Hello everyone, this is my new chapter 1. I've rewritten the whole chapter, it's a bit different

than the first one. I now know how I wanted to write this story. Next chapter I'm going to rewrite is chapter 2

got questions or comments, review or pm.

Chapter 1:

It was a beautiful day at Sunshine Manor. A grey man in his late fifties was sweeping the path to the house. He sighed and wiped his face. It certainly was warm. Warmer than it ever was on September the 28th. He took a moment to let his gaze fall on the gorgeous garden. He has been spending a lot of months, if not years, in this garden. It was a true place of tranquility. It was so quiet. The house laying the middle of nowhere in a large forest. The next town was a three hour drive and they seldom saw people. Johnson only saw people when he needed to go to the city. He was actually glad to be away from the crowded city. It was good to be close to Mother Nature with all her gifts. Johnson started sweeping again.

His thoughts went away again. He thought about his time here. His mistress was very good to him. He got a lot of free time and the pay she gave him was overwhelming. In his whole career as a butler, he never had a salary like this. He could easily stop now and retire. But he enjoyed to serve this household. No day was the same. The mistress always seemed busy and had different kind of jobs for him to do. From painting the house to gardening. And there was no time limit to anything. If the work wasn't done now, he could postpone his duties until tomorrow, or even the days after. As long as his mistress and her children could live in a clean house, and have their meals on the appointed time. She didn't care what he did.

He never really had a laid back life like this. His other employers have been much stricter and didn't pay him much. Mistress Lilian was very easy going and paid him more than enough. Her children were also very polite. Both of them had good education, Mistress Lillian has always been keen on etiquette. Especially young lady Abbygail was a model of child. She behaved herself as her mother's little angel. Although she did have another side to her. This was not always a sweet girl, she could really deceive others if she wanted to. The eldest daughter was a whole different story. She was the exact opposite. The eldest was wild, always playing pranks or getting into trouble. Even though Alastor was quite honest, the mischief made Johnson sigh every time when he thinks about it.

He suppose that the eldest sometimes tried her best to fit in, but she quite fell out of tune. Her mother and even her sister looked quite normal. Even though the mother gave strange education to her children. Alastor just seemed weird. You could see that they were a family. The girls even look identical. But the eldest had something off worldly. He couldn't quite put his finger on it, but she didn't seem quite normal. She was unlike her sister, much wilder. She never got sick and healed faster than most. Besides, she did some extraordinary things, like catching wild cats with her bare hands, or jumping out of windows. Not windows from the ground floor, but from the second and sometimes from the roof. It was a miracle she never had great injuries. She was like a little cat. She always comes on her feet. Besides that, Alastor always seems to attract trouble. Doesn't matter where she is or what happened, something was bound to happen. Like that time when they went to the market. Somehow she managed to let a large kart with vegetables fall to the side. Causing a huge mess and leaving her mother to pay the damage.

Despite the fact that Alastor causes trouble, Johnson doesn't think for a second that Alastor did it on purpose. It was extraordinary that it always happens to her. He just wondered what caused her bad luck. He wasn't someone who believed in the supernatural. Since he met this family, he got the idea that's there is more between heaven and earth. If there was something someone here, he did his best to stay away from its path. It was bad to challenge things you cannot comprehend. Some things needed to stay in the darkness.

There were a few other curious things around this mansion, besides from the family living in it. Like some doors which seemed locked for no apparent reason. Mistress Lillian asked him not to open these door, under no circumstances, so the old man never really cared about it. But he couldn't help but to wonder what she hid from them, or the children.

What he also wondered about was the fact that there was no father. Never told him about the father. He asked if he had passed away, but Lillian denied that. He was still somewhere, but the reason he wasn't with his family remained a mystery. Even Lillian herself didn't know why he had vanished. She still waited for him to come back, Johnson doubted it though. He has been away for six almost seven years. It did surprised him that the man was present and named the children. The eldest was named Alastor and the youngest named Abbygail. He was very surprised that the oldest girl was given a man's name. Even Lillian herself did not know her husband's motives for giving a girl such a name. He even had asked Alastor about the name. The girl didn't seem to bother much with her name. She actually said it sounded, cool. She seemed to take pride in it and even told strangers without reason her name.

Johnson's suddenly heard something in the bushes in front of the house. Before he could make out what is was a young red headed girl came out. Johnson put his broom away and stepped out of the way. He shot a quick glance at the girl as she passes by. The girl had a mischievous smirk on her face. Johnson looked back to the bushes and waited till the other girl came out. It took few seconds before he was right. Now the other sister made an appearance. Only she did not look as amused as the first one. Johnson sighed, knowing what would happen now. He has seen it almost every day.

"Alastor, wait up!" Alastor looked curious behind her to hear Abbygail approach. She smirked and tried to run off, towards the house. "Wait!" Abbygail gasped and stopped. She was clearly having enough of whatever they were doing. "Wait! Or I'm totally telling mother!" Alastor stopped and turned to give her sister an annoyed look. "You're no fun at all!" She yelled and stuck out her thong. This made Abbygail mad. She started screaming. "You're mean! Why did you leave me behind in the forest?" She yelled back at Alastor. Alastor sighed. "That's what you're supposed to do when you play hide and seek." She sneered. "With hide and seek, I'm going to hide, so you have to stop following me so that I can hide!" Abbygail frowned and looked very upset. But Alastor knew better. Her sister was a good actress. Alastor could feel that deep down, her sister loved to make her pissed and get her into trouble. "But how do I know where you are!" She asked sweetly. "That is the point. If you're done counting to ten, you go looking for me. If you found me, then you can hide." Alastor explained. "You didn't say that! I thought you left me behind. You know that mother doesn't like it when you drop me off somewhere far." Now Alastor sighed at her sister's lie.

The one thing to do now, was to give Abbygail it her way. "Alright... alright. Just… Just leave me alone." She said a bit defeated. But Abbygail wasn't finished yet. "I'm not, I'm going to tell mother that you are mean to me." Abbygail yelled while making a run for it, back to the mansion. Alastor, who have dealt with these situations a lot, knew what would happened if Abbygail involved their mother. Alastor would never get the end of it. So she decided to stop her sister. Alastor began running towards the house as well and intercepted Abby. Abbygail saw her sister approach and got angry. She actually started to slap Alastor in the face. Alastor was shocked at the sudden attack from her sister. But she didn't let it go. She started to slap Abbygail back. Johnson followed everything from a distance. "Here we go again." He paced towards the fighting siblings. But he wasn't fast enough to stop Alastor from smiting Abbygail to the floor.

Abbygail fell to the ground with a big thump. "Ouch!" Abbygail screamed and started crying. First softly but then she cried hysterically. Alastor stepped back, Johnson came running and kneeled down next to Abby. "You're such a baby. You have hit me a lot harder! Look, it started bruising already!" Alastor stated coldly. Abbygail glared at Alastor and pushed her away. Then she started screaming. Johnson hushed the girl. He knew he had to solve this before Lady Lillian got wind of this situation. Luckily, she was away training her horse.

"Come on girl, stand up." Johnson said strictly. "Alas hit me, you saw that. She knocked me to the ground." She squeaked innocently. "That's not what I saw missy. You yourself started this whole ordeal." Abby started to pout, but Johnson didn't buy it. "Don't start with me girl. Look, Alastor will apologize and won't do it again, you will also apologize and promise not to fight again." Abbygail didn't like it but sourly gave her apologize to Alastor. Then she ran away before Alastor could say sorry. "Hey wait Miss Abbygail! You…." But Abbygail was gone. Johnson inwardly cursed before turning back to Alastor to further clarify the situation. But the girl seemed to have forgotten about Abbygail and stared intensely at him with her unnatural green eyes.

"Johnson?" She asked while staring at him. Johnson gave Alastor a curious look. It almost looked like she expected something from him. He smirked, knowing what she wanted to ask. "Yes, miss Alastor?" Johnson asked while pretending not to notice her burning curiosity. Alastor sighed annoyed and gave him a look. She then started again. "You know…." "I know what?" Johnson asked while trying to stay ignorant. Alastor huffed and threw out her question. "What have you gotten for our birth day?!" Alastor eyes turned into puppy eyes. Johnson smiled mysteriously. "I've got something special."

Alastor's eyes got bigger. "What? What? What is it? What is it? Please! I won't tell mummy or Abbygail!" Johnson chuckled. Alastor sure was straightforward. She was a real tomboy. Abbygail was more ladylike. With the two around there is bound to be trouble. They really live up the place. A young lady in the house is fine, but even so. A child must have something within, like the will to explore, a sense of adventure and even getting into a little mischievous. He smiled at how the girl started to plead.

"You see, after dinner I'll give you and Abbygail your gifts. I think it'll really suit you two" He added. Now Alastor's eyes started to shine a bit. "Is it a new basketball, or maybe a kart?! Oohhhh, I really hope for new skates." Alastor's face glowed with excitement. "I can't wait!" Then she looked up again. "What's the time?" She asked eagerly. "It's now exactly half past three." The butler answered. "Ah…. Another…." The girl started counting using her fingers. "One, two… two and a half hours, till dinner." Alastor looked sourly. She still have to wait for two and a half hours. "Yes, it still will be some time before dinner." Alastor sighed. "That takes too long." She pouted. Johnson smiled and thought off something. "I know what could make the time go faster." Alastor looked up in amazement. "Do you have a time machine?" she asked in awe. Johnson chuckled and shook his head. "No, what we can do is to tidy up the place. That way you don't have to wait. I think your mother would be pleased if the house is cleaned up for tonight." Alastor nodded. "Yes, tonight guests are coming for our birthday." "Well, all the more reason to clean up." Alastor smiled. "Right, let's get started." She grabbed the old housekeepers hand and dragged him to the house. "Hold on! I still have to put away the broom." Alastor let go of his hand and ran towards the broom. "I'll do it!" she yelled and disappeared into the shed. Johnson shook his head. "Kids these days, way too much energy." Johnson turned around and walked into the house. He started with his chores. Alastor soon followed and helped him clean the house.

Round five they were done getting the place ready for the guests tonight. Johnson started to make preparations for dinner. Alastor cheerfully followed him to the kitchen. She jumped on to the kitchen dresser and started chatting uncontrollably. She started talking about the party and who were going to come. Even though Johnson knew who the guests were, he loved how the girl could chatter about them.

"Let's see, uncle George is coming and, aunt Lillith and Uncle Peter." With saying the last two names, Alastor made a wry face. Then she remembered the other guest from tonight and she looked at me in terror. "Great aunt Meribeth is coming too." She said horrified. "That's correct." Johnson confirmed dryly. Alastor gasped and ran towards the living room. Johnson looked curiously at how the little girl stopped in the doorway. She turned around to look back at Johnson. "Johnson, I'm going to build up a secret base. One that aunt Meribeth can't find." "Oh, why?" Johnson asked amused.

"You know, aunt Meribeth! She is terrifying. Uncle George said she is so old, she has actually lived with the dinosaurs. But they all died from fear for her." Johnson laughingly shook his head. That George, he sure can make up stories. Always filling the girls head with strong and unbelievable tales. Alastor got his attention again by continuing her rant. "That's not all, she smells weird! Uncle George said that her smell could take out a whole army. It's really true. And she is mean, she always pinches our cheeks when she comes over. Sometimes she pinches so hard that after a week it still hurts!" Alastor now yelled. Then the girl gasped and then fell into thought again. Johnson smiled and turned back to his cooking. Then the girl turned around one last time and shot Johnson a look. "I will start building a base in the study. Will you call for me when dinner is ready?" Johnson chuckled. "I will call you, miss. And if you help with the dishes tonight, I might bring you a snack over tonight. Can't be camping without an empty stomach, now can you?" Alastor seemed to think it over and smiled to the old butler. "You are a genius. You have a deal, Mister Johnson. I'll see you later!" And with that the little girl ran off. Johnson smiled while listening to the quick paces of the young girl. He finished preparations for dinner and went to prepare the table. While he was busy, he thought about the comments Alastor made. She was right for most part. Lilith, Peter and Meribeth were not pleasant folk to have around. He could see why Alastor said the things she said. Especially that Miss Meribeth. She almost looks like a walking skeleton. The woman was so old, it wouldn't actually surprise him that she really lived in the time when dinosaurs walked the earth. And the comments she makes, bah, it made even Johnsons skin crawl. So he could understand perfectly why the girl hated her.

After six Lady Lillian came into the kitchen. "Is dinner ready?" She asked with a sweet voice. "Yes, dinner will be served in five minutes." Lady Lillian nodded. "Then I'll go collect my little rascals." Johnson smiled at his mistress. "Yes, I believe Abbygail is in her room at the moment. Alastor is in the study currently building a fort, Madame." He noted. "A fort, why would she build a….? Oh, that girl… What have she gotten into her head now?" Lillian sighed. Johnson smiled while thinking about the reason, but he wouldn't mention it like the girl has put it. "She believes it would grant her protection from… some uninvited guests. The girl has a large imagination." He said. Lillian frowned while giving her butler an annoyed look. "Meaning, she wants to hide from aunt Meribeth and Lilith and Peter." The butler just shrugged, knowing it would be best to leave business with the kids to Lillian.

Lillian muttered something and went off to find her daughters. First she went to retrieve Abbygail. Abbygail was in her room reading, when Lillian stepped outside. Abbygail really was the calmer of the two. When Lillian asked her to go downstairs for supper. She did so gracefully. Then she went to find Alastor. Like Johnson had told her, Alastor was in the study. When Lillian stepped in she frowned. Alastor was busy making a complete mess of the room. The whole ground was covered with desk accessories, books, the desk itself was pushed towards the middle of the room. The chairs stood in front of the desk, facing the door. And over the chair laid the curtains. Lillian threw one look towards the windows. They have been ripped off.

The woman took one moment to take a deep breath, and tried to not explode into anger. Once she saw Alastor coming from under the table she couldn't hold herself any longer. Especially when she saw the little girl's bright smile. Lillian cursed inwardly at the innocence her little daughter emitted even after she destroyed the curtains. She couldn't stay mad for long if Alastor was totally ignorant and happy. Lillian was still a bit annoyed but not as angry as first. "Look mum, my fortress is done. Now I can hide in here when aunt Meribeth comes." Lillian sighed and threw her daughter a look. "With my 80 dollar curtains, really Alastor? Is that your idea of a fort?" She said. Alastor looked from her mother to the curtains. She looked back at her mother, not really knowing why her mother looked at her like that. Lillian shook her head. "Those were expensive curtains. Don't expect pocket money for the rest of the year." She said while giving her oldest daughter a glare. "But mum" "No but's young lady. You can't go and rip curtains, for punishment you will stay in the living room tonight, and no training for a whole week." "Aw, but mum." "Get downstairs, dinner's ready." Lillian sneered and turned around. Without looking back she added. "And after dinner, you are to clean this mess." Alastor sighed. "Yes, mother."

Dinner went quite smoothly. Even though the girls ate for a whole football team, everything went without incident. After dinner, Lillian sent Alastor back to clean up the study. This Alastor did, while muttering an angry rant. She really disliked cleaning up things. It was much easier to let things hang around, so when you need something, you can see it and take it. She sometimes didn't understand her mother. But if mother wants it, she did it anyway. Abbygail once dared her to disobey her mother. But she never did. Alastor loved and respected her mother too much to go against her. Even when it means she didn't have the things go her way. Especially when it came to training. Alastor loved the training her mother made both girls go through. It was thrilling, the sense of getting pushed through the limits, the feeling of tiring her body and above all the rivalry between her sister and her. The training was what Alastor lived for. And now she got put off from training for a whole week, it was more than Alastor could handle. Alastor and Abbygail normally trains for three hours a day. Alastor would sure get bored in this week. And that's not all, their mother promised to give them weapon training. She finally got to learn how to handle a gun, now she must wait for another week.

Alastor sighed while putting the furniture back in place. When she was done after half an hour she went downstairs. She searched for her mother to let her know that she was done. Her mother took her back to the study and checked her work. After a few minutes Lillian nodded. "At least it's organized again. I will have to buy new curtains tomorrow." Then she looked at Alastor, who stared at her with thoughtful eyes. "Well, if you're not mad anymore... Can I go play now?" Lillian sighed irritated and shook her head. "No, it's time to get changed. I already picked out your outfit for tonight. It is laying on your bed. Go to your room and get dressed." And with that Lillian marched out of the room. Alastor sighed when Lillian was out of hearing and walked defeated back to her room.

When she opened the door she saw Abbygail sitting at her desk, reading a book. She was already dressed in a pink dress. Alastor smiled and threw curious look at her book, she wondered what Abbygail was reading now. In free times, Abbygail always had her nose in a book. This time was not different. When Abbygail seemed to notice Alastor, she threw her sister a glare. Alastor smirked at her sister. She decided to see what Abbygail was into now. "What are you reading? Red riding hood? ... Or sleeping beauty?" she asked teasingly. She knew Abbygail hated fairy tales.

Abbygail threw her a look. When Alastor came closer she noticed something it was a book she hadn't seen before. It had a black worn cover. On the front of the book was a strange sign. It looked like a star in a circle. "Did you get a new book from mother?" Alastor asked curiously when she examined the book closer.

Abbygail didn't answer for a moment, then without a warning she slammed the book shut and threw it in the drawer of her desk. Alastor jumped a little from her sister's action and sighed annoyed. "Fine, then don't tell me." She shouted and walked towards her part of the room. Behind her Abbygail chuckled. "You really are a hothead." Abbygail said amused. Alastor looked over her shoulder to her sister. Abbygail threw her a playful look. "I will tell you, but not now. First you have to get changed." Alastor sighed. "I know, I know." She said while eyeing the piece of clothing on her bed. Abbygail smirked. "Well, come on. I'm sure you would look lovely in that dress." Alastor shot her sister a glare before touching the fine fabric of the new dress. At least it was not pink. She then grabbed the dress and hold it in front of her. It was a lime green dress, not really to Alastor's liking, but Mother's word is law.

So she put on her dress. When she wore it, she took a moment to look at herself in the mirror. It felt very unnatural, even when she looked at her image. Abbygail laughed. "Look at you, you're so cute!" She said. Alastor glared at her, but stopped when her sister grabbed her arm and pulled her towards the door. "Come, mother is waiting for us. We need to show our dresses." Alastor sighed. Abbygail rolled her eyes and then dragged her downstairs.

When they were downstairs, Abbygail went straight towards the living room. She knew her mother would want to see her in the new dress. Behind her, after a moment of hesitation, Alastor also entered the room. She was not feeling very comfortable with her new dress. She rather wears trousers. "Oh, you both look adorable." Lillian smiled. "Thank you, mother." Abbygail said politely. Alastor said nothing, glancing at her own dress. She hated it when her mother dressed them up like this. And the only reason they had to wear one was because it would please aunt Meribeth. Alastor sighed when she also had to show her dress. Her mother was very proud and hugged both her girls. "You both look beautiful." She sighed delighted. Then she walked to the door. "Now it's mother's turn to dress up." She winked at her daughters. Abbygail smiled at her mother, Alastor looked awkwardly at her. Both girls waited until mother walked out the door.

"I hate this." Alastor finally said when she heard her mother's footsteps on the stairs. "You whiner, It is only for one night." "A really long night. I can't believe that I have to sit in the living room all night, with aunt Meribeth, and aunt Lillith and uncle Peter. It's not fair." Abbygail pinched her nose bridge. "Well, you're not the only one, you know." Alastor grunted. "Let's make the best of it." "Yeah…" Alastor didn't sound convinced. "The only bright spot is, that uncle George is coming." She noted. Abbygail smiled at her sister. "That's the spirit. I can promise you it will be an interesting night." She said with a strange smirk on her face. Alastor raised a brow. "An interesting night, how come?" "You'll soon know." She said knowingly. "What is it?" Alastor said curiously. Her sister walked next to her and put her hand on her shoulder. "In time, it's a … surprise." She added. "A surprise, huh. Well, let's hope you're surprise is more fun than being with our visitors." Alastor huffed. Abbygail chuckled. "It will be." Alastor knitted her eyebrows together. She did not really like the tone of Abbygail. It sounded suspicious. She pondered about what it could be and then glanced at Abbygail again. "What is it?" Alastor asked. "If I tell you, it wouldn't be a surprise anymore." Alastor frowned. "Can't you at least give me a hint?" Abbygail looked at Alastor for a moment, considering. Then she smiled slyly. "Well, it's got something to do with that book I found." "You mean that book you were reading… Wait, did you say found, where?" Abbygail chuckled softly. "Curiosity killed the cat, you know." Alastor gave her a glare. "You're the one who started talking about a surprise. If you didn't wanted to tell me about the surprise, then don't mention it at all." Abbygail sighed. "Yes, I know. Well, I suppose I can tell you where I got the book."

"Yes, come on. Tell me!" Alastor said enthusiastically. Abbygail hushed her sister and motioned Alastor to follow her. Both girls walked towards the side room. Alastor walked first in the room and folded her arms together. She saw how Abbygail shot one last glance out of the door before closing it. She turned to Alastor and she started to smirk wickedly. Alastor didn't felt at ease with her sister. There were moments where Abbygail showed a darker side of herself. And this was one of them. Alastor closed her eyes for a second and then looked at Abbygail. Abbygail shot her an amused glance. "Well, a moment ago you almost begged me to tell you where I got that book." She said softly, the wicked grin never left her face. Alastor gulped and then manned up. "Alright, out with it." She replied. Abbygail nodded. "I got the book from out the forbidden basement." She whispered. Alastor's eyes widened. "You're joking, right?" she asked. Abbygail shook her head, a big smile on her face. "No, I really got in." Alastor thought for a moment. Their mother had forbidden the girls to enter the basement. Lillian even locked it to make sure that no one could enter. "That's…. that's so cool! When did you do it?" Alastor asked eagerly. Abbygail held up her hand to silence the redhead. "Quiet. Yes, well. Do you remember last weekend, when you got scolded for ruining mother's rose garden? That's when I had my little excursion." "That's when you went? Why didn't you ask me? I really wanted to see what's in the basement as well. I really..." But before Alastor could continue her rant Abbygail put her hand on Alastor's mouth. "Shh... They are going to hear us. Yes, it was the only opportunity I had. And it was worth it." She said smugly. Alastor slapped her sister's hand away. "Then when are you going again? I really want to see the basement as well." Alastor whispered. "Tonight." Abbygail replied. "Tonight I want to go back to the basement. And I want you to come with me." She added. Alastor smiled. "That's cool, deal. Tonight, after the guests have left?" Alastor asked. Abbygail smirked. "Yes, and after mother and Mister Johnson are asleep." Alastor nodded, she smiled brightly. They were both going to investigate the basement. Alastor was so excited, she always wondered what was down there. Mother was very mysterious about it, so she always wanted to go there. Abbygail smiled on her sister's eagerness. Then both stiffened. Mister Johnson was calling them. "Miss Alastor, Miss Abbygail?" He called. Both girls listened intensely, hoping Mister Johnson hadn't heard them. Then the door opened.

Mother stood in the doorway, with her hands on her hips. "Girls, it is impolite ignore people when they are calling you." Both girls stared at their mother for a moment. Lillian raised her brows. "So what were you two doing here?" Abbygail remained calm, putting on her poker face. Alastor started laughing awkwardly. "Nothing." Both said in perfect unison. Lillian sighed. "Well, what is it?" she said, giving the girls a stern look. Alastor looked away, but Abbygail kept looking at her mother. "We were just talking mother. Alastor finds it very difficult to behave around aunt Meribeth. I was just pointing out some things she absolutely shouldn't do. Like introducing her to Kermit." Lillian stared blankly at Abbygail. "Kermit is her frog, mother. I don't think aunt Meribeth appreciates that." Lillian sighed and looked from Abbygail to Alastor, and back. She than shrugged, accepting it and turned around. "Well, I went to look for you both, I believe Mister Johnson has got a present for you both."

Alastor's eyes widened. She had totally forgotten about Johnson's presents. She rushed to the kitchen. "Johnson, Johnson. The gift, the gift!" She hummed cheerful. Abbygail followed slowly after her sister. Johnson chuckled and patted Alastor's head. "Just a minute. I'll go get both of your gifts." "Oh… Wait, let me help you." Alastor's eyes sparkled. "No miss. I can handle it. Besides, another hour and the guests are coming, so stay put." He said sternly. "Oh… Okay." Johnson sighed and pointed his finger at the young girl. "No miss. You should say 'I understand Mister Johnson.'" Alastor gave Johnson a look, then she sighed. "Yes, Mister Johnson." "Good girl, wait in the living room while I retrieve them. "Yes, sir." Alastor said softly and turned around. Abbygail followed her sister.

Alastor walked a little bit disappointed back into the living room. "You should learn to a little patient." Lillian said scolding. "Yes, mother." Alastor said and let herself fall on the couch. "Alastor, a lady doesn't sit like that." Lillian scolded again. Abbygail chuckled. "Abby, you don't laugh at others." "Sorry mother." Abbygail said, but still had a big grin on her face. Alastor sighed. This is going to be a long night.

After few minutes, Johnson came into the room. "Miss Knight, I've got gifts for the young ladies eleventh birthday." "Oh Mister Johnson. You shouldn't have." Miss Jillian said. "It is my honor." Johnson nodded.

Alastor started smiling again. She then stood up. "What is it, Alas?" her mother asked. But Alastor just smiled at her before running ran towards Johnson. "Alastor!" Lillian said sternly. "What did I say about…?" But before she could finish Alastor quick answered. "I must not run in the house. I can't be pushy or whine." Alastor said sourly. "Good." Lillian nodded. "At least you remember some things I've teach you."

Johnson coughed. "Now, I've got a little something for both of you girls." Johnson took out two little boxes out of his coat. They both had ribbons on. One was blue, the other pink.

"This one is for you." Johnson handed Abbygail the one with the pink ribbon. "And this one for you." "Thank you." The girls both said in perfect harmony. Lillian smiled while the girls eagerly unpacked their gift. "Wow!" they both said. They both held up a small necklace with a little cross. The cross of Abby had a little pink hart in it. The cross of Alastor had a little white stone. "It was difficult. But I think I did a good job." Johnson smiled. "It's beautiful!" Alastor gasped. Abby only nodded. "Thank you" She said polite, than put the little box on the table. "Thank you, it was very thoughtful of you." Lillian said. "Thank you, madam. Now I'll make preparations for tonight." Lillian nodded. "Wait Johnson!" Alastor said. She came walking to him with the necklace in her hand. "What is it? Do you not like my gift?" Johnson asked. Alastor shook her head and held the necklace up. "Will you put it on?" She asked. Johnson smiled and took the necklace. He then helped Alastor put the necklace. Alastor glowed with pride. Johnson chuckled and turned around. He went back to his duties.

After half an hour the first guest arrived. Uncle George congratulated the girls and his sister. "Happy birthday." And he both gave them gifts. Abbygail got a cute dull, which could utter the word mama. "That is nice." Lillian said. Abby looked a bit taken back. Alastor knew she didn't like cute stuff. But Abby could hide her true emotions. "Thank you, Uncle George." "Now my other favorite niece." He saw how Alastor was impatiently whipping from one leg to another. He chuckled and gave her a large box. "What's in it?" Alastor asked eagerly. "Unpack it, and you'll see." George said. Alastor went to the table and unpacked. Her eyes sparkled. It was a new baseball bat with a baseball glove and ball. "Cool!" She yelled. Uncle George laughed.

"Let's try it out tonight." He promised the young tomboy. Alastor nodded happily. Then Uncle George and Lillian went to the living room. Both girls were sitting at the dinner table. Alastor was examining her new asset and Abby was staring at her doll. "What would happen, if I cut off… Her head?" Abby suddenly asked. Alastor looked up and gave Abby a strange look. "Or if I set her hair on fire. Would she burn nicely?" Then Abby gave Alastor a penetrating look. It was silent for a few moments. Alastor didn't know what to say, Abby could be very strange at some moments. Alastor thought about earlier incidents, when her sister talks like that. Mostly it escalate in trouble for Alastor. But Alastor didn't like the idea of getting in trouble on their birthday. "That would be a bad idea. Mother would be very mad." Abby sighed and then begin staring at the doll again. Alastor looked at her sister and didn't know exactly what to do anymore. She love to cause mischief. But she would never deliberately destroy something or hurt someone. Sometimes she wasn't sure if her sister had the same morals.

After another hour, the other guests arrives. Aunt Lillith, Uncle Pete and aunt Meribeth both arrived. They always go together. Alastor doesn't really like them. They were always pretending to be better than anyone. That, and they always seem to suck up to aunt Meribeth. Maybe it's because aunt Meribeth was very rich, and very old. They would love to inherit her money.

When the doorbell rang, both Abby and Alastor stood up and greeted the guests. Both aunt Lillith and Uncle Pete got a hand. Aunt Meribeth wanted a kiss on the cheek. Abby could keep a straight face while giving Meribeth a kiss, but Alastor couldn't. She was like an open book. She set up a nasty face before kissing her aunt on the cheek. After the Kiss Alastor felt relieved, but she was too quick to think aunt Meribeth was done with them. Now was time for the cheek pinching. After the greetings and an envelope with some money both Abby and Alastor had to sit on the big table again. Abby begins staring again at the doll and Alastor looked around while rubbing over her cheek. She was already getting bored and the guests were only here for five minutes. It was going to be a long night. Meanwhile the grownups were having a conversation. Mostly it was Aunt Meredith you heard. She was talking about different kinds of pains and inconveniences you get when you get older. Then she talked about all different kinds of family members, we never even met. Alastor sighed again and took out her gift from Uncle George. Maybe she could get permission to play with her gift. Uncle George had promised to play baseball with her.

She stood up and walked towards her mother. "Mother?" First mother didn't notice her. Than Alastor spoke a little louder. "Mother can I play outside?" Lillian looked up at her daughter. "What an impolite child." Meribeth sneered. "If it was my child I would give her a good beating up." Lillian glared at her great aunt. "I can handle my own children." She said. "I've noticed. They look just like their father! Just as savage."
"Aunt!" Lillian said. "The girls need a good role model. They really miss a father figure. That Alastor wasn't a good man. He was even arrogant and named his eldest daughter after himself. What an arrogant…" But Lillian came in between. "Please can we not talk about him? It's the girl's birthday." "It's good to hear it now. They must know what a worthless worm their father was." Alastor got angry with the old crow's last comment. "My father is not a worm! He was an honorable man!" The little girl screamed. "Do not raise your voice at the elderly, you little prick!" Now aunt Lillith came in between. "Alastor, go to your room." But, mother." "Go, I won't say this twice!" Alastor lips started trembling, then she ran out of the room and up the stairs. She threw open the door from her bedroom and let her fall on her bed. She wanted to cry, but the tears wouldn't come. They never did…

After an hour she still heard yelling coming out of the living room. The mood after Alastor went upstairs, had changed for the worse. Lillian has gotten very angry during their heated discussion. Luckily, Great aunt Meribeth decides to leave. With aunt Lillith and Uncle Pete on her tail, they left as fast as they came. Uncle George also decided to call it a night. He reassured mother that she had done nothing wrong. After Uncle had left as well, it went quiet for a time. Alastor didn't hear anything and decides not to go downstairs. She didn't dare to.

After some time Alastor heard someone coming up the stairs. She quickly hide under her blankets. The door softly opens and a beam of light came in the room. Lillian carefully came in the room and softly called out her daughter's name. "Alastor?" she whispered. When Alastor heard her name, she quickly dived deeper in her bed. Lillian sighed and walked towards the bed. She sat down and softly stroked the pile under the blankets. "Hey sweetie" She said. Then she carefully pulled away the cover. Her daughter came out. Alastor blinked a few times before she gave her mother a bear hug. Lillian hugged her back. "Are you not mad?" Alastor asked softly. Mother chuckled. "No, it's not your fault, darling. Aunt Meribeth is… an old woman who doesn't have the same values as us. It's also not her fault. She didn't have a nice childhood." Alastor looked up, with a very sad face. "Oh sweetie." They held each other for a while. Then mother stood up. "There is still cake, and tomorrow is not a school day. For tonight, both you and Abby could stay up." Alastor looked and forced a smile. "That's my girl. Come let's go downstairs." Alastor stood up and both went downstairs. Abby already sat on the coach, watching television. Alastor sat down next to her. Mother went to the kitchen, to Johnson. They both talked very softly, so they couldn't be heard. After a few minutes mother came back with two pieces of cake. She smiled softly and gave both Abby and Alastor a piece. They ate it with taste. Mother sat down and put on a children's movie. First Alastor wanted to object, but Lillian didn't want to hear it. They all watched the movie together. After a while Johnson joined them.

After ten, when the movie ended, mother stood up. "Well, you two. It's really bed time now!" Alastor was ready to protest but Abby held her back. "Let's go." Abby said. Alastor looked at her sister and then went upstairs. Lillian smiled. She walked to the kitchen "Need some help, Mister Johnson?" "No madam, I'm almost done. Then I'll close off for the night." "Thank you, you're a great help." "No thanks" Johnson replied and went back to work. Lillian walked toward the stairs and could not suppress a yawn. The evening didn't went like she wanted. But what was to expect from her family?

Her family wasn't the easiest one. Especially, when she first came home with her husband thirteen years ago. Her parents have died when she and her siblings were very young. Aunt Meribeth took them in.

When Lillian and Alastor told them about their engagement, aunt Meribeth became furious. She threatened to disown her. Her brother George talked some sense into aunt and prevented a permant seperation of the family. But Meribeth has never forgotten about it. Sometimes Lillian wished that she have gone completely went under the radar with Alastor. At least before he disappeared, or died…. She still couldn't believe he was dead. Alastor was strong, he could survive many things. . He just disappeared after the twins were a few years old. She still doesn't understand and didn't liked to be reminded of her lover's disappearance. She knew that he was restless at times, not really know how to handle the peace and quiet. But the man was honorable, and he would never leave them. Not without reason.

She walked upstairs and made preparations for the night. Downstairs Johnson was done cleaning and started to lock all the doors. Then he too retired for the night. After half an hour it was quiet in the mansion. But not all were sleeping. Alastor was half asleep when Abbygail shook her. Alastor jumped up and stared in front of her. After her eyes adjust she saw the silhouette of her sister. "Don't forget our promise." Abbygail said. She smiled slyly, but it was too dark for Alastor to notice. Alastor was starting to get excited again. "Of course not. We're going to the basement." Alastor jumped out of bed. She made a bit of noise. "Sh. You idiot. Keep quiet." Abbygail scolded. "Sorry." Alastor replied goofily. Abbygail just shook her head and walked to her desk. There Alastor could hear her opening her drawer. Abbygail took something out and closed it again. Then Abbygail walked to Alastor again. "What did you get?" Alastor whispered. "You'll see. Now let's go." Both girl slipped over the stairs to the ground floor.

When they reached the basement Alastor grabbed the door handle. She tried to open the door. "It's looked." Alastor noted. "No kidding." Abbygail said sarcastically and pushed her older sister out of the way. "Let me open it." She held her hand in front of the door and whispered something. It sounded weird, but somehow familiar. Alastor gave Abbygail a look. "What are you saying?" she asked. But Abbygail didn't answer, she instead grabbed the handle and opened the door. "After you." She smirked. Alastor nodded and immediately set her foot inside. But she didn't expected a stairs. Alastor almost stumbled down the stairs. Abbygail could grab her in time. "You idiot, there is a stairs." Alastor grumbled. "You didn't tell me." Abbygail rolled her eyes. "It's a basement, what do you expect?" Alastor sighed and found the first step. She slowly followed the steps downstairs, into the dark. She couldn't see anything. Behind her, she could feel Abbygail following her.

Then Alastor reached the floor, she carefully took a step forward. She still could not see her surroundings. Abbygail walked beside her. Alastor could hear her confident steps move forward. "Come." Abbygail said. Alastor sighed. She did not like the poor sight, especially when it was a strange environment. She followed Abbygail's steps.

Both girls were walking further and further. After almost fifteen minutes Alastor sighed. "This basement is huge. Too bad it's too dark to see anything, right Abby?" Abbygail didn't answer but continued walking. Alastor quickly paced after her. "Abby?" she asked again. But Abbygail kept walking quietly forward. Alastor still followed, now wondering what's wrong with Abbygail. "Abbygail? Abby? Is something wrong?" But still no answer from Abbygail. Alastor sighed annoyed and stopped. "Abby where are we going? I'm not following you till I know." Then Alastor could hear Abbygail stop. "We are going to father's room." She whispered. Alastor frowned. "Father's room? What do you mean?" "You'll see, we're almost there."