Clare's POV

July 13th. The day my life changed drastically and I didn't even know it. That day started off like any other in my life, you know, waking up, eating breakfast, chat with my housemate, also known as my best friend, go to the hospital for my internship, get home late, eat dinner, free time to myself then sleep. Ya know, just like any other typical Canadian's lifestyle. Except for this day, I received an e-mail that most people around the country, didn't get.

Beep Beep Beep Beep

I groaned, slapping down on the snooze button on my alarm clock. Here we go again.

I got up slowly then made my way to the shower to wake myself up.

I got home late last night due to the ridiculous traffic downtown that kept me on the road for 2 hours. Ugh.

Once I could sort of open my eyes, I reluctantly put my uniform on and headed downstairs.

"Morning Clare!" Alli, my best friend, greeted me. How is she so awake at 6 in the morning? I groaned and sat down at our kitchen island, hunching over next to my cereal. She raised her eyebrows at me, "Why are you so…down?"

I groaned again and mumbled, "Got home late last night, not enough sleep."

She chuckled and started to say something until she got interrupted by a knock at the door. She left to go answer it while I stayed here, my head resting on the table.

I honestly didn't care who it was since I felt my conscious slipping into deep sleep.

"…so yes or no, m'lady?" A man's voice filled the room. I knew that voice anywhere.

Oh how awesome. It was Drew Torres, Alli's high school sweet heart.

Don't get me wrong, the guy's great. He's an intern at the hospital, just like me. He makes her happy, which makes me happy. He's a good boyfriend too, but coming over during breakfast? Ugh, there goes my third wheel status.

"Sure, why not? It's a Friday anyway!" Alli answered whatever his question was earlier.

I heard the sound of two lips smacking against each other. Not while I'm here.

"I'm lifting my head up in 5, 4, 3…" My voice boomed around the room. I smirked to myself.

I felt someone flick my ear just before I sat up. Alli stuck her tongue out at me then slid the eggs onto a plate. I rolled my eyes.

"Morning, Edwards." Drew greeted me, scooting a chair next to her.

I gave him a fake smile and greeted back, "Torres. What brings you here so early in the morning?"

Alli kicked me under the table, which made me smirk once again.

"I just wanted to ask Alli if she wanted to go to some ball tonight, no biggie." He replied casually, as if he was hinting he didn't want me to go. I nodded slowly, munching on the Cocoa Puffs that sat beside me. "Cooooool."

Alli gave him a look, while he gave her a look back. It was like they were in their own silent conversation.

I stared at them, then decided to get out of here before they drag me in whatever they were planning.

I slowly got up and put my bowl in the sink. I grabbed my keys and my purse, on my way out the door. "Well, see you lovebirds later!" I quickly said, turning the knob.

"Wait!" Alli yelled before I even opened the door.

Dang! I was so close!

I turned around slowly, forcing a smile on my face when I saw her standing by the kitchen threshold.

"What? I'm running late."

She scoffed then asked, "Do you wanna come with me and Drew tonight to the ball? We'll go dress shopping as soon as you get home!"

I hesitated. I didn't feel like going but I didn't want to hurt her feelings either.

She seemed to notice my hesitation.

"Oh c'mon, it'll be fun! Hey, maybe you'll meet some really cute guys there!"

I stared at her pleading look and sighed. I gave in. "Fine, but not because you said there'll be guys there!"

She grinned and nodded.

I said goodbye then slammed the door shut behind me, the Toronto air hitting my face.

I took a deep breath and started walking to the hospital a couple blocks down. No way in heck am I driving down there again.

I took out my iPhone, about to listen to music, when it rang.

Oh, an e-mail.

Dear Ms. Edwards,

We would like to formally invite you to our yearly last minute Masquerade Ball tonight at 8. This fabulous event will take place at the Hilton hotel. There will be a refreshment stand and live bands as we celebrate our 25th anniversary of our successful corporation. Bring your friends or colleagues. We hope you may be able to attend.

Sincerely,

Jeffereson Hospital Board of Directors

I rolled my eyes. I guess this was the ball the lovebirds were talking about. I have no way of escaping this, do I?

A/N: Whew! I've had this idea saved up for a while now and thought I'd give it a try. Hope you guys like it so far. Don't worry, it'll get longer and more exciting in the next chapters. Review! :)