Friday Flash: Changes

 

I've been considering a book two to Starred. It wouldn't be a true sequel, but it would be set after Starred with very minor characters being the main characters. Winter Stone is one of these minor characters who would have a major role in Played.

Changes

If I rolled up my skirt a little, then it would be short enough for my date with Nathan. But for now, Mom would freak if I left the house looking like a skank instead of her perfect little girl. I straightened the skirt until it nearly touched my knees and threw on a button-down shirt over my tank top. She’d never know.

My cell buzzed, and I snatched it off my white dresser.

U ready? Nathan texted.

I grabbed my brush and ran it through my bleach-blond hair. Blondes had more fun, right? I’d applied my mascara thickly, and it made the blue in my eyes pop. Why had I worn those stupid glasses for years again? I smiled at myself in the mirror and then puckered my lips, as if practicing for Nathan to kiss me ... and more. A girlish giggle bubbled from my throat.

Downstairs, the phone rang.

I texted Nathan back. Almost. C u soon. :)

A second later, he text back. ;)

I slipped my phone in my purse and slung it over my shoulder. The door knob felt cold in my hand as I opened my bedroom door. A glance back revealed way too much pink in my room. We really needed to do a makeover. I wasn’t that innocent girl any more. When I turned back, I bumped into Mom.

“What is ... it?” My hard edge faltered as I noticed the tears in her eyes. “Is Dad back with the car?”

She swallowed and her body trembled. Her hand clutched the door frame, knuckles turning white. “Winter, you need to sit down.”

I crossed my arms. “I don’t have time for this. I’m meeting Nathan.”

“No, you’re not.” Her voice cut into me.

I backed up. “Why?”

She entered my room and sank upon my bed. Her hands pressed against the bedspread. “Come. Sit.”

“I don’t have time for this, Mom.” I didn’t keep the whine out. Nathan was waiting on me, and if I kept him waiting, then he’d likely find some other girl to date. I started to head out the room.

“The police called.”

I paused mid-step.

“Your dad and Shawn were in a car accident.” Mom sucked in a deep breath. “Dead ... on the scene, the police said.”

I turned slowly to look at her. The tears poured down her cheeks and dripped upon my bed. I didn’t doubt what she said, but I couldn’t stop the rush, like a flooded river, roaring in my ears. My feet dragged me away from her, even as she called out. Soon I was running out of the house. I pulled my phone out to text Nathan: Pick me up. Please.

My hands shook, and it took five times to text him. I couldn’t be here right now. Anywhere right now.