Summer Splash Tatianna

“Dad.” I say seriously as I park up in the school carpark. 1st day of term senior year at a new school and I’m dreading it. Last year was a bad year for us, the last two years have been. Mom passed away after battling with cancer for two years, three months ago. Dad really stepped up and he’s great. But his idea of dealing with our issues doesn’t match mine.

“Nothing good ever starts with the word Dad.” He says seriously looking up from his speech and lesson plans.

“nothing good starts with driving your father to his first day of school.” I say.

“hey at least im not the one dropping my teenage daughter off at school on her senior year.” He says.

“Dad learn to drive.” I tell him.

“why my teenage daughter learnt to drive so now I have a taxi service when ever I want one.” He teases me. I roll my eyes at him.

“How can you live 36 years and not know how to drive.” I groan at my father.

“skill.” He tells me.

“I think that’s the lack of skill dad.” I say.

“are you scared for your first day at school? Do I need to walk you to the princibles office?” I tease him.

“Yes please as you have to go there anyway to pick up your scedule.” He reminds me.

“Are you okay with this Tati?” he asks me.

“Dad you’ve been a teacher at my school pretty much the last 3 years. If I had a problem with you being the principal, I would have less issues in my life than what I actully have.” I tell him, I squeeze his hand. He looks at me seriously.

“I didn’t mean me being your teacher or princibal Tats.” He informs me.

“this is a big change, for both of us, its still very soon.” He says worriedly.

“Dad its just school. Ive been to a lot of them by now. so have you. more than me.” I tease him.

“Just tell me who you’re here to watch and I will do the normal dad.” I say. he gives me a look.

“I would prefer it if you stayed out of it this time Tats.” He admits.

“Why whats up with this one? An aggressive power?” I ask interested.

“Kid just do us a favour and this time stay away from the kids im here to watch.” He tells me looking serious.

“Is this one of the reasons you didn’t want to take this one?” I ask him.

“I planned to next year if it hadn’t been dealt with, this is just very soon.” He says.

“which means younger than me.” I say thinking about it.

“Not nessery I did that four years in college remember and plan to next year when you go to college.” He says seriously.

“Dad who says I still even want to go college?” I tease. he gives me a look. I put my hand up in surrender, I do plan to, kinda even assumed my dad would follow me there.

“There is so much this world has to offer, espically to someone like you.” He informs me.

“If you say so.” I tell him.

“Come on or we will both be given detention for being late on our first day of school.” I say.

“I packed your lunch and added an extra bit of fruit and veg you need to eat, because you’ve been eating rather poorly the last few weeks with the move.” I tell him.

“but I don’t like carrots.” He fake whines.

“Who even said it was carrots.” I say. it was but he just assumed. He gives me another look. I can’t help but smile at him.

“Tati stop being the parent.” He tells me.

“But you need it.” I tease.

“could send you off to live with your grandma for the year.” He points out.

“That isn’t a punishment for me dad. I would be spoilt rotten.” I tease.

“anyway its you who needs grandma.” I point out.

“come on or you really should have detention. You have a huge assembly you can’t be late for and you have to meet other teachers and introduce yourself.” I tell my father.

“but I don’t want to go school.” He fake whines.

“So skip day?” I ask him.

“I don’t think I would get away with that my first day.” he says.

“Dad you do this every term, you have a little freak out before we go into school. Its getting a bit sad. Remember you’re the boss. You make the rules and you control everyones futures.” I say. He gives me a look.

“your scary sometimes kid.” He tells me.

“I take after my mother now stop being a baby and be brave and go face those students and teachers.” I tease him. He looks out the window at the new school.

“Try make friends kid.” He tells me.

“try not to make everyone hate you then.” I tell him. He slots his folder into his briefcase. I open my door and climb out. he climbs out a miniute later. I watch him straighten his tie. My dad looks at me. I nod my head at him telling him without words that we both got this. He looks at me worried but we both make our way to the highschool in silence. Not many of the kids are here yet. Dad wanted to be here early because of his usual freak out. He opens the front door wide for me. I walk in and the first thing I notice is the metal detectors. We both walk in past the school guard. Dad seems to be taking it all in. Hes been a few times to look around. So its not like his first time. But he always likes to centre himself. He introduces himself to the gaurds. I stand back and watch him. The five of them don’t seem to know what to think of him. To be honest I don’t blame them. he is such a weirdo. he has them all laughing at one of his terrible dad jokes within minutes. I can’t help but watch him. No one would be able to guess that he isn’t confident at all. I pick up my bag once its finished being searched and make my way with my dad to his offices. We go through a door that says princable offices. There is his secretary desk and then another room that leads to his office. He looks at the empty secretary desk then his watch.

“She will be here.” I say, knowing it for a fact. I can count on one hand how many times Mayven has let dad down and I would still have five fingers. In other words since she was hired two years ago just after mom got sick she has gone above and beyond her job description. Her and her husband even stepped in after mom passed and dad and I could barely function.

“I know, she always is.” Dad says he walks to his office and unlocks his door. I watch him interested, as he seems to go in to make himself at home.

“what happened to the old secretary?” I ask.

“shes still got the job. She should be here soon too. Hopefully soon enough that one or the other could print of your schedule.” He says seriously.

“I should have just come and registered like everyone else.” I sigh.

“You were still at your grandmothers.” Dad points out, I was last week. She hadn’t wanted me to leave. She hadn’t got over moms’ death yet either. It was hard for her. It was hard for all of us. Dad puts a photo on his desk and I pick it up. Its him and mom and me. Him and mom in there matching college graduation robes with me in my kindergarten graduation robe. I can’t help but smile at it. Mom’s bright amber eyes that I have inherited seem to sparkle from the picture telling me I got this. Dad puts his hand on my shoulder, I smile back at him. The only real difference between this man in the photo and the dad behind me is the slightly retreating hairline and the very odd grey hair in his brown hair that’s started creeping up the last year or two. I put the photo down.

“She would be so proud of us.” Dad says seriously.

“She would. Have a good first day of school dad.” I say.

“You too kiddo.” He says as we here the door open. I pop my head out and see a woman I don’t know and take it that’s the other secretary. Shes got to be in her late 40s.

“Miss you shouldn’t.” she doesn’t finish what shes about to say as Dad follows me out the office.

“Ah Mrs Swifton.” Dad says smiling his disarming smile. she looks at him then me.

“Could you possibly print of my daughters here schedule.” Dad says giving her his smile.

“oh ofcourse, you must be Tatiana Carter.” She says with a smile at me.

“Yeah but please call me Tati.” I tell her going towards her. She goes behind her desk and starts typing.

“I will be home late tonight Tats.” Dad warns me.

“its fine. Im going to video call Avril and tell her how much i hate you.” I tell him smiling at him. His secretary looks up at that, but obviously can see im teasing my dad but doesn’t seem to know how to react. Mayven would tell me to add how much my father is destroying my life.

“I did tell you that you could spend the year living with her and her parents.” Dad points out.

“Yeah and they were more willing to send Avril to live with us. So don’t push them as you know it would be a disaster for you.” I point out. he looks worried at the mere idea.

“here you go Miss Carter.” The secretary says holding my schedule up and loads of forms. I take them from her.

“thanks but please call me Tati. Youll see me a lot when dad forgets his lunchbox.” I tell her. She doesn’t seem to know how to react.

“Make friends.” I warn dad. He shakes his head but smiling.

“go so I don’t end up giving you detention.” He says.

“going.” I say and I leave the office. The corridors are more a buzz as I get out. I look at one of the pieces of paper and go on the hunt for my locker. I find it easily and its right near my homeroom class so I lean on the wall and wait for a bit longer. I try to blend into the lockers and try see if I can spot the reason we are here. After I see the guy that must be my homeroom teacher walk in the room I follow him and hand the teacher my form. He takes it. He waves his hand at the desks, so I go and take a seat at the front. I pull out my book and start to read. I know that today first period is assembly so dad can introduce himself to everyone. I’m still reading when the hairs on my arm start to stand on end. I find myself lifting my eyes straight away and taking in the bronze fit blonde who has just walked into the classroom. He is laughing at something someone is saying to him. I put my book away and watch him as he walks past me. he seems to freeze a second later. He looks back at me, I move my hair so my dark brown hair hides me a bit so he isn’t aware how every nerve on my body suddenly feels like it wants to abandon me and bond to him. Dad was right I shouldn’t have come to this school with him. The guys dark blue eyes seem to see right through me in a way that’s petrifying. A frown goes to his lips and he carrys on walking. I let my breath go I hadn’t even realized I was holding. Nope not happening yet. Yeah it may have worked out for my parents but I wasn’t ready for that shit show. Even if it was the case it wasn’t like it was guaranteed. That spark just meant we were compatible. Not that he was 100% the right one for me. I watch our home room teacher as he seems to go over the rules everyone knows already by the disinterest of all my fellow class.

“So, first period today is an assembly. If you haven’t got your schedule yet please come forward.” He says. no one does.

“good.” He says. when the bell rings he tells us all to make our way to the school auditorium.

“Miss.” He starts looking at me. I know hes about to lastname me and in a way tell the whole class im the princibls kid.

“yeah?” I say, looking at him. Hoping to head him off. He looks at me and obviously decides im not worth targeting.

“Prehabs someone will help you find your way around today.” He says indicating the class.

“its okay.” I say.

“I can help her sir.” A goody toeshoes says from the front near me. I look at her and know if I have to put up with that kind of person I may commit geniside. But I give her the same smile my father gives people to put them at ease.

“thanks.” I say, not really meaning that. I hear talking behind me but don’t turn to face the guy that’s voice seems to travel through me like its my own personal kryptonite. Thankfully class is over quick. I'm going to have to get dad to change my homeroom. Shit he really will send me to live with grandma if I tell him that I have a potential spark. The girls over at my desk as soon as she can be.

“Hi I’m Claire.” She starts. He walks past me and my skin goes on fire, my spark wanting to escape.

“Tati.” I say introducing myself to Claire.

“so.” I don’t hear what she's saying feeling his eyes on me. he will be able to feel it. But does he even know what it means? Does he even know what he is?

“Sorry I missed that.” I say once hes left the room and I feel like I can breathe again. Claire seems rather let down with me. good I don’t come to schools to make friends. I got the best friends a girl can ask for Avril, Fion, Katya, Alexis and Albie are the only friends I need. We might not be together that often but they are the only people in the world that will ever understand me. except dad. She says it all again. I listen but I know i'm not sending off friendly vibes. I follow her down the hall as she gives me the speech and asks me questions I don’t bother answering. When we get to the auditorim I take the reubex cube that is being handed out by two bemuzed looking teachers. Claire takes one too and leads me to the front benches and her friends.

“thanks for showing me the way, but I think I got this.” I tell her. I then walk away from her and her friends and go sit where my dad can look at and look like hes talking to everyone. If he focuses on me he gets through his speeches easier. My dad wasn’t built for public speaking. This is why this had been moms job not his. He had always just been the teacher. He never took charge until he had to. i have sat down when my eyes get drawn back to the front of the hall. How is that possible? How can I live my whole life only coming across the spark once and then have it with 3 absolute strangers? It was defiantly three as the two black haired latino looking twins walked into the room. How was there so many in this school? How had they got through to seniors without the council sending someone in. they were obviously popular, prehabs jocks. As they walked up the steps one obviously became aware of me. he winked at me. I couldn’t help but give him a smile. I turned to take him in as he and his twin sat next to blonde. I force myself to look away and to concentrate on my rubix cube. I have solved it before Dad even comes on the stage. Everyone stops talking and looks at him. I see him swallow. He hates this.

“Hello students.” He starts. Really he told me he had to cut the ladies and gentlemen out of his speech to be more gender neutral but students dad? Could have been worse I suppose he could of said hello guys or worse hello humans hes made that mistake one to many times. He looks straight at me.

“As most of you are aware Mrs Charter has gone on a tempory leave of absence.” He starts.

“yeah she was knocked up.” One of the kids calls. A few laughs.

“Yes well whilst she is away I shall be taking over her responsibiltys as tempory headmaster.” Dad says.

“I am professor Carter and I shall be in charge here until Mrs Charter returns. I hope that we have a good school year together.” He says. I see the other teachers exchange looks. I want to mime a sinking ship but I don’t.

“Now you all should have a rubux cube.” Dad says.

“each cube has a different pattern, each cube is individual, each cube has a different way to make them fit into the box that is your education and who’s to say a different pattern isn’t more special.” He says.

“no two cubes need to be answered the same way and I believe in that way of teaching. That no child learns the same way. So please note my door is always open to hear people out.” Dad says. he looks at the screen behind him and starts flicking through screens and explaining them. I do honestly listen but its hard to pay attention to a speech I know word for word now. Today marks my 5th school that my dad has taught at. In fact I’ve had him or mom or even Grandma at every school I have ever attended. I would be more concerned if I didn’t have a family member teaching me than if I did. Another teacher comes on the stage after dad hands it over to them. Dad steps back and sits in his seat. He looks everything the confident headmaster that will bust your ass but I know inside he is hoping that everyone understood what he was trying to get across. that hes broken since we lost mom. that this is way to soon for both of us. Even if mom had told us that we had to be strong. I watch the rest of the slides. Welcoming the freshemen and new students. Then the depurty head says a warm welcome to dad and then thankfully after an hour its over and we are all dismissed to our first class of the day. which is second period. I look at my schedule and then the map. I got this. Well at least I have it when I’m walking down the steps. I have it right up to the moment someone puts there hand on my ass. I turn around quickly its not a spark so not anyone I would welcome even a little touch from. It takes a bit to warn myself not to react the way I want. I give him the smile that puts everyone at ease that I have been forced to put on a touch to much lately and even I can feel its starting to crack. I simply say.

“Could buy me dinner first.” He steps back as if not expecting that in a million years. Then a huge smile goes on his face.

“So pick you up tonight?” he says looking shocked but trying to joke. I look him up and down as if seriously debating it. Notice one of the popular girls next to him. Obviously popular as in a cheerleading outfit. I also notice blondie behind them. a frown on his lips. I force myself not to look at him and instead look at the cheerleaders boobs.

“Not tonight, but if she was asking the answer may have been different.” I tell him, he looks at the girl whos looking outraged. I find my eyes searching out blonde no bad girl. Don’t look at the blonde god. Keep your eyes focused on the cheerleader who had looked outraged but now is looking at me like shes questioning her own sexuality. I smile at her.

“what you say fancy coffee?” I ask her.

“No.” she says managing to sound outraged again. But theres interest in her eyes now.

“Alright then so no date sorry.” I say to guy whos looking from her to me with a slight boner. What is it with teenboys. I look down at it trying to guess the size. Blonde hits him on the back of the head.

“We are going to be late.” Blonde grumbles. But its not like we can move any faster the whole reason the guy got my ass is the crowd trying to get out of two doors. Don’t look at blonde. Don’t let him know how you feel his voice right down to your toes. Please don’t let him have a mental ability. Reading minds sucks for the person in question and for everyone around them. I love Albie but the dude struggles on a normal day. if he was a mind reader he would know what I just thought. But im not going to hide my thoughts. if someone is like us surely it would be worse to know people hid themselves from him. A quick look at his face informs me he isn’t no mind reader. I'm going a physical power. Interesting. But the anyoyance in his eyes tells me he doesn’t like me. that’s fine. Just because theres a spark don’t mean its love or even soul mates. It just means we are compatible. His dark blue eyes glare at me.

“move new kid.” He snaps.

“She can’t Leon.” Pinch ass guy says, indicating the huge crowd in front of me. I get it blonde don’t like me in his vasinity. I look down at my map again. Taking a few steps forward ignoring the group.

“So shes a lez right?” I hear someone say behind me. I duck under someone taller than me and work my way out the crowd now im through the door, the crowds spread out. I make my way to my class. Aware of blonde behind me at most points. Please tell me I don’t have classes with him. I walk into class aware of him and cheerleader and pinch ass guy still there. with a few more kids. I hand the waiting teacher my forms and then go through my bag on a seat at the front. I don’t need to be a genius to know blonde and his friends took the back.

“Teachers pet.” Someone says. but I ignore them getting my note book out. I look up when I feel someone hovering over my desk. I can tell its blonde by the prickle on my skin.

“move.” He says.

“what?” I ask, the teachers stood at the board looking like she doesn’t know how to react.

“Move new kid.” He says. I indicate the still empty desk next to me both sides. I raise my eyes to look in his dark blue that seem to promise me pain. I could tell him theres plenty of empty seats. I could ask him where he wants me to move to. I could ask him a lot. But I give him the smile to defuse tension.

“I will move. That aint the issue.” I say making sure he hears my words and there is no question that im not scared of him, even if his power if volatile.

“But where do I have to move to caveman?” I ask him.

“your old school.” He says glaring at me. oh dear he really hates me.

“I wish I could too.” I assure him.

“but that’s not possible, so which seat in this class can I claim.” I say giving him a look.

“Mr Abron take your seat.” The teacher says obviously not knowing what to do, I hear the tell tale sign that shes a bit frightened of this guy. That is never a good sign. He looks at me and then sits at the desk next to me. leaving his stuff at the back of the class. Books get passed down and I want to groan already of mice and men. Already done this, but hey can reuse my essays surely? I look at the board and write what the teacher is saying. More than a little aware of blonde. Of the electricity running along my skin. I risk a look at him at one point and hes watching me as if trying to kill me with his glare. I roll my eyes. Maybe I should tell dad I want to live with grandma this year after all.

“So everyone read the rest of chapter 3 and four and answer the questions on page 7 8 and 9.” The teacher says.

“any questions?” she asks. I put my hand up.

“yes Miss.” She starts, she goes to look at my form.

“Tati.” I say.

“I have already done this at my last school and I did it at the previous school. If I hand you my work on the subject can I work on something different?” I ask her. She looks at me.

“You have all that work?” she asks me.

“yeah, did this in AP English last year.” I say.

“I will have to.” she starts.

“I can do it again, it just seems a waste of time.” I admit.

“then drop the subject.” Blonde grumbles.

“prehabs talk with your guidance councilor but I will see what I can do Miss.” She looks down at my forms

“Please call me Tati.” I say, wanting to roll my eyes.

“I will see what I can do Tati, but prehabs you should make a meeting with your guidance councilor as if you were in AP English your last school, this class may move to slowly for you.” She says.

“Will do thanks.” I say, even if dad hadn’t wanted me near this guy, it would be likely he had put me in his classes anyway. He does that a lot. Another person to confirm the suspicions. I put my stuff back in my bag. Blonde is hovering over me when ive finished. I look up at him.

“Stay away from me.” he sneers at me.

“then don’t sit next to me.” I say giving him a bemused look. He storms out. I give his friend a look who pinched my ass.

“what is his issue?” I ask.

“Pass.” He says.

“what have you got next?” he asks, smiling at me.

“History.” I say.

“Come on then, walk with me.” he says. I look at the cheerleader with him. She is looking at me as if still questioning her sexuality.

“Alright.” I say. I walk with them to History.

“so where have you moved from?” Pinching ass guy asks.

“Missouri.” I say. not mentioning that had only been a year and that was literally because of the doctor that was based there for mom.

“move around a lot?” Cheerleader asks.

“You could say that.” I say. truth was my home had never been my house. Dad he was my home. mom was my home. no matter where in the world we were as long as I had those two, I was still at home. it was another reason the floor had been pulled out from under me. No matter how sick mom had been she had always been there. Now she was gone and I wasn’t okay even if I could fool everyone including Dad that I’m coping. I’m not as well as he thinks. But I think at the end of the day I’m still coping more than him. I walk in silence thinking about everything as I make my way through the halls. I take Blonde in in front of us with one of the latino twins. Fuck both of them in one class. Would dad actually be able to cope if I said I want to live with grandma this year? He was barely keeping it together now a days. If I didn’t make his lunch and dinner he wouldn’t remember to eat anymore. I take a seat at the front of the class, knowing Latino and Blonde are at the back. I don’t know which twin it is, but his indifference when he looked at me makes me think it wasn’t flirty. I hand the teacher my forms. She takes it, and indicates the class. I take an empty seat not on the front row this time but still free for me. ignoring the empty chair next to Blonde. I can feel his eyes pouring into the back of my head. Is he going to make another scene. Nope he doesn’t. Good! Even if I can feel the electricity of both of ther stares I know more than most that most the time kids like him are questioning themselves more than anyone else could. Look at Katya she didn’t even find out she had powers until she was 12 and thought she was a freak. So hid it. It took Dad, Mom and me a lot to work on getting her to trust us. She had been a foster kid like most the kids we discover not already in the fractions and there we were a family with powers who wanted to take her away from everything she ever knew. But she was doing great now! In fact she was doing better than I was. Her powers made her a bit wary of others, but she knew I just wanted to be her friend that I got moved around a lot because Dad felt it was his duty to be there for kids like him and her that didn’t know and who felt so alone in this world. She was less alone now than I was and I think all of them knew it. I was there to help them but they helped me at the same time. I kind of leaned to doing it myself when im older. No one would ever tell me I had to do a set work, but in truth it only ever felt like I had little options. I could do a job to help my kind, or I could do a job for me. but even then, I could still help in one way. My phone buzzes in my bag, I pull it out and check it under the table expecting it to be one of my friends. I look at it confused, I look at it better.

Unknown – Leave Arizona or you’ll regret it.

Unknown – I mean it freak. Your kind aren’t welcome here. Go or you’ll regret it.

Turning I take in blonde and latino. Neither had there phones out but that doesn’t mean anything. Who even says there power isn’t something to do with technology. Blonde glares at me but he looks at my phone in my hand a moment later. I know having it out in lesson isn’t the best option.

“Miss Carter. I do not know how rules were at your previous school. But this school you are not allowed to use phones in lesson.” My teacher says, next to my desk. I hand it straight to her. It buzzes in her hand.

“should we see whats so important that it inturupts my lesson?” She questions. I don’t know what to say for the best.

“lets see, message from unknown.” She starts. She obviously scans it.

“Miss Carter go to the princables office.” She says. I nod and get up to my feet, putting my books in my bag. Grandmas here I come and I cant even say im disappointed. Worried about leaving dad alone you bet. But going to grandmas nope.

“mam she doesn’t know where it is, I can take her.” Latino says. what? Whos to say the messages aren’t from him and hes going to threaten me in the corridor. I look at him.

“I can find my own way.” I say.

“I think it be best I take her mam.” Latino says.

“Mr Balcazar im sure she can find her own way.” Our teacher says but Latino has already packed his stuff and walked out the door. the teacher hands me my phone.

“Miss Carter this is not a good first impression. I’m not sure how much you got away with at your previous schools.” She starts.

“I’m sorry.” I say and I take the hall pass from her and make my way out the classroom. Giving blonde a look as I do. The moment I get out I take note of latino leaning against a locker a frown on his lips.

“I don’t know how you got my number, but im not scared of you.” I say. rolling my eyes. He snatches my phone out my hand.

“I’m not a little kid who runs to daddy at the first scare.” I roll my eyes. He looks at me.

“whats your password on this thing?” he asks. I roll my eyes and unlock it.

“what want to delete the evidence that’s fine, we can all put it down to instant dislike. I wont get involved in your shit and just leave me to graduate highschool in peace.” I say. he looks at me.

“I think we have a misunderstanding here.” Latino says.

“you think? Glad to know some of your braincells work.” I say, I storm off to daddy’s office. Him behind me. he grabs my arm and stops me in the hallway.

“we didn’t send this. We want you gone but this wasn’t us.” He says firmly.

“well glad to know your not petty enough to send meaningless threats on my phone. Your just petty enough to tell me to move chairs and go back to my old school.” I say rolling my eyes.

“Congrats the three of you think your top dogs. You might even have volentell powers.” I start. He looks at me wide eyed.

“wait you.” he starts.

“of course I know you have powers.” I say rolling my eyes.

“like I wouldn’t feel your power the three of you could bloody light up a beacon. You possibly have been hunted by the Atlanteans, Mayans, Aztecs, Zapotecans, Vinca, Naku, Mycen, and even the Lemuria’s not to mention even the odd underground group for a while now so you can’t be in the dark.” I snap at him. He looks taken aback.

“oh weve had offers from all of them, so what one are you from.” He says glaring at me. it might not be the best way but oh well.

“Atlantean.” I say. he blinks.

“Gosh we aint heard from you guys since kindergarten.” He rolls his eyes.

“What are they doing sending in a little girl.” He says giving me a look.

“First off, I’m not a little girl. Don’t ever think I cant just blow you up if you annoy me.” I say, hey my powers can’t but he doesn’t need to know that. he actually smiles at that.

“Second of all. Im not here for you three.” I say.

“then why are you here?” he questions I roll my eyes.

“Has no one ever just sat you all down and explained our fractions. No, I suppose none of them have the brains for that. Superior species my ass.” I say. hey he’s smiling. The bell rings and doors open.

“Why would they send you?” he questions pushing me through the hallway. The touc of his spark on my back is to much. Fuck Grandma here I really come.

“they haven’t sent me at all. Im here because they’ve sent my parent in, to be there to stop you outing our kind to the world, or if you allow it educate you on how to safetly use you powers. Atlantains don’t ever dictate to other kinds. We educate we aren’t the bloody Vinca or Naku who whisper and put there foot in everywhere to try control the world.” I say rolling my eyes when he pushes me into a stationary cupbored.

“then what the fuck are you doing to us.” He snaps. I want to laugh.

“Dude, if this is about your power going haywire around me, can we get something very clear. I aint interested.” I say.

“what?” he asks me confused. I laugh I can’t help it.

“Omg you really don’t know?” I say looking at his face. I roll my eyes then I start laughing.

“Whats so funny?” He questions.

“Dad was so worried about this placement. he was so worried about it to the point he tried to convince me to stay with Grandma for this year. But you free your just clueless kids.” I say rolling my eyes.

“What makes you think we aren’t dangerous and that its just the three of us.” He says. I raise an eyebrow.

“there’s more than three of you in one spot? And you all haven’t exposed us in 17 years?” I ask him.

“How old were you all when your powers started?” I ask interested.

“What?” he asks confused.

“omg what do you guys actully know, surely if you’ve met the fractions before you know at least a tiny bit?” I ask giving him a look. He seems to give me a look.

“let me guess you’ve never heard anyone out?” I ask him.

“Omg your worse than my friend Albie is and he’s an untrusting mind reader who was raised in foster care.” I say rolling my eyes.

“me Atlantean, you and your twin I suspect Lemuria or Zapotecan but I wouldn’t be able to say for sure. You just got that vibe going on with you. Blonde defiantly comes across a Naku.” I say thinking about it.

“Dad would be able to identify if you agreed to it. But hes not here to dictate. Just protect you idiots from outing us.” I say.

“us?” he asks.

“there is no us.” He says firmly.

“Your kind just can’t claim people because they feel like it.” He snaps.

“And we don’t. we aren’t there to dictate to you. we are here to support you and let you learn in a safe way.” I say.

“how many of you came to protect us.” He says protect us sarcasticly.

“They sent five adults. Im just the tag along. I’m to young to work with them even if I wanted to.” I say.

“Five Alantaians that are going to butt into our lives. Six including you and you wonder why we don’t want you lot here. We aren’t a risk of outing you lot. Go take that back to your hive master and tell him that.” He says.

“hive master?” I ask trying not to laugh.

“the new principal. Which I don’t for one moment believe is really your dad as he's to young to have a 17 year old daughter.” He says.

“yeah him and mom were teen parents. His birth control speech assemblys skip. Just skip I have to for my sanity. We also don’t age as quick as humanity FYI” I say. again he smiles.

“And we aren’t all Atlanteans. Dad is and I am. Mayven is a Mayan and her husband Petrov is a Lemuria. Then there son Alketas is a jerk but he’s a Lemuria. But like always hes possibly just high somewhere getting into trouble and then will claim he did work when hes actully done nothing so he gets paid so he can spend it all on weed.” I say. Again hes looking at me with a smile on his face.

“and your allowed to tell me this?” he asks.

“we believe that not being honest when someone knows they and us our different is wrong. Why should we hide evidence from our kind.” I say.

“didn’t like Atlantis hide there superior technology from the rest of the world. Then get wiped out.” he says seriously.

“we didn’t get wiped out. we got endangered and humans tried to kill us. So yeah we went into hiding. We stay in hiding to keep ourselves safe. If humans knew about us. You’ve got to have seen a movie with that plot.” I say.

“everyone’s seen xmen.” He says.

“exactly.” I say.

“so you’re an alantain which means your water based power right?” he asks.

“no.” I say but I cant help but smile.

“You mentioned mind reading are you?” he asks me.

“no.” I say.

“how about this, I tell you my power if you tell me yours.” I say holding out my hand. He looks at me suspicious.

“you first.” He says, but he doesn’t take my hand.

“Little bit of trust?” I say. he gives me a look that says no. I look away from him knowing dad would have a panic attack if he knew I was using my powers around humans. But I moved the things on the shelf so four things floated about. He looks at them taken aback.

“you’re a Telekinetic?” he asks taken aback.

“main power yeah” I admit. I also have a healing ability, but dad won’t let me use it. Because every time I heal someone, I loose time on my own life. But I’m not going to tell him that. The healing is what caused mom to get the cancer. She healed someone she shouldn’t have. Dad says I’m only to use it if there is no other choice. He did from the moment we all found out I had inherited it when I turned 16 I had already seen that it was costing me my mom so I wasn’t going to fight him on it. He wont even let me register it as I'm never to use it.

“Yours?” I ask interested.

“I have control of fire, pyromaniac basically.” He admits.

“Cool so two of you are ticking time bombs brilliant I’m actually understanding why my dad wanted me to move to live with Grandma this year.” I say.

“maybe you should. We don’t want you here. Who ever sent this. They don’t want you here either.” He says holding up my phone.

“Yeah and maybe if I wasn’t worried about my dad I might.” I say.

“We aren’t going to hurt your dad.” He says rolling his eyes.

“He can leave with you.” he shrugs.

“he is here for the year. He can’t just leave a placement because no one wants him” I shrug.

“he does do normal teaching and this time is his first time being a principal. And all the other teachers are already being mean to him. So be gentle with him. He’s not really ready to be back out on placement” I say. he gives me another look, but I can see the smile on the corner of his lips.

“Your different to the others they’ve sent.” He says.

“no they’ve only ever sent the officials. We aren’t all rules and seriousness. There plenty of others your age. we throw a good party.” I say.

“theres a lot?” he asks taken aback.

“yeah, we have our own schools, our own towns. Our own economy.” I say.

“even got three of our own royal familys and government that combines all of us. Mom was a royalist, Dad is a liberalist. I haven’t made up my own mind yet.” I say shrugging.

“The last sensous that took them 8 years to be filled out so no ones entirely sure how accurate it was had us having 45,000 people. Which if you think about it is nothing to the humans considering theres so many different fractions in that. I think out of the 45,000 only 400 were Zapotecans.” I say.

“you say humans like you aren’t one.” He says.

“that’s because im not.” I shrug.

“neither are you, or your twin or Blonde, the humans used to have loads of names for us, the old ones, the elders, demigods, even gods sometimes if someone was purposely being pompus.” I say.

“they both have names.” He says.

“Yeah and I don’t know them, because blonde thought glaring at me and telling me to move was better than just introducing himself.” I say giving him a look. I hold my hand out again.

“I am Tati and yourself?” I say smiling at him. He looks at me.

“they got the freak part of this text right, what kind of name is Tati?” He says.

“My mom dreamt my name the day before she discovered she was pregnant with me. its short for Tatiana meaning Fairy princess, she thought it was the perfectest name ever. But It’s Tati I only ever get Tatiana when im in trouble and I haven’t been in trouble since Avril, Albie, Fion and I went on a joyride of Telos. but come on dude come off it and introduce yourself or you’ll forever be Grumpy Latino and your brother flirty Latino in my head.” I say. he looks at me.

“I’m not grumpy.” He says. I give him a look as if saying then why are you pouting.

“I’m Luis and my brother is Ross. The guy you’ve nicknamed blonde is Leon.” He says.

“Nice to meet you Luis was that so hard?” I ask him. He shakes his head at me. but again, he’s smiling. I kind of wish he wasn’t as it made my stomach feel funny.

“So why are we in a cupbored?” I ask him.

“closet.” He corrects.

“Sorry i travel a lot.” I shrug.

“Yeah where is Atlantis?” he asks.

“hidden.” I shrug.

“but Atlantis isn’t my home.” I admit.

“Then where ever your home isn’t don’t you want to go back.” He says giving me a look.

“I’ve traveled here there and everywhere since my parent’s graduated college.” I say. he looks at me.

“My mom was a born Atlantean, my dad wasn’t. he grew up alone in this world thinking he was the only one out there with his powers until Grandma went to work at his school like we are here now. She brought mom traveling with her and well they fell in love and the rest is history.” I say, thinking about my own parents love story.

“Dad decided that he wanted to be there for kids like him, so yeah I traveled with him and mom all my life.” I say.

“where is your mom now?” he asks. I can’t help but feel the tear run down my cheek. I quickly rub it off.

“shes gone.” I say.

“how you said it yourself we live longer than humans?” he says.

“we aren’t immune to everything.” I say. another tear runs down my face. I quickly wipe it off hoping he doesn’t ask anymore about mom.

“Sorry for your loss.” He says, obviously telling I'm not okay with it.

“Thanks, to be honest dad shouldn’t be on placement yet. But works the only thing he can functions on currently and id rather him burry himself into his work than go back to those days the other month where he couldn’t even get out of bed.” I say.

“fuck you have two powers.” I groan. He shrugs.

“Not just two but yeah. But your not hiding it from me.” he shrugs.

“How long ago did you loose your mom?” he asks me, looking torn.

“She passed away three months ago. Cancer. Its been a hard year really.” I admit.

“sorry.” He says.

“Its hard. We are taking everyday at a time. i never thought I would loose my mom. she was like my best friend. Dad trys god he trys but hes just lost his wife and he isn’t okay.” I say.

“so please be gentle with him. I get it you don’t want us here. To be honest theres ways you can prove to the fractions that you don’t need watchers. So can the three of you just do that. Prove to the fractions that you don’t need the support and just let dad concentrate on turning this schools grades up and helping those this education is failing. That’s what he enjoys about the job. Seeing those kids that the world gave up on achieving and going on to do great things.” I say.

“he needs an easy job this year. Not one of a group who refuse to talk to us. I get it once you have control and the fractions know the three of you are safe you'll just be allowed to get on with your life.” I say.

“So what like normal jobs, family, kids? And not be dragged into your world?” he questions.

“Really that’s what your concerned about. Our kind saying you have to be with another one of our kind? Or us telling you what job you have to do?” I ask in disbelief. I roll my eyes. I really wont mention what the spark means.

“I would like to say that they aren’t all dinosaurs. There are a few that are. you wouldn’t be expected to have kids or marry anyone particular. Or do any job you don’t want to do. Hell if you wanted to have no job that’s fine by them to. they just wont financially support you so don’t ever expect cash.” I say. he smiles.

“There are laws and such but they match the human ones almost to the t.” I say.

“Some powers are tracked more than others, and we all get assigned a risk level and use level. As some people hold more power than a weapon its sensible to know that they aren’t going to blow up. You being a fire starter I think your risk rate would be around a 5 or something, but the others would know if you want all the details better. Maybe talk with them on netural ground here them out and then decide how you feel.” I say.

“whats the most dangerous risk level?” he asks me.

“10.” I say.

“and useful?” he asks.

“10.” I say.

“what are your levels?” he asks.

“I’m a risk level 3.” I admit.

“that’s not bad.” He says. I nod. I think about it.

“there’s a party at the weekend. Kids our age. maybe you three should come you don’t have to tell anyone anything that your not fractioned. Maybe come meet other kids like us? Get to meet normal everyday kids and not just the officials the fractions send.” I suggest.

“I will talk to the guys about it.” He says.

“well I can drive the three of you no issues.” I say.

“why are you adamant its just the three of us?” he asks me.

“like I said you set of a beacon that I would be thick not to see.” I say.

“then you cant have come across the others yet.” He says thoughtful.

“Others?” I ask.

“How many exactly are there?” I ask interested. He looks at me suspicious.

“Well why don’t I just show who ever wants to come the party so you can see we aren’t your enermy.” I say.

“let me know by Friday. Shouldn’t we like be getting to class or to see my dad so he don’t flip out?” I say. He sighs.

“what have you even got?” he asks. I pull out my schedule.

“Algebra two. Yeah lets stay in here.” I say. he laughs.

“Do you have any questions for me. I got some I'm interested about you. but there nosy and personal. So normally id say we could play a game and every question we don’t want to answer we take a shot for. But got no sambuca in here.” I say. he gives me another look, but hes smiling.

“Alright I’ll play.” He says.

“Will you get in trouble with your dad for ditching class?” he asks me.

“Not really, he hasn’t so much as told me off for anything since mom got sick.” I admit.

“Sorry for your loss.” He says again.

“Will you get in trouble with your teachers?” I ask him.

“No. they have been scared of us a while.” He admits.

“what did you do?” I ask.

“not your turn, but I will answer. We are considered from the wrong side of town even though we are the school jocks and on there sport teams they still are weird. we suspects its our powers. They don’t know we got them but they can sense we are more powerful than them.” he says.

“yeah could be. Glad to know you haven’t attacked someone though.” I say thinking about it.

“you really thought we would?” he asks me taken aback.

“weve gone into loads of situations. Mom even went into a Juvi once because there was a kid who was accused of robbing a bank. He did but. Yeah. I’ve seen a lot. Like I said dad wasn’t sure on bringing me with him this time. which made me think you lot were more a risk level than it appears you are. could be him just going over protective since mom. to be honest it most likely is.” I admit. He looks at me a strange look on his face.

“So you said you have your own schools. Why haven’t you been sent to one of those?” he asks me.

“the truth behind that is mom and dad. They wanted me with them. mom used to say they didn’t have a kid just to chuck them off to school. I have attended a few years. Like last year I just went to one of our schools as a day kid and dad taught there. as they were more flexible whilst mom was seeing the doctors.” I say.

“So personal, but foster kid, single parent from a one night thing? Or one of the unique ones that pops up every so many generations? When both there parents are decended from us and some how the genes sparked?” I ask interested. He blinks at me.

“me and Ross I suspect our your odd spark ones.” He says. I nod.

“Leon?” I ask.

“not your turn.” He says.

“what was your dad?” he asks me.

“Dad was a foster kid, but yeah was from a one night thing. I’ve never meet those grandparents, but I know it wasn’t easy for him at all. But its one reason he will never give up on any of his students and he doesn’t believe in a lost cause, he just believes the method of learning is wrong for them” I admit.

“he actully sounds an okay guy.” He says.

“he is.” I assure him.

“Leon?” I ask.

“Ask him.” He says.

“In case you don’t realise he took an instant dislike to me.” I say.

“Yeah well weve seen your kind come in way to many times and try interfere with our shit.” He says.

“I get it we aren’t an easy people to deal with. Which is why I really think you should all come meet the everyday people. We are just the same as normal kids. Except the extra parts.” I shrug.

“So where exactly are your schools based?” he asks me interested.

“that is kind of complicated. Advanced people with advanced technology.” I say trying to think how to explain it.

“So what Atlantis isn’t under water then.” He laughs.

“Maybe I can show you Alantis, it would have to be on a school break, as no point in just going for a day trip. Think going Disneyland you wouldn’t be able to drive there do the day and all the fun things there and then drive back here in one day.” I say. he blinks at me.

“are you actully being serious?” he asks me.

“yeah, we have towns here that are just blended to look normal on the surface and humans just get a funny feeling and walk away from.” I say.

“it’s so hard to explain really as to me its normal. Its all I’ve known. Let me think how to explain it.” I say.

“Okay some of the towns think gated communitys but once your in the gate its not like out in the rest of the world.” I say thinking about it.

“Then others think more sciencifiction than magic.” I say thinking about it.

“More alien civilization with force fields. Kind of set up like Dubai or Tomorrowland type places” I say. he doesn’t seem to know what to say to that.

“we have one close enough that you can take us to a party?” he asks me in disbelief.

“Yeah to a gated community type one if we set off Friday evening, party Saturday, come home Sunday. It be no issue. Long as your parents let you.” I shrug.

“I will talk to the guys about it. Your dad just lets you?” he asks me.

“Yeah.” I say shrugging.

“he will let you take us to one of your peoples hidden towns?” he asks me.

“my dads more likely to freak that your all guys than me taking you.” I shrug.

“so yeah its no issue. Because I'm not telling him.” I shrug.

“Why would you do this?” he asks me.

“because even if you don’t want anything to do with the fractions you should see what we really are like. I hate to think you guys hate our people for the sake of some sucky officials.” I say.

“Alright I will talk to the guys about it. doesn’t mean it’s a done deal.” He says.

“I get it.” I assure him.

“just let me know by Friday morning.” I tell him.

“Alright.” He says. he pulls his phone out his bag. I watch him.

“they are worried you’ve killed me and stuffed my body somewhere.” He shrugs as if that answers it.

“don’t flatter yourself.” I assure him. I look at my own phone and I have another message from unknown.

Unknown – Stay away from the others or you'll regret it.

Rolling my eyes I put my phone back in my pocket.

“You do realise that things like this will just make the fractions not trust you guys.” I say indicating my phone.

“it isn’t us.” He says seriously.

“yeah what ever.” I say.

“I have been in town less than 27 hours and driving to school todays the first time out the house since I got here.” I say.

“so some unknown persons managed to not just find out what I am, but also find my unlisted number.” I roll my eyes.

“Tati I promise you its none of us.” He says.

“but if you don’t believe me that’s fine as I don’t trust you either.” He shrugs.

“So say if we were up to coming with you. how easy would it be us to follow you in our car?” he asks me.

“imposible.” I admit.

“how many of us can you take?” he asks.

“how many of you are there?” I can fit four of you in my car okay. Maybe five if someone sits on someone’s lap.” I say.

“well there's five of us. So someone will either not have to come, or.” He starts.

“Youll all have to squish in my car. Its up to you guys. Let me know Friday. I can sort someone bringing one of you back or a few of you back. But I can’t let you take my car without me. because you may have a driving licence but trust me my cars a bit complicated.” I say.

“how long until lunch?” I ask, wanting to eat already.

“30 miniutes.” He shrugs.

“this is a long hour.” I say.

“yeah trust me being trapped in the closet with my power feeling weird from being close to you isn’t my idea of fun either. Why do I get that with you but not the guys?” He questions.

“Yeah I don’t want to answer that question. But basically your power is sensing and reacting to mine currently. Alright easy way to explain and don’t think its flirting or even flattereing or anything stupid as its not and it means nothing.” I say firmly.

“imagine you’re a peacock and flashing me your feathers as if to tell me you’d be good in the sack.” I say. he starts coughing then instantly laughing.

“don’t its not funny its off putting.” I say. he looks at me but is shaking his head.

“Dude its not flattering I take it I'm just the only fraction girl your age you guys have met since puberty.” I say. he laughs more.

“so, what your saying is our powers are just trying to get us to fuck you?” he asks.

“exactly it aint flattering.” I say, looking away from him.

“some of the girls at the party might find it that way. Hell to be honest a lot of them would.” I say. hes still laughing.

“think of it as your powers litrely all trying to boast that you could take care of me. it aint flattering. Stop laughing its not.” I say. hes still laughing. I sit on the floor and put my head on my knees trying not to laugh myself.

“Just all get laid at the party and then it should hopefully stop. Your powers will find someone that it wants to gel with more than mine and it will stop with me.” I say.

“your really not interested in any of us even though apparently our powers want us to fuck?” he asks.

“its hard alright, because like I said my kind hasn’t fully kept up with the humans in some ways. A lot of our kind would litrely say that this proves that.” I start.

“you’re a lesbian?” he asks.

“bi.” I admit.

“but I’m in a relationship and its hard enough doing the long distance thing the last few years. and her parents wont acknowledge it they literally keep thrusting guys in front of her and telling her that she should take the spark and find the right guy and settle down. They aren’t even into different fractions they keep saying the fact she’s a Vinca which means she should be with a Vinca and as I’m Atlantean I’m not right for her at all.” I admit. I groan why did I even tell him that.

“its hard her parents are in there 180s and the worlds changed so much these last 180 years.” I say.

“Its really hard, she hasn’t really been up for meeting up the last year. Shes in uni and I get it its hard for her to get away and travel to America out of everywhere on a whim. Espically as im always traveling and never in the same place.” I say. I know im just making excuses for her. I needed her recently and she didn’t come. She litrelly only came for moms funeral and went two days later. It was the summer break and id just lost my mom but she couldn’t even come spend a week with me this summer.

“I just. its hard currently.” I groan into my knees.

“So you’ve got relationship issues.” He laughs.

“What about you, have you ever actually been attracted to a human? I know they have the same pieces technically than us. But don’t you feel like there's something missing with them?” I ask him. He sits down on the floor next to me.

“To be honest I've never felt it safe to get involved with a girl long term. I got to hide my power. So yeah quick sex at a party no issue few innocent dates. But I never really gone out for the whole relationship thing.” He admits.

“it is possible.” I assure him.

“there plenty of people from the fractions that marry and have long life's with humans. Hell its how blood dilates to get un fractioned and then when two unfractioned parents whos accestor could be even 10 back get together and something sparks its how we get situations like yours.” I say. he seems to think.

“That kind of makes sense. Its weird but no ones ever just explained it to us like this.” He admits.

“Yeah like I said you’ve just had the sucky officials.” I shrug into my knees.

“what does your dad think? You said about her parents but not yours.” He says.

“Dad tells me that I can be with and love who ever I want to. he says he will support me no matter what I decide I want to do with my life. Grandma says she loves me no matter what but I should not settle down yet.” I say.

“My friends say that I should call it quits most of them don’t like Athena. Especially with what's been happening the last few months.” I admit.

“what’s been happening?” he asks confused.

“my mom was really sick. She got sick and I kind of needed Athena just to be there if that makes sense.” I admit.

“And she weren’t?” he asks me.

“No she had something going on at home in Vince with her parents and then she had to get ready to go back to her uni dorms. So she didn’t have much time this summer. She came for a few days for moms funeral. But she says she will make it up to me when she can.” I say.

“but it don’t really make it up to you when you need her and she isn’t there when you do.” He says.

“that’s what Avril and Katya say that there are so many other girls or guys out there and I deserve better.” I say.

“dude why are we even talking our relationship issues.” I groan into my knees. He shrugs.

“just trying to work out if what you said about you guys just being like us is true.” He shrugs.

“I’m not going to say just trust me. because I get it why would you. all I'm saying is we aren’t here to hurt or interfere with your life's. Think of us as more here to protect you guys.” I say. he nods looking thoughtful.

“Dad will possibly come up with a reason to have all of you brought to the office within the next few weeks. To mostly introduce himself to you. show you he isn’t your enemy.” I tell him.

“I’m not going to tell you to stay away from any of the fractions as I don’t know for a fact what fraction your all from. But don’t trust undergrounds.” I tell him, he nods.

“trust me we know that.” He says seriously.

“How about if I give you some of my school books. You can read them all and see what we get taught in school. Then you can make your own opinions?” I say. he blinks.

“really?” he asks me.

“yeah but remember with History its not always impartial.” I say. he nods.

“Like my history books when I studied at the Vinca fraction school Vincas were more about them being in the rights than the books I studied when I was in the Naku school where they were the ones in the right.” I say.

“whilst in my school books it flat out says they were both being stupid.” I say. he shakes his head but he's smiling.

“The guys and I would love to read everything you can give us.” He says. I smile and nod.

“I will give them to you after school if you want to come get them. or I can bring them and give them to you after school tomorrow.” I say. he looks at me.

“your really different to the others we have met.” He says.

“Like I said all you’ve ever dealt with is Officials.” I say.

“So your dads an official isn’t he?” he questions.

“yeah and although I'm leaning towards doing the same job. Its not a done deal. Dad said I can do anything I want to that the world is fully open to me. but I don’t have a set thing I want to do. But I defiantly don’t like the idea of anyone being like Albie and feeling alone in this world. So yeah official but the same way mom and dad do by being teachers is the most likely for me. but at the same time I would love to teach younger kids.” I admit.

“what about your girlfriend what is she studying in university?” he asks me.

“Law.” I admit.

“and you don’t want to go into law?” he asks me. I shake my head no.

“No way politics is defiantly not for me.” I say.

“What about you what do you want to be?” I ask him. He seems to think.

“I don’t know.” He admits.

“that’s fair enough. No one would ever tell you what you have to do either. They just wont give you any cash for doing nothing.” I say.

“that’s fair enough.” He says thinking about it. My phone buzzes.

Mayven – why are you down as absent for your fourth period?

“And I’ve been caught skiving classes first day.” I groan.

“will you be in trouble?” he asks me.

“no.” I say.

Tati – I couldn’t face Algebra

Mayven – are you okay. Did you need anything sweetie. You love math.

“Now she's worried I'm having a break down.” I groan. He gives me a look.

Mayven – if your not ready to be at school yet Tati. No one would blame you.

Tati – I’m okay, I will make the rest of my classes. I just need a little moment.

Mayven – okay sweetie did you look at those links to respected grief councilors I sent you. you don’t have to if your not ready but I think you and your dad would benefit from seeing someone to talk to.

“great and now she's bringing up grief counciloring again.” I groan. As he reads the message over my shoulder.

Tati – I'm not ready to talk about it. Not with anyone.

He looks at the message over my shoulder.

Mayven – okay sweetie but we are here when or if you need us.

“So she's more than just your dads secretary?” he asks me.

“Mom hired her just after she found out she was sick. So she's been there throughout it all” I admit.

“Must have been really hard.” He says.

“it was, we think our longer lifespans mean we wont loose anyone for a long time. Mom had just felt unwell that day and went in to see if my little sister was okay as she hadn’t felt her move in a few hours and was worried.” I start. Why the hell am I telling him this.

“I’m not ready to talk about it.” I say a tear running down my face again.

“Sorry.” He says again looking at me.

“what's fun to do around here?” I ask him. He blinks at me.

“what?” he asks confused.

“well, I would normally swim every evening. But the house dad and I are renting for this year doesn’t have a pool. So what is there actually to do for kids our age around here?” I ask him interested.

“Um lots.” He says as if I've put him on the spot.

“well Dad prefers it if I stick to myself and just get on with my school work here and for my other classes. But if I tell you about partys can you do the same. Maybe even get me cheerleaders number?” I ask hopefully. He laughs again.

“I thought you were in a relationship and not going to cheat.” He says giving me a look.

“I am and I’m not nothing wrong with going for coffee with her. According to Athena its only cheating if I have sex with her. Its how she gets around the dates her parents make her go on. That shes not cheating on me because shes not sleeping with them. Cheerleader is the perfect girl to make her jealous.” I say. he gives me a look.

“Okay I got issues I know it.” I say. he nods.

“Why did you decide to pick on Jess theres loads of other girls here.” He says giving me a look.

“even lesbian girls, why pick on the straight girl.” He questions.

“because she wants to experiment.” I admit.

“you know that or you want that?” he asks me.

“bit of both.” I admit.

“Second power?” he asks me.

“I’m not a mind reader, but yeah if say I’m in a crowd of strangers and a bit worried I’m more open to thoughts sent my way than the average person and say if someone’s thinking something particular about me, like how good my ass looks in my jeans I’m wearing and how she wishes she was the one who pinched it. Yeah, I might get that.” I mumble. He laughs. Then seems to think.

“that must actually suck.” He says.

“I don’t hear that much and not often, but yeah you guys had me on edge and she slipped through.” I admit.

“I have a good mental shield normally. But its how I understand how Albie struggles as much as he does. I love the guy a really do but he struggles.” I admit.

“any of you?” I start. He shakes his head no.

“well you honestly might not have all your powers yet.” I say.

“what?” he asks in disbelief.

“yeah we don’t fully finish our puberty until around 25 so yeah you can develop powers and levels up until then. Sometimes theres the odd person whos later.” I say. he looks at me taken aback.

“I will give you biology and my changing body book to I think.” I say smiling at him.

“So history defiantly, Biology is a must, a puberty book also sounds like a must. Any other subjects you want?” he looks at me as if he really doesn’t know what to do with me.

“What other subjects do you have?” he asks me.

“This year? I’m studying Anthropology as one of my main subjects. School is taking this as experience.” I admit.

“What is that?” he asks me.

“the scientific study of humanity, human behavior, human biology, cultures, societies and linguistics, in both the present and past. Its so interesting.” I admit.

“It’s why I’m taking human history this year.” I tell him.

“World history but yeah I get it, your not human so to you something interesting and exotic to study is humans.” He says.

“exactly and if I want to work with humans it seems like an important skill to have. Dad told me it wasn’t worth it that doing psychology and human studies would have been better, so I took both those too.” I admit. He shakes his head at me.

“I take Astronomy as well. I know its silly. but its so interesting, especially to know what my ancestors believed.” I tell him.

“we have to take 2 math classes, so this year I’ve got Algebra 2 here so I went with advanced Algebra. then vigesimal arithmetic.” I say.

“What does that last one mean?” he asks me.

“Aztec’s math basically its fascinating. I want to learn the history of math next year but it’s a college program and dad wouldn’t sign of on it for me. but math is so fascinating” I tell him. He gives me a look that says if you say so.

“we don’t want your math books.” He tells me.

“if you say so.” I say smiling.

“I’m also doing physics here so advanced physics as well.” I say. he gives me a look.

“surely highschool doesn’t challenge you by the sound of it.” He says.

“it doesn’t but if I aged out of school early, it makes humans ask questions.” I admit.

“I do English classes here but I’ve actually fully passed that.” I admit.

“I also do Trig.” I admit. He shakes his head at me.

“I don’t even know if I should take you serious or not.” He says.

“oh and social studys here.” I admit. He shakes his head but hes smiling.

“I’m doing French here but im fluent.” I say. he laughs.

“im not sure what else Mayven registered for me. I stayed with grandma and told her and dad they could put me in anything they wanted as long as I could use the credits.” I say. he laughs.

“I think I'm just going to tell the guys your just weird.” He tells me. I shrug.

“Katya says the same thing. Avril would say my Atlantean is showing.” I say.

“They aren’t Atlanteans?” he asks. I shake my head no.

“I haven’t actully got any friends from my fraction. Except grandma and dad.” I say.

“according to the survey of the fractions we are one of the least out there and yeah not many my age.

“I’ve never met an Atlantean close to my age.” I admit. He laughs more.

“but you don’t think we are Atlantean?” he asks me.

“like I said dad would be able to test you to see which fractions you all are. But I dunno you really don’t feel like Atlantean.” I say.

“we could do just a one for fun, you know answer some basic questions and it then tells you which fraction your most likely to be. Its not scientific at all. But it’s a laugh.” I say.

“I think I know the sort of this your talking about like something on buzzfeed.” He says.

“exactly.” I say smiling.

“yep I’m just going to tell them your weird and not a threat.” He laughs.

“And cheerleaders number?” I ask hopeful. The bell rings.

“not happening.” He tells me. he climbs to his feet and offers me his hand.

“friends?” I ask him hopefully taking his hand.

“Not enemies.” He says, I shake his hand, he laughs as he pulls me to my feet.

“Your just helping prove the fact that you lot are weird.” He says. he opens the closet door and pulls me out. some laughter behind us. But he doesn’t seem to care.