Interference: Book One Read online

  My eyes widened in shock. Coach Rogers and Neela made their way over to me with sympathetic smiles.

  “Don’t take it personally, Mercy. Kellan has severe anxiety when he loses to anyone. Giving you five at the end of the match was a huge step for him.”

  “Why didn’t you tell me? I would have gone easy on him and let him win.”

  “Now that wouldn’t help him, would it?” Coach patted me on the shoulder and followed after Kellan.

  “You were amazing out there!”

  “Neela, I’ve never seen anyone that strong. Kellan destroyed his racket. He must have been holding back on the court.”

  Neela bit the side of her lip, then covered her unease with a smile. “I think his temper got out of hand after losing. Coach is right, Mercy. This is good for him.”

  “I hope you’re right.”

  “I am, trust me. Try not to worry. We haven’t had anyone around in a long time to give him a run for his money. I’ll, um. I’ll meet you for lunch?” She turned to leave, not waiting on my response.

  As everyone filed out of the room, I turned—my gaze traveling over the courts, recalling the match.

  Fear prickled the back of my mind as the realization hit me. I wasn’t shielding myself like I normally did when emotional or frustrated. It was dangerous. They would see right through me, know I was different, then I’d never get out of there.

  5

  ⥈

  After the match, I walked next door to the large indoor pool. Sitting on the side, I slid my shoes off, then socks, before slipping my feet into the cool water. Something about it calmed me. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, filling my lungs to capacity.

  “Everything alright?”

  I jumped, then exhaled at the sight of Drake standing beside me. “I’m good.”

  He nodded thoughtfully, then walked over to where I sat. “Heck of a game. Have you always played tennis?”

  Why did he make me so nervous? “Tennis, basketball, swimming . . . Anything that will keep my mind occupied.”

  He nodded, as if he understood. His dark gaze penetrated a piece of my soul that no one had reached in . . . forever. My senses were all of a sudden consumed with Drake. Did he know the effect he had on me?

  “Occupied, huh?” he asked. “Are you the type that needs to stay busy?” He smirked as if joking, but somehow I knew it was a serious question.

  “Aren’t we all?” I asked.

  “Nope. There’s nothing I love more than to retreat to a quiet place and think of nothing at all.” Drake stared out across the water without looking at it. “Thoughts. Feelings. Pain. Just close your eyes and breathe until there’s . . . nothing.”

  I exhaled. “That sounds—peaceful. I wish I could, but I’m not that person. I like to keep my mind and body moving. I struggle to stay still.”

  Drake narrowed his eyes above me. “What are you running from?”

  I jerked my head back, surprised by the question. “I’m not running from anything.”

  He chuckled as he turned away, but I could hear his faint whisper as if his mouth grazed my ear. “You’re running.”

  . . .

  My toes glided through the water as I contemplated Drake’s words. Was I running from the inevitable? Whatever set me apart from the others simmered, threatening to boil over at any moment. Did he know that? Did Fitz? Fremont obviously didn’t operate like an institution, but what were they exactly?

  I glanced up at the clock and knew I’d have to meet Neela soon, but I couldn’t eat lunch smelling like sweat. The doorknob to my room squeaked as I turned it slowly. Light from the hall spilled into the dark bedroom, and I closed the door swiftly to make my way to the shower. I tip-toed past my new roommate, still asleep. The last thing I wanted to do was wake her. I had the romper I’d worn that morning, so thankfully I didn’t have to dig around for clothes.

  I stepped out of the shower, putting my hair into a bun, and stepped back into my clothes. I stared at the reflection in the mirror, and it almost felt a little odd to see an unfamiliar smile on such a familiar face. The guild wasn’t unbearable. Of course, the only thing I had to compare it to was living with my mother.

  Sneaking out of the bathroom, I jumped at the sight of Nora, sitting on her bed with her head down. A sheet of pale blonde hair hung loose like a curtain. Her thin, hunched frame shook all over—whether from cold or fear, I didn’t know.

  “Oh, you scared me. I’m sorry if I woke you,” I whispered.

  Silence.

  “My name is Mercy. Is there something I can get you?”

  Silence.

  I squatted down on one knee in front of her. “I’m new here also, so I understand if you want to be alone—but, if you need anything . . .”

  The pale blonde head slowly raised. My breath caught in my throat at the sight of her sunken cheekbones, fair skin and light blue eyes that were rimmed with the darkest circles I’d ever seen.

  “Pain,” she whispered.

  “Pain? You’re in pain?”

  “No. You. You carry so much pain. I can feel it.”

  I stood up, the move making me stumble backward.

  Nora watched me, her eyes absorbing every move, every expression as if I fascinated her. She tilted her head, curiously. “You have an honest heart. It’s sad that no one has cared enough to notice.”

  I took another step back, hitting the wall behind me.

  “Don’t be afraid of me,” Nora whispered.

  “How do you know anything about me?”

  “You don’t have a clue, do you?” She studied my face intently. “How difficult it must have been growing up in the dark. You don’t know.”

  I stepped forward. “Know what?”

  Nora’s silence cut through the air between us like a knife. Tension coiled in my shoulders as the seconds passed, waiting on her answer.

  She whispered, “I think I need to lie back down.”

  Nora curled up in the center of the bed and closed her eyes. Within seconds, her breathing evened out and I knew she’d fallen asleep.

  I backed away from her bed as if she’d wake and attack me. She honestly didn’t appear dangerous, but the tone in her voice caused an icy chill to run up my spine. How did she know anything about me? My mind focused on the ultimate question—who were these people and what were they capable of?

  . . .

  “You’re saying she could read your mind?” Neela asked while walking around the courtyard after lunch. Her forehead wrinkled in confusion, but her eyes weren’t surprised. Not even a little.

  “Not exactly. It was more than that.” I shook my head. “It’s hard to explain.”

  “She sounds exhausted and confused, Mercy. I wouldn’t worry about it. I’m sure things will all make sense soon.”

  “What do you mean?” I asked.

  Neela looked down at the ground, uncomfortable. “I mean, I’m sure you’ll figure her out. You know, living with her and all.” She cleared her throat and changed the subject.

  Neela had shut down on me. Again.

  “How’s your classwork?” She asked.

  “Almost finished. Fitz is helping me apply to college. I never thought it would be possible. Then again, I never imagined any of this. One day, Mom forced me to leave for Fremont—the next, I have college plans and friends to talk to.” I nudged her elbow and she grinned.

  “I’m glad you’re here, Mercy. Not as glad as others, but I’m still pretty high up there.” Neela chuckled and wagged her brows.

  “Ren.” I sighed.

  “Not just him, Sister.” She nodded toward the second story window where Drake stood—watching me.

  I narrowed my eyes. “Don’t start.”

  Neela snickered. “Alright, I won’t say anything. But neither of you are fooling anyone.”

  . . .

  After Neela left for therapy, I sat outside for hours. Although a crisp wind blew through the air, the warmth of the sun renewed me—relaxed me. I closed my eyes, thinking
of how far I’d come. In one week, my future felt brighter and the loneliness subsided. The people surrounding me felt like friends, like I belonged with them.

  A small stem of self-assurance gradually blossomed into confidence. No matter the obstacles, I would overcome the fear and allow myself to be happy. I didn’t have all the answers, but I knew it was a good start.

  Dinner would be served soon, so I headed back toward my room to check in on my roommate. Maybe she was confused. Maybe she could read my mind. Either way, being different was something I could relate to and I would make the effort to get to know her.

  When I entered the room, the petite blond sat hunched on the side of her bed. Her dark rimmed eyes, slightly brighter than when I left, peeked up in my direction.

  “I wanted to check on you—see if you need anything.”

  “I don’t think so, but thank you, Mercy. I’m Elinora James. You can call me Nora.”

  Her words from before echoed in my mind. I shook off the questions and reminded myself to give her a chance. “I’m headed to the main hall for dinner. Are you hungry? Thirsty?”

  Nora shook her head. “I don’t think I can eat. I don’t feel well.”

  “Can I bring you something?” I offered.

  “That would be nice, thank you.”

  I nodded, backing up slowly toward the door. “I’ll be right back.”

  I walked toward the main hall, hoping to find Fitz or Elise. I didn’t want them to think I’d gone back on my word—especially if they saw me carrying food to my room. Luckily, they were sitting together at a table when I walked in.

  “Mercy, how are you? Don’t forget you have therapy with Dr. Lee after dinner,” Elise reminded me.

  “I’m good, thanks. I wanted to make sure it would be alright if I ate in my room today. Nora is awake and doesn’t feel up to walking around yet.”

  “So, you’re having dinner with her?” They looked at each other skeptically.

  “Yes, if that’s alright.”

  “I think that’s very kind. Stella is sorting the trays, so let her know.”

  I walked over to nurse hag and informed her I needed two trays to go. She eyed me up and down then cut her eyes toward Elise. She grumbled as she turned to pack our food.

  “Make that three,” a voice called out.

  I turned to see Neela waiting.

  She winked. “I’m coming too.”

  I hoped Nora would appreciate getting to know us without everyone around. She seemed so . . . emotional. As we entered, Nora looked up, brows pulled together, inching back in her bed as if she were afraid. She and Neela stared intently at each other for a few seconds, as though they were having a silent conversation. Nora’s face relaxed, and the tension left her small frame.

  Neela piled up on my bed and we ate silently for a few minutes, until the lack of conversation became awkward.

  “Do you have a big family, Nora?” I asked.

  “Yes. I hate my family.”

  I felt the sting of those words deep within my chest.

  I sighed at the thought. “I know what that’s like.”

  “Yes.” Nora glanced up, deep in thought. “I believe you do.”

  Again, her ability to see right through me left me feeling somewhat emotionally violated. I attempted to focus on Neela.

  “What about you, Neela?” I asked.

  She grinned. “I’m lucky. I have very supportive parents and siblings. Two older brothers, so I’m their princess.” Although there was happiness in her tone, she looked away as though it was difficult to talk about.

  “I have a sister,” Nora said quietly. “She’s the princess in my family. The normal one. The pretty one. The child that makes my parents proud. I’m here at Fremont now, so I’m not tarnishing their country club reputation.” She took small bites of her sandwich, but didn’t seem present. Her eyes were heavy—her mind consumed with thoughts she didn’t share.

  “What types of things do you like to do?” I asked.

  Nora glanced up, and an expression of surprise crossed her pale face. “I’ve never been asked that before. I guess . . . I like to read. A good story can quiet the emotions. It can get overwhelming at times.”

  Her answer confused me, but I didn’t push for details. Neela offered her information about the book collection in the library downstairs, as well as the activities lounge, and the quiet spots to read in the building. I made a note of these for myself in case I needed to get away. After checking the clock, I excused myself so I didn’t miss my therapy session.

  Before closing the door, I glanced back at the two girls piled up on the beds—whispering. Something strange bonded them, but I’d never had friends before and the possibility of it drowned out the peculiar way they seemed to connect. I smiled—just thankful to have someone to talk to for the first time in my life. I didn’t care how strange they seemed.

  . . .

  How long had I been sitting in Dr. Lee’s office? He asked the same questions Fitz did, but Dr. Lee asked about my nightmares. Fitz only asked if I slept well.

  “How did you know I’m having nightmares?” I asked.

  He glanced down at my file. “Well, it must be here in your chart from where we discussed it earlier.”

  “We’ve never discussed it. I’m sure of it.” I hadn’t told anyone about my nightmares.

  “Does that mean you still have them?”

  I didn’t answer.

  He sighed, as if I exhausted him. “Talk to me. Please.”

  “Yes, I’m having nightmares.”

  “Do you want to talk about them? Are they the same every time? Are you hurting anyone in your dreams?”

  My mouth fell open. “Why would you ask me that?”

  “Because of what happened with your mother.”

  I sat up straight, defensive, even though I knew he was right. “I would never hurt my mother. You don’t know what you’re talking about.”

  “Then tell me what happened. All I have is her report.”

  “Fine. I got upset, that’s all. She said some truly horrible things to me, and I felt like my insides were about to explode, but I never touched her. She chopped her fingers off by accident. You have my word.”

  He leaned back in his chair, his hand rubbing back and forth along his chin. “And the problems at school?”

  I swallowed as sweat beaded across the back of my neck. “What problems are you referring to?”

  “The gym explosion. Fights. Unexplained broken noses.” Dr. Lee picked up the file in front of him. “A volleyball came out of nowhere and knocked a girl to the ground. After she stumbled to her feet, she tripped and broke her tooth on the gym floor.”

  “Alaina was always tripping over her own two feet. I had nothing to do with that,” I said, defensively.

  He raised his brows in question. “And the volleyball?”

  My eyes traveled to the window, away from his penetrating gaze. Was I responsible for it? Alaina was only happy if I left the gym in tears. I recalled the emotion bubbling up inside at her every word that day. That’s all I remembered—I shook my head as I continued to study the gray skyline. “I don’t kn, I mean . . . I didn’t mean to,” I whispered.

  “I believe you, Mercy. I believe you.” Dr. Lee sat up straight and lowered his voice. “Look, I know this is hard. I only want to help you. Sometimes Fitz can be hard to talk to, so just know you can come to me. No matter what, alright?”

  I nodded. “Thank you.”

  “We’re going to be good friends, Mercy. I just know it.”

  6

  ⥈

  Community service. Why did I have to do community service? I didn’t do anything wrong. Fitz said it wasn’t punishment. Fremont offered several hours a month to the surrounding neighborhoods. It felt like punishment. Every week, he sent three or four to an area that needed attention. We were assigned to clean up trash and create a more appealing environment.

  Whatever. This wasn’t in the brochure.

  I couldn�
��t believe I’d been at the guild for almost a month. Most of my time was spent with Nora and Neela, although I’d grown quite fond of my time on the court with Kellan. It thrilled me to have friends for the first time in my life. We’d walk along the back lawn, chatting about recently read books or the latest gossip between residents. I couldn’t remember a time I felt so normal—so included. I continued to fend off Ren’s advances, mainly because my connection to Drake only strengthened. I didn’t understand it, but I also couldn’t ignore it.

  We’d run into each other in the library on occasion, especially on those crystal clear nights when the stars begged to be noticed. That’s when I would find Drake, laying on his back underneath the sky. Peace surrounded him during those moments and made him even more attractive. We didn’t speak more than a few minutes at a time, but I fought to break away—to leave the connection behind.

  It didn’t matter how far apart we were or how much we tried to avoid it, our eyes always found the other across the room. When he did get close, I felt a stirring inside. As if the control I kept over the darkness within wavered in his presence. Like fuel on a fire.

  Seeing him with Cassie felt wrong and I fought to hide my jealousy around her. On top of that, the storm clouds did nothing for my mood. My stress heightened when it rained, and then I couldn’t seem to climb out of the pit I’d dug. Although surrounded by company I enjoyed, I still felt disconnected from an essential part of myself.

  I had completed most of my school work to graduate, so that accomplishment helped my mood somewhat. After finals the following week, I would be ready to apply for college. True to his word, Fitz dropped a dozen college applications off at my door that morning. How many people could say they finished their senior year in a mental institution?

  Exactly.