Disclaimer – I own nothing that you recognize. Only the plot and Annie, which I'm not sure I want to claim yet
The sun is slowly setting over the sea and its orange glow lights up Edinburgh in such a way that makes me wish I was there. I curl my toes in the sand one last time, and with a sigh put my shoes back on. I feel the familiar mix of sadness and relief I've felt on every 31st of August since I was eleven. Sad to leave the place I grew up and my family, but an indescribable relief that I was finally returning to my world, that one where I truly belonged.
The suns completely gone now and the stars replace its lights with a dimmer one. The moon is almost full and its shines on the sea, creating a bright beacon that a lighthouse never could. I involuterly shiver, now that the suns gone the slight breeze seems colder.
And then I see it. A dark shadow soaring through the sky. My breathe catches in my throat and I freeze, trying to stay as invisible as the light coloured sand allows. These are dark times and someone like me can never be too safe. Then the thing flies into the moon light and I feel tears of relief spring to my eyes. Although I don't let them fall, I can't stop my hands shaking.
The owl lands in front of me and I recognize the amber stripe down its back. Smiling, I take the letter and stroke the birds back before it takes off once more.
Dear Annie,
I know how you're feeling, and you know I'm feeling the same so this letter is just as a comfort for me as it is for you. Plus I know you'll be on that bloody beach so I'm writing to tell you GO HOME. It's far too dangerous to be out by yourself after dark, you know that you crazy person! On a lighter note, can't wait to see you tomorrow and the rest of the group. I'm looking forward to hearing everyone's gossip from over the summer, you know Alice, nothings ever quiet with that girl. Can you believe it's our last year? I'm so excited. And although I'll miss home I'm looking forward to actually graduating and becoming a proper part of this world, aren't you? Either way, this year is going to be an interesting one. And I know you're properly lying on that beach worrying about it. So don't. Get home, go to bed and relax. For once.
Love you lots, see you on the train tomorrow.
Lily Evans
Feeling better, I fold the letter and put it in my pocket. I can always count on Lily to know what to say. She has a scary talent of knowing exactly every thought that goes through my head.
I make my way back to the house up the hill, the lights are still on even though it's well past 9 and I know my Mums usually in bed by this time. She's waiting on me. She does it every year, and every year her smile gets a little bit sadder. I fear that this year will be the worst. Cause after this year she'll have truly lost me. Sure, I'll still be her daughter, still visit and still be there for all intents and purposes. But I'll belong in a world into which she can never really follow me to.
I give myself a shake and clear my head. Yes, August the 31st definitely was a day for revelations. And I had a feeling Lily was right- This year was defiantly going to be the most interesting one yet.
So there you have it, the first chapter of Lies My Love Told Me and the first chapter of my first novel length fic, should my muse allow it. Alls reviews and constructive criticism appreciated. If you've got to this part then thanks for reading!