#2 When the Moon Turns Red

Evie

For the rest of the weekend I had the strangest feeling that I was being watched, just like I did on Friday at the bus stop. It was even more unnerving now after my experience at the bonfire. I had no idea who that Noah guy thought he was, but it would be too soon if I ever saw him again.

Molly texted me all day Sunday, asking if I was alright. I ignored her most of the time. It was finally Monday and I couldn’t believe how relieved I felt to get back to campus and resume my normal schedule. I was definitely over having any sort of social life. For the next 18 months I planned on keeping my head down, getting my degree, and getting out of this town.

I was able to find my own way to the fine arts building this time. After my three back to back classes, I decided to grab a late lunch on campus before heading back home. I sat down at a table by myself and absentmindedly ate my salad while reading my text book.

“Hey!” Molly invaded my space. I sighed,

“Hello.” I answered plainly, hoping she would get the hint and leave me alone.

She did not.

“I was hoping I’d run into you today.” She said cheerfully. Why was this girl always so happy?

“Well you found me.” I grumbled.

“I’ve been worried about you. How are you doing?” She asked.

“I’m fine, Molly. It takes more than one idiot to freak me out.” I replied. Molly smirked,

“Good, good. You know, Noah’s really not that bad of a guy.” She shrugged. I looked up from my book,

“Why are you defending him to me?” I asked cautiously.

“I’ve known him my entire life, Sawyer and Noah are best friends.” She surprised me by admitting.

“They didn’t seem too friendly on Saturday.” I observed.

“They fight like brothers. Sawyer did something that pissed Noah off, it happens all the time.” It was concerning how normal Molly made a full out brawl seem. I worried about her home life.

“I have three brothers, that was not normal brother behavior.” I said, shaking my head.

“It is in our family.” She laughed.

“I think I’ll avoid any more interactions with your family, then.” I muttered. Molly’s smile disappeared and she suddenly seemed very concerned.

“I hope that’s not true.” She pouted.

“Except you, Molly, of course.” I added.

“Everyone really liked you, Evie, you should give them a second chance.” She argued.

“I only met two people.” I pointed out.

“Yeah, and they both really liked you.” She perked up.

“Listen, I’m not interested in meeting anyone. I just want to get my degree finished with as few interruptions as possible. Thank you for trying, but I’m not interested in going to any more parties.” I explained, closing my book and zipping up my backpack. I swung it over my shoulder and dumped my lunch in the trash can.

“I’m sorry about the party, Evie, I really am. Please don’t be mad.” She whined, running after me.

“I’m not mad.” I laughed at her.

“You seem mad.” She said.

“I’m just not one for socializing.” I sighed, heading towards the shuttle.

“You two really do make a good pair.” She mumbled under her breath.

“What?” I wasn’t sure I heard her correctly.

“Nothing, you just remind me of someone else. Do you have dinner plans?” She asked, changing the subject.

“Yes, take out on my couch.” I answer stubbornly.

“Let’s go out! I know a great spot…” I cut Molly off,

“No, Molly.”

“You mean, not tonight.” She argued.

“You’re not going to stop until I agree to something, are you?” I groaned. She shook her head,

“Nope!” She danced circles around me.

“Fine, Friday night.” I said just as the shuttle bus pulled up.

“It’s a date!” She agreed, giving me a hug from the side. I shook my head at her but couldn’t help myself from smiling, her happiness was contagious.

“I’ll see you later, Evie.” She grinned, skipping away. I climbed onto the bus and thought about what I had just gotten myself into.