The late-night flight had been turbulent, with the small aircraft bucking and swaying through pockets of relentless turbulence. Jessica had tried to sleep, curled up uncomfortably in her window seat, but every time she drifted off, the plane would lurch violently, jolting her awake.
Now, as they neared their destination, Jessica found herself trapped in a vivid nightmare. In the dream, she was back in her childhood home, her small feet padding quietly down the darkened hallway towards the kitchen. She could hear a strange noise, a crash that had pulled her from her restless sleep.
"Mom?" she called out, her voice small and trembling.
When she reached the kitchen, a strangled scream caught in her throat. There, looming over her mother's lifeless body, was a shadowy figure–a man with cold, unforgiving eyes and a twisted smile that sent terror shooting through Jessica's veins. He wore a dark hooded sweatshirt, cloaking his full features.
In his left hand was a knife, a kitchen knife coated in blood… Her mother’s blood!
"No!" she cried out, hot tears streaming down her cheeks. "Mom, no!"
The figure turned towards her, his movements slow and deliberate. Jessica tried to run, to escape the nightmare, but her legs felt leaden, rooted to the spot.
"Hey there little pudding," the man purred, his voice laced with malice. "Isn't it past your bedtime?”
A sharp gasp escaped Jessica's lips as she jolted awake, her heart racing. She found herself back on the plane, Salina's concerned gaze locked on hers.
"Jessica? You okay?" Salina murmured, reaching out to give her arm a gentle squeeze.
Jessica blinked, momentarily disoriented. "I... yeah. Just a bad dream, that's all."
Salina's brow furrowed with worry. "The same one again? Chickens chasing you through a dark hallway?”
Nodding mutely, Jessica glanced out the window, watching as the sparkling Caribbean waters came into view. She tried to push the haunting images from her mind, to focus on the promise of sun and sand that awaited them. But the lingering unease refused to dissipate, a foreboding feeling that refused to be shaken.
She didn't want her best friend to know the truth, the veritable nightmare she kept all those years in the past. Yet, it felt like it was coming back to her since she boarded the plane. But why?
"We're almost there," Kevin murmured, leaning across the aisle to offer Jessica an encouraging smile. "Just wait until you see this place. It's like something out of a magazine."
Jessica managed a weak smile, desperately hoping that the island paradise would indeed be the refuge they all so desperately needed.
*****
As the boat glided across the waves and the sprawling resort came into view, Jessica felt a cautious sense of optimism take root. The expansive grounds, with their pristine beaches and towering palm trees, looked like the perfect escape from the horrors they'd faced back home.
"Can you believe this place?" Salina breathed, her dark eyes wide with wonder. "It's like something out of a dream."
Jessica nodded, her gaze swept across the gleaming white buildings and the azure waters that seemed to stretch on endlessly. For the first time in what felt like ages, she allowed herself to relax, the tension in her shoulders melting away.
"I can't wait to hit the beach," Kevin chimed in, his voice tinged with excitement. "No monsters, no ghosts–just sun, sand, and relaxation."
Jessica managed a small smile, bumping her shoulder against his. "Sounds perfect. I think we all deserve a break, don't you?"
Mrs. Lebowski gave her a wink and said, “Of course I deserve a break when I work in an office full of nosy animals.”
Jessica chuckled. She knew that Kevin’s parents were veterinarians, and she could envision the challenges they faced daily while caring for other people’s animals.
As they docked and gathered their luggage, Jessica allowed herself one last glance back at the open water. For a moment, she thought she saw a flash of movement in the distance, but she whiffed it off.
No more monsters, she told herself firmly. This is our time to recharge.
*****
The resort lobby was just as lavish as the exterior, all gleaming marble and towering palm trees. Jessica's eyes widened as Mr. Lebowski and Mrs. Lebowki strode up to the front desk, his wallet already in hand.
"Reservation for the Lebowski family," he announced, flashing the receptionist a warm smile. "And we've got two additional guests joining us–Jessica Trumblelee and Salina Carpenter."
The receptionist's fingers flew across the keyboard, her cherry-red nails clicking against the keys. "Ah, yes, here we are. Two rooms, ocean view suites." She handed over a pair of keycards, her gaze lingering appreciatively on the teenagers. "Enjoy your stay and please let us know if there's anything we can do to make your vacation more enjoyable."
As they made their way to the elevators, Jessica couldn't help but feel a little self-conscious. She knew they were an odd trio–the bookish nerd, the goth outsider, and the socially awkward girl who had just recently joined the cheerleading squad. But here, surrounded by the sun-kissed, effortlessly cool vacationers, she felt suddenly very out of place.
"Cheer up, Jessica," Salina murmured, bumping her shoulder. "This is our time to shine."
Jessica managed a small laugh, trying to push down the nervous flutter in her stomach. "Easy for you to say. You've always owned the whole 'dark and mysterious' look. Me, on the other hand..."
"You're rocking the beach babe vibe," Kevin chimed in, earning a playful shove from Jessica.
"Shut up, Kevin. I'm not trying to be anyone's 'beach babe.'"
The elevator dinged, and they stepped out onto the fourth floor, following the signs to their rooms. Jessica couldn't help but marvel at the plush, airy décor, all crisp whites and splashes of tropical color.
"Alright, ladies," Mr. Lebowski announced, handing over the keycards. "Your room is just down the hall. Kevin and I will be right next door if you need anything, okay?"
"Thanks, Mr. Lebowski," Jessica said gratefully, already feeling the tension melt away.
As soon as the door closed behind them, Salina let out a delighted squeal. "I can't believe we're actually here! This place is unreal."
Jessica couldn't help but agree, dropping her bag on the pristine white bed and wandering over to the balcony. The view was breathtaking–endless azure waves that seemed to stretch on forever, dotted with the occasional sailboat or snorkeler. She leaned against the railing, inhaling the salty ocean breeze.
"You know, I think I could get used to this," she murmured, a small smile tugging at her lips.
Salina sidled up next to her, dark eyes sparkling mischievously. "Oh, I know you will. No more supernatural drama, no more freaky monsters–just sun, surf, and zero responsibilities."
Jessica felt a weight lift from her shoulders at those words. For once, she didn't have to worry about a bloodthirsty vampire or a werewolf. This was their chance to be normal teenagers, to enjoy a real vacation without the looming threat of the unknown.
Soon after they unloaded their stuff from their luggage, the girls took turns changing into their bikini outfits in the bathroom. Salina wore a black bikini and a black sun hat, revealing her beautiful white skin.
Jessica, naturally, chose the antithesis of Salina’s attire; a pink bikini. It may have given her a Barbie-like appearance, but candy colors were Jessica’s favorite.
"Race you to the beach?" Salina challenged, already darting towards the door.
Jessica laughed, hurrying after her. "You're on!"
*****
The warm sand felt heavenly between her toes as Jessica sprinted towards the water, her laughter mingling with the crash of the waves. Kevin wasn't far behind, his lanky frame in black swim shorts surprisingly nimble as he raced to catch up. For a few blissful moments, Jessica felt completely free of the horrors she had endured.
As she waded into the turquoise surf, the cool water lapping at her calves, Jessica caught sight of a group of teenagers a little further down the beach. A tall, athletic woman with long, dark hair, clad in a red bikini, was instructing a muscular young man with dreadlocks, who was wearing Hawaiian shorts, on the correct technique to catch a wave. Jessica watched, fascinated, as they moved together in perfect sync, their sun-bronzed skin glistening.
"Hey, check it out," Salina murmured, sidling up beside her. "Looks like we've got some local talent."
Jessica nodded, unable to tear her gaze away. There was something captivating about the way the two moved, their bodies graceful and powerful all at once.
"Think they'd let us join in the fun?" Kevin asked, his eyes fixed on the pair.
Salina smirked. "Only one way to find out."
This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.
Before Jessica could protest, Salina was already striding down the beach, waving enthusiastically. The dark-haired girl turned, her smile widening as she caught sight of them.
"Hey, there!" she called out, her voice warm and friendly. "You guys new around here?"
"You could say that," Salina replied, her signature sass already on full display. "Mind if we join the surf party?"
The girl laughed, her white teeth flashing brilliantly against her sun-kissed skin. "Not at all! I'm Frankie, and this is my boyfriend, Damon." She gestured to the handsome boy beside her, who offered them a laid back nod.
"I'm Salina, and these are my friends Jessica and Kevin.”Despite the chill in the air, Salina maintained a smile on her face.
Jessica felt a flutter of nerves as Frankie's gaze landed on her, but the other girl's expression was nothing but welcoming. "Great to meet you all! We were just about to head out for another set–you're more than welcome to join."
Kevin's eyes lit up, and even Jessica tentatively nodded. "Sounds awesome."
As they paddled out to catch the next wave, Jessica couldn't help but feel a sense of cautious optimism. Maybe this trip really would be the break they all needed.
*****
The afternoon sun beat down mercilessly, but Jessica hardly noticed the heat as she laughed and splashed in the waves with her friends. Frankie and Damon turned out to be incredibly skilled surfers, patiently coaching the trio as they each took their turns riding the swells.
"You're a natural, Jessica!" Frankie called out, her voice warm and encouraging as Jessica landed an impressive turn.
Jessica felt a flush of pride, a grin spreading across her face as she paddled back out to catch the next wave. Her body amazed her on how swiftly it moved, her muscles recalling the lessons they had practiced back home.
As the sky shifted, painting the horizon in brilliant hues of orange and pink, the group made their way back to the beach, collapsing onto the soft sand with contented sighs.
"Man, I could get used to this," Damon murmured, running a hand through his damp dreadlocks.
Kevin nodded enthusiastically. "No kidding. Think they'd let us set up a permanent residence in one of those cabanas?"
Frankie laughed, her green eyes sparkling with amusement. "I don't think the resort would appreciate that. But hey, we're always around if you guys want a surf buddy."
Jessica felt a warm flutter in her chest at the other girl's easy camaraderie. Back home, she'd always struggled to connect with her peers, her shyness often holding her back before she became a cheerleader. But here, surrounded by the carefree energy of the island, she uncoiled, her usual anxieties slowly melting away.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the beach in a soft, golden glow, the group made their way back to the hotel, trading stories and laughter. Jessica gravitated towards Frankie, drawn to the other girl's effortless confidence and infectious joy.
"So what brought you guys to the Bahamas, anyway?" Frankie asked as they strolled along the dimly lit pathway.
"Well, it was sort of a last-minute trip," Jessica explained, her gaze flicking briefly to Kevin and Salina. "My friends' parents won this big vacation package, and they invited us to tag along."
Frankie nodded, her full lips curving into a smile. "Ah, I see. Me and Damon are on a romantic date here for a week. It’s kind of like our honeymoon without marriage.”
Her boyfriend chuckled. “Yeah, and it’s fun to be with a bigger group, don’t you think?”
Jessica couldn't help but agree. Back home before she met Kevin and Salina, she'd always felt like the odd one out, the nerdy loner who just didn't quite fit in. But here, surrounded by these new, vibrant personalities, she felt a sense of belonging she hadn't experienced in a long time.
As they reached the resort's main courtyard, a burst of music and laughter spilled out from one of the beachside restaurants. Frankie's eyes lit up, and she grabbed Jessica's hand, tugging her towards the festivities.
"Come on, you guys have to see this. They do these amazing tropical-themed parties every night."
Jessica glanced back at Kevin and Salina, who were trailing behind them, equally intrigued. "What do you think?" she asked, despite already knowing the answer.
"Lead the way!" Kevin replied eagerly, his ever-present book completely forgotten.
Upon entering the restaurant, Jessica instantly immersed herself in a whirlwind of sights and sounds. Strings of twinkling lights hung from the palm fronds overhead, casting a warm, inviting glow over the entire space. A live band played a lively, rhythmic tune, their instruments blending seamlessly with the chatter and laughter of the crowd.
Frankie dragged them towards an empty table near the dance floor, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "This is the best part–the dancing!"
Before Jessica could protest, Frankie had already pulled her out onto the makeshift dance floor, her hips swaying effortlessly to the infectious beat. Jessica felt a sudden surge of panic, her palms growing sweaty as all eyes turned towards them.
"Wow! This is totally in tense," she said, her cheeks flushing.
Frankie just grinned, unfazed by Jessica's nerves. "Don't worry, just follow my lead!"
Slowly, Jessica relaxed, letting the rhythm of the music guide her movements. She could feel the tension melting away as she lost herself at the moment, her worries forgotten as she laughed and danced with her new friend.
As the set drew to a close, the band transitioning into a slower, more sensual tune, Frankie gave Jessica's arm a gentle squeeze. "Nice moves, yo.”
Jessica ducked her head, suddenly self-conscious. "I guess I got a little carried away there."
Frankie just smiled, her dark eyes warm and reassuring. "Nothing wrong with that. This is supposed to be fun, right?"
Jessica nodded, her gaze drifting over to where Kevin and Salina sat, nursing tropical-looking drinks. "Yeah, I’m a natural dancer.”
Frankie grinned. “Cool. Maybe you could teach me some awesome dance moves too. Unless you want time to kick back and enjoy yourself."
As the music swelled around them, Jessica felt a tentative smile tugging at her lips. "Yeah, I think we all need a good kick back here.”
The two girls made their way back to the table, where Damon was already passing out a round of colorful cocktails. "To new friends and epic vacations!" he announced, clinking his glass against theirs.
Jessica took a sip of the sweet, fruity concoction, relishing the way the flavors danced on her tongue. As the group dissolved into laughter and conversation, she felt the last of her worries melt away. For once, she wasn't the shy, anxious outsider–she was just Jessica, a normal teenager enjoying a carefree night with her friends.
As the party continued to rage around them, Jessica couldn't help but steal a glance out towards the dark expanse of the ocean. For a moment, she thought she saw something moving in the distance, but she shrugged it off.
With a contented sigh, Jessica turned her attention back to her friends, determined to fully embrace the magic of this island paradise.
*****
Later that night, the sun had long since set, casting the tropical paradise of the resort in a veil of darkness. The air was balmy, carrying the faint scent of salt and the distant crash of waves. Jessica, Kevin, and Salina made their way across the powdery white sand towards the beach, where a crackling bonfire cast flickering shadows across the faces of their new acquaintances, Frankie and Damon.
As they approached, Jessica couldn't help but notice the easy way Frankie leaned into Damon's side, his muscular arm wrapped casually around her waist. There was an intimacy there, a sense of comfort and familiarity that seemed to radiate from the couple. Jessica felt a pang of envy, quickly tamping down the unfamiliar emotion.
"Hey, you guys made it!" Damon called out, straightening up as he spotted them. His grin was wide and genuine, sparkling teeth catching the firelight.
"Wouldn't miss it," Kevin replied, his own smile a touch more hesitant. Jessica knew he was still a little wary of these strangers, no matter how friendly they seemed.
As they settled around the fire, Jessica accepted the offered soda can, the cool condensation slick against her fingers. Salina plopped down next to her, eyes sparkling with barely contained curiosity.
"So," Frankie began, tipping her own drink towards them. "Where are you all from?"
"Moon Valley," Kevin answered promptly. "It's a small town, down south. Lots of, uh, strange legends and stuff."
Frankie's brows rose in interest. "Strange legends, huh? Do tell."
Salina perked up, eager to share. "Mostly just creepy ghost stories and urban legends. You know, the usual stuff you'd expect from a sleepy little town." She shot a sidelong glance at Jessica. "But Jessica here is also a cheerleader. Bit of a double life, wouldn't you say?"
Jessica felt her cheeks warm slightly at the teasing note in Salina's voice. "Hey, just because I'm a cheerleader doesn't mean I'm not interested in the supernatural too." She offered Frankie a sheepish smile. "We all have our quirks, right?"
Frankie grinned, eyes dancing with amusement. "So that’s why you were good at dancing. Damon and I have a few quirks of our own." She pressed a quick kiss to Damon's cheek, eliciting a playful groan from him.
"Don't even get me started," he mock-grumbled, pulling Frankie a little closer. "This one's a total adrenaline junkie. Always has to be in the water, riding the biggest waves."
"Hey, you love it and you know it," Frankie shot back, bumping his shoulder affectionately.
Jessica couldn't help but smile at their easy banter, the warmth of the fire and the gentle crashing of waves lulling her into a sense of tranquility. For a moment, she could almost forget the lingering unease that had been haunting her since their arrival on the island.
"So how'd you two meet?" Salina asked, leaning forward eagerly. "Surf competition or something?"
Frankie nodded, a soft smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Yeah, actually. Damon and I both won the big surf contest last summer back home in Norchester Bay. I had an eye on him for a while until the contest finally brought us together. It was the surfing that gave me the courage to ask him out.”
"It was love at first spray," Damon chimed in, earning a playful swat from Frankie.
"More like love at first sarcastic quip," she corrected, eyes sparkling. "Damon may be a great surfer, but he's also a total smart-ass."
The group dissolved into laughter, the sound mingling with the crackle of the fire. Jessica felt herself relaxing, the tension in her shoulders easing as she listened to the easy banter. Maybe this little getaway wouldn't be so bad after all.
"Well, I think you two make a pretty cute couple," Salina remarked, twirling a lock of dark hair around her finger. "Opposites attract and all that, right?"
"Definitely," Frankie agreed. She snuggled a little closer to Damon, idly tracing patterns on the back of his hand. "Damon keeps me grounded, and I like to think I keep him on his toes."
"That's one way to put it," Damon chuckled, pressing a kiss to the top of Frankie's head.
Jessica smiled, taking a sip of her soda as she watched the interaction. There was something so natural, so effortless about the way Frankie and Damon were with each other. It was the easy intimacy that Jessica had always craved, but had never really experienced for herself.
"What about you guys?" Frankie asked, turning her gaze towards the trio. "Any special someone’s back home?"
Kevin flushed slightly, shaking his head. "Nah, nothing like that. We're all still in high school, so mostly just focusing on our, uh, hobbies and stuff."
Salina snorted. "Speak for yourself, nerd. I'll have you know I've got a whole harem of supernatural admirers just waiting for me to give them the time of day."
The group erupted into laughter, the sound of Jessica's own giggles surprising her. It felt good to let go, to just bask in the easy camaraderie of their newfound companions.
"What about you, Jessica?" Damon asked, dark eyes sparkling with mischief. "Any lucky guys, or maybe girls, back home?"
Jessica felt her face grow warm, but she managed a smile. "Nope, nothing like that. I'm pretty laser-focused on my cheerleading, to be honest." She glanced away, idly tracing patterns in the sand with her toe. "Haven't really had time for all that romance stuff, you know?"
Kevin gave her a glaring look, accompanied by a soft sigh, which she disregarded. She was uncertain whether pursuing a relationship posed too great a risk for someone who might wish to become part of her life.
Frankie nodded sympathetically. "I get that. When you're passionate about something, it's hard to make room for anything else. But trust me, the right person has a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect it."
Frankie nodded sympathetically. "I get that. When you're passionate about something, it can be hard to make room for anything else. But trust me, the right person has a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect it."
Jessica nodded, a wistful smile tugging at her lips. "I guess we'll have to see about that."
The conversation ebbed and flowed, shifting from lighthearted teasing to more serious discussions about their respective hometowns and interests. Jessica found herself drawn into Frankie and Damon's stories of the surf culture back in Norchester Bay, her own experiences with the supernatural mythos of Moon Valley paling in comparison.
"Wow, that all sounds way more exciting than our little ghost-hunting adventures," Kevin remarked, shaking his head in awe.
"Nah, man, don't sell yourselves short," Damon countered, flashing them a reassuring grin. "Paranormal stuff can be just as thrilling, in its own way. Who knows what kind of crazy stuff you might find lurking in those old legends of yours."
Salina's eyes gleamed with interest. “Oh, you have no idea. Just wait until you hear about the werewolf who everyone thought they saw last year.”
As Salina launched into a dramatic retelling of their previous supernatural escapade, Jessica found her gaze drifting towards Frankie. The other girl's eyes seemed to glow faintly in the firelight, a hint of scarlet flickering at the edges of her irises. Jessica blinked, wondering if the dancing flames were playing tricks on her eyes.
Frankie caught her stare, offering her a warm smile. "You okay over there, Jessica?"
Jessica nodded quickly, forcing a smile of her own. "Yeah, yeah, I'm good. Just got a little lost in thought, that's all."
Frankie's brows furrowed slightly, but before she could respond, Damon let out a loud yawn, stretching his arms over his head.
"Alright, I don't know about you guys, but I'm starting to feel the effects of this beach day," he announced, flashing them all a sheepish grin. "What do you say we call it a night and pick this up again tomorrow?"
Murmurs of agreement rippled through the group, and soon they were all climbing to their feet, brushing sand from their clothes. Jessica couldn't help but notice the way Frankie's eyes seemed to linger on her for a moment before the other girl turned away, slipping her hand into Damon's as they headed back towards the resort.
As they walked, Jessica lagged behind the others, lost in her own swirling thoughts. There was something about Frankie that tugged at the edges of her consciousness, a familiar prickle of instinct that Jessica couldn't quite place. She shook her head, trying to push the unease aside. It was probably just her overactive imagination, a byproduct of the trauma they'd faced back home.
Still, as they reached the resort and parted ways for the night, Jessica couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Frankie and Damon than met the eye. She watched them strolled into the shadows while whispering and giggling.
As darkness enveloped them, Frankie’s eyes glowed red, resembling two crimson crystals catching the light. Jessica’s jaw fell open as a chill crept up her spine.
Could it be…..
As darkness enveloped them, Frankie's parting wave echoing in Jessica's mind.
"Hey, you coming?" Salina called, breaking Jessica from her reverie.
Jessica forced a smile, quickening her pace to catch up with her friends. "Yeah, sorry. Just, uh, taking it all in, you know?"
Kevin fell into step beside her, brow furrowed in concern. "You okay, Jessica? You seem like you saw a ghost.”
Jessica nodded, giving his arm a reassuring squeeze. "I'm fine, really. Just tired, I guess. This whole trip has been a lot to take in."
Salina draped an arm around her shoulders, offering her a knowing look. "Hey, we're all in this together, right? If anything weird starts going on, we've got each other's backs."
Jessica managed a genuine smile, drawing strength from the unwavering support of her two best friends. "Thanks, you guys. I don't know what I'd do without you."
As they headed back to their rooms, Jessica couldn't help but cast one last glance over her shoulder. But the resort was quiet, the only sound the distant crash of waves against the shore.
With a soft sigh, Jessica turned away, steeling herself for whatever the next day might bring. Whatever secrets Frankie and Damon might hide, she was determined to uncover them. After all, she and her friends had faced worse before. And this time, they had each other.