NIGHTLIGHT SVILLE NOVEL

NIGHTLIGHT SVILLE NOVEL PART 1
NightLights: Sville Novel

Table of Contents
Chapter 1) Elias M
Chapter 2) The Purple Bandana
Chapter 3) Joining the Gang
Chapter 4) The Training
Chapter 5) Thanksgiving
Chapter 6) The Gifts and Christmas
Chapter 1) Elias M
Chapter 7) New Year’s and New Hang Out!
Chapter 8) Strange Feelings
Chapter 9) Alex VS Elias
Chapter 10) The Empty House
Chapter 11) The Clues
Chapter 12) First Date
Chapter 13) The New School Year


Message from the Author
Dear Readers

This Story is taken during 1999 – 2003! Now enjoy the story!




It’s hot! It’s Boring! And summer is just around the corner! Today is my last day of my 2nd Grade! I should be happy and Celebrating but I feel Sad because a Friend of mine is moving away today! Elmer is my Friend name! My 2nd Grade teacher told me with the baby talk and said: “ooh? Elias! You’re going to the Healy School! That’s close where you live!”
I looked at her and said oh! My 2nd Grade kept telling me to be happy but I’m a type of kid who liked to be isolated from others and never play with the other kids! I’m not shy or scared but that’s what everybody sees me in! Elmer is the only friend who talks to me whenever I’m alone! But the funny part is that he is a bully! He picks on kids and slams them against the wall! But he never bullied me not once. Elmer treats me differently than others kids.

After School I said goodbye to Elmer and his mom picked him up and drove off! That was the last time that I saw Elmer! My mother came and picked me up and while we were walking to the car. I looked back to my teacher and wave goodbye. When we got home there was a lady sitting on the sofa. I didn’t smile or said hi but I was scared for some reason! My mother talked to the lady and I went to my room. Couple of minutes later, the lady came into my room and introduce herself. She’s a therapist! “I don’t know what that is” I said. The Therapist just Smile and pulled out a bag. It was full of toys. I looked at it and then looked the other way!
The Therapist said: “Do you like to play with toys”. I told her that I never played toys and I don’t like them. I looked at her and she was writing. “Why are you writing?” I asked. The therapist didn’t say anything! I had a strange chill and I yelled mom. My mom rushed in! The therapist said something in Spanish! I couldn’t understand but my mom gave me a weird look! The therapist got up and said: “is weird for boy to not like toys” I got up and ran to the bathroom and locked myself. They kept telling me to open the door but I kept saying no and telling my mom to get rid of that therapist. 10 minutes later the Therapist left and I open the door and walk to my room and pretend nothing happened. I got my rollerblade and started to skate all over the Mistic projects. When I got home my mother told me to wash up! My two little brothers ran to the kitchen table and started eating. The 2nd youngest is Henry and the youngest is Albert. I sat down but something wasn’t right. My plate only had less amount of food than my Brothers. I didn’t say anything. I just ate piece of bread and ate little of rice. I looked up and my mom looked at me like she was angry. I guess of what happened earlier. I looked at my Brothers and they were gobbling up the food like an animal. “Are you sure you want to eat that delicious food?” my mother said. I looked at my plate and I barely ate. But the way my mother said that. I felt scared and didn’t want to eat my food. So I got up went to my room.

Chapter 2) The Purple bandana

2 years past by and I’m going to the Powder House School! It’s my 5th grade year. The part that I don’t get is how am I in the 5th grade. The first day of School it was sunny and warm. My mother woke me up and then took me to the Healy. I was waiting my school bus to take me to Powder House. My mother gave me money and walked away without saying goodbye. “Damn this is gonna suck” I said. 5 minute passed by and I noticed a guy leaning against the fence near the stair and wearing a trench coat. He looked at me and stared. I did the same until the school bus arrived. He started to walk down the stair and I got in the bus. When I got to school, I went to my classroom and I looked around to see an empty chair. There was an empty chair near a tall kid. I sat down and looked at the clock. My new teacher Ms. Gill walked in and she was small. “Morning Kids” Ms. Gill said. Everyone replied back but me.
I just stood quiet. Our first assignment was to draw but we have to draw one of our classmate. (Damn I’m not a good drawer.) I said to myself. When I finished it didn’t look bad, actually it was good. Ms. Gill looked at my drawing and said “Wow! Elias that’s pretty good” I think she said that just to make me fell better. I raised my hand and said that I needed to go to the bathroom. “Go use the down stair bathroom, the one near us is broken.” Ms. Gill said. So I went and 5 minute later I ran back to the classroom and when I took a turn I bump into a girl. “Are you okay? Owe? ” I said. “Yeah! But it’s my fault!” the girl replied. I notice there was stuff on the floor. So I picked it up for her then I came across of a purple bandana and give it back to the girl. The girl apologized and walked away. When I got back to the classroom. Everybody was eating! I looked at the clock and it was 10. “Wow you guys eat this early?” I said. “ It’s snack time” Ms. Gill replied. I said oh and then sat down. “Did you bring any snack?” Ms. Gill asked. I said no and told her that I never heard of a snack time.
I looked everywhere and every single of my classmate were munching down their snack. I said to my self that it’s a bad idea. It’s a faster way to get fat. I normally eat twice a day. After school I was waiting for my school bus but when I looked around I notice someone with a black trench coat who is standing next to a red car. I realized it was the same guy who I’ve seen near the Healy. The girl that I bumped into earlier walked to him and then pulled out her purple bandana and put it on her forehead. Both got in the red car and the guy looked at me and stared at me for 5 second. Then drove off to the east. My bus came and I got in. The whole time I couldn’t stop thinking about the girl with the purple bandana.


Chapter 3) Joining The Gang

2 days later! It’s Friday and hot. School was pretty normal and boring. After school! I got home and there was a man sitting on the sofa. The first thing I came across is that he might be another stupid therapist. “You must be the ungrateful child!” the man said. I just stared at him until my Mother came into the living room. “Why don’t you say hello to your uncle?” my mother said. “My Uncle?” I replied. So I said hello and walked to my room. I lay down on my bed and picked up my ball and tossed it up to the ceiling and catching it when it’s going down. I kept repeating it for 5 minutes. I got up from my bed and looked outside. I was pretty much bored since all my friends are in an after school program. I didn’t want to do that because I think it’s a waste of time. I decided that I’ll go outside and take a walk. I got out of the house and then walked to Foss Park. When I got there. There weren’t anybody around. So I kept walking toward the highway. I took a right and went straight to the bridge and I didn’t really know where I’m heading but my body is like moving out of its own. I somehow mange to arrived at the bridge and went under. I notice a guy leaning against the wall. Then I notice it was the same guy who I’ve seen 2 days ago. I quickly turn around and walk the other way but. “Wait! Hold on a minute!” the man said. I turn my head and looked at him. He was next to me. (Whoa! He’s fast.) I have a problem! If the guy is going to attack me then I will be no match for him. I don’t know how to fight. “Your Elias right?” the man said. “Yeah! But how did you know my name?” I replied. “I overheard one of the kids mentioned your name on the school playground.” the man said. “Oh? So? What do you want with me?” I replied.
I started to walk down to the middle of the bridge. “I notice that you’re lonely!” the man said. “Lonely?” I replied. “Yes I was watching you at school during recesses and you always sitting by yourself. ” the man said. I looked down and then looked at him again. “Let me introduce myself! My name is Alex Silvanna” Alex said. “My name is Elias Martinez but my friends call me Danny.” I replied. There was silence for 10 seconds. “I can see right through you! You’re deeply sad and depressed! And by the looks at it you feel abandoned.” Alex said. Amazing! He got that exactly right. I was speechless for couple of minute. “You have potential of becoming a greater person then some lowlife that work for only money. So tell me? What do you want to do when you grow up? ” Alex said. Actually I never even thought of it! What do I want to do when I grow up? I was thinking for couple of seconds and then my answer came instantly. “Become a video game designer!” I replied. Alex closed his eyes and starting to walk closer to me. “That’s a high goal but I have faith in you and I know you’ll reach that goal.” Alex said. I started to feel happy because of what Alex said even though he’s a stranger. “How about joining my gang?” Alex said. “What! You want me to become a gang member?” I said. “I’ll teach you how to become a better person.” Alex said. I looked down and was thinking that if he is saying is true then my life might be easier. “Wait! What do you mean? Become a better person?” I said. “You’ll learn how to observe other people, what to do when you’re in danger, and also how to fight and dodge and read people weakness.” Alex replied. “Okay! I’ll join!” I said. Alex walk away and said to meet him here tomorrow at 3:00 P.M.

Chapter 4) The Training

The next day! I woke up at 10 am and took a shower. After that I went to my room and started to play video game until 2:30. I got up and then headed out to the same place where I have to meet Alex. When I got there, there were 3 people with Alex. There were 2 girls and 1 boy but there was a girl that I sort of knew. It was the girl with the purple bandana. “You’re a bit early! You have effort. Keep it up!” Alex said. “Hey you’re that same boy that I bump into the other day?” the girl said. “Yeah? I am? Um? Hey?” I replied. “Everyone don’t be rude! Introduce yourself!” Alex said. “My name is Lillia Blossom.” The girl with the purple bandana said. “My name is Rose Hale! Nice to meet you!” the 2nd girl said. “Yo! My name is Ralph Koretawa!” The other boy said. “Um? Koretawa?” I replied. “Yeah! I’m Japanese! I know it sounds weird but you’ll get use to it.” Ralph said. “Okay! Follow me Elias!” Alex said. So I followed him to assembly square mall. Well actually was the mall! Now it just an abandoned building! “Hey? Why are we here?” I said. “This place if perfect for your training!” Alex said. “What! Training?” I replied. For 10 seconds, I stared at Alex and then look away. When I looked back, He was gone. Then I look up, he was in mid-air and then he started to strike with his hands but I managed to dodge it. When I dodge it, Alex was already behind me and kicked me! He kicked me so hard that I flew 10 feet from him.
I landed on my back then rolled. When I opened my eyes, His feet’s were next to my face. “You’re good but not good enough! You definitely need training if you want to be stronger.” Alex said. “Wow Elias! You’re good at dodging the first strike.” Lillia said. I got up and looked at Alex! “I’m ready!” I said. “WHAT! Didn’t that blow hurt like hell?” Ralph replied! “Yeah it did but that is not gonna stop me! Come on Alex! Train me!” I said. Alex Smile and looked at the others! “Okay! Elias! Let’s train! Everybody stand back! I’m going to teach you how to dodge fast! Elias!” Alex said. “Okay! Don’t hold back!” I said! We fought for hours and the end of the day! I was all beaten up! My body hurt and I can't barely move my finger but I was smiling! The other’s looked at me and was in shocked! “Doesn’t that hurt? Why are you not crying after all that beating?” Rose said! “Crying? I know it hurts but I had worse.” I said! “Wow! You’re tougher than Ralph! I mean he cried on the first day of training!” Rose said! “Shut up! Woman! I didn’t cry! I. I. I had something in my eye! That’s all!” Ralph replied! Both Ralph and Rose were pinching their faces and yelling each other like how siblings would fights. “Hey! Is she your Sister?” I said! Both ran toward me and then yelled “No” and then continuing fighting! “It’s late you guys! should go home!” Alex said.
“But it’s 6:00?” I said. “I know it’s 6 but it’s also dark! You wouldn’t want your parents to worry you?” Alex said. I said yeah and took his advice even though my Mother barely Talk to me. So everybody walked to the bridge of the highway! “Okay! See ya next time Elias!” Alex said. Alex looked away and then looked at me. “Oh? Yeah? I forgot! We didn’t give you a nickname!” Alex said! Everyone stop walking and ran toward me! “That’s right! I totally forgot all about that!” Lillia said. “Hmm? What should we call you?” Ralph said. “Blackheart!” Alex said. “Um Black Heart? Why’s that?” I replied. “Because of you necklace there! That necklace you’re wearing is a heart colored in black. And I think that sounds right for you!” Alex said! “Wait? So everyone here has a nickname?” I replied. “Yes! Ralph is Eclipse, Rose is Black Rose, Lillia is Black Bunny, and I’m Oblivion!” Alex said. “Wow? Then I guess I’m Black Heart!” I replied. Then we started to walk. Alex, Ralph, and Rose, took a left and headed to East Somerville. Lillia and I took a right and headed to the Mistic Project. “So? You had worse?” Lillia said. “What?” I replied. “Earlier you said you had worse.” Lillia said. “Oh? Yeah! Um?” I replied. I stoop silence for couple of seconds. And Lillia was staring at me! “Is it that bad?” Lillia said. I looked at her but somehow her smile made me feel warm. She’s the only girl that made me feel relax and I think telling about my life might probably make me feel good. “Yeah! My parents and I don’t really get along! Because they see me as ungrateful child because of what I like!” I said. “What do you mean? You mean your personality?” Lillia said. “Um? Yeah? You can say that!” I said. “I would love to hear your stories!” Lillia said. As she said that I looked at her and her head is facing down. I was hot, thirsty and a bit hungry. “Hey wanna get some ice cream? I’m buying?” I said. Lillia looked up and said yeah with a smile. Lucky for us there was an ice cream stored across the street called Louis. The ice cream was cheap they were a buck. I bought 2 vanilla ice creams, 2 sodas, and a snicker. All of that for 5 dollars! “Hey I know a place where we can relax.” Lillia said. We went to Foss Park and we sat near the entrance of the Foss park pool. We started eating our ice creams and drinking our soda. For some reason my heart feel like it was going to fly out. My hands started to sweat. “You know not many boys would ever treat me like this!” Lillia said. “Huh? What?” I replied. “Most boys treat me as girl with cuties and stuff.” Lillia said. Come to think of it. I never actually say anything like that to a girl before. I never even treated a girl bad. “Some boys are immature” Lillia said. “Oh? And you’re mature? Don’t make me laugh!” I replied. “Of course I am! I have manners and I’m Sophisticated.” Lillia said. “Sophi-what?” I replied. “It means that I’m different person and I like different stuff,” Lillia said. “Uh? I’m not that smart but I think you meant unique.” I said. Lillia paused and looked at me and we both laugh.
“Alex and Ralph are the only boys that I know that never called me names. And now I met you. You’re pretty nice too!” Lillia said. We were silence for a moment. “Ever since I was little! My parents always punish me for stuff that I didn’t even do. Like if my two little brothers breaks a glass cup. My parent’s blames it on me. And when I tell them that It wasn’t me! They would think that I’m lying and then hit me for it.” I said. “One time I went to get a cup of water and then turn of the fosse. Then my brother came and got cup of water too but forgot to turn it off. Then my parents came in and saw that water is running. My father said: “who left the water running!” My brothers say that I did it. And my father grabs me and took me to his room and hit me. Then he asks why I did it. At that time all I could do is say nothing and apologize. If I told him that I didn’t do it. He wouldn’t believe me! I said. “That is so sad! Why are your parents like that?” Lillia said. “I don’t know! I over heard one of my family members last November that the reason why they do that is because I’m the evil child. When I was given birth, doctors thought I was dead because I didn’t cry at birth. But I was just sleeping and had a grin on my face. So they say.” I said. Lillia looked at me with an odd expression. “Tell me more?” Lillia said. “What! You want more? Well I got 1 more story. One day I told my parents that I’ve seen a person flying outside and that person was glowing and then disappear. When I told them what I saw. They punish me by sending to my room. The next day I told my teacher about that! She said that I might have seen a ghost.” I said. That same day I looked ghost on the Internet and research about. I like it and I want to learn more. “Actually Alex can tell you more about ghost and supernatural phenomenon!” Lillia said. “What? He can?” I replied. “Yeah Alex thought us about them and we actually went to a place where you can sense them.” Lillia said. “How can you sense them?” I replied. “Well I know if you stand an area for while and then move couple of feet’s and if you lucky enough you might feel a chill! And that chill might tell you that a ghost is presence.” Lillia said. I was amazed of what I’ve heard. When I looked at my watch, it was 7:30! We both said our goodbyes and went home.

Chapter 5) Thanksgiving

It’s Friday and it’s a couple of days to Thanksgiving. I was still training and during the past couple of days, Alex been teaching me other’s things, like learning about supernatural, teaching me how to behave, and teamwork. Just the other day, Alex made us to stand on a rug and told us to flip the rug over without stepping outside of the rug. The first 3 tries were a failure but on the 4th tries we actually did it. “Does anybody have plans on thanksgiving?” Alex said. Everybody looked at each other said not really. Alex is planning a thanksgiving feast at his house and all of us are invited. “I don’t know about me! I might spent Thanksgiving with my family.” I said. “Well then Black Heart, if you somehow managed to stop by, here is my address.” Alex said. Alex gave me a piece of paper with his address on it. Alex told us to go home and rest up for Tuesday. As usual Alex, Ralph and Rose went their way to go home and Lillia and I went our way to go home. “You’ve been quiet today. What’s wrong?” Lillia said. “Um? Nothing really! It just I don’t know that I’m gonna survive my Thanksgiving!” I said. “Problem with your family?” Lillia said. Lillia stop and paused for a couple of seconds. “If you have problem with your family and you somehow get into a fight! Please don’t let your angered take over you!” Lillia said. “What? Angered? I don’t think I ever went crazy before? Well I don’t think so!” I replied. Sometimes when I’m around with Lillia. She makes me feel calm and makes my trouble’s go away for hours. Her smile is the only thing that is keeping me from going insane. “Lil? Thanks for worrying about me!” I said. “Lil? Did you just call me Lil? Actually that sounds kind of cool.” Lillia said. I paused and looked at her then she smile back and said that nickname that I gave her was the cutest name. I didn’t know what to do? Should I keep saying it or just forget it and go home? “Let’s go home! It’s getting cold now.” Lillia said. When we started walking, Lillia trip and luckily I caught her but for some reason my heart starting to pound really hard. Lillia started to stutter when she speak. “I. I’m, I’m, I’m so, so, sorry!” Lillia replied. “Wow! Your hands are so? Ahem let’s go huh? I said. Lillia hands were soft and smooth. It feels like I can break it easily. I walked to her house. Luckily she lives a couple blocks away from me. I said goodbye and went home. When I got home I felt tired and went to bed early.
It’s Tuesday and my Mother is running around like crazy because my Uncle is coming over. He’s like the leader or something! So we have to make him feel like a King. My Mother bought so many foods from the store and then started to prepare them until he comes. At first I thought she was nuts but when I look at the Calendar it was Thanksgiving! Shoot! Alex is having a Thanksgiving Feast at his place! When I’m about to put my shoe on. The door knock! My Mother opened the door and it was my Uncle. My Uncle is the one who help my mother whenever she’s in debt and he’ll do anything for my mom because he’s is the oldest in my mother side of the family. “You’re early! I’m sorry big brother! I didn’t start cooking yet!” My mom said. “No. That’s all right! I want to spent time with my nephews. Take your time.” My Uncle said. “Okay! It’s your funeral!” My mother said. “Oh? Your boys can’t take me on!” My Uncle said. My 2 little brothers came to the living room. When they saw my uncle they both ran and jumped on him. “Uncle!” my brothers yelled. “Look! It’s my warriors!” My uncle said. My brothers get along with my uncle but not me. I personally don’t talk to him. They both started to wrestle and my Uncle pretended that he was weak and making bone-crunching sounds with his mouth. “Oh No! You broke my arm.” My Uncle said. I just stared at him and soon after he started at me and then I walk to my room. I started to draw! I just drew couple of Bomber man Characters. Bomber Man is game that you set trap with bombs and trying to destroy other bomber man. There are little dudes wearing metal outfits with different colors. I’m obsesses with that game and when I play it, I loses track of time. But right now I don’t feel like playing that game. It’s 5:00 p.m. and my Mother finished cooking. My mother yelled dinnertime. Everyone went to the table and sat down. My uncle is sitting across from me and my Mother is sitting my right side of the table. “Well? Let say grace.” My Mom said. “I’ll do it!” My Uncle said. “Dear god! Thank you for the food. Thank you for this wonderful family!” My Uncle said. I know he’s going to try to attack with his words at me. In other word Insult me“ But some of us don’t deserved your greatness and your kindness. Especially when that person is ungrateful!” My Uncle said. I know he’s talking about me. I’m not going to fight back. “Those who are ungrateful shouldn’t be eating this delicious food that it is in front of me!” My Uncle said. I just closed my eyes and took a deep breath. I looked at my Uncle again and got up! “You’re right! Those who are ungrateful shouldn’t be eating this delicious food! I’m not really hungry I ate before you came here Uncle. I’m heading out!” I said. I got my sweater and head out.
I was lying that I ate. When I put my hands on my sweater pockets. I found a piece of paper. It was Alex address. “Let see? He lives um? Damn! Where the hell is this place!” I yelled. So I headed to east Somerville and I walked around the area. Hoping to find this address. It’s taking me half an hour to find this address. When I came across a sign, it was the same sign that was in the paper. Finally I found it. “Wow! He lives a place like this! He must be rich!” I said quietly. I was so nervous and I can hear noises coming from his house. I knock at the door and couple of minutes past by. When I looked at the right there was a doorbell. I rang it. The door is opening. It was Lillia! “You’re here! That’s great!” Lillia yelled. She gave me a hug and grabs my hand. “Look guys! Black Heart is here!” Lillia said. “Alright! Man I didn’t think you’re gonna come!” Ralph said. I looked at Alex and he was pointing to a seat. “I’ve been expecting you.” Alex said. “What you thought I was gonna come!” I said. “Of course! You’re always fighting with your family.” Alex replied. “I guess Lillia told you.” I said. “Yup!” Alex said Cheerfully. I looked around and it was only the people that I know! “Where are your parents?” I said. “I don’t live with my parents! I live alone.” Alex replied. “What! You do! Wow! It must be cool living by yourself.” I said. “Not really! They’re time when I’m lonely.” Alex said Alex smile and told everyone to come to the table. “Listen guys! I got a thanksgiving story.” Alex said. “Wow! We’re hearing a story! We’re hearing a story! I love your stories! They’re funny!” Lillia said Cheerfully. “Okay! Let’s see? How should I start off?” Alex said. Alex was thinking for couple of minutes and he was looking at Ralph and Rose. “I got it! I’m going to use all of you! Especially Rose and Ralph!” Both Ralph and Rose yelled what!
Here’s the story: It’s Thanksgiving and Rose was cooking for 2 days. She invites her friends and family to come over. Both have a boy and a girl. “Could you pick up my brother at the Airport?” Rose said. “Okay!” Ralph said. While Ralph is picking up her brother at the airport, Rose was preparing the food on the table. An hour later Ralph came back and also everybody came as soon Ralph entered the door. They all said hello and Ralph turned on the T.V and starting to watch a football game. Even though nobody care about the score or the game. They just want to watch it because all of them are bored. Rose is standing beside the table. The kids got bored from watching the game and they were hungry. So they went to the table and ate for 5 minutes. After they done eating the boy went on the computer and the girl is texting her friends. 10 minutes later everybody got up and went to the table. They started to eat but everybody went for stuff they like. No one touched the turkey. 10 minutes later 1 person said: “I’m full!” he only ate rice and mashed potatoes. Then everybody got full but the turkey was still untouched. Then everybody went back to the T.V. and Ralph stand next to Rose. “Today was great huh? I did good.” Ralph said. “Honey! To tell you the truth! YOU DONE NOTHING!” Rose yelled. “WHAT?” Ralph yelled back. “Thanksgiving was a disaster. I worked so hard on it too.” Rose said. Now Ralph is freaking out! “KIDS COME HERE!” Ralph yelled. The kids come running. “GO HELP YOUR MOTHER CLEANED UP!” Ralph yelled. “Whatever?” the girl said. “WHATEVER! THAT’S IT CHRISTMAS IS RUINED THANKS TO YOUR ATTIDUTE!” Ralph yelled. Now Rose is starting to cry! “OH NOW LOOKED WHAT YOU DONE! YOU MADE YOUR MOM CRY!” Ralph yelled. Everybody who’s watching the game missed the whole drama behind them. Elias got up and walks to them and said: “Got anymore pie?” After hearing that story everybody started to laugh! “Okay time to eat!” Alex said. “What you guys haven’t eaten yet?” I said. “NO? Alex was told us to wait for you and if you don’t come we gonna start without you.” Ralph said. “Well you’re here and I’m starved!” Rose said. Alex went to the kitchen and told us to come. When everybody got there. There was a lot of food. “Bring all of these food to the table.” Alex said. So we did and after setting the food the table. Alex said grace and we all started eating. The food was delicious. After we done eating Alex asked me a question. “Where are your parents from?” Alex said. “My parents are from El Salvador.” I replied. “Wow! You’re Salvadorian too!” Lillia said. “Too?” I replied. “Yeah! Everyone here is Salvadorian too!” Lillia said. “Except Ralph he’s half Salvadorian and half Japanese.” Rose said. When I looked at the time it was already 8:00 P.M. “I guess I’ll go home! It’s getting late.” I said. “Yeah me too! My mom will worry me!” Lillia said. I grab my sweater and left. “Be careful you two!” Alex said. When I step outside Lillia looked at the moon. “It’s a red moon!” Lillia said. “Huh? Oh? Yeah you’re right!” I replied. “Have you seen a red moon before?” Lillia said. “Well? This is my second time that I’ve seen it! Why?” I said. “I’ve seen white, yellow, and blue! This is my first time that it turned red.” Lillia said. “Oh? Well? You’re not the only one! I haven’t seen a blue moon yet! Maybe there’s a pink moon!” I replied. Lillia started laughing! “Yeah! Or maybe a green one!” Lillia said while laughing. When we got to Broadway, the streets were empty! Usually this street is always packed but since it’s Thanksgiving everybody is enjoying Thanksgiving at home! “Wow! There are no cars around! Even all the stores are closed too! It’s kind of scary!” Lillia said. “Yeah and is dark too!” I replied. Lillia started to put her arm around my arm. “What? The?” I said. “Can you walk me home? I’m scared.” Lillia said. My heart started to pound really hard and I was nervous. “Su. Sure! Let’s hurry! I don’t like the look of this place.” I said. We ran through Foss Park and in 20 minutes later I was in front of her house. “Thank you! You’re a good friend.” Lillia said. “Ah! No problem! Isn’t that what friends are for? Helping each other?” I replied. “Ye. Yeah! See you later then!” Lillia said. We stared at each other for a moment and then she smile and went inside while waving. I left and went home. When I got to the entrance of my apartment, I heard people laughing, cheering, and the music was loud. The next-door neighbor opens the door and saw me. “Don’t you think the music is a little too loud?” the neighbor said. “Sorry! For making a lot of noise.” I replied. Then I looked at the neighbor and it was a lady. Then the lady gave me a weird look. “Why are you out here young fellow?” the Neighbor said. “Um? Well? I just came back from a friend place!” I said. “By yourself? There are dangerous people out there!” She said. “I know ma’am but don’t worry about me! I can protect myself.” I said. “You’ve got good manners for a young age.” She said. I looked at her and I was confused. “What do you mean?” I replied. “Well boys you’re age would be rude, selfish, messy, and immature.” She said. When I heard that, I remember that Alex taught me to behave and talk polite to people. Maybe the training he gave me was worth it. “Is that bad?” I said. “Not really but that’s is part of growing up! Boys you’re age are rare.” She said. “Oh? Okay! Thanks you!” I said.
Then the lady smiled and went back inside to her apartment. I turned around and opened the door. When I opened the door, everybody stopped what they’re were doing. “Look it’s the ungrateful child!” Someone said. I wish people would stop calling me that! I don’t know how that started that in the first place but whatever I’ll just have to accept it. There where silence for a couple of minutes and then I saw a football coming toward me. I dodge it by moving my body an inch but there was a 2nd football and I didn’t dodge because the place was crowded. The football hit my face and I was bleeding on my lips. I saw the person who did it and smiled. “Is that all you got? I guess you’re afraid to punch me! So! You throw a toy at me! How stupid!” I said. Everybody was making fun of the person who throws me the football. They were saying things like: “Oh! You got dissed by an 11 year old.” And “who’s the tough guy know!” I saw the guy got mad and rush to me and I ran outside so I don’t have to fight inside or better yet break anything! When I got outside I turned around a rock was flying toward me and dodge it. It’s a good thing that Alex trained me to fight. I rolled to the ground and got up and started to run toward the guy and kicked the guy. The guy fell down and got up and attacks me again. This guy is swinging his arm around like crazy person! So clearly he doesn’t know how to fight! I kept dodging his attacks and making him trip. I was having fun. Finally the guy got tired and stopped. “Is that all you got? Man your weak! Fine I’ll just leave! Your boring.” I said. My uncle came up to me and gave me a look. I smiled and went back inside then went to bed because I was tired.



Chapter 6) The Gifts and Christmas

It’s the first week of December and everybody in Somerville is setting up Christmas decorations. I was in my room and thinking about giving present to my members. Come to think of it! I don’t even know what’s the name of our gang! I just have to ask Alex when I see him later today. I realize that I was alone at my place and I wonder where my mother and brothers went. I was lying on my bed and staring at the ceiling and thinking how would I buy a gift for my friends. Then I remember I have a little bank hiding in my closet. I went inside and started to look for it. The hiding place is under the floor and it was a perfect place to hide it because my mother comes in my room and check if I have any inappropriate stuff. Which I don’t and where would I get it? When we first moved here I looked at this room and then I check the closet but obviously it was empty. When I was unpacking and starting to put stuff in my closet. I drop one of my rollerblade on the floor. Then there was a crack on the floor and I lift it up and there was a hole. It’s a size of a CD. Ever since I discovered that I didn’t tell anyone and so I decided it would be a perfect place to store my saved up money. When I finish taking out my stuff out of the closet I reached in and took out a can. It was a little rust and I took out the money that was inside of it. I counted the money and so far I’ve saved up $40. I put everything back and I was happy. Later that day I went to our hang out and everybody was there. When I was getting closer Lillia jump out and got on my back. “Hey! Blackheart! Guess what! Guess what! We’re going on a trip!” Lillia said cheerfully. “A trip? Where are we going?” I replied. “We’re going shopping! And you will need money if you want to go!” Alex said. “Okay! Then I’ll get my money! I’ll be right back!” I said. “Wait! I got a better idea. Why don’t you meet us at the galleria mall?” Alex said. “Okay? Sure! Then I’ll meet you there!” I replied. Right before I ran back to my house Lillia shouted! “Wait! Why don’t I go with you? That way you won’t be lonely!” Lillia said. Everybody was shocked when she said that especially Ralph and Rose. Alex smiled and said okay! “Alright but don’t take too long!” Alex said. “What do you mean by that!” Ralph said. Alex didn’t say anything back and starting walking away! Rose and Ralph followed him as well. Couple of minutes pass by and I was heading to house! Alex turned around and shouted: “Make sure you use protection Blackheart! You dog!” I threw of balance and landed on my face and Lillia covered her face with her hand so she won’t let me see her blush. “Why would you say that to a kid! You Pervert!” I shouted. All three of them ran away!
I got up and starting to walk to my place. “Wow? I didn’t know you live in the projects!” Lillia said. “Yeah! Why did that surprises you?” I replied. “Well most people who live here are mostly bad people.” Lillia said. “You’re right! They’re a lot of people here that are bad! Mostly this part of town is filled with gangs!” I said. “Have you been attacked by them?” Lillia said. “Well once? But I suck at fighting though.” I said. Lillia was silence for moment and when we reach to my place Lillia looked around to see if anyone were home. . “Hey? Where are you’re folks?” Lillia said.
“They went out and I don’t know when they’re coming back.” I replied. We went to my room and Lillia sat on my bed. “Wow you’re room is! Is?” Lillia said. “Is what?” I replied. “Is clean!!” Lillia said. “Of courses is clean what do you think!” I said. “Well most boys rooms are always messy!” Lillia said. I was silence for a while until Lillia found my stuffed bunny. “Oh! How cute! You have a bunny! I bet you sleep with it!” Lillia said. “What! No way!” I shouted. “Ooh! What’s that Mr. Bunny! You think he’s lying!” Lillia said. I tried to take it away from her but I somehow manage to get on top of her. After couple of seconds Lillia moved her hand and touch my cheek. “Please! Be gentle!” Lillia said. I got off of her and she immediately starting laughing! “Boy! You should have seen you’re face! It was hilarious.” Lillia said. “Don’t! Don’t joke around like that!” I said. I tuned around got my money from my closet. “Okay! I got my money! Let’s go!” I said. Lillia got up and looked at closet and she found my rollerblade. “Wow! You skate! Cool!” Lillia said. “Yeah! Why?” I replied. “I can probably toast you on a race!” Lillia said. “Oh? You think you can beat me?” I replied. “Yeah! Totally! When springs come! Let’s race around the Mistic River.” Lillia said. “Fine! And the winner um?” I replied. “We’ll worry about that later!” Lillia said. We both laugh and headed to the Gall. It probably takes 30 – 40 minutes walk. When we got there, Alex and the others were waiting for us at Lechmere Station. “What took ya so long”? Rose said. “Oh! No! Both are smiling! They both actually did it!” Ralph said. “Shut up! No we did not! Get that stupid thoughts out of your minds!” I said. “Then! If you didn’t do it! Then you must’ve Kiss!” Ralph continued. “What!” I shout. “Of course we did!” Lillia said. Lillia ran toward me and wrapped her arm around my arm and looked at me then wink. So I’ve played along as well. Everybody was shocked even Alex gave me a weird funny look. “Yeah! That’s right!” I said. Lillia giggle and put her head on my arm, like a couple would do. I like the idea but I don’t know how long were going to last. “Okay! You love birds! Let’s go!” Alex said. When we enter the Mall, I couldn’t think what to buy. “Alright! Everyone! We should all go on our separate ways and we’ll meet at the food court. Got it?” Alex said. “We got it! Now Lillia come with me!” Rose said. Rose grab Lillia arm and took of. So Ralph and I went to the second floor. Alex turned around and went inside a clothes shop. “So? Tell me? Do you really like Lillia?” Ralph said. I stopped and looked at Ralph. “Um? Well?” I replied. “Man you’re so lucky! You got the cutest girl in our group!” Ralph said. “What? You don’t think Rose is cute?” I said. “What! That Witch? No! Who would want her? I mean when she’s get mad she turned into a demon! Why? Do you think she’s cute?” Ralph said. “What? Well? Yeah?” I said. “Are you insane! What’s wrong with you!” Ralph shouted. “Well? You guys make a perfect couple!” I said. “You’re just asking to get hurt!” Ralph said. I laugh and I looked the other way then I saw Lillia and Rose from a distance. When I looked at Rose, she does look cute but I don’t think Ralph doesn’t see her as girl. When I thought that, I had figure something out. “Hey! Ralph! How long did you know Rose?” I said. Ralph gave me a weird look and turned his head down. “Since I was 5 years old.” Ralph replied. “That long? Wow!” I said. “Why are you so happy all of the sudden?” Ralph said. “I know why you say mean things to Rose! Is because you don’t see her as a girl, just a friend.” I said. Ralph gave me a weird look and turned around then he change the subject. “We need to buy a gift!” Ralph said.
We started to walk to a toy store and when we enter the place was packed. “Man! We’ll be here forever.” Ralph said. “Yeah! I know! Well at least I know what I’m going to get.” I said. Ralph gave me a frown and went to the isle and I did the same. I went around the store and couldn’t find what I’m looking for but just before I was going to give up I found a stuff bunny with a necklace! The Necklace looks cool because it was a black and white bunny that did a Ying and Yang symbol except the long ears was sticking out. So it wasn’t a perfect circle. It was $7.00 and I waited for 20 minutes to buy it. The cool part is that the employee would wrap my gift for free. I was pretty Happy and can’t wait to give it to Lillia. Ralph bought a teddy Bear that said hug me. “Is that for Rose?” I said. “Sh. Shut up! This is. Is. Is. For me! Yeah that’s right! It’s for me!” Ralph said. “Wuss” I said. “What? What’d you said?” Ralph replied. “You’re a wuss!” I said. “WHAT! I’m a wuss!” Ralph shouted. When he shouted, the people that were walking by us stopped and looked at us. “Don’t yell. People are looking at us.” I said. “You started it!” Ralph said. When we were about to start walking a hand touched my shoulder. I turned around and it was Alex. “There you guys are!” Alex said. “Hey! You found us!” I said. “Let’s go to the food court? Rose and Lillia are there!” Alex said. We all went to the food court and Lillia is waving her arms to us. I smile and sat next to her. Then Alex told us to get any food and the cool part that he’s buying. Everybody was having a hard time deciding what to eat. Alex points to Panda Express a Chinese food store. All of us got Chinese food and got the same thing that everybody ordered. “Wow! Thanks Alex! You’re so nice.” Lillia said. Alex smiled and started eating. After we done eating, we went home and on the way home I notice Alex was carrying so many bags. I turned to Lillia and whisper. “Wow? He bought a lot!” I whispered. Lillia giggled and said yeah. I looked behind, Ralph and Rose was walking side by side. I gave them thumbs up. Lillia saw what I did and she did the same. “WHAT”S WRONG WITH YOU!” Ralph Shouted “Uh-Oh! He’s mad!” I said. “Run away!” Lillia said while laughing. Rose finally got the message and both Ralph and Rose started to chase us. We ran and passing Alex and he started to run with us. “Why are you running?” Alex said. I was surprise that he can ran that fast even careering with all that bags. “Huh? We. We were making fun of Rose and Ralph. Now they’re mad and they’re chasing us.” I said. “Listen! I’ll see you guys later! I got stuff to do. Bye.” Alex said. Alex ran with us until we made it to McGrath Highway and he took a different direction. Lillia and I were still running and when we made it to East Somerville School. I notice that Ralph and Rose were no longer chasing us. “I think we lost them!” Lillia said. Lillia smiled and then she went to the swings and sat down. “Yeah and I can’t believe that we ran all the way from the Galleria mall.” I said. “Yeah! I’m still surprised that you kept up with me!” Lillia said. “What? I was just thinking the same thing. I was surprise that you ran that fast and you look like your not tired.” I replied. “Well? You shouldn’t underestimate me! I’m not an ordinary girl.” Lillia said. “Yeah! No kid. You’re a tomboy.” I replied. “I’m not a tomboy. Tomboys don’t wear pink shirts with flowers. They look like a boys.” Lillia said. I looked at her for a moment and I realized that she was wearing just a normal girl clothes. “Wow? You’re like a ninja! You hide your true personality.” I said. “Wow! You got good observation! No one could guess that quick except Alex who saw me for the first time and said that!” Lillia said. Come to think of it, I don’t know how she became one of Alex gang members and I still don’t know what’s the name of our gang. “Say! I’ve been meaning to ask this for a long time now! When did you join Alex Gang and what is the name of this gang.”
Lillia looked at me and then she started laughing. “Hey! Hey! Why are you laughing?” I said. “Wow? I guess you’re kind of slow.” Lillia Replied. “Jeez thanks?” I said. “Well? Our gang is called the Resistance but we’re more like a team than a gang. We don’t really get into fights or steal. We just hang and have fun.” Lillia Replied. “Oh? So what made you join his gang then?” I said. “Well? I don’t really know when I met Alex but 2 years ago, I was living with my aunt because my parents kept fighting in the house. My parents always fight and I hate seeing that. So that’s why my aunt let me live with her until my parents settled. While I was at my aunt’s, my aunt invited one of her friend and her friend brought her son. It turns out to be Alex. So we started talking and somehow Alex changes the subject and then started talking about gangs. Alex told me that he’s a gang member and wanted me to join. So without thinking I said yes and then I joined in his gang but when I joined there were other people, which you never met. . There were 2 boys and 2 girls. Rose and Ralph joined his gang a year later. So it was a total of 8 gang members but the funny part we never get into fights or get into trouble. Alex and one of his best friends trained us for fun but one day the 4 other members went against Alex because he was to soft and never did any orders to rob or fight. All 4 fought him but Alex only took down 2 members. Rose, Ralph, and I were to scare to help. After 4 other member stop fighting they left and it was the last time I saw them. I was crying and Alex told me not to worry with a smile. So ever since that day I was training hard to become a better fighter but it didn’t really worked out. I was goofing off except Ralph who was really training hard and getting stronger. Ralph once told me that he will protect me and Rose from any harm.” Lillia said. “Wow?” I replied. I had no idea that they were like that at a young age. “Well I need to get going! I got chores to do at home.” Lillia said. “Alright then. I’ll see you later!” I replied. “Wait! Aren’t you going the same way?” Lillia said. “Oh? Yeah? I forgot.” I replied. So we both walked home together and said are goodbyes. When I got home I went straight to bed and fell asleep.
It’s Christmas Eve and I was excited because I can’t wait to give her my Christmas Present. I went outside with my gift and headed to Alex House because he’s throwing a Christmas party. When I got there Lillia was standing at Alex front door. “Yo! What’s wrong?” I said. Lillia jump and trip. “Huh? What the?” I said. “Oh! Hi Blackheart! You scared me.” Lillia replied. Wow? I didn’t know that my face was that scary. “Let’s go in?” I said. Lillia got up and opened the door. “Hi people!” Lillia Shout. When enter Alex, Ralph, and Rose was watching a movie. “Hey! Take a seat you two! And watch the movie! We’re watching a scary movie.” Alex said. “Doesn’t that ruin the mood though?” I said. Then for some reason I felt a strange chill. When I turn my head, Lillia look like she was mad. “This is the third time you watch that crappy movie! ON CHRISTMAS EVE!” Lillia said. All four of us looked a Lillia and then Ralph and Rose hide behind Alex. “I think the joke is gone far enough! Lets watch the movie we were actually gonna watch. Huh?” Ralph said. “Are nuts! This is fun!” Alex said. You’ve got to be kidding me! This is fun? Lillia looks like she going to kill Alex. While Lillia walking slowly toward Alex. I looked around and found Home Alone. “Hey let’s watch this?” I said. Lillia at me and she suddenly change her mood. “Yeah! Let’s watch that.” Lillia said. “Aww! Blackheart! You ruined my fun.” Alex said. “How’s that fun? Lillia looks like she going to kill you!” I replied. A couple second pass by. “Yeah! So?” Alex said while smiling. You’ve got to be kidding me! Does he really want to get killed by her? Is a he nut?
After we watch the movie Alex brought a couple of bags and then put on front of us. “Well it’s 7:00 P.M. and it’s time to give out your Presents. Blackheart why don’t you go first?” Alex said. I gave Lillia my gift and then gave three smaller gift to the rest. Ralph did the same and so did Rose. We all looked at Lillia and she was staring down. “What’s wrong Lillia you didn’t buy any gift?” Alex said. No it’s not that! Well? I only bought one.” Everybody was laughing and then pointed at me. “Is it for Blackheart?” all three said. Lillia looked at me and then walked slowly toward me and she gave me her gift. I was surprise that she gave me a gift. I never thought that she’ll buy one for me. “Th. Thanks!” I said. Lillia looked the other way. “You’re welcome.” Lillia said. “Lillia and Elias sitting on tree K-i-s-s-i-n-g.” Ralph said. “How childish!” Rose replied. “What? But you were making fun of them.” Ralph shouted. “Yeah! But if you kept teasing! It gets pretty boring and a bit childish.” Alex said. Ralph said whatever and turned around and started eating. “Okay my turn!” Alex said. Alex gave us a big present and it was kind of heavy. “Now! Remember! Don’t open it until midnight.” Alex said. After all that we all headed home. Just as Alex said I waited until midnight to open my presents. First I opened Lillia gift and it was necklace. It was the shape of the number 7 but it looked more like a cross except the top was slanted. I like it and the cool part is that it’s the number of my day of birth. Then I opened Alex gift. It was a trench coat but not an ordinary one. It’s black and the middle of the coat look Silver. Why did Alex bought me this? Then I realize that other has the same gift and I think they have the same coat. Well then the only way to find out if I see them tomorrow.

Chapter 7) New Year's and New Hang Out!

It's New year's eve and my mother want the family to go to one of our family member places to see the ball drop on TV. We do that every year and my mother already decided which family member's we're going to stay. when we arrived at the place, I looked around and it was my friend place and his name is Nelson. "Wait? Nelson isn't our family member" I said. "Nelson is your cousin. from your father side" My Mother said. "What? From my Father? Side!" I said. I knew Nelson since pre school and I never knew about it. It's 11:00 p.m. and I just realize that I'm not that far from Alex places, so I sneaked out and headed to his place. When I got there, Alex was standing at the front of his place. "Hey?...Alex." I said. "Isn't wonderful today?" Alex replied. "wha..? it's cold." I said. Alex chuckled and then looked at me for a while. "Well? It's gonna be a New year. So that means a New Year, a New Chapter." Alex said. I kept staring at him then I figured out what he's trying to say. "Oh! You mean something is changing? right?" I replied. "Hmm?...Well? you got it. When the new year arrives, we're gonna have a new hang out." Alex said. "New hang out?" I replied. "That's right! Think you can sneak out from your place at 3 a.m? Blackheart?" Alex said. "Yeah of course I can! I've done it before." I replied. "Well then? Meet me at the usual spot." Alex said. I turned around and said yeah. Then I headed back at my cousin's place.

Its 5 minutes before the New Year and my family is having fun. I told Nelson that we're related and he said he already know but I know he was lying because when I told him that we're related, his eyes opened so wide. 10 seconds left till' the new year and I'm watching the countdown on TV. "5, 4, 3, 2, 1, HAPPY NEW YEAR". Everyone said. It's finally a new year and everybody is jumping around and dancing. As for me, well I didn't care about New Year's because it's just a number. It's been an hour later since the New year and my mother decided to go back home. We said our goodbye's and headed home. I looked at the clock and in two hours I need to sneak out of my place but the problem is that how am I going to stay up until 3? So I have the only solution is to play video games until 3 and I did. My mother is sound asleep and my brother's are snoring pretty loud. I quietly headed to the door and opened quietly. I finally got outside and started to head to the usual hangout. When I arrived at the place, I saw the other's and I didn't know they were gonna be at the hangout. "Oh? I didn't know you were gonna come?" Rose said. "WOW! You came!" Lillia said. Ralph just stared at me and looked the other way. "OK! The reason why I told you guys to come out so late at night is that we're going to find a new hangout and I know the perfect place." Alex said. Ralph started to walk toward the abandon Assembly mall and took out a crowbar then he stood the front of the boarded door. "This is our new hangout? why did you guys picked this place?" I said. "Hmm? No? Well? It's inside." Alex replied. "What? Inside? Won't we get in trouble?" I said. "Well? As long no one tells and Cops barely patrol this area and that makes this place our great hangout." Alex said. Ralph started to stick the crowbar inside the boarded door and opened a little. "I'll make sure the opening is wide enough for everybody" Ralph said. Ralph went inside and started to make room for the entrance while the rest of us were looking out for any patrol cops.When Ralph finally finished his work, I gave him a thumb's up and he gave me a thumb's up in return as well. "Well? To open this borded door. Just Lift up then turn it to the left and then slip into the little space. Once you enter the little space there will be another door and all you guys have to do is pull and move it to the right." Ralph said. After Ralph instruction, All five of us entered the place and it was dark.

Alex took out a flashlight and then he took out four more flashlight. "Here! for everyone. Now! Let's split up and take a look around then after that meet me here in about an hour." Alex said. Lillia grabbed my arm and smiled. "Let's go straight! Come on guys!" Lillia said. Rose and Ralph followed behind us but we walked to an dead end. "hey look! which way should we go? Left or Right?" Lillia said. I realized that there's two hallways. "I'm gonna go right" Ralph said. Ralph started to walk the right hallway on his own. "Hey wait up!" Rose shouted. before Rose followed Ralph, I grabbed her shoulder. "Hey? Rose? Is there something wrong with Ralph?" I said. "Yeah? He's been acting weird. Do you know what's going on?" Lillia replied. "All I can say is that he's in a rivalry battle." Rose said. Lillia and I gave Rose a weird look. "A rivalry battle? Huh? I think I get it." I said. "You do?" Rose replied. I stared at Lillia for a minute then I looked at Rose. Rose got the message and said "I get it!" but Lillia has this funny look on her face. "Hey! What? I don't get it! TELL ME!" Lillia shouted. Rose turned around then she started to run where Ralph is but I grabbed her again. "Wait! Hold on!" I said. "Hey! What the?" Rose replied. I pulled Rose back and put my arm around her. I looked at Lillia then I pushed her to the direction where Ralph headed. "Hey! Don't push me! I'm not an animal!" Lillia shouted. Then Rose and I point to the direction where Ralph headed and said "Go Boy!". "HEY! I"M NOT A DOG!" Lillia shouted. Lillia started to run toward to Ralph direction and then I started to walk the opposite. "Hey! How did you know?" Rose said. "Well? Um? I just had a feeling thats all." I replied. Rose stopped walking and then held my hand then squeezed it. "But? Don't you like Lillia? Aren't you dating her?" Rose said. I turned around and then smile. "Well? we're not really. We were only joking about that." I replied. "Wow?...You and Alex are so a like?" Rose said. I just gave Rose a weird look and then turned around. "Let's go we might find something cool." Couple minutes later and we finally made to the end of the hall. We both looked around and then I suddenly open a door that said "Employee only". I went inside and then what I found was a couch and a TV hanging on the wall. "This looks like a lounge?" Rose said. "Well? it doesn't look like it much now. But if we fix it up & clean it up real good then it would be our perfect hangout." Alex said. Rose & I started to hold each other because Alex came out of nowhere. "Did I scared you?" Alex said. "YES!" Rose & I shouted back. Alex started to laugh & then told us to head back to what it use to be a food court. When three of us arrived, Lillia & Ralph was sitting in an akward position. "WE DIDN'T DO ANYTHING!" Lillia shouted. I looked at Rose & Alex with a weird expression. "Um?...we didn't say anything. What happen between you two?" I said. "Both were together in the dark & then a spark of romance has awaken inside of Ralph & Lillia while Elias & Rose was snooping around the other side of the mall. Lillia might have finally fallen in love with ralph & now they are trying to keep it a secret but Rose & Elias can see right through them. Lillia & Ralph makes the secret so obvious but Rose & Elias also have a secret. Both are secretly a couple." Alex said. "Dammit how did you know?" I played along. Rose played along as well & then she suddenly scream. "Huh? what happen?" I quickly replied. There was something moving in the far side of the food court. Then it started to walk slowly toward me & then the it said meow. "Huh? What the? It's just a cat." I said. I turned around & I saw Rose was hiding behind Ralph. "Let's go home. I'm bored & tired." Ralph said. Ralph slowly pushed Rose away from him & started to walk to the exit. I just stared at Ralph while he's walikng to the exit. "You know! Ralph Attitude is pissing me off!" Rose said. After she said that, a tear suddenly fell down from her cheek but Alex & Lillia didn't even notice it. Then again it was still dark in here & I was the only one who was standing next to her. couple of minutes later, all four of us finally went outside. "Oh boy! look at the time! it's 5:00 AM & the sun is about to rise. You kids shouldn't be out so late." Alex said. "HAHA! very funny!" I said. "Well? Anyway! We need to get some sleep because right now it's my Birthday." Alex said. "What! You were born on January 1st? WOW!" I shouted. "That's incredible Alex!" Lillia said with a cheerfully tone. "Ah shoot! all the store's are closed cuz it's new year's day. Damn!" I said. "Well? that's okay but mind coming to my place at noon?" Alex said. "You bet, we will be there! Even if I have to drag Elias to your place." Lillia replied. "Hey? I'll be there" I replied back.

After all of us went home, I fell asleep and then I felt I was being poked by something soft and warm. I opened my eyes and Lillia was standing in front of my bed. I suddenly scream and got up. "HEY! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?" I shouted. "I came to wake you up and good morning to you too." Lillia replied. "Huh? what? what time is it and how did you got in?" I said. "Your front door was unlock and it's 10 am AND...we got enough time to make a Birthday card for Alex." Lillia said. I told lillia to stay in my room while I take a shower & brush my teeth. I notice that my mother isn't home but my brother's are still sound asleep. When I finished I went back to my room and Lillia made a big Birthday card that is a size as 18X24 size paper. I started to help with Alex Birthday card and draw a cartoon with a birthday cake that says happy Birthday on it. "WOW! You're pretty good. You're drawing is cute. I didn't know you can draw!" Lillia said. "Well? Neither did I...I just drew it." I replied. "Where did you learn how to draw?" Lillia said. At exact moment I remember what got me into art. A classmate in the PowderHouse School got me into drawing. His name is Reynaldo and I talked to him everyday. We talk about the same stuff over and over again, on how Sonic the Hedgehog should fight Bomberman and make a show out of it. an hour & half past by and we finally finished the big Birthday card. "Wow time fly when you're having fun! Right?" Lillia said. "Right!" I replied. In fact I did had a lot of fun making this Birthday card with Lillia. "Shall we go?" Lillia said. After we left my apartment, we both headed to Alex place. When we arrived there, Ralph & Rose was standing in front of Alex door. Lillia said hi and then Ralph had this cold expression on his face. He looked at me with a cold look & then the door opened. "Hi Guys! Happy Birthday.....To Me!" Alex said. Everything thing went silence and all we can hear was the wind blowing. Ralph slowly turned around and said Happy Birthday to alex. I don't know what just happen but for some reason my heart started race & I felt like someone punch my stomach. I suddenly started to walk toward Alex and hand him his Birthday card. "Here you go. Lillia & I made this for you." I said. "How thoughtful you guys." Alex replied. "Yeah! All we need is for everyone to sign it." Lillia said. "ooo! I'll go first" Alex said. "(Giggled) No silly!" Lillia replied. "Well I'm still signing it!" Alex said with a cheerful tone. I stared at Ralph and Ralph was staring out the window. It's 7 P.M. and It's already dark out. "I need to go home guys." Lillia said. "Yeah? It's getting late & it's gonna get even colder later." Rose said. "Lillia." Ralph said unexpectally. When he said that, all four of us just stared at Ralph. "WOW! Little Ralphy first word" Alex said. "Yeah! that's the first word you said all day." Lillia said. Ralph just started at Lillia and then stared at me. "Lillia. Want me to walk you home?" Ralph said. After he said that, Rose, Alex, and I turned our head toward Lillia. "But don't you live like a couple of block's from here?" Lillia replied. "Not anymore. I'm living with my father near temple street" Ralph said. Lillia suddenly looked at me and then I just said I dunno. "Well? Okay then." Lillia said. "Hey wait a minute! I didn't know you moved? When did you moved?" Rose said. Ralph turned around to the exit and then everything went silence...again. "That's none of your business" Ralph said with a cold look. Ralph attidute is started to get in my nerve. Treating Rose as she was an outsider. Ralph started to walk toward the exit and I was standing next to the exit. As he was walking toward me & the exit, he said something to me while he was leaving. "You don't deserve Lillia" Ralph said. I suddenly frozed & my shoulder's started to get heavy.

Chapter 8) Strange Feelings

Lillia started to walk with Ralph and then Rose stood in front of Alex door. "It looks like things are gonna get ugly. Be careful Blackheart" Alex said. Alex put his hand on my shoulders and told me to walk Rose to her place. "I know but I'm going to strike him for talking to Rose like that." I replied. "Quick! She walking away! Go because I'm going to get worried" Alex said with a worried look. "Okay don't worry! she'll be fine." I said cheerfully. I started to run toward Rose and then put my arm around her shoulder. "Let me walk you home? k?" I said. Rose said ok and then put her head on my chest. When we got to Rose place, It looks normal but all her lights were off. "Um? Is your parents asleep or something?" I said. "No...I don't know where my Mom went. My Dad abonded me & my mom when I was very little" Rose said. "What! Well? What about your Brothers & Sisters?" I said. "My big bro and sis moved away 3 years ago. one of them still live around Massachusetts but I don't know where." Rose said. "I feel sorry for you. You must've been lonely all this time." I replied. Rose looked at me and then she looked down. "Um...do...do you want to come in?" Rose said. I Quickly said yes because it's cold out and then Rose grabbed my arm. When I got inside it was dark and then when Rose turned on the lights. She got a Big TV, a huge couch, and she even got video games. "Wow! I didn't know you play video games." I said. "Do you want to challenge me then?" Rose replied. We started to play a fighting game and we kept getting a draw. "When you said that I must've been lonely. well? I wasn't really. Ralph always come to my place and he always lay in my couch while I play my video games." Rose said. At exact moment I heard a very loud stomach growl and it was coming from Rose. "You didn't ate at Alex place? didn't you?" I said with a suspicious look. It's a good thing that I brought $20 and I have a craving for chinese food. "I got cash and we can order Chinese food. Beside that's the only place that's open" I said. So we did and we both ate chinese food. I was struggling on holding on the chopstick. "This is my first time eating with chopsticks" I said. Rose laughed and showed me how. After we ate I said goodbye to Rose and headed home.

A month later and it's Valentine's Day but I have no Idea what's Valentine's Day. I told Rose about it at her place and she gave me this scary look. "You? Never heard of Valentine's Day? Where have you been?" Rose said. "Well? I actually I heard of it from TV and they kept showing a chocolate that's a shape of a heart?" I replied. "Well? sort of. Valentine's Day is about giving a special someone a special gift" Rose said. Rose face suddenly turned red and then she started to rub her hand. "Also...Showing...how much...you Lo..Love...that person" Rose said. Well actually I wasn't really listening because I was watching a commercial about a sale on Valentine's gift in a Mall. "Hey! Elias!" Rose shouted. I turn my head and a toy cat was coming right at me. I got hit on my fore head and then I fell down from the couch. "Hey! What was that for?" I shouted. "You weren't listening to me!" Rose shouted. At exact moment, I got an Idea. "Hey let's go to the mall!" I said randomly. "What? Just the two of us? But...but..but! What about the other's?" Rose said. "We don't need Them!" I replied. "Um?...Ok! Lets go!" Rose cheerfully said. Couple minutes later, we arrived at the mall that we usually go. "Hey?" Rose said but I was thinking hard & I couldn't hear her. she says hey three more times and then she grab my arm. "Let's go this way!" Rose shouted. I was still thinking & then couple of mintues later I realize that we're in a store for girls. "EH! Hey! What the?" I shouted. "How do I look?" Rose said. Rose changed & she looked amazing. "Woah...Cute!" I said. Then Rose face suddenly turn red & went back inside. "Hey why did you turn red? Are you mad?" I said with a worried look. "N. No. No...I...I'm..Not mad. Danny." Rose replied. "Oh? well? Ok! Hahahaha..eh?" I replied back with shocked look. "How? Did she know my middle name?" I said to myself. I told Rose that I want to go in another store & She changed back to original clothes. While we were walking to another store on the 3rd floor, I notice someone that looks like a lot like Rose & Ralph but I said it's my imagination. We entered a toy store & I looked around hoping to find something cool. I walked at the end of the store & found a stuffed bunny that says "Happy Valentine's". I also found a stuffed kitten that said the same thing. I bought both of them & rose got 3 things, I couldn't tell what she bought. "Let's go home?" I said. Rose said okay with a smile & starting to spin around. "Well? I can see that you're having fun." I said while laughing. Then suddenly I bumped into someone & fell on the floor. "Ow? Sorry? It's my fault....!" I said. Then I saw Lillia right in front of me & then I looked up. Ralph & Alex had this weird expression. "ELIAS! HI!" Lillia shouted. We both got up & then Lillia kissed me on my cheek, then everybody was shocked. "Lillia you just kissed Danny on the cheek." Rose said. "Oh? I guess I did?" Lillia said while laughing. "We gotta stop meeting like this" I said. Lillia looked at my bag I was holding & tried to grab to get a peek inside the bag. "Aw? Come on! let me take a peek!" Lillia said while we were both on the floor. Then Lillia stared to tickle me & people started to stare at us. "HAHAHA! Stop! people are staring!" I said. "I don't care." Lillia replied. Then finally I pulled out a stuffed bunny that says "Happy Valentine's" & gave it to Lillia. "Happy Valentine's Day" I said. Lillia said "Aw" & Then People said "Aw". I got up & grab Rose arm and left. "I'll see you guys later" I said while running away. Alex smiled & waved but Ralph still had the same cold look on his face.

20 minutes later we came across at a Burger King but then Rose started to laugh pretty hard. "Hey? What the?" I shouted. "You & Lillia sure make a perfect couple & today was Hilarious! It's like watching a scene from a cartoon between You & Lillia" Rose said while laughing. I didn't say anything because Rose was actually glowing...but...then I realize there was a Light shining behind her. "I didn't forget about you" I said. Rose stopped laughing and she tilted her head. "Here! Happy Valentine's Day...Rose" I said. Rose picked up the Stuffed toy & took out a Rose of the cat. "WHAT THE! I DON'T REMEMBER PUTTING THAT ON THE CAT! Or...bought a rose! Did I?" I shouted. "I love it" Rose said. She smile & leaned toward me to give me a hug. "Augh? You're welcome" I replied. "I just notice something about you" Rose said. "I know? I'm hot!" I said. Rose giggle & turned around. "You're the only boy I know that don't get nervous around girls or act different around girls. Most boys usually make fun of girls & say like...ooo you have cooties or something like that" Rose said. "Huh? That's what Lillia said about me too" I replied. Rose suddenly changed the subject & said that she was hungry. I told her if she want to eat at Burger King & I was buying. After we ate we said our goodbyes.

Chapter 9) Alex VS Elias

A year later & things hasn't changed. Ralph is still acting like a jerk, Rose still having a hard time contacting Ralph, & the rest of us we're still doing the same routine. The only thing that has changed was my age & my grade. I'm 12 Year's old & in the 6th grade, Also I started to get into drawing comics & my first comic was a fan made Bomber Man. Did i mentioned, that i'm obessess with the Bomber Man game? It's Monday, March 18 & It's a warm morning, My mother dropped me off near my school & went to the store to buy my own lunch. When I got out of the store, Lillia showed up & quickly looked down. "Good morning Lil" I said. Lillia said Goodmorning to me & quickly bought her snack. I just stood there & thinking whats wrong with her but then realize its still morning. "Um? I guess I'll talk to her later...girls...They're so complicated" I said to myself. After School I didn't see Lillia anywhere & we usually go to our hangout together afterschool. I waited for the bus but I completely forgot to get change for the bus & went to the nearest store to get change but the time I got back I've already missed my bus. So I waited for the next one. 5 minutes later, Lillia got out from school late but when I say Hi to her, Lillia Just looked down. "Girls...They're so Complicated-huh!" I interrupted myself. I notice a mark on Lillia face. "LILLIA! What happened to your face?" I shouted. Lillia just looked the other way & I just stood there thinking who would of hurt Lillia. Then in minutes I realized who was respondsible for bruising Lillia face. "It was Ralph wasn't it?" I said while staring at her eyes. Lillia looked at my eyes & then looked down. Couple of mintues later I was Dancing silly front of her & making a fool out of myself in public, singing a song that don't even ryhme. "When looking a sky, you see pie...Um? Cat, Bat, & Rat rhyme with Chat...Do the Pika-Dance...1, 2, 5!...um? Spin around & fall on a clown...TADA!?!" I singed. In seconds, Lillia burst with laughter. I hugged her right away & then she just became quite again for a long time...The bus is about to arrived & we're still hugging. "Danny...I don't want to go to our hangout" Lillia whispered. "Um? Sure let's hang at my place...I got a new game?" I replied. Lillia nodded & we got on the bus & arrived at my place in 20 minutes. Lillia & I skipped out on hanging with the others. After a few minutes, Lillia was sleeping on my bed. I said to myself that she looked like an angel. I got up & tuck my blanket on Lillia then headed to the kitchen. I found a note saying that my mother & my brothers were at a relative place & won't be back home until Sunday, she also left me some cash so I can buy whatever I want. This isn't the first time my mother left me alone for the weekends, I find it quite amusing. I actually like it when my Mother & Brothers are not home. Lillia woke up from her nap & apologized for sleeping on my bed. "Nah? it's quite alright...You look pretty cute when you're sleeping" I said. Lillia smiled & then started to walk toward me. "Danny...Ralph is going out of control" Lillia said. "I see? so that's how you got that bruise on your face? Ralph hit you...why?." I replied. Lillia took a long paused. "Because I love you...Ralph...got...jealous" Lillia said while crying. I just stood there & stared at her for a long time. "Lillia...I...I...I also...love you too." I said while touching the bruise with my thumb. Lillia flinch & said a quick ow then in second I came closer to her face & then I gave a kiss on the lips. We kissed for 5 seconds but to me it felt like an hour. "Hmm? taste like Chocolate" I said. Lillia Laugh & then punch me on my chest pretty hard. "Wow! You totally killed our mood...you're the worst boyfriend" Lillia shouted. "Oh? So now we're boyfriend & girlfriend huh?" I said.

The next day, Its a nice day & Lillia is back to her old self again but I'm still thinking I should beat up Ralph for hurting Lillia. After school, Lillia & I arrived at the hang out. Lillia told Alex & Rose about us being a couple but they said it wasn't a surprise. "Yeah? We already know that sooner or later that you two will become a couple...remember in December of last year?" Rose said. Alex just smiled & laughed. "Oooh! My two little kids are now grown up...you guys grow up so fast." Alex said. Then Alex notice the bruise on Lillia face. "Lillia! What happen to your beautiful face?" Alex shouted. "Ralph punched me" Lillia said with a smile. Alex just stood there & staring at her face. "Yikes! He looks like he's going to kill Ralph when he gets here" I said to Rose. "Well yeah! Alex loves Lillia like a little sister" Rose replied quitely to me. "MY POOR BABY SISTER!" Alex shouted. Then he picked up Lillia & hugged her while Rose & I have our mouth wide open. "Scratch that...He's going to kill Lillia" I said. Rose & I started to laugh after that. Then we heard a loud slam & it's Ralph walking toward us slowly. Lillia went behind Alex & Alex put on his serious face on. "Ralph...What you did to Lillia is a horrible thing to do!" Alex Shouted. Ralph just stared at Alex & gave him a weird smirk. "What are you going to do? punish men?" Ralph replied. "No!...Blackheart will!" Alex said. "Hey? WHAT!" I yelled. Then Rose, Lillia, & even Alex did a cheer for me. "HEY! WHAT? WHY DO I HAVE TO PUNISH HIM?" I yelled. Alex just smiled & then he point at Ralph. "Cuz' he's a jerk" Alex said. Then I looked at Ralph & said "Bad Ralph bad" but Ralph just laugh a little. "Alex? I don't know how to punish him!" I yelled. Alex, Rose, & Lillia Yelled watch out. I turned around & Ralph was right in front of me. He gave me a hard kick on my chest that made flew a few feet away from him. Then Ralph pick me up & started Punching me on my stomach & on my face. after that Ralph spined & Kick me on the head so hard that it made me go blurry for couple seconds. "Hmmp! I don't know why Lillia chose you? You're such a weakling." Ralph said while staring me down. "I'll smash your face" Ralph said. When I looked at his eyes, all I see is a different person, this person isn't Ralph that I know. Ralph slowly lift his foot & then I heard Lillia saying stop. Ralph looked at Lillia & with that exact moment I kick his legs, making him unbalance a little bit. I got up & step back quickly. "What was that? That wasn't a strong kick! YOU WEAKLING!" Ralph said. "I guess I have no choice then...I'll seriously hurt you!" I replied. Ralph started to run toward at me & tried to punch me on my face but I duck & kick his shoes. Making him go unbalance a little bit then with that I grab his arm & swung him around a bit. Then I pull his arm & hitting his stomach with my knee. Ralph was on the floor with a great pain but I was also on the floor & rubbing my knee. "Ow ow ow ow! that wasn't very smart of me!" I said. We both got up quickly & I saw tears coming down on Ralph face. "What's the matter? Why are you crying?" I said. Ralph said shut up & then charge at me like a bull. I went for his stomach again & then I lift him. I threw Ralph toward the nearest wall & kick him on the stomach again. "That's enough!" Rosed yelled. I looked at rose & she was crying. "Oh no! did I went too far?" I said to myself. I looked at Ralph & Ralph just stared at me. "That'll be it...I think you had enough...The next time you hurt Lillia...I won't hold back" I said while looking down on him.

I put my hand front of his face & then he looked at my hand then looked up. I gave him a smile & said sorry that I went rough on you. Ralph grab my arm & I help him get up. "Now I know why Lillia chose you...You're different than me & other guys." Ralph whispered. We both smile & then we heard a clap. We looked around & it was coming from Alex. "Well? Well? Well? So you were holding back?...That won't do? Now its my turn!" Alex said with a creepy smile. Then Alex started to run toward us & I pushed ralph agaist the wall. Alex threw a fast punch on my face & then I tried to kick him but he striked me pretty hard that all I see was the place spinning around. "ALEX! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING!" I yelled. "It looks like you're not serious Blackheart...I guess I have no choice." Alex said. Alex walks toward the girls & then with one single strike to Lillia face, Lillia was on the floor & knocked out. "LILLIA!" Ralph, Rose, & I yelled. Then Alex strike Rose on the face as well & she was on the floor in great pain. Ralph & I was in furious. Both of us charged at Alex & fighting Alex but it was still not enough to take him down. Alex is so skilled fighter & not even 5 men can't take him out because Alex is that strong & fast. After couple of minutes of fighting. I was on the floor & looked at Lillia then said why to Alex. Alex just stared at me until I was knocked out. Couple of hours went by & Lillia woke me up. "Elias! Thank god...you're awake." Lillia said while hugging me. I looked around & I saw Rose hugging Ralph. "I'm glad that all of you are alright." I said. "What just happened?" Ralph said. "I don't know?" I replied. I notice there was 4 water bottles on a chair. "Hey guys...look!" I said. I got up & pick a bottle up. "This bottle is still cold...but?...why is it here?" I said. I opened it up started drinking it & so did the other's. Lillia started to cry & so did Rose then I looked at Ralph & we don't know what to do.

Chapter 10) The Empty House [COMING SOON & SNEAK PEEK]

Couple of weeks after the incident, I was still wandering why Alex would do such a thing to us. Alex was my Teacher & friend but now with the hatred & angered still boiling up inside of me. all I could think about was revenge. Later that day, I heard my door being opened then I feel something ice cold on my face. I looked & it was Lillia. "How?...How did you get in?" I said. Lillia looked down & then smiled. "Your door was opened...so? um? & I wanted to see you." Lillia replied. I chuckled & looked at Lillia then a pebble flew in through my window. I looked & I saw Ralph & Rose standing with a creepy smile. "Um? What's going on?" I said. Lillia turned around & started to play with my things. "Well? What I'm about to say might sound really crazy & dangerous...but the three of us decided to go to Alex place & figure out...what...what" Lillia replied while sobbing. "No..." I said. "Wha?..." Lillia responded back. "You heard me...you three are stupid! thinking you guys can take down Alex." I said. Lillia just kept looking down. "that's why I'm going alone..." I said. "WHAT! No! You can't!" Lillia shouted. "It's too dangerous for you three to fight him. Beside...you should know I'm a skilled fighter than you, Rose, & Ralph." I responded. Lillia started to stare at me & then put her 2 fingers on my forehead. "Something tells me that you're not gonna listen to me..." I said. Lillia nodded & then turned around & smiled. "Alright? fine...let's go then." I said. We both went outside where Rose & Ralph were standing. "Alright?...let's go" I said. We didn't chat much & looked at each other while heading to Alex place.