despised. He longed for her to just be happy as herself; who’d really notice in a small town anyway, and it was the reason he’d picked the town in the first place was his thoughts.

It was no secret that he watched the younger women in town that reminded him of Tierra’s mother years ago with their short skirts and sexy button-up blouses, revealing as much cleavage as they could get away with in a small town of few eligible men.

They’d show off their fresh pedicures in their fancy open-toed shoes, and he’d smile at them, and they’d smile back sort of flirtatiously, and he’d pretend it meant nothing.

But Tierra hadn’t been a kid in years. It was obvious that his height at six-foot-three, with a head full of salt-and-pepper hair, a muscular physique, and a golden tan in a small town of aggressive single women still in the market for a good man had a lot to do with it.

But more than he enjoyed the attention; he loved Tierra’s mother, and she was far more beautiful and exciting than any woman in Fort White—or any other town when she could be herself. So it didn’t matter how much he flirted or how many skirts just happened to accidentally lift higher than they should have when he just happened to be standing a few feet away, although it did leave him fantasizing of his younger years, a time when his wife didn’t have to hide behind makeup, and at least treated him like a man, acting more like his wife than his mother.

Well—good morning, her mother pushed out quickly. Did you sleep okay? Tierra’s glance at her mother was quick.

Good morning, Mother—Renee, and yes, I slept fine. She moved around to the other side of the counter and reached for a glass from the cupboard above