I glanced back to see them still watching as we reached the street.“They can’t be serious. Even though that was really creepy.”I examined the small nick Dennis’costume had left, then glanced over my shoulder a second time to see the swings empty and gently blowing in the wind. I shivered as a cool breeze picked up.
“It was creepy as fuck.” Ari glanced at my finger before looking at me with wide eyes.“Do you think they know where we live?”
“No. I’m sure they don’t. Maybe those really were lucky guesses.”
“Maybe,” she agreed, but we both knew that wasn’t true.
Paranoia
“Don’t go in there, you’re gonna die!” I shouted in a blur.
“Do you do this everyday?”
“Shhh.” I waved over my shoulder, watching the screen in suspense. My favorite mystery cartoon was on.
Ari laughed and came around the couch with a stack of books and papers. She dropped them on the table and sat. “I thought you stopped watching this show like ten years ago.”
“Nope, I still love this show. Are you studying?” I grimaced at the pile of schoolwork.
“Yeah. Would you mind turning it off so I can focus? I study best in here and I have an exam tomorrow. We can do something in a little while, though?” She adjusted her large orange glasses as I happily agreed.
“Where do you wanna go?”
“I dunno. We’ll figure it out.” She dragged the thickest book onto her lap and flipped it open.“Get ready and we can decide after.”
“Yes, ma’am.” I went upstairs before she could change her mind. I took a quick shower and got dressed, throwing on dark jeans and a plum bustier. A while passed before Ari appeared in my doorway.
“Are you ready?” She was donned in a plain white t-shirt and jeans. I made a face at her at the exact moment she made one at me.
“Are you wearing that?” We both chorused.
“No. I’m in it for funsies,” I said, zipping into a pair of black boots.
“I wanna see a movie.” She sat on my bed and grabbed Frankie, watching while I blended shimmery black eyeshadow with the silver.“A new horror movie just came out.” Her eyes lit up as they caught mine in the mirror. “It’s late afternoon, so it might not be that crowded anymore. At least not with kids. They always spoil the mood during scary shit.”
“Perfect.” I threw my mascara down in excitement, then grabbed my phone and keys.“I’ll drive.”
“No way. I’m driving.” She rushed past me and led the way downstairs, snatching her purse and keys along the way. I took over music when we reached her car, putting on my favorite playlist as we backed out of the driveway.“What is this?” She slammed on the brakes and reached for my phone, but I pulled it away just in time.
“My favorite band. You’ll get used to them.” I grinned and cranked up the volume as she headed down the street. I sang along until we reached the tiny mall across town.
“Do you have to do that?” She pulled into the nearest space and cut the engine.“You’re so tone deaf. I don’t know if anyone’s ever told you, but it’s pretty bad.”
“Rude.” I unlocked the door and got out. She gently closed her door, then shot me a glare when I slammed mine.
“I know you’re mad you can’t sing, but don’t take it out on my car.”
“Stop being a hater.” I laughed, my heels clicking against the warm asphalt as we set off for the theater. “How many movies even play here? This theater is microscopic.”
“Usually four at a time. Each room has like twenty seats.”
I stopped dead and stared at her.“What kind of theateristhis? A theater for tiny people? Hermits? People with no friends?”
“Sorry it doesn’t fit your standards, miss princess.” She rolled her eyes and continued walking. “It’s a small town but you should be used to it. You used to visit enough.”
“Yeah, but then I got used to big cities.” I sighed as we reached the ticket booth. This was a huge change from Newark, where I’d spent the last five years.“Two tickets, please.” I pointed to the movie title and leaned against the counter, eyeing the man on the other side.“Does it get boring here all by yourself?” I smiled as he caught sight of my shirt. Or lack thereof.
“Sometimes.” He hit a couple buttons and rested a hand suspiciously close to mine.
