Whispering Hills (1st 4 Chapters)

7/28/2019 Whispering Hills (1st 4 Chapters)

1/21

WHISPERING HILLS

Taryn Browning

Other Books by Taryn Browning:

Dark Beauty (Prequel Novella to the Seeker Series)

Dark Seeker (Seeker, #1)

Dark Return (Seeker, #2)

Emanare


2/21

Copyright 2012 by Taryn Browning

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof

may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever

without the express written permission of the publisher

except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

www.tarynbrowning.com

ISBN-10: 1470140179

ISBN-13: 9781470140175


3/21

CHAPTER 1

Im going to kill her.

Dread shot through my veins. I lost my balance. My back slammed into mylocker. The cool metal stung my bare shoulders and the grated slats dug into the

exposed skin above my fitted tank. I gasped, dropping my notebook onto the waxy

linoleum floor. The plastic binding bounced and settled to the ground with a hollow

slap!.

My heartbeat thudded in my ears. Clutching my sweater, I squeezed the soft

thin cotton until my nails punctured my palm.

Someone rushed by, snapping my focus up. His heavy footfalls pounded my

chest with fast hard blows. The boy slung his backpack over one shoulder and

skidded past a teacher through an open classroom door. A girl laughed. Still frozen

in place, my eyes shifted. She giggled once more and slid out of her boyfriendsembrace.

I stood, paralyzed, pressed firmly against my locker. Thatunfamiliar voice,

those words, the thought Im going to kill herheld me captive.

Life at Whispering Hills High went on around me.

For a long while, I didnt move. I replayed the words over and over again in my

mind. Finding my bearings, I drew out a long exhale, the stark fear finally releasing

me from its clutches. Peeling myself from the cold metal prison, I whispered, Who

are you?

Are you talking to me?

I spun to my right. The guy squeezed between two students studying between

classes.

Uh what? I stammered.

He eyed me, confused. I think you just asked who I was. He pointed. My

lockers next to yours.

Ohit was nothing, I dismissed. Forget I said anything. Sorry to bother you.

I turned to face my locker. Maybe then hed leave me alone. I concentrated, but the

combination escaped me.

He moved so close that I tasted his musky cologne. You okay? Sincerity in his

smooth voice.

I didnt look at him. If I did I might cry. IIm fine, I finally answered.

Are you sure? You seemed, I dont know, scared, he said.I lifted my head, focusing on his deep-set, dark eyes. Really, its nothing, I

assured him. Please, just let it go.

He reached out and I jumped, my heart lurching into my throat. I needed to get

a grip.

I think you dropped your notebook, he said, cautiously handing it back to me.


4/21

Ohthanks. Warmth consumed me and I drew in his scent a summer breeze

swirling around me, carrying the clean smell of soap mixed with the musky

fragrance of his cologne.

Im Chance, he said, running his hand over the long haphazard spikes of his

chocolate brown hair.

Alexis, I swallowed.I recognize you from Bio. Chance removed a textbook from the top shelf and

shut his locker.

The clang! of metal on metalricocheted through me, causing me to twist my

combination lock too far to the left. I cursed under my breath, focusing on the dial

again. 13-21-10,I repeated to myself, turning it slower this time. I lifted the lever

and prayed. This time, my locker opened.

Chance shifted his weight from one acid-washed leg to the other, sporting the

kind of tapered jeans youd find in a nineties pop video, only his were thinning and

frayed at the bottom, the faded blue cotton splaying out over his worn dark boots.

Nice picture, he said, focusing on a scrap of paper hanging by a single pieceof tape in my locker. Are you an artist? He pointed to a box of charcoal on my

shelf. The sleeve of his wrinkled Metallica tour shirt exposed the base of a dark

tattoo encircling his bicep. Did you draw it?

What, the butterfly? Only one wing remained, the body split along the

serrated edges of the torn paper. No. Its a childs drawing, and anyway, its

ripped. I exhaled. Im actually not sure where I got it.

It must mean something to you. I mean, if you kept it, he said, a familiar ardor

in his dark eyes.

Yeah, I guess. I focused on my sketchbook, wedged between a pack of colored

pencils and the brown paper bag holding my sandwich and an apple.He removed a crumpled piece of paper from his pocket and unfolded it. I think I

have Spanish. He studied the printout. First day and all, Im a little lost, he

explained.

Whos your teacher?

Um, I think Cruz? He checked his schedule again. Yup, Mr. Cruz.

Youre in luck. I pointed behind him. Just down the hall on your left. I have

Spanish fifth period. Youll like Cruz. Hes not real strict, I laughed. It felt good. The

release helped dispel some of my anxiety. Ohand if he starts in about his ex-wife,

dont worry the story wont last long. I think its his form of therapy or something.

Thanks. Good to know, he said, displaying a sparkling white smile. Twoadorable dimples formed at the base of his cheeks, contrasting the hardness of his

angular jaw and high cheekbones.

Hey, can I borrow your notes from Bio? He hesitated. II know its a little

forward, but Im weeks behind. I understand if you think its weird, me asking to

borrow your stuff, since we just met.

Removing the purple notebook from my shelf, I handed it to him. No. Its no

problem.


5/21

His fingers brushed my hand. My arm jerked and heat shot up to my heart. His

touch was like a shock of adrenaline.

Thanks, he said, examining the cover. Nice doodling. He cradled my

notebook under his muscular arm. Ill get it back to you tomorrow, if thats okay.

I nodded, still feeling very warm. He radiated a fiery energy, making me weak in

the knees and knocking the breath from my lungs. My palms started to sweat. Iloosened the grip on my sweater and draped it over my arm.

Tiffany skipped up next to me. Hey Alex, I see youve met Chance. Her ultra-

short cheerleading skirt swished and straightened out around her tiny, muscular

thighs.

Yes Tiff, I have. I didnt take my eyes off Chance. I knew I couldnt make him

reveal his thoughts just by willing him to, but for some reason, I tried anyway.

Nothing.

Id introduce you to my best friend, I said to him, but I take it you two

already met. I sighed inwardly, momentarily forgetting about my inability to hear

his next move. It would happen eventually. It always did.Yup, weve been acquainted. Tiffany smiled up at him. Its too bad he has a

girlfriend, though. She batted her lashes. Isnt that what you told me? she asked

him.

He switched his stance and readjusted the backpack over his shoulder. Uh

yeah, from back home. Its a long-distance thing, he stuttered, shifting his gaze

from Tiffany to me.

Those never work, Tiffany dismissed.

I exhaled and said, TiffI dont think thats any of your business.

She laughed teasingly. Well, if you need anything, you know

Thanks. Im good for now, Chance said.Tiffany looped her arm through mine. Ready for English?

More than you know, I answered. Chancenice to meet you. I shut my

locker, fighting to break our deadlocked stare. I still hadnt picked up anything

even something as mindless as putting his right foot first when he walked, or which

direction he intended to go. Absolutely no inner dialogue.

Likewise. He directed his attention down to my notebook. Tomorrow.

Tomorrow, I repeated.

As I walked away, a chill fell over me. I slid my sweater on, balancing my books

in the crook of my elbow. I drew the light gray cotton over each arm. Still cold, I

crossed the two sides over my chest and squeezed my notebook against me. Thetiny hairs along my arms rose. Why was I suddenly so cold?

During lunch, I stopped by the library to grab a book for my English assignment on

Hemingway. I perused the American authors section. The open courtyard door let

in a warm, end-of-summer breeze.

I left my lighter in my backpack. No ones around. Oh, whatever. Ill just do it.I

heard Summer Hillsboro thinking.


6/21

Stepping out into the courtyard, I spotted Summers Doc Martins resting on a

wooden bench. Id never mistake those fishnet stockings. She sat on top of a picnic

table, hidden behind a dumpster. I proceeded forward and rounded the tall metal

box. She had an unlit cigarette between her black nails. Her dark purple hair hid

most of her pale face, but I could still see the loop of her silver eyebrow ring and

part of her black-rimmed eyes. Her nose ring glistened in the sunlight.Summer stared at the cigarette in deep concentration. What was she waiting

for, lighting to strike?

Then it happened. Spontaneous combustion. One single flame rose from the tip.

The paper crumbled around the burnt tobacco and she exhaled triumphantly. The

cigarette lit itself.

Another terrifying thought sounded in my mindIm going to throw her dead

body in the lake.

I spun around, fearful Summer might be his target. Peeking back around the

dumpster, I crept forward and glanced behind a row of bushes. I scanned the

pathway, lined by patches of purple and yellow pansies, to another courtyardentrance. No one lurked. We seemed to be alone.

The same menacing coolness from earlier rippled through me. My heart

pulsated in my ribcage like a trapped bird. Goosebumps bubbled up on my arms.

Im going to throw her dead body in the lake.

I exhaled. Summer wasnt his target.


7/21

CHAPTER 2

I shut my front door and dropped my backpack onto the maple floor. The smell of

freshly baked apple pies swirled through the air. A sprinkle of cinnamon tickled my

nose along with the sweet fragrance of spiced apples. I crossed the open foyer. Mymother breezed by the opening to the kitchen, her Bluetooth in her ear, oblivious to

my presence.

Snagging the string of her apron from behind, I loosened the perfectly tied bow.

Startled, she spun around, glaring at me. I snapped a piece of crust off a pie and

popped it in my mouth. My mother frowned, waved me out of the kitchen with an

insistent hand, and carried on with her conversation.

I scooped my backpack off the floor, and started up the steps, eager to speak

with my sister.

After telling Brooke about the horrible voice Id heard at school, I paced the

floor, from her dresser and back again, wearing a perfect line in the carpet.I tripped over a pile of community college textbooks at the base of her desk.

Im going to the lake. I wasnt sure if I was justifying my actions out loud, or just

forcing myself to do somethinganythingto locate the girl.

For what? Theres nothing you can do. She shot in front of me, blocking my

path. Youve got to calm down before Mom hears you.

Trust me, she wont. Shes too wrapped up in the bake sale and the October

Festival to care. I attempted to push by her, but she had me by at least twenty

pounds and four inches. At five-foot-two, I wasnt much of a match. Move out of my

way. If I cant tell the cops, the least I can do is check it out. Its a big lake. Ill be

fine.

Seriously, Alex, you have no idea if a murder actually occurred. So you heard

it. It could have been hypothetical. You know, a guy whos pissed off at his

girlfriend.

I stared at her, gazing into my own light brown eyes. People always said we

looked similar, only Brookes curly auburn hair settled around her shoulders. Mine

streamed clear down my back and refused to hold an ounce of curl.

Okay, fine. Youre never wrong. Brooke stepped away from the door. Go.

Youre not going to listen to me anyway.

I knew you were going to move. You made the decision before you said it. I

smiled victoriously.

Save it, she laughed, smiling tightly. You and your telepathic mumbo jumbo

suck. She placed her arm out to block me again. Why dont you just probe the

minds of every student at school? Someones bound to confess.

I guess its a mental glitch in my psychic radar, I replied. But I cant just

probe them like aliens. You know I cant eavesdrop at will.


8/21

Her eyes lit up. But wouldnt that be awesome? she grinned, no doubt plotting

how shed use the ability to read her college professors minds, or the minds of guys

she had interest in.

Even though she couldnt fully understand my ability, she loved and accepted

me anyway. She did her best to support me when the voices became too

overwhelming, but many times she treated my telepathy as something humorous orfantastic both of which, it was not. Brooke joked because she didnt fully

understand how burdensome it was too literally hear other peoples decisions. As I

had discovered today at school, the thoughts werent always pretty.

I envied how carefree Brookes life had been. In high school shed played sports

and dated multiple guys. I guess in a way, Id lived through her. Only a year older

than me, we grew up best friends. No one knew me better than my sister.

Thanks for keeping my secret, I said to her, clearing the lump in my throat.

No one else would understand. I exhaled. And Mom

Dont even go there. Moms all wrapped up in her own little world. Brooke

looped an arm over my shoulder.I shrugged. Yeah, what would the small town of Whispering Hills think about

the social chairs daughter being a head case. Mom would rather send me to Siberia

and lock me up in an institution before tarnishing her good name. Im alone. What

else is new?

Brooke dropped her arm and spoke sharply, her freckled face only inches from

mine. Alexis, you are notalone. Her hard gaze softened. Youve got me, always.

And your secrets safe with me.

I smiled. I know. Thanks. I hoped she didnt sense the sadness in my tone. I

think Ill go paint. Take my mind off today.

I spent the afternoon with a brush, canvas and paints. A singular activity where I

didnt have to hear anyones thoughts but my own. I remembered trying

cheerleading with Tiffany in middle school. I found the information overload

maddening and quit the next day. After that, I swore off all extracurricular activities.

It was bad enough I had to endure everyones thoughts in school. Painting brought

me joy and purpose in a world where I felt so different.

Mixing brown with yellow, I attempted to match the color of the thick tree trunks

clustered on an island of grass in the center of the town square. No matter how

many combinations I tried, I couldnt get the shade right. I switched my focus to the

1800's row homes surrounding the trees, housing local businesses owned bygenerations of town residents. With every brush stroke my hand jerked. The angles

came out all wrong.

The historic town square, surrounded by residential neighborhoods and family-

owned farms, contained most of the towns staples a 7-11, grocery store,

hardware store, pharmacy, bakery, ice cream shop, library, drycleaners, and other

small-town businesses.


9/21

I thought about the old Victorian mansions surrounding the lake. Their triangular

peaks, rounded bay windows and leveled porches lined by thick white trim gave

them the resemblance of large 19th century Gingerbread houses. Id much rather

be painting those, I huffed.

I knew the problem. My mind was elsewhere.

I smeared the mess of warm colors around on the canvas until the ugliest shadeof brown appeared, and left.

Driving into the parking lot at Whispering Lake, I rolled my eyes at the large

sign marking the entrance. Everything in the town was Whispering something

Whispering Library, Whispering Ball Field, Whispering Park. It sounded like a

cemetery or a town full of secrets which, in fact, it was. Something I wished I

didnt know.

I parked next to the beach, where students liked to hang out. During the

summer, local girls in bikinis lay in the sun while guys with wannabe-beach-bods

played football.

The cloudless blue sky arched around the lake, creating ripples of mirroringsunlight over the water. I walked along the shore, the damp sand crunching under

my flip-flops. I breathed in deeply as the sun warmed my skin. Considering the

reason Id come, it was peaceful. I didnt often find peace, so when I did, I let myself

totally absorb the calm.

There werent many people around, which dulled the noise in my mind. It would

undoubtedly become more crowded when sports practices let out.

I recognized a couple sitting on a beach towel. Every day I squeezed by them

while they made out before Spanish. Just like in school, they were too wrapped up in

each other to notice me walk by. Not that I could say anything about their in-your-

face PDA. At least they had each other. I only had me, myself, and I.Gazing out over the still water, I thought about the last words Id heard him say

Im going to throw her dead body in the lake.

Other than a pontoon boat and a kayak, I didnt notice anything out of the

ordinary. Not that I expected a dead body to floatby. Brooke was right. I couldnt do

anything. I had to let it go.

I decided to leave the apparent tranquility of the lake. Even if a girl were lying

at the bottom of it, no one would believe me. They werent going to drag the lake

for a body or whatever they did on CSI based on a thought I had heard.

I turned to head back and collided with Chance. Oh, sorry, I didnt see you.

He drew his arm across his forehead, soaking up the beads of sweat with thesleeve of his tee. Sweat soaked his chest and his hair lay damp, making it appear

even darker, almost black.

He removed his ear buds. My bad. I was changing the song on my iPod. Not

paying attention. He smiled. Are you okay?

Yeah, Im cool, I said. I guess you found the lake.

He pointed to a large house across the street. See the cream house with blue

and white trim? Thats mine.


10/21

An old Victorian mansion peeked through a row of mature pines. I fought to

keep my jaw from dropping. Wow. Youve got a nice view of the lake.

My uncle wanted lakefront, but this one was available, he said through heavy

breaths.

Do you come here often? Ive noticed a lot of kids from school hang out here

after practice. Tiffany and others I dont know. But I havent seen you. He paused.Id remember.

My cheeks flushed. I hang out. I mean, I dont play sports and Im not in any

clubs. Im usually at home painting. I just come here to clear my head once in a

while. I caught my breath. But its been a few weeks. Ive been a little consumed

working on an art piece for my mom.

Maybe someday youll paint a picture of me. Maybe even a charcoal sketch.

I started to answer, but noticed a strange sound coming from his mind. Not

English, or even a different language, at least not one Id heard before, more like

the garbled white noise of TV static.

He touched my arm softly, sending a shock of electric current surging throughmy veins.

So, Ill expect to see you around. His iPod slipped from its armband and fell

into the sand. He leaned over to pick it up and brushed the granules from the

plastic case.

I should go back to my car,I thought.

He stood up. Dont go back to your car.

I gasped, wondering if Id spoken out loud.

He hesitated. I didnt mean to assume. It just looked like you were leaving. He

looked over to my red Mustang. You were heading in the direction of your car when

I ran into you. Sorry if I assumed incorrectly.Ohits okay. Im just a little jumpy. Youll have to excuse my freak-show

behavior; Im looking for a dead girl.

Interesting, he said.

That Im jumpy? An image of a winding country road lined with trees flooded

my mind. Anxiety filled my body and a bone-chilling terror overtook me. I stiffened,

sucking in a mouthful of moist lake air and coughed.

NNo, he said, snapping me out of my dj vu moment.

I focused on his soft lips.

What I meant was, Im a little jumpy too, he continued. I havent met very

many people Id want to hang out with since we moved.A speck of sunlight glistened off his muscular neck, catching my attention. A

symbol of a heart with a triangle through it dangled off a thin gold chain. What

does it mean? I asked, motioning.

He glanced down. My chain? He held the symbol between two fingers. Its a

heartagram. It represents the blending of opposites. Like love and hate, life and

death.


11/21

Hmmit looks very old. You might want to take it off when youre running. If it

falls off in the sand, youll never find it.

He tucked the necklace under his sweat-soaked tee and smiled. Thanks for the

advice.

Where exactly did you say you moved from?

I didnt say. He looked away.Is it a secret? I laughed uneasily.

He slid his iPod into its armband. California, he said and placed the ear buds

back in his ears. I should probably get going. Ive got Bio notes to copy.

Oh, sure. I fidgeted with the zipper of my hoodie. Ill see you tomorrow,

then.

Without another word, he turned and jogged off in the direction of his house.

Home from the lake, I peeked in on Brooke, stretched across her bed, eating

chocolate and watching reruns ofAmericas Top Model. I joined her.

Did you find anything? A serial killer, or a floating corpse? She offered me abite of her Hershey bar. I knew my sister well enough to know her humor only hid

her concern.

I exhaled loudly and crossed my legs on her bed.

Come on, Brooke enticed, nudging me. Chocolate fixes everything. I can eat

a whole container of Brownie Sundae ice cream when Im depressed. Whats

wrong?

I broke a piece off the Hershey bar. Theres this new guy.

Brooke scooted up next to me. Is he hot? Her eyes sparkled with curiosity.

Any thoughts of floating corpses had been completely overshadowed by the

prospect of me having interest in a boy.Yes, but thats not why Im intrigued. Well, maybe I was a little, but

Intrigued? Her eyes widened. Whens the last time you actually went out on

a date? She laughed. Oh, yeah, last year. That jerk who tried to grope you. Good

thing you heard his thoughts. It gave you time to hit him over the head with his

football helmet. She took a moment to relive the scene, snickering one last time

and continued, So tell me about this new guy.

I saw him at the lake. He lives there with his uncle. I watched a seven-foot-

tall, emaciated girl on TV get berated by Tyra Banks and frowned at Brooke. You

actually watch this stuff.

She dismissed my comment. Okay, so whats so intriguing about him? Does hehave eleven toes or something? She laughed again.

No. I havent seen his toes. He was wearing running shoes. I returned her

laugh and then became serious. I think he can hear me. I shoved the piece of

chocolate into my mouth. He knew what I was going to do before I did it, I

garbled, chewing the sugary goodness.

Well, its not like youre not predictable. Besides, Im pretty certain theres no

one else like you. People dont just go around reading other peoples minds.


12/21

Brooke stopped then and laid her hand on my leg. Hey, youre starting to scare

me. Tell me, whats his name?

CChance Whitefield, I said, gulping for air. I wiped my palms across my

jeans.

Huh, Whitefield. She sank into thought. Ive heard that name before. Are you

sure he just moved here?Thats what he said, why?

Brooke tapped her lips with her finger. Where have I seen that name before?

She sat up. Wait, I remember. Moms planner. She has a list of everyone whos

ever lived in Whispering Hills. You know, so she makes sure to be politically correct

and invite everyone to the towns lame events. Brooke rolled her eyes. Shed hate

to be branded the town social chair who screwed up.

Brooke jumped off the bed and grabbed the remote. Her curly auburn ponytail

bounced as she skipped over to her closet.

Those girls need to eat. She shut off the TV and opened her closet door,

admiring her extensive shoe rack. I have a date with Knox tonight. I think Ill breakout the red ones. Its the third date. Ive made him wait long enough.

I stood to leave. Have a good time.

So, tell me. Brooke removed a red tank from her closet and flashed it for me

to see. You met him yesterday. What does Knox think about me?

Hello, no eavesdropping, I reminded her.

Brooke eyed me.

Really, Id tell you. I didnt hear anything juicy. I laughed. He did say he had

to pee. I dont think he wanted to do it in our house. He planned to do it when you

got to the billiard hall.

Aw, Alex, I didnt want to know that. She paused in thought. Although, he diddrive awfully fast. He had to pee? And whats wrong with our house? Really?

Anyway She reached back into her closet and held out a black and white dress.

How about this?

I pointed to the red tank and headed for the door.

Brooke called to me. Id check Moms planner. Its the size of a phone book.

Shes probably got fifty years worth of names in there. But I swear, Ive seen that

nameWhitefieldbefore.


13/21

CHAPTER 3

Chance glanced at the torn piece of paper wedged into the wooden edging of his

bedroom mirror. He could imagine the missing half the vibrant reds, purples and

blues of the butterflys wing. He touched a symmetrical black dot, imagining theday hed taken the drawing. It felt like just yesterday. In reality, so many years had

passed.

Hed sworn to never return. Hed moved on with his life. There was nothing left

for him in Whispering Hills. Until now.

His Def Leopard ringtone started to play. Chance plucked his iPhone off the bed.

Only two people had his number. And from the banging downstairs, hed ruled out

one person.

Chance didnt answer. He threw the phone on his plaid comforter and exited his

room. He descended down the Victorians spiral staircase drawing a line in the dust-

coated banister with his forefinger. As he stepped onto the Persian rug, a puff of dirtcoated his black boots.

He entered the living room. Uncle Steven stood on an extension ladder

hammering a nail into the wall. From the looks of the wall, and the ceaseless

pounding hed heard from his room, Chance doubted his uncle had hung many

pictures in his lifetime.

Youre done showering already? He hammered another nail into the wall. I

forgot to ask youhow was your run? Lakes pretty this time of year. Uncle Steven

attempted to take a step down, wobbling on the ladder. Mind handing me that

clock. He pointed to a mahogany table covered in a dusty white sheet. I thought

this house could use something more modern. I ordered it from this place called

Pottery Barn. I dont know. Your aunt always did this stuff. I dont know why the

damn woman left me.

Chance shook his head. Wonder why. He crossed the room. Youd better be

careful up there. I know how you are with heights and youre no spring chicken.

Hahow was school today? Did you settle in okay? Uncle Steven reached

down to grab the clock from Chances extended arm and climbed back up the

ladder one handed.

Its different. Things have changed. Chance stood at the base and secured the

ladder as a precaution.

Did you see her? Uncle Steven said, hanging the clock on the nail.

Chance watched as his uncle lean back to admire his handy work. She looks

different.

Uncle Steven spoke as he climbed down the ladder. Did you expect anything

else?

Getting to know her is going to be harder than I thought.


14/21

Chances uncle stepped off the ladder and laid his hand on his shoulder. Well,

yeah, especially wearing those jeans. Im ancient and I even know acid wash is out.

Thank goodness that hairstyle of yours has come back around again.

What, theyre just jeans. And whats wrong with my hair? Chance touched the

tips of his long, spiky do. He exhaled. I get it. Ill get new jeans.

His uncle reached into his Dockers and brandished a wad of bills. I neverbelieved in using a wallet. It makes it easier for people to steal your money. Thats

why Im wealthy. He picked up Chances hand and stuffed the cash into his palm.

And get yourself some shirts while youre at it. He glanced up at the clock. That

was hard work. I need a drink.

Chance nodded. Thanks Uncle Steven, for everything.

Youre like my son, Chance. The slender, balding man walked over to the wet

bar, choosing a bottle of 1977 Merlot. Now about that girl, youre going to have to

get close to her if you have any chance of succeeding.

Thats my plan. Chance paced, replaying their encounters. I think shes

scared of me.Well, thats not going to work. Uncle Steven rinsed out a wine glass, shaking

the excess water into the sink. He popped the cork and poured the burgundy liquid

into the glass with care. After swishing the wine around, gently holding the delicate

stem, he stuck his nose in the glass. Mmm, perfect. He drew a sip. Ahnow that

is good wine. He corked the bottle and placed it on the bar. Tell me, why would

she be scared of you? And please dont tell me you told her about your Gigapet. I

hated that thing.

Chance frowned. I was eleven. And you wouldnt let me have a dog. I had to

turn to technology for a pet. Chance approached the bar and rested his hands on

the cherry wood. Im serious. She was jumpy, uncomfortable with me. I dont knowwhat to do.

You need game. Uncle Steven referred to a photo, encased in a gold frame,

hanging on the wall. Thats how I got your aunt to fall for me.

Do you actually have any useful advice for me? Chance left the bar to close

up the ladder before it fell and crushed the antique furniture.

Uncle Steven laughed. Yeah, dont tell her the truth. Thats how I lost my

Lucy.

Chance shook his head and collapsed the ladder. You had an affair with your

secretary.

Bingo. I should have never told Lucy the truth. He twirled his diamond-coatedwedding band and shook his head, staring at his ex-wifes photo. Then she

couldve hung the damn clock.

Chance laid the ladder across the floor. Not to change the subject or anything,

but do you think Alexis will warm up to me, like in the next millennium?

Well, I certainly hope so. We dont have that kind of time. Uncle Steven

lounged on his chaise and grabbed the newspaper off the side table.


15/21

And anyway, Chance said, turning to leave. Ive been around. Im not totally

in the dark ages when it comes to fashion and pop culture. I just never really found

the need to stay updated.

His uncle shrugged, opening the paper to the finance section. Yeah, keep

telling yourself that, son.


16/21

CHAPTER 4

Nothing like overhearing the same mantra; endless choices of sodas, hamburgers,

fries, and candy bars in the school cafeterias lunch line. People rarely thought

about taking the fruit, veggies, or the daily green mystery sludge.Today, the girl in front of me piled macaroni and cheese onto her plate, feeling

guilty with every scoop. Shed apparently told herself shed eat only salad until the

October Festival dance. Something about a guy and fitting into a dress that was a

size too small. I did my best to ignore her rambling. It was a simple decisionlunch.

Did everything have to be so full of drama?

I slid into a booth opposite Tiffany. Her long, curly blonde hair spilled forward as

she thumbed the keys on her Blackberry. Im going to text him. Hes got to be

lonely. I mean, hes new and all. Who better than me to make him feel welcome?

I tapped her arm. Who are you texting? I already knew the answer.

The new guy. Tiffany smirked and bit her lower lip, finishing her text. Shespelled her nickname aloud as she typedT-i-f-f. She grinned and pushed send.

I removed an apple from my tray. Howd you get his number?

I have my ways. My dad is the police chief. She set her phone down, picked up

her fork, and stabbed a tomato, seeming very confident he would reply.

Tiffhes already got a girlfriend.

Not for long. She laughed.

And what about your boyfriend, Liam, remember?

I broke up with him. She drizzled more low-fat Ranch dressing on her salad.

What about the dance? I thought you two were going together, I said.

Whats with all the Q and A? She glanced down at her Blackberry, even

though it hadnt vibrated or beeped. I saw the new guy in the hallway before lunch.

He was heading this way.

You know, he does have a name. I wiped off my apple with a napkin.

I know. Its Chance. Tiffanys eyes shot up, staring past me at someone

standing behind me.

Hey, he said, before I could turn around.

His hand grazed my shoulder, sending sparks zinging through my body. I

focused on my feet to make sure I was still grounded. I looked up, confirming my

feelings yup, Chance.

Tiffany leaned over and snatched his hand. In one swift motion, she yanked him

around the table and into the seat next to her. Hey, yourself. Did you get my text?

He retrieved his phone from his backpack. I must have my phone off. Sorry.

Uh, how did you get my number?

She laced her arm through his. Youre here now. Thats all that matters and,

whats up with your shirt?

Chance looked down, exhaling nervously. WWhat, you havent heard the

saying, Hasta La Vista Baby!?


17/21

Its from The Terminator, I answered.

Youre right. He glanced up, smiling.

It was only one of the best movies of all time, I continued. Im kind of into

things that arent from my generation. I wondered if he found a slender throwback

artist any bit appealing, or if he only went for the athletic cheerleading types.

Tiffany ran her fingers up his arm, attempting to elicit his attention. Uh, notreally caring about some French saying on your shirt even if its old. She pointed.

I was referring to the wrinkles. Did you like roll around in something before you

came to school?

"Its not French, itsnever mind, I let it go. Evidently, so did Chance, judging

from his tight lips.

Youre new and all, so you dont know whats happening this weekend, Tiffany

continued.

He politely directed his attention to her as she spoke.

The first week in October, our town has this thing called the October Festival.

All of the old folks get together and do something, Im not sure what. She flung herfree hand around dismissively. As if I care. Anyway, theres a dance in the

Whispering Hotel ballroom. Her voice lowered. And it just so happens, I dont have

a date.

Chance turned his attention to me just as I bit into my apple. Are you going?

I choked. Me? and finished chewing. Probably not. Im dateless. I sounded

totally lame, so I did the only thing I could think of. I shoved the apple back into my

mouth.

Tiffany redirected his attention, placing her hand on his cheek. Id like to go,

and you dont really know anyone. We could go together.

As curious as I was to know Chances answer, I noticed Summer sitting alone atthe far table. Brittany had just dumped her entire Coke onto Summers plate. A

spoon on Summers table swirled around in fast, blurry circles with no sign of

slowing. I stared in disbelief. No one touched it and the momentum only intensified.

Summer wasnt even paying attention to the spinning utensil. Too busy seething at

the volleyball player who had just ruined her lunch.

Ill get her back. All of them, just wait. Summers head shot up. She squinted

her smoky eyes, causing me to quickly look away.

Alexis, is everything okay? Chance unhitched his arm from Tiffanys and

placed his hand on mine. I jumped, startled by how warm his skin felt.

My eyes nervously flicked up to his. UhIm fine. Did I miss something?Tiffany crossed her arms in front of her chest and scowled at me. Her gaze

repeatedly switched from our hands to my face.

Chance removed his hand. I have something for you. I swallowed back my

uneasiness. What could he possibly have for me?

He reached into his bag and pulled out my Bio notebook. Thanks for letting me

borrow it.


18/21

I took it back and placed it on the table, letting my heart find its proper place in

my chest. Duh, what did I expect, roses?Im glad I could help, I said.

Im sure you are, Tiffany grunted. She picked up her fork and poked at her

salad greens.

Now I really wondered what Chance had said to her. One of those times I wished

I could snoop into peoples thoughts.I sucked in a breath and gripped my Bio notebook so tightly the paper crumbled

in my fistSoon her parents will realize shes missing. They may already suspect.

Not that it matters. No one can touch me. Ill find what she took from me, he

thought.

He was one confident SOB. I jumped to my feet and scanned the room. But no

one stood out as being a killer. Not that I considered myself an expert profiler, and

the cafeteria was packed, like trying to find Waldo, minus the red and white scarf.

A flood of other thoughts invaded my mindIm heading to class to take the

hardest test of my life. I could fall asleep right here after staying up all night

studying; Im finishing this cupcake, screw the calories; Im sneaking out to thecourtyard for a smoke before class; Im attending that party tonight no matter

what my parents say; I need to cut myself so I dont feel the pain any longer.

I threw my hands up to my ears. Covering my ears didnt stop the noise, only a

futile reflex. A pit formed in my stomach, and my head started to spin.

Lightheadedness set in. I could see Tiffany and Chances concerned faces. Their lips

moved, but I had no idea what they said over the incessant chattering in my mind.

I gotta go, was all I managed to get out. I grabbed my notebook and backpack

and fled through the cafeteria door, leaving my lunch only partially eaten.

I retreated to the serenity of the courtyard. Stepping out onto the stone pavers, thestagnant smell of the brick buildings stale, recycled air was replaced by the fresh

scent of turning foliage, blooming mums, pansies, and the faded mulch bedding the

outdoor garden. With each step forward, the suns rays surrounded me, the thick

branches of the old oak no longer providing me with shade.

Summer sat on the same picnic table smoking a cigarette. Her Doc Martins

rested on the seat. Instead of fishnets, she had on a pair of black tights ripped at

the knees. Her tight black T-shirt said, Dont F*!# with me! I guessed students

could wear profanity to school as long as the word wasnt actually spelled out.

Either that or no one noticed Summers attire, or cared.

Last puff or Ill be late to stupid Algebra, where Ill undoubtedly be picked on,and all for learning something Ill never use anywayman, school sucks. Summer

threw the butt onto the ground and dismounted from the table. She squished the

cigarette under her boot and looked up. She sighed, noticing me standing in front of

her, staring. She plucked the flattened butt off the ground and disposed of it in the

dumpster.

What do you want? Summer rolled her tongue ring around in her mouth. Are

you like obsessed with me or something? How did you find me anyway? She looked


19/21

over at the dumpster blocking the view of her and her smoking habit. The school

frowned upon students smoking. Immediate suspension was the penalty. Not that

Summer appeared to care. At least she did her best to hide it.

I lowered my shoulders, still pinned up next to my ears after the influx of voices

in the lunchroom. It was nice to hear only Summers voice. Im sorry it looks like

Im always staring at you. I justHear my thoughts, Summer finished. Can you hear what Im thinking right

now? From the scowl on her face, I figured nothing positive. Not that I expected

anything else.

It doesnt work that way. I covered my mouth with my hand. I only trusted

Brooke with my ability. I certainly wasnt going to tell the school Goth I could hear

peoples thoughts.

You can remove your hand. Summer relaxed her stance. Youre like me.

Youre different. I already know.

How are you different? I appraised her outfit. Other than the obvious.

Summer climbed back on the table. Thats not something Im about to sharewith you.

Then, I did the strangest thing. I blurted out my secret before I could ponder the

ramifications, like I was dying to tell someone other than Brooke. But why Summer?

I felt an odd comfort in her presence.

I can hear the decisions you make, I said. I mean, not all of them. I cant just

listen in on your inner dialogue whenever I want. But just before, you said you were

going to take one more drag of your cigarette and head to Algebra. Other than that,

I have no idea what youre thinking. I glanced down at my watch. Fifteen minutes

until lunch ended. How do you always know when I can hear you? I asked her.

Other than you staring at me like a stalker? Summer ran her boot back andforth over the wooden seat, catching a protruding nail with the sole of her shoe with

each stroke. I can do things. Its a family thing. All the women are freaks.

I took a seat on the table next to her. Like lighting cigarettes without fire and

spinning utensils on the table without touching them?

I guess I wasnt being as discreet as I thought.

No, I was just paying attention, which I doubt many other people do. I smiled.

And I dont think youre a freak. Actually, I found Summer interesting. We shared

a commonality. We both lived on the outside, even though I did a much better job at

attempting to be normal, if theres an actual definition for normal.

Youre not too bad. Summer played with the hole in her tights. Youre goodat hiding your freak-show ability.

Summer stopped talking and turned away slightly. I got the feeling she didnt

want to speak to me any longer.

She stared ahead, our conversation clearly over. I followed her gaze.

I think hes waiting for you, cause it sure isnt me, she said and climbed off

the table. Ill see you around. She glared at Chance as he approached. Be

careful, Alexis. Not everythings what it seems.


20/21

Chance took a seat next to me at the table. I noticed his smell again and drew

in a shaky breath. He smelled good. I mean, really good. A spring shower mixed

with a very yummy mens fragrance.

We watched Summer enter the building.

She seems interesting, Chance said. I didnt sense any sarcasm in his tone.

He fumbled to cup his fingers around mine, almost missing my hand completely.I tried to focus on something other than his touch. Yeah, not successful. I certainly

didnt need to pass out and take a header. That would definitely ruin my chances.

I think I may have just made a new friend, I finally said, still wrapping my

brain around my association with Summer Hillsboro. Maybe. Shes hard to read.

Two friends in two days, he said.

Its been a good week. Other than hearing the thoughts of a killer.

Are you okay? You left lunch in a hurry, he said.

Oh, Im fine, I dismissed. I didnt want to sound pushy, but I needed to change

the subject of my fight-or-flight reaction during lunch. What happened at lunch?

Tiffany didnt seem too happy with me, I asked.It wasnt you. Sunlight brightened his dark brown irises and softened his

pronounced brow. I guess I didnt give her the answer she was looking for.

The dance. Saying it only reinforced the fact that I didnt have a date.

He removed his hand from mine and pushed his sleeves up. The few clouds had

parted, giving way for the warm sun to beat down on us. I dont really do the whole

dance thing, unless Im with the right person. Otherwise it seems like a waste of

time. His stare was intense, like he could look right through me. He placed his

hand back on mine. This time he interlocked our fingers more easily.

I shrugged, trying to sound calmer than I felt. That makes sense. Why did you

move to Whispering Hills? Out of all the places to live, why here?My uncle got a job at the library. He restores old books.

We have old books I havent spent much time at the library since I was a little

girl. I smiled, remembering. I used to walk to the library with my father. Wed go

once a week to borrow books. Afterward, hed take me by the ice cream shop for a

vanilla milkshake with rainbow sprinkles. That was before he started traveling so

often. I swallowed. Its okay though. It leaves more time for my painting.

I bit my lip, hesitant to ask my next question. It was personal, and wed just

met. But I had to know if Brooke was right. Do you have any relatives that used to

live here?

His hand tightened around mine. Why do you ask?Its nothing. My sister just thought shed heard your last name before. You see,

my mom is the towns social chair, and she has everyones names and addresses

spanning back to the towns founding fathers, I said with some sarcasm.

He stepped down on to the ground. The bells about to ring. Can I walk you to

class?

Uh, sure. I stepped down off the table, stood for a second, waiting for him to

respond. When he didnt, I started for the door.


21/21

Chance swung his backpack over his shoulder and followed me back into school.

After school, I removed my mothers planner from her desk and carried it up to my

room. She was on the phone in the kitchen blabbering to someone about taking up

the slack for the lazy citizens of Whispering Hills who no longer cared about the

towns traditions.A housewife dedicated to organizing all of the towns social events and

president of the social committee for the fifth consecutive year, Jacquelyn Forbes

spent most of her time planning with the other suburban wifey-poos. This left little

time for anything else, much less her own kids.

Not that I could totally blame her for volunteering to plan everything in town. I

mean, my father, Barry Forbes, was cool, but only when he was home. His

government job in Washington kept him away for long periods of time. He traveled

the world doing top-secret work for the CIA or some other acronym-attributed

agency. Even now, hes off on one of his if-I-tell-you-Ill-have-to-kill-you jobs. I knew

Mom felt lonely, and I suppose the social events gave her a feeling of purpose,along with other wives to hang out with.

I sat on my bed and scanned the pages. Refreshments, decorations, venues

everything detailed throughout the thick binder. My mother had to learn how to

create a spreadsheet. She could condense this bad-boy to half its size.

I turned to the tab reading, Whispering Hills Residents. And of course, the

names werent in alphabetical order. Excel, Mom! After flipping through about thirty

pages of names, I stopped at an entry crossed out in red ink, the names just barely

visibleJohn and Deborah Whitefield (Gabriel). I ran my finger across the page to

their address, 12701 Lakewood Road. Lakewood Road paralleled the lake, where

Chance had just moved. I pictured the Victorian hed pointed out, cream with blueand white trim tucked behind a row of pines.

I thought back to his unmistakably noticeable non-response after I asked if

any of his family members used to live in Whispering Hills. His answer wasnt no,

only avoidance.

Suddenly a chill rose up my spine.

Did the Whitefields just move here, or did they just move back?

Find out what happens next...

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www.tarynbrowning.com

Whispering Hills (1st 4 Chapters)

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