Chapter One

The cool fall air hit Jamie West across the face causing her to snap back to reality.

“This is it.” She mumbled to herself.

She took a deep breath and stepped inside the building.

All at once it hit her.

She was starting her first day at County High in Everwood, Colorado. Jamie looked down at the piece of paper she was holing in her hands.

“Main office 135.” She read.

Jamie glanced around as she made her way to the office.

County High didn’t seem very different from her old school. Typical crowded hallways, puke green colored walls, cliques of students excitedly talking to one another.

“You must be Jamie.” A voice said.

Startled Jamie turned around and found herself face to face with a blond haired girl.

“Yes.” She said warily.

The girl laughed. “Sorry, didn’t mean to freak you out. I’m Amy Abbott. I’m supposed to show you around.”

Jamie nodded, still slightly confused.

“You’re probably wondering how I knew who you were.” Amy said.

“Actually yes.” Jamie told her.

“It’s a pretty small town and I’ve lived here all my life. You kind of stick out.” Amy said.

Not sure if she should be insulted by that comment Jamie just nodded.

“What’s you first class?” Amy asked.

“Umm…” Jamie said looking at her schedule. “History with Ms. Evans.”

“Oh good. I’m in that class too.” She said. “Follow me.”

Not really wanting to follow her but not having any other choice Jamie started walking.

“So where are you from?” Amy asked.

“Denver.” Jamie replied.

“Oh cool.” She said.

Jamie could tell Amy wasn’t listening so she decided against volunteering anymore information.

“Here we are.” Amy said brightly as they walked into the classroom. “You can sit next to me.”

“Great.” Jamie said rolling her eyes.

She sat down at the tiny desk and scanned the room. Some kids were scrambling to finish homework, while others were talking about their weekend plans. Out of the corner of her eye Jamie saw a boy sitting in the back of the classroom quietly reading a comic book.

He didn’t seem like the rest of the kids at this school.

He was…

“Jamie!” Amy said interrupting Jamie’s train of thought.

“Sorry, come again?” she asked.

“This is my friend Kayla.” Amy said indicating the dark haired girl sitting next to her.

“Hi!” Kayla said.

“Nice to meet you.” Jamie replied.

“When did you get into town?” Kayla asked.

“Yesterday.” Jamie said.

Before Kayla could comment the teacher walked into the classroom.

Jamie snuck a quick glance at the mystery boy again and she found him looking back at her. She gave him a small smile and he quickly turned his head.

Maybe Everwood wouldn’t be so bad after all.

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