CHAPTER 2

DPOV

The next few days went quickly. Not making much progress in the process of moving homes, but not back-tracking either. As suspected, mother did rearrange everything. Again, and again, oh and several other times afterward, 'just for good measure' she said.

Grandmother Yeva stayed out of her way during that stage. In fact, she has not been seen since we first arrived. Victoria said she was heard singing in the woods surrounding her, I mean our home late the previous night. But even so Victoria likes to over exaggerate. I was just about to clear her as dead when she found me in the kitchen. Leaning against the black marble topped work surface I spun when I heard her speak.

"You are brave, my dear"

I was uncertain of how to reply so; a short and simple "thank you" was all I could conduct.

"Brave inside the heart, loving and gentle." followed.

I stood there stunned. She had definitely stumped me for words this time.

"But be warned that every Rose has her falls. You can't protect them all from the winter frost." Then she returned to her silence and left.

I turned back around. My reflection in the marble top showed a face full of confusion and fear. Confused by what she had said and fear, of her. She must be going mad! Mental woman!

But I still could not help but feel the words meant something. Something important

Later I consulted my mother on this strange happening. She just brushed it of saying 'she's old and disorientated, but kind and kind enough to let us stay so do not be rude!' I let the topic go after this.

A week had past and on the Sunday eve Victoria was buzzing. I on the other hand was less enthusiastic to be going to American high school. New friends, new classes and teachers. Not my idea of fun! But, none the less I sorted my things and retreated to my room trying to extinguish the burning ache of sickness and longing for my home.

After a few hours I slept. Until, I was awoken in the night. Whispers and rustling could be heard just below my window. I leant over the bed to inquire into these mysterious sounds.

"Shut it Chris!"… "Aw… Rosy Posy, afraid we will be caught?" a female and a male.

… "No, just afraid that if you don't shut it right now your face will be mush!" the female,

… "Ha, you wouldn't!" replied the male,

… "You want to test your theory Chris?" she was angry.

There was no reply to this.

"Didn't think so… besides I don't think Lissa would be happy with either of us if that was to happen!"

"Hathaway! … we are NOT dating!"

"Don't be ridiculous… I know you are… hell! Everyone knows you are now let's get moving! Tasha will be worried!" that was final.

With that word I saw two black shadows run into the forest and away. I closed and locked the window puzzled by this strange occurrence.

Who was this Chris? Or Hathaway? Or Lissa?

Why were they in my backyard?

What were they doing?

Most importantly, Would they return?