Prologue

Rain blinked her eyes open after her sleep attack. Though it was currently the middle of the day, Rain could see no light leaking though the closet she was currently sitting in. Why was she in a closet? Well simply hours earlier, Rain had gotten a hold of the remote in the living room while her mother and stepfather were absent. She found a music channel on television (one of only 11 channels they were able to receive) and took the liberty to dance around the tattered, filth filled, living room. Rain loved to dance. Had her audience been more then the rats that lived in the battered walls, or sometimes her nonlucid mother, Rain might have known that her dancing was quite good. Unfortunately one spin and extension of her leg happened to knock the remote off the table (that was lopsided and only had 3 legs) and the remote shattered on the cemented floor (once covered by a layer of beige carpet that had been ripped out, once all trace of it's original colour had disappeared). Before Rain could attempt to repair it her step father returned to the living room, his blood shot eyes narrowing, his mouth twisting into a look of distaste then anger as he spotted the remote. After a lot of bad words and bruises later Rain was deposited in the closet that locked from the outside and left there for an undetermined amount of time. Some times, Rain could be left in the closet for a couple of days before anyone would think to let her out. Being shy and fragile she tried very hard to escape the attention of all those living in the house and most days succeeded. Rain now continued to sit in the closet with her arms wrapped around her legs as she tried to stay quiet. Seconds later gunshots rang out from the front of the house. Rain was used to gunshots. When her mother was lucid enough to care she would tell rain to

cover her ears, shut her eyes and name something for each letter of the alphabet. And that's what Rain did, though very quietly. There was more shots then normal and even after Rain had uncovered her ears at the end of the alphabet she could still hear them. She covered her ears and continued the mantra until fear closed over her so hard it gave her a panic induced sleep attack that lasted a few minutes after the sound of gunshots had stopped. Rain was in the closet for 3-4 hours more until one of the police officers/ crime scene investigators happened to investigate it. Seeing the strange man, Rain curled up even more tightly into her ball and hoped to become invisible while the man froze in surprise. He was sure everyone in the house was dead and he did not expect to find anyone alive or under the age of 20 for that matter. Once the shock wore off he called for the paramedic in the ambulance they had on stand-by to come in immediately. Though the man and women paramedic were also surprised to find the young girl in the closet, they were professionals and quickly picked her up from the closet and convinced her to come to the hospital. Rain was still scared but she was smart enough to see that she really had no other options but to co-operate. So she went along with them and was not surprised by the blood smeared on the floor or the many wholes in the walls. When the paramedics had wrapped a blanket around her shoulders and retrieved water for her ready to question her by the ambulance Rain finally decided to speak, though her voice was horse and quivering. Where's my mother?

Chapter 1 Caroline's POV

I grinned after hanging up the phone almost unable to contain my excitement. It had been some time since I had taken a decorating job, for I hated to leave little Mathew. But he would be starting Kindergarten in three weeks, and oddly enough I was already starting to feel a little lonely thinking of all my children being at school. This job would be a nice change and would surely keep me occupied. The phone rang again jolting me from my thoughts. I frowned at the number on the caller I.D., not recognizing it although from the area code I knew it was not from any of my friends in California. Hello? I answered. Good Afternoon, may I please speak to Miss Caroline Colt, formerly Caroline Wood? This is Caroline Colt, I answered even more curious. The last time I had heard my maiden name was 19 years ago when I had married Henry, who I was still madly in love with even after almost 20 years of marriage. Ah yes, well I am calling on behalf of the Miami police and law enforcement. At around 6pm 2 days ago the police were called out to a shooting. Almost all inhabitants of the house that seems to be the main target, are dead. The only survivor, a young girl around 16 years of age, severely under nourished and almost completely uneducated. Her name is Rain Taylor... I frowned while listening bewildered to why I was being informed about this, until I heard the last name Taylor, my mind immediately searching for the link. The police officer continued. The child is the daughter of one Mary Scott, and Jonathon Taylor, who are both deceased. Jonathon Taylor, in action 11 years ago, and Mary Scott of a gun shot wound 2 days ago. We were able to retrieve the will of both Mrs. Scott and Mr. Taylor and in the event of both their untimely deaths you are named sole Guardian of Rain Evelyn Caroline Taylor, he finished.

My mind replayed his words over twice before they could make sense of his words and suddenly it clicked. Mary who's last name used to be Kennedy, was my best friend all throughout high school. I was silent as many things all washed over me. Shock and grief over finding out that after all these years she is now dead. More shock about the daughter I had never knew existed and panicked and surprised that I had been named her guardian. Oh Goodness, what am I suppose to do? As she has no other living relatives and no other names even mentioned in the will, we hope you could take it upon yourself to house the girl until the age of 18, where she will become legally responsible for herself. If you refuse we will have no other choice but to put her in foster care. Either way the court would appreciate your presence here tomorrow at 8:00 am to either take her home with you or sign over, her care to the legal system, he continued. I bit my lip still completely undecided though horrified at the thought of having a girl at that age put into foster care. Knowing either way I would have to make the trip over there I resolved to think it over , and of course consult Henry before I made a decision. Alright I'll be there at 8:00 am tomorrow, I assured before rattling off my cell phone and telling them to call in case of an emergency. After hanging up the phone I put my head in my hands rubbing my forehead at the headache I could feel coming on, my design job all but forgotten. My head buzzing from all this new information. I still couldn't believe Mary was dead. It had been such a long time since I had last seen her and now we would never be able to reconnect. And a daughter? Of course even in high school you could tell how crazy her and Jonathon were about each other. With Mary's blue eyes and long dark hair and Jonathon's dark eyes and curly blond hair, they were both good looking people. And of course Mary was one of the best friends I ever had. I wonder what her daughter looked like. Why did they name her Rain? It's not like I expected her to keep the baby names we came up with at the age of 15 when we sat around eating junk food and dreaming about the future. But Rain was a pretty unusual name. My eyes teared when I remembered what the police officer said her second middle name was. Rain Evelyn Caroline Taylor. Even when we had lost contact after high school Mary had still named her daughter partly after me. I took a deep breath trying to calm down as I grabbed a couple of tissues to dab my eyes. Unfortunately it was then that my sweet, over protective, husband walked into my office. At first he was smiling until he saw the expression on my face that I had quickly tried to hide. I got to my feet planting a smile on face not wanting to alarm him. I wasn't quick enough. His expression immediately turned concerned as he rushed to my side. Carol, honey, what's wrong, he asked, pulling me into his arms. Comfort immediately filled me and I hugged him tighter. It was amazing how much better I felt simply having him close. He was truly my miracle cure, my other half. I received some news today, I started off wondering how I could possibly tell him that we could possibly end up the guardians of a young girl in just a days time.

He nodded motioning for me to continue. I did. He also knew Mary and Jonathon back in high school, so at least that saved some time. He also looked regretful at the news of their death and to say he was shocked to hear about Rain was an understatement. After I was done we were both silent, lost in our own thoughts. As much as it seemed like the right thing to do, being the guardian, being legally responsible for another human being and taking them into our home, was not a decision to be taken lightly. What do you think? I finally asked. He looked into my eyes moving the blond strands from my face and behind my ear. After a moment he answered not moving his eyes from mine. I'm leaving it completely up to you. If you feel like it's the right thing to do and think we can handle it, then go for it. I know you won't do anything without first thinking about everyone else, He assured stroking my cheek, a small smile lighting his face. I smiled back at his confidence. Even after 21 years he'll still do anything to make me happy. I love you, I said pecking him on the lips. Love you too, he answered automatically pulling me close. That night I caught the 8pm airplane, on my way to Miami.

The next morning after leaving the hotel, I grabbed a cab and gave them the address name. I was so nervous my palms were sweating, and no matter how relaxed I could make myself appear on the outside, on the inside I was a wreck. After staying up half the night debating I decided I owed it to my friend to at least put the girl up in my house for the time being, but if there was any trouble I would make other arrangements. I lost contact with Mary too long ago to be sure of what type of person she was before she died, and so I couldn't be sure what type of person her daughter turned into, so it was unfair of me to make any sort of decision before meeting her first. I arrived at the child and youth building connected to the police department and I quickly paid the cab fair and got out walking at a normal pace to the entrance. I had to resist the urge to stand frozen, looking at the building. But I swallowed my indecision. I was a fully grown adult and needed to act like one. The lobby was fairly plain, though very clean. In the corner sat a waiting area with magazines, a lamp, and a few cotton covered chairs. Straight in front was a large front desk with two computers and a women sat in a chair with a clean pressed blouse and her hair up in a tight knot. I stopped at the front desk waiting for the attention of the secretary before giving her a

professional smile. Excuse me, my name is Caroline Colt and I have an appointment at 8:00, I said glancing at my watch to see I was about 5 minutes early. She nodded also smiling politely as she started typing into her computer. A second later her hands paused and her smile dropped. Ah, I see. Rain Taylor. They're ready for you now in room 5H, down the hall and to the right, she said plastering the smile back on. Thank you, I said nodding and completely disregarding the secretary as the nerves ate at me. I found the room easily and took a deep soothing breath and letting it out slowly before knocking on the door three times. A voice called me to come in so I opened it up slowly my eyes taking in the room. It looked like a large office with a desk off to the right hand side, a few potted plants and cream coloured walls. There were two men inside. One with black gelled hair and a mustache, the other balding with glasses. Both wore professional looking suites and smiles as I came up to the desk. Ah Mrs. Colt I presume. Please take a seat, responded the black haired one pointing to a chair that had me sitting with the black haired man on my right and the balding man on the left. I am Liam Unsworth, and this is Mr. Johnson. Mr. Johnson is, well was, Mrs. Scott's lawyer. I am here because I am the current manager of this facility and it is my job to overlook when any of the children are put into another's care, to make sure they are put in proper homes, he continued. I nodded and shook hands with both of them, relieved my hands had cooled. So Mrs. Colt I think before we get into any technicalities we should know what your decision is about taking in the child , Mr. Unsworth said getting down to business while Mr. Johnson remained silent. I bit my lip still not ready to make a decision. May I see her first? I don't want to decide anything before I know more about her, I said preparing myself as both the lawyer and Mr. Unsworth nodded. As I was about to rise to my feet though he held up his hand motioning for me too wait. In that case there are some things we should tell you, before you meet her, he said sharing a look with the lawyer. What is it? I responded getting anxious. First is that Rain is very undernourished so please refrain from staring, as she seems to be also very shy. Second... he said pausing while I wondered how bad must she possibly look if they're warning me not to stare? Now it seemed to be Mr. Johnson turn to speak. ...She suffers from the sleep disorder entitled Narcolepsy. It is a disorder that causes her sleep patterns to be disruptive and irregular. Extreme cases like Rain's even have what are called,'sleep attacks' where

fatigue will hit her at random times, causing her to drop to the floor and fall into a deep REM sleep in a matter of seconds. These attacks can last anywhere from a few seconds up to a couple of hours but for Rain they only seem to last for up to fifteens minutes tops. That's why in her records she was labeled as 'home schooled'. Though it would appear her mother and step father were either too high or drunk to actually teach her anything. She's very far behind academically, but her mental capacity is generally normal so she should be able to catch up in time for the second semester. Or you could put her in school in three weeks but assign her a tutor, he explains and I blink as a new layer of shock washes over me. Narcolepsy? Drugs? Home Schooled? It appeared that if I decided to look after this girl I would be taking on a lot more responsibility then even I imagined. Even if I managed to get her health back to par, the chances that she would ever lead a normal life are slim to none, with that kind of disorder. I swallowed the lump in my throat when I thought of what kind of life she was leading till now. How could Mary have kept her out of school and let her starve? Obviously Jonathon's death had affected her more then anymore realized if she went into such a depression to let her life turn out like that. For the life of me I couldn't see her ever turning to drugs and drinking. Anything else? I asked, wanting to get it all up front now. I didn't want anymore surprises down the road. Not that we are aware of, no, he answered seriously. I nodded and he stood up motioning for me to rise as well. Though then I was no longer sure if I wanted to see Rain. Could I even look her in the eye without wanting to bawl, to cry for the life she's lived till now because no one cared enough to step in? Come and I'll introduce you, then leave you to talk, he said walking ahead of me to open the door to which I nodded a thank you. He walked straight ahead to the door across the hall and opened it up again holding it open for me but this time I skipped the thank you as my eyes were too busy scanning the room. My heart was beating loud in my chest in anticipation. I frowned as I noticed something was wrong. I scanned the room twice to be sure but, it was empty. I turned to Mr. Unsworth expecting to see a horrified look on his face, and announce that the child was missing but instead he simply looked sad before he sighed and walked over to the closet. He searched it for a minuted before moving on to a trunk to which he simply moved a couple Items around before closing it. I frowned about to ask him what he was doing when he should be looking for a missing child, when he opened a cupboard on the side of the room. There you are, he exclaimed as he reached inside the cup board and to my horror pulled out a young child with crazy curly blond hair, wearing a guys hoodie, leggings, and convers on their feet. What on earth! I exclaimed walking closer. The closer I got the more my horror grew. Their hands tiny and bony, the legs looked misshapen without muscle or one ounce of fat. When they turned enough that I could see the face I recognized the sunken skeletal look of someone severely starved and my hand flew to my mouth as a small whimper escaped it. It was when I looked into her eyes that I realized who this girl was. This was Rain. This seemingly 10 year old boy was actually a 16 year old girl. I quickly got my self under control as I remembered the warning and noticed her struggling

against his hold slightly trying to get back into the cupboard, her eyes wide and scared. Mrs. Colt this is Rain. Rain this is Mrs. Colt, Mr. Unsworth interceded as he tugged Rain gently in front of him so she was facing me. Well technically her body was turned in my direction but her head was tilted down facing the floor and avoiding everyone's eyes. Painfully shy also seemed to be an understatement. I walked closer until I was right in front of her then bent down slightly. I waited until finally she raised her head and looked into my eyes. Hers looked scared but also curious as she searched my face. I looked in to her eyes that, besides the fear, were an exact copy of my lost best friend and in that moment all my reservations flew right out the window. It became perfectly clear that I was meant to take her home

Chapter 2 Rain's POV

I sat uncomfortably in the drivers seat on the way to the airport. Being uncomfortable had nothing to do with the quality of the car seat because basically, they were the most comfortable seats I had ever sat in. The reason I was uncomfortable was the women next to me. Caroline's warm brown eyes looked kind, and her hands that would pat my arm, shoulder or hair were extremely gentle. And I still couldn't believe she was friends with my mom in high school, because having some kind of connection to my mom, even through someone she knew was very comforting. These things made me want to trust her, but basically she was a complete stranger to me. I didn't do well with strangers. I'd never even really gone out in public, except a trip or two to the corner store or the park. Especially the strangers who came by the house for they scared me more then my stepfather did. I glanced at her again from the corner of my eye and ducked away when I saw her gaze flicker over to me. She opened her mouth and broke the awkward silence for the first time since we'd been introduced. So... we should probably get some more clothes for you, but I think maybe we'll hold off until you put on some weight,she said grimacing making me frown in confusion. I understood what she meant about more cloths...well somewhat. When we showed her my three shirts, one pants, one leggings wardrobe she just about had a heart attack. Though why it was such a big deal was beyond me. It seemed that in her mind it was just a given to own more cloths then that. What do you mean? I asked quietly wanting her to explain what she meant by put on weight. Well surely you can't expect me to just let you go around in three shirts that I'm pretty sure are men's, she said visibly shuddering. I almost smiled that I had guessed right on that account. This person was surely odd. Umm... I meant what you said about 'putting on weight', I explained though now it was her turn to look confused so I continued, It's just the expression is kind of confusing. Would you like me to wear

something heavy? I asked starting out quietly but spoke in normal volume by the end of the sentence. While I spoke I couldn't help thinking that this women was clearly insane. Her eyes widened in surprise before a short surprised laugh escaped her mouth. No dear, I mean you have to eat more and then your body would turn it into fat and muscle, then your body would weigh more. You are undernourished, which means that your body hasn't been getting any of the things it needs to keep you healthy. Right now your body is probably unable to fight infection, you get tired easily even if you didn't have a sleeping disorder, you probably get sick easier, basically if you weighed any less, your body wouldn't be able to function, she said making my eyes widen. Being as skinny as you are is a sickness. You'll have to eat a lot even when you aren't hungry to make your body get used to taking in regular portions, she continued and I remained silent staring at my pants and fingering the fraying ends. Was she saying that regular people ate more then I did, and that was normal? How strange. My mother ate the exact same as I did, though I guess the men in the house ate way more. But my mother said that was because it was natural for guys to eat more then girls. I do admit the people at that place they put me after I was taken from home did give me three plate fulls a day which I only ate about a handful of of it. Surely I was expected to share it and someone else ate the rest. I wanted to ask her what she thought was normal but in the end I couldn't get myself to open my mouth, so I simply nodded. It was quiet for the rest of the drive. I was actually quite excited by the time we reached the airport and was fidgeting like crazy in my seat. Are you nervous about flying, Caroline asked curiously. I was surprised that she actually wanted to know how I was feeling about things so much. I guess I just wasn't used to all the attention, even from one person. Yes, but I'm also kind of excited, I admitted looking at my lap, unable to stop a smile from slipping onto my face. She chuckled and nudged me forward. I was excited... until we reached the inside of the airport. Then I was terrified. There were people everywhere. Bumping into each other, hugging, laughing, and talking. And my goodness it was so noisy I could barely hear myself think. It suddenly didn't matter if I didn't know Caroline that well, as I ducked behind her, glued to her back for protection. Where did all these people come from? I whispered, my voice quivered slightly as my body shook from fear. She grabbed my hand gently from behind her back and held it in hers. She patted me gently on the head and smiled a reassuring smile at me before tugging me forward. It's alright Rain, we'll be on the plain soon. How about I let you sit next to the window? She suggested with a happy smile. She looked so relaxed I tried to relax too but even when my heart calmed down the shaking didn't stop. Getting through all the different parts of the terminal took a little bit of time. But I made it

through, surprisingly. Though I had gone back to walking right behind Caroline and remained that way till we entered the plain. Good thing too or when the sleep attack hit, completely unexpectedly, I might have hit my head off something metal and hard when I dropped to the floor. Apparently I had really tired myself out both physically and emotionally which can both separately cause my attacks. So It lasted most off the flight, which took off as soon as Caroline was able to explain about narcolepsy to the hostess who had viewed my fall. When we got off I felt refreshed as usual and therefor, thankfully, a little more calm when we entered an even more busy airport then the first. But I still found myself glued to Caroline's back until we were finally able to exit the airport. Oh and I forgot to tell you my husband Henry will be picking us up, so you'll get to meet him as soon as he gets here, she said her eyes shining with affection. I wondered how Caroline and Henry got along. If it was anything like my mother and stepfather did then I hoped I had somewhere to sleep where I wouldn't be able to hear them fighting. Caroline must have either guessed what I was thinking or she read something from my expression. Don't worry sweet heart, I know you'll like Henry. Other then the fact that he is practically always late, he has no other faults, she said with a small laugh gesturing to the fact that he had yet to arrive. I nodded trying to give a convincing smile but to be honest I had met enough new people in the last couple days to last me a life time. Yet a few minutes later a man with dark hair and dark blue eyes appeared and rushed up to Caroline wrapping his arms around her waist. I jumped back quickly to avoid contact but watched as he pulled back from hugging her with a reproachful look on his face. I'm so sorry my darling wife for I am late. Let me forever burn from the heat of a thousand suns were I to ever let you down, he said dramatically though something in his eyes looked quite humorous while his expression remained the same. Caroline's lip twitched from obvious amusement but she kept a stern look on her face. I'm not sure if I could ever forgive you. Just think of the damage you have caused me emotionally by simply planting the idea in my head that you may have forgotten about me, she said faking horror. I looked at them curiously, only managing to think that these people were even more odd then I had originally thought. God please let them not be on drugs, I silently pleaded. No I could never, he exclaimed pulling her close, lips to her ear and whispering something that made her blush, laugh and push him away lightly muttering something under her breath that I was unable to hear. Henry however was looking at me in complete shock and something like horror before he realized

he was staring. He then turned back to his wife looking for answers as she turned to me and once again tugged me forward. I was really starting to dislike that. Henry this is Rain. Rain this is Henry, she introduced us. I dropped my eyes and nodded a hello completely unsure of what to say. I fidgeted tugging at my shirt, not liking the attention. I was a lot more comfortable when they had been busy conversing with each other a minute ago. Nice to meet you Rain and welcome to California, he said holding out his hand and smiling gently at me. I looked at Caroline quickly as she gave me reassuring nod. I stepped forward slightly and put my hand in his shaking it quickly before letting go and stepping back again. Well she certainly looks like them, he said to Caroline. I cocked my head to the side wondering who he meant. Yes, those are definitely Jonathon's curls and Mary's eyes, she said smiling at me and it hit me that they were talking about my parents. I couldn't remember what dad looked like much and mom didn't like to talk about him so I never knew that's where my hair and complexion came from. It was a safe assumption though, I thought, because of my mothers tanned skin and straight black hair. I on the other hand with my light hair, pale skin and few freckles on my nose, looked almost nothing like her if it wasn't for my eyes. Well I suppose we should be heading home, Caroline interjected motioning me to follow as she took Henry's hand and started forward as I trailed behind. Did you tell the boys yet, She asked as we climbed into the car. This one was red with dark gray leather seats and about a hundred buttons that I had no idea what they did. Henry nodded running his hands threw his hair. Yes, a little, but not everything you told me when you phoned me earlier. They don't know anything about where she was living before or about her narcolepsy. It might be a good idea to tell Jamie though, he added putting the car into drive. On the way home Caroline and Henry mostly spoke back and forth with the occasional question back to me but I was perfectly happy just listening. There was a lot in there conversation that confused me, especially when they talked about people that I didn't know, but I didn't dare interrupt for fear their attention would turn to me. Staring out the window as the world flew past was mesmerizing. I'd never gotten to see so much. At one point I pressed my whole face against the window hoping to see everything more clearly to which got me quite a few amused glances from people on the street and from the couple sitting in the front seats. Rain I hope your ready to meet the boys. I know they can be a handful but I'll make sure they don't give you a hard time, Caroline called back to me snapping me out of my daydream. The boys? I asked confused. Why would they want me to meet boys. Mom always said I should stay away from boys!

Oh, I guess I didn't tell you yet, she said looking over at me sheepishly. Henry and I have 7 sons, she said smiling. My eyes immediately widened in shock. I was going to be living in a house with 7 boys. Good lord have mercy, I thought.

Arriving at the house I froze as Henry and Caroline left the car. Henry helped with Caroline's bags and Caroline grabbed my bag then frowned when she noticed I wasn't getting out of the car. She opened my door and patted my hand as my eyes seemed to be frozen wide in terror. Rain they're good boys. Trust me everything is going to be okay, she comforted. I looked back at her hoping I would be able to tell if she was lying. She looked completely honest to me. If she was a liar she was a good one. I gulped swallowing my nerves and slowly got up from the car walking slowly to the house putting off this meeting as much as possible. I was almost annoyed at Caroline for making me do this, then blinked surprised by that thought. This women was taking me into her home, feeding me, and showing me a lot of kindness. I should be more grateful. I looked up to Caroline smiling and putt on a brave face. She smiled back seeming relieved. It was time to be optimistic, just because I didn't like people didn't mean I couldn't learn to like them. I liked Caroline and even Henry seemed like a funny guy and they were complete strangers to me. I finally looked at the house torn from my thoughts as my mouth dropped open. This house was beautiful. I couldn't tell you the name of the style of architecture, or how big it was but just from the front I could count eight windows including one large one above the front doors. And I mean doors as in two large planks of beautifully carved wood with two separate knobs right, leading onto a comfortable looking front patio with a porch swing and everything. It even had vines growing across the sides, white flour buds blooming from across them matching nicely with the yellow-brown brick. It's beautiful, I whispered when I was finally able to close my mouth. Caroline smiled again. Thank you, I hope you enjoy the inside as well. I loved decorating it, speaking of which, she said as her thoughts seemed to change direction, I'm going to have to put you in the guest bedroom until your room is ready. It's the only room I really get to make look like a girls room, she added her voice sounding excited and enthusiastic. I suddenly felt bad at all the trouble she was going through. I was about to tell her she really didn't need to do all this for me, but one look at her face and I snapped my mouth shut somehow knowing she didn't see it that way. Opening up the front door I took a big breath and stepped forward, Caroline staying close behind me, especially after witnessing one of my sleep attacks. I noticed the shoe tray and then the nice clean wood flooring and put two and two together. At home I would have never walked around the house without my shoes with all the crap constantly scattered allover the floor. But my old house could never be classified as a nice house no matter who lived in it, where as this house practically screamed money. The

caramel colours on the hallway walls was warm and homey, the floors smooth under my bare feet. A little down the hallway it led off to the stairs on the right, a wall and then opened up from the left into what looked like the living room. Taking one step into the living room I froze suddenly forgetting how to breath. Two boys sat on the couches playing loud, violent sounding video games. One sat on an armchair reading a book and two others who looked exactly alike ran into the room with a toy airplane. When the first one saw me he stopped frozen and almost comically the second one ran right into him and they both fell over. Who's that? the first one to fall asked. Both had brown hair and blue eyes. Get off me, the other one said scowling at the first one after he pushed him off. Boys stop fighting, Caroline scolded putting my bag down and putting her hands on my shoulders. At the sound of her voice the other three turned around, the game on the television froze and the brown haired boy with darker eyes that was sitting in the armchair put down his book. All of their eyes landed on me and froze. Feeling absolutely terrified with all their eyes on me, I ducked my head and backed up a step. Boys this is Rain. Come and introduce yourself, she said squeezing my shoulder reassuringly. Before anyone could move a constant stream of, Mommy mommy mommy mommy mommy mommy..., came from the other room, growing louder. I looked up again just as a very small boy barreled into the room. Caroline stood in front of me just in time to reach down and catch him. Mathew baby, no running in the television room, she attempted to scold but the smile that broke out on her face as she hugged him ruined the effect. But daddy said you was home, he told her pulling the typical innocent face. He was so adorable it was hard to imagine anyone ever being mad at him. His eyes found me and widened slightly. He cupped one off his hands and held it to his mouth so that I wouldn't hear what he said, before speaking at full volume. Mommy is that a girl, he asked her. Before she could respond one of the boys on the sofa with light brown hair interrupted her. No Matt that's about half a girl. She's missing about 50 pounds and 15 big macs, he informed him smirking. Cameron, Caroline sounded outraged and surprised, her voice hard. Cameron shrugged turning back around. That's sick, The other boy with black hair and dark eyes, and glasses said shaking his head before he two turned back to the game. I turned toward the boy with the book who was still looking at me, his face blank. I felt my face flush, not knowing why, but feeling really embarrassed.

C'mon mommy we need some macs so she can be a whole girl, Mathew informed Caroline tugging on her skirt. Caroline sighed giving up on scolding them for the time being. Alright, Rain you can have them introduce themselves later. Right now I'll show you to the guest bedroom,she said nudging Mathew to go into the living room, to which he made a face but crawled onto the sofa next to the one with dark hair and glasses. I nodded, so glad to be out of there, I felt like I could breath again. She led me back through the hallway and up the stairs which curved into a spiral and lead to another hallway and the rest of the staircase. We stepped into that hallway and she pointed to the door on the left with one hand, my bag in the other. Here's the guest room, she announced twisting the knob and motioning for me to go first. I pushed the door open and stepped into the guest room. It had white walls with a painting off the beach on one side, light blue curtains framing a large window, and dark blue and white bedspread. The bed was made so tight you could have bounced a quarter off the surface, everything so clean I was suddenly afraid to take another step. What if I got dirt on the perfectly white carpet? I didn't want Caroline to get mad at me. I bit my lip debating for another second before I heard a sigh. Well go on in, I'm not getting any younger here, she teased. I swallowed and stepped into the room remembering to check where I stepped in case I made a mess. If I cleaned it up before she saw it then hopefully I wouldn't be punished. So what do you think, she asked that same cheery smile on her face just as it was getting awkward. It's very nice, I assured her tugging my sleeves over my hands. Only now did I notice the sweat running down my neck. I was so nervous before I didn't even notice the temperature and climate differences between here and Miami. Alright so there's a bathroom across the hall if you would like to take a shower. I'll grab some of my clothes for you and leave them on the bed, she announced standing up and leaving the room before I could argue. I took a deep breath before opening my door and peeking out into the hallway. Luckily it seemed no one was around and I quickly spotted the bathroom across the hall, the door left open. I checked one more time to make sure no one was coming before bolting into the bathroom and shutting the door. There I breathed out a few times feeling tired. I turned once I got my breath back but choked while exhaling it again. My eyes widened as I looked in the mirror right in front of me. The girl in the mirror's eyes widened as well her face skeletal and pale. Reaching one bony hand forward I froze as she raised one also. It was then that I sort of understood what Caroline was talking about. I did look bad, of course I was never beautiful but perhaps if I didn't resemble a skeleton, I could have been considered cute. After all I used to have my fathers dimples, which was one of the only features about him I could remember. Shaking my head I quickly undressed folding my cloths and putting them on the counter. I

climbed into the shower that seemed almost comically big, perhaps big enough to fit 4 or 5 people. I mean why would you even need to fit that many people in there? I turned both the taps on from habit and jumped when hot water hit my shoulders. I immediately turned that down when I realized which one of the taps was hot and almost wanted to cry when the water went cold. I had never had a hot shower, as my stepfather would have beaten the crap out of me if I used up the little hot water we had. Surely with so many people living in the house they had to be extra careful about how much hot water they used. After squirting a tiny bit of shampoo in my hair and rinsing it out another case of fatigue hit. I opened my eyes to the feeling of water pounding and rolling down my body. I blinked starting to sit up when I felt the familiar ache on the side of me head, slight nausea hitting me before I lay back down. Another unfortunate thing about sleep attacks-if I'm not around something soft 24-7, (which is impossible, without strapping myself to a pillow), when they hit while I'm standing I almost always end up with some sort of head injury. Turning off the water after a few minutes I carefully rose to my feet, my fingers sliding up the wall in an attempt to keep my balance. When I was fully standing I took a breath in relief then groaned as my skull pounded. I would have a goose egg but not a concussion...this time.I stumbled out and quickly searched for a towel which I found in a cupboard beside the toilet. Stretching it out I gasped at how big it was before wrapping it around me. It went past my knees and covered all the way to my neck and was so fluffy I instantly felt guilty for getting it dirty. Shaking my head, I tried to clear my thoughts and think positive. I shouldn't feel guilty for making things dirty because I can always clean them myself. Thinking negatively will only make me tired and then I'll have more sleep attacks, which I really can't handle. Opening the bathroom door I prepared to rush back to my room when I almost ran into someone. Who the hell are you?

Chapter 3 Rain's POV

Even though this boy asked me a question, I just couldn't answer him at the moment. He was the most gorgeous boy I had ever seen. I couldn't take my eyes off him, couldn't even think, as I stood gawking at him like some idiot. He had dirty blond hair that was fairly short but messy leaving his face completely uncovered. My god it must be against some sort of law to cover it up. He was so tall I wondered if I would get a crick in my neck from staring at him. Especially his eyes, so expressive for a boy I could see everything flitting across them. They were a darker blue rimmed with green and framed with lashes so thick on a boy it was unnatural. His shirt clung to his body showing he was no slacker in the workout department either. His whole being practically emanating bad-ass. My god I couldn't seem to stop looking at him. He was just so... perfect. There has to be some kind of flaw somewhere! He seemed unexpressed with my silence and my staring at him. He rolled his eyes and clenched his jaw. Who are you? he asked again, speaking slowly like I was mentally retarded.

I blushed and looked down hoping I didn't make him annoyed with me. Sorry, I'm Rain, I answered not looking up and that's when I realized I was still in a towel. Heat rushed all the way from my neck to my ears from embarrassment. I clutched the towel tighter around me and squeaked turning toward my room and getting ready to run for it. Unfortunately a hand clamped unto the back of my towel forcing me into an abrupt halt. Whoa, hold on. What are you doing here? he asked. I was too embarrassed to meet his eyes, so I stared at my feet. Mrs. Caroline said I could stay here for a while, I said only loud enough for him to hear. Mrs. Caroline? he asked, his tone slightly amused. Can I get changed now? I mumbled tucking my head slightly into my towel.

I heard an annoyed sigh before he let go of my towel and I rushed forward into my room and closed my door as quickly as possible, hoping the ground would swallow me whole. From now on, I'm bringing clothes with me into the washroom. There's no way I'm repeating that little adventure. As soon as my face cooled I turned toward my bed and was relieved and a little scared to see a pile of clothes there. I was relieved I didn't have to put my dirty clothes back on but scared as to what Caroline had given me. I once had a shirt that lay flat on my skin that was very uncomfortable and I hoped she wasn't able to find anything like that. I was much happier with baggier clothing. Unfolding them carefully I was surprised at the soft texture. The shirt was a light blue and slipping it on I sighed in relief as it hung off me loosely. It covered my shoulders and had a round neck. The shorts were white with blue writing across the but and when I put them on and pulled the draw string they fell to my knees. I left my hair as is. Even when my mom used to put it up into a pony tail she would grumble about how impossible it was. It was then, strangely enough that the grief really hit me. She was gone. My mom was really gone. Over the past 8-10 years she hadn't acted much like a mom at all but that didn't mean that I had loved her any less. At least I knew, wherever she was, she wasn't hurting anymore. Maybe she was with daddy somewhere. I sat on the edge of the bed, my arms wrapped around myself as I grieved. Tears rolled down my face relentlessly with loss. I wanted a hug so badly right then as I realized I had no one left to hug. The sobs grew worse until I couldn't stop them, didn't know how much time was passing as I grieved. After a time the tears dried up and I curled up onto my side and closed my eyes. I couldn't sleep, not then, but my mind drifted as if I was dreaming. How could I live with these people? Honestly I was already terrified of them. None of the boys that I'd met wanted me here. Of course neither did anyone at my old home. My stepfather tolerated me but he honestly wished I would just go away, disappear. When a knock came at the door I was so out of it that it made me jump. I hadn't realized how close I was laying to the edge of the bed, that when I jumped I fell right on my tail bone on the floor. After a couple ow's and rolling onto my knees I remembered what had startled me and stared at the door from over the side of the bed like it would magically reveal who was behind it. I decided to stay hidden on the floor beside the bed after a couple second then invite the person inside. Not like I could stop them from coming inside anyway as the door had no lock. What was I going to do, throw something at them and tell them to go away? The boy with brown hair and dark eyes that was reading earlier came in and put his hands in his pockets. He rocked back on his heals looking awkward before he frowned and turned his head back and forth, his eyes scanning the room and his eyebrows turning down in confusion. Umm Rain? he asked quietly. Yes, I answered after a few seconds. His head snapped to where my eyes were peaking over the top of the bed. A tiny smile appeared on his face and he bit his lip like he was trying not to laugh.

What are you doing? he asked. It only then occurred to me that hiding like this might seem kind of ridicules. I slowly stood up but stayed where I was in the room. What are you doing? I asked ignoring his question. We were both silent for a second as he collected his thoughts. After a minute he blew out a big breath of air. Look ummm... I know this must be a really confusing and difficult time for you. Moving sucks. Moving in with a bunch of people you don't know must suck even more. So I just thought maybe you could use a friend, he said shrugging. He look up took a step forward and looked me in the eye, I'm Jamie, he said introducing himself and holding his hand out to me but didn't move any closer. Surprised I looked at him wide eyed. More awkward silence filled the air while he waited for me to shake his hand and I thought over moving closer. Finally when he seemed like he was going to let his hand drop I made up my mind on impulse and walked over gently placing my hand in his. We shook awkwardly and quickly pulled our hands back. Rain, I introduced myself. He nodded and then pointed at the door. I'll just let you... and stuff, he trailed off making a vague motion pointing all over the room. See you at dinner, he announced before turning, I thought he was going to leave but after taking one step he turned back. Oh and my rooms three doors down on the right if you ever need anything, he added before spinning on his heel and leaving the room without a pause. Surprised I stayed where I was, wondering what the heck that was really about. He seemed kind of shy, like he didn't introduce himself or extend offers of friendship very often. Why on earth would he want to be friends with me? Did he feel sorry for me? Or was it just because I didn't know anybody? He did seem like he genuinely wanted to be kind to me. I really didn't do much for a couple of hours. I was too scared to leave the room in case I ran into someone. When the next person knocked I wasn't surprised enough to fall on the floor again but I was surprised. This might be the most visitors I've ever had. Over the next hour from the moment I told her she could come in, the next person's goal became quite clear. Your much too skinny, I'll make you another plate, Maria said after I managed to finish the first. And it wasn't little plate with a couple of fruit. No, this plate was bigger than a frizbee and was packed full of potatoes, cheese, chicken, and rice. She she made me finish every. Last. Bite. Clearly this women was some sort of masochist. But, I tried to object but she was already out of the room. When she first came in she didn't even pause to introduce herself before asking me the last time I ate something. When I said yesterday She looked so appalled it made me almost feel ashamed. Why I should feel ashamed over that, I didn't know. She said that as much as she loved Caroline, she could be a complete airhead. I wasn't sure what that meant either but I didn't dare ask.

Maria came back soon after and shoved a plate with basically the same thing into my lap. Eat up. Henry gave me a protein powder to put in your food to help you put on weight, she explained. I'm really full already I don't think... I started looking at all the food doubtfully. Oh so you don't like my food? she demanded some kind of accent laced through her words. No I love the food... I tried to object again without offending her but she cut me off mid sentence. Good then eat up. You have 3 weeks before school and by golly your going to be normal by then or my name isn't Maria, she announced. And once again she stayed till I finished the whole plate then I laid on my back and tried not to throw up. This time when I was left alone I was so tired I slept until dinner time. When I woke up I sat up right away and waited for the usual dizziness and blackouts but it didn't come. I blinked and realized that for once there was no pain in my stomach, no dryness in my throat, or lightness in my head. I stood up and smiled enjoying this new feeling while it lasted. It was so strange feeling hungry for so long that I couldn't even realize the pain I was in until it was gone. I went down for supper like Maria had told me. Even though I didn't feel hungry, I was already weary enough of her that I knew she would force feed me twice as much if I didn't show. I just hoped that most of the family was out or that I could eat by myself. I think I'd die if I had to sit there for two long with so many people staring at me. I didn't know where the kitchen was so I tentatively went down the stairs and peaked into the room with the television where everyone first was when I walked in. I was relieved to see only the littleist boy on the sofa his eyes glued to the TV. I looked over and saw what looked like a kitchen that attached on the far side of the room. In it were Maria, some older lady with gray and black streaked hair , and Miss Caroline who was chatting away with Maria as she stirred something. C'mon jump! I heard from the television and I looked in horror to see a character look out and prepare to jump out of the window. Oh no!, I gasped when she jumped but let out a relieved sigh when the character started to float out and began to fly. Starting to get sucked in by the movie I walked forward and curled up at the end of the couch, carefully taking a look at the little boy who sat in the very center of the couch. Luckily though he was to focused on the television to pay me any attention and I relaxed into the back of the seat and started watching the television. Rain! Mathew! I heard and jumped at the sound of my name. Oh no! What if I wasn't aloud to watch the television and she was about to yell at me! I quickly got up having learned that hiding only made the punishment worse and walked up to where Caroline was at the edge of the kitchen. It's time for dinner! she announced with a smile and I felt my body relax. She was smiling and bouncing as she walked past me so I knew I wasn't in trouble. Seeing no where else to go and after one warning look from Maria I sat down at the edge of the

table and ducked my head begging to disappear. I could still see from the corner of my eye when everyone else piled into the room. Once everyone had sat down I peeked up and again relaxed a little when I noticed that most of them were ignoring me and Jamie was beside me. Hi Jamie, I said as quietly as possible. He looked toward me looking embarrassed but said hello back to me. I searched the rest of them discreetly and noticed that 2 of the boys were missing. One was the blond I had run into in the hall and the other was the one that sort of looked like him that was on the couch when I first got here. The younger identical boys were on the other side of the table playing mini video game devices, Caroline and Henry sat next to one another at the other end of the table deep in conversation, the little guy who I decided must be Mathew was sitting beside miss Caroline tipping his chair over slightly, and the older boy with glasses was between the twins and Henry, and kept glancing at me frowning and making me nervous. I was almost glad when the food came because it gave me something to concentrate on. If I could finish the whole thing Maria might take it easy on me until tomorrow. Alright, Caroline announced getting everyone's attention. I think now would be a good time to get acquainted with our newest addition, she said motioning to me and smiling encouragingly. Why? Why did she have to put me into the spotlight like that? Is she trying to torture me? So how about everyone announces their name and three things about them that Rain should know, and then she'll tell us three things about herself, she said looking excited. She turned to little Mathew and told him to tell me his name. I'm Matt, he announced proudly making a tiny smile form on my face. Good job honey now how about you tell her three things about you, Caroline encouraged him. I'm five, I like Peter Pan and I don't like pickles, he said scowling at the word pickles. I smiled, unable to help it. That was the cutest thing I had ever seen, and pretty random too. Caroline looked like she was holding in laughter but grinned at him proudly. Good job Mathew! How about you Zachary and then we'll go around the rest of the table, she said cheerfully nodding at one of the twins. I'm Zack, not Zachary or anything else, I'm 10, and this game is stupid, he announced looking bored before he started shoving food in his face. I nodded remembering to call him Zack in the future so I didn't make him mad. I looked at the other twin as he started speaking. I'm Chris, dido on the other names, I'm the cooler better looking twin, and this game is stupid, he finished smirking and putting emphasis on the word is, before pulling his game back out. I'm Jeremy, I'm 18, and I like basketball, announced the one with glasses. I'm Henry, My age is confidential, and I like to watch sports, said Henry who looked amused at his wife. I turned to Jamie to see what he would say.

 My names Jamie, I'm 14, and I like photography, he said quickly. Photography? I thought quickly about what that could possibly be and frowned when I couldn't figure it out, but was too nervous to ask about it. Everyone turned to me and I froze having no Idea what to say. So instead I stuck to the three things I was told about myself. My name is Rain, I'm 16 years old, and ummmm, I said unable to think of anything else to say. C'mon Rain just one more thing. Maybe something someone else says that describes you? A nickname maybe? she suggested smiling encouragingly. Ummm, well my step father says I'm a stupid bitch and a parasite, but I don't know what that means, I said remembering what my stepfather would call me. That's sort of like a nickname right? I blinked as everyone responded. Caroline looked horrified, Henry looked uneasy, Jamie and Jeremy looked shocked and the little kids looked confused. What's a bitch, One of the twins asked. I don't know, my mom wouldn't tell me, I said shrugging but looking down trying to escape the staring. Rain that's an awful word, did he call you that all the time?, she asked looking sad. My stepfather told me that everyday, I told her the truth not knowing what else to say. Well Rain what he said wasn't true and it was awful of him to say so. Why don't you tell us something you like and something you've learned about yourself, she said changing the subject. I nodded confused but didn't want to ask why she hated the word if it made her that upset. I bit my lip nervously and slowly said the first three things I could think of not wanting to offend her again. I'm underweight, I have a sleeping problem, and I like the television, I said and was glad when Caroline looked relieved. What do you like about the television? she asked actually looking interested, while I hoped someone would change the subject and take away the attention. I like the channel were it plays music and people dance, I said honestly my voice getting even quieter. Oh you like music video's? That's cool, she said looking like she'd just discovered something while she smiled so wide I was surprised it didn't hurt. I ducked my head and almost prayed they would ignore me now. Hey Zack how did your karate class go? You and Chris are behaving yourselves right? Henry asked as everyone turned away. I was so grateful I could hug him but settled for going back to my food and listening to Zack go on about Karate. By the end of supper I managed to finish the whole thing making me want to lie down and throw

up. Time for desert! Maria called looking satisfied with my plate. I frowned wondering what the heck she was talking about. The curiosity got the best of me and before I could think about it I leaned over and whispered to Jamie. Desert is that thing with a lot of sand right? I asked cupping my hand over the side of my mouth. A dry Dessert is a place with sand. Desert is sweet food that you have after dinner, he said back smiling slightly. I nodded feeling relieved that I knew what was going on until I realized what he said. You mean we have to eat more? I asked horrified. Th expression on my face must have set him off because he laughed. You don't have too but Maria probably will want you too. I'll make a distraction and you can slip out okay? he asked still grinning. I couldn't believe he was going to help me out of here. If Maria found out she'd probably force him to eat my desert too! Are you sure? I asked not wanting him to get in trouble because of me. It's not a big deal. When everyone looks away duck out, he said and I nodded. Thank you, I said never having had someone do something so thoughtful before. He nodded and picked up something that was left on his plate making me frown before he threw it at Jeremy. It splattered on his face, noodles dripping down his forehead. Now, Jamie said and even though I wasn't sure what just happened I ducked out of the kitchen and went back up to my room. Not wanting to get the bed dirty I lay back on top of the covers but couldn't sleep. After I was sure everyone had gone to bed I wandered around the house, watched television and even danced a little, enjoying all the space and being careful not to touch the remote. In the morning I went and sat in the window of my room and pressed my face against the glass to look outside. Breakfast! I heard being called from outside my room making me jump. I went and sat in the same spot and noticed that only Jamie, the twins, Mathew and Caroline were there this morning. Good morning Rain, how did you sleep? Caroline asked cheerfully. Was she ever not full of smiles and joy or was her face just permanently frozen in that expression? Good, thank you, I said making sure to be polite even though I actually didn't sleep last night. I couldn't most nights but last night I felt even more energetic then usual. Are you sure? You look tired, She said looking concerned. I'm fine, I assured her biting my lip to keep from asking her about the sounds I heard coming from the

walls during the night around 1 am. Rain you are a terrible liar, now tell me what's wrong, she demanded sternly yet reasonably. I opened my mouth a few times and fidgeted with my hands until I just blurted it out. I think you have a ghost, I said quickly then bit my lip as heat rushed to my cheeks. She's gonna think I'm nuts! She blinked a couple times obvious not expecting what I said. She frowned and put down the bowl of fruit that Maria had just brought out along with platters of toast, bacon, ham, and scrambled eggs. What makes you say that, she said curiously, obviously trying to humour me. At around one this morning I heard a bunch of moaning coming from the wall and then there was some banging and a girls voice screaming something, I said staring down as I said it. As it came out of my mouth I realized how ridicules this was. They were never going to believe me! It was quiet for a second before Jamie just burst out laughing which surprised me making me jump. Look I know it sounds ridicules but that's what I heard, I said indignantly. My whole face heated up in embarrassment. Oh we believe you. Well about the noises, but that wasn't any ghost, Caroline said sounding annoyed. Cameron's room is right next to the guest bedroom that your staying in. What you heard was him and a... friend doing something they shouldn't have, Jamie said as he tried to stop laughing but couldn't keep the smile off his face. I was still confused though. What could they have been doing, and at that time in the morning? I wondered shaking my head, thinking that Cameron was really strange. That was it for Jamie who gave up holding in his laughter and broke down practically falling off his chair. I looked over at Caroline who also looked like she was trying not to laugh. I sighed and gave up. These people were really strange. Well, Caroline started when the laughter had died down some, in any case you won't have to worry about Cameron anymore. I'll talk to him, she said and then changed the subject. I was at least glad to hear the house wasn't haunted. By the end of breakfast I was once again ready to throw up. Jeremy had shown up five minutes ago and Caroline had pulled him aside to talk to him. Just as I was about to make my escape upstairs Miss Caroline came back in and waved me over to the doorway off the kitchen where Jeremy was. I looked between the two off them frowning and wondering what was going on. Rain, Jeremy has done a few courses in physiotherapy. So as you put on enough weight to be healthy, Jeremy is going to help you gain muscle and be fit. Often people with Narcolepsy have worse symptoms if they're unfit or under/overweight. So hopefully if we can make your body stronger we can control the

sleep attacks better, Caroline explained. I blinked surprised and a little confused. What's physiotherapy? I asked. Jeremy will explain it to you, she said giving me a nudge toward him before taking off into the kitchen. Feeling awkward and nervous about being left alone with him I ducked my head down and looked at the floor pretending to examine my feet. Come on, he said. I looked up and he nodded his head in the direction of one of the rooms on the left side of the hallway. I followed him slowly into a huge room that was full of different kinds of machines. The walls were covered in mirrors, there were fans running on the ceiling and mats piled up in the corner. This is our home gym, he announced before he walked over to the mats, pulled out two, and put them down side by side in an empty space. He sat down and waved me forward again so that we were seated facing each other. Okay so first of all I'll explain physiotherapy. It's a type of exercising that targets specific muscles in your body, to build them up, or stretch them out to make your body stronger and more durable. For some people it also reduces pain, he explained in a professional yet relaxed sort of voice. I nodded hanging off his every word as I started to understand what Caroline was talking about. So we'll start off by you telling me what your daily routine was like, he said folding his hands together and giving me his full attention. Ummm... well in the morning I would find mom somewhere in the house and I would wake her up and give her a glass of water. Then people would start coming over so I would go to my room. Around the middle of the day my mom would come in with a plate of food for us to share. After that she would tell me to stay in the room and lock the door and I would have a nap. Sometimes everyone would leave the house and I could watch television but most of the time I had to hide in the closet until it was dark out. Then I could go get some water and then go back to sleep for an hour, I said trying to think if I did anything else but I wasn't really allowed to leave the house. Jeremy blinked, his face expressionless while I chewed my lip and tried to think. After a minute I gave up and shrugged waiting for him to speak. He seemed to be concentrating on something until he manged to put a calm expression on his face. Alright, well I'm going to be making up a new daily schedule for you that will involve exercise, weights, food breaks, and breaks where you can read, relax and learn school work. As the time goes on I'll increase the physical stuff but for now you'll... and he continued on to explain the type of exercise and stretches I'd have to do. Apparently everyday for the next couple months I would meet him in here for an hour or so then have lunch then learn school things. Wait. You mean I get to go to school? I asked already getting excited. I'd seen shows on television about school with the friend clicks, the teachers, and the teen drama. I didn't really understand a lot of it but it looked like fun. Yeah, he nodded not elaborating. I couldn't help bouncing up and down and smiling so wide my cheeks hurt. But then my smile faded as I started to worry. What if I couldn't do it? I'd never gone to school before, I could barely teach myself how to read by watching kid shows how could I learn about

math and science and all those other subjects in time for school to start? I'm going to look like a complete idiot and get bullied and... Hey stop whatever your thinking about. Mom will get you a tutor and we'll all be at school with you, so there's nothing to worry about... well except for your sleep attacks but hopefully if we can get you to sleep through the night they'll get less frequent, Jeremy said smiling sympathetically. Why are you being so nice to me? I blurted out then sat horrified at being so direct. He seemed surprised too and we sat in tense silence for a minute. When I could finally look him in the eye to see if I had offended him I was surprised to see he looked almost guilty. My mom told me about you. When we first saw you we thought you were just another shallow young girl with an eating disorder because she was obsessed with being skinny. We didn't know you had been starved and secluded and beaten and most of us jumped to conclusions. Most of the others still don't know. Jamie and I are the only ones who know everything and want to help make this easier for you, then he half smiled at me and I blinked surprised by how good looking he was. Were not bad people really. We want to make things easier for you. And I'm sure once we get used to having a girl in the house and you get used to living in a house full of boys you'll be one of the family, he said patting me on the shoulder. After that I found it a little easier to talk to him and ask questions about this schedule and about school. When we were done talking he suggested we start the physiotherapy and showed me some stretches to start with. He reached over and told me to try to touch my feet. I bent down and easily wrapped my hands under the bottom of my feet and looked at him to make sure I was doing it right. He blinked looking surprised and asked if I could do the splits. After I spread my legs out and slid down to the floor Jeremy whistled. Wow, your flexible. Did your mom ever put you in dance classes or did you just stretch on your own? he asked curiously. I never did dance class but I like to dance, I admitted saying the last part quietly. Dancing was the one thing I had for myself I didn't really want to share it with others. Cool, he nodded then continued on. He had me doing some exercises with the smallest weight for a few minutes and he took me around and showed me the machines and how they worked. After I was so exhausted I just wanted to lay down right where I was but Jeremy insisted I needed to eat. So I followed him to the kitchen and sat in my usual spot, my body hunched over and my eyes half closed. Hey Rain, Jamie said frowning at me. I nodded back at him and knew I was going to sleep very soon. I only managed to hold out until the food was brought out, then my eyes shut.

Chapter 4 Ashton's POV

As I entered the kitchen I noticed the girl that had bumped into me in the hall yesterday sit down next to Jamie. I still didn't really understand what this girl was doing here but truthfully I really didn't care. My mother was impulsive in many ways so I was just going to assume that she brought in some random homeless girl and was going to feed her and take care of her until she was well enough to be released into the wild, just like an injured bird. Sitting down myself I yawned still not completely awake. I don't really sleep well or much thanks to the fact that I was an eighteen year old boy with much better things to do than catch up on beauty rest I didn't need. My sleeplessness was also do to my condition, that tended to make me restless and easily distracted. My head snapped up when I heard Jamie say hi to the new girl. Shy Jamie who couldn't even look a girl in the eye was looking at her with a worried look in his eye. I frowned wondering what on earth could have possessed him to try to make friends with this girl when the answer entered the room. My mother. Of course she would tell Jamie he had to make friends with the new girl. My mind flashed to when I had bumped into her yesterday and how she had ducked her head blushed and run away. The new girl must be as shy or possibly even more shy then Jamie. Figures, push the shy kids together. I snorted somewhat amused and was about to look away when her head suddenly dropped into Maria's home made Macaroni and Cheese. Everyone seemed to freeze for a second before Jamie reached forward looking unsure of what to do. Make sure she can breath, Mom ordered biting her fingernails. Jamie did what he was told and reached forward moving her face to the side and then putting his hand in front of her mouth. After a second he visibly relaxed. She's sleeping but I think she's okay, he announced, Okay? I thought perplexed. The girl just did a face plant in macaroni, how did that equal okay? I could feel my protective side coming out. Of course I didn't even know this girl so I didn't care for her but the fact that she was living here made her one of us. I felt it was my responsibility to make sure

nothing harmed anyone under this roof. I had always felt that way, one of my random instincts that I couldn't control or explain. What happened? I demanded harshly from my mother. She looked over at me with this look that she gave me sometimes as if she wished she knew what was going on inside my head. The thing was I wasn't thinking right now. The need to have everyone okay was instinctual not something I could think over. Rain has narcolepsy Ashton. It's a sleep disorder where the person has what are called sleep attacks, like this, she said motioning to Rain who was still unconscious in the Macaroni, where they are forced to sleep at random times during the day. It can be a rather dangerous disorder when the sleep attack occurs when the person is, for example, on the stairs, or taking a bath, or climbing a ladder. And if someone faints while doing any of those things it's obvious what could happen, she finished looking at Rain sadly. It was quiet for a moment until Cam burst out laughing and we all gave him our what the heck faces. Dude she's sleeping in macaroni. Someone needs to get a camera, he said before pulling out his phone. I was about to either laugh or punch him in the face when Rain sat up looking slightly confused and yawning, her face plastered with noodles and cheese. Suddenly the rest of us couldn't help but laugh too. The bewildered look on her face combined with food all over her, was just too much. Cam laughed even more and was gripping his stomach probably because he was laughing so hard. Jamie was the first one to stop laughing and after Cam managed to get another picture Jamie handed her a napkin and helped get most of the cheese off. Here sweetie I'll get you another bowl, Maria said fighting a smile while she reached for Rain's bowl. No it's okay really. I don't want to waste it and besides it's not like my face was dirty, she pointed out. Maria shrugged looking unfazed but I watched as her gaze almost never left Rain as she ate. Figures Maria would make it her personal mission to put some weight on the girl. I could only imagine how much it offended her to have someone that skinny in the house. I finished my own bowl and left without a word. I didn't want to pay any more attention to the new girl. She would be gone soon enough. Besides it was dangerous for me to let myself start to care for other people, besides my family. I got attached too easily and when I got attached I found it hard to leave them alone. That's why I couldn't sleep around like Cam. Cam could make sex mean nothing and I could not force my brain to think that way. Hey Twin! Speak of the devil... Hey Cam, let me guess, party tonight? I asked the question being rhetorical. Cam parties pretty much every night. To my surprise his face scrunched up in annoyance before he answered. Can't. Stupid girl heard me with Alicia last night and mom is furious, and watching my every move. In her exact words, 'You're lucky the poor girl thought there was a ghost and couldn't figure out what you were really up to or you might have scarred her for life',he finished in a bad imitation of her voice. If you ask me she was over reacting, he added.

Wait, did you say she thought you and Alicia were a ghost? I said feeling surprised and amused. Yup, dumb girls to innocent to know any better, he said shrugging. I burst out laughing for like a minutes straight. When I was calmed down I wiped the tears from my eyes dramatically while Cam rolled his eyes. Yeah very funny. Just tell that to all the disappointed girls, there will be tonight when I don't show up, he muttered sulking. I rolled my eyes and shoved him for being so dramatic. He shoved me back good nature-ly before heading off to his room. When I got inside my own room I pulled out my guitar and fiddled with it for a bit before playing out some cords, and then a few sets. I felt relatively calm which was good and uncommon for me. I tried to keep control of myself so I didn't get angry and flip out on someone who didn't deserve it but accidents happen. My anger was just triggered so easily and mostly by really random things I could rarely prevent it. Usually the key was to stay focused on something, keep my logical brain moving. I frowned thinking of my stupid disease when I struck a wrong cord. I shook it off repositioning my fingers and shaking my head and started when suddenly I was having a hard time thinking and my fingers were in all the wrong places. I tossed my guitar on the bed and kicked the wall. Dammit why couldn't I do anything right?! Can't even finish one damn song! Wait Ashton, calm down, I tried to tell myself but it wasn't working. My head snapped up and I knew what I had to do. I threw on some sweats and went down to the gym, glad it was empty. There was no time before I completely lost it so I skipped the gloves and just started pounding my fists on the punching bag. I could barely feel the pain in my knuckles so it was easy to ignore as I tried to channel my anger. I hated losing control. Why did I have to be such a Freak! I couldn't even play on my guitar without throwing a freaking temper tantrum. What the hell is wrong with me! I hit it again and again on autopilot. I still wasn't paying attention to the growing pain in my hands. I couldn't, the anger consumed me. After 10 more minutes I was finally tired out, my brain able to function once more. The adrenalin was gone too so the pain wasn't dulled any longer as the effects started hitting me full force. I swore as many swear words as I could thing off before I gritted my teeth and inspected my hand. It was bruised and somewhat swollen but I'd had worse. The thing was that since no one but my family knew of my condition, everyone would see the bruises as evidence that I was in some sort of fight. I kind of got a reputation of a bad ass completely by accident. But at least since so many people were scared of me less people were willing to make friends. It was easier to keep most of them away. That way I didn't have to worry about hurting them. I went to the kitchen and got ice ignoring Maria as she gave me worried looks. I didn't want to bother with pain meds because they didn't really work and I wasn't really bleeding so I left quickly after the ice so she didn't try to talk me into letting her look at it. It was embarrassing when she bandaged me up when there was practically nothing wrong. I stopped on the way back to my room when I heard voices coming from the guest room. Curious and needing a good distraction I walked closer frowning and leaning toward the door to hear what they were saying.

 A tutor? I heard Rain ask. Yeah, mom made Jeremy in charge of your schedule and that includes getting ready for school. But since your so far behind and because it's dangerous for you to be going around by yourself, with your sleep disorder, mom thought it was safest to say that your age is 14 and put you in grade nine with me. So in addition to being in your classes I can teach you and help you keep up with your home work, Jamie explained, although it took me a second to recognize his voice. Was he usually so confident when talking to girls now? When did this happen? I frowned when my brain processed another strange thing they had said. To say your age is 14... The way he said it almost made it sound like they were knocking her down a grade, but that didn't make any sense. There was no possible way she could be any older then 13...could she? So I'll be in all your classes? she asked and even from the other side of the door I could tell she was relieved. The shy students stick together I suppose. Oh well, at least now Jamie would have someone other then the geek, the emo, the gay, and the kid who looks like he never hit puberty to hang out with. Add an anorexic narcoleptic to the group and I think he's managed to befriend all the weirdest people you'd ever meet. Yeah my moms already called in and mostly registered you. We just have to go in a couple days before to check over everything, he answered. So what are we going to work on first? she asked sounding nervous. Reading. But mostly we have to figure out what you've managed to learn already so I don't waste time teaching you something you already know, he said and at this point they started to go over school work and I took it as my cue to finish ease-dropping. I pulled away from the door wondering what the heck was going on? They almost made it sound as if Rain had never gone to school before. Even if she was homeless there's no way social services would have aloud her to never attend school... is there? I walked back to my room mulling over the mystery that is our new house guest. I hadn't even noticed how my mood had stabilized as I kept my mind occupied. Them talking about school work had also reminded me that we had a mere 3 weeks before school would start back up again. Had the summer vacation really gone by this quickly? I opened my door and headed over to my phone that I had left on my desk before dialing my friend Caleb. Hey man we're going out to The Barking Spider tonight. See you at 9. Time to make the most out of my summer vacation.

Rain's POV
It's been 2 and a half weeks since I've moved into the Colt's house. According to a very proud Maria I've gained 20 pounds. According to her I've still got more weight I need to put on but Caroline said that she was just relieved I looked so much healthier. I couldn't believe how much my body has changed though. I don't feel like throwing up after eating one plate of food, I don't get pain in my

stomach anymore, and I'm no longer able to see my bones through my skin. After the first week Caroline took it upon herself to pinch my cheeks and pat my head almost every time she sees me. At first I just thought that she had gone crazy and started to worry, now I just ignore her strange behaviors altogether. I've gotten to know the other people of the house better. The youngest is Mathew. He's five years old and really 'clingy', according to Jamie. One breakfast he went so far as to climb into my lap informing me that we could share my plate. I was shocked to say the least but he was too cute to ever refuse so I hesitantly put one arm around him so he didn't slide off my lap and ate with my other hand. The younger twins Zachary and Christopher are pretty much permanently grounded. They do everything humanly possible to try to annoy everyone else. They even started calling me shorty and whenever I have a sleep attack when they're nearby I wake up with pen all over my face. At first I thought it was because they didn't like me so I asked Jamie about it. Oh the twins like you. They only terrorize people they like, he informed me while we were at the kitchen table doing math. But that doesn't make any sense, I argued frowning. Rain, they're ten. They're not suppose to make sense, he pointed out. So for the most part I try to avoid the twins. I was sort of glad that they liked me but it was really difficult to get the pen off my face. Jeremy is 18 and was the big brother I always wanted. He teased me and pushed me to work harder in my exercises, and he was always ready to listen when I needed to vent. Though most of the time I was venting about how evil he was and how he would pay putting me through this torture and things like that, that I would ramble about and he would smirk and laugh at me. Jeremy had a girl friend apparently, but I hadn't met her yet. The house had become my new safe zone and whenever strangers would come over I would hide in my room. I would meet her eventually because from what Jeremy has said she sounded like a great person. He also had me on a strict sleep schedule in order to try to control my narcolepsy. Unless I had a sleep attack I was not aloud to sleep until it was night time and then I had to stay in my room and try to sleep instead wondering the house like I normally would. I tried to follow it but I found it almost impossible to sleep at night which resulted in bags under my eyes and lots of sleep attacks. Jamie is 14 and was my first, only, and best friend. When he wasn't teaching me we would talk about almost everything. He told me about the group of friends he has at school that he would introduce me to. Apparently he went through almost all of elementary school with 2 of them and met the rest about 2 years ago when the switched schools, and now they would all be in the same high school together as well. He also told me about his favorite hobby: photography. He showed me a few of the hundred of pictures he's taken over the last few years and they were beautiful to say the least. He knew how to use all these different prints and settings including how to make some photographs black and white. The only things we didn't talk about were my stepfather because I didn't like to remember him and my mother because I was still grieving her loss. Cameron, who refuses to be called anything but Cam is second oldest and apparently is Ashton's twin. I say apparently because only after 2 weeks of living here did I find that out. I still didn't know much about him except that: 1. You didn't wake him up before noon if you wanted to live, according

toJamie. 2. He had brown hair and brown eyes and looked very similar to Ashton. 3. He was barely ever here because of his busy social life. Ashton, well... to say I didn't have the chance to talk to him would be a lie. He did seem pretty busy but he was home fairly often and his bedroom was in the same hall as the room I was staying in. To be completely honest I was avoiding him. Every time I ran into him I would stand there completely still and gawk at him until he gave me this look that indicated he thought I had a few screws loose, and then turn around and walk away. After the second time that happened in the first week I avoided him like the plague and I hadn't been near him since except for meal times. He was still the most beautiful thing I had ever seen but his behavior confused and unnerved me. Over the last couple weeks I had witnessed him having strange and unprecedented episodes of anger. The strangest things would trigger his anger and then he would disappear into his room to calm down. Ashton confused the hell out of me. You would think with his clear anger management issues that he would just be a freakishly good looking jerk. But it wasn't true. He would spend around an hour a day just playing cars or lego with Matt. He would hug his Mother when she was upset (which was a rare occurrence for her). When he was calm he would play on his guitar, which I could easily hear from my room. I didn't have a lot of experience with music but I thought he was quite talented and I enjoyed listening to him. I shook my head at getting distracted again and dressed quickly in some more of Caroline's old cloths. Apparently because I had put on a healthy amount of weight we would be going clothes shopping today, since school started in under a week. I was still getting used to the Coopers way of life so I still didn't understand why I even needed new cloths as I was perfectly happy wearing Caroline's hand me downs. Caroline looked horrified at the thought and insisted I get clothes that fit properly and were age appropriate, whatever that meant. Apparently this was also a shopping trip for everyone's school supplies so the whole family was going. After I was dressed in a t-shirt that went almost to my knees, and shorts I slipped on some flipflops and went into the kitchen where Caroline and Henry sat with their heads together. Caroline was blushing and Henry had a huge grin spread across his face. I stopped for a second as a thought hit me. Is this what my mom and dad would have been like? I was so young when he died I couldn't remember how they acted around each other. Still I couldn't help but wonder how different my life would be like now if he was still here. Would Caroline and my mom have lost touch or would I have grown up near the Coopers? In a regular house with a refrigerator filled with food instead of alcohol? Would I have been able to attend elementary school like the other kids or would my disease cause me to have been homeschooled where my mom would have actually been teaching me to read and write? I snapped myself out of it before I cried and backed out of the kitchen. I took a minute in the hall to compose myself before I made some shuffling noises to announce my arrival and walked into the kitchen again. Good morning Rain! Caroline practically sang with a smile on her face. I smiled slightly bemused at her constant cheer and returned the greeting with a little less enthusiasm. Are you excited to go shopping? she asked. Yeah, I lied since truthfully I would much rather stay home, but I didn't want to tell Caroline that when she looked so excited herself.

Maria came in soon afterword with waffles, eggs, bacon, and waffle toppings. As usual she gave me a look and kept her eyes on me until I was eating. I didn't know whether it was because she'd thought I'd starved myself on purpose or what but it seemed like she was still keeping an eye on what I would eat. Benji and Milo came in practically glued together tails wagging, tongues practically falling out of their mouths as they begged for food. Benji and Milo were the Coopers 2 golden retrievers. I had only met them on my third day here as apparently Caroline didn't know how I would react to animals as I had never been around house pets before. She wanted to make sure I was settled in first before she introduced them. I was weary of them at first as one had practically stuffed their nose up my but, now I was practically wrapped around their paws. They were so sweet and funny and just plane cute there would have to have been something seriously wrong with you if you didn't love them. They started to give me the begging face from under the table and after checking that Caroline or Henry wasn't watching I slipped them both a piece of bacon just as Jamie walked in. I sat up quickly and tried to look innocent as Jamie sat next to me. He gave me a knowing look that clearly told me I was busted but still kept his mouth shut. You're going to make them fat you know, he whispered chuckling after the twins showed up. Sorry, I just can't ignore them when they look at me like that, I said sheepishly Ashton walked in after that and as usual I ducked my head and focused on eating my breakfast. Jamie gave me a questioning look but seemed to shrug off my odd behavior as usual. One of the reasons he was such a good friend was because he never looked at me like I was a freak, even when I did something that was weird or peculiar to him. Rain! Jeremy called walking into the kitchen frowning. I ducked my head already feeling guilty. Today he had assigned my physiotherapy early because of the shopping trip and I had slept through it. Not knowing how to explain this Jeremy I had hoped to avoid him today in hopes he would forget about it. You shouldn't skip physio. Even if you don't care about wasting my time it'll only come back to bite you in the ass when you get tired out too easily, he said shrugging and my head shot up my mouth dropping open in shock as the guilt doubled. I'm so sorry, I choked out trying to blink back tears as I ducked my head again looking at my plate without seeing it. I couldn't believe that after all he had done to help me out, I had wasted his time. I couldn't believe what a horrible person I was! Woah chill Rain, I was kidding, he said looking surprised. I frowned confused by what he was talking about and started to move around the food on plate as I was no longer hungry. My stomach was tight with guilt realizing how I had taken advantage of this families kindness and given nothing in return. Maybe I should suggest they throw me out on the streets? I mean it was unfair of some legal adviser in Miami to dump me on their doorstep and then expect them to not only put up with me but to be so utterly kind and thoughtful as they had been to me. Jamie I can't believe out of all the things you tutored her about you left out sarcasm. Forget classes, without understanding the teenage mind she won't even make it past first day introductions,he said. I looked up in time to see him roll his eyes with a teasing glint in his eyes. He was blaming Jamie because I didn't understand him? That was totally unfair. Right when I was about to announce that he couldn't blame Jamie for anything and it was my fault for being stupid Jamie piped in.

But I thought you were going to teach her. I mean who knows sarcasm better than you? he shot back grinning which shocked me into realizing something. Their posture was relaxed, their eyes filled with humor, and as they continued to shoot back little (slightly insulting) remarks back and forth, I realized that this was some form of play. I shook my head again at how confusing these people were. I was so used to the horrible tempers of people who were under the influence of alcohol or drugs, that this light teasing was completely new to me. Nobody was mad, which made the guilt in my stomach lessen slightly. I ducked down hoping to stay unnoticed the rest of breakfast and picked at my food trying to eat as much as possible so I wouldn't waste it. Since I hadn't seen him yesterday I could help but shoot a glance at Ashton. My eyes met his and I dropped mine quickly wondering why he was already looking at me. Even better, why did he always look at me like I was some alien from another planet? Was I truly as strange to him as this new life was to me? After breakfast while everyone else was grabbing the things they would need for today's shopping trip, Caroline pulled Jamie and I aside. She then spent five minutes explaining how I was supposed to stick to Jamie's side like glue and that it was Jamie's job to watch me in case of a sleep attack. And if Rain needs to go to the washroom you call me and I'll come in with her, she continued making me blush in embarrassment, but apparently she wasn't done. And if you need to go to the washroom you get Jeremy or Ashton to watch her until you can catch up, she finished. Me and Jamie just nodded along with her so that she knows we were paying attention. As soon as she seemed done Jamie grabbed my hand and pulled me away as Matt distracted her. Mathew how many times do I have to tell you that, that shoe goes on the other foot! I heard her lightly chastise. Jamie and I had also gotten into the habit of holding hands everywhere that we go. So once school starts he'll be able to keep me right by his side. Caroline was going all out with the being cautious and apparently even though the teachers and stuff will all know about my disorder, it's up to Jamie to try to keep it from the students. When I asked why that was important Caroline just said that it didn't matter that much if someone found out but that it was best not to broadcast it. At first, holding Jamie's hand was unnerving and all the hugging that I got from Caroline and pats on the head from Jeremy, the contact was really unnerving. Now I was almost used to everyone touching me so casually and I almost didn't notice when I was holding Jamie's hand, it had become so natural. I started to feel guilty again when I realized just how much of Jamie's time I had been taking up, even more so then Jeremy, and peeked at his face. He was just smiling and shaking his head lost in though. Now that I thought about it he had been smiling a lot more lately, then when I had first got here. I exhaled certain that was evidence that spending all this time with me wasn't upsetting Jamie and let go of his hand to put my shoes on. I tapped the toe of each foot three times to the floor like I always do and then moved to take Jamie's hand. He looked at me confused for only a second before he seemed to shake it off and take my hand to drag me out of the house. I made a face at the blast of heat from just taking one step outside but just tried to ignore it and climb into the Colt's van as quickly as possible, knowing the air conditioning would be on in no time. I climbed into the back with Jamie on my right and one of the twins on his right. Jamie had explained how there had to be a seating arrangement just to keep the twins away from each other and Jeremy away from Cam. One thing I hadn't noticed until Jamie pointed it out was that Jeremy and Cam didn't get along. In his opinion it was because they were so different personality wise that they just clashed. So sitting in front of me was Jeremy with Mathew in his car seat next to him and Ashton on Mathew's right. In front of Jeremy was the other twin then an empty space and then Cam. Henry was in

the drivers seat and Caroline was in the front passenger seat. Apparently this was the only way for the whole family to travel in one vehicle together without accidentally causing world war 3. Mesmerized by looking at the window as the world flew by I didn't talk to Jamie or anyone else. Seeming just as comfortable as me Jamie just continued to hold my hand and lean back in his seat. I didn't feel one awkward moment on the drive there and the chatter coming from the front of car was surprisingly soothing. It was this kind of atmosphere that would almost put a person to sleep but for me being calm made me more awake then anything else and I had hope that my sleep attacks were in fact become less frequent as Jeremy had said they would. Alright so Rain and I have an appointment at the salon. So the rest of you can go to that electronic store across from it. We meet at Mac's Shakes in one hour, Caroline announced once we had piled out of the van. I was partly distracted by the humongous building in front of us, and partly distracted by the inch or so of skin on Ashton's abdomen that was on show for the world to see while he stretched, so it was reasonable to assume I had no idea what she was talking about. So when Caroline took my hand and Jamie gave me a small smile and took off I had no idea where anyone was going. Why did Caroline and I have to separate from the others, especially after the talk Jamie and I got about sticking together? C'mon Rain we can't be late for our appointment, she said tugging my hand so I would walk faster. She seemed to clue in to my confusion and explained. Oh, that's right I forgot to tell you! Well a couple of days ago when I booked my appointment it suddenly occurred to me that in getting ready for school, you should have your hair cut, legs waxed, and fingernails painted. You're still such a tiny thing and your extremely long hair doesn't help to make you look older, so I figured why not give you a whole make-over since we're already getting you a whole new wardrobe, she explained as we walked. I could feel my eyes widen in terror. You're cutting all my hair off! I squeaked. She laughed, which made me certain that she wasn't just crazy, she was evil! Not all your hair sweetie. Just a few inches off each strand so your not almost tripping over it, she said as we walked through clean glass doors into a wide room with lots of chairs and machines and a large desk with a computer. Caroline strolled confidently up to the front desk while pulling me along behind her and informed the lady of our appointments. Not really knowing what was happening I was resolved to just go along with it. For the next hour Caroline dragged me along from person to person and from room to room. First they cut some of my hair off which I actually didn't mind, and had to admit I felt lighter when it was done. Next we had what Caroline said was a manicure and pedicure, which was when they put a whole bunch of stuff on our toes and fingernails to make them look clean and pretty. After that was some kind of ancient torture method where they poured hot glue type stuff all over our legs before putting pieces of fabric over it and ripping it off. Apparently it was just to get rid of all the hair on your legs but I was convinced a couple layers of skin came off with it. After that I was sat in a chair where the person told me they were just going to pluck my eyebrows. Exhausted and terrified I had a sleep attack and when I woke up Caroline informed me it was time to meet the guys. To say I was relieved would be an understatement. Caroline suggested I look in a mirror and see my 'new and improved' self. For the first time today I downright refused telling her I was done and we left the store heading to this place that makes really good milkshakes apparently.

As soon as I spotted Jamie's dark hair as he stood in line with Jeremy I couldn't help it as my feet picked up speed and I ran the last 10 steps and bowled right into him. He jumped surprised as I clung to him burying my face into his shirt. Hey, where's the fire? he asked lightly though I could tell from his voice that he was very surprised and confused but after a moments hesitation he tentatively hugged me back. I didn't answer for a minute as this was my first hug in a very long time,and my very first time hugging someone that wasn't my mom, and I wanted to savor the feel of having my best friend telling me without words that everything was going to be okay. I don't want to go back there ever again, I whispered my eyes wide as I thought of the horrible place I was trapped in for one hours time. I pulled back and grabbed his hand tightly in mine. If they wanted to take me back there they would have to bring Jamie with me. It couldn't have been that bad, Jamie argued. I just shivered in response which made him laugh and tug me forward as the line moved up. Did you have a sleep attack? Jeremy asked. He suggested a few days ago that I should start keeping track of how many I have a day to see exactly how regular they are, what days I have more, what days I have less, and any factors including stress level, activity and food, that may affect that number. Only one, I said and he nodded and turned around just as the server asked for his order. Apparently Jamie and Jeremy were the two selected to grab milshakes for everyone and carry them back to the table. Jamie asked what kind I wanted and I settled for a strawberry milkshake having picked the first one I saw. Once all 10 had been made they put them onto little trays so Jamie and Jeremy could carry them all. In the last couple weeks I had tried a lot of new foods. I had discovered that I liked potatoes the most, with cheese, that I didn't like onions, and that Maria's pasta was so delicious she had won the California pasta bake competition three years in a row. So with all the new foods I had already been forced to try I wasn't at all worried when I took a sip of my strawberry milkshake. The taste exploded in my mouth and was so sweet and creamy I almost went into shock. Wow, the word popped from my mouth as soon as I could separate it from the milkshake. I know right, Jamie grinned before he passed me his. Try some of mine, it's chocolate, he said. I complied and after admitting that I didn't know which one I liked better we switched back and forth until we were both done. Shopping time! Caroline practically sang. I squeezed Jamie's hand in terror. Kill me now, I whispered making him laugh.

Chapter 5 Rain's POV

I might have been joking when I asked Jamie to kill me but I was actually starting to consider it an option at this point. I had vowed to glue myself to Jamie for the rest of the trip. The first thing Caroline does when we reach the first store that she wants to go into?... Jamie honey, you can stay out here if you want, she offered as I could feel my eyes widening in horror. Confused Jamie took one look at the store Caroline would force me into and immediately agreed that, that was a good idea. 10 minutes later after and she had already ordered me to try on 5 different bras. I didn't see the point really. Even after the weight gain there was no vast improvement in the chest area. And if I had no breasts what was the point of having a bra? However, it seemed this logic was lost on Caroline who looked like she was having the time of her life. Seeing how happy she seemed to have a girl around to do these kinds of things, I made myself keep quiet and just let her get it out of her system. After picking out and buying more bras then I would ever possibly need she had me take the tag off one and put it on in the change room to wear under the clothes I had on now. When it was finally time to leave the shop I headed straight for Jamie who was sitting on a bench playing with his phone. I didn't throw myself at him like before but I did grab his hand and hold unto it like he would be taken away from me any minute now. Jamie just smiled, slight amusement in his eyes and stood up so we could follow Caroline to the next store as, apparently, everyone had once again split up and went their own ways. Caroline wasn't done apparently. We went into a regular clothing store next which I dragged Jamie into whether or not he wanted to come. Caroline had already several pairs of clothing in her arms before I took two steps into the shop and it wasn't long before she had me back into a changing room with several pairs of dresses, shirts, sweaters and jeans. The first thing I tried on was a dress, white with a scoop neck and a yellow ribbon around the waist. I didn't bother looking in a mirror and stepped out of the stall knowing Caroline would be right there. She was turned around going through a rack that was just off to the side. Caroline, I called to get her attention. She turned and when she saw me her eyes widened and her hand flew up to her mouth as tears pooled into her eyes. Oh Rain, you look so beautiful, so much like your mother, she gushed which made me feel uncomfortable. I ducked my head as my cheeks heated. Jamie you have to come see! she shouted her voice going to a slightly higher pitch showing her excitement. She was practically bouncing with happiness. Jamie walked in a second later looking curious,

when he saw me his expression went blank for a second as he put his hands in his pockets. Ummm, y-you look... nice, he choked out looking uncomfortable. I blushed again and muttered a thanks before going back into the change room. It continued on that was for three stores and after that I couldn't help but beg for that to be it and Caroline conceded that we should meet up to get a proper lunch anyhow. But not before getting me to change into the first dress I had tried on. It was when we were at the second store while Caroline was picking out clothes that I had my second sleep attack of the day. I tugged on Jamie's hand just as the exhaustion hit me and when I awoke he was holding me against him as if we were just hugging. After a couple blinks I realized that no one was staring and as I took my own weight Jamie relaxed and it was like nothing had happened. We found Ashton and the twins first. Caroline was busy keeping an eye on them, Jamie texting on his phone, so I was the only one who noticed Ashton's expression when he saw me. To say his jaw dropped would be an exaggeration but I did see his eyes widen slightly as they seemed to scan me up and down. Before I could so much as blush he abruptly turned away and kept walking, ignoring me as usual. I didn't know what to think of the look he just gave me. I couldn't deny the giddy feeling or the tiny flips in my stomach that said a tiny part of me did know what that look was for, though. Hey Ash? Jamie called making him look back at us perplexed. Would you watch Rain for a minute? I need to use the bathroom, he said unhooked my fingers from his as they automatically tightened. Whatever, he said but nodded at Jamie to go. He gave me a small smile but turned and left. Suddenly feeling lost I followed behind Ashton who only threw me a couple looks to make sure I was right behind him. Because looking at Ashton was very distracting and I didn't want him to catch me staring at him again I kept my eyes on all the different stores we passed. I relaxed slightly as we all walked and I finally got to see the mall and all it's glory. There were fountains and escalators and stores with spinning lights and sweet smells. The ceiling was high up and the floor made of some type of marble with glass railing to let you see out into the lower levels. I turned my head to the side just as everyone was climbing onto an escalator as something caught my eye. Mesmerized and not thinking about getting caught behind I walked to a window display and couldn't help walking closer until I was pressed right up against the glass. Inside was the single, cutest thing I had ever seen. For the first time I saw something I wanted that wasn't a sandwich or a clean drink of water. I didn't want it because I needed it. I wanted it because of the bubbly happy feeling I got just looking at it. If only..., I thought sadly.

Ashton's POV
My phone buzzed in my hand right before we stepped onto the escalator. Distracted I stepped on automatically before I pulled my phone out to read what it said. Jared: Hey man you'll never believe it! I saw a double rainbow! Ha ha bet you haven't seen the video. I shook my head in disbelief but couldn't help my lips twisting into a smile . A good number of my friends tend to text me ridicules stuff like this all the time and if I didn't know better I'd think they were on drugs. In fact a couple of my friends had tried drugs before but decided it wasn't for them. For Jared, Aaron and Callum it interfered with their sports and possible scholarships. For Jake and Andrew it was more about setting an example for their younger siblings and letting down their parents. I'd never

tried it, too worried about the wild and unpredictable consequences when my mood swings are already so out of control. As we reached the bottom of the escalator I turned knowing I should have been watching Rain. An escalator would definitely be a nasty place to have a sleep attack. So it goes without saying the proportions of my panic attack when I didn't see her behind me. I quickly turned around almost praying I wouldn't see her splat on the floor from falling over the edge and relaxed when I realized she must have never got on it. I jumped onto the one going up and pondered the reasons why she hadn't been following me when she was suppose to. Did she have a sleep attack before and is lying up there unconscious? Was she too afraid to step on them and gotten lost trying to find the stairs? Mercifully it was a fast ride and I quickly scanned around when I didn't see her right away. I walked a bit to my right scanning when a small figure with golden curls caught my eye. I walked closer and sighed when I recognized her. She was practically glued to the glass of a window display which made me shake my head in disbelief before the anger came. I had worried and given myself a panic attack all because some stupid girl saw some shoes, or some dress or some other crap that she liked. Rain!I yelled and a little of my anger ebbed when I saw her jump in fright. What the hell did you think you were doing? You can't just take off on us like that! Cause whether you like it or not you are our responsibility... I started off yelling then got quiet as tears pooled in her eyes but she blinked them off. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, I didn't even realize you guys had moved, she pleading her face the picture of guilt. You can't just...I was about to continue on with my lecture when I noticed what had caught her eye. There was soft looking yellow teddy bear in the window with a red ribbon around it's neck and it's mouth drawn in a smile, Above it was the store logo of a little girl with pigtails hugging a bear until the stuffing came out with a big smile on her face. Surprised I looked at Rain in time to see the red tinge travel up her face as she blushed and ducked her head almost ashamed. I guess we better catch up the the others. I need to apologize before Caroline gets worried, she said as she turned towards the escalators. I blinked as I realized my anger was gone and suddenly I was the one feeling guilty. I had completely ignored her when Jamie asked me to keep an eye on her. If something bad had happened to her it would have been my fault. I was angry with myself for being irresponsible and I took it out on her. C'mon, I said taking her hand quickly ignoring how warm it was or how soft and delicate it felt against mine. She seemed shocked speechless as I pulled her along and gently onto the escalator I made sure to keep her close this time no matter how having her close now seemed to affect me. I couldn't think straight, and I just felt completely distracted...and a number of other emotions I didn't even want to analyze to closely. Just because she no longer looked like a child in her new clothes, didn't mean I would suddenly develop feelings for her though so I had to stop worrying about getting attached. After we met up with my mom I cut Rain off before she could apologize and just said something vague about her seeing something interesting in a shop window. My mom relaxed and turned right back around without a second thought. After all I was usually the responsible one, what was there to worry about? After Jamie had returned and latched onto Rain I muttered something to my mother about

something for school before I turned back around and headed for the direction we came from. I had to make it up to her.

Rain's POV
I was in deep crap. Ashton was furious with me and once he told his parents that I had taken off on him they would kick me out for sure! It probably serves me right for getting distracted like that. With all the trouble they were going through because of me the Colt's should kick me out...but. But I really really wanted to keep living with them. Jamie was such a good friend and I cared for him so much already. I had so much fun talking and being around him. And oh what it felt like to be full! I could actually describe myself as healthy for the first time in years and I felt good. Young and energetic and full of possibilities. While I stressed I clung to Jamie's hand, my grip tight, showing my stress. I still wasn't exactly strong though so Jamie probably couldn't tell the difference. He glanced back at my face and his face turned into a frown showing that even though he couldn't feel my thoughts, that they were displayed right across my face. I blinked before concentrating on making my face look calm. I gave him a small smile. He smiled back but I could see he still knew something was wrong. When you spend more then 2 weeks with someone 24-7 I suppose you got used to them pretty quickly and now Jamie could read me like a book. What's wrong Rain? he asked quietly tugging me back a little so everyone else was far enough ahead that they couldn't hear. It's just... I bit my lip and looked into Jamie's worried eyes and gave in. I got distracted while looking into a shop window and lost Ashton and the others. I made Ashton really mad at me for taking off while he was watching me and it just made me realize how much I've been taking advantage of all the kindness you're family has shown me, I admitted looking down. I'll kill him, Jamie said, which was the last thing I expected coming from his mouth. What? I asked positive I heard him wrong. Rain you are in no way taking advantage of us. You're an amazing person who was put in a bad situation at a young age and we just want to make you're life better, he said softly pulling us to a stop and grabbing my other hand so he was holding them both. But why? I asked shaking my head, still not understanding. Because that's what family does, he said with complete conviction. I could feel moisture in my eyes but blinked it away knowing it would make Jamie uncomfortable. They really excepted me that easily? I couldn't imagine what I could have done to deserve this but I swore that one day I would make it up to them. Which brings me to my next point. It was Ashton's fault that he lost you not yours. He said he would watch you, so he should have been paying attention. You could have had a sleep attack, or been kidnapped, or gotten lost, Jamie said frowning. I blinked surprised. He thinks it's all Ashton's fault?