It was the one time of year I could get away with it. I looked in the mirror and smiled as I twisted my hips back and forth letting the hem of my older sister’s dress rub against my knees. Halloween, the one day I could wear a dress and feel somewhat normal without people thinking I was that gay guy, queer, fag, or in the infamous words of Arnold Schwarzenegger, a girlie-man.

My sister was away at college, and she would kill me if she found out I borrowed her conservative beige dress. If I had it my way, I would be in a flowing gown, something akin to a woman entering a casino in a James Bond movie. Of course, if I had my way, I would be female as well.

No one knew my secret. I had kept it well hidden over the years. I wouldn’t call myself gay, because I wasn’t interested in boys, but, had I been female, I don’t think I would mind being with a guy. Perspective is everything and I was just an eighteen-year-old in my final year of high school trying to live my life without being the focus of attention for every football player with too much testosterone. When I suggested being the focus, I meant that I had no interest in being stuffed into lockers or being tied to the ceiling by my underwear. Such is the life of those that are deemed ‘different’.

“Are you coming down for dinner, Aiden?”

I shouted back to make sure my voice penetrated one closed door, a hallway, and a series of steps to the downstairs foyer where Mom was likely standing. “I will be down in a minute. We’re going out tonight and eating something at Mia’s place.”

The silence that followed indicated non-committal acceptance. Ever since I started my senior year in high school my parents had been somewhat aimlessly balancing the concepts of control and autonomy. I should have given my parents fair warning I had planned to go out, but I fully expected to be released with cautionary conditions.

I made my way downstairs to the dining room and both Mom and Dad spoke the same thing at the same time. “Aren’t you a little old for Halloween?”

“We’re not trick or treating, just going to Brad’s for games night before heading to Mia’s for a bite to eat.” It was a bit of an under exaggeration but not entirely a lie.

Dad raised his eyebrow. “You’re going like that? As a girl?”

Mom was the up-and-coming political correctness enforcer in the family and set dad straight. “I heard the schools are promoting the exploration of gender fluidity and encouraging this.”

Dad grunted his disapproval but knew better than to question Mom’s comments. Not that he was a pushover, but in relationships there were some topics that just weren’t breached.

I tried to hide both my excitement of being in a dress and the embarrassment that Dad thought it was weird. I tried to make a smooth transition to normalize it. “Mia is going as Indiana Jones. Brad… who knows? I bet he’ll be a pirate. Sorry I didn’t let you know sooner, Mom.”

“That’s all right, Aiden. We’re having leftovers anyways. It’s Friday night but that doesn’t mean you can stay out late. I want you home by ten.”

“Thanks, Mom. See you both later.”

A week earlier, I completed all my requirements to drive solo anytime of the day or night. Over the summer I saved money to buy a 1999 Honda Civic Coupe. It was old and scrappy, but it ran well, and it was mine. My first stop was Mia’s house.

She was waiting for me on the front steps and took no time sliding into the passenger seat. She looked me over and grinned, “You look like your sister.”

I almost blurted out, “I wish,” but kept that thought to myself. I checked out Mia in her Indiana Jones outfit that did little to hide her beauty. She was by no means an ultra-feminine girl, as for some reason she chose to cover herself up. At her mother’s insistence, she kept her lustrous blonde hair long and wore dresses to and from school, but she would always change into pants once she got there, and her hair would normally be up. Honestly, I couldn’t understand this. Mia was extraordinarily beautiful, and she seemed to hide her own body. I had suspected for years she might be a lesbian.

“And you look like a runway model that decided to wear a leather hat and a whip.”

Mia gave a fake pout. “Are you ready for tonight?”

“Science has proven there are no ghosts, Mia.”

“Then you won’t be frightened in the least when we sneak into 224 Maple Street.”

“Why would I be frightened when I have Indiana Jones with me?”

“And a pirate. I bet Brad’s dressed as a pirate.”

I laughed. “Brad, if anything, is predictable.”

I drove off and I kept glancing at Mia.

Mia noticed my staring. “What?”

“It’s not going to be the same anymore. How long have the three of us attended school together?”

“Eight years. Don’t remind me. I’m not looking forward to Monday. I have to wear a uniform. You know, the type with a skirt, blouse, leggings, and a blazer.”

I couldn’t help but laugh.

“It’s not funny!” Mia pouted even more.

“I heard that Foothills Academy is an exceptional school.”

“This wouldn’t have happened if Mother hadn’t read the flyer about the school opening an omni-sex bathroom. My parents are too conservative.”

“I have always found your parents kind and loving. They are only thinking of your best interest.”

Mia frowned. “But to put me in a private school in my final year? Part way through the year? Who does that?”

“Better than the alternative of having parents that don’t care at all.”

“I know… I know…”

“Here we are, Indiana.”

“Thirty minutes, right? We show up, so we can say we were here, then the three of us go hunting for ghosts.”

“Brad’s family isn’t that bad, Mia.” I lied.

“What do I call you? Dorothy?”

“I’m not wearing a blue and white checkered dress with a white blouse underneath.”

“I won’t ask you how you even know what kind of dress Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz wore, Dorothy.”

“Come on. Let’s get this over with, Indiana.”

Before we even knocked on the door, Brad’s mother, dressed as a witch, was there holding it open for us. “My, don’t you two look precious! Come in, come in. Brad… I mean Captain Black, your friends are here.”

I swear Brad’s parents refused to consider that Brad was growing up. Brad sauntered down the hall wearing a full-on pirate outfit.

“Avast ye scallywags! Game nighteth awaiteth.”

Brad led us into the living room, which, for all intents and purposes, looked like it was still furnished from the 1970s, except for the sixty-inch OLED television. Brad and his family were like Leave it to Beaver meets the Jetsons.

Brad was staring at me. “You must be Dorothy.”

I rolled my eyes.

Mia laughed. “Precisely, Captain Black! We will get Dorothy scared and her little dog too.”

Brad looked about nervously. “Shhh!” His voice dropped to a mere whisper. “We play a game and then we’re going to Mia’s house for hot chocolate. No scary stuff.”

I almost laughed but held it back. “Your mom is dressed as a witch, Brad. Your family loves Halloween.”

“Yes, but she is a good witch. Like Glinda, the Witch of the North, which you should be well familiar with, Dorothy.” Brad pulled out a stack of games. “Which one?”

“Not Monopoly. That will take all night.”

Mia pointed to one. “Life. It’s quick.”

Brad set up the game and handed me a car with a pink plastic pin in it to indicate I was a girl. “I think since Dorothy is the only girl here tonight that she should go first.”

Without giving them the satisfaction of seeing them get to me, I gave my best girl-voice impression. “As it should be.”

Mia spun next and landed on the get married space. “Maybe Dorothy will be my bride?”

I was saved from further humiliation by Brad’s mother bringing us tater tots, cookies, and milk. We did our best to quickly finish the game before we said our goodbyes to Brad’s parents and drove over to 224 Maple Street.

The house was a two-story traditional that hadn’t seen a hammer or paint brush in nearly forty years. Vines had taken over and many of the windows were shattered. Out front, a low white picket fence was falling apart, and the single streetlamp flickered ominously over our heads. If ever a house looked haunted, this was the one.

I glanced at the eerie silhouette of the house, took a deep breath, and said to my friends, “Last chance to turn back.”

Mia nodded. “Almost forty years ago, on this very night, they said that Ann Weatherford was murdered. No one ever found the killer or Ann’s body.”

Brad pulled his fake sword and pointed it at the door. “Then thar we shall be discovereth the ghost.”

“That makes no sense at all, Brad.”

“Captain Black I be you land lubber. Don’t ye fret none, for Captain Black will protecteth ye.”

“I fear nothing other than poor acting or pirates that think they speaketh from a Shakespeare play.”

“Then leadeth the wayeth, Dorothy.”

The rusted iron gate groaned and squealed as I pushed it open. We stepped carefully across the weed-infested walkway. The front porch was clearly rotting, and we gingerly tested each step before proceeding. An orange notice was stapled to the door where peeling paint would make it a challenge to tape something. It read ‘Condemned’.

The door looked solid enough and the lower windows were all boarded up. Brad stepped forward. “Alloweth me, my ladyeth.”

Brad had always been a little on the portly side and when he put his shoulder to the door, he fell through it like it was made of paper. While it had looked solid, weather and neglect had rotted it through. Mia stepped through the hole, and I glanced back to the car sitting under the flickering streetlight with an ominous feeling that it might be best to turn around.

“Come on, Dorothy.” Mia’s hand found mine and pulled me through. Brad was just picking himself up from the floor and dusting himself off.

Mia froze in her steps and looked around. “Will you look at this place?”

The foyer floor was wooden, and the walls were covered in faded, flowered wallpaper that was starting to blacken and peel away. Spider webs and dust covered everything. It was a time capsule. All the furniture had remained exactly where it had been over forty years ago.

Mia giggled. “We were teleported back to Brad’s living room.”

“Ha, ha. Where to first, scallywags?”

Mia started moving as she turned on her flashlight. “The kitchen. That’s where all the knives are.”

I followed Mia and slid my fingers across a wooden wall table. My fingers came away covered in black dirt. “I need to be careful not to get this dress dirty. My sister will kill me.”

Mia laughed, spun around, and pushed me back. I braced myself with my hands to keep from brushing up against the filthy wall. “You’re kind of cute, Dorothy.” She lowered her voice as her fingers traced the frilly edge of the lace on my shoulder. “I like my women nice and feminine.”

It was the most intimate situation I had ever found myself in with Mia. Had it not been for Brad being with us and Mia skipping away laughing I’m not sure what I would have done. I was slightly dazed by the encounter as I followed them into the kitchen.

Mia was rummaging through the drawers. “This is odd. Everything is here, but there are no knives.”

The floor above us squeaked and that was followed by a thump of what could have been a door.

“Mice.” I murmured.

Brad chuckled. “Thar, she blows. One-hundred-pound mouse off starboard rail.”

“No, really. It was probably just a mouse and the wind.”

Mia looked up at the ceiling before bolting from the kitchen. “It must be coming from a bedroom!”

At first, I thought she was heading back to the front door, but she made a beeline for the stairs. “Come on, Dorothy, Captain Black.”

I raced up the stairs behind her, turning left at the top and headed down a hallway. A door was closed that would grant us access to the room above the kitchen. A line of orange light flickered under the door, but as soon as Mia put her hand on the handle it went out.

“Did you see that?”

“See what, Dorothy?”

Mia turned the handle, and we peered into the room beyond. It looked like any teenage girl’s room complete with Madonna and The Breakfast Club posters, a torn pink bedspread, a white desk that had fallen apart from the rain that had come in through the broken window, and clothes scattered and rotting on the floor.

I felt like I was violating something very personal. “How old was Ann?”

“Our age, maybe slightly younger.”

I felt my lips tighten together, “Guys, this isn’t right. I think we should leave.”

Thump, thump, thump.

Thump, thump, thump.

We were all startled by the sound and looked around, but it was Brad that found the source. “It’s coming up from the basement. It’s louder from the heating vents.”

Mia grabbed my hand and pulled. “Let’s go find out what it is!”

Brad ran after us as we rushed back downstairs. We paused at the door to the basement.

The thumping continued, and I hesitated. “Maybe we should leave?”

Mia turned to face me. I couldn’t figure out her expression. “What’s the worst thing that could happen, Dorothy?”

“What if there really is a ghost, or a killer down there?”

Mia’s face turned sad. “We will go if you want, but I have been dreaming of this place. I need to see if my dreams are real.”

“What happens in your dreams?”

“Brad is happy, and you and I are…”

Thump, thump, thump.

Thump, thump, thump.

Mia grabbed the handle and opened the door. “I have to find out.”

The darkness was thick and oppressive, and it felt like our flashlights couldn’t penetrate the eerie darkness. We heard dripping, and I felt a cool, clammy breeze against my bare legs. We paused at the bottom of the stairs. My foot touched something wet, and I looked down to discover we were standing in a small puddle of dark water.

Thump, thump, thump.

The sound was close, and all our flashlights shifted to a dark, rotting, wooden plywood door.

“This is getting creepy.”

Brad pulled his fake sword, and I could see the tip shaking in the beams of the flashlights.

Thump, thump, thump.

Brad slid the tip of his sword into the crack and the wooden plywood creaked as it slowly opened. Behind the door was the furnace and a metal panel had come loose. Breezes from the outside of the house were causing the panel to knock against the wall.

“Damn it!”

It was the first time I ever heard Mia swear.

Brad sighed. “No ghosts here.”

I glanced at my phone. “Nine-fifteen. We should get going.”

We made our way back upstairs and into the foyer.

“Stop!”

We all whipped around at the sound of the voice, our hearts beating wildly. Standing before us was a girl who looked to be around our age. She was strikingly beautiful, with delicate features that glowed softly in the dim light. Despite her ethereal appearance and smoke-like wisps floating from her, she wasn’t frightening even if her presence was unsettling. She seemed only partially anchored to the world with her form wavering slightly, and her white dress flowing as if caught in a breeze. One of her earrings was missing, which added a haunting touch to her otherwise serene appearance. There was something about her that reminded me of Mia, a resemblance that eased my rapidly beating heart a little.

“Why have you come into my home?” The ghost’s voice was gentle and a touch melancholy.

Mia was the bravest of us. “Forgive us for intruding. You must be Ann.”

I could hear Brad’s fake sword rattling in its scabbard. “We… We will be leaving now.”

The chandelier flickered to life and then went dark again. “No! You must help me.”

I was about to turn and run when a table moved and blocked our exit.

“You must find my killer. You must find my body and set me free.”

Brad pushed at the table, but it wouldn’t budge.

The ghost of Ann pointed to Brad. “You!”

Brad turned as the ghost glided forward.

“It’s Halloween night. Would you like a trick or treat? You must decide.”

Brad was almost as white as the ghost. “Uhm… treat?”

Ann’s ghost pressed her lips against Brad’s. Brad stepped back, his fingers coming to his lips, and he smiled. “Wow… Can I have another?”

Ann turned to Mia and me. “You two get the trick.”

Mia grabbed my hand in hers as the ghost stretched out her hands and touched both of our heads. Darkness swirled around me, and everything went black.

***

“Are you two all right?”

It was Brad’s voice as I slowly opened my eyes to find I was on the floor. The ghost of Ann hovered a short distance away.

“I’m…” My voice was wrong, and I paused to see someone stirring next to me. The person next to me was me! I saw myself look up and into my eyes. “I’m dead! I must be dead!”

The body I was looking at, my body, sat up slowly and looked down at himself before turning back to me. “It’s me… Mia. Aiden? Is that you? Are you all right?”

I glanced down at my hands and as I held them up, they weren’t my hands. There was something on my head. I reached for it and pulled off a leather hat. Long blonde hair spilled down over my shoulders.

I couldn’t breathe as I tried to sit up. Finally, my body reached for me and pulled me into a standing position.

It felt like I was looking in a mirror. “I’m… I’m you?”

I watched my face slowly nod.

“What’s going on?”

Neither of us could tear our eyes away from the other to reply to Brad.

“I switched their souls. They were wrong to begin with, but I needed this to happen. You must find my killer. Find my body so that I can finally be free.”

“You what?” My feminine voice was shaky. I was transfixed at seeing my own face. Mia moved her hand to my face.

“It’s really you in there, Aiden?”

I nodded. It was slowly dawning on me that I was now female. My eyes drifted to the ghost of Ann. “Why?”

Ann’s eyes softened. “This is a gift to you both so that you will help me.”

Brad moved over to look at Mia and me. “You guys! This is the best gag ever! How did you do the whole ghost thing? I swear I felt her lips on mine when she kissed me. Guys? Guys?”

The ghost of Ann was gone. I caught a glimpse of my watch. Nine-forty. “How… how did this happen? I… you… you need to get home.”

Mia’s eyes widened. “Yes. Let’s get out of here.”

“Look at this. The table can move now. You two… Best Halloween prank ever!”

We ran back to the car, and I felt every new bounce and shift of my new body. I went to get in the driver’s seat, but I had no key.

Mia smiled as she held up the keys. “I guess I get to drive.”

Brad squeezed into the back seat, and I took the passenger seat. “What are we going to do?”

Mia looked at me. “We will just have to figure it all out, Mia.”

“You’re Mia!”

With a grin, she replied. “That’s not what my driver’s license says.”

Brad leaned forward between the front seats and looked back and forth at us. “What’s wrong with you two?”

Mia stayed quiet until we dropped off Brad.

After I got out of the passenger seat and let Brad out, I climbed back into the car. Brad leaned against the passenger car door and poked his head through the open window, “Greatest practical joke of all time! You guys rock!”

Once Brad was back inside his house, Mia turned to me. “I didn’t think it could be true, but it happened just like in my dream. I don’t know if this can be undone, but I’m here for you.”

She drove to her house as we continued in silence.

“Aiden, for now you must be Mia. No one will believe us anyways. I will come over in the morning. Hang in there.”

I couldn’t figure out how Mia was handling this so well. How could I fool anyone that I was her? Luckily, I knew her parents and her house, but that amounted to very little in the grand scheme of things.

I watched Mia drive off in my car and as I turned towards her front door, I could see her mom standing there.

“How was your Halloween game night?”

“Good.”

“You know, I like Aiden. You’ve been friends with him for so long. Do you think he will ever ask you out?”

“Things are complicated, Mom… Mother.” I would always use mom and dad, never mother and father like Mia did.

“Sometimes complications get worked out. Come inside so you can get ready for bed.”

I headed upstairs to Mia’s room and closed the door. Pulling off the hat, I stared at myself in the mirror. Mia was everything I had ever wanted to be. My bright, blue eyes stared back at me, and I came to an epiphany. I was female. I had…

My hands moved to my generous but overly covered breasts and even through the layers of leather, blouse, and bra, I found them sensitive. I felt a little guilty and pulled out Mia’s cell phone, but I didn’t know the passcode, however, my face unlocked the device. I quickly texted my phone.

“You there?”

“Yes. What’s up?”

“I need to change to get ready for bed.”

“Why is that a problem?”

“I don’t want to violate… It’s…”

“Oh, wow. You’re so sweet. You have my full permission to look, feel, and do anything you need with one exception. No sleeping with any guys.”

“Thank you… I don’t plan on doing that… How are you doing? You seem to be doing so well.”

“I’m doing fine. I love your parents. They’re so cool. I will explain more tomorrow. Good night, Mia.”

“I’m Aiden.”

“We have no idea how long this might last. For now, you need to see yourself as Mia.”

I frowned and typed in my reply. “Good night, Aiden.”

I waited but there were no more text messages. “She said it was all right,” I whispered to myself. Slowly, I pulled off the leather jacket and began fumbling with the wrong-sided blouse buttons. Button by button, more skin and bra was revealed until I could take off the blouse.

Next, I took off the snug-fitting dark pants and stood in bra and panties before the mirror. A few years ago, I had seen Mia at a pool wearing a bikini. I thought she was beautiful back then, but now she was downright gorgeous. I rarely saw much skin of Mia over the years. Whether she was afraid, hated her looks, or perhaps something had happened to her, I wasn’t sure. She never told me why she dressed the way she did.

I took my time turning back and forth, looking at my long, lean legs and backside. Mia could easily have been a model. My hands moved lightly over my skin. I was amazed by the soft silkiness and how everything seemed so much more sensitive than before.

Reaching back, I unclasped the bra and leaned a little forward to let the shoulder straps slide free of my arms. I could immediately feel the weight of my breasts. By this point I had lost all resolve and even though I still felt some guilt, I raised my hands to my breasts and felt their weight. The slightest touch of my nipples caused them to peak and harden, and I let out a soft moan from the pleasure.

I dropped my panties to the floor and stepped out of them. The feeling of complete freedom, of not having anything between my legs, was exhilarating. When I managed to tear my gaze from the mirror, I dug through Mia’s drawers and found a silky nightgown that I slipped over my head. It was light pink, frilly, and very short. Seeing myself in the mirror, I couldn’t help but smile and spin.

I already knew that returning to my old body would be excruciatingly painful. All my desires and wishes had been completely fulfilled. What I could only guess at before was merely the smallest fragment of what reality as a female was truly like, and I had only been one for less than an hour.

I toyed with the idea of staying awake all night for fear of waking up as my old self, but as I explored Mia’s room, I could feel myself getting very sleepy. Reluctantly, I slipped between the sheets and soon drifted off into oblivion.

***

I woke astonishingly refreshed and rolled over with a smile on my face. Every shift of my body, every nuance, felt right. For the first time in my life, I felt free from the constant onslaught of feeling wrong about myself. Other than having a full bladder, my world was wonderful, so I grabbed a robe before heading to the bathroom.

I knew little about feminine hygiene but quickly figured out the basics. I made a note to ask Mia, or perhaps Aiden, about how to handle her long hair and a few unmentionable things. I felt rather accomplished for a first try and even used a curling iron to give my long hair a gentle twist to it. I figured I had an opportunity to live my life exactly as I had always felt I should have been, so it was with renewed joy and energy that I found a wonderful, conservative dress and headed downstairs to make everyone breakfast.

I knew enough to make eggs and toast and that was what I set about doing when Mom, Mother, came into the kitchen. For the briefest of moments, I thought I was found out because she looked at me rather oddly. As her smile broadened, I gathered my efforts were much appreciated.

“You do know it’s Saturday, Mia?”

“Of course, Mother.”

“You’re wearing a dress, and you even curled your hair a little. You’re not in love, are you?”

I giggled, which seemed strangely feminine. “No, Mother. I just woke up with a new perspective on life.”

“I’m impressed. How are you feeling about starting at a new school Monday?”

I didn’t know if I would be the one attending or we would be switched back by then, so I used this as an opportunity to share what I was positive Mia had been feeling about the situation. “Do you want my honest opinion?”

“You can always speak freely with me, Mia. It doesn’t mean we will change our minds though.”

“As long as I feel I have been heard, that’s all that matters. I’m a little nervous. I have gone to school with my friends for years and this is my final year in high school. I appreciate the concern over where you feel the public school is going, but what they do can’t change who I am. Foothills Academy is a highly respected school, but I would miss my friends in my most important year.”

“That’s a very mature attitude to take, Mia. Try the new school for a month and I promise at the end of that month we will sit down together as a family and discuss. Is that acceptable?”

“I promise I will give it my best.”

Mia’s mother came over and hugged me. “You’re growing up so fast.”

The doorbell rang, and I assumed it must be Aiden, so I ran to the door to let him in. However, as I reached for the doorknob, fear flickered across my mind. What if Aiden found a way to change us back? What if he was unhappy?

I opened the door to find Aiden pacing in circles on the front step. I looked back towards the kitchen before stepping outside into the unusually warm fall morning.

“Wow… Look at you, Mia. You are wearing a dress and everything. You look amazing.”

“Do you have time for a walk, Aiden?”

“Sure.”

“Let me tell Mother. I will be right back.”

It was with some trepidation that I stepped back into the house. I was going to tell Mia’s mother I was heading for a walk with Aiden, when it was really Aiden’s mother and not mine. Everything felt disorienting, and every word I spoke and action I took, I second-guessed myself, constantly fearing I might say or do the wrong thing.

By the time I got back outside to Aiden, I was even more nervous. I felt like I was usurping his role as Mia. We walked in silence for a few minutes.

“How are you doing, Mia?”

Should I tell Aiden the truth? I decided to avoid responding right away. “That was pretty weird last night. You seemed to handle everything just fine.”

“I feel I need to apologize to you, Mia. For days leading up to last night I had dreams. In my dreams I saw Ann’s ghost switch us. At first, I thought nothing of it, but I must share with you that for years I struggled being female. I didn’t want to be feminine or pretty because I was afraid. The dreams were so vivid, and the outcome of them solved my dilemma. It’s why I was so anxious to go last night. I’m sorry. I was selfish. I wanted something so badly that I didn’t consider the consequences for you. You probably hate me.”

“I always thought you might be lesbian by the way your dressed and hid your beauty. It just goes to show how we know someone without really knowing them. I don’t hate you and I’m not angry, just confused.”

“You’re not angry, Mia?”

“You swear you’ll never tell another soul?”

“I swear.”

I stopped walking and looked off into the distance. Anywhere to avoid looking into Aiden’s eyes. “I never wanted to be male. I watched my sister getting to wear beautiful dresses and be treated so nicely. I loved how her friends interacted with her and how my parents fawned over her. I wasn’t jealous as much as I never felt right being male.”

“You’re not just saying this to make me feel better?”

“Not at all. Ann’s ghost said this was a gift to us both. If we both felt we needed to be the opposite gender, then perhaps it truly is a gift. I have never felt better in my life. I’m afraid I will wake up back as the old me, or you or Ann will find a way to return us to who we were. You probably think that’s gay.”

Aiden took hold of me and made sure he was looking into my eyes. “May I ask you a question, Mia?”

I nodded slowly. “Of course.”

“I always thought you had a crush on me, but if you wanted to be female…”

“I was never gay. I could never see myself as a guy with another guy. I always loved your personality and thought you were the most beautiful girl in the world. I figured I would live out my life with my secret, but that wouldn’t stop me from thinking maybe the two of us could be together.”

“That’s so amazing. I always thought you were just introverted but now that you shared what you did, I can see how you struggled. Even us calling you Dorothy last night. I could see in your eyes a mix of longing and fear. You were afraid we would find out your innermost secret.”

“Deathly afraid. What happened to you, Aiden? Why did you fear being a beautiful young woman? There must have been something.”

Now it was Aiden’s turn to look away.

“Were you abused?”

Slowly he turned back to me. “No, but my babysitter was. There was a couple that were friends with my parents. They had a daughter around eighteen years old. She was so beautiful that I found myself wanting to emulate her. Her name was Brittany. She was kidnapped, raped, and killed. They never found the killer, but I overheard my parents saying the police believed it was her beauty that drove the killer to do what he did. It frightened me so much, that I changed everything about myself.”

“So, you were never a lesbian?”

“I didn’t say that. I have always been fond of pretty and feminine women. It’s just that… with my parents. It would destroy them. They would never be able to accept it.”

We walked to a park and sat side by side in a pair of swings.

“What happens now, Aiden? Do you think this is permanent?”

“I don’t know. We must continue with the assumption that it is. I will need to show you how to apply makeup and share my life’s history with you. I have a diary that I kept. You can always read that. It’s hidden under my mattress.”

“You wouldn’t mind me reading it?”

“I think you might find it revealing and it will help you with some of my history. Are you sure you’re all right with all of this?”

“Completely. You?”

“Never better, except… How do you keep this thing from… you know…?”

I must have blushed fifty shades of red. “Welcome to being an eighteen-year-old guy. You can always try to think of something else or take care of it yourself.”

“I did… three times since last night.”

“Oh… my… What exactly are you thinking about? You’re not… I mean… You and another guy? Is that what you’re thinking?” I shuddered.

“What? No! I was thinking of… Never mind… I think we need to go back and see Ann’s ghost. We need to get some questions answered.”

“All right. Do we invite Brad?”

“He still thinks we set the whole thing up. I think it should be just you and me.”

“He didn’t appear to believe you and I switched bodies.”

“He called again last night thanking us for the greatest gag ever done in the entire history of the universe.”

“Aiden, what about your parents? How do you want me to behave around them? I feel guilty that…”

We both stood, and Aiden hugged me before responding. “I know what you’re thinking, Mia. I feel a little guilty as well that I’m not as concerned as I should be. I love my parents, but I love yours too and I know that if you are me that you will love my parents like I did. You’re a wonderful person, Mia. Better than I will ever be. Whatever you say or do will be a blessing to them.”

“I feel the same about you and hope whenever I feel a need, that perhaps I could come and visit them?”

Aiden smiled. “There’s a way we can accommodate that very easily.”

“How’s that?”

“I can announce that you’re my girlfriend.”

“That would make your mom, I mean Mother happy. She even asked last night when you might ask me on a date.”

“Would it make you happy, Mia?”

“I wanted you to be my girlfriend for years. That sounds so strange looking at you as I say that. I think… No. I know I would like that.”

Aiden’s hand reached for mine and it felt good even if it reminded me that I was smaller and more vulnerable.

“Then perhaps I can take you out to dinner tonight. I know you’re free and I seem to have money in my wallet.”

“Hey! That’s my money.”

“Maybe you could take me out to dinner then. I will even loan you your money.”

“No way. If I’m the girl, which clearly, I am, then I’m going to make sure you pay, even if it really is my money. Honestly, because of how good I feel right now, I would give up everything. You can even have my car if I get to keep your body.”

“That’s a bonus then. I get what I always wanted, I get a car, and I get a hot girlfriend.”

“Are you truly interested in me that way or is this just for show?”

“I’m really interested in having you as my girlfriend. How about I take you home, you can spend the day getting yourself oriented, and I will come by at five to take you to dinner. After dinner we can go see Ann.”

“You make this seem so ordinary as if nothing has happened and we’re not going to see a ghost that had the power to swap our souls.”

“I believe she gave us this gift and wants us to help her. I think we owe it to her and I’m not afraid. Brad wants us to get together tomorrow.”

“That might be a little awkward. Do we have to go to his house? I already feel like I’m an imposter.”

Aiden smiled again. I don’t ever remember smiling that much.

“If you feel like an imposter now, just wait until you go to church tomorrow morning.”

“I forgot you did that with your parents every Sunday… How am I going to pull that off? I know nothing about church.”

“You will love it. You get to dress up all pretty, sing some songs, listen to the preacher, then mingle with everyone. You will do great.”

“You look like you just received a get out of jail free card.”

“There are things I know I won’t miss about my old life. Having to dress up the way my mother wanted me to dress, and church, not that it was bad, I just never liked the church we went to, and my period.”

“I kind of like the first one, am terrified of the second, and I’m looking forward to my first period.”

“We will see how long that lasts. What about you, Mia? Will you miss anything about being a guy?”

“I will tell you what I won’t miss. I won’t miss the boy’s change room, getting an erection in the middle of class for no other reason than the temperature changed, being bullied by the jocks, or my body odor after gym class.”

“Women smell too.”

“Women never smell as bad as men. I admit that being a little smaller and weaker might be frightening at times. Were you ever frightened by me?”

“Like when you would stare at my legs before I could change out of my dress?”

“You noticed that? Oh God… I’m so sorry that made you uncomfortable.”

“You never made me feel uncomfortable, but when other men did it, especially older men, it bothered me. I always felt safe around you because you didn’t treat me like I was anything other than your friend.”

“I always thought you were beautiful no matter what you wore, and I was a sucker for your bare legs,”

Aiden grinned. “Your legs now. Let me walk you home.”

***

When I told Mother about my date with Aiden, she was thrilled. She reminded me that things all work out if they are meant to be. For the rest of the day, I spent time going through my room and inventoried all the clothes. I got Aiden to send me his password for the computer and the passcode for the cell phone. I used the computer to research how to apply makeup and I would practice while I watched YouTube videos. I did the same thing with hairstyles before settling down on the bed and reading through Mia’s diary.

Since we had no idea if this was permanent, I had to start mentally repeating to myself that I was Mia. So, as I read Mia’s diary, I had to remember that it was my history. Having insights into Aiden’s daily life was useful, but it was when he recalled the dreams and his excitement about the chance we could be swapped that I found the most interesting snippets. I read the diary as if studying for a test and took notes about people Aiden had encountered on a regular basis. There was one girl named Naomi at church where Aiden had expressed some longing for. This perturbed me.

As the time was nearing for Aiden to pick me up for dinner, I put on a lovely red dress and struggled with my hair until Mother came in. She offered to assist me which thrilled me. This was the type of mother-daughter time I had always dreamed about.

She brushed out my long hair as she looked at us both in the mirror. “You know we like Aiden and think this is a good thing as long as it doesn’t go too far.”

“What do you mean by going too far?”

“Today’s media does much to suggest it is perfectly normal to have sex before marriage. This isn’t a good thing, Mia. Think of your heart as a puzzle and every time you give of yourself to another person, you give them pieces of that puzzle. If things don’t work out, you’ll never get those puzzle pieces back and can never fully give yourself to your husband. What I’m trying to say is that things happen on dates and sometimes they can get out of control. While I will never tell you that you can’t, I’m here to tell you that it will be better for you in the long run to wait.”

The conversation was rather awkward, and I wasn’t sure I wanted to have sex with anyone yet. “It’s just dinner, Mother, and I doubt Aiden would ever pressure me. Besides, we’re only investigating the possibility of something deeper than friendship. We want to be careful to preserve our friendship.”

“Where has all this maturity suddenly come from, Mia? It’s as if you’re a new person overnight.”

Cold dread washed over me, but Mother stepped back and smiled. “You look beautiful, Mia. Don’t stay out too late. We will be waiting up for you and if you ever need us, we’re only a call away.”

“Thank you.”

The doorbell rang, and I was quick to get up, but Mother put her hand on my shoulder. “Let Father get it. It’s good to let Aiden wait a couple of minutes so you don’t look too eager.”

I waited several minutes that seemed to last a lifetime before Mother gave me the nod. She hugged me closely. “Have fun, Mia.”

“We will.”

I stepped down the stairs to see Aiden and Father speaking together. Aiden was being grilled but he handled Father very well mostly because he knew exactly what Father would want to hear. As soon as Aiden heard me coming down the stairs, his eyes shifted to me and stayed there. I guess this was how a girl would feel on prom night.

Father leaned over and hugged me. “If you need anything, please call us, Mia. Have a good night and we expect you home by nine.”

I was about to argue the early curfew when Aiden shook Father’s hand. “I will be sure to bring Mia home on time.” He turned to me. “Are you ready, Mia?”

I nodded. Aiden then held the door for me and led me to the car. He opened the passenger door for me under the watchful eyes of my newfound parents as they stood in the doorway. I waved as we pulled away.

Once out of sight, I breathed a sigh of relief. “You would think we were heading off to Vegas or something.”

“They’re very protective. It was interesting relating to Father this way as it shows me just how much they care for their daughter. I knew they did, but the shift in perspective helps me see it more clearly.”

“Mother gave me the talk as I was getting ready.”

“Really? I would have loved to hear that. Are you having any second thoughts?”

“About being your girlfriend, or being you?”

“Either.”

“No. Not really. But I would understand if you wanted to swap back as I feel I got the better end of the swap.”

“I would only if it was something you wanted to do, but I have never felt so free in my life.”

“Me too. Where are we heading?”

“Gino’s Pizza. It’s quaint and has booths where we can talk without fear of people overhearing. Plus, I do feel a little guilty since I am technically using your money.”

I glanced down at the hem of my dress and smiled. “Don’t feel guilty. I can’t keep from smiling because I feel so wonderful. Gino’s will be perfect as long as you are there with me.”

“Are you nervous about being out in public?”

“No… Yes… A little. I keep thinking someone will point at me and say I’m a guy, but, logically, if Mother can’t see I’m different, then no one else will. What I meant is, I doubt I would feel as comfortable if it was anyone else but you.”

“You’re sweet, Mia.”

I giggled. “I think that’s the first time anyone ever called me sweet.”

“Get used to it.”

We pulled up to Gino’s Pizza and once again Aiden opened the car door and even rushed ahead to open the restaurant door for me. These simple acts warmed my heart, and I wondered if this was the real Mia coming out as Aiden.

Once we were seated in a quiet booth, we didn’t even have to decide what to order as we already knew what we wanted. Once the waiter left, I began our conversation in earnest again.

“This is so strange and nice at the same time. We know each other so well and yet we have been swapped. Everything feels fresh and new, but not us. Does that make sense, Aiden?”

“I know exactly how you feel. I guess it goes to show you that we are who we are, but I think that has a lot to do with the fact we wanted to be each other in many ways. If you were swapped into Beverly Tourney, would you feel the same way?”

“That’s a tough question as whenever I pictured myself as a girl, I never pictured Beverly. Yet, I think I would have been fine. I always pictured myself as you, or I guess me now. How about you? I was never a jock or a teenager with more facial hair than the Duck Commander. Are you really happy with my body?”

“I always admired you. To me you were the perfect blend of handsome without being pretentious. Not everyone matures at the same rate, and I preferred your looks to anyone else at school. I think parents are a good way to see into the future. Your father is very handsome and fit just as Mother is very beautiful and thin still. I think you take after Mother, and I take after Dad. So, if you were asking me if I would rather be in anyone else’s body, not a chance.”

“When I think about it, I never even felt a need to shower. Can you imagine popping into someone else’s body that had been a horrible person? You would carry all that baggage with you, and it wasn’t even yours.”

Aiden looked thoughtful for a moment. “Billy Westlake. Quarterback of our high school football team. I had a few interactions with him, and he is such a jerk. I shiver at the thought of winding up in his body. None of the girls I know like him.”

Aiden reached over the table and clasped my hand in his.

“I know this is awkward for you, Mia, but I meant what I said about wanting to be your boyfriend. Sure, I see myself when I look at you, but you are so much better suited for my body. I see the way you smile all the time, how you take care to look better, and how your demeanor isn’t stand-offish. You make a far better me than I ever did. I loved it when we were together as friends before. It feels even better now.”

I stared into my own eyes, but saw they were different. Somehow, they seemed happier. When I had looked in the mirror before, I always thought I looked defeated.

“Last night… when you pinned me up against the wall. What were you thinking?”

“You remembered that? Out of everything that happened last night, that’s foremost in your memory?”

I nodded.

“At first, I was just being mischievous. However, I had a moment there with you. I wanted to kiss you so badly, but Brad was there, and my dream of Ann’s ghost came back to me. In that moment, I saw such longing in your eyes.”

I looked away. “I have always been in… I think we should focus on the task at hand. My emotions are all over the place. I’m afraid you might not like being me or that Ann will swap us back. I will be honest with you, Aiden. I think if we were swapped back, I might not survive.”

His hand gently squeezed mine. “I feel the same way.”

“I’m not sure you do, Aiden. I believe what happened to us could never happen. That there was no magic wand, pill, or miracle of science that would resolve my inner conflict. I had to force myself to move on and picture myself in a life I knew I would never be truly happy in. My only hope, is that this is permanent, but I’m afraid.”

“What are you afraid of?”

“I feel right with you, Aiden. I feel like this is the way it was always meant to be for both of us. However, I read about Naomi from church in your diary.”

“Mia… Look at me. I think I know what you are worried about. I had so many fears growing up. I was afraid I would never be able to be with a guy, and yet I loved you. Yes… I just said that. I was so afraid you would find someone better than me that I flirted with the idea of ending my own life to save myself the pain of seeing you with someone else. Like you, I had to move on, and Naomi was someone I felt safe around. Of course, she was into guys, and we would never… We do go to a conservative church.”

“But now that wouldn’t be a concern.”

“You’re worried I have feelings for Naomi and now that I’m a guy I would abandon you.”

“It’s a foolish thought…”

“No, it isn’t. People change, but you never have. You have been my friend for so long that the only way I could see myself being forced to move on from you would be if you became a horrible person or told me you never wanted to see me again. Even with the latter, I think I would sit beneath your bedroom window for months at a time hoping you would reconsider. Please, Mia, rest assured that if you have any feelings for me, then I am not going to stray. Ever.”

“You must think I’m such a clingy sissy.”

“From the way I see it, you’re adorable. I see you slowly blossoming into the person I knew was inside of you. Until last night, I just didn’t know that person was supposed to be inside my body and mine in yours, but I see this as a blessing for both of us. In case I haven’t been clear, Mia, I see no future without you by my side. How perfect would it be for us to get married? We already love each other’s parents.”

I was grateful that the pizza came at that moment, because I didn’t know how to respond to Aiden suggestion of marriage. It was clear that Aiden was as excited about being the old me as I was about being Mia. I glanced at Aiden and imagined what it would be like to be kissed by him. The thought made me blush.

As I picked up a slice of pizza, still steaming from the oven, I glanced across the table at Aiden. Well, the new Aiden, in my old body. It was peculiar to see my face with that thoughtful expression, lips pursed like I had seen a hundred times in the mirror but never really noticed until now.

“So, about Brad,” Aiden said, his voice hesitant, which was still a bit jarring to hear coming from my old mouth. “Do you think he will suspect anything? I mean, he has known us both for years. Won’t he pick up on something being off?”

I sighed, placing my slice back on the plate. “Brad’s not exactly the most perceptive guy when it comes to subtle changes. He’s more likely to notice if we suddenly start acting super weird around him. We need to stick to what we know about each other's lives. I will cover for you if he asks anything too personal about me, or, well, you, and you do the same.”

Aiden nodded, taking a thoughtful bite of pizza. “So, keep it normal. I can do that. But what about... us? How do we explain we are suddenly dating? We agreed to date each other. How do we handle that with Brad? Or anyone else, for that matter?”

My cheeks warmed and not from the pizza. I had gone from having a crush on Mia, to being Mia, and now dating my old self. The idea of being in a committed relationship was foreign to me and even more so now. “I think we should take it slow. We’re still figuring this out ourselves. No need to announce it to the world just yet. Let’s keep it between us for now. We will know when the time’s right.”

He smiled, my smile, and it felt oddly comforting, like seeing a piece of myself in a new light. “Okay, slow it is. But tonight... we’re still planning on finding Ann, right? We need answers.”

I nodded, suddenly feeling the weight of what we had taken on. “Yes, after dinner, we will go back to where it all started. Maybe Ann can tell us more, like who her killer is and how we’re supposed to help.”

Aiden leaned in, his eyes locking onto mine. "Whatever happens, we will figure it out. These are our lives now, and we won’t face them separately."

I smiled, reaching across the table to squeeze his hand, feeling the warmth of his grip around mine. “We will,” I echoed, the words lingering between us like a promise. And for the first time since this strange adventure began, I felt an unexpected sense of peace, like maybe, just maybe, we could make this work.

After Aiden paid for the meal with my money, still strange to think about, we stepped out into the cool night air. He moved around the car, and I couldn’t help but smile as he opened the passenger door for me with a slight bow, a playful glint in his eyes.

“After you, beautiful lady.”

“Such a gentleman,” I teased, sliding into the seat, the warmth of the restaurant still lingering on my skin.

“Only the best for you,” he replied, flashing a grin that looked so different on my face. He was more confident and less self-conscious than I had ever been.

As he started the car and we pulled away from the pizza place, I stared out the window, the streets blurring by, my mind already on what awaited us at 224 Maple Street. I tried to ignore the growing knot in my stomach, telling myself that we could handle whatever the night threw at us. After all, we had already lived through one impossible night. What was one more?

The drive was quiet, the only sound the hum of the somewhat rough engine and the occasional rustle of leaves as we passed under shadowy trees. When we turned onto Maple Street, my breath caught. Even in the dim light, the house loomed ahead of us, more like a living spirit than a dilapidated house.

As we pulled to a stop under the single streetlamp, it flickered, casting an eerie, sputtering glow that barely reached the ground. We both sat in the car for a moment, staring at the house. “Ready?” Aiden asked, though his voice lacked the bravado it carried earlier.

I nodded, trying to ignore the unease settling in my chest. “Yes. Let’s do this.”

We stepped out of the car, the night air colder here, sharper. The front door of the house, which Brad had broken through just last night, was somehow back in one piece, standing firm as if it had never been touched.

As we reached the front porch, the door creaked open on its own, revealing the darkened interior. I glanced at Aiden, who gave me a reassuring nod before stepping inside. I followed close behind, the floorboards groaning under our weight.

The foyer looked just like it had the night before. Somehow the lifelessness of the place was even more disturbing. The air was thick with the scent of mold and something else, something older, like the weight of what shouldn’t have been forgotten pressing down on us.

And there, standing in the middle of the foyer, was Ann, the ghost who had switched our bodies.

She looked almost the same as last night, her form translucent but solid enough that she could have been mistaken for a living person if not for the faint glow and whisps of white smoke that surrounded her. Her eyes, filled with compassion and a touch of fear, locked onto mine, and a chill ran down my spine.

“Thank you for coming back,” she said, her voice echoing slightly, as if coming from far away. “We have much to discuss.”

I swallowed hard, glancing at Aiden, who had stepped up next to me.

“We’re here, Ann,” I said, trying to keep my voice steady. “But we need answers. Why us? Why did you switch us, and how do we find your killer? We… we’re thankful for the gift of being swapped, and fearful you might switch us back.”

Ann’s expression softened, and for a moment, I saw something like sadness in her eyes. “Because you both wished for something more, something different. And because only together can you find the truth and set me free. I used much of my energy to switch you, and I may not ever have the energy again to switch you back to your old selves.” Ann looked away for a moment. When she turned back, her expression was a mix of sadness and concern. She stared right at me as she hovered closer but turned to face Aiden.

“Aiden. I know of the fears you had and how you longed to be something other than a beautiful, young woman. For this reason, I needed to switch the two of you. Mia does not carry that fear.”

Ann faced me, her ethereal hand stroked my cheek. “Mia… You will need to be strong and courageous in the days ahead. Aiden loves you and will protect you.”

I frowned, not knowing what all that meant. “What can you tell us about your death? Do you know who killed you? Do you know where your body is?”

“It was a man, but he kept his face covered. There was a scar on his hand. I know my body is somewhere nearby, but I cannot leave this place. I am trapped here. When it happened, my last thoughts were of the happiest times in my life. This is where I have remained.”

Aiden shifted uneasily as he glanced at me. “You say that Mia will need courage, and I will need to protect her. I can’t lose her.”

“The path ahead is unclear and the future is ever-changing. I believe the killer is still alive and anything that might expose him could put you at risk.”

“What else can you tell us. Ann?” I asked. “Did you have a boyfriend? Are your parents still alive? Was there a place you frequented where the killer might have spotted you?”

“My boyfriend was Avery Thompson. My parents have passed from this realm. I went to Foothills Academy. The killer was here, in the house. The night he took me… It’s too painful to talk about. I must go.”

Ann flickered and vanished. Her words, fear, and sorrow lingered, and I realized with a sinking feeling that this was only the beginning. We had agreed to help, but the path ahead was going to be more difficult and likely more dangerous than we could have imagined.

Aiden slipped his hand into mine as we silently left the house, the door closing all by itself behind us.

The drive back to my house was quieter than I expected, both of us lost in our thoughts after what we had learned from Ann. My mind kept replaying her words but strangely, what she said about our switch had me thinking. It was permanent and there was no going back.

It was clear that Aiden had been contemplating the same things. “Are you okay with this? That it is the way we are forever?” Aiden finally asked, breaking the silence. He glanced at me, his eyes, my eyes, searching for some sign of how I really felt.

I took a deep breath, trying to sort through the jumble of emotions swirling inside me. “I think I am. It’s a lot to process, but... yes. I wanted this and I feel perfect, like I was always meant to be this way. That there is no going back feels somewhat settling to my soul.” I paused, biting my lip as I stared out the window. “But I’m also scared. It was one thing to feel the wonders of being female, but the finality of it being permanent has ramifications for us both. I’m you now. Your life has become mine and mine yours. It’s a lot to process and contemplate our futures on top of everything we must face now with helping Ann.”

He nodded, his grip tightening on the steering wheel. “I get it. It’s not going to be easy, but we will figure it out. I’m here for you. I’m not going anywhere, and we can work through anything we struggle with together.”

When we pulled up in front of my house, Aiden parked the car and quickly got out, coming around to open the door for me like he had at the restaurant. It was a small gesture, but it made my heart flutter, a mix of nerves and excitement as I stepped out onto the driveway.

We walked to the front step leaving us in the dim glow of the distant streetlamp. There was a moment when we both just stood there, the implications of the night weighing on us. Then Aiden turned to me, his expression uncertain as he leaned in slightly, his intentions were clear.

My breath caught and my heart fluttered as I realized what was about to happen. But just as his lips were about to touch mine, the porch light flicked on, flooding us in harsh brightness. I jumped back, my face burning with embarrassment as I turned to see my new forever parents standing in the doorway, their expressions a mix of curiosity and apprehension.

“Uh, I should go,” Aiden stammered, taking a step back. He glanced at my parents, then back at me, his expression apologetic. “I will see you tomorrow afternoon, okay?”

“Yes,” I managed to say, my voice barely above a whisper. “Thank you for tonight. I will see you tomorrow sometime after church.”

He gave me a small, awkward wave before turning and heading back to the car. I watched him go, feeling a mix of disappointment that we never kissed as the car disappeared down the street.

My parents didn’t say anything at first, just exchanged a look before Mother finally spoke. “So, how was your date?”

I sighed, knowing there was no easy way to explain everything that had happened. “It was... complicated.” I glanced back at where Aiden had driven off, my thoughts already on tomorrow and everything that would come with it. “But good. Really good.”

Mother hugged me tightly. “It can be difficult bridging that gap between friendship and something more.”

Father hugged me next, and I felt the love he had for me. “Did Aiden try anything?”

“Aiden was the perfect gentleman.”

“He better keep being that way. I won’t tolerate my daughter being mistreated. Now up you go and get ready for bed. We have church in the morning.”

“I’m pretty sure Aiden understands your position very well and I won’t tolerate being mistreated.”

“Good girl.”

I headed up the stairs to my bedroom and closed the door. I sat on my bed, staring at myself in the mirror. It was all sinking in. If there was no going back, not that I wanted to, then this was now my room. The clothes were my clothes. The people downstairs were my parents. It was surreal.

I changed into my nightgown and robe, carefully putting my dress away. I paused several times to examine myself and the clothes in my closet. This was my life. I had a slight touch of remorse over some of my things, my parents, and even some of my plans, but that was short-lived because the truth was, I was ecstatic.

I went into the bathroom and stared at my toothbrush. I would have thought it would be gross using someone else’s toothbrush, but it wasn’t at all. I happily brushed my teeth, jumped into bed, and let my fingers roam my body, starting with the lightest of touches on my lips. I wanted so badly to feel what it would be like to be kissed by Aiden.

***

The morning sunlight streamed through my bedroom window, pulling me from sleep with its warm rays that fell across my comforter. I stretched out, I was already giddy with excitement for the day ahead. Today was my second day as a young woman and I was filled with joy from the moment I woke.

I slid out of bed and made my way to the closet, pulling the door open to reveal a row of clothes that were still new to me. My eyes caught on a beautiful, flowered sundress, soft and delicate with a pattern of tiny blossoms that seemed to dance across the fabric. I smiled as I pulled it off the hanger. It was perfect. Pretty, but not too flashy, exactly what I wanted today. I paired it with a set of strappy sandals, the kind that added just the right touch of elegance without being over the top.

As I dressed, I couldn’t help but admire how the dress hugged my new form, making me feel both confident and feminine in a way that was still so novel to me. I brushed my hair, letting it fall naturally over my shoulders, and gave myself a final once-over in the mirror. The girl staring back at me looked happy, excited, and maybe a little nervous, but in a good way.

Downstairs, I found Mother already in the kitchen, bustling around as she prepared breakfast. The familiar smells of bacon and fresh coffee filled the air, making my stomach rumble. “Good morning, sweetheart,” she greeted me with a warm smile.

The night before Father had told me I was a good girl. Some might consider that term cheesy, or cliché, even a bit demeaning under certain contexts, but it had made me proud. I was a girl, and I wanted to be a good one. When Mother called me sweetheart, it filled me with warmth. These were the terms of endearment my sister had received, and I always wanted to hear.

“You look lovely today.”

“Thank you, Mother,” I replied, feeling a little flutter of pride at her compliment. I joined her at the counter, eager to help. “What can I do?”

She handed me a bowl of eggs to whisk. “Why don’t you start on these? Your father will be down soon, and we will eat together before church.”

Church. The word sent a small ripple of anxiety through me. I had never been to church before, not really, and the thought of walking into a place where everyone seemed to know me, but I didn’t know them, was daunting. Still, I didn’t want to let that spoil the morning. I focused on whisking the eggs, letting the rhythm calm my nerves.

Breakfast was a quiet affair, my parents chatted lightly while I tried to mentally prepare myself for what was coming. After we ate, we all piled into the car and headed to the church. It was a small, quaint building, with a tall steeple that seemed to touch the sky. As we walked inside, I felt a touch of trepidation, the unfamiliar setting making me feel slightly out of place. Some fear crept in as I imagined Mother and Father realizing as they watched me fumble through the normal routines of church, that some alien had snatched their daughter’s body.

As soon as we entered, people started greeting me, calling me by name, smiling, and waving like they had known me forever. It was a bit overwhelming. I tried to keep up, returning smiles and nods, but it was disconcerting to be surrounded by so many familiar strangers. My fear only grew that I would be found out.

As we made our way to a pew, a pretty girl with long, wavy brunette hair and a bright smile suddenly appeared in front of me. Before I could react, she pulled me into a warm hug. “Mia! It’s so good to see you!”

I stiffened for a moment, taken aback by the sudden affection, but then relaxed into the hug. “Uh, yes, good to see you too,” I managed, trying to sound natural even though I had no idea who she was.

She pulled back, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “It’s been forever since we hung out. We have to catch up after the service!”

Mother leaned around me and greeted the girl. “It’s good to see you, Naomi. When did you get back from your trip with your parents?”

Oh. Naomi.

“Just last week. I’m glad to be back though. It was hard to keep up with my studies when I was in Europe.”

Naomi grinned and sat down next to me.

As the service began, I followed her lead, standing and sitting when she did, trying to blend in. When the congregation started singing, I hesitated at first, unsure of what to do. But then I noticed the words on the screen and decided to give it a try.

To my surprise, as I began to sing, I found that my voice was actually... good. The melody came easily, and I felt a strange sense of peace wash over me as I joined in the songs. It was like I was discovering a new part of myself, something I hadn’t known I could do, and I found myself enjoying it.

After the service, I was anxious to get out of there. Not that it hadn’t been pleasant, but to get away from people that knew me, but I didn’t know them. Naomi and I lingered outside the church. She chatted nonstop about her trip to Europe. I could see why Mia had liked her as I found myself slipping easily into our conversation. She was bubbly and talkative, filling me in on the latest gossip, and I tried to keep up, nodding along as she talked about boys and school.

“Are you going to the Sadie Hawkins dance?” she asked, her tone casual but with a hint of excitement.

I blinked, trying to remember what that was. “I hadn’t really thought about it since I start at Foothills Academy tomorrow.”

“Oh. Right. That’s got to suck. I guess you can’t go then. I figured you would go with Aiden, but if you’re not going, I guess I can ask him.”

My heart sank and before I could think, I blurted out, “Actually, Aiden and I are... dating.”

The words hung in the air, and Naomi’s smile froze, her eyes widened in surprise. “What? Since when?”

“Recently,” I said, trying to backpedal but realizing I couldn’t take it back now. “We just started seeing each other.” I took a long look at Naomi and didn’t even recognize her. How she knew me, Aiden, when she had not been on my radar was beyond me. However, when it came to my life as Aiden, I only had eyes for Mia.

Naomi’s expression shifted, a flicker of something like jealousy crossing her face before she quickly covered it with a tight smile. “Oh. Well, that’s... great. I didn’t know you liked him like that.”

I opened my mouth to say something, to try and smooth things over, but the moment had passed, and the tension lingered between us. We walked in awkward silence back to where my parents were waiting, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had somehow messed up.

Despite the uncomfortable ending, I had enjoyed the morning. Meeting Naomi, discovering my voice, even the odd uplifting experience of church. It had all been new and exciting if not frightening at times. But as I waved goodbye to Naomi, I couldn’t help but wonder what my new life would bring and if I was ready for it. After all, what did I really understand about the secret social life of a young women? Reality was beginning to sink in.

***

A little after lunch, I heard a car pull up outside. I peeked out the window and saw Aiden getting out, followed by Brad. My stomach did a little flip at the sight of Aiden, and I couldn’t help but smile. But then my eyes landed on Brad, and I braced myself. He was the skeptic of our group, and I knew he would have plenty to say about what had happened Friday night.

I couldn’t let Brad accidentally say anything about Friday night, so I told my parents I would be back well before dinner and excused myself.

I met them at the door. “Let’s go to the lake.” I pleaded with Aiden with my eyes.

“Great idea, Mia.”

We all got into the car and as soon as Brad settled himself in the backseat, he launched into his usual chatting mode. “Okay, so I’ve been thinking about Halloween night,” he started, not even bothering with a greeting. “There had to be some kind of projector hidden in the house. Maybe a hologram or something like that. And the table… it was probably rigged with wires, like a magic trick.”

Aiden and I exchanged glances, and I stifled a laugh. Brad was always trying to find a logical explanation for things, even when logic didn’t quite fit.

“Brad,” I said, trying to keep my voice level and calm, “we didn’t set anything up. There was no projector, no wires. Ann was real.”

Luckily the lake was close by, and we climbed out of the car and found a spot where we all liked to sit. The fall colors lingered since we still hadn’t had heavy frost. The lake was a perfect mirror. It would have been a perfect date spot, and I leaned slightly into Aiden.

Brad didn’t accept my explanation at all. “Come on, Mia. You expect me to believe that? It was way too convenient. The whole thing screamed setup.”

He kept going, rattling off theory after theory, not giving us a chance to get a word in. It was almost impressive, really, how determined he was to debunk everything. Aiden just stood there, listening with a half-amused, half-annoyed expression on his, my old face. I found I was looking at Aiden a lot, finding it hard to comprehend that used to be me.

I reached out and took Aiden’s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze, more for my own comfort than anything else. Aiden squeezed back, and I felt a little spark of warmth between us. It was a simple gesture, but it felt good. Right, even.

Brad noticed immediately. He stopped mid-sentence, his eyes zeroing in on our clasped hands. “Wait a minute,” he said slowly, suspicion coloring his tone. “What’s going on between you two?” his eyes narrowed. “Mia, you’re wearing a dress.”

Aiden and I exchanged another glance. There was no point in hiding it, not anymore. “We’re together,” I said, feeling a blush rise to my cheeks. “We just started dating.”

Brad stared at us for a moment, his mouth slightly open like he was trying to process this new information. Then he shook his head, letting out a low whistle. “Wow. I didn’t see that coming. First, you two set up this crazy ghost prank, and now you’re dating. I bet it happened when you spent all that time together setting up the Halloween gag.”

Aiden leaned close to me. So close I thought he was going to kiss me. His lips brushed my ear and I almost moaned, forgetting Brad was even there.

“He will never believe it.” Aiden pulled away.

I wanted him to kiss me so badly.

Aiden nodded at Brad. “You’re right, Brad. We did set it all up.”

“I knew it! It was so real. How did you make Ann? You must have been in there before making a movie that was projected.”

When it was time to head home, Aiden dropped Brad off first. Brad leaned through the car window. “You guys are the best, and, for the record, it’s about time you two got together. I could not have handled many more months of Aiden making puppy dog eyes at you, Mia.”

I giggled. “He did drool a lot, didn’t he?”

Aiden puffed up his chest. “I was smitten, but I did not drool!”

Aiden and I glanced at each other with our shared secret. It was fun having the light-hearted banter about our previous lives. However, when it came to me wanting Mia before the switch, I would admit I was not only smitten, but I did drool a bit.

Brad waved before heading inside his house. The car felt quieter without him, and I found myself glancing over at Aiden, wondering what he was thinking. Aiden drove us back to my house.

As we pulled up to my house, Aiden turned off the engine and shifted in his seat to face me. “Tell me, how was church?” he asked, his tone light but genuinely curious.

I smiled, feeling the warmth of the morning’s experience wash over me again. “It was good. A little strange, but good. I discovered I can sing.”

Aiden smiled. “Of course you can. The person in charge of the Christmas musicals will likely knock on your door soon. He always said I… you… have the voice of an angel. Meanwhile, I discovered that I should stick to singing in the shower where no one must suffer the agony of my singing.”

I winced. “Yes. I could put a herd of howling cats to shame.”

Aiden chuckled. “So what if I have the voice of a strangled sasquatch. I get to be a guy. A manly man that gets to sit in front of the television with Dad watching…”

“Soccer.” I finished for him. “How was it?”

“I really enjoyed it, and since I used to, and now you, play soccer, I think Dad thought I had secretly been holding out on him all these years.”

I laughed. “I loved our time watching soccer together.”

“Better than having to attend church, my little angel.”

I blushed at the term of endearment.

There was a comfortable silence for a moment, the kind that didn’t need to be filled with words. Then, Aiden got out of the car and came around to open my door, just like he had earlier. He walked me to the front steps, his hand brushing lightly against mine, and I felt that same spark of warmth again.

We stood there, close enough that I could feel the heat of his breath. My heart pounded, and I found myself leaning in, wanting to close the distance between us. But just as I was about to make my move, I noticed the curtain in the front window twitch, and I froze.

Aiden must have seen it too because he pulled back slightly, his expression turning sheepish. “I guess this is goodnight,” he said, his voice soft.

“Yes,” I replied, feeling a little disappointed but also relieved. “Goodnight.”

We hugged awkwardly, both of us aware of the eyes watching from inside the house. It was a quick, almost formal embrace, but it left me feeling warm all the same.

“I will call you later,” Aiden said as he stepped back, giving me a small smile. “And will I get to see you tomorrow after school?”

I nodded, returning his smile. “Ugh… Don’t remind me about school. Definitely.”

With one last glance, he turned and headed back to the car, and I watched him drive away, my heart still fluttering from the almost-kiss. I stood there for a moment longer, trying to process everything that had happened that day before finally heading inside.

As I closed the door behind me, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation for what was to come. Everything had changed and continued changing. I had no idea what the future held. But for now, I was happy. And that was enough.

***

I woke up to the sound of my alarm, the early morning light barely peeking through the curtains. My first day at Foothills Academy. I lay there for a moment as the nerves built and the reality of the situation came upon me. I was going to a new school in a new life. It was overwhelming, but also thrilling in a way I couldn’t quite explain. On a good note, it would not be like church where everyone knew me, and I didn’t know them.

Rolling out of bed, I padded over to the closet where my new uniform hung. I ran my fingers over the fabric, feeling the smoothness of the dark blue blazer, the crispness of the white blouse. The short skirt was a little out of my comfort zone, but paired with the leggings, it didn’t feel too revealing. As I dressed, I couldn’t help but think of Battle Royale, the way the students in that movie looked in their uniforms; sharp and a little dangerous. I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror, and for a moment, I saw a young woman who was very pretty, somewhat confident, more due to the look of the uniform, and ready to take on whatever the day threw at her.

I fastened the last button on the blazer and smoothed out my skirt. The uniform was more than just clothes; it was like putting on armor, something that made me feel prepared. There was something about the neat lines and classic look that made me feel like I belonged, even if I was still getting used to everything. At least with the uniform I didn’t have to question if I was overdressed or underdressed.

Breakfast was toast, eggs, and a cup of tea that I barely had time to sip. Mother was already waiting by the door, her car keys in hand. “Ready, sweetheart?” she asked, her smile warm but tinged with possibly some of the same nervous excitement I felt.

“Ready as I will ever be,” I replied, trying to sound more confident than I felt.

The drive to school was quiet, both of us lost in our thoughts. When we pulled up in front of Foothills Academy, I couldn’t help but gape a little. The building was grand, with tall, ivy-covered walls and arched windows that made it look like something out of an old-world Ivy League campus. It was the kind of place that felt steeped in history, like it had stories to tell if you just listened closely enough.

Mother gave my hand a squeeze as I opened the car door. “You’re going to do great,” she said, her eyes full of encouragement.

“Thank you, Mother,” I said, forcing a smile as I stepped out onto the sidewalk.

I stood there for a moment, just taking it all in. The grandeur of the school, the students milling about in their uniforms, the way everything seemed so polished, perfect, and posh. It was intimidating, but also exciting. This was a fresh start, a chance to be whoever I wanted to be. There was freedom in that even if I missed the security of my friends and my old school.

Taking a deep breath, I headed inside, following the signs until I found the office. The interior of the school was just as impressive as the exterior. It had dark wood paneling, polished floors, and a sense of order that seemed to permeate everything. I walked up to the front desk, where a friendly-looking secretary smiled at me.

“Good morning! You must be Mia. Welcome to Foothills Academy,” she said, handing me a packet with my schedule and other information. “The principal would like to see you before you head to class.”

I nodded, clutching the packet to my chest as she led me to the principal’s office. The principal was a tall, stern-looking man with silver hair and glasses perched on the edge of his nose. He stood when I entered, extending a hand in greeting.

“Mia, welcome to our school. I’m Principal Thornton,” he said, his voice deep and commanding. “I understand you’re new here, so I wanted to personally go over some of the rules and expectations we have at Foothills Academy.”

I nodded, feeling a little like I was under a spotlight. He went over the basics of the uniform guidelines, academic expectations, and the importance of upholding the school’s reputation. It was all a little overwhelming, but I nodded along as I tried to absorb everything.

“We have high standards here,” Principal Thornton said, his eyes serious as they met mine. “But I have no doubt you will rise to meet them. Now, let’s get you to your homeroom.”

He signaled to a student who had been waiting in the hallway. She was a tall, poised girl with her hair neatly tied back. She smiled at me as I stepped out of the office.

“I’m Cindy. I will show you to your homeroom,” she said kindly, and I couldn’t help but feel a little relieved.

“Thanks,” I said, following her through the maze of hallways. The school was even bigger on the inside than it looked from the outside, and I was grateful for the help.

As we walked, I couldn’t stop thinking about all the changes in my life. New classes, new friends, a new body, and new experiences. It was all so different from anything I had ever known, but in a strange way, it felt like I was exactly where I was supposed to be.

***

Cindy sat down across from me as I ate my lunch in the cafeteria. “Well? What do you think?”

I wasn’t sure how to answer that. “The school is amazing. The teachers… are they all so stoic and stodgy?”

Cindy laughed. “Yes. Absolutely.”

Cindy glanced up and rolled her eyes. I followed her gaze as one of the guys was coming our way.

“Brace yourself, girl. You’re fresh meat.”

I was about to ask why I needed to brace myself when the guy stopped at our table. He was the epitome of good genes and lots of money.

“Hello Cindy. I was hoping you would introduce me to the new girl. She’s hot.”

I had never been called hot before. This was the type of guy I avoided when I was Aiden, predominantly because I didn’t like wearing my underwear over my head.

The guy leaned on the table and squatted down some, so he was eye level with me. He took a long glance at my chest that made me want to pull my blazer tighter around me.

“You are fresh from Milan?”

Cindy rolled her eyes again.

“Milan?” I tried to not look as confused as I felt.

The guy leaned on the table a little further, a smug smile playing on his lips as he delivered the cheesiest pickup line I had ever heard. “I assume you are a model and fresh from the runways of Milan.”

I blinked at him as he had caught me completely off guard. Was this really happening? No one had ever hit on me before. Not when I was Aiden. Now here I was, in a completely different body, and some guy thought I was fresh off a runway. It was bizarre, to say the least.

Cindy, who was sitting across from me, stifled a giggle, clearly amused by the whole situation. Meanwhile, I sat there, feeling a mix of repulsion, intimidation, and slightly flattered. I mean, sure, being called a model wasn’t the worst thing in the world, but the way this guy was leering at me made my skin crawl.

I scrambled to come up with a response, something that would politely get him to back off. “Uh, thanks,” I said awkwardly, trying to force a smile but probably just looking like I was in pain. “But, um, I’m definitely not a model.”

He didn’t seem to take the hint, his grin widening as he leaned in closer. “Could’ve fooled me. So, what’s your name, beautiful?”

Beautiful. The word sent a jolt of discomfort through me. This was so new, so weird. I suddenly had a newfound appreciation for what women had to deal with every day.

I glanced at Cindy, hoping for some kind of rescue, but she just raised an eyebrow, clearly enjoying the show. Great. I was on my own.

“Mia,” I said, my voice coming out a bit higher than I intended. “And you are?”

“Derek Prince,” he replied smoothly, as if he was expecting me to swoon or something. “So, Mia, how about you and I grab a coffee after school? I can show you around town, give you the insider’s tour.”

I stared at him, trying to process what was happening. Did guys really talk like this? Was this some kind of game I was suddenly supposed to know the rules of?

“I’m actually from around here,” I started, trying to find the right words. “And I’m... kind of busy after school. Lots of, you know, studying and... stuff.”

Derek’s smile didn’t falter. If anything, it grew wider. “Come on, a girl like you shouldn’t be wasting her time on studying. Let me show you a good time.”

I felt my irritation rising. This guy just wasn’t getting it. “Look, Donald,” I said, trying to channel some of the confidence I used to have as Aiden. Not that I had all that much when I was Aiden, “I appreciate the offer, but I’m really not interested.”

But he still didn’t back down. “My name is Derek, not Donald, and you’re not interested yet,” he said with a wink. “Women can’t resist my charms. You will say yes eventually, so why not now?”

I rolled my eyes, unable to help myself. This was getting ridiculous. “I’m sure you might be considered charming by some, Derek, but I’m not one of them. Besides, I have a boyfriend.”

He kept on going. Oh my God.

“A boyfriend? Why isn’t he here next to you? You’re just saying that to get rid of me. Show me a picture of you and him on your phone.”

Something I needed to rectify. Any real couple would have pictures together. “Show me yours first.”

“What?”

“I will show you a picture of my boyfriend on my phone if you show me a picture of your boyfriend on your phone.”

Cindy snorted, clearly struggling to keep her laughter in check.

Derek, however, just shrugged like he wasn’t fazed at all. “Alright, alright. Don’t get your panties in an uproar,” he said, finally straightening up. “But when you change your mind, you know where to find me.”

With one last smile, Derek sauntered off, clearly convinced that he had made some kind of positive impression on me. I watched him go, feeling a mix of relief and frustration.

“Wow,” Cindy said, finally letting out the laugh she had been holding in. “A lot of girls would have fallen for that. I’m impressed.” She grinned. “I’m afraid you might get a lot of that here being new and so pretty. But I’m sure you’re used to it.”

I groaned, dropping my head into my hands. I was definitely not used to it. I might have to ask Aiden how he handled it.

***

The afternoon was only marginally better. Since the weather was still decent, we were outside for our physical education class, and I got to play soccer. I loved playing soccer and feeling how my body moved. Every subtle bounce of my breasts and the light bobbing of my hair was exhilarating. I was also surprisingly good at soccer.

As the class ended, I was still catching my breath from the soccer game and feeling the lingering warmth in my muscles and energy from the game. The other students were heading toward the change rooms, but something caught my eye near the edge of the field. Two guys were standing by a gardener, who was cleaning up the grounds. At first, I thought they were just talking, but then I saw them toss some trash on the ground right in front of him. The gardener bent down to pick it up, and that's when one of them kicked him in the butt.

My heart froze and anger fueled me. I could hear their voices, mocking him, telling him he was too stupid to be anything more than a gardener. Fury welled up inside me. Without thinking, I yelled, “Hey! Stop it! That’s not right!”

The two boys turned toward me, their expressions shifting from surprise to something else. When they saw me, I could tell they weren’t expecting to be confronted by someone like me. One of them smirked, his eyes raking over me in a way that made my skin crawl and I quickly reminded myself I was no longer a guy.

“You should mind your own business,” he said, stepping closer. “Or better yet, mind ours.”

Before I could respond, the bell rang, echoing across the field. They exchanged a glance, clearly not wanting to be late for their next class. With a final sneer in my direction, they turned and walked off, laughing as they went. One of them paused to look back at me before turning back to his friend. “I love it when pretty girls have ponytails. Easier to control them when…” I could no longer hear their words as they were too far away. Good riddance.

I turned to the gardener, feeling a rush of guilt for not stepping in sooner. “I’m so sorry,” I said, stepping forward to help him with the trash. But as I reached out, he quickly averted his gaze, hiding his face from me. He muttered something under his breath, then hurried away, leaving me standing there, trash still scattered on the ground.

I watched him go, my heart heavy and full of anger and regret. But there wasn’t time to dwell on it. I had to get changed before I was late too.

At the end of the school day, I spotted Mother’s car waiting at the curb, and a wave of relief washed over me. As I slid into the passenger seat, she smiled at me with her gentle, reassuring smile she always seemed to have. “How was your first day, sweetheart?” she asked, pulling away from the school.

I hesitated for a moment, trying to gather my thoughts. “It was... different,” I started, glancing out the window. “I mean, I met a new friend, Cindy. She helped me find my way around, and we had lunch together. But then there was this guy, Derek, who wouldn’t stop hitting on me. It was so weird, Mother. I wasn’t sure how to handle it.”

Mother chuckled softly. “Welcome to the world of being the pretty new girl,” she said, glancing over at me. “Give it a few days and the newness will wear off. Besides, it seems like you have a boyfriend now and you can tell all those other guys to back off.”

“Some guys just don’t take the hint,” I mumbled, still not entirely sure how I felt about the whole thing. “But it wasn’t just that. I played soccer during gym, which was fun, but it just... wasn’t the same. I miss my friends at my old school. I miss knowing everyone, you know?”

Her smile softened, and she reached over to give my hand a squeeze. “I know it’s hard, Mia. Change always is. But it’s only your first day. Give it some time. You might be surprised at how quickly you will start to feel at home.”

I nodded, knowing she was right but still wishing things could go back to the way they were. Sort of. With everything but changing back into Aiden.

When we pulled into the driveway, I noticed someone waiting on the front porch. Aiden. My heart skipped a beat, and a smile tugged at my lips.

“May I talk to Aiden for a bit?” I asked as we parked, glancing over at Mother.

She looked at me with a knowing smile, nodding. “Of course. Just remember, homework first, and dinner will be ready soon. Don’t talk too long.”

“Thanks, Mother,” I said, hopping out of the car and heading toward the porch where Aiden was waiting.

As soon as I reached him, Aiden took my hands in his, his expression warm and reassuring. “Hey, Mia,” he said, his voice soft. “You look great in that uniform. Much better than I had thought it would look. You really pull off the whole ‘charming schoolgirl’ vibe.”

I laughed, feeling a little lighter at his words and doing a complete spin for him. “Thanks. It was... an eye-opening day, to say the least.’

“I’m sure it was. I missed you though.” Aiden said, giving my hands a gentle tug. “But hey, I’ve got some good news. I think I have got a lead on Avery Thompson. We could go talk to him tomorrow night to see if he knows anything that can help us.”

I felt both excited and nervous at the thought of taking another step toward figuring out the mystery surrounding Ann’s murder. “That’s great, Aiden. Really. I just... I hope we’re ready for whatever we find.”

As we stood there with the conversation lulling, it was a little awkward. We had gone from just being friends, to being each other, to now being in a relationship with each other. I barely knew what to talk about. “How was your day?”

“It was hard to focus thinking about those rich, handsome guys at Foothills Academy hitting on you.”

“There was only one guy that hit on me, and I set him straight. I said I have a boyfriend.”

Aiden smiled. “I’m the boyfriend, right?”

“Of course, you are!”

“Just checking. You know…” his voice lowered to a mere whisper. “…you make a better Mia than I ever was. If some guy had hit on me, I would have run away and found a giant coat to wear.” He paused a moment. “Uhm… Naomi found me at lunch today. She asked me to the Sadie Hawkin’s dance.”

“That skank! I told her you were my boyfriend!”

“I told her thank you, but that I was in love with you, and I was planning on taking you out on a date that night.”

I bit my lower lip. “Are you?”

“About the date? Yes? If your parents let us.”

I hit him on his arm. An arm that was more solid than I remembered mine ever being. Come to think of it, seeing myself from Mia’s perspective, I hadn’t been as unattractive as I thought I was. “I meant, in love with me.”

“Oh…” Aiden ran his hand through his hair. “Yes, Mia. I’m in love with you.”

His words filled me with warmth and a sense of security I needed, and for a moment, everything felt perfect. Even in the middle of all the chaos, Aiden had a way of making me feel like everything would turn out alright.

“Thanks, Aiden,” I said softly, looking up at him. “I don’t know what I would do without you. I’m in love with you too.”

He squeezed my hands one last time and glanced at the window before letting go. “Now, go do your homework, and I will see you tomorrow.”

As I watched him walk away, I couldn’t help but feel a strong tug in my heart for him. I was a woman. A young woman that was in love. It made me giddy.

***

The next day as I walked between classes with the usual clamor of students filling the hallways. My mind was wandering, still adjusting to the rhythm of this new school and my own body, when something caught my eye. I stopped abruptly, my feet rooted to the spot, as a photo on the wall pulled me in. The person behind me cursed as they nearly collided with me, but their words barely registered.

My breath caught in my throat as I ran my fingers across the glass frame, my eyes locked on the image before me. It was a photo of the girls' field hockey team, and there, standing at the edge of the group, was Ann. The same Ann who had switched our bodies. The same ghost we were trying to help find peace.

A cold, creeping dread settled in my chest, and suddenly, I felt it. The unmistakable sensation of being watched. My breath quickened as I spun around, expecting to see someone, anyone, but the hallway was completely empty.

The light around me seemed to dim, as if the day itself was being swallowed by shadows. The once familiar sounds of students and teachers faded, replaced by an eerie silence that pressed in on me from all sides. A chill raced down my spine, and I shivered, my breath coming out in ragged gasps.

I spun again, desperate to shake the feeling, when something brushed against my hair, sending a bolt of terror through me. The action was like a loving caress, but it was sinister and evil leaving me wanting to gag. A hand slid from my hair onto my shoulder, its touch cold and wrong. I turned slowly, my body trembling, and my eyes locked onto the hand. A hand that was dark with dirt and had blood caked under the cracked fingernails. A jagged scar ran between the thumb and index finger, a detail that made my stomach lurch.

My scream tore through the suffocating silence as I whipped around to face whoever, or whatever, had grabbed me, but there was no one. The hallway was empty, just as it had been moments before. Suddenly, the world spun around me and snapped back to normal. The lights were bright again, the sounds of chatter and laughter returned, and students were walking by as if nothing had happened.

My breath was shaky, my heart still racing as I stumbled back from the wall. Fear gripped me, dark and dangerous, making every inch of my skin prickle with unease. I glanced back at the photo, half-expecting Ann’s figure to be staring back at me, but it was just a normal, static image. My heart was beating so fast I was on the verge of fainting. My mind struggled to make sense of what had just happened.

What the hell was that? My legs were still trembling as I forced myself to keep moving down the hallway. Whatever it was, it had felt real, too real. The memory of that hand, dirty and bloody, haunted me as I headed towards my class. A gnawing fear twisted in my gut causing me to fight the bile rising in my throat.

Even as I walked, I felt eyes upon me. I suddenly spun around again, colliding with Derek.

“Well, hello, darling. I knew you would eventually throw yourself at me.”

I ignored him completely, looking around to find the source of the creepy sensation.

Something touched my shoulder, and I blindly reacted. I grabbed a hand, forced the thumb back, and using my free arm, led with my elbow, smacking something solid. There was a yelp and a groan and as things came back into focus, Derek stood before me, his nose was bleeding.

“You bitch! You broke my nose!”

All the other students stopped to stare. Many snickered at Derek.

“Oh my God. I’m so sorry.”

“What’s going on out here!”

I gulped and turned to find Principal Thornton looking back and forth between Derek and me.

***

I texted Mother and Aiden that I had detention. I was sitting outside Principal Thornton's office, the hallway growing dimmer as the sunlight outside faded, dragging the day along with it. The school was emptying out, students and staff alike heading home, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I couldn’t shake the feeling of unease that clung to me. It had all been a misunderstanding. A stupid, awful misunderstanding. But no matter how I replayed the moment in my head, I couldn’t take it back.

When Derek grabbed my shoulder, I reacted instinctively. My fear drove my actions before I even knew what I was doing. And now, Derek was nursing a broken nose, and I was sitting here, waiting for Principal Thornton to decide my fate.

The minutes stretched into what felt like hours, each tick of the clock growing louder in the quiet hallway. Finally, the door to the office creaked open, and Principal Thornton called me in. His stern expression told me everything I needed to know about how my time with him was going to go.

“Sit down, Mia,” he said, his voice a mix of irritation and disappointment. I took a seat, filled with trepidation. He didn’t waste any time, diving straight into the reprimand.

“We have a zero-tolerance policy for violence at this school, Mia,” he began, his eyes narrowing as he leaned forward, resting his elbows on his desk. “What you did to Derek is completely unacceptable. This isn’t the kind of behavior we expect from our students, and it reflects very poorly on you.”

I swallowed hard not sure what I should say as I didn’t want to make the situation any worse. I couldn’t tell him a ghost of a murderer grabbed my shoulder moments before. “It was a misunderstanding,” I managed to say, my voice small. “Derek grabbed my shoulder, and I was startled. I didn’t mean to hurt him. I was just… scared.”

Principal Thornton studied me for a long moment, his expression unreadable. “Scared or not, Mia, this is not how we handle things at Foothills Academy. You are new here, so I will give you that. But let this be a warning. We expect better from you. We teach our students to be thoughtful in their actions. One more incident like this, and you will be facing much more severe consequences. Do you understand?”

I nodded, my throat tight. “Yes, sir. I understand.”

He dismissed me with a stern look and a wave of his hand, and I left the office as quickly as I could. As I stepped out into the now empty school. A strange sensation crept over me, like a pair of eyes were watching me from the shadows. The hallway was eerily quiet, the fading daylight turning the hallway into the same sinister feeling from before.

I tried to shake the feeling as I made my way toward the parking lot, but every creak in the building, every rustle of the bushes outside, made my pulse quicken. My steps became more and more hurried as I approached the door, eager to see Mother’s car waiting for me.

But when I stepped outside, she wasn’t there. I turned back to the school entrance only to find it had locked behind me.

Panic bubbled up in my chest as the strange noises seemed to grow louder. The scrape of metal against brick, the rustling of leaves in the wind. The evening felt oppressive as if the darkness was encircling me. I spun around, half-expecting to see someone lurking in the shadows, but there was no one there. Just the empty parking lot and the ever-darkening sky.

Just as I was about to lose it completely, headlights swept across the lot, and Mother’s car pulled up. Relief washed over me so quickly I almost felt dizzy. I hurried to the car and climbed in, trying to steady my breathing.

The moment I closed the door, Mother turned to me, her expression a combination of concern and frustration. “Detention on your second day, Mia? What happened?”

I hesitated to say anything. The events of the day were still fresh in my mind. “It was a misunderstanding, Mother,” I said, feeling the unsteadiness creep into my voice. “Derek grabbed me, and I reacted. I didn’t mean to hurt him.”

Mother sighed. “Was he trying to take advantage of you?”

“No. Not really. I accidentally collided with him. I thought… He sort of was hitting on me suggesting I had thrown myself at him. I tried to ignore him and looked away but then he grabbed me. It startled me, and I just reacted.”

Mother chuckled and I gaped at her.

“I guess those karate lessons came in handy after all. It sounds like Derek got what he deserved, but this isn’t like your old school. You can’t afford to get in trouble here, Mia.”

“I know,” I muttered, staring out the window as the familiar streets passed by. “I will be more careful.” We passed Maple street and it dawned on me that it was quite close to Foothills Academy.

“You have never got into trouble, Mia. I would be happy to talk to the principal on your behalf if you think it will help.”

“No. That’s all right, Mother. I think it is all taken care of. Thank you for the offer.”

“How are things going with you and Aiden?”

We talked about all sorts of things on the way home and once dinner was cleaned up and I finished my homework, it was already late. I couldn’t shake the unease that had settled in my chest. Something was off about the day, about the school, about everything.

Being a school night, there was a house rule that lights out was at nine and it was already 9:20 by the time I got ready for bed. I texted Aiden and apologized again. He replied that we needed to talk and that since my school started a bit earlier than his, he could drive me to school. The text finished with “Good night, babe. Love you.” That made my heart swell.

***

The next morning, I entered the kitchen to discover Mother had already made breakfast.

“Good morning, sweetheart. I will be ready to drive you to school as soon as you are finished and brush your teeth.”

I bit down on a piece of toast, realizing for the first time that it tasted a little more vibrant than toast tasted before. “Aiden said he would drive me to school this morning.”

Mother frowned. “Just this once. You both have school and futures to consider, and you don’t need to be distracted. Father and I spoke last night, and you have had a lot of changes in your life lately. You’re going to a new school, and now you have a boyfriend. We think you should limit your time with Aiden and focus on your schoolwork so you can go to the university of your choice.”

“But…”

“No buts, young lady. You can spend time with Aiden on weekends only if your schoolwork is finished.”

I put my toast down, suddenly not hungry. “Is this about yesterday?”

Mother wiped her hands on a towel. “A little, Mia. This is an important time of your life. You are young and beautiful and easily distracted. You have such a bright future ahead of you. We don’t want you getting off track and losing perspective.”

“You don’t understand.”

“I think I understand more than you realize, Mia. I was going to be a lawyer. I had top grades coming out of school. I had my future planned. When I met your father, I lost focus and now I regret not keeping the career goals I had set for myself. I don’t want you to do the same. If Aiden loves you, then he will accept this and support you for your own sake.”

I frowned, not saying anything more. I headed up to my room, brushed my teeth, and left the house. Aiden was leaning against my old car with a smile as bright as the morning sun. We hugged and he opened the door for me. Once we were a block away, I burst into tears. Aiden pulled over and wrapped his arms around me.

“Mia? What’s going on? Are you… Are you wanting to switch back?”

“No…” I sniffed. “The school is creepy… I broke Derek’s nose… Mother says I can’t see you unless it’s the weekend.”

“But you’re good still being Mia?”

I cried all the harder. “I get it… you want your body back.”

“No, Mia. I don’t. I love being Aiden.”

I sniffed and pulled back a little, staring into his eyes. “You’re not leaving me for Naomi, are you?”

“Where is this coming from, Mia? Oh… Oh! You’re about to have your period.” Aiden laughed.

“What has this to do with me having a period? Why are you laughing?”

“A day to two days before my period, my emotions were always all over the place.”

“You think I’m just being emotional because I’m going to have my period?”

“Of course, Mia. It all makes sense.”

“You have that get out of jail free look again, Aiden. I don’t think it has anything to do with me having a period soon… although that is interesting and somewhat exciting. I have been feeling like someone is watching me.”

“Well, I’m sure they are.”

I narrowed my eyes a little at Aiden.

“Let me explain. For the first few days after our switch, I was completely inwardly focused. My brain was overloaded processing all the different sensations of being in this body. Over the past few days, I have sensed more of what is happening around me. I’m noticing how I move through the world and becoming more aware of others. As my brain normalizes, my awareness is expanding. I suspect you are just becoming aware of others and when guys are looking at you. You are so beautiful, Mia. Guys are looking at you all the time.”

It made sense. “Maybe you’re right. But that doesn’t negate the new rule you and I can’t see each other until weekends.”

Aiden leaned over and kissed me. It was one of those kisses you see in the movies where the guy cups the girl’s face with his strong hands and kisses her with enough passion to take their breath away.

I smiled as we pulled away. “Wow… that was wonderful.”

“I love you, Mia. Your parents are just doing what they do best. They are protecting you. We will make it work. I want to be with you too, but, for now, we need to keep your parents happy.”

I nodded. “I love you too, Aiden. My parents are sort of your parents, which are now my parents. What about Ann? How can we help her if we are not together?”

“I should drive so you get to school on time. We can talk on the way.”

“Yes. It wouldn’t be good if I was late.”

Aiden pulled back onto the road. “I went to see Avery Thompson last night.”

“I guess my detention messed up us going together.”

“It wasn’t worth the visit. He’s nearing sixty and you could tell he was still upset about it. The only useful tidbit I got was that he remembered Ann telling him she thought she was being followed from school the days leading up to her murder.”

I shivered. “I thought I was being followed yesterday. That’s when Derek grabbed me, and I broke his nose. I was so frightened.”

“Is that what your detention was about? You broke some guy’s nose?”

I blurted out all that happened in rapid-fire sentences. I was just catching my breath when Aiden responded.

“You are a much better woman than I ever was, Mia. I remember taking those karate classes, but the thought of some guy grabbing me and me hitting them… that would have never happened. I would have screamed and run. I’m so proud of you.”

“Wait! That’s what you care about? I had a supernatural experience with some creepy hand feeling my hair and grabbing me and you zero in on me elbowing a guy?”

“I was trying to encourage you, Mia. That’s awesome you defended yourself. I would have cowered in the girl’s bathroom the rest of the day. As for the creepy ghost thing, maybe you are experiencing echoes of Ann’s life. We are clearly connected to her.”

“There was something else I have noticed. I sort of look like Ann.”

“I noticed that as well, but the killer must be old and decrepit or long gone by now if you think…”

“Ann’s boyfriend is still alive. Ann said she believed the killer was still alive. The killer could easily still be out there. What about Brittany?”

Aiden glanced at me. “Brittany? My babysitter?”

“Yes. Even though Ann’s body was never found, the police must have had enough evidence to suggest she had been murdered and raped. Sounds like the same M.O. as with Brittany. A pretty girl, age eighteen, raped and murdered. I recall you saying they never captured her killer.”

“You’re right, Mia, but assuming Ann’s killer was twenty, he would be what? Sixty now? I would hardly think a sixty-year-old guy is roaming around finding pretty girls to kill.”

I remembered the hand on my shoulder and shuddered. “So, what’s next?”

“I say we get through the week and go see Ann again Friday night. Oh… my parents would like you to come to dinner Saturday night.”

“I would like that. I miss them.”

Aiden parked the car at my school, and he opened the door for me. “Have a good day, love.”

I moved closer, got up on my toes, and kissed him. “Thanks for the ride, handsome.”

Aiden beamed as he got back into the car.

***

All morning, I contemplated what Aiden had said about the inward focus after our switch and how he was slowly recognizing those around him more and more. I noticed I was paying less attention to myself and how I moved and began noticing how my world around me related to me. His theory made sense.

It was a little frightening as now I was more aware that all the guys were ogling me everywhere I went. I started to see what Aiden had been saying and maybe, just maybe, my experiences feeling like I was being watched were nothing other than I was noticing when I was being watched.

This eased my mind and even as I stopped to stare at Ann’s picture again, I felt none of the trepidation or fear that I felt last time.

I headed to gym class with my bag slung over my shoulder. The laughter and gossip of the other girls resounded through the room. Today was swimming, something I was looking forward to. The girls’ changing room was a flurry of activity, but not the way I had imagined it would be. Part of me had expected it to be all posh, with plush couches and luxuries not found in the boys’ changing rooms. Instead, it was just functional, with the usual rows of beige metal lockers, benches, and the faint smell of chlorine in the air. At least the smell of body odor and Axe deodorant was wonderfully absent.

As I found a spot and started to change into my one-piece school swimsuit, cap, and goggles, I glanced around and caught glimpses of the other girls as they slipped out of their uniforms and into their swimwear. I was surprised at how little excitement their bodies stirred in me. I thought there might be some thrill, some strange fascination with being in the girls’ changing room, but it was all surprisingly ordinary. It was just a bunch of girls getting ready for gym class, no different than I used to with the boys. What was gloriously missing from the experience were the jocks flicking towels at everyone and their constant bragging about their female conquests.

Once I was suited up, I made my way to the pool. The cool, humid air hit me as I stepped out onto the tiles, and I felt a little shiver run down my spine. Our gym teacher explained what she wanted us to do, and I adjusted my goggles and slipped into the cool water. I noticed immediately how different I felt in the water. I was more buoyant. As I began to swim laps with the rest of the girls, I found the rhythm of my strokes and the gentle sound of the water rushing past my ears almost soothing.

Then it happened.

At first, it was subtle, like a gentle touch of my ankle. I ignored it, thinking it was just a cramp or maybe the hand of the girl behind me hitting my leg. But then, the touch felt like a hand had wrapped around my ankle and the tug became stronger, more insistent. Panic shot through me as I realized I was being pulled down. I kicked out, trying to break free, but it was no use. Something had a hold on me. Something cold and relentless.

I tried to scream, but all that came out were bubbles, my air escaped me as I was dragged deeper. The water around me darkened, and the light from above turned into faint, flickering rays struggling to penetrate the depths. I looked down in terror and saw a scarred hand gripping my ankle, the fingers gnarled and dirty, nails jagged and broken.

My chest tightened as I struggled, and fear twisted into something primal and desperate. I kicked harder, clawing at the water, trying to get to the surface, but the hand yanked me down again. My mind raced frantically trying to find a way to get free when suddenly I wasn’t in my swimsuit anymore. I was fully dressed in my school uniform, the fabric heavy and clinging to my body, pulling me down even more.

The darkness around me deepened and I could feel another hand now. It was clawing up my legs, my waist, pulling at me, dragging me further into the abyss. I thrashed wildly, every instinct screaming at me to get away, but I was trapped. One hand reached up, gripped my head with icy fingers, and shoved me toward the pool’s tiled wall. The impact was sharp and brutal, a sickening crack that echoed through my skull.

The water around me turned red, twisting and curling like tendrils of smoke. Pain shot through my skull, intense and unforgiving. Everything around me began to blur, the edges of the world fading as I struggled to hold on. My vision dimmed, and just before everything went black, I felt the grip tighten, pulling me again.

***

“Mia!” a voice shouted through the haze. The world snapped back to reality with a jolt. I was no longer in the abyss, no longer drowning in that dark water. I was back in the pool, gasping for air and spitting up water as strong hands pulled me up and out of the water.

My chest heaved as I choked down breath after breath, my vision swam as I tried to make sense of what had just happened. My gym teacher’s face hovered above me, concern and fear etched into her features. “Mia, are you okay?” she asked, her voice anxious.

I gave a weak nod. My head was throbbing. When I reached up to touch it, a sharp pain made me flinch. A welt was swelling on the side of my head, a painful souvenir from whatever I had just been through. My whole body was shaking, the fear still coursing through me. I didn’t know what had happened. I didn’t know if it was real or just another twisted hallucination. All I knew was I never wanted to feel that kind of fear again.

“You hit your head on the end wall, Mia.”

“What?”

“You hit your head. You must have had your eyes closed.”

“But… the hand… pulling me down… You didn’t see that?”

“I’m taking you to the school nurse. You might have a concussion.”

***

I was still in my bathing suit with a towel wrapped around me, dripping on the bed in the nurse’s exam room. My head hurt. It had all been so real.

“Follow the light for me, Mia.”

I did.

“I think you are fine, but we will wait a half hour and check you again before I release you.”

I nodded, wishing I had my phone with me. I tried to piece together what I had seen. In my vision, I was clothed in my school uniform. What did it all mean?

I patiently waited the half an hour until the nurse checked me thoroughly once more and released me. Gym class was over by the time I made my way back to the changing room. I was all alone in there.

Every little sound made me flinch. My nerves were on a frayed edge. I hurried through my shower with trembling hands as I scrubbed. Every few seconds, I would glance over my shoulder, half-expecting something to lunge out of the shadows or pull me back into another nightmare. The tension I felt was suffocating, like something unseen was watching and waiting. When I finally stepped out of the changing room dry and dressed, I felt a wave of relief. I was so grateful to be away from that place. But the lingering dread, that sense of something lurking just out of sight, wouldn’t let go.

I groaned when I realized it was only lunchtime. I sat at a table by myself, picking at my food when Cindy plopped down across from me.

“Hey, new girl.”

I smiled weakly.

“Not having a good week, Mia?”

“You could say that.”

“I heard you beat up Derek yesterday. That is so badass. You’re my hero.”

“It wasn’t like that. He startled me when he grabbed me, and I just reacted. I’m pretty sure I broke his nose.”

“Oh, you broke his nose all right. He looks like a bloody raccoon this morning.”

“I need to apologize to him.”

Cindy raised her eyebrow. “He probably deserved it. Don’t go soft on him now. Besides, he claims he broke it playing football. He’s getting lots of attention from the girls now. You did him a favor.”

“I still feel badly.”

“Just a heads-up. I’m having a birthday sleepover next Friday night. I hope you can come.”

“I will check with my parents and Aiden but sounds like fun.”

“Aiden is your boyfriend?”

“Yes.”

“How come he doesn’t have lunch with you?”

“He goes to the public high school. I went there until this week. My parents enrolled me here partway through the year. Yay.”

“That sucks. Was it because you were a badass in the other school?”

I laughed. “My parents weren’t pleased with the general direction of public education.”

Cindy nodded. “I sort of like the badass concept better. You should stick with it. Gotta run. See you, new girl.”

***

The week had flown by and thankfully there were no more visions or incidents where I felt like I was being watched. Aiden had been right. I was being watched. All the time. Guys just don’t realize how creepy it feels to women when their eyes practically disrobe us.

Aiden was also right about my period. On Wednesday I started to feel bloated, and that night, I started bleeding. I was both prepared with what I needed to have with me, but unprepared at the same time. I had no idea how much it would play with my emotions, or the physical discomfort associated with it.

Even though I didn’t feel great physically, emotionally I was super happy. By Friday afternoon, my period had lessened greatly, and my emotions had levelled out. I was in my room finishing my homework and thinking about my new life as Mia.

I was completely enamored with being a young woman. I loved every second of it, including my period even though it wasn’t very comfortable and sort of messy. Being female was more than I could have ever imagined. I still hadn’t brought myself to orgasm yet. The first few days I was overstimulated by everything. Then I struggled because of the visions. Then I had my period. It was, however, on my mind and I thought I was finally ready.

I was daydreaming about being with Aiden when the doorbell rang. Even though I raced for the door, Father beat me to it.

“Aiden. It’s nice to see you. I’m assuming you are here to see Mia?”

“Yes, sir. We were going to Brad’s tonight for games night.”

“And Brad’s parents are home?”

“Yes, sir.”

“We expect you to bring her back no later than ten.”

“I will make certain of that. Sir, now that Mia and I are dating, my parents would also like to spend time with Mia. They invited her to dinner tomorrow.”

“That’s a good idea. We should have you over soon as well.”

“I would like that.”

I had paused on the steps, but with their conversation wrapping up, I continued down and hugged Father.

“Have fun tonight, sweetheart.”

“Thank you.”

As soon as we were out the door, Aiden hugged me. We dared not kiss with Mother and Father hovering near the windows.

“This week has been miserable not being able to see you and only talking to you via text messages and the odd phone call.”

Aiden smiled as he opened the car door for me. “You’re saying you missed me.”

“Very much so.”

Once Aiden was in the car and we were moving, I faced him. “Why are we going to Brad’s place?”

“He’s been talking nonstop about Halloween night. He wants to come tonight to see how we pranked him.”

“Is that a good idea, Aiden?”

“You know Brad better than I do. Maybe if we can convince it was real, he will be able to help us.”

“But what about the whole thing about you and me switching bodies? If it is suddenly real, won’t he wonder what really happened last Friday night?”

“Let’s cross that bridge if we must. My guess is that Brad will be so blown away by the fact Ann is real, he won’t even remember that happening on Halloween, and, after all, it is very implausible.”

“What could he possibly help us with? We’re at a standstill.”

“Let’s just see what happens, Mia.”

“I was kind of hoping you were lying about going to Brad’s so we can make out, then go see Ann.”

Aiden grinned. “I do like the sound of that. Maybe we can get time tomorrow to make out. Oh… Naomi asked me to the dance again.”

I felt myself tense. “And?”

“You’re so cute when you get jealous. I said no. Again.”

“I’m anxious to go to church on Sunday to have a little heart to heart with her.”

We stopped at Brad’s house, which still had Halloween decorations up. I sighed.

“It won’t be that bad tonight.”

I started to get out of the car, but Aiden touched my arm. “Let me, please?”

“It’s endearing and makes me feel all gooey inside, but it is less efficient than just letting me get in and out on my own.”

“I just want to remind you that you are special all the time.”

I smiled, “Okay.”

Aiden jumped out of the car, ran around to my side, and opened the door for me. He then offered a hand to help me out.

“That’s sweet. Thank you, Aiden.” I gave him a kiss just as Brad opened the front door of his house.

“Get a room, you two!”

I leaned into Aiden and whispered into his ear, “I wish we could get a room.”

I was surprised Aiden blushed. It made me feel a little powerful seeing him squirm.

Once inside Brad’s 1970’s styled living room, Aiden quickly took a seat and placed a pillow on his lap. I snuggled up next to him.

Brad was staring at me.

“What?” I asked.

“It’s just… You look pretty in your dress. I don’t usually see you without pants on.”

“Thank you, Brad. I have to wear a skirt to school every day now.”

“Oh, yeah. How is that going?”

Aiden laughed. “She broke some guy’s nose that was hitting on her.”

Brad’s mom came in with some treats for us all. “You did what, Mia?”

“It’s no big deal. He grabbed me, I sort of spun and hit his nose with my elbow.”

“Good for you, Mia! We women need to be able to stand up for ourselves.” Brad’s mom exclaimed. “I bet he won’t grab you again.”

Brad rubbed his hands together. “What are we playing tonight?”

“Life,” Aiden blurted out. “Maybe this time I will take Mia as my bride.”

Brad shook his head. “There’s more sap in here than a Canadian maple syrup farm.”

***

The three of us stood outside 224 Maple Street. I glanced up at the flickering streetlight and then back to the dilapidated house. I had been through enough the past week that the place just wasn’t as frightening to me anymore.

“I’m guessing you used multiple projectors of the same image and introduced particles in the air to reflect Ann’s body. It must have taken you guys a long time to line them up. How did I feel Ann’s kiss? Was it you, Mia?”

I stared at Brad, feeling a bit queasy at the idea of kissing him.

Aiden put his arm around Brad’s shoulder and with his other arm gestured towards the house. “It was all real, Brad.”

Brad bent over laughing. “Next you will tell me the Easter Bunny is real. You know I’m onto you both.”

“Brad,” I took a deep breath as I tried to formulate my thoughts. “We’re here tonight because we need to ask Ann questions.”

“Right… I can’t wait to see what you have planned for me this time, but don’t think I will fall for it. I knew right away it was all fake last time.”

We stepped up onto the front porch of 224 Maple Street, the creaking of the old wood beneath our feet somehow louder in the silence of the evening. The house loomed over us. The dark boarded up windows were like hollow eyes that watched our every move. Aiden was beside me, his face set with determination, while Brad lingered a step behind, glancing around like he expected something to jump out at him.

“This place gives me the creeps,” Brad muttered, his voice low as he peered up at the broken eaves. “I can’t believe we’re back here.”

Before I could respond, the front door creaked open on its own, the sound slow and drawn out, like it was protesting. Brad jumped back, his eyes wide. “Did you see that? The door opened all on its own and it’s fixed!” he exclaimed, taking a hesitant step forward, craning his neck as if expecting to see someone on the other side.

Aiden exchanged a quick glance with me, then stepped inside. I followed, the air in the foyer heavy with a strange energy. As soon as we were inside, the door slammed shut behind us with a force that made me jump. Brad immediately started inspecting the door, running his fingers along the edges, searching for wires or something that might explain it.

“There’s got to be a mechanism here somewhere,” Brad muttered to himself, his brow furrowed in concentration. “Maybe pressure sensors… or, or magnets?”

Before he could get too far into his investigation, a soft, ethereal voice filled the air. “Mia, Aiden,” Ann greeted us, her voice drifting through the room like a cool breeze. I turned to see her standing in the middle of the foyer, her form shimmering like the edges of a dream.

Brad grinned. “I knew it. Projectors.” He immediately began circling Ann, waving his hands through the air where she stood. “Okay, where’s the projector? Come on, this must be some kind of elaborate trick,” he said, his tone half-accusatory, half-incredulous. “I mean, this isn’t possible!”

Ann simply watched him with an amused expression, her form flickering slightly as if in response to his antics. I watched her closely, noting that the shimmering was more pronounced than it had been before. She seemed weaker.

“Ann,” I began, stepping closer to her, concern tightening in my chest. “You’re… fading. What’s happening?”

She offered me a faint smile, her eyes filled with a sadness that made my heart ache. “The further we get from Halloween night, the less energy I have,” she explained, her voice soft but steady. “My time is running out and I am conserving what energy I have, for it might be needed yet.”

Brad finally stopped circling her, his arms dropping to his sides as he frowned at her, clearly still trying to make sense of everything. But I could barely focus on him. All I could think about was Ann, and how little time she had left.

“Ann, I’m so sorry,” I said, my voice almost a whisper. “We are trying to help you, but we don’t feel we are getting anywhere.”

She shook her head gently. “You’re helping more than you know, Mia. But we don’t have much time. Ask your questions.”

I nodded, swallowing hard as I forced myself to focus. “Ann, I have been having these visions. I was in the hallway when a hand grabbed my shoulder and another in the swimming pool. They felt so real, like I was living through them.”

Ann’s expression darkened slightly, and she reached out to touch my head, her hand passing through my hair in a cold, tingling sensation. “I remember now,” she murmured, her eyes distant as if she was reliving the memories. “I was in Foothills Academy late one evening. I felt like I was being followed and watched. A hand grabbed me, and I ran. I hid in the changing room, thinking I would be safe.”

Her voice wavered, and I could see the fear in her eyes, mirroring the terror I had felt in my visions. “But he found me. I managed to escape to the pool area, but I tripped, and I fell into the water. That’s when he… he tried to pull me under. He knocked my head against the tiles, and everything went dark.”

The horror of what she was saying washed over me, making my skin crawl. I could barely breathe as I listened, the horror of her words sinking into my stomach like stones. “Ann… your murderer,” I said slowly, dreading the answer. “Do you know who he was?”

She shook her head, her eyes meeting mine with a solemn intensity. “He wore a mask. I think he was young and certainly strong. I think he must have worked at the school. Someone who knew the place well, who could move around without raising suspicion. I… it’s not clear to me. I’m sorry.” She paused, her form flickering again, more violently this time. “Mia, be careful. You’re closer to the truth now, but that means you’re in danger. The darkness has noticed you.”

A cold shiver ran down my spine, and I could feel the sense of foreboding creeping in again, stronger than before. “I will,” I promised her, though the words felt hollow. How could I protect myself from something like this? Something so dark, so evil?

The silence was deafening with unspoken fears and the ticking of the clock that Ann couldn’t escape. The realization that what we had all become embroiled in was far from over, that we were only just beginning to uncover the evil lurking beneath the surface, and possibly exposing ourselves to not just visions, but real, tangible danger, left me feeling more vulnerable than ever.

But I couldn’t let Ann down. I couldn’t let her be lost to the shadows forever.

“Let’s go,” Aiden said quietly, his voice breaking through the thick tension. He took my hand, grounding me back in the present. “We will figure this out.”

I nodded, squeezing his hand as we turned to leave but paused and faced Ann. I stepped closer to her and wrapped my arms around her. My voice cracked with emotion. “I’m so sorry this happened to you, Ann.”

When I stepped back, Ann had tears in her eyes.

We stepped back onto the porch, Brad, still looking bewildered, followed us out, casting one last glance back at Ann as the door shut behind us on its own, sealing the house in silence once more.

“Can someone tell me what just happened?”

Aiden stepped in front of Brad and grabbed his shoulders. “It’s real, Brad. We told you that.”

“But… No…” Brad waved his hands in the air. “Laser holograms and micro servo motors…” Brad kept getting more and more pale. His hands went to his mouth. “Oh my god! A ghost kissed me!” He spat into the weed-filled yard. “It was too sophisticated for you two… to much expensive technology. Why didn’t you tell me she was real? How come you two aren’t freaking out?” He pointed back to the house. “There’s a bloody ghost in there.”

We let Brad process as Aiden hugged me.

“I don’t like it when Ann said you are in danger, Mia.”

“Succubus… it was a succubus wanting sex with…”

I motioned with my eyes towards Brad. “Is he going to be all right?”

“How can I ever have sex now? Ann already kissed me… I might be a succubus magnet… they will come and drain my essence.”

“We better get him home. I will meet you in the morning, Mia.”

I leaned in and ran my fingers through Aiden’s hair as I kissed him. “I’m getting my fill of these while Mother and Father are not spying on us. Come along, Brad.”

Brad shuffled his way into the back seat. “…that’s why they want me… I’m larger than most… more energy they can claim and drain…”

***

That night, as I lay in bed, my mind was in turmoil. Seeing a ghost, and having Ann confirm I was reliving her last moments, didn’t help me feel aroused. I had promised myself to explore my new body and yet I just couldn’t do it.

By morning, things had settled. I had a long shower and thought of Aiden kissing me. It didn’t take long for me, especially with such a sensitive body and slick soapy fingers to explore all there was to my body. My orgasm was so powerful, that I sank to the floor of the shower as my shaking legs just couldn’t hold me up anymore.

I could not stop smiling as I got dressed. Just after breakfast, Aiden came over and we decided to go for a walk. The morning air was crisp, with a light breeze that felt refreshing against my skin as we walked side by side down the quiet street.

“So,” Aiden began, his tone light, “I know I have asked you this before, but how has it been for you? You know, being me?”

I glanced over at him, a small smile tugging at my lips. “It’s been… wonderful… and challenging,” I admitted. “I mean, there are things I didn’t expect. Like how much easier it is to just exist without thinking I’m the wrong gender all the time. But at the same time, I find I spend more time getting ready and I can’t seem to get dressed without analyzing my emotions.”

Aiden nodded, his gaze thoughtful. “I get that. For me, it’s been maybe a little different experience than yours. When I was Mia, my biggest issue was fear. I lived my life out of fear and my decisions were fear-based. As Aiden, I feel so much stronger. My fear is gone. There’s a lot to a life as a man I never considered, like how people treat you differently, and how complicated it can be to navigate all that alpha macho hierarchy in the male world.”

“I love being the new me.” We both said it at the same time and laughed.

“No regrets, Aiden?”

“I won’t lie and tell you there is nothing that I miss. If we were suddenly switched back, I wouldn’t enjoy it, but I think I would be a better Mia. I see how strong you are, how beautiful. You are amazing, Mia, and, in some ways, it makes me think I could have been more like you. But I have no regrets and don’t want to go back to being Mia.”

I smiled. “That’s good, because I love being Mia too much. I uhm… thought about you today… in the shower.” I started to blush.

“I think about you every night, Mia.”

“I’m not sure you fully understand what I was saying.” I blushed even more.

Aiden stopped and kissed me passionately. “I fully understood what you said and I can’t stop imagining being intimate with you. This thing is out of control when it comes to you and regular… you know what I mean.”

“I don’t have the vaguest idea what you are hinting at,” I teased.

We walked in comfortable silence for a moment, the crunch of gravel under our feet the only sound between us. It was strange to think that just a short time ago, we had been living completely different lives, experiencing the world from a perspective we had both lived with but struggled with. It was deeply satisfying that the gift Ann had given us felt so right for both of us. I felt I was always meant to be Mia, and it seemed Aiden was always meant to be Aiden. There was a sense of rightness in that.

Eventually, Aiden had to go, and we parted ways with a quick hug and kiss and a promise to see each other later. The rest of the day was spent with Mother and Father, enjoying a rare day of family time. We laughed, talked, and even watched a movie together. It felt good. It was grounding to have that normalcy amidst all the changes in my life.

But as the afternoon wore on, my thoughts drifted to the evening ahead when I would meet Aiden’s, my old parents, for dinner. I wanted to make a good impression, so I chose a conservative dress from my closet. It was a deep blue that flattered my figure without being too flashy. I paired it with simple earrings and let my hair fall naturally over my shoulders.

When we arrived at Aiden’s house, I took a deep breath, reminding myself to stay calm. His parents greeted us warmly, and we sat down to dinner in the cozy dining room that I was so familiar with. It was a bit surreal, seeing Aiden interact with my old parents so easily. I missed them, but the feeling of rightness continued. I knew I still loved them, but watching Aiden with them, I could never remember myself being so warm and casual with them as Aiden was. Perhaps I was never able to truly be myself as Aiden and that kept me from deeply connecting with those around me and my parents.

The meal was delicious, and the conversation flowed easily enough at first. But then came the inevitable question, the one I had been dreading.

“So, Mia,” Aiden’s father said, setting down his fork and giving me a curious look, “what are your plans for the future? Any big goals you’re working toward?”

I paused, caught off guard. The truth was, I hadn’t had much time to think about the future, not with everything that had happened recently. But I knew I had to say something. “Well,” I began, choosing my words carefully, “I’m still figuring things out. But I’m really interested in a career where I could help people work through their challenges and understand themselves better. I’m still exploring options and hoping my passions will guide me.”

Aiden’s mother smiled encouragingly. “That’s wonderful, Mia. It’s so important to have a general direction, even if it’s just a starting point. No need to worry about not having a specific career goal in mind. Many people change their intended profession multiple times in the first few years of college.”

I nodded, knowing I did not give the solid answer they were hoping for but feeling a bit more at ease that they seemed to accept I was still thinking about my future. The rest of the evening passed in a blur of polite conversation and shared laughter. By the time we finished dessert, I felt like I had done a decent job of holding my own, despite my nerves.

As Aiden and I left his house, we walked a block hand-in-hand in relaxed silence before he stopped and turned to face me. “You were great tonight,” he said, his voice soft as he reached out to take my hand. “My, our, parents really liked you.”

“Thanks,” I replied, a shy smile tugging at my lips. “I just wanted to make a good impression.”

“You did,” he assured me, his thumb brushing gently over the back of my hand. Then, without warning, he leaned in and kissed me. It was soft and sweet, leaving me breathless in the best possible way.

When he pulled back, he smiled, a little sheepish. “I should probably take you home,” he said, his voice tinged with regret.

We walked the rest of the way to my house, our hands still entwined. When we reached the front door, he hesitated, his eyes searched mine. For a moment, I thought he might kiss me again, but instead, he pulled me into a warm hug. “I will call you tomorrow,” he promised, his breath warm against my ear.

“Okay,” I whispered, holding onto the moment for as long as I could. Then, with one last smile, I watched him walk away, disappearing into the night.

***

I was eager to go to church the next day, hoping I would run into Naomi. I spotted her several times, but she seemed to be avoiding me. At first, it bothered me, but when the singing started, I was lost in the words and beautiful sounds coming from my mouth. I had never really gone to church, and for the second time I came away from it feeling uplifted.

When church ended, I made a beeline for Naomi and caught up with her just outside the building.

“Are you avoiding me, Naomi?”

“No. Of course not. Why would I be avoiding you?”

“Maybe because you know I would be angry with you for trying to steal Aiden from me.”

Naomi scowled. “It’s just a dance. I’m not stealing your boyfriend.”

“Do you consider me your friend, Naomi?”

“Yes.”

“Then stop trying to take Aiden from me, because if you don’t stop, there will be no friendship. I want to make myself perfectly clear. Aiden is my boyfriend.”

“Yeah. Well, he pretty much told me the same thing, so you have no worries about me taking him away from you. He’s smitten with you.”

“Are we good then? Still friends?”

Naomi hugged me. “Yes. For what it is worth, I’m sorry. You have a good catch there.”

“Have I ever told you about Brad?”

***

Monday morning came all too soon, but even a Monday morning of a school week could not take the smile from my face. I felt so perfect. I was already halfway through my morning routine, brushing my hair into place with practiced ease, my fingers deftly applying a light touch of makeup. It was strange, almost as if I were on autopilot, but it felt so natural, so right. The thought filled me with a quiet happiness that maybe I was finally settling into this new life.

Mother was waiting for me downstairs. We exchanged good mornings, and later as we got into the car, she turned to me with a smile.

“Mia, I think it’s time you took your driver’s test for your learner’s license,” she said, glancing over at me.

I couldn’t help but grin. If only she knew that as Aiden, I had already done this before. Confidence bubbled up inside me, and I nodded eagerly. “I think I’m ready for that, Mother.”

The drive to school was uneventful, just the normal sounds of the car and the fleeting thoughts of what the day might bring. At school, everything went smoothly. I navigated through classes without a hitch, feeling even more like myself, or at least, this new version of myself with every passing hour.

At lunch, I spotted Cindy waving at me from across the cafeteria. I grabbed my tray and made my way over, sliding into the seat next to her. It was wonderful having a new friend.

“Hey, don’t forget about the sleepover on Friday,” Cindy said, her voice filled with excitement. “It’s at my place. I will text you the address, but from where you told me you live, it’s just walking distance from your house.”

I smiled, nodding. “I’m looking forward to it.”

The rest of the day flew by, and soon it was the afternoon. I was in the middle of history class, my thoughts drifting as the teacher droned on about some long-forgotten battle. A chill ran down my spine, an unsettling feeling that I was being watched. I tried to ignore it at first, refocusing on the lesson, but the feeling persisted.

I glanced out the window, and my heart thudded in my chest. There, just outside, was an aging gardener. His eyes were locked onto me, his expression unreadable but intense. He held up a pair of sharp pruners that he was opening and closing in the air. I stared back, frozen, as a wave of unease washed over me. The teacher’s voice snapped me out of it.

“Mia, are you paying attention?”

I blinked, missing whatever question had been asked. The class’s attention turned toward me, but all I could do was nod mutely, my mind still reeling from what I had just seen. When I looked back at the window, the gardener was gone.

The rest of the class passed in a blur, the strange encounter replaying in my mind. Why had he been staring at me like that? The unease lingered long after the final bell rang, a nagging feeling that something wasn’t right.

That evening, I called Aiden.

“Hey gorgeous. How was school?”

“Good, except I had this strange feeling of being watched when I was in history class. When I looked outside, this old gardener was staring straight at me.”

“That’s creepy, but you’re a beautiful young woman, Mia. I used to get stared at by old guys all the time.”

“Maybe you’re right, but there is staring and then there is staring.”

“I stare at you all the time.”

“Yes, but when you stare, it’s nice. This guy… it was intense. Let’s not forget Ann’s warning.”

“No. Never, Mia. I want you safe, but I’m also trying to put things in perspective. Ann said her killer seemed young. The killer would be over sixty now. I just can’t imagine someone that old still…”

“You’re right. Maybe I am just imagining things, but the gardener… he could easily be sixty.”

“Do you want me to come be your bodyguard? Because I will. I’m all about protecting you.”

“My knight in shining armor. I love you, Aiden.”

“Love you too. Good night, Mia.”

***

It was Wednesday, and I felt a bit more like me again. Tuesday had passed without incident, and I was beginning to believe that I had overreacted. Maybe I was just jumpy on Monday, imagining things that weren’t really there. The gardener’s stare had seemed so sinister at the time, but now, with the crisp, cool air and the warmth from running around the soccer field, everything felt almost normal again.

Gym class had us outside again as our teacher wanted to take advantage of the last days before winter settled in, and I was enjoying our soccer game. The breeze was sharp against my skin, but the exertion from sprinting back and forth across the field kept me comfortably warm. I was enamored with being Mia and the feel of my body as I ran. Every subtle bounce from my breasts and hair made me feel alive.

My team was ahead by one goal, and everyone was in high spirits. It was the kind of day that made you forget about everything else, at least for a little while. The ball was kicked high and wide, sailing off the field and into the overgrown bushes lining the edge of the grounds. I was closest, so I called out, “I will get it!” before jogging over to where the ball had disappeared.

As I stepped into the overgrowth, the sunlight began to fade, and the shadows deepened. The thick bushes swallowed the light, casting everything in a murky gloom. I pushed through the tangle of branches, moving deeper until I spotted the ball in a small clearing.

As I stepped into the clearing, something else caught my eye. A gardener’s shed, old and run-down, its walls covered in thick ivy. The wood looked rotten, and the whole structure seemed like it was one strong wind away from collapsing. It was almost hidden, like a secret tucked away in the corner of the school grounds. I felt a chill creep up my spine, but I pushed it aside, telling myself it was just an old, abandoned shed.

As I reached for the ball, the world around me lurched. My breath hitched in my chest as the clearing grew darker and the air colder. I wasn’t Mia anymore. I was Ann once again. Blood matted my hair. I was still wet from the pool. I was freezing, my entire body trembling with cold and fear. I could feel the dampness clinging to me, and I knew I was in trouble.

I looked around, trying to orient myself. I was lying on fertilizer bags inside a small gardener’s shed. A shadow loomed over me. A man wearing a mask. He reached out, his hand closing in around my neck as his other reached for my soaking wet blouse. I felt a surge of pure terror. The vision was so real, so immediate, that I could almost feel his breath on my skin, his hand hovering, ready to grab me.

Just as quickly as it started, the vision ended, and I was Mia again, standing in the clearing with the soccer ball in my trembling hands. My heart was beating so fast that I felt faint, and my breath came in short, panicked gasps. I was back in the present, but the fear still held firmly onto me, as real as if I had just escaped that man’s grasp.

I hurried back to the field, the ball held tightly against my chest. The laughter and shouts of my classmates seemed distant, muffled by the echoes of what I had just experienced. I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was terribly wrong, and the sinister nature of the gardener’s stare on Monday didn’t seem so imaginary anymore.

I barely made it through the rest of the day. If what I had witnessed were the last moments of Ann’s life, then I shuddered at how horrific and tragic it had been. When I arrived home, I didn’t eat dinner and just stayed in my room all night. I wanted Aiden’s protective arms around me, but I wouldn’t be able to see him until Saturday. I called him and we talked until bedtime. He was sweet to simply listen and offer encouragement to me.

***

Thursday and Friday were like repeats of Tuesday. Other than feeling like I was being watched a few times, I had no visions, and the school days simply felt normal. Aiden was disappointed that we would not see each other Friday evening, but there was a part of me that was excited about my first girl’s only sleepover. I always wondered what those were like and Mother encouraged me to go to help establish new friendships.

With a long call to Aiden, promising I would see him on Saturday, I prepared for the sleepover at Cindy’s.

It was just after sunset when I headed for Cindy’s place, the air dead still and bitterly cold. It felt like winter had finally shown up. The night seemed darker than usual, shadows too thick and dark for my liking. Every step I took seemed to echo in the quiet, making the silence feel even more chilling, like it was waiting a lurking, ready to pounce.

I stuffed my hands into my pockets, trying to focus on the warmth and fun waiting at Cindy’s place. But no matter how much I tried, an uneasy feeling crept into my chest, getting worse with every step. It felt like someone was watching me, their eyes drilling into the back of my head. No matter what I did, I couldn’t shake the sense that I wasn’t walking alone.

I glanced over my shoulder, trying to catch a glimpse of anything, or anyone, that might be out of place, but the street was empty. My heart started to beat faster as fear creeped up my spine like icy fingers tracing my bones.

The idea of going back home, of asking Mother to drive me flickered in my mind, tempting and safe. But just as I turned slightly, ready to give in to the urge, I saw him. A man standing on the sidewalk behind me, far enough away that he didn’t seem like an immediate threat, but close enough that I knew he was there. Watching. Waiting.

Panic surged through me, icy and crushing, as if a cold hand had gripped my heart. I spun around, my pace quickening, driven by a desperate urge to escape. Every breath came hard, my chest tightening with a vise-like grip of fear. I dashed down the street, thoughts swirling in a chaotic storm of what-ifs and frantic prayers, struggling to push forward despite the suffocating dread that clung to me.

My footsteps were quick, almost a jog now, but no matter how fast I walked, I could still feel his presence behind me. I didn’t dare look back again, afraid of what I might see, of how close he might be. Every sound, the crunch of leaves, the distant hum of traffic, all felt amplified, sinister, and the chill in the air seemed to seep into my bones, freezing me from the inside out.

Finally, Cindy’s house came into view, its warm lights spilling onto the street, a beacon in the oppressive darkness. Relief washed over me, but it was tinged with fear, the terror of what might still be lurking behind me. I chanced a quick glance over my shoulder, heart hammering in my chest.

The man was gone. There was nothing but the empty street, the shadows where he had once stood now devoid of any trace of him. Just as my panic began to ebb, a police car glided slowly down the road, its presence a reassuring balm to my frayed nerves. The sight of it, the symbol of safety it represented, helped me breathe a little easier.

I reached Cindy’s front door, my fingers trembling as I rang the bell. The door swung open almost immediately, and Cindy was there, her warm smile a stark contrast to the fear that still clung to me. She pulled me into a tight hug, her arms wrapping around me like a lifeline, and I let out a breath I didn’t realize I had been holding.

“Come in, Mia! You must be freezing,” Cindy said, her voice cheerful and welcoming as she ushered me inside, the warmth of her house helping to ease the coldness in my body and spirit.

As I stepped into the light with the door closing behind me, the lingering trepidation slowly began to fade, replaced by the safety of Cindy’s presence and the promise of a night spent among friends. But deep down, the fear was still there, coiled tightly in the pit of my stomach, a reminder that something wasn’t right. Not at all.

Cindy’s house buzzed with energy the moment I stepped inside. The fire in the fireplace of the living room, the soft glow of the lamps, and the faint scent of popcorn and something sweet baking in the kitchen made me feel instantly at ease. It was a world away from the cold, ominous walk I had just endured, and I let myself relax, soaking in the comfort of the moment with only one or two glances to make certain the front door was locked and there was no one staring at me from the outside.

Cindy wasted no time in introducing me to her friends. There was Bella, who had a contagious laugh and a wild mane of red, curly hair, and Emma, a quieter girl with an easy smile and a penchant for making everyone feel welcome. The three of them seemed a tightly knit trio, but they welcomed me in like I had always been part of their group.

Before I knew it, music was blasting from the speakers, and we were all dancing around the living room like we didn’t have a care in the world. Cindy’s parents had gone out for the night, leaving us free to be as loud and silly as we wanted. We twirled and jumped, laughing so hard our sides ached, and when someone pulled out a karaoke mic, it was game on.

I wasn’t sure if I was ready for karaoke. As Aiden, I had never been one to belt out songs in front of people. But the girls insisted, handing me the mic and cheering me on. With their encouragement, I decided to give it a shot. The first notes were shaky, but as I got into the song, something clicked. The nerves melted away, and I found myself having fun with it, letting my voice rise and fall with the music. By the time I finished, the girls were clapping and whooping, and Cindy declared me the best singer of the night. My face was flushed from the excitement, and I couldn’t help but laugh along with them, feeling a sense of belonging that I hadn’t realized I needed.

Dinner was a feast of snacks. Popcorn, chips, candy, and the most amazing homemade brownies with ice cream that Emma had brought over. We ate until we couldn’t possibly eat any more, sprawled out on the couches, and then Cindy suggested we watch a horror movie. I hesitated, my nerves still a bit raw from the walk over, but the girls were so excited about it that I didn’t want to be the one to spoil the night.

We settled in, the room dark except for the eerie glow of the TV screen, and the movie started. It was one of those classic horror films, with a creepy old house and a group of unsuspecting teens. The tension built slowly, every creak and shadow making my heart race a little faster. I tried to remind myself it was just a movie, but every time something jumped out or a door slammed, I couldn’t help but flinch and snuggle deeper into the blankets.

The girls, on the other hand, seemed to be loving every minute of it, laughing and teasing each other during the quieter moments. Cindy must have noticed how tense I was, though, because during one particularly suspenseful scene, she reached over and grabbed my shoulder.

I screamed. A full, high-pitched scream that startled even me and the next thing I knew, a pillow was in my hand, and I was swinging it at Cindy. She barely had time to react before the pillow hit her square in the face, and for a moment, there was stunned silence.

Then, all hell broke loose.

Bella and Emma grabbed pillows of their own, and suddenly, it was a free-for-all. Feathers flew as we whacked each other, laughing so hard we could barely breathe. The horror movie was forgotten, replaced by the chaos of our impromptu pillow fight. Cindy tried to retaliate, but I was too quick, dodging her swings and landing a few more hits of my own. It felt good to let loose, to just be silly and carefree, surrounded by friends who were just as wild and full of life as I was in that moment.

Eventually, we all collapsed on the floor, out of breath and tangled in blankets and pillows. The room was a mess with feathers everywhere, and snacks knocked over. But none of us cared. We lay there, giggling like little kids, the thrill of the pillow fight still buzzing in the air.

Cindy, with her hair in disarray and a huge grin on her face, looked over at me. “Mia, you’re officially part of the crew now.”

I smiled back, feeling a warmth that had nothing to do with the blankets. “Glad to be here.”

The night went on, full of more laughter, stories, and even a little bit of gossip. By the time we finally settled down to sleep, I was exhausted in the best way possible. My heart was full from the fun and the camaraderie. As I drifted off, I felt more at peace than I had in a long time, surrounded by friends who had made me feel welcome from the start. The fear and unease from earlier seemed like a distant memory, replaced by the warmth of friendship and the comfort of belonging.

***

It was late for me when we all woke up, groggy from too little sleep and mouths that felt like sheep had slept in them from all the salt and sweets the night before. We playfully fought a little over the order of the bathroom use and cleaned up the house as best we could.

It was late morning when we all departed with hugs all around and a promise to do something like it again soon.

The late morning air was quite cold from the night before, and I could see my breath and I walked back home. Thankfully, the bright sunshine took the edge off my nerves and made the walk far less intimidating than the night before. I still looked around and kept my awareness high, but I didn’t sense anyone watching me or see anything out of the normal, except for one of our neighbors in their ratty ugly robe and fuzzy bunny slippers with a coffee in her hands collecting the morning paper.

In a small way, I was mildly disappointed about my sleepover experience. Every young man fantasizes over what occurred during an all-girls sleepover. I still found young women attractive, but no longer in a sexual way. What got me excited was Aiden.

There was no lingerie, spin the bottle, or girls kissing girls. We wore flannel pajamas that were not revealing, and simply had fun. The reality of the event was far more to my liking than my male adolescent fantasy. I thoroughly enjoyed the joyful, easy banter and how we could talk about anything.

Had it been a group of young men, it would have been focused on sports, limited talk and most of that about girls. My female friends were exactly that. Friends. Not acquaintances that I would acknowledge in school with a grunt and a head nod.

Upon entering my house, strangely feeling truly at home there now, Mother came and gave me a hug.

“How was it, Mia?”

“It was so much fun! I feel like the four of us have been friends my entire life.”

“Was there any alcohol?”

“No alcohol or drugs, just too many sweets.”

“And no boys?”

“No boys. Would you like the surveillance footage? You might catch me singing karaoke or getting hit with a pillow on it.”

Mother laughed. “No, Mia. I trust you and I trust in your good judgement to avoid parties with those things. Why don’t you get showered up and changed?”

I yawned and nodded.

***

I had just stepped out of the shower with the steam from the bathroom still clinging to my skin when I heard a loud knock at the front door. The sound echoed through the quiet house, sharp and insistent. I paused, a towel wrapped tightly around me, and for a moment, I wondered if it might be Aiden dropping by unexpectedly. I stepped out of the bathroom and moved toward the top of the stairs, half-hidden behind the wall, listening.

A man's deep voice rumbled through the door. “City Irrigation Department, Ma’am. I’m here to check the backflow prevention systems. Is it all right if I go into the backyard?” His hand reached inside holding a pamphlet. His hand was dirty, just like the one that grabbed me. The one that killed Ann.

There was a familiarity that sent a chill skittering down my spine. A surge of adrenaline hit me, and a gnawing fear creeped into my mind. I edged back into the hallway, out of sight, trying to shake the feeling that something wasn’t right.

I hurried into my bedroom, dropping the towel and quickly pulling on a robe. My hands were shaking as I tied the belt, the knot fumbling between my fingers. I moved cautiously to the window, pulling aside the curtain just enough to peek out.

The man was standing in the backyard, his head tilted up, staring directly at my window.

My breath caught in my throat as I took in the sight. He was wearing a mask, a simple one that covered most of his face, but it was the eyes that made my blood run cold. They were unmistakable, cold, dark, and familiar. They were the sinister eyes of the gardener, the same eyes that had watched me through the window at school.

Panic seized me, and I yanked the drapes shut, my heart pounding in my chest. I had to go downstairs, had to tell Mother and Father. I had to get away. I threw on some clothes, barely registering what I was wearing, and bolted down the stairs.

“Mother! Father!” I called out, breathless, as I burst into the living room where they were sitting. “There’s a man in the backyard. He’s wearing a mask, but it’s him. The gardener from school. I’m sure of it!”

Mother looked up from her book, her expression calm, almost dismissive. “Mia, honey, the city sent a letter earlier this week about those checks. It’s just routine.”

“But Mother…” I started, my voice trembling with urgency.

Father chimed in, setting his newspaper aside. “It’s probably just your imagination, dear. Maybe you watched a horror movie that you should never have watched, and it is still playing tricks on you. There’s no need to worry.”

I stared at them, disbelief and frustration welling up inside me. How could they not see the danger? How could they be so calm when that man, that monster, was in our backyard? But their faces were composed, untroubled, as if I had just told them about a harmless neighborhood cat, not a potential killer lurking outside.

“It’s not my imagination,” I insisted, but my voice faltered. “He’s… he’s dangerous.”

Mother sighed, giving me a gentle smile that did nothing to soothe the dread gnawing at my insides. “Mia, we will keep an eye out, all right? But I’m sure it’s nothing. Now, why don’t you go and relax? You’ve had a long night.”

I wanted to scream, to shake them until they understood the terror I felt, but I knew it was useless. To them, I was just overreacting, letting my nerves get the best of me. They knew nothing of what I had gone through in the previous weeks. I nodded weakly, my voice lost in the whirl of fear and frustration and retreated upstairs.

But as I climbed the stairs, the memory of those eyes stayed with me, cold and piercing, as if they were still watching, waiting for the right moment to strike.

I frantically called Aiden, and he headed straight over. Before he even rang the doorbell, I opened the door and after looking up and down the street to make sure it was clear before throwing my arms around him.

“Aiden, it’s nice to see you again. I know it is short notice, but would you like to stay for dinner?”

“I would enjoy that very much, sir.”

I held onto Aiden’s hand, not wanting to let it go. Mother and Father spotted that but did not say anything.

“Is it all right if Aiden comes up to my room?”

“Just leave the door open, sweetheart.”

“Thanks, Mother.”

I practically dragged Aiden upstairs to my room.

Aiden lowered his voice to a whisper. “This is so strange to see my room again. It feels more like you now, Mia. I see your personal touches everywhere.” Aiden walked over to the closet. “What did you do with all my pants?”

“Uhm…” I bit my lower lip. “I put them in a box.”

Aiden smiled. “You do know you look very good in jeans, right?”

“I do. It’s just… I love dresses.”

Aiden looked through the door and down the stairs before coming back and kissing me. I clung to him.

“It’s been a rough week, Aiden. And just now… this guy was staring at my window from the backyard. I’m certain he is the gardener from school.”

“Ann said you were getting closer. I’m worried about you. Do you really think it was the gardener?”

“I’m sure of it.”

“How about I pick you up from school on Monday and we will go to the police.”

“Okay. I think that is a good plan.”

We stared at each other for a moment, my hand never leaving his.

“We don’t hear any noise up there!” Mother shouted up the stairs.

I rolled my eyes. “We’re fine, Mother. Aiden was just filling me in on what is happening at school with my old friends.”

“Why don’t you come down here so we can get to know Aiden better.”

I sighed. “Okay, Mother.”

***

Sunday morning arrived with a touch of our first snowfall that made the world look beautiful in a fresh new way. The trees had finally lost all their leaves and winter had decided it was time to take over.

I felt a sense of peace as I walked into church. The smell of polished wood and the soft murmur of voices greeted me. I loved how the morning sun streamed through the stained-glass windows behind the altar. I found Naomi already seated near the front, her warm smile beckoning me to join her. I slipped into the pew beside her, and she gave me a quick squeeze on the arm, a silent acknowledgement that things were back to normal between us.

The service began, and as always, the songs and prayers lifted my spirits. There was something about being in this space, surrounded by people who radiated kindness and faith, that made everything feel lighter. The worries that had plagued me throughout the week seemed to fade, replaced by a sense of calm.

As the last notes of the closing song echoed through the sanctuary, I felt a renewed sense of energy. The pastor, a tall man with a gentle demeanor, stepped down from the pulpit and made his way toward Naomi and me. I watched him approach, a smile on his face.

“Mia,” he said warmly, stopping in front of me. “I was wondering if you would be interested in joining our Christmas musical this year. We've heard you sing, and your voice would be a wonderful addition. Practices start next week.”

I blinked in surprise. Me? Singing in the Christmas musical? I wasn’t sure what to say. The idea of standing in front of the congregation, singing, felt daunting. I opened my mouth to politely decline, but Naomi nudged me with her elbow.

“Mia, you have the best voice in this church,” she said, her eyes sparkling with encouragement. “You should do it. Think of it as practice for one of the singing shows that can propel you into stardom and make you millions. Just remember us little people when you do.”

“As if.” I nudged Naomi back. However, her words bolstered my confidence, and after a moment’s hesitation, I nodded. “Okay, I will do it. Thank you, Pastor.”

His smile widened. “Wonderful! We’re looking forward to it.” With that, he moved on to greet other members of the congregation, leaving Naomi and me to gather our things.

As we stepped outside, I felt a warm glow of contentment. The sun was shining, and the churchyard was bustling with people exchanging pleasantries and making plans for the week ahead. I was chatting with Naomi about the musical when an older man approached us, his stride confident and his eyes fixed on me.

He looked to be in his early sixties, with graying hair. His suit was a little worn, but he carried himself with an air of dignity. As he drew closer, he smiled and had the kind of eyes that felt oddly familiar, though I couldn’t place it.

“Hello, Mia,” he said, his voice smooth and pleasant. “You look exceptionally beautiful this fine Sunday.”

I blinked, taken aback by his familiarity. I didn’t recognize him, but then again, there were still many people at church I hadn’t gotten to know yet. I returned his smile politely. “Thank you, sir.”

He nodded, his gaze lingering on me for just a moment longer than felt comfortable, before turning to greet someone else. I watched him walk away, a faint unease prickling at the back of my mind. There was something about him, something in the way he looked at me that didn’t sit right.

But I shook it off, telling myself I was being silly. It was just a friendly compliment from someone who knew my name. Nothing more. Besides, the warmth from the service still lingered, and I didn’t want to spoil it with unnecessary worry.

Naomi and I chatted a bit more as we made our way to the parking lot, but my thoughts kept drifting back to the man’s face, trying to remember if I had seen him before. But as we said our goodbyes and I headed home, the unease slowly faded, replaced by the excitement of another day as Mia.

***

It wasn’t too difficult to have Mother agree to let Aiden pick me up from school. The added strain on her to drop me off and pick me up every day was getting to her. Secretly, I hoped that she would be amenable to letting me change schools again soon.

At lunch, Cindy, Bella, Emma, and I all sat together. I even caught a glimpse of Derek. The bruising around his eyes had mostly healed and he looked almost normal now. When he spotted me, he moved to the far side of the hallway to avoid me.

As the final bell rang, I hurried out of school, excited to see Aiden waiting for me in the parking lot. Aiden's car was easy to spot, and as I approached, he rolled down the window and flashed me a smile. He made a big show of running around to open the passenger door for me.

“How was your day, Mia?” He greeted me as I slid into the passenger seat.

“Fine. No scary visions and even Derek left me alone.” I replied, though my mind was elsewhere. “I have been trying to figure out how to explain all this to someone who might actually listen.”

Aiden nodded as he pulled out of the school parking lot. “Yes, I have been thinking the same thing. The whole story will sound crazy. How do we explain that a ghost told you about someone who might have worked at the school? And that you're having visions? No one’s going to take that seriously.”

I sighed, staring out the window as we drove. “I know. But we can't just ignore it either. I feel like something bad is going to happen if we don't do something.”

We were both quiet for a while, and I had more trepidation the closer we got to the police station. The plan was to talk to someone, anyone, who might be able to help. But I wasn’t sure how to explain everything without sounding like we had lost our minds.

When we arrived, Aiden parked the car, and we walked into the building together. The station was busy, with officers moving about and phones ringing. As we made our way to the front desk, a man stepped out from an office down the hall. My heart faltered a beat as I recognized him. He was the man from church.

He was dressed in a police uniform now, his graying hair neatly combed, and his presence felt even more imposing than before. His eyes narrowed slightly as they met mine, and for a moment, I felt a shiver run down my spine. He still looked familiar, but I couldn’t place where other than church I might have seen him before.

“Hello there. Mia, isn’t it?” He said, his voice calm but with a hint of something I couldn’t quite place. “What brings you two here?”

Aiden and I exchanged a quick glance. “We, uh, wanted to report something,” Aiden said.

The man’s gaze didn’t waver from me. “Most of my staff are already busy. Come into my office. I will listen to what you have to say,” he said, stepping aside to let us pass.

We followed him down the hall and into his office. The door closed behind us with a quiet click, and I suddenly felt very small in the room. The man walked around to his desk, and I noticed his nameplate: Chief Samuel Cooper.

“Have a seat,” Chief Cooper said, gesturing to the chairs in front of his desk. We sat down, and he lowered himself into his chair, leaning forward slightly. “So, what’s this all about?”

I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves. “It’s about the gardener at Foothills Academy,” I began. “I’m certain he’s been watching me. I saw him at school, and then again in my backyard. And... I think he might have followed me on Friday night.”

Chief Cooper’s expression remained neutral, but there was a slight tightening around his eyes. “That’s quite an accusation,” he said slowly. “And what makes you think this gardener is doing anything wrong?”

I hesitated, choosing my words carefully. “I... I have been having these feelings, like something is off. And then I started thinking about Ann, the girl who disappeared forty years ago. She went to Foothills Academy too, and there are still rumors about her murder. Rumors where she had told others about someone working at the school that might have been following her.”

The chief leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest. “Ann’s case is ancient history, Mia. And there’s no reason to dig up old rumors. Nothing you have mentioned so far is evidence of anything other than your imagination running wild.”

His tone was dismissive, almost defensive, and I felt a growing sense of unease. “But what if the gardener…?”

He cut me off with a wave of his hand. “Mia, listen to me. You don’t want to go around making baseless accusations. It’s not going to help anyone, and it could cause a lot of unnecessary trouble.”

There was something in his voice. It was a subtle warning that sent a chill down my spine. He was trying to shut me down, to make me doubt myself. But I couldn’t shake the feeling that he knew more than he was letting on.

“I’m just trying to do the right thing,” I said quietly, unsure how else to respond.

Chief Cooper’s eyes bored into mine. “The right thing is to let the police handle police matters. Ann’s case has been closed for decades, and there’s nothing going on at your school that should concern you. My advice? Stay out of it.”

The conversation was over. He made that clear. But as Aiden and I left the station, the uneasy feeling that had settled in my gut only grew stronger. Chief Cooper’s words hadn’t reassured me at all. In fact, they had the opposite effect. There was something much more sinister going on, and I had a sickening suspicion that we were getting dangerously close to the truth.

When we got back into the car, Aiden ran his hand through his hair then stared at his hand. “You know, it’s the oddest thing. I feel fully adapted to my new life as Aiden. It feels right.”

I turned towards Aiden. “Yes. I know what you mean. I would have thought it would take longer. We should get going so Mother doesn’t worry.”

Aiden nodded. “Don’t fret about the police chief, Mia. We both knew that it was a long shot and he’s right in that we don’t have any evidence of wrongdoing.”

“But didn’t you feel he was hiding something?”

“I was surprised he knew about Ann’s case, but he’s old enough to have possibly worked the case. How did he know you, Mia? I don’t ever remember meeting him before.”

“He came up to me in church yesterday. He told me I looked pretty.”

“I don’t recall him ever being at the church, but I didn’t know everyone either. He probably knows my… your parents.”

“Probably. Would you like to help me with something tomorrow after school?”

“Of course. If I get more time with you, then I am all in.”

I reached over and squeezed his thigh. “Eyes on the road, sweetheart.”

“I’m going to marry you one day, Mia.”

“A girl can only dream.” I replied sweetly.

“What do you want help with?”

“Remember my vision of the garden shed?”

“Yes.”

“I want to check it out, Aiden.”

“How will you explain your delay to Mother?”

“Like I did today. I told her you were helping me prepare for my learner’s test since you took it this spring. That and she is happy to have a break from picking me up.”

I stared at Aiden as we drove. What did I think about the idea of being Aiden’s wife? I imagined many things, but they all made me incredibly happy. I reached over and rubbed his neck as he drove. He just smiled.

“Stop here, Aiden.”

Aiden pulled over. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing is wrong. I just wanted to kiss you before we got close to home.”

Aiden forgot the car was still running and in gear so when he leaned towards me the car jumped forward and stalled.

“Ooops. Still learning how to drive and you distract me.”

“I distract you?”

“God, yes, Mia.” Aiden leaned over and kissed me until my toes curled.

“Mmm. Wow. You don’t distract me at all.” I said smugly.

“If that’s the case then, maybe I should take Naomi up on her offer.”

“Don’t you dare!”

“Say it. Tell me I distract you.”

“That’s blackmail.”

Aiden glanced at his phone. “I’m pretty sure I have Naomi’s number.”

I grabbed him and kissed him passionately. “You.” Another kiss. “Distract.” One more kiss. “Me.”

Aiden smiled, then his face turned as pale as Ann’s ghost. There was a tap on the window next to me. I turned to see Mother glaring at me. At us. I rolled down the window.

“Is this how you learn to drive, Mia?”

“No, Mother.”

“Do you remember our discussion about puzzle pieces?”

“Yes, Mother.”

She glanced at Aiden. “You need to be more honorable in how you treat my daughter. And you, Mia…”

I swallowed.

“I will not be a hypocrite and tell you I never kissed your father before we married. A kiss is expected between two people that love each other, but it can lead to things which is not acceptable outside of the covenant of marriage. Do you both understand?”

“Yes, Mother.”

Aiden nodded. “Yes, Ma’am. I respect the boundaries you place on our time together and would never take advantage of that.”

“Then why are you parked a block away from the house and kissing my daughter?”

Aiden went to say something, then stopped.

“It was my idea, Mother. I love Aiden. We have been friends for so many years, that I wasn’t aware of my true feelings until very recently.”

Mother’s gaze softened. “I know. I have seen it. Let this be a warning to you both. You can kiss, and you can do that without reproach from me, but I would prefer that you are not trying to hide it either. Your father and I thought it strange you two were hugging on the front porch. We can see how much you care for each other. You have out blessings as long as you are open about your relationship to us and promise not to go too far.”

“Yes, Ma’am.”

“And Aiden…”

“Yes, Ma’am?”

“It might do you good to come to church with us. It’s a part of Mia’s life and those good influences might rub off on you.”

“Yes, Ma’am.”

“Come along, Mia. You and I can walk from here.”

I looked at Aiden, then back at Mother. “May I kiss him goodbye?”

Mother laughed. “Not sure I could or would want to stop you.”

I smiled and kissed Aiden. “Thanks for picking me up today.”

Aiden glanced at Mother before refocusing on me. “I love you, Mia. Have a good night.”

“I love you too.”

I snuck another kiss before getting out of the car. Aiden drove off and Mother latched her arm with mine as we walked home. I leaned into her and laid my head against her shoulder.

“You’re like a new person, Mia. We see you blossoming into a mature, young woman. Perhaps we don’t say it enough, but we are proud of you. You are so beautiful and smart. You could have anything you want in life.”

I snuggled a bit closer. “I have everything I ever wanted. A loving family, health, and now Aiden.”

***

After school, I spotted Aiden’s car parked by the curb and felt a flutter of joy. Aiden leaned against the car, waiting for me with that easy smile I loved, while Brad hung back a bit trying to seem nonchalant. The moment I reached them, Aiden pulled me into a warm kiss. When we broke apart, his expression turned serious, though a playful glint still shone in his eyes.

“You know,” he said, shaking his head, “I’ve never been so frightened as when your mom caught us kissing. Even seeing Ann’s ghost wasn’t that terrifying.”

I laughed, but Brad looked a bit nervous, rubbing the back of his neck. “I’m just glad Ann’s parents didn’t catch me snogging with her in the foyer on Halloween night,” he added with a chuckle, though it was clear our public display of affection made him a bit uncomfortable.

Aiden turned to me. His curiosity was evident in his eyes. “How did you get your parents to agree to let me pick you up from school again?”

I put on my most serious face, lowering my voice dramatically. “I made a blood oath with them.”

Both Aiden and Brad stared at me, their eyes widening in shock. But I couldn’t keep a straight face, and I burst out laughing. “I’m just kidding! They were fine with it as long as we follow the rules. The usual parent stuff Mother mentioned before plus Mother is getting tired of picking me up every day.”

Relieved, they laughed along with me, and together we walked across the school grounds. The air was near freezing and the shadows had been growing longer as the days were getting shorter. We reached the edge of the soccer field, where the overgrowth began. I led them through the thick brush with my steps slowing as we approached the clearing. I shook nervously as the old gardener’s shed came into view, its walls covered in ivy, the structure almost lost to the wilderness around it.

I stopped, my breath catching in my throat. “This is where it all happened. Where I am certain Ann was raped and murdered.” I whispered, the weight of the realization pressing down on me. The place felt  as if breathing the air would cause some sort of disease. There were secrets here. Secrets I wasn’t sure I wanted to uncover.

Aiden squeezed my hand, grounding me in the moment. “You don’t have to do this,” he said softly.

But I shook my head. “I need to. For Ann’s sake.” I led them inside the shed, the door creaking ominously as we pushed it open. The air was thick with dust, and the dim light from the approaching evening and overgrowth of the forest around it barely cut through the gloom. Everything about the place felt wrong, like it was frozen in time, hiding something dark.

I didn’t know what I expected to find. We all rummaged around for a while. Brad moved toward an old cupboard, his curiosity getting the better of him. As he opened it, his eyes widened. “Guys, look at this,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Inside the cupboard, hidden away, was a small, latched box. It looked old, worn with time. Brad carefully unlatched it, and we all leaned over to see what was inside. The box contained a few small items: an earring, a lock of hair, a hair scrunchie, and a silver comb. My stomach churned as I looked at the earring, its design eerily familiar.

“That earring,” I murmured, my voice trembling. “Ann’s ghost… She was only wearing one earring. I’m certain this looks just like the one she is wearing.”

The realization hit us all at once, the weight of it threatened to crush us. These weren’t just random items. They were trophies kept by some demented killer who had taken something precious from these women. The same person who had taken everything from Ann. The truth of what we had stumbled upon was too horrifying to fully grasp.

Aiden wrapped an arm around me, pulling me close as we all stood in silence, the reality of our discovery crashing over us like a cold wave. We had found something far worse than we could have imagined.

Aiden took control of our trio. “Brad, close it up. We need to get out of here.”

Brad gingerly closed the lid and latched it. He was holding the box like it was made of radioactive material.

“We need to bring it to the police.”

We all walked in silence back to the car. Brad got in first, then Aiden pulled me aside.

“Mia… There was something in that box that scares me to death.”

I held my breath.

“The silver comb is yours. Your grandmother gave it to you. It has your initials engraved on it. It was on your dresser, next to a small figurine. Whoever took it… this gardener… he was in your house, and I believe you are his next victim. I’m not leaving your side.”

I put my hand to my mouth, then bent over at my waist. The visions of what had happened to Ann were bad enough, but to think the sadistic murderer was still out there and targeting me. I couldn’t get air, and Aiden was pulling me back upright.

“Breathe, Mia. Nothing is going to happen to you. I’m worried about your parents. If the murderer is after you and came into your house, then they might be in danger if he comes back. We need to go back to your house. We can call the police from there.”

“Oh my God!”

I was running for Aiden’s car. Panic threatened to consume me.

“Go! Go! Go!”

Aiden floored the ancient Honda Civic. Tires squealed as Brad rolled across the back seat.

“What’s going on?” Shouted Brad.

“We have to get to Mia’s!”

At the speed we went, the normal fifteen-minute drive was accomplished in less than ten minutes. Ten minutes that felt like hours. We pulled onto my street and spotted a police car out in front of the house.

“No…” My voice was barely audible. “Please no…”

I didn’t want to go inside, but I had already opened the car door. I took several steps towards the house when Aiden grabbed my shoulders.

“I will go in, Mia.”

Tears were streaming down my face as Brad, still holding the box, stepped up next to us.

“I’m confused.”

Aiden and I ignored him as we hurried up to the front door. I looked at Aiden, breathed a prayer, and opened the door.

The foyer was quiet. We all just stood there listening for anything. The silence was deafening.

I squeezed Aiden’s hand, and I took a step forward, but he held me back.

“Let me go first. No more cowering on my part and I promised to protect you.”

I’m not sure I would be as brave if I were still Aiden.

Brad whispered, “Guys? What’s wrong? Why do you look like something bad has happened?”

I followed Aiden and as soon as he stepped into the living room, a gun was placed to his head. A gun held by a hand with a scar on it.

“I’m so glad you could join us. All three of you. Get in here. Now!”

Aiden raised his arms and moved further into the living room. Before I could see into the living room, a hand grabbed Aiden’s neck and guided him forward. Chief Cooper stepped into view.

I gasped.

“Hello, Mia. You and I have unfinished business. Get in here!”

He waved his gun at me and Brad and ushered us into the living room. My eyes immediately went to Mother and Father. They were bound with ropes and duct tape was covering their mouths.

Aiden moved closer to them. “Are you all right? Did he hurt you?”

“Another step, boy, and I won’t hesitate to put a bullet in your head.”

Aiden froze. Chief Cooper turned his evil gaze back to me, then reached out a hand and stroked my cheek.

I winced and stepped back.

“We’re going to get to know each other well, Mia. You look so much like her. So much like Ann. I dare say, you are far prettier though. I will take my time with you.”

Aiden leapt at Chief Cooper, “Don’t touch her!”

Aiden was rewarded for his bravery with a pistol whip to his head. He crashed down at Father’s feet moaning as he held his head.

“Aiden!”

I went to move, and Chief Cooper grabbed my neck.

“He is not your concern, Mia.”

Brad started to back away towards the hallway, but Chief Cooper trained his gun on him. He looked down at the box in Brad’s hands and his eyes narrowed.

If he could become unhinged any more, he did in that moment. “That’s mine!” He grabbed the box from Brad’s hand and pressed the gun into Brad’s face.

“Leave them alone! It’s me you want, isn’t it? Take me, just let them go.” I couldn’t believe my own voice. I knew what he wanted to do to me but in that moment, nothing mattered to me than the ones I loved so much.

Chief Cooper took a step back, put the box down on the coffee table, then reached behind him, pulling out handcuffs. He handed them to me. “Put these on your wrists, Mia.”

Father struggled.

I lifted my chin, and slipped them on my wrists, the sound of the ratcheting mechanism harsh to my ears.

“Now sit down and don’t move.”

I sat down in a chair as Chief Cooper pulled snap ties from his belt. “Both of you. Hold out your hands.”

“Why did you kill Ann?”

Chief Cooper snapped the ties into place then proceeded to tie their feet and cover their mouths with duct tape. When everyone was secured, he tied them to each other and then to the furniture.

He moved to me and hovered dangerously close, and he sniffed my hair. “She spurned me! Me! I was a recruit for the police force. I asked her to marry me, but she said she loved someone else. Avery something.” He spat as if getting something foul out of his mouth.

“She was mine! Mine! I decided to plan our wedding and honeymoon. I waited to surprise her at her school. She was working on a project into the evening. I used to be the gardener at the school, so I took some flowers from the garden and made a chapel in the woods. I went back to the school and found her in the hallway. She was so beautiful. Just like you, Mia. She said she didn’t love me. She wanted to marry someone else. We got married that night anyways and had our honeymoon. But she died during consummation. It was terribly tragic.”

He yanked me to my feet. I kicked him with everything I had in his balls. He dropped to his knees, groaning in pain, but before I could take a step, he launched himself at me. His large hand closed around my neck and his gun was placed against my head.

He turned his head to those in the room. “I will be back for all of you later. After the honeymoon is over.”

He let go of my neck and I sucked in a breath of air. He leaned forward and kissed me. I spat in his face.

“You’re sick!” My bruised throat rasped.

He backhanded me across the face so hard, I crumpled back into the chair. I felt blood trickle from my mouth.

He lifted me to my feet. “Tell me you love me, Ann. Tell me you want to marry me. Soon we will be together forever.”

He grabbed me and started hauling me towards the front door. I managed to look back once at Aiden, Brad, and my parents.

“I love you!” I yelled back to them.

Chief Cooper shoved me through the front door. Night had fallen.

I screamed for all I was worth. “Help!”

Only one door opened and the neighbor with the bunny slippers came out.

“What’s going on out here?”

“Police business!” Cooper shouted.

“He’s going to murder me!” I yelled.

“She’s high on drugs. I’m taking her to a cell to sleep it off.”

The neighbor merely nodded and went back inside. I knew things were bad, but now I knew just how bad. No one would believe my word over the chief of police.

Chief Cooper shoved me into the back seat and slammed the door. The sheer terror of my situation threatened to overwhelm me. I let out an involuntary whimper.

“You don’t need to do this. Let me go. Please.”

When he didn’t say anything, I continued to plead my case.

“Someone will catch you. My friends and family. They will know what you did.”

“Not if they are dead.”

“You can’t just kill me and four others and get away with it! The neighbor saw me.”

“I’m the chief of police. I can do anything I want. It is nothing for me to kill them and pin it on you, a drug-crazed young woman that the neighbor saw as I was taking you away. No one will question me.”

“You’re crazy! Let me go!” I kicked at the glass separating us.

He slammed on the brakes, and I smashed against the plexiglass barrier. The car began moving again as I tried to right myself.

I just managed to get back into the seat when I realized where we were heading. Foothills Academy. The school loomed large and foreboding in the dark. Not a soul was around.

Chief Cooper drove behind the school and parked next to the soccer field. He got out of the car and opened my door, dragging me out and across the field.

I screamed at the top of my lungs and was backhanded again. The force of the blow caused me to drop to my knees in the cold, frozen grass. He reached for me again and I scrambled to my feet and ran. I got two steps before his hand wrapped around my ankle and I landed face first into the ground.

He picked me up and tossed me over his shoulder. I screamed again and thrashed only to be slammed forcefully to the ground in a dazed heap. I struggled to get up, but his boot pressed my head into the ground. I felt his hands on my body and my blouse was being tugged at hard, then I heard something tearing as the bottom of my blouse was torn away. I could barely whimper since breathing was so painful.

He lifted his boot and thrust the strip of blouse into my mouth, tying it hard at the back of my head. He hefted me back up on his shoulder and I started thrashing again until I heard a voice in my head.

“Conserve your energy, Mia.”

It was Ann’s voice. I wept. She had not survived this lunatic. How would I? Still, her voice calmed me.

Chief Cooper plowed through the thick brush and in the small clearing. Even with Ann’s warning, I squirmed and thrashed. Chief Cooper tossed me back to the frozen ground like a sack of potatoes. He slugged me again and my world went dark.

***

I moaned as my awareness came back to me. How long I had been unconscious, I was unsure. Long enough to see that a strange altar had been set up. There were flowers, and several fake candles that cast an eerie flickering glow on the trees around.

Chief Cooper grabbed me and set me on my feet next to the altar. I could barely stand from fear and the blows to my head.

He raised his arms towards the sky. “We are gathered here tonight to witness the union of Ann and Samuel.”

I felt my eyes widen. I looked for an escape and began to tense my muscles.

“Not yet, Mia. Not yet.”

“Where is my witness?!” Chief Cooper shouted.

Out of the darkness, an aged man stepped into the light of the candles. It was the gardener. He stared at me before turning his eyes on Chief Cooper.

“No, S… S… Samuel. N… n…not ag… again.”

“You can’t stop me, brother.”

Brother? I glanced between the two of them seeing their familiar features.

“S… s… she is… is… isn’t Ann! S… she nev… never hurt you! S… s… she is a g… g… good, young w… w… woman.”

“She is just like all the rest. You are my witness. Ann and I are now joined in holy matrimony.”

“I w… w… won’t let y… you. Not… not… this t… time.”

“I will pin this on you, Alex. All of it. Do you think anyone will believe you? A stuttering imbecile over me?”

Chief Cooper grabbed my bound hands and pulled me towards the garden shed. Alex stepped in front of us.

“N… no, S… Samuel.”

Chief Cooper took his hands off me and pulled out his gun. He pointed it at Alex. He was just unhinged and crazy enough to pull the trigger and I watched his finger twitch.

Even frozen in fear, I couldn’t let that happen. I stepped in between Alex and Chief Cooper.

Chief Cooper looked perplexed. He pulled the gun back.

“Now! Run, Mia! Run!” Ann’s words in my mind sent a shockwave through me. I bolted through the bushes towards the soccer field. I heard the click of a gun and a grunt behind me, but I dared not look back. I weaved as a shot rang out, shattering a small tree right next to me.

Sounds of a struggle faded as I burst through the bushes. Another shot and a muffled scream. I ran for all I was worth, ducking my head as a bullet shattered the bricks of the school building. I turned the corner of the building and ran for the front parking lot.

As soon as the parking lot came into view, I almost ran the other way. A half dozen police cars were there, and they had their lights on.

“Mia!” Aiden’s voice yelled.

I ran for his voice and straight into his arms. Mother and Father were there and grabbed for me taking me into their arms. My gag was pulled down.

Brad screamed, “Mia, look out!”

Aiden, Mother, Father, and I were bowled over by Brad just as another shot rang out. We were in a tangled mess and trying to figure out what happened,

“Drop your weapon!” Someone shouted. Multiple shots were fired.

A police officer stood over us. “Stay down!”

“Ow ow ow!” Came Brad’s voice over the commotion

The radios squawked. “Chief Cooper is down! Chief Cooper is down! All clear! Set up a perimeter and get an ambulance out here!”

I felt hands grabbing me and I crawled away from whoever it was. Father’s arms wrapped around me. “You’re safe, Mia. You’re safe now.”

We were still on the ground. An officer was helping us get up. I looked down to see Brad holding his arm. Blood covered his jacket.

“Brad!” I squirmed out of Father’s embrace and almost tackled an officer to get to Brad.

The officer reached for me, and I screamed and twisted to get away.

Mother’s arms wrapped around me. “Mia… My sweet baby girl… Brad will be all right. An officer is applying pressure to his arm. Mia… look at me.”

I looked up into Mother’s eyes and I burst into tears. She sat me down on the frozen grass and held and rocked me.

After several minutes, my heart rate began to drop. Mother stroked my hair. “It’s all right, Mia. I’ve got you.”

Brad’s voice rose above the clamor and approaching sirens. “I was shot… Owwww! Am I going to live?”

“You should be fine.”

“That’s a relief. Oww. The girls will love this.”

Several ambulances pulled up. Medics rushed over to Mother and me and others to Brad.

“Mia? We need to look at you.”

Mother released me and as the medic tried to grab my arm, I screamed again.

“Let me.” Aiden’s voice was cracking with emotion. I felt his hand gently take mine in his. “Mia. Let me take you to the ambulance.”

I nodded slowly as Aiden pulled me into his arms. I looked over at Brad who was now sitting in the back of an ambulance.

“…and then, I dove. Ow. Ow. Owww. I felt this sharp pain in my arm, sort of like when a twenty-pound bee stings you…”

“Yes. He’s in shock. We need to take him to the hospital to get the bullet out.”

I wanted to say that was the normal Brad, but I could barely speak.

Aiden sat me down on the back end of the ambulance. A medic started to touch me, and I leaned into Aiden away from his touch.

Aiden hugged me tightly. “I won’t let anything happen to you, Mia. Let them check you out. I will be right here.”

I nodded and let go slightly so the medic could begin checking me. As soon as my blood pressure was checked and a few vitals, a warm blanket was wrapped around me. They tenderly probed my neck, ribs, and head.

An officer came and removed the handcuffs.

The medic stepped back and looked me in the eye. “You likely have a concussion, maybe a cracked rib or two. Bruising of your throat. Laceration of your cheek inside your mouth. You have bruising and several lacerations on your wrists. We will take you to the hospital for a more thorough examination and keep you at least overnight for observation.”

I nodded slowly. The radios crackled to life again. “We have another man that has been shot. He’s alive.”

I stood up and dragged Aiden with me.

“Miss? Mia? We need to take you to the hospital.”

I kept walking. Mother and Father came along and stayed close. A sheet was being draped over Chief Cooper’s body as another man was being wheeled towards the ambulance on a gurney. It was the gardener.

I broke free of Aiden and ran to Alex’s side.

“Miss, stay back!”

“He saved my life. He tried to save me.”

“We will take care of him.”

Alex stared at me, his gaze no longer frightening. There was such deep sorrow in his eyes.

Mother, Father, and Aiden were unsure what to do with me as I ran back to the other ambulance. Brad’s jacket had been removed and his right arm was well bandaged. He looked a little woozy. I threw my arms around him and kissed his cheek.

Brad smiled, blushed, and fell back onto the gurney.

“Is he all right?!”

The medic chuckled and started to close the door. “He’s fine, Miss. This happens a lot.”

“People faint from kisses?” I rasped out.

“People faint from seeing their own blood.”

The door closed. An officer approached me, and I stepped behind Aiden.

“The second ambulance will take the other man…”

“Alex.” I interrupted him.

“Alex to the hospital. I will take the rest of you to the hospital in my vehicle.”

He led us over to a police car and he opened the back door. “In you go. Three in the back and one in the front.”

“No… No. No!” I started backing away. “Not the back!”

Mother hugged me. “You can ride with me in the front. Let the men ride in the back.”

The officer shook his head. “It’s against policy, Ma’am. Seatbelts are mandatory for front passengers.”

Mother’s voice was tinged with challenge. “The hospital is ten minutes away. If you think for one damn moment I am letting my daughter out of my grasp, you have another thing coming.” Mother pulled me into the front seat with her, wrapped her arms around me, and closed the door on the stunned officer.

***

When I opened my eyes, the first thing I noticed was the soft scent of flowers. It took me a moment to recognize my surroundings. The sterile white walls, the steady beep of machines, and the low hum of hospital equipment. I was in the hospital, and it was late morning. I shifted slightly, and pain shot through my body, making me let out a small whimper. But when I glanced around, I saw that Aiden and my parents were all asleep, their faces tired but peaceful.

My throat felt like sandpaper. Every swallow was painful, and my ribs and face throbbed with a dull ache. My wrists were chafed and bruised, a reminder of whatever had happened before I ended up in the hospital. But despite all of that, one thing that was pressing on my mind was that I needed to pee, and badly.

Carefully, I reached for the IV in my arm. The tape tugged at my skin, but I gritted my teeth and pulled it out, followed by the monitors attached to me. The machines began to beep in protest, and I swung my legs over the side of the bed. As soon as my feet touched the cold floor, the movement stirred everyone awake. Aiden’s eyes snapped open, and my parents sat up in alarm.

“Mia!” Aiden’s voice was thick with concern as he reached for me, but I was already pushing myself off the bed, trying to stand.

Just then, the nurse rushed in, eyes wide. “You need to get back in bed, right now,” she said firmly, stepping toward me.

I shook my head, my voice barely more than a rasp. “Unless you want to clean up pee from the floor, you need to let me go.”

For a moment, she hesitated, then sighed and gently grabbed my arm. “Alright, but let me help you,” she said, her tone softer now.

With her help, I made it to the bathroom, feeling every ache in my body with each step. But as I closed the door behind me, I couldn’t help but feel a small sense of victory that was short lived. I began replaying the events of the previous night and I started to cry. A full-blown, snot dripping, wailing cry.

The nurse ripped the bathroom door open. Luckily, I was already standing and mostly covered. Mother rushed past the nurse and wrapped me in her arms.

“It’s all right, Mia. It’s over.”

My crying only intensified as I cupped Mother’s face. “You’re all right? Did he hurt you or anyone?”

“We are fine, sweetheart. Physically, we are all fine. I’m mad as hell we didn’t listen to you and not sure I ever want you out of my sight again.”

We moved into the room, the nurse was ignored completely as she tried to wrangle me back to bed amidst massive group hugs and crying.

“Brad. How’s Brad?”

Aiden laughed. “He’s in good spirits and eating the hospital out of Jello. No major arteries were hit, and he will heal just fine.”

“And Alex? The gardener?”

Father guided me back to the bed and sat me down. “He will make it.”

A police officer entered the room, and I shrank back from him. The nurse just threw up her hands and walked out.

“I’m glad you are up and about, Mia. While things are fresh, I need a statement from you.”

***

Having to relive the events of the previous evening was painful, but it helped a little to talk about what happened. Aiden, Mother, and Father were visibly upset, hearing everything that I went through.

A few hours later my doctor came in with a reassuring smile. After a quick check-up, she turned to me and my family.

“You’re free to go, Mia,” she said, her tone gentle but firm. “But I strongly recommend you rest through the weekend. No strenuous activities, and make sure you take it easy. The bruising and swelling will likely increase over the next day, and you will be in some pain, maybe more than you are today.”

I nodded, relieved to finally be heading home. After I got dressed and packed up my things, Aiden and I made our way to Brad’s room. My parents waited in the hallway, giving us some space. As we approached, I heard Brad’s voice, light and playful, coming from inside. He was talking to a young nurse, trying to impress her with what sounded like an exaggerated version of the events from the night before.

“Yeah, it was pretty intense,” Brad was saying. “I took a bullet to protect everyone. You should have seen it. I was like James Bond”

The nurse looked skeptical, her eyebrows raised in disbelief. “I highly doubt that.”

I couldn’t help but smile as I stepped into the room, interrupting their conversation.

“Brad,” I said, my voice still hoarse but carrying a teasing tone, “Don’t be so modest. You were so bold and courageous, shielding me from that bullet. You’re a hero.”

Brad looked up, surprised to see me, but his expression softened into a grin. The nurse, now intrigued, glanced between us, her disbelief fading.

“Really?” she asked, looking at Brad with newfound respect.

I nodded. “Absolutely. I owe my life to him.”

As the nurse left to attend to other patients, the room grew quieter.

“How are you, Mia?” Brad asked. “I can’t imagine the horrors you went through.”

We fell into a somber conversation about the events of the previous night, each of us recalling our own terrifying moments. Finally, I couldn’t hold back my curiosity any longer.

“How did you guys manage to escape your bindings?” I asked, my eyes on Aiden and Brad.

Brad chuckled softly. “It was all this guy,” he said, nodding toward Aiden. “He went crazy trying to get to you, Mia. He broke the snap ties on his wrists and then worked to free the rest of us.”

I turned to Aiden, my heart swelling with pride and love. “You’re both my heroes,” I said, my voice thick with emotion. “Thank you.”

Aiden squeezed my hand, his eyes filled with the same love and determination I had seen in him the night before.

As we got ready to leave, I gave Brad a warm smile. “Take care of yourself, Brad. I will come see you soon, okay?”

“Don’t worry about me, I will be fine,” he replied, grinning despite the pain. “Just make sure you get some rest too.”

With that, Aiden and I left Brad’s room, heading back to where my parents were waiting. As we walked down the hospital corridor, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the people in my life who had fought so hard for me.

Just as we were leaving, a policer officer approached, and I stepped behind Aiden. I knew my fear was irrational, but what was once a symbol of safety had become something very frightening to me.

“Mia. I would like to speak to you and your family. I have some updates.”

I nodded slowly. “Aiden too, please.”

“Of course.”

We were given access to a conference room. Once we were all seated, the officer began.

“On behalf of the entire police department, we apologize that one of our own betrayed us. Alex Cooper, Chief Cooper’s younger brother, confessed to aiding Chief Cooper’s evil deeds. He was cooperative and told the police about the box of evidence and other evidence hidden inside the garden shed this morning. He also told us where we would find the missing bodies.

“This has been very difficult on everyone in the department. Deeper in the forest, where Alex told us… We discovered a hidden well. Deep within we discovered the remains of two women. It will take some time to confirm, but Alex recalled every name.”

I sobbed. “Was one named Ann?”

The officer nodded. “Ann Weatherford. An open case from around forty years ago.”

“Chief Cooper said Ann had spurned him when he asked her to marry him. He… he made a chapel, a shrine, kidnapped her, and play acted some twisted marriage ceremony, then raped her and murdered her. Several times he called me Ann. It seems he found someone that reminded him of Ann and… How many did you say?”

“Two in the well. There was a case ten years ago that Chief Cooper handled. We are now reopening it believing it is also tied. It was the rape and murder of Brittany Welsh.”

Aiden made a strangled noise and Father and Mother gasped. Brittany was Mia’s babysitter. Her death drove Mia to hide her beauty.

“What of Alex?”

“He said he was the witness. We are not sure what that means. He had knowledge of the murders and will be prosecuted.”

I swallowed hard. “Chief Cooper called out for a witness to his fake marriage ceremony. Alex came. I think it was Chief Cooper’s twisted way of validating his marriage to the women. What of Chief Cooper?”

“Chief Samuel Cooper died on the scene.”

“Why does his death not please me? A quick death was too good for him.” My raspy voice dripped with anger and venom.

Mother’s voice cut through the stunned silence. “Mia. You don’t mean that. We are to forgive.”

“It is too soon for that. He raped and murdered Ann and maybe others. He tore families apart by his actions. He broke into our home and hurt you and Father. He hurt Aiden and shot Brad. He tormented me, Mother. He was going to rape and kill me. I would have been just another girl at the bottom of a well, lost and forgotten.”

I could tell Mother wanted to say more, but she merely moved to wrap me in her arms.

The officer stood. “If there is anything we can do for you, don’t hesitate to reach out.”

I sniffed and tried to quell my anger. “I have a few more questions.”

“Go ahead, Mia.”

“I saw Alex staring at me one day when I was in my history class, and I am certain I thought he was following me once.”

“Alex said he was keeping an eye on you as he knew his brother had targeted you.”

Suddenly things became clearer. Alex was the gardener I tried to protect from the students. He was watching me to protect me from Chief Cooper. It wasn’t Alex that came to the house on Saturday. Alex had a stutter. It was Chief Cooper. He was the one in the backyard wearing the mask and I bet he was the one driving the police car the night of the sleepover. Their eyes are what looked familiar to me since they were brothers.

I shivered. “I just want to go home.”

***

The ride home from the hospital felt surreal, like stepping back into a life that should have felt familiar but now seemed distant. My parents were talking softly in the front seat, their voices a comforting hum, but I was lost in my thoughts. When we pulled into the driveway, I hesitated before getting out, taking a deep breath to steady myself.

As soon as I walked through the front door, the house felt different. The warmth and safety I usually associated with home had been tainted. Everywhere I looked, I saw reminders of the horror we had gone through. A piece of duct tape, forgotten in the corner of the living room, made my stomach churn. When I knelt to pick it up, my hands trembled, and I had to fight back the tears that threatened to spill over.

Later, as I was cleaning up, I found a broken snap tie beneath the sofa. The sight of it brought everything crashing back, and before I knew it, I was sitting on the floor, tears streaming down my face. Mother found me like that, and without a word, she sat down beside me and held me until I had no more tears to cry.

During the day, I was never alone. My parents were always nearby, offering gentle distractions or just sitting with me in comfortable silence. Aiden visited often, his presence a constant source of strength. The nights were the hardest. In the dark silence of my room, every creak of the house, every rustle of the wind outside, made my heart pound and my breath quicken. I would lie there, wide awake, my mind conjuring up every possible nightmare until exhaustion finally claimed me.

By Friday, Brad had been released from the hospital. He stopped by with Aiden to check on me, and it felt good to see him up and moving, even if he was still a bit pale and stiff and had his arm bandaged and in a sling. We didn’t talk much about what had happened as we all seemed to understand that words weren’t necessary. Just being together was enough.

Saturday afternoon brought a bit of hope. Our families decided to come together for a barbecue to start healing and moving forward. The three families gathered in our backyard, the air filled with the scent of grilled food and the sounds of soft, even if somewhat forced, laughter. It was the first time in days that I felt a sense of normalcy, however fragile it was.

I found myself sitting beside Aiden and Brad, watching our parents chat and laugh, the tension of the past few days easing slightly.

As the evening wore on and the sun began to set, I felt a glimmer of hope. We had a long way to go, but we were taking the first steps. Surrounded by those who had fought for me and with me, I knew that I wasn’t alone, and that made all the difference.

We decided it was time to go back. Our parents reluctantly acknowledging we needed some time together and with promises of returning soon, the three of us, Aiden, Brad, and I piled into the car, ready to confront the place that had changed our lives forever. I slid into the back seat, a spot that would have normally been Brad’s, but with his arm still healing from the bullet wound, he took the front passenger seat. I didn’t mind the adjustment; it felt right somehow. It was a small gesture of gratitude for everything Brad had done.

As we drove, dusk became night. We stepped out of the car and stood together, staring at the old, abandoned house. It was strange that what had once been so terrifying now just seemed sad, a lonely monument to the devastation caused by one man’s cruelty.

We moved carefully up the path, our footsteps soft on the cracked pavement. The front door creaked open on its own, a whisper of movement that should have made my heart race, but instead, it just felt… inevitable. We stepped into the foyer, and we all held our beath.

And then Ann appeared, her presence both ethereal and solid at the same time. The sight of her brought tears to my eyes, all the fear, pain, and relief of the past days cascaded over me. But before I could collapse under the weight of it all, Ann’s ghostly form enveloped me in an embrace. Her touch was cool but comforting, like a gentle breeze on a warm day.

“Shh, it’s okay,” she whispered, her voice soft and soothing. “Thank you, Mia. Thank you all. I’m at peace now.”

Her words were like a balm to my soul, and for the first time in days, I felt a sense of true calm.

“You have released me. It is time for me to leave this realm.”

Brad, who had been watching quietly, spoke up, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Ann,” he said, a playful glint in his eyes, “before you go…could I have one more kiss?”

Ann’s ghost smiled, her expression full of warmth and fondness. She floated over to Brad, and with a tenderness that was both heartbreaking and beautiful, she pressed her lips to his in a final kiss. When she pulled away, Brad’s smile was wide, his eyes shining with a mix of joy and sadness.

“I need to speak to Mia and Aiden alone,” Ann said softly, turning her gaze toward the two of us. Brad nodded, still smiling, and stepped outside, giving us some privacy.

Once he was gone, Ann’s expression grew more serious, her eyes filled with love and gratitude. “Thank you, both of you,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. “You’ve done more for me than I could ever repay. You’ve given me peace, and for that, I will always be grateful.”

She paused, as if gathering the last of her strength, then continued. “I have to ask…as my last use of energy on this earthly plane, do you want me to switch you back?”

Her question hung there, profound in its implications to our lives. I looked at Aiden, searching his face for an answer. He met my gaze, his expression calm but resolute. I was terrified he would want to switch back.

“I don’t want to switch back,” he said, his voice steady. “This is who I am now, and I would like to stay this way. I have never felt better.”

He turned to me, waiting for my response. I took a deep breath, the fear of what we had been through still fresh in my mind.

“Thank you, Ann, but no,” I said softly, shaking my head. “This experience… it frightened me more than anything, but the gift you gave us was the greatest gift ever. I don’t want to change back. I love being Mia as much as I believe Aiden loves being who he now is.”

Ann smiled, a look of pure peace settling over her features. “Thank you,” she whispered, her form began to fade. “I love you both.”

And with that, she was gone, her presence lifting like a gentle breeze. I took a staggered step toward where she had been, my breath catching with a brief sob. Aiden and I stood there for a moment, the silence in the house now filled with a different kind of quiet. It was silence that spoke of healing, of moving forward, and of the bond we shared.

When we stepped outside to join Brad, the three of us stood together with understanding passing between us. We had faced the darkness, and we had come out stronger on the other side.

***

Sunday morning dawned with a sense of weariness I couldn’t shake. My mother insisted we go to church, saying we had so much to be thankful for. I wasn’t sure I agreed with that. Thankful? For what we had gone through? But I kept those thoughts to myself. Instead, I went to my room and stood in front of my closet, eventually picking out a pretty dress to wear. It was soft, simple, and comforting, like a blanket I could hide myself from the world.

As I looked in the mirror, I was surprised by what I saw. It was still me, bruises and all. The marks across my face and neck were stark reminders of everything that had happened, but for the first time in days, I recognized the girl looking back at me. She wasn’t a stranger anymore. She was me. Mia.

We arrived at church just as the morning light filtered through the stained-glass windows. As we walked up the steps, my friend Naomi appeared, her eyes brimming with tears.

“Mia!” she cried, rushing to hug me. “I heard what happened. I was so scared for you. I’m so thankful you’re okay.”

Her words touched me more than I expected, and I hugged her back, grateful for her kindness. “I’m okay. Sort of.” I whispered, my voice still raw, but the words felt a bit like a lie as I fought once again to control my tears and anger.

We settled into our usual pew, and I let the prayers and music wash over me. My throat was too sore to sing, but I didn’t mind. Instead, I closed my eyes and allowed the melodies to envelope me, easing some of the pain that had settled deep in my soul.

The pastor’s sermon was about forgiveness. How, through forgiveness, it is us who are healed. His words struck a chord deep inside me, and I felt an overwhelming urge to act. Before I knew what I was doing, I stood up, ignoring the questioning looks from those around me. My mother reached out, trying to grab my wrist, but I moved too quickly.

I walked down the aisle, each step feeling heavier than the last. When I reached the front of the church, I fell to my knees in front of the cross. Tears streamed down my face as I bowed my head, my voice trembling as I spoke the words that had been building inside me.

“God, please heal me. I don’t want to carry this bitterness anymore. I don’t want the anger. I don’t know what caused that man to do what he did, but I forgive him.”

My tears fell freely, pooling on the floor as I poured out everything that had been festering inside me. I felt two warm hands rest gently on my back, and I knew without looking that it was my father and mother. Father’s voice, choked with emotion, joined mine.

“I forgive those that harmed my precious daughter.”

On my other side, I felt Mother’s presence, her hand covering mine. Her voice, usually so strong, was trembling as she spoke.

“I seek forgiveness for not protecting my child as I should have. For not listening to her. I release my anger at what was done to her.”

The church had fallen deathly silent, the only sound the quiet murmurs of our prayers and the soft rustle of fabric as people shifted in their seats. Even the pastor had stopped his preaching. Then, I felt another presence. I looked up and back, and through my tear-blurred vision, I saw Aiden walking towards us. My mother glanced back and smiled, moving to make room for him.

Aiden knelt beside me, his face etched with determination and love. “I forgive too,” he said, his voice steady. “For Mia, for all of us. I need to let go of the anger and hatred. I need to release the guilt for not feeling like I protected Mia enough.”

We stayed like that for what felt like an eternity, the four of us united in our grief, our pain, and our forgiveness. When the service ended, and we finally rose to our feet, the pastor approached us, his eyes brimming with emotion and his own tears.

“Thank you,” he said softly, his voice carrying through the stillness of the church. “Thank you for showing us such a beautiful example of what it means to forgive. Forgiveness is not a once and forever event, for we bear the scars and reminders of what was done to us. We will need to forgive many times, but know it gets a little easier each time.”

As we left the church that day, I felt lighter, as if a weight I hadn’t even fully realized I was carrying had been lifted. The road to healing would be long, but in that moment, surrounded by those I loved, I knew I wasn’t walking it alone.

***

That afternoon, Mother, Father, and I sat together in the living room.

Mother fidgeted with her hands and sighed. “Mia, I want to ask you about school. We moved you to Foothills Academy because we disliked what was happening in the public schools. You said that what they chose to do would not change you. Our decision… I only wonder if we had not made that decision if…”

I hugged Mother fiercely. “It’s okay, Mother. You made your decision in my best interest and out of love.”

“You have been so gracious, Mia.” Father’s voice came out loving and kind. “We are humble enough to admit we were wrong. I have no doubt we can send you back to your old school and you will be perfectly fine there. We can make this happen as soon as tomorrow.”

I took a deep breath. “I made some great friends at Foothills, but I’m not sure I would feel safe there. I have my two heroes at my old school. Brad and Aiden will keep me safe. So, if it is not too much of a bother, I would greatly appreciate going back to my old school.”

“About Aiden,” Father hesitated, but his smile spoke volumes. “What I witnessed through this is his undeniable and unquestionable love and honor for you. He was steadfast, resolute, and courageous. We already think of him as part of the family.”

If they only knew. I smiled.

Mother continued. “What we want to say, is that we trust you and Aiden.”

“Thank you.”

***

Months had passed, and though the memories still lingered, the fears that had once haunted me began to ease a little more each day. I found comfort in small victories like sleeping through the night without waking in a panic or seeing a police car drive by without wanting to run away. I had sworn off horror movies entirely, realizing there was no need to invite fear back into my life.

Now, standing in front of the mirror with Mother next to me, I could hardly believe how far I had come. I was dressed in a stunning prom gown, a soft, flowing fabric that hugged my figure in all the right places. My hair was swept up into an elegant style, with a few loose curls framing my face, and light makeup highlighted my features just enough. Mother’s eyes filled with pride and love as she gazed at our reflection.

“You’re so beautiful,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.

I smiled, feeling the warmth of her words sink in. “Thank you, Mother.” I turned and hugged her tightly, grateful for her unwavering support through everything.

The doorbell rang, and we both looked towards the hallway. “Aiden’s here,” Mother said, her smile growing wider.

But I shook my head with a playful smile of my own. “I want him to wait just a little.” My mother chuckled, understanding the anticipation of the moment. I took a deep breath, giving myself one last look in the mirror, then nodded, satisfied.

After a few moments, I made my way to the stairs. I could feel my heart fluttering as I descended, the soft fabric of my gown brushing against my legs. When I reached the bottom, I looked up, and there was Aiden, standing at the foot of the stairs in a tuxedo. The sight of him took my breath away. He was so handsome, so perfect, and the way he was looking at me, like I was the only person in the world, made my heart skip a beat. More like four or five.

He let out the breath he had been holding, his eyes wide with awe. “Mia,” he whispered, his voice full of emotion. “You’re… you’re absolutely stunning.”

I couldn’t help but smile as I took in the sight of him. “You’re not so bad yourself,” I teased, my voice soft and full of affection. I leaned in and kissed him, not worrying at all that my parents were there watching us.

With goodbyes, hugs, a photo or two, and well-wishes from my parents, we headed out the door and made our way to the school. The night was everything I had hoped it would be filled with music, laughter, and dancing. The gymnasium had been transformed into a magical wonderland, twinkling lights hung from the ceiling and the floor was alive with the colors of our gowns and suits as we spun and twirled.

For the first time in what felt like forever, I felt truly alive. Every moment was a celebration of what we had overcome, and I held onto it all, savoring the joy and the love that surrounded me.

As Aiden and I danced, he kissed me, and I smiled.

“I was never so beautiful, Mia.”

“You were. I was never so handsome.”

“I thought you were.”

“Hey you guys!” Brad gave his best Goonies impression as he and Naomi bumped into us.

Brad had leaned out a little over the past few months and something had changed in his personality. He was much more confident in himself.

“Hey handsome. And who is that beautiful girl you are dancing with?”

Naomi giggled.

“Switch!” Brad yelled.

I winked at Naomi and she and I started dancing together. We laughed as Aiden and Brad stared at each other with perplexed looks. Aiden shrugged and he and Brad started dancing. We all laughed.

***

As the evening ended, Aiden took my hand and led me outside. I looked up to see the stars twinkling above us. We walked away from the noise of the dance, the lights of the school glowing softly in the background.

Aiden turned to face me, his expression serious, his eyes filled with so much love it almost overwhelmed me. He took both of my hands in his, holding them gently as he searched my face.

“Mia,” he began, his voice steady, “I have loved you for as long as I can remember. We’ve been through so much together, and I can’t imagine my life without you in it.”

My heart was fluttering with joy and love as I listened to his words, the world around us faded away.

“I want to spend the rest of my life with you, Mia. I want to wake up every morning with you by my side, to face whatever comes our way together. Will you marry me? In a year or two?”

He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small box, opening it to reveal a beautiful ring, the diamond catching the light from the stars above.

Tears welled in my eyes as I looked at him, my heart overflowing with love. “Yes,” I whispered, barely able to get the word out through the lump in my throat. “Yes, Aiden, I will marry you.”

He slid the ring onto my finger, and I threw my arms around him, pulling him into a tight embrace. We stood there under the stars, holding each other, dancing to the faded music coming from the school.

What started as wistful desires and a Halloween night adventure had turned into the greatest gift for both of us. I offered a silent prayer to Ann thanking her as I snuggled into Aiden’s embrace.

 

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Author’s note: I started this story over five years ago with the desire to release it for Halloween. Every year, I added a bit, only to run out of time. This year, I was determined to finish it.

Please take a moment to leave a comment. I love to hear from those that read my stories.

I love you all,

Avia Conner