"Are you kidding me?" My voice raises ever so slightly as I feel myself getting into the friendly banter. " When was the last time you saw a vampire movie you were actually afraid of?" I continue to question my best friend Zeke Williams.

   This argument is one that we have had many times, and I am sure we will have many more, but our opinions never waver. Our passion for our favorite horror stories is one of our favorite topics, and something that has always bound us as friends.

   The roar of the cafeteria buzzes around us, but we pay it little mind. Finally being seniors in high school has its perks; one of which is having a free period before our lunch. All summer I have been excited that we both managed to get the same time and now have almost two whole hours in the middle of day to do with as we please.

  Granted, both periods serve as a lunch so we never really get a chance to just relax on our own. Maybe if we weren't both broke and one of us had a car it would be better. Being able to actually get to go out and do something, to have a moment of freedom. Still, just sitting and chatting with a friend is always nice.

   "Reza," he shakes his head vigorously as he prepares his argument, "you are only focusing on modern day vampire movies. If you don't get hung up on a specific movie and just think of the concept," his dark blue eyes widen as he envisions a scene. "Imagine it, think about being attacked by one," his shaggy blond hair bounces wildly as he pretends to look around in fear. " I think it would be more than a little scary!" Zeke's voice raises a pitch as his excitement overtakes him.

  I love getting him worked up, he gets so animated. Not caring that as he waves his tanned arms about, his pizza swings dangerously around threatening those near with grease splatters. Thankfully his band t-shirt is black, if a stray drop lands on him it will hardly be noticeable. His jeans on the other hand, well they are on their own. Then again, he is a pretty short guy, his legs are probably tucked safely under the table.

   "Maybe, I guess as long as you're not talking about the stupid sparkle in the sun shit," I laugh, fully aware I am making a low blow at vampire movies. "But still," I pause as I brush my long black hair away from my face, "I say zombie movies are way creepier, doesn't matter if you are thinking of just the concept or a specific movie."

  I finish a bit absentminded as my attention is drawn to cleaning up my area. Once I am sure there is no lingering pizza sauce on my face I throw my napkin on top of my half eaten lunch and push the tray to the side. Normally I have no fear of eating in front of people, but something has me feeling a bit unsettled today.

   "How can zombies be creepier? They don't even run after you, they walk!" Zeke yells a bit louder causing a few of our neighbors to look over at us annoyed.

  I can't help but cringe ever so slightly as a blush creeps into my pale cheeks. I've never been one to enjoy the attention of others. Zeke notices them but doesn't shy away as I do, instead he just widens his eyes and stares right back at them till they look away.

   "That actually depends on the movie, in some they are able to run as long as they aren't too rotted. That's not the main point though, sure you could get away from one, but wait until you're surrounded! Sure you can try and fight your way out, but you know that those people are going to run out of guns eventually!" My response comes automatically as we fall into the same rhythm as always. This routine never bothered me though, it always led to the two of us vegging out in front of the TV doing a movie marathon of our favorites. "And besides-"

   "Oh look at her," Zeke rudely interrupts me mid sentence, receiving a glare in response.

  Zeke always says that my eyes, although a beautiful emerald green when smiling, look evil whenever I glare. Typically, I get a shiver or a cringe out of him, but he is far to mesmerized by something behind me to notice. Giving into my curiosity I spin around in my chair to see what is so interesting. My breath catches in my throat, instantly I understand what has captivated his attention.

   Three people I have never seen before walk in, and they are all beautiful. The one in front, who obviously has Zeke's eye, is a striking woman who takes long confident strides into the room. Although it looks as though we would be close to the same height, she stands taller than I. Somehow she manages to make a simple, white, long sleeve shirt and a pair of jeans look stunning; something I feel I could never pull of. A thought flickers across my mind, I must try to not slouch so much. Her Long chocolate brown hair flutters behind her as she walks purposefully into the room.

  Close on her heels is man who stands about a foot taller than her, he seems tense, but trying to hide it with a small tight smile and a casual step. His navy blue V neck hangs loosely on him, but does not hide his toned figure. His hard and chiseled face set forward in a steady gaze that has an air of authority to it. His brown hair pushed up and away from his face sits up in little messy spikes that almost contradict his stern impression.

    Lastly, a taller man saunters in behind wearing dark jeans and a leather jacket. He stands out from the two before him. His dark shaggy hair falls carelessly around his sculpted face. Unlike his, I presume, brother, he stands completely relaxed and at ease in this new environment. His cool eyes taking in the surrounding people with indifference. Even at a glace, it is easy to tell that these three are going to get a lot of attention.

   "Are they all new here?" Zeke's eyes never falter from the girl as she stops to speak to the guy behind her.

   "Zeke, I have been with you all day. If I knew anything, don't you think you would know?" I tease him not wanting to admit that I am staring at them just as much as he.

  The last guy, showing no interest in whatever the girl is saying, begins to take in the room. He slowly scans the people that are scattered about, as his gaze gets closer to us I whip back around in my seat. The idea of him catching me staring makes my stomach drop. I silently curse myself as once again my cheeks turn a deep shade of red. Zeke, who doesn't so much care if he is noticed or not, doesn't pay me any attention. Completely fine in my book, I don't need another lecture about how I shouldn't care what people think.

  "So what do you think, I got a chance with her?" he asks.

  "Zeke-" I start, halting when a very familiar, and unwanted, laugh echoes in my ears.

  Reluctantly I look up to see the cruel dark eyes of Hanna Zahoric zeroing in on us. Her painted red lips twisted in a sinister smile. Her sharp features make her look equally beautiful and evil, all depending on how she directs her attention at you. For being someone who holds so much power in this school, she is surprisingly short. It's one of the things that helps deceive people into believing she is an innocent cutie. Her curly bleach blond hair bounces as she struts toward us. Her heels clicking irritatingly loud against the tile floor, demanding that attention of those near.

   "Aw, does lil Zeke have a crush? Give it a break, do you have a chance with any girl?" She laughs and glances over her shoulder to her two friends (minions), Jackie and Jill Thompson.

  I always believed they were prettier than Hanna, but they don't have the fight that she does to put others down. Maybe they realized at this point they don't really need to. Besides Hanna, there really isn't very much competition for them. Being identical twins is an automatic point for them, what guy doesn't find that intriguing? If it weren't for their haircut, Jackie keeps her straight strawberry hair cut to about shoulder length while Jill's cascades halfway down her back, you wouldn't be able to tell the difference between them. Standing a head taller than Hanna, they almost look like her body guards at times. If two 100 lb girls could be body guards that is. They laugh along with Hanna, reminding me of a pack of hyenas.

  "Do you hear something?" Zeke finally brings his attention back to me, obviously ignoring the trio behind him.

  My whole body is rigid as I sit there uncomfortable, unsure of what I should do. I see movement out of the corner of my eye and shift my awareness to the new comers as they make their way to the office. When I realize that their attention is being returned in our direction a chill runs through me and I quickly avert my eyes. I know they are probably all looking at Hanna and her friends, but I can't stop the blush from taking over my face once more.

  "Oh dear, looks like Reza has a crush too," Hanna puts her hand to her heart as if she cared for my well being. She sashays over to me and gently places her hand on my arm, the unexpected touch making me jump. She mockingly comforts me as she leans in closer. "Don't worry honey, looks aren't everything..." she stands up and turns back to the twins loudly whispering "then again, in her case they aren't anything."

  My heart falls into my stomach as their laughter once again violates my ears. Looking at them, so beautiful that they almost glow, I feel the familiar stab of self consciousness. Nothing special stands out when I think of my appearance. Hanna is right... average height, average weight, average everything.

  Having completed their mission of insulting both of us they turn and move on to their next target. I sink down in my chair wanting nothing more than to just disappear. Zeke shakes his head angry at them, and a little at me for becoming upset.

  "Don't worry about her, it's just Hanna Za-WHORE-ic" he emphasizes the middle of her last name loudly. I force myself to giggle knowing he is trying to cheer me up. "You know what? You have taken everything those girls have thrown at you! It's our senior year!" he shouts, trying to get me pumped up for the future.

  "I think it's about time you take a stand for yourself, don't you? You are such a fun and amazing person outside of school. If you would just open up a little, then maybe I wouldn't be your only friend," the gusto drains from him quickly as he realizes what he said. His eyes soften, steeling apologetic glances my way. I know he means well, but all it does is make my heart ache even more.

   It's true, I am a little too shy. I just never know what to say to people, not that many people even want to give me the chance. My family's name was dragged through the dirt long before I had a chance to make a reputation. I mean, who want to talk to the girl whose mom died when she was a baby and whose dad is the town drunk? Who wants to associate with the girl that is labeled a freak? The girl who wears nothing but black, not that I really think there is anything wrong with that.

  Its not like I have anything against color, Zeke is always scolding me to add some 'pizzazz' to my wardrobe. I'd rather keep things simple. Like today, a black baby doll top that is flowy and comfortable. Mix that with some black shorts that are frayed, not because that's the style but because they are old and worn, and some flip flops and call it a day! I don't see anything wrong with going simple and comfy. For one thing I don't have the money to try to follow any kind of fashion, and another thing I'd rather just stay unnoticed.

  If I can just fade into the background, that is ideal. I get made fun of for not participating in school events, but then laughed at when I try. It's like, no matter what I do, there are always people like Hanna to remind me of where I come from. Even when people do try to talk to me I can see the judging, or even worse, the pity all over their face. It's enough to make me just shut myself in.

  Zeke is different, but then again we go way back. It's probably the only reason we are friends today. We have been neighbors our entire lives. Well, ever since my dad moved into the house next to his after my mom died, but that was before I can remember. When I was little, his mom would have me over for dinner practically every night. For a while, before I was able to take care of myself, I all but lived there. She was always real nice, never saying anything about my dad. Although I appreciate everything his family did for me, at the moment all it does is make me feel even lower about myself.

  Zeke fumbles around for something to say, something to lighten the mood once again. I can almost see the light bulb click on when a flicker of excitement flashes over his face. He leans in close and gives me his crooked smile as he glances around to make sure no one is paying attention.

  "Hey, I have an idea! It's the first day of school, nothing ever happens on the first day of school. So why don't we just get out of here. I mean there are only two classes left," he whispers just loud enough for me to hear.

  I love him, he is my best friend and I can't stop myself from giving into a little smile as I watch him try so hard to make me happy. Sitting up straight now I pretend to be in shock.

  "Tsk! Zeke, I can't believe you would suggest we skip school!" I shake my head in mock disappointment.

  He, of course, can see right through this and just raises an eyebrow at me. It really is nice to have a friend care so much about you. Trying to listen to all of his self help speeches, I take a deep breath and decide to make the best of what's left of the day. Giving him one of my biggest, most cheerful smiles, I waive my hand as if to wave away the idea.

  "Naw, thanks though," He lowers his eyes at me, trying to see through my mask. "I'm serious, as you said it's the first day! We really don't need to start getting in trouble right off the bat do we?" I stick out my tongue and laugh at him. Glancing at the clock I start to collect my belongings, which earns me a groan of frustration from Zeke.

  "Reza, seriously we still have like ten minutes before we have to start heading to class!" he grabs at my shoulder bag trying to slow me down. Playfully I glare and poke him in the side, quickly pulling my bag away from his clutches.

  "As I have said every year, walking away from lunch is always a nightmare. Too many people trying to funnel into a little hallway, I'd rather just head down there early. Besides, I have English with Ms. Wilda next, and you know she is my favorite teacher," I go full on pout mode with the big eyes and trembling lip for him to just let me go.

   He groans again but lowers his head in defeat. A passer-by may think this is him upset with me, but I know better. Sure he may be a little annoyed, but neither one of us wants to argue over this. I sling my plain black bag over my shoulder and grab my tray.

  "See ya later Zeke," I pat his head In goodbye as I turn to head to the trash can.

SMASH

  My mouth drops open, my heart sinking in disbelief, as I stare wide eyed at the scene unfolding in front of me with horror. In my hurry to flee the cafeteria I turned too quickly, and carelessly, only to collide into another person. My tray of half eaten pizza flipping up to land on the soft white material of their shirt.

  All I can hear is my heart pounding, my face warm with the oncoming blush, as I trail my eyes up to see who is before me. I physically cringe as I make eye contact with none other than the girl Zeke had pointed out earlier. My eyes dart around desperately hoping not to find any traces of a stain. I have never in my life been more thankful for napkins, and for the fact I had laid mine over my unfinished food.

  "Ohmygod!" I hear myself shout too quickly to be understood.

  Without delay I drop to my knees and begin to clean up the mess I have created. My hands shake, and for a fleeting moment I hope no one notices. Too afraid to make eye contact with the girl I keep my head down even after I stand up.

  "I am so sorry! I can't believe how clumsy I am!"

   "Hey, it's no worries! No harm done," She smiles warmly at me, not showing any concern for her almost ruined outfit.

  Slowly I force myself to return her gaze, her brown eyes are captivating. It takes everything in me not to openly stare at her.

  "I'm Elena Gilbert," She introduces herself with confidence.

  "Nereza Morelli, but everyone calls me Reza," I say awkwardly trying to return her smile, hoping I don't look as shaky as I feel

  "Oh, that's an interesting name!" I try not to wince, but she actually sounds genuine. Typically, people laugh, or poke at my ancient name.

  "Thanks, it's a family name...or so I'm told."

  Taking the few steps needed to reach the trash can I am caught off guard when it appears Elena is walking with me. Is she actually interested? Dropping my leftovers in the trash, I force my self to pay attention to my task so not to knock over the tower of trays as I add mine to the top.

  "That's fun! It sounds Italian, am I right?" she keeps in step with me as I walk toward the hall.

  "Um, yea. So where are you from?" I ask, switching the topic to her. I feel much more comfortable this way.

  "Well in the past couple years I have moved around, a lot," she adds the last part with emphasis. A part of me gets a little jealous, I've never even left my little town of Pax Dale.

  "Well that has to be interesting at least, so are your brothers in the same grade as you?" I try to keep the conversation going.

  Her step falters as she turns to me with a grimace, only to burst out laughing a moment later. Realizing I must have somehow said something stupid, my familiar blush begins to creep back into place.

  "Oh the boys with me? They are not my brothers, trust me!" she laughs again "Actually one of them is my boyfriend. Because of some," she hesitates, sending a sideways glance my way, "personal problems, I have been living with them for a while."

"Wow, I don't think I could do that. I mean for a while I kind of lived with my best friend Zeke, but I think I'd be afraid of getting sick of him if I had to see him all the time," I bite my lip to stop myself from rambling any further.

  Whenever I am nervous my mouth just starts moving on its own accord, useless information that no one cares about bubbling to the surface. Steeling a glance in her direction I am once again surprised to see her looking at me with interest. Wow, maybe Zeke is right. If I continue this whole opening up thing, maybe I will make at least one more friend.

  "Well Stefan and I have been together a long time, I don't really worry about that anymore," she giggles quietly to herself, almost like laughing at her own personal joke. "Oh you asked what grade I was in," her eyes brighten at the sudden remembrance. "I'm a junior, you?"

  "Senior," A wide smile overtakes me, I can't help but become overjoyed every time I am reminded of how close I am to getting out of here. "So, what class are you going to now?"

   Elena pulls a piece of paper from her back pocket and hands it over to me. Fumbling with it just a bit, I manage to unfold it.

  "Hmm, math. Well Mr. Calvin is pretty nice. Just don't mess with your phone in his class, that is his biggest pet peeve. Specially if your texting. He is not afraid to read aloud whatever is on the screen when he confiscates it," I look at her to make sure she is paying attention, this is important insider information." Oh, look you have Mrs. Wilda for English! She is my favorite teacher, I actually have her class now," I say as I pass her schedule back to her.

  "Cool, maybe I'll be able to see you in passing then," she smiles brightly at me as she returns the paper back to its original resting place.

  "But if you're looking for your class, it's actually right over there," I point to the classroom three doors down the hallway to our left.

  "Thanks!" she flashes her bright smile again.

  Glancing at the room and back to me she pauses as if debating something. Her smile twitches minutely as her eyes narrow mischievously. My stomach does a somersault, unsure of what to expect.

   "Considering you give such great directions," she teases, "why don't you meet me and the guys after school? You can show us around."

  I try not to gape at her as her words sink in. She wants to hang out? So soon? Sure, Zeke and I never really agreed on doing a movie night, but it's what we always do on days like this.

  "Well I kind of have plans for later," I stumble over my words as my mind works on overdrive, "but I can hang out for a little bit..." I trail off nervously.

  "Great, meet you out front then!" she turns on her heels before I have a chance to reconsider, disappearing down the hallway.