A/N: …W-w-where's the reviews? ;~; No one haven't comment yet, and I'm sad :( *sniff* is my story really that bad…?
So… how's it been? Yeah? Well, life's pretty boring, but it's still life… how about you? Uh huh, yup, interesting.
Now that your wait is finally over, I present you chapter five! I do not worry, I will present you the real TMNT characters within… eh… seventh or eighth chapter? I don't know, maybe the chapter after the next one V( `_`)V.
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Life Between Two Worlds
Chapter Five: Luring Temptation
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The rest of unlimited hours resulted in utter silence as no words were spoken between us. My mind raced with paranoia and fear… what if mom ground me? O-or take away my phone? I can't live this down! Grades isn't exactly topnotch priority, though, they're still important to me, and the lowest I can get is a C.
I'd gotten a C-!
Wait, calm down Amber, maybe this isn't as bad as making this to be… maybe I'm overreacting and my mother will understand that I'm not the best at math. Pockets filled with trembling hands, I released a hefty sigh as I tried to rearrange an excuse for my ass won't be chopped. There's no way outta this, so, I gotta make a reasonable lie… err… lying-truth, for I won't take much heat; besides, I wasn't really good in math anyway.
Ahead of us, there is a corner leading to my house that treads a mile. Jamie and Steve did their own thing while internally I panicked pathetically over my math test. This is stupid, honestly, I should just suck it up and understand that my mother will become angry and force me to study harder…but why is it always easier said then done? ''Hello!'' My running thoughts halted when a chipper, throaty voice greeted me…- us, I meant. A few feet stood the lady I have met yesterday, Gladys… you know? That witchy lady my family warned me about and yet I've totally ignored without second thought? I didn't stop, instead slower my pace to meet the lady since I didn't want to appear rude, ''…hello.'' I waved meekly with a soft smile.
Suddenly I tensed. My friends! Oh my gosh, what are they thinking right now since their Christian friend (I think…) is talking with this woman! I peeked over my shoulder to find Steve blinking like an idiot with a nice look of 'what the hell are you doing?!' and Jamie… seemed neutral, except a simple WTFing, but overall neutral. ''Hi darling! I see you've brought your friends along with you too?'' Her arms draped by a lengthy black shawl as curvy, petal-pink designs decorated the cloth and the ebony dress flowed portions of inches across the concrete and hair still wrapped in a pink shawl. Do all psychics dress like this? Shakily, I nodded, and then gulped in nervousness, ''u-um, yeah… these are friends: Jamie and Steve… they're going to be joining me today. S-so how are you?'' I wasn't sure why I started a discussion, but hoped as quick as it started it'll end.
''Me? I'm doing great today, business flowing slowly, but steadily. Would you like to buy something?'' She asked.
''Oh, um, n-no thank you, but thanks for offer.''
''Nonsense! I have some bracelets for sale that's 99 cents per each.'' ''99 cents each?'' Jamie blurted, pushing me out of the way so she can properly see Gladys. The old psychic nodded, ''yes, 99 cents per bracelets. They're birthstone bracelets. Original price was 2.99, but since nobody buys them I decided to lower the pricing.'' She explained nonchalantly and then laughed like it was a joke, ''since I'm eviland all, everyone believes they are cursed. Silly notion honestly.''
''Are they pretty?'' Jamie asked. I placed a hand on her shoulder lightly, ''Jamie…'' I whispered. I didn't want to be rude, but I am still somewhat skeptical of Gladys, ''yes, and the color represent the emotion and meaning behind it.''
''Then show me!''
''Jamie!'' I and surprisingly, or unsurprisingly, Steven exclaimed. Jamie flinched, red hair shifted when she turned to meet our startled expressions, ''what? They're for 99 cents.'' She said.
''So? You know we're not-… um,'' Steven cut short from his going lecture, glancing at the old lady with tensed hesitation. ''We have to go. I apologize Ms… Mrs. Gladys, but my mom must be concerned by the late absence, maybe some other time.'' A gentle push along with a frustrated glare, I guided Jamie away with hopes of leaving the area without any distractions.
Ehh… let's say my wish didn't exactly come as hoped for…
''Wait.'' Hand outreached, her eyes flashed an emotion of panic with her lips frowning deeply. ''Please, I ask you not to buy these items not for your own gain, though, of support. I am not harvesting much income within this town and barely making ends meet. All I am asking for you is to donate through purchasing some bracelets if you don't mind.'' There it was, that feeling that I desperately try not to entertain nor want to greet.
Guilt. I hated the 'guilt trip' sequence; the feeling of ignoring ones pleads and needs…, suddenly I felt terrible as I tried to swallow down the lump in my throat. I despise being a softie, but… ''…alright, I think I have some spare change on me.'' I sighed, shrugging off my backpack and opened the top zipper.
''Amber! What are you doing?'' Steve hissed, eyes narrowed from confusion and by instant impression, obviously, he was upset. ''Giving some money away Steve, what else do you think?'' I snapped, pulling out two sets of five dollar bills, ''it's the least I can do. Unlike you, I have the dignity to give money away to those who really need it. You carryin' money, Jamie?''
My redhead friend jiggled inside her cobalt colored hoodie pockets, scrunching her chocolate eyes in search and bit her lip, ''c'mon man… I know I have a five.'' She grumbled, patting her pockets for rechecking. Nope, apparently it seems like Jamie is broke again.
Sigh.
''Aha! I found it!'' Jamie yelled as she pulled out a crumbled bill from her blue jeans and grinned, ''see? I ain't lost money.'' The girl remarked with a smirk.
''Good enough,'' I ignored Steve's stare and smiled lightly at the lady. ''We would like to see your bracelets please.'' Gladys face seemed to grow brighter by the second and her lower face widened with a beaming, wrinkly smile, ''thank you, so, so much! You don't know how much your generosity will aid me.'' I watched the woman patiently as she pushed open the rusted, creakily door open slowly. A screeching noise had grinded against the concrete floor and I couldn't help but to wince at such atrocious noise only to glance at my two buddies, and seems like they didn't appreciate the crusted steely scream either; ''my shop is a little dusty and old, but hopefully sustainable for movement. Come.'' A rock grew with the pits of my stomach with an uncomfortable feeling churning inside, no matter how hard I tried to ignore, it's still there… growing.
This isn't what I've planned at all, I didn't mean to actually go and hang out with the lady! I-I mean, she's nice but… I can't do this, nope, nada, my mom is gonna kill me.
…Then again, all I'm doing is just to support Gladys, and there's no wrong in that now is it? I'm just simply donating some money to an elderly lady who needs help. What would Leo do in these situations? He's the leader of the group, the strategizer and if Leo was in this situation then he would go with his heart, by helping people. So, I settled with helping the lady out, and no, I do not base every decision on solely fiction situations… most of the time. Steve, Jamie and I shuffled closely together as the psychic, Gladys, moved away from us, a breeze slithered past me, and accidentally I released a tiny squeak. The whole space seemed eerie and a tad bit dark for anyone with average sight, especially with an old person living inside, ''um, where's the light?'' Jamie asked nervously, ''it's a little dark here.''
''I'll get it for ya.'' Multiple figures and objects where hidden by the shadows while the dimness made appear like… disturbing human figures. Trying to keep my cool, I shoved my hands in my pockets as Steve fiddled with something undistinguishable.
''Found thee light!'' All my paranoia had faded away when bright red and purple neon lights flooded the whole room. ''…Woah.'' Just looking around the space made my own room feel less then convenient, ''welcome children to Gladys Ebony Spirit Shop.'' The walls splattered with exotic, curve-like designs and hovered by beautiful Greek periodic tables, floor somewhat cracked but the gorgeous dark red rug hidden the flaw. Other accessories consisted with antique items, a few unknown boards that I wish not to touch and… I guess some voodooish stuff. There was a closed door behind a cashier counter, and it made me a bit more curious. ''I have almost everything needed within this store: flask potions, wiccan charts, magick books and so, so much more! Please, have a tiny glance at all the magnificent items that bestow before you! It might aid your future-''
''The only aid I need for my future is Jesus lady, and you need to be saved by Holy Christ.''
''Steve!'' I growled, shoving Steve with a bothered look, ''let's not disrespect Gladys, okay? She'll accept Jesus when she's ready.'' I looked down in-between Steve's hands to find a white beaded cross necklace wrapped tightly over his palms. Um, yeah… did I forget to mention that Steve's catholic? ''Please Jesus, save my shaken soul…'' He started whispering a catholic prayer underneath his lips.
''That's alright laddie, ain't no wrong and voicing opinions now.''
''Where are the bracelets?'' Jamie asked once more and thankfully, it snapped Steve away from his… errm, 'you-should-repent-or-burn-in-hell' mode.
It really can't be helped.
''Over there on that rack darling.'' Gladys cooed, pointing over to the far right of the room. On a wooden stand hung rainbow coordinated bracelets, ''there are tags pinned to each gem colored bracelet, representing its existence. Yes, go over there and take a very good look my children.'' A tingly feeling tickled my spinal cord and I could not help but to shiver in glee, a mischievous smile lurking around my lips and I giggled silently. I can't believe I'm doing this. I'm actually in this forbidden witch's store about to buy something! Oh my gosh, I'm going to be in so much trouble if my parents found out, s'not like I'm going to tell them anyway, but still. Jamie and I scanned over a few gem colors while Steve planted himself right at the door, not moving one bit, ''ya sure you don't wanna buy anything Steve?'' She asked.
''Nope, I'm good, you guys have fun over there.'' He retorted.
And I just simply sighed. It was… more like rainbow colors, to be exact, you know? Purple to red… then orange and yellow? In an order fashion. ''Ooh, look Amber! This is my favorite color, green!'' Staring at the transparent, yet green hued item I mused, ''that's an emerald, obviously. What it says on the back?'' Using petite fingers, the girl pulled a card from the bracelets centers and started to read. '' Elemental earth and elemental water. Green is the color of nature, fertility, life. Grass green is the most restful color. Green symbolizes self-respect and well being. Green is the color of balance. Means learning, growth and harmony. The emerald is the sacred stone of the goddess Venus. It was thought to preserve love. The emerald has long been the symbol of hope… Am I of hope Amber?''
''But… that's not even your birthstone.''
''I know, but I just love the color green, oh, and blue too.'' I stood there, blinking, ''um… sure, I guess so. You can uplift my spirits most of the time if that count. Is there anymore information?'' Jamie flipped the card over, and then she smiled, '' It says here that the emerald is said to bring the wearer reason and wisdom. I'm definitely going to take this one.''
''Hurry up guys! I'm getting hungry…'' Steve whined, and I rolled my eyes in response. I snatch an amethyst bracelet automatically, since purple is my favorite color underneath red and I took the card out of its hold and began to read, ''Elemental spirits, angels, and Gods of divination and prophecy…Purple is the color of good judgment. It is the color of people seeking spiritual fulfillment. Purple has been used to symbolize magic and mystery, as well as royalty. And then you wear purple when you want to encourage fantasy, mystery and imagination.'' I grabbed two sets of amethyst bracelets, gazing with admiration, ''these seem interesting. I'll buy these.'' I obviously knew these weren't the real deal, probably made in China or something, but I couldn't help but to admire how pretty these bracelets can be.
''How many are you buying Jamie?'' Knowing her, Jamie would buy the whole rack if possible. ''Eh, I'm just gettin' three. What about you?''
''…Maybe five.'' I muttered. The colors of the TMNT masks popped in my mind and I couldn't help but to smile with feign fangirlishness. It's not going to hurt getting their colors, would it? Now that's a silly thought, why would I be embarrassed about the turtle's color? Orange represents optimism, purple means intellect and wisdom, red is strength, passion, and blue means courage, bravery, addressing all the turtle's personalities. I grabbed all the turtle's colors, along with my birthstone of Opal and walked to the register.
Jamie followed behind me with her own sets of bracelets: bright jade, sapphire, and topaz. ''Are these real?'' She asked suddenly, and Gladys blinked, ''ah, well… no lass, they're not actually real from an expensive jewelry store, but their stones are very real if that counts. Consider them rocks.'' The witch weakly smiled.
''Oh… well, okay.'' Jamie moved a locked of her reddish, orangish hair away from her shoulder and unconsciously, I felt a strike of jealousy. … Why do some fortunate girls have silky hair? What about me? I'm stuck with this thick pile of puff on top of my head! I scowled, looking downwards instead of facing the register.
Jamie paid for her items and I went to pay mine, setting the charms on the counter. The lady cringed when reading the tags of the price, her hand shaking terribly when holding just a simple tag, ''you guys can head home if you'd like.'' I said, arching my neck to see my two friends at the door.
''Are you sure? What about your mom? What are we going to say?'' I can sense the tinge of fear lurking in Jamie's voice and I frowned, ''well then, just say Amber was visiting her jobsite.'' They didn't seem convinced, nor motivated to leave at all.
''Yes! Please, visit the lass's home will be very pleasant. Besides, she don't need ya holding onto her now, do ya? Relax for a bit and let's not waste your valuable time sitting there doing absolutely nothing… oh, and this might take a little bit long, I still need some newer glasses.'' I didn't need an amen from the lady, I could've taken care of it myself! And neither do I remember her suddenly with large, slightly cracked glasses.
With that wrap of hers, it made me think of myself… if I was old.
Ughh.
''…Are you sure Amber?'' The hesitance in Steve's voice had me blinking. Is he really that concerned? I mean, I know this town front and back so… I know how to handle myself, no need for Steve to breathe over me, it's creepy. ''Yeah, I'm pretty sure I'll be good.'' Except facing the wrath of my family… Nevermind that, and why is this lady taking her damn time? Seriously! She just gotten through Jamie's item for a minute! One last glance and the duo pushed the door open, leaving the shop.
I folded my arms and tapped my foot, impatience burning in my aura. Gladys gazed over her glasses to look at the tag and smacked her cracked lips, nodding before a finger slowly typed something within the register. God, one thing I hate the most is waiting, my worst enemy, and when I'm wasting time over simplistic things that takes seconds to get done then my dark side crawls out of its shell, ''do you need some help? I can help you if you like.'' I didn't want to be rude, but I really don't wanna wait for five minutes just to get my stuff checked out.
''No no lassie, I'm checking them all right now.''
Clink… clink… clink… clink…
Oh. My. God.
I grunted roughly, and my foot tapped harder. Glayds gotten through three items now and then abruptly, she stopped. I raised an eyebrow.
Why did this lady stop? With slimming eyes, Gladys moved over to the side to glance at the door, and then back at me; those green eyes I once recalled changed into a frighteningly charcoal black.
Holy…
My heart started to pound in fear, ''i-is there a problem?'' I stammered, staring at the peculiar ridden woman. I knew I shouldn't have accept her invite! ''Look girl, I need some desperate customers right now, and I'm an expert of everything, you name it: astrology, numerology, spirit medium, wiccan practicer and much, much more. I'm on a tight budget right now and I need some money.''
''What does that have to do with me?''
''It doesn't to be honest, but there's barely enough people interested in my store. A few major customers here and there, however, that's not enough for the income. You seem like a decent customer for general support.''
''I'm only doing this because you begged me too!'' I can't believe this woman… is she trying to con more money out of me? ''Listen Amber-''
''How do you know my name?'' My mind raced with endless possibilities, and nice percentages of those possibilities are fears. ''I never told you my name, what else do you know about me? I should have never-''
''Hush!'' My rambling lips when to a sudden halt, leaving me speechless and slightly… terrified, not that I'll tell anyone though. I wished my friends remained here, ready to save my butt when troubled arrived. The lady took a deep inhalation of and released, glaring at me within the process and I winced under her dark stare… I'm starting to become af-… even more nervous. ''I've known your name due to your relatives, friends and acquaintances calling you as such. Is that not your name?''
''No-… I mean, yes, it's my name.''
''Then I'm going to call you that from now own.''
''W-wait! I'll get into to trouble if my parents found out that I'm talking to you!'' What would Leonardo do in these situations? What would he do?! Because right now I certainly unsure how to wiggle myself out of issue! ''Then that's a bit… unfortunate, isn't it? Alrighty then, I will not call you such beautiful name in public. Do not be afraid of thee, Amber, all I am requesting is a trade and I will not bother you any longer.'' Immediately I knew this woman is trouble, I… I just took her for granted, though, she can't hurt me… she's too old to do anything harmful! Well, except place curses, havoc, demons and other voodoo on me.
Why didn't she say all of this while my friends were here? What does she want from me?
''…I'm listening, but you have a minute to tell me what's going on before I leave.'' I spat, loosing all mannerism in my tone. I don't care if this lady is old, I just want to get outta here.
''I'll have a say in the matter, child. Now understand me, Amber… all I want is to do some service to you and help you.''
''Why do you even want to help? You don't know me!''
''…Well, that's something I'll have to disagree with child. I've been here since 1984. And I have to ability to understand before you even walk inside my store, lassie. Please, understand that I will give you anything-''
''How about giving my freedom and waste of time back?'' My patience was thinning, and I was becoming irritated and angrier by the second…
''Are turtles your fascination?'' My burning anger splashed by the shocking cold water of her words. How… how does she…? No, no… she's probably guessing out of the tip of her head, yeah, Gladys making this up. The woman smiled at my awed expression and continued.
''Yes… you… you have an interest in a person named Michelangelo? He's… he's your interest?''
''Wha…- no, I'm sorry lady, but no.'' Gladys cackled beneath her breath and grinned, ''I know when to point out a lie when I see one; and child, you're lying.'' My breath hitches, eyes widening to the size of my glasses and my body trembles. This woman is starting to frighten me to the deepest core and even if I tried to ignore it, I can sense the deception behind this frail woman.
Maybe, maybe I should have believed those who warned me, but then again, I won't believe until I receive. ''Is Michelangelo your pet turtle? I can tell you enjoy him a lot.'' Should I submit and reveal to her my fantasy? My escaping illusion from a real living reality? Then that means it'll prove her right, right? Gladys did say she'll give me anything I want… though, for what price? ''I…'' Needless to say, I was scared how easily she discerned and read my mind like a book.
How does she do that?
''Come on Amber, it's just a yes or no question.''
''…'' Shoulders slumped, I weakly nodded a simple yes. ''Sorta… he's… he's not real… though… I like him a lot.''
''Do you want me to make him real for you?'' I jolted, snapping my attention directly to her. Is that even possible? ''N-no… I'm fine.'' I whispered.
''How about you come inside my special room tomorrow morning and we'll talk about your turtles and Michelangelo and Leonardo a bit more… we'll rearrange something, yes?''
''I…I-''
''Great. Here's your change and have a very nice day.'' Black transformed into bright emerald while she smiled gently, and I stumbled back as a shudder gripped me cold. This… this woman- h-how? I… I didn't think, but…
I snatched the items and ran out of the store, heart thudding miles per minute.
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''If that is so, why haven't you called me?'' I tried my best to remain tall, a leader and face the consequence of my actions, yet I couldn't help but to shrivel under my mom's firm parental stare. ''I, um, forgot?'' I laughed nervously and shrugged, ''I had been busy looking at items to buy and I forgotten to call moma. I'm sorry.''
''Uh huh… is that so? Well I've called the store and they said the didn't see you come in at all.'' My weak smile fell and I tried to form a suitable answer, ''then… It must not have been that store, but another shop, they had some pretty items on sale.'' I wasn't sure if my mother would believe the lie, but I crossed my fingers with hope that she wouldn't press any further.
''… I see. Well, next time you have to call to let me know.'' Mother reprimand and poked me in the chest, and in response, I flinched. We were finished with our 'talk' from the kitchen while my friends sat quietly on the couch, waiting.
''So…?'' Steve said slowly, tugging on his Naruto t-shirt in anxiousness, ''it's fine, my mother wishes to have calls before I go somewhere, that's all.'' I told them with a sad smile, ''it's a close one.'' I whispered.
''Ready for some Mario kart?'' I'm pretty tempted to jump over the couch and snatch a controller with high competitiveness, but something withheld me from doing so. ''Eh, you guys go ahead, I gotta… gotta do something right quick.'' I said and ran up the stairs with my backpack.
I slammed the door shut once I finally entered into my room and threw the backpack on the floor. Pulling back the zipper, I stared at the contents inside.
Those bracelets I'd bought from the lady…
The colors of orange, purple, red, blue layered on top and my birthstone Opal as its center piece. I was affirmative sweat trickled down my face.
Are turtles your fascination?
.
Do you want me to make him real for you?
That… that trickster is a liar, a big, fat liar. It's stupid and dumb to think that fictional characters can come to life.
What if she could? What if she's telling the truth to give you anything you wanted? I shook my head. It's just not possible for a human, no matter how advanced in anything, to do. ''I'm not going out tomorrow.'' I stated with determination. No, this lady had done enough manipulating as it is… I don't need to be used any longer.
Yes… you… you have an interest in a person named Michelangelo? He's… he's your interest?
Do you want me to make him real for you?
Gah! I gripped my head and heaved. My thoughts are loud, but it has never been that loud, and it didn't sound like mines. N-no, I'm just paranoid, yeah, maybe I'll just forget about today and just hang out with my friends like every other normal day.
…
I sighed and stared at the bracelets, ''I did it to support her, nothing more.'' However, curiosity ate through my subconscious, and I could help but to wonder. Maybe she can do something for me, though, what's worth my time? I picked up the Opal bracelet and slid it through my wrist, soon raising my arm in the sunlight to receive better inspection.
The milky crystals shined from the sun, having small light reflections through the walls. I smiled. The bracelet is very beautiful, even if it's not the real deal.
Do you want me to make him real for you?
…
''Them.'' I muttered, shrugging off my jacket and bit my lip.
I don't like the lady too much, but… I ain't gonna hurt to see what an old lady can do.
A/N: Well, that have taken up most of my time ^_^… hope you have enjoyed, and please, I would love to hear what you have to say about the chapter, it'll keep me motivated! Okay? Thanks so much!