After school Gale walked home. She waited as two doves performed an exotic dance above her head.

Oh, how she longed to be free like them with no care in the world. Her heart ached as she sat on the roots of a willow tree. No need to go home yet. There was no one waiting for her.

I guess that's what you get when you disappoint Father.

The doves settled on a branch above her. She must control the urge to release her wings. No mortal must see her. No matter what the circumstance is.

A boy in a black hoodie walked with hid head down.

"Drew?"

He cringed at the sound of name.
She was shocked at the look on his face. He looked frighten and on edge as if someone was tailing him.

"It's me, Gale" she lower her voice so she wouldn't scare him anymore.

"Oh" he relaxed slightly as if reassured that she wouldn't hurt him but he was still nervous about something

She rose. Maybe she could comfort him. The idea filled her mind and warmed her down to her toes. Her heart was pounding so fast she was positive that he could hear it.

"May I walk with you?" she stepped lightly trying to appear graceful but it didn't seem to work. She almost slipped but caught herself just in time.

He gave a small nod.

How to be playful and fun so he'll like me. She flipped his hood down. He growled like a mad dog. She gulped and blushed. They turned right.

"This my stop" Gale mumbled.

He shrugged. She walked up the rickety old porch. After entering her house she peeked out the window.

Drew turned at the gate of the house neighboring hers, walked up the steps, and entered the house.

An uneasy feeling struck her stomach. He was her new neighbor.