#millardnulling

“Thank you,” He whispered.

“Anything for you Millard,” I replied with a sweet smile. Once Millard was okay I went to my room. I got out a blank canvas Miss Peregrine was able to get me. I got out my paints and placed everything on/around the easel. 

With swift strokes I was lost in my world of art. I wanted to make this perfect, it is for Millard after all. I made sure to recreate the scene from earlier, taking time to get every detail right. 

*Knock knock*

I ignored the sound and continued painting. I wanted to finished this soon because I couldn’t wait to see how Millard would react.

*KNOCK KNOCK*

The person was getting impatient and I just let out a sigh.

“What?!” I shouted.

“It’s dinner time!” An angry Enoch replied. I let out a sigh and put away my art supplies, making  sure to clean accordingly. 

~~~~

It took a few days to finish the painting. Once I was done I made sure to hide it. I went to find Millard but he was no where to be found.

“Last I checked Millard was studying the pigs,” Emma spoke up. I smiled at her and nodded. I made my way down to the village, waving to people who passed me. I got to the pigs and looked around. Millard was an excellent hider, but I was a better at making him reveal himself.

“I wonder where Millard could be,” I said dramatically. “I wanted to give him a present but if I can’t find him I guess Olive would appreciate it.” 

“Present?” I heard Millard ask to my left. I let out a giggle and nodded. 

“C’mon,” I gestured him to follow me as I started to walk back to the house. 

We walked in silence, in fact the only way I knew he was with me was due to the fact that he was holding my hand. Something that wasn’t unusual for us to do. We were close friends but our bond was definitely stronger than that. 

Once the house was in view I started to run, dragging the poor boy behind me. We got to my room and I made him sit on my bed.

“Are you ready Mill?” I asked with a giant grin. 

“The most ready I’ve ever been,” He replied with what I imagined him to be smiling as well. I grabbed the painting that was in my closet. I turned around and showed him what I created. There was a deafening silence before I was embraced. I hugged back, being careful of the painting. “Thank you,” Millard whispered into my ear.

“Of course,” I whispered back. The painting contained Millard and I, both with loving smiles. Millard pulled away slowly and carefully grabbed the canvas. 

“I’m going to keep this safe and cherish it with my entire being,” He said gratefully. 

“Not as much as I cherish you!”

"J-Jacob?!" I exclaimed out my eyes watering.

"Heeeeeeey (y/n)," He spoke out awkwardly. "How've ya been?"

"That's the first thing you have to say to me after you disappeared?" I shouted, some tears falling down my cheeks. "I was so scared."

"I'm sorry about that (y/n)," He breathed out, he sounded truly sorry. "I didn't mean to scare you all like that. But I'm here now...I also have a favor to ask you."

I stayed silent trying to comprehend what the hell was going on.

"Uh...please don't be mad," He started. "But do you think my friend could stay with you?"

"..." I had no words for how angry I felt at that moment. Did he even know how terrified and sad I felt when he was gone? And now he's just asking for a favor like nothing happened.

"N-now before you -"

"Jacob Portman," I growled out. "You have no clue what you put me through and then you have the audacity to ask me for something like nothing ever happened."

"I really am sorry (y/n)," He pleaded. "But this is a big deal and my friend really needs a place to stay...but lets just say he wouldn't be accepted anywhere and I know how nice you are."

I let out a sigh, "Fine but only because I love you."

"Thank you!" He exclaimed out. "I'll make it up to you I swear!"

"When is your friend going to be here?" I asked out.

Yet the other side was silent.

"...Jacob," I whined out knowing his silence wasn't good.

"We may be outside your door right now..." Jacob trailed off.

I stood up and pulled up my pants and smoothed out my shirt. I definitely wasn't ready for a person to come over at the moment. I tossed on a hoodie and made my way to the front door. Brushing my fingers through my hair I opened the door. Yet I was confused because I only saw Jacob standing there holding a suitcase.

He smiled shyly and waved a bit, "Hey."

I glared at him, "Well, where's your friend?" Jacob looked to his side at nothing and nodded his head.

"Hello, I'm Millard Nulling, at your service ma'am," Someone said. Someone who wasn't visible.  Someone who had no light reflecting off of them, or maybe the light passed through them? Yet I know that that's not possible. Th-this has to be sort of joke.

"He's invisible," Jacob chimed in.

"Is this a prank?" I asked crossing my arms. "Are you trying to become one of those stupid prank channels that are always clearly fake?"

He glared at me, "No this is real, I thought you would be more accepting."

"Wha!" I exclaimed. "Are you trying to guilt me now?! You do know that invisible people aren't exactly the norm so you must understand my disbelief!"

"I'm sorry to have disturbed you miss," Millard the invisible boy apologized. I felt bad for how I treated him and let out a sigh.

"I'm sorry if I offended you Millard," I apologized. "And please, call me (y/n)." Opening the door wider I invited the two boys into my house.

"Do you live here alone?" Millard asked.

"Yeah, my parents got me my own apartment cause I was apparently too much of a bother," I explained shrugging.

"Oh."

"You'll sleep in the guest bedroom," I said pointing out a door to my left. It opened, letting me know this was all real and happening.

"Thank you," He thanked taking the suitcase from Jacob. "You're very kind to house someone like me." I felt my heart crush at how he must feel so alienated in a world like ours. Jacob was right, Millard wouldn't be accepted anywhere, anywhere but here. I will make sure Millard felt like he belonged here and this was a true home.

"I have to get going now," Jacob said. "My parents don't like me being out of their eyesight much anymore."

"I wonder why," I stated sarcastically. "I'm glad your back and safe," I spoke softly pulling him into a big hug. He hugged back and then left after. I turned around facing the room which I think Millard still was in.

"Well Millard," I smiled. "Would you like a tour?"

"Of course!" He exclaimed. "Do you think it could wait a moment though? I should get changed first."

"Oh...OH!" I realized what that meant and felt my cheeks warm up. "U-uh yeah," I stuttered looking away from the room and closing the door. So I have been talking to him while he was nude this entire time, great. After a few seconds the door opened and there stood floating clothes. Old fashioned clothes. Very old fashion.

"I'm ready," Millard said slightly breathlessly.

"Well then follow me and I'll show you around," I smiled. I walked around the big apartment showing him the different rooms. I ended the tour with, "Welcome to your home Millard."

"My...home," Millard repeated.

"You are living here now so this place is yours as much as it is mine," I grinned opening my arms out. "Now how about a hug?" I noticed the shoulders of his jacket tensed and I didn't want to seem too pushy. I let my arms fall slightly but Millard was quick to take the hug that I offered him. He was still tense and awkward but the hug was sweet none the less. We pulled away and a sudden question filled my mind.

"How did you and Jacob meet? And do you know where he disappeared off to?" I asked moving to sit on the couch with Millard sitting next to me.

"Well it's a long and unbelievable story," Millard stated.

"I think I could believe anything you tell me," I laughed. "Plus I got time."

That started Millard's truly unbelievable story, and I believed every word he told me.

Amusement was shown in her birdlike eyes as she told me, "You miss (l/n), are an umbrakinesis. The ability to generate and manipulate shadows." whoah. Okay so that explains the hand disappearing into the inky black...but not exactly the teleporting.

"Some of the abilities your peculiarity can hold are shadow travel, becoming invisible by covering oneself in shadows, seeing well in the dark, form any weapon, absorbing shadows and much more," Miss Peregrine explained. Okay so that's hella rad. "In order for us peculiar's to stay safe we live in loops. Reliving the same day over and over again," She started slowly. Okay wait what? So I'm in a loop which is the same day over again...what day is it than?

"What day is it than?" I asked curiously.

"The day is September 3rd, 1940."

Okay that's a total bombshell (little did I know that would be literal). I think I'm insane. Is this another dream? Or maybe the same dream?

"This must be a lot to take in," She nodded seeing my paling expression. "We shall continue this tomorrow, if you wish to know more about peculiar's I would direct you to talk with Millard. He is quite studious about our history. It seems that it is time for dinner, let us make our way," She spoke standing up. I looked out the window and saw the sun already setting. I stood up and followed her into the dinning room, making sure I can remember the way to her office and the stairs that lead up to my room.

In the room sat a bunch of...peculiar's that seemed well behaved for the most part. There were two empty chairs, one on each side of Emma. One looked like it was already taken so I chose the one the was pushed in.

"Polite person's do not take their supper's in the nude Mr. Nullings," Miss Peregrine scolded...someone. No one in the room was naked though...well until the other empty chair scooted back. Okay so there is an invisible kid.

"No one can see me though," I heard him grumble as he walked passed me. I ALMOST laughed. I felt like I shouldn't though. The children all seemed to be staring at me which wasn't nerve wracking at all. I didn't mean to think it...but the weirdest looking on of them was either a kid with bees all around him or the kid in a suit. I mean who wears a suit like that? I guess apparently it is the 1940s.

Once invisiboy came back wearing some clothes we begane to eat. Well more like I was pelted with a trillion questions.

"Is the future fun?"

"Do you have robot butlers?"

"Is there flying cars?"

And plenty more of the like. So I tried to answer them all.

"The future is alright. No robot butlers. Flying cars aren't a thing either." They mainly seemed disappointed which was understandable. One question stood out though.

"Who are you and why are you here?" The person who asked it looked to be about 12 and was filthy...sorry just stating facts.

"My name is Scarlette and I was supposed to be in a boarding school, but apparently I'm here for protection?" I asked more than stated. I was still processing the whole situation okay?

"What's your peculiarity?" Invisiboy asked in an excited manner.

"Uh-umb...umbra something, I can't quite remember," I muttered sheepishly. How could I forget so quickly?

"Umbrakinesis? That's amazing!" He exclaimed. Okay...not used to complements.

"Th-thanks?" I questioned again. Why couldn't I just say it normally?

"How about you all introduce yourselves now that you got to know our newest member," Miss P ordered more than asked.

First to introduce themselves was a little girl named Claire. Then Bronwyn who had the strength of up to 10 men. Next it was Emma, with Millard after...his peculiarity being obvious. Then it was Enoch who sat at the end of the table. After it was Hugh who had bees living in his stomach (how is that not uncomfortable?) and Fiona who could control plants. Then Olive who was lighter than air. Finally it was Horace who had prophetic dreams...which only sometimes came true. After everyone went to talk among themselves which made me feel left out a bit.

I finished my plate but I didn't get up or leave. I didn't know if I was supposed to wait for everyone finish or not. Yet before I could continue to freak out internally the sound of air raid sirens and planes went off. What the fuck-

"Can we show her? Can we please?" The children started to beg to Miss P. Show me what? An actual bomb? Shouldn't we hide and take cover? I didn't actually think this was the 1940s but the sirens proved enough for me.

Miss Peregrine nodded with a slight chuckle as the kids started to run out of the house. Emma left with them and I didn't want to get left behind so I followed closely. "Put on your masks children!" Her stern voice rang out. Oh no I don't have one. They all put on gas masks and I had no clue what to do.

"Here," Someone next to me said. I looked over and noticed the absence of a face meaning it was Millard. "Put it on." He handed me a gas mask and I quickly put it on trying to not hyperventilate. Not to mention this was like a terrible fear of mine, the creepy history photos of children wearing gas masks and the fear of getting hit by a bomb. Looks like I'm living that moment right now.

I felt someone pat my shoulder in a reassuring way...which didn't help at all I mean come the fuck on. "Don't worry, nothing bad's gonna happen," Millard tried to calm me down. All the kids were laughing which seemed to be directed to me which fuck them for that. I'm literally having a panic attack. Then the devil seemed to posses them all as they sang a song.

Run rabbit, run rabbit, run, run, run Don't give the farmer his fun, fun, fun He'll get by without his rabbit pie So run rabbit, run rabbit, run, run, run

The bomb fell and landed perfectly on Adams finger before the world went white. Did I die? Is this what death is like? No I still felt Millard's hand on my shoulder. So then what the fuck is going on? Suddenly the world reversed. The bomb flew back up and the sun came up and set in the opposite way. Okay so this is a loop and this is all happening. Yup I'm totally sane.

Miss P took her mask off and smiled gently to us all, "Time for bed now, Miss Bloom would you show Miss (l/n) back up to her room again?" I took my mask off and Emma came up to me.

She gave me a look of concern before asking, "Are you alright?"

"Y-yeah," I muttered still shaking from that terrible 'joke' they played on me.

"You're crying," She stated with a frown.

"She was a bit startled," Millard spoke up making me jump in shock. Forgot he was still there, he's pretty quiet.

"More like scared shitless," I mumbled to myself but I could tell they both heard.

"Well its getting late, I'll bring you to your room," With that said I was in my room staring at the ceiling. The adrenaline from the bomb was keeping me up but I just dealt with it.

I nodded and closed my eyes trying to concentrate on the shadows to cover the room. It was hard for me due to how tired I felt but once I opened my eyes I noticed the room was dark. Yet I could still see in it.

Miss P let out a puff of smoke from her pipe, "Okay good job, you may release it now." I cleared my mind and so did the room. "Now try to absorb all the shadows in the room."

I imagined that I was like some sort of vacuum and tried to bring the shadows to me yet nothing happened. Why can't I do it? I furrowed my eyebrows and tried to focus even harder but it felt like my brain is just frizzling.

"That's enough dear," Miss P said stopping me. "No need to overwork yourself. You see our peculiarities are like muscles, if you overwork it you could be hurt dastardly. I think that's enough for today."

"Uhm, Miss P," I called out. "I have a question."

"Go ahead," She smiled.

I inhaled a deep breath before saying, "Why can't the others leave this loop?"

She let out a long sigh, "I see. The reason the others can't leave is because they would die. If they are in present time for too long they will age up rapidly and turn to dust." Oh jeeze, so once you're here you really can't leave. Wait that means I'll never see my mother again, I'm stuck here living the same day over and over again.

"You must understand miss (l/n)," Miss P told me with a stern look. "There are worse things out there that want to hurt us then just the people. This loop is here to protect us from those monsters and I can't have you endangering the other children."

"D-don't worry miss," I slightly stuttered. I just wanted an explanation. I guess I can't leave now, I do hope mom won't worry too much.

"Now how about you go eat lunch," She said with a tired smile. I got up and left to the kitchen. Y'know I haven't seen Millard around much lately, where could he go off to? I made myself a sandwich, the only other person in the room being Hugh.

"Hey," I waved. He nodded in response. "Have you seen Millard?"

"Not exactly. He is invisible,"  He replied with a smirk. Okay he's a smartass.

"Not what I meant," I said crossing my arms.

"You called m'lady," Millard spoke up out of nowhere. Must've just entered.

"I just noticed that you haven't been around in the past couple days," I shrugged going to get myself something to drink.

"That's my cue to leave," Hugh mumbled giving us both a knowing look. Good God I hope Emma didn't start any rumors, or maybe the kids just really want some drama.

"Ah see that my dear," Millard started, I could tell he seemed to be proud about whatever he was about to say next. Wait did he say my dear- "I am making the most detailed account of September 3rd, 1940. I will be seen as an amazing scholar and my work will be shared throughout loops all over the world!"

"So you study everyone on the island?" I asked dumbing it down for myself.

"Pretty much," He said.

"And you're naked once again?" I asked raising an eyebrow,  a small smile making its way onto my face.

"...yup," He sighed dejectedly. I let out a small chuckle shaking my head. "Is that really all you got from that?" I could practically hear his pout.

"No, what you're doing sounds pretty neat," I smiled cleaning my dishes.

"W-w-would you like to come with me?" He asked stuttering. Why was he stuttering?

"Sure, why not?" I asked.

"Because its a total bore," Emma laughed as she walked in.

"No it's not," Millard said defensively.

"How would she not skew your results?" Emma asked with a raised eyebrow. "She's not invisible like you."

"Did you forget she's an umbrakinesis?" Millard asked. He really wanted me to go with him huh? "She can hide herself in the shadows."

"I'm sure it can't be that bad," I shrugged drying my hands off. "When are you heading off next?"

"After I eat," Millard said making something. I sat with him and we talked a bit more about what he studies. He's gotten a ton done that's for sure, but I guess that would happen when you have nothing to do for centuries. Turns out he's almost done studying pigs, now I'm not too fond of those things but I guess it's better than nothing. After he was done we made our way down onto the island, which made me realize that I haven't seen much besides the kids home.

"You haven't had a tour of the island yet have you?" Millard asked.

"Nope," I replied, popping the p.

"How about I take you on a tour than?"

"Sounds like fun!" I laughed a bit.

"Then follow me miss," I imagined him to be bowing at the moment.

"Uhm..." I mumbled not exactly knowing how that would work out since I can't really see him.

"Oh right," He sounded disappointed. "U-uh here, just so you don't get lost." I felt someone grab my hand, well I guess that someone is Millard. I felt myself get flustered as I've never held a guys hand...or anyone's after I was seven. I nervously fidgeted with the hem of my shirt with my free hand. Millard showed me around the village and the little shops that were there. Then the beach and the green hills that were actually cliffs and I may have almost fell over. Not once did he let go of my hand and I grew comfortable. In fact I found it quite pleasant. You have to understand I felt disappointed that he let go when we got back to the house.

It was a perfect day though if you ask me.

Being here wasn't too bad. There may be the monsters that hunt us and we can't leave the loop/island, but if they could do it for so long I think I'll be good. It's been a few months and nothing much has changed. I would either play with the young ones or hang out with Emma and Millard. I've rarely seen Enoch, he's mostly in his room. I was sitting with Emma when she suddenly sat up like she had an idea.

"Let's go swimming!" She exclaimed looking over at me. "I can go gather some of the others."

"Sure," I agreed with a smile. "I haven't swam in a while."

"Great!" She smiled joyously, standing up. She offered her hand and I took it, holy fuck is she strong. I walked with her as she got Fiona, Hugh, and Millard. The only ones who agreed to come with. Fiona and Hugh were being super mushy even though I can tell they were trying to hide their relationship. They really weren't that good at it, but it's fine cause they are adorable. Millard was off in his own world, watching what he's been researching for centuries happen over once again. Meanwhile Emma was talking to me about how she once caught Horace and Enoch blushing over something.  They had me wear a dress...yes a effing dress. It was so I could blend in at the village so they wouldn't try and torture/kill me. I didn't enjoy it but I guess I'll have to endure it. Once we got to the beach I realized that we have no swimsuits to change into.

I guess Millard doesn't have to worry about that. Emma dragged me off to this weird tiny cave like thing that held some old fashioned swim suits. They were actually cute. We all changed and went into the water, what I didn't know was that you could kind of see Millard since the water didn't turn invisible. We got to the water that ended up at my waist and I wanted to go deeper. So I did just that, I went in deeper but was quickly stopped by Millard.

"I wouldn't go too deep," He started. "The waters here aren't the safest, don't know if there's a sub or not under those waters."

"Oh," I said feeling myself unintentionally pouting.

"Don't worry, we can still have a lot of fun closer to shore," He said trying to cheer me up. I wasn't sad, just disappointed. So, to try and cheer myself up, I splashed towards the void in water where Millard stood. Which he splashed me back. So I splashed him with more water which ended up hitting Emma. So she went to splash me but hit Millard instead. Well lets just say it started a major splash war. Sides were taken, me and Millard, Emma (alone), and Hugh and Fiona. It ended with us drying off on shore. I just sat instead of laying down since I hate the sand. It's rough and course and it gets everywhere. (hehehe)

We ended up just changing back into our clothes and heading back to the house. This time Millard would point out something that would happen seconds before it did. Emma just grinning at the two of us. Fiona and Hugh were sneaking small kisses on the cheek and I did my best to not squeal at how ADORABLE it was!

"Now Mr. Hidgens will glance out the window," Millard said as we passed by a house. A man with silver hair looked around before shutting his curtains. "He thinks the apocalypse is going to come any day." (I'm sure no one will get that reference)

"I can't decide whether that's creepy or cool," I smiled.

"My studies are impressive," And I'm pretty sure I boosted his ego once more.

Emma leaned over and whispered in my ear, "He's totally showing off to impress you." I felt a small blush rest on my cheeks as I covered my face a bit with my hand.

"What did you tell her Emma," Millard asked sternly when she pulled away.

"Just that you're totally boring," Emma smirked. Before they could argue anymore we reached the house. I rushed in ready to change into something more comfortable to me. I decided to just lay by myself to think a bit. Does Millard really like me like that? Or is Emma just trying to force something that would never happen? It's weird because I feel like I'm starting to gain a small crush on Millard if I'm being real. He's just so sweet but is also slightly sarcastic. It doesn't help that he HAS been trying to impress me a lot lately, or at least it seems like it. I wouldn't mind if he asked me out...I think I should get to know him some more. We may be good friends and I know a lot about him already, but I still don't know his favorite color!

Maybe that's what my goal should be, get to know Millard...even more than I do now! Yeah, and I'll start that tomorrow.

"H-huh?" I asked looking at her from where I laid in my bed. "O-oh, yeah I'm good, I'm just thinking about something."

"If you say so dear," She spoke softly with concern. "Well I got a letter, and I was wondering what you would think about it." I tilted my head not quite sure what she meant. She handed me a letter and it read:

Dear Miss (L/n),

I am the headmistress of a boarding school on a small island in Wales named Cairnholm. I was wondering if you would like to send your daughter. I noticed that she has astounding grades and she would come here on a scholarship. All her fees would be payed, please respond as soon as you can for she can start as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

Miss Peregrine

I was astonished by this letter. Me going to another country? An island? That sounded totally rad! I could feel my mood lighten slightly. But if I go then Ashley-

oh wait.

Maybe if I go I can make some new friends! Better ones who actually care about me as a person. Yeah, think positively. This is a one of a lifetime opportunities and nothings holding me back from taking it.

"Oh could I go?" I pleaded. "Please, this sounds amazing and I want to go really badly."

"I just want to make sure with you," Mom said with a small smile. "You'll be gone from home for a really long time and I don't want you to feel like I'm just sending you off."

"Yeah I'm sure!" I exclaimed. It's like a new life away from all the drama that happened. "This is awesome!" My mom slightly chuckled before standing up.

With a small nod she responded, "Okay then, I'll write her back right away. I'm glad you get to have an experience like this." She then left my room. Now I had a lot more to think about.

I get to go to Wales. Isn't that by Sweden or something? Do they speak English? How did they find out about me specifically? I'm not that special. In the note she spoke of me having astounding grades, but last I checked they were mostly average. The only thing that really stood out about me was...whatever I can do with the powers. It almost seems like I'm the main character of some X-Men comic. I wonder how I can control it, well...whatever it is. It didn't seem like I have a common super power like telekinesis or invisibility. I was able to travel to my house from school in a matter of seconds, and I could also turn my hands into some inky...shadow thingie.

'Is that all I can do?' was the last thing I thought of before drifting off to sleep.

School was terrible. Now friendless and seen as a freak by my peers, it was a living nightmare. I guess Austin and Rich spilled everything and now I was the top gossip at school. Ashley would always give me pity glances which rubbed me the wrong way every time. Not trying to open a can my ass. I dealt with glances and whispers everywhere I went. How do they even believe that I have these super powers anyways? Wouldn't seem like Rich and Austin where loony? Well I thought that until...

"Hey you slut!" A voice shouted, I didn't think it was to me so I didn't stop walking to my next class. "Hey I'm talking to you (l/n)!" Which made me freeze in my tracks...slut? I turned around slowly, scared of what I was about to hear next.

"M-me?" I asked pointing to myself, clearly confused. It was a kid in one of my classes, his name was Max or something.

"Yeah you!" He retorted like I was an idiot. "You really think you're all that trying to get with Rich, your best friends boyfriend huh."

Excuse me what? I hate Rich, and I wouldn't do that to Ashley, I actually cared for her. I furrowed my eyebrows, a frown etched onto my face. So they didn't tell the truth, but instead chose to spread lies about me. Okay now I truly hated them all.

"No, I didn't do that," I responded trying to not get too angry. Don't worry me, I'm leaving this hell hole soon. I'm going to a nice little island where no one here can bother me. Tomorrow I'm leaving on plane then the rest by ferry, all will be well.

"Now you're just trying to save face," He sneered as kids started to gather around. "You're such a slag."

That was it, I felt so incredibly frustrated and angry that tears streamed down my face, "I'M NOT A SLAG!" I screeched and ran off to the bathroom. I angrily wiped at my tears as I locked myself in a stall. I took out my phone and called my moms work phone.

"(Y/n)?" She asked with slight concern. "Is something the matter? You know I'm at work and can't chat for long."

"I-I want t-t-to go home," I stuttered through my tears. "C-can you pick m-me up?"

"I-I can try," She responded sounding a bit stressed. "I'll be there as soon as possible."

I sat in the bathroom for a bit over an hour as I tried to calm myself down. I took deep breathes as I tried to think happy thoughts. The new school I'm going to attend, puppies and kitties, how cool the internet is. Then my freedom came as I heard the intercom ask for me at the front office.

My mom and I drove quietly back to our house. The windows were down and the fresh breeze made everything better. I noticed that she would glance at me, like she wanted to ask me what happened but decided against it. I let out a deep sigh. I'll thankfully never have to see anyone from that school in a long time. Kinda weird that my power didn't work that time.

Ashley's smile seemed to get wider and wider as we got closer to the cafeteria. I didn't pay much attention to that though, I mean we were both weird in our own ways. I followed her as she took a seat next to Rich. What a bummer, I'm gonna have to be a third wheel again. I sat across from them as she whispered something to him. He was wearing a white t-shirt with a leather jacket over, paired with some jeans. Ugh a bad boy wanna be. He nodded back at her, his blonde hair bouncing slightly.

I got out my lunch, ready to not speak to anyone for a bit. It was peaceful...well as peaceful as it can get in a rowdy high school, until someone took a seat next to me. I glanced at the person from the corner of my eye only to see Austin. Oh god please tell me Ashley didn't do anything.

"Sup," He said with a nod.

"Sup," Rich and Ashley said back. My plan was to pretend I never saw him...that can't go wrong. A foot kicked me and I looked up at Ash as she gave me a light glare and glanced at Austin. Basically telling me to talk to him. So this was her doing, how great.

"Hey," I mumbled looking back down at my food. Please I don't want to get started with anything.

"So, (y/n)," Ashley started making me look up at her again. "We were all planning on going on a double date, what do you think?" I-is she really gonna do this? I was getting angry, she knew I was too nice to say no to Austin's face and was using that against me. I was feeling really pressured at the moment and I just wish I could get out of this situation. I started to tap the table anxiously as I thought of what I should say. I wish I could just disappear, or magically be at my house and out of this situation.

All of a sudden my entire vision went black. I felt a lump in my throat as everything around me felt cold. Then in the next second I was in my room. Wait I'm in my room? I looked around and stared at my clock. It read 12:35, which was still lunch for school. I glanced at my calendar and noticed that it was still Friday. How did I get here? Especially in such a short amount of time! My legs felt weak and my mind was mush. I stumbled and landed onto my bed trying to process what just happened.

I-it was almost like I teleported. But teleportation isn't real. It can't be! It's just not scientifically possible at the moment. I don't understand, this just, it's so surreal. DREAM! I have to be dreaming! That makes a lot of sense! My anxiety from the real world must've made me imagine this entire thing up. Ashley would never do that to me! Yeah...

My eyelids felt heavy as I slowly laid back onto my bed relishing in the comfort. I curled up and decided some shut eye will do good, then I can wake up from this bizarre nightmare thing.

I woke up feeling more refreshed. I let out a small yawn as the sound of my Nokia phone went off. I picked it up and glanced at the number. Oh, Ashley's calling me, I wonder what about. Man that dream I had was so weird, yet it seemed so real. Whatever. I picked up the call as I heard Ashley talk to me frantically which was unusual.

"What the hell was that (y/n)? Where are you? Are you okay? You literally just disappeared through this weird black portal thing!" Ashley rushed out.

"W-what do you mean?" I asked. "I'm fine what happened again?"

"Did you not hear me?" She exclaimed. "You fucking disappeared into nothing!"

"S-so that wasn't a dream?" I asked in shock. No fucking way do I have powers. People don't get powers like that.

"I..." Ashley trailed off, almost like she was ashamed about something. "I can't be friends with you anymore."

I felt something in me shatter at that moment. My best friend, my only friend, doesn't like me because...I have these freakish powers. That I didn't even know I had till today. I mean it's still processing for me. My eyes started to water and I knew that I couldn't stop the waterfall from falling.

"Wh-wh-what," I stammerd through my sobs. "W-why, I didn't even know I could do that till today. And I didn't mean to do that!"

"You embarrassed me in front of Rich AND Austin," She said sounded embarrassed recalling the events prior. "My reputation would be ruined. I don't mean to open a can on you."

So many emotions were running through me at that moment. The more prominent ones were anger and sadness. "Y-you're a terrible friend and I hate you!" I shouted letting my heart control me. I hung up on her, not wanting another bull excuse.

A knock was heard on my door, "(Y/n), why the hell am I getting a call from your school saying you missed the second half?" My mom sounded furious. Oh lord almighty I don't need to deal with any more negative emotions. What the hell is going on with my life?

I shouldn't be so sad about something so stupid. I shouldn't let this get me down. Yeah, I'll go make friends with Enoch. I should've done that earlier honestly. He said to not bother him, but I can tell he wants a friend deep down. Or is that just me reaching again?

I got out of my bed and walked down to the basement. I saw the walls were lined with hearts of all sizes. It made me shudder and the stench of formaldehyde did not sit well with my stomach. It reminds me of that time in high school where we dissected a frog. It was dim since the only light source were a couple dull light bulbs but I still managed to see Enoch at a table working on one of his little clay dolls.

"I thought we had a deal," He spoke out not looking away from his creation.

"I-I know but-" He cut me off.

He turned around and glared at me, "Get out."

"I wanted to see your peculiar," I blurted out trying to get some sort of connection with him.

He just let out a sigh, seeing how I was going to be stubborn about this. He went back to what he was doing, so I walked closer so I could see what that was. I stood next to him as he skillfully made a face. He then opened up the chest cavity and ordered me to get him a mouse heart. So I took my best guess and picked a jar that had tiny hearts in it. He picked one out and put it into the doll. Oh.

The clay figure stood up and looked around. Amazing! I've never seen anything like it! I felt my eyes widen as Enoch whispered something to it and it started to fight another clay doll.

"That's so cool!" I exclaimed. One of the dolls struck the other in the chest ripping the heart out. The sight of the gore caused me to get queasy but I still found it super fly. Enoch looked at me like I was insane.

"What do you mean?" He asked skeptically.

"I mean that what you can do is amazing!" I exclaimed with a smile. He looked surprised but tried to hide it.

"You're too happy," He grumbled. "It's annoying."

"Oh, sorry," I sheepishly smiled. "So this is what you do all the time?"

"For the most part," He shrugged picking up the dolls that became inanimate once more. "When I'm not harvesting hearts." I could tell he was trying to creep me out. He had so many hearts that I'm sure he won't have to for a long time.

"Could I please stay and watch," I pouted a bit hoping he won't mind.

He glared at me for a couple seconds, thinking over the options, "Fine, but only if you stop your racket and don't touch anything." I nodded my head and pulled up a stool to sit on. We sat their in silence that was somewhat peaceful...if watching a full blown doll war was peaceful. Enoch seemed to warm up to me as he seemed more relaxed as the time went on.

Then the sound of footsteps were heard. I looked behind me to see...nothing. Wait is that Millard? I felt my heart flutter and shatter at the same time. I'm happy to see him yet I'm sad that he probably doesn't want to see me.

"Oh," I heard him mutter.

"What do you want," Enoch asked coldly, his gaze meeting mine for a second before going back to his dolls.

"The bird wants to see you Enoch," Millard said dryly.

"Gah, what does she want this time?" Enoch grumbled to himself standing up. I stood up as well going to do my own thing but I was stopped by Millard grabbing my wrist gently.

"What were you doing with Enoch?" He asked somewhat harshly.

"I was just hanging out with him," I replied in confusion. Why was Millard so angry?

"I wouldn't if I were you," He grumbled. "He's no good." I started to feel angry, who does he think he is?

"He isn't as bad as everyone was telling me," I argued. "He wasn't the most nice, but he isn't that mean either."

"What, you have a crush on him?!" Millard shouted. He let out a huff and walked away, since he let go of me and I heard him stomp away. What the hell just happened? Why does Millard care so much? Wait why would he care so much?

Was Millard jealous?

I was honestly shocked when I came to the realization that Millard was jealous. It also kinda pissed me off too. He's the one who has been avoiding me so he has no right to be jealous when I hang out with someone else. What does he want me to do? Mope around my room instead?

Yet I couldn't help but feel my heart flutter at it. He still cared about me, and he still liked me, he just probably didn't know what to do. Well I can tell you this, he definitely has been going about it the wrong way. He shouldn't be giving me so many mixed signals. So I went to find him and turns out he was in the library. What else did I expect?

"Millard I want to talk to you," I said startling him from his book. I stood behind the sofa that he was sitting on and it seemed he was so in his book he didn't noticed me.

"W-what about?" He slightly stuttered out. Probably nervous about what I was going to say, he does seem like the type to avoid confrontations. I'm the same way but this situation is different.  I sat next to him and stared at where I think his eyes would be, it didn't help that he wasn't wearing a hat. I took the open book out of his hands, making sure to mark where he left off cause I'm not a jerk.

"You've been avoiding me," I said bluntly. Normally I'm not this blunt but when something irritates me I tend to say what's on my mind. It doesn't help that I've been hanging out with Enoch more.

"I have not," He replied back nervously. Oh my bird can he just...not?

"As if!" I exclaimed with a slight glare. "I walk into a room and you're outta there as soon as you can!" I could tell he was playing with his hands since the sleeves of his jacket were moving a bit. I felt bad for yelling, why can't I stay made at him? I let out a sigh trying to cool off and said calmly, "I just want to know if I did something wrong."

"No!" He shouted quickly after that left my mouth. "It's not you! Well, you didn't do anything wrong."

"But it has something to do with me?" I asked. "If you don't like hanging out with me you could've just told me Millard. I wouldn't have thrown a fit or anything."

"Th-that's not it either," He said sounding exasperated. "I love hanging out with you!" Okay now this is extremely confusing.

"Then why...wha?" I asked out confused, this was hurting my brain. Can't he just tell me what's up outright?

Millard took a deep breath before continuing, "I...I uh, I um. Ilikeyoumorethanafriend."

It took a few seconds for my brain to process what he said and I felt the surprise hit me like a truck. He like me? ME? I mean I think I have a crush on him...okay I totally do but still. I didn't realize how long I was being quiet because Millard started to babble once more about how he 'understands that I don't feel the same way'.

"Millard shut up," I said trying to keep my smile down. He really like me huh. "I like you too."

I could tell he was flabbergasted as he couldn't seem to comprehend the situation, "Y-you do?"

"Why wouldn't I?" I asked pulling him in for a hug. He hugged back and we stayed like that for awhile. The summer buzz being the only sound we heard along with the laughter of the others. The hug turned into more of a cuddle as we just laid in each others arms. Sometimes it pays for me to be angry I guess.

The door opened and revealed Emma standing behind it, "There you two are!" Millard let out a sigh and I couldn't help but giggle. "What are you two doing anyways?" She asked as a smirk started to form upon her lips.

"Well," I started not knowing exactly if me and Millard were a thing. "I think I just became Millard's girlfriend." I said looking down at him for approval.

"And I think I just became (y/n)'s boyfriend," He said back. I felt a smile creep onto my face hearing that. I never in a million years thought this would happen (I mean I am in some crazy fantasy world at the moment). If this is a dream please don't wake me up.

"Enoch owes me $2!" I heard Horace shout with glee. They were betting on us?! I laid my head on his chest in embarrassment. I felt him rub my back and I could feel the glare he was shooting at the others.

"Could we just have some time alone please?" Millard asked out with slight annoyance in his voice. I heard someone make kissing noises before they all left. Did everyone seriously come just for that? Ugh.

I felt someone place their hand on my cheek and lift my face up. I looked at where Millard laid and smiled slightly, a small blush dusting my cheeks.

"I have no clue how you do it (n/n)," He whispered.

"Do what?" I asked.

"You make me feel seen," He said softly. "Even though I'm invisible it's like you can see me." I felt my heart melt at his words. I'm glad I can offer him that.

"Because I see who you are as a person," I replied. "You're not just a brain, or an invisible person. You have your own feelings, you're funny, you're kind, and so much more." His thumb rubbed my cheek softly and I was practically melting at his warm touch. I felt like I was soaring through the sky, yet weirdly grounded at the same time.

This feeling I felt was definitely not just plain liking him. It was stronger than that. Like I would do anything for this boy. I just want him to be happy and loved.

Is this love?

"Y'know this loop isn't all sunshine and rainbows," A strong accented voice rung out snapping me out of my thoughts. I looked down and saw the scowl of the pudgy 12 year old. Was his name...Eno...Eno something.

"Huh?" I questioned out loud. What does he mean by that?

"There's a reason why we can't leave and why soon you won't be able to either," He spoke out mysteriously. I noticed that he was holding a piece of clay...why? What a weird kid.

"Oh," I mumbled out not knowing how to reply. "Could you...tell me?" I asked sliding closer to where he stood so he knew I was interested in the conversation.

"Nah," He shrugged with a glare and walked towards the basement. "You should ask Millard and Emma about what happened to Victor, or maybe you could ask him yourself. He's in the last room at the end of the hallway upstairs." With that he left me alone once again in the living room.

Who's Victor? I feel a sudden foreboding sensation wash over me, like he just spoke about something that was forbidden. I was kinda curious though, what did he mean when he said I wouldn't be able to leave? Should I ask Emma? Enoch I think his name was, said that I could ask Victor himself, yet I haven't seen a Victor here. Was he just messing with me? A wave of indecision hit me and I had no clue what to do. Should I ask Miss P about it tomorrow? I mean I did start my lessons then.

"A penny for your thoughts?" Emma's voice spoke out, taking a seat next to me. Now's my chance should I ask or not? I looked at her as I was internally panicking. Yet her brown eyes seemed to soothe me to a slight calm.

"Who's Victor?" My question seemed to strike a cord in her as she froze up, her eyes widening. Oh no this was a terrible thing to do, I shouldn't of said anything.

"Who told you that?" She asked sharply, her eyes narrowing. I felt myself shrink as I wished I never said anything. I hated getting in trouble and the fact that she seemed to be scolding me at the moment made me want to cry. I didn't want to rat out Enoch though because what if he hates me then?

"U-uh," I stuttered not knowing what to do.

"It was Enoch wasn't it?" Emma seethed clenching her fists.

"Don't get him in trouble!" I exclaimed. "I don't think he meant any harm." I knew what I said was a pure lie. I could tell he wanted me to doubt this place and leave but still, I just can't be mean back to him. That would make me as bad as him, and I'm sure he has his reasons.

"Don't bother trying to cover for that weasel," Emma growled. "He's purely rotten." I'm sure that isn't true, he kinda gives me 'I don't actually hate you I'm just scared to care' vibes.

"Well that's a bit rude," I grumbled furrowing my eyebrows. "But that doesn't answer my question. Who is Victor and what happened to him?"

She let out a frustrated sigh, "I can't tell you that."

This left me confused, "Why not?" Instead of answering me she just stood up and left. Well that makes things ten times more ominous and from her reaction I probably shouldn't ask anyone else.

Or I could ask Enoch, try to get on his good side and have him explain the bad things that come with this place. I don't want to irritate him though and he seems to have a bad temper. What to do, what to do. From the way Emma talked about Enoch I'm sure no one else likes him, maybe I can become his friend...aw who am I kidding? Why would he want to be friends with  me anyways? It wouldn't hurt to try.

I decided to make my way into the basement where I last saw Enoch go. Yet I was stopped.

"(Y/n)?" Claire asked out. "Do you want to play dolls with me?" I looked over to her, her blonde curls falling neatly onto her shoulders. She gave me a pleading look with her blue puppy dog eyes. Become friends with Enoch or disappoint Claire? I could always be friends with him later on, so with that I nodded towards the young girl. Which now that I think about it...how old is she really? If they are about 60 years older than I thought she would be like...66 years old? She dragged me to the front yard where two dolls sat along with some other play things.

I personally never played dolls before so I have no clue what to do. She sat down, her blue dress puffed around her. I sat down next to her as she handed me a porcelain doll, so creepy. Guess I'll have to postpone my curiosity for the dark side of  paradise.