The ulterior world of Alters- An e-novel

*DISCLAIMER!!!*

The following is a piece of fiction associating with Dissociative Identity Disorder.

Events shown in the E-Novel can be triggering for some people, so please be mindful and read at your own risk.

Chapter 1

'He announced his return. He said we were family.

Unlike the beauty of the word and my desire for its existence, his statement was empty.'

. . .

Out of the blotted memories of my chaotic childhood, my mother's words remain embedded in my head sharper than a blade. "Life is an extended fairytale," she said. "The happy endings are counterfeit beginnings to the abyss."

These perching words echo in my head and I make all the effort to decipher her words of wisdom. Nothing could possibly go wrong with a happy ending, right?

"Claudia De Luca, you are up next in 10," announced a high pitched voice, taming my wild thoughts and redirecting them back to reality.

Gently straightening the small wrinkles on my white shirt I decided to go to the restroom for a final practice, hoping against hope, to give the gushing adrenaline a tiny break and calm my nerves.

As I entered, a large mirror welcomed me. For someone with low self-esteem like myself, a mirror is like a slap of reality, the one I am trying my greatest to avoid. However, today was going to be an exception; since I desperately needed one final practice before my execution on stage.

Undeniably, playing with words was a forte I had developed to embrace and celebrate, but I never thought, even in my wildest dreams, that I would have to speak my words out loud.

Enrolling in a poetry competition is definitely not a cup of tea for a person cloaked with social anxiety.

"Why am I even doing this?!" I screeched frustratedly.

Unquestionably enough, people do blossom beautifully when they step out of their comfort zones, however this seemed an extreme level of discomfort.

I knew the voice very well. It was Amber Rae, a senior in my university who had been acing in all facets including, athletics, music, and academics. She was stunning and sought-after as both a love interest and a role model.

"You speak?" someone said, bursting out of one of the bathroom stalls.

"uhh,y-yeah," I managed to say in a faint voice, a little louder than a whisper.

"Oh, good to know. All the best for the event today. I expect to hear your best piece yet," Amber said enthusiastically, leaving the restroom to me.

A shudder ran down my spine as I washed my face. It had been a while since I talked to someone except when it was necessary.

Taking one last look at the reflection in the mirror I headed straight for the stage.

"That piece was beautifully worded! Next Up, we have Claudia De Luca. Ladies and gentlemen let’s welcome her with a massive round of applause."

A voice within comforted me, telling me it was going to be okay and that I had done it a million times when I apparently hadn't. I was baffled. Had I ever done this before? It was undoubtedly my first time.

I held the mic with both my hands, which let out a squeal. My eyes searched for a familiar face, but who was I going to find? My friends? I did not have any. My parents? They left me in front of the orphanage when I was 6.

I could see the lights dimming, and the next thing I knew, I was in my bed, waking to the roar of my alarm clock. I let out a sigh! It was a terrible nightmare. It had me hyperventilating till my bedsheet and I were soaked.

I quickly rubbed my face into my palms and climbed out of bed and into the bathroom for my mundane routine. As soon as I wrapped myself in my towel, something in the corner of my wardrobe caught my eye. It was a trophy for the poetry competition I had participated in my dreams.

I was awestruck. I grabbed my phone glanced at the date; it wasn’t a dream but a reality. How did I even manage to win? Sure enough, the voice in my head said I had done it a million times, but I knew I never had.

How did I manage to perform? What did I even say? Not a single streak of memory of what happened yesterday flashed across my mind. I hoped and prayed that I did nothing embarrassing.

I had to know what happened, and the only one whom I could approach was Amber.

At that point, losing a part of my memory - of enrolling myself and performing -- didn’t seem to bother me. For someone who always has been hiding in the shadows, the performance meant a lot.

Grabbing a brief look at the time, I decided to do my make up in the car and trotted into the kitchen to get my breakfast. A typical morning for me would begin on a healthy note with fruits and pancakes but,considering the current circumstances, I decided otherwise and impatiently stuffed my mouth with Nutella spread sandwiches.

I burst out of my front door and headed straight to the parking lot. I lived in a single bedroom apartment on the first floor of a five-story building.

It seemed to be a decent place, with the landlady being kind enough to rent me the apartment at a price lower than the market rates. I managed to pay the rent and my tuition bills through a school loan, a scholarship I received, the aid the university gave based on my situation, and my part-time job as a waitress in Meraki. Afterall, I had to be self-reliant for my expenses.

Meraki was the cafe nestled on the street next to the university. My shift would commence by five in the evening and go on till eight. It was a pretty hectic life, but I was getting the hang of it.

To be continued..

Chapter 2

'It was a new beginning, but the sun shined like it always did.'

. . .

The parking lot was not completely clear since it was six in the morning. I walked past the security guard who lay crouched on one side of his seat fast asleep,as I made my way towards my bike parked across the lot.

My grip tightened on my backpack as I climbed over my ride. something just didn't seem right as my bike wobbled unsteadily. To my bad luck, there was a puncture in my front-tyre.

"Oh, no!" I cursed my ill fate.

I could get it repaired, but it would take an hour or two. I would never be able to reach the university on time. Nevertheless, I eventually decided to take the metro.

The nearest metro station was half a mile farther from my house.

Those ten minutes were the longest ever. Like the movie inception, one thought led to others.

I was occupied with thoughts of the various missing pieces of my memory when a black Porsche stopped me midway.

I began to walk past it, minding my own business when a deep voice called out my name.

"Claudia? Is that you?"

I stood there, baffled. It was my first time hearing the voice. Even though I was shy, basically silent, I made sure to note the voices of people around me and used them as a medium to distinguish the new people from the ones I have seen.

This voice, however, seemed new to my ears, and I was right.

A man cloaked in a black leather jacket over a white t-shirt, black jeans and polished leather shoes came out.

He removed his shades and ruffled his hair.

The sun was already halfway up, and streaks of light flashed on his face. He had a chiseled jawline, just like that of Four from Divergent, the movie. His eyes were almond shaped with a dark brown iris similar to mine and, lips curved in a delightful smile.

While our eyes made contact, a scar over his forehead caught my attention. It was similar to what I had, with the only change being the position of it.

He practically pranced my way as I walked a few steps back with caution. Before I caught a hint of what was happening, he enveloped me in a humongous hug. His scent felt familiar and comforting, but my mind knew better.

I was hugging a stranger, for god's sake!

I did what any other human would if hugged by a stranger; I turned around and made my way back towards the apartment.

"Claudia, wait! After all these years, at the very least let me apologize!" he said in a soft voice.

His plea seemed genuine, but I had no clue what the context of his apology was. We were strangers- people who have never met before.

"Sorry, sir, I think you have had some confusion. I don't recall ever meeting you. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have classes to attend," I replied in a rushed voice, wishing he would leave me alone.

I darted towards the metro station, when in an instant, he grabbed my hand with a firm hold. My anxiety peaked as it grew scarier by every passing second, and

before I knew, my mind went blank, almost like deja vu.

To be continued...

Chapter 3

'Sometimes, ones long gone, leave silence.

A hollow peace you gradually learn to despise.'

. . .

I woke up to the throbbing pain of a migraine.

I was sitting on a bench, with my head cradled uncomfortably on its back support. Where was I?

"Hey, here's your double chocolate with Nutella waffle," a deep voice called out.

I looked up to find the same man clad in black who had stopped me on my way to university. How did we end up having waffles? Was I kidnapped?

No, I wasn't running; neither was I held captive by a rope or duct tape over my mouth.

"What am I doing here?" I asked primarily in a low tone, as my spine shuddered and my heart raced.

"What am I doing here, with you?" this time a little louder than before.

"Well, you particularly said you would love to have ice-cream with me, so here we are," he replied, baffled with the way I reacted.

"Are you sure you are alright, Jennifer?" he continued.

"Who is Jennifer? You are telling me that I accompanied you with my own consent, and yet, you fail to know my name. I am not Jennifer. My name's Claudia, and I am a university student." I replied hysterically to his claim.

He clasped at my shoulders and shook me a little. That was when I noticed that his eyes were similar to mine, perhaps to the hilt.

But unlike the stress-filled dark circles under my eyes, his eyes seemed laced with sadness and guilt.

" I am honestly bewildered that you call me Claudia one instance and Jennifer the second. I reckon that you need to get yourself together, for I am sure that we are strangers."

With that, I pushed him aside paced towards what seemed like a metro station. I was particularly enthralled by what had happened today and definitely with what happened yesterday.

"Let's do a missing memory checklist, shall we?" I began in my head.

1- I had no memory of ever enrolling myself in the competition. The competition required me to use my student ID and I am pretty sure I lost mine after the 17th of November; the day of registration for the contest. I had to make a new one.

2- I had no clue what I did after I went up on that stage and performed because it wasn’t possible for someone as new as myself to win a trophy when I didn't even know what and how I conducted myself.

3- Lastly, I had no idea what I was doing on the bench with the stranger. He called me Claudia once and Jennifer the second. Why would I agree to go with him in the first place?

I was rushing towards the metro station when my phone rang. A caller named Theo popped up. I picked up the call based on instinct and a familiar voice answered.

"Hello. Jenn-Claudia, it's me, the guy you left abandoned in front of the ice cream shop."

"Did we exchange numbers? How do I have your number saved?" I questioned.

"Well, we did it when you introduced yourself as Jennifer, but, anyway, I called you to tell you that you left your wallet on the bench," he answered.

"Fair enough. Could you please stay there; I will be there in 5 minutes," I replied with urgency in my voice.

I was already super late and neither the university nor my train was going to wait.

As I made my way towards the main street, a Porsche stopped my way.

I knew it was Theo as he let the blinds of the window down. With my wallet in his hand, he asked me to come over.

"Claudia, I know we did not hit it off on the right note, but we are family. How long can we pretend like we don't know each other? I know I made my share of mistakes, but the least you can do is let me apologize," he pleadingly said.

"I don't think I know you. I am an orphan and have no idea who my family is. If I did know you, why wouldn't I make any attempt to contact you? I think you are highly mistaken. Could I get my wallet, please? " I hurried.

"Um, I am sorry; but, I am sure you are the one I have been trying desperately to locate. The birthmark on your collar bone is similar to my sister's. Her name was Claudia De Luca, and I would often call her Clay. Please hear me out, and then we can get a DNA test to prove that you are my sister. We are family."

His sincerity was overwhelming and the thought of having a family seemed to draw me on. My instinct wished that I would give him another chance and so I did. We decided to meet at Meraki after my work hours and discuss what had happened.

I had a very long day planned.

To be continued..

Chapter 4

'She was curious because she knew something was not right,

butt was it?'

. . .

I finally reached my university precisely, a minute before my lecture was supposed to begin.

As soon as I made my way towards an empty seat in the back, I could feel the professor's eyes pierce into me. Instead of apologizing, I simply looked down. Shaking his head disapprovingly, he continued calling out the attendance and proceeded with the session.

It was the first time my presence was acknowledged only to be remembered as a defaulter. Although the lecture was quite interesting, yet the recent events in my life were superlatively condescending.

My thoughts were suddenly interrupted as a shadow rose above my head.

I looked up to find Amber, who seemed particularly awestruck with my disheveled appearance.

"Even if we didn't talk, I am sure I have never seen you have such a horrible day; you definitely need to give me details of what happened," she said with a chuckle.

It was weird to have someone notice something queer about me; I just wasn’t used to such attention.

"But, before that, we need to talk about why you introduced yourself as Sylvia Plath yesterday. Oh--congratulations! You deserve the prize. Albeit the poem was a little weird, it was beautifully worded."

Sylvia Plath? Well, she undoubtedly is one of my favorites. I grew up reading her poems but, why would I introduce myself like that?

"You sure? It is a little weird that I introduced myself like that," I retorted.

"I could not take the complete video; however, I do have the intro. Here!"

Screech!

'Umm- Good Evening, ladies and gentlemen. Please pardon me for a bit.'

I said that and walked off briefly, coming back on stage.

'I am deeply honored to be welcomed at today's poetry competition. I, Sylvia Plath, would like to recite a poem I wrote long ago and is undoubtedly underrated. Moon under the bridge, as I call it.'

The video ended with that.

"Don't tell me I still won the competition. It is outlandish that I would introduce myself like that. The accent does not seem like mine too. It sounds so similar to Sylvia's recording of her poems published back in the '70s with a British accent." I was spooked with the happenings of the last few days and, this proved I had to talk to someone.

"Are you alright? You seem like you could really use a good talk. I know we might not be so close, but trust me, you can share your secrets with me. I will lock them up safely away from others," Amber said assuringly.

Hence, I confided in her and narrated the horrific chain of events that happened over the week.

She did not seem surprised and grabbed me out of the lecture hall, dragging me out of the college premises.

"Amber, let me go! You are hurting me!" I shrieked.

People stared our way, but no one stopped by to help.

"Listen to me, Claudia. It's the ghost. Sylvia's soul has taken over your body. I know where you live and it turns out her apartment was in the building next to yours. I need to take you to an exorcist. Father Benedict, He will help you, I promise." Her concern was definite, but the fact that I have a demon inside me seemed skeptical.

I accompanied her, regardless of my instinct. I desperately needed answers.

Upon narrating my recent life story again to the priest, his instant reply was, "Oh dear! You are definitely in need of help, Jesus will help you, but you can not fight the demons alone. They feed on your memory and ability." He said so with confidence.

I knew he could help me, or at least, I thought he could.

To be continued...

Chapter 5

'When life gave me bitter melons,

they replaced mine with their sweet ones.'

. . .

He told me that I had to go through a specific chronology of spiritual rituals to connect with my soul and shoo the demon away. The moment of doubt, however, is whether I should trust him.

The thing about being an orphan is, you may not have to go forward with a specific religion. It's a matter of choice and freedom. This new exposure to being potentially possessed by a demon inclines me towards Christianity, for it seemingly has a solution to my identity crisis.

Within two days, I found out I had introduced myself as three different people, with totally contrasting accents, talents, experiences, and, without doubt, varied personalities.

I needed to find what was wrong.

Despite my atheist side, I believed Amber entering my life was a planned fate. Maybe her claim, along with the church's father's, was right. What harm could come my way with this ritual?

I agreed to it and the priest went on to explain that we would need resources out of which one included the herb rosemary and holy water.

Despite being vulnerable, I never surrendered immediately to what they asked of me. Instead, I took it upon myself to find the most suitable way to find a solution, the internet.

Classes lasted till three before I could finally go to the community library and do my part of the research.

Since it was just after college, all the computers seemed preoccupied, with just one remaining vacant at the corner.

However, someone else had their eyes on it too. Before I could settle myself, someone grabbed the chair, almost catching me by surprise.

"Um-Excuse me, do you mind letting me use the computer first? I am afraid I have a matter that needs urgent attention," a girl asked with a swift yet, warm tone.

I instantaneously moved aside. I would avoid any hustle just so that, a humiliating episode of social anxiety won't be left loose.

I noticed how her streaks of neon highlights popped out of her thick black hair. They were quite amusing.

I made my way towards the librarian and asked her if she could guide me to books associated with demonic possession.

She was a little concerned and alert at first, but it soon faded as she keenly noticed my body language. Her tensed muscles relaxed as she walked me to the section of the library labeled; 'Paranormal.'

"Here it is. However, dear, some things in here might not be real; they utterly play with your head. You are going to have to decide which parts to filter out and which to retain, " the librarian informed me in a subtle tone.

"Yes," I replied in a shallow voice.

At first, I was alarmed by her fraught tone, but, as I began going through the books in the section, I realized how nerve-racking the details were.

Initially, I found no symptoms of demonic possession in myself and was pleased. Regardless, I did have some signs of spiritual possession.

The books elaborated on the symptoms of spiritual possession being; the loss of memories, unaccountable events, so on and so forth.

Amnesia; I have had bits of my memory gone with no valid explanation and, the chronology of bizarre events suggested some things were definitely common.

I was distraught by what I had learned. The priest was right and, so was Amber. Yet, the answer did not satisfy me. I knew something somewhere was still wrong; nevertheless, this whole uneasy feeling had some truth behind it.

"So you believe in dark magic and the existence of ghosts? It is a rare sight."

I turned around to find the girl I had met at the computer stall. I curled the corner of my lips to suggest a smile and dug back into my book.

"I love paranormal activities too, and I do believe in them. However, some activities do happen without any supernatural influence. It is just the way a system works," the girl continued warmly.

Struck by her knowledge in the field, I decided to talk to her. After all, the right treatments for my illnesses are necessary, and; she seemed to have well-rounded wisdom.

"If you do have time, would you mind having a little chat with me?"I asked as low as possible.

"Sure. Oh-and thank you for letting me use the computer first. We can sit on the empty benches outside the library; it is warm outside." With that, she grabbed my hand.

We sat on one of the empty sunlit benches.

"So, how may I help you?" she asked with a joyful giggle.

"Oh, I am sorry! I forgot to introduce myself. I am Dolce Dillon and I am an alum of the Czech University of psychology and mental health. What about you?"She was, without a doubt, interested to know my side of the story.

" I am Claudia De Luca and I am a second-year student at the university down the block," I replied to her enthralling energy with a less amusing tone.

"What did you want to talk about?"

"Listening to your comment about supernatural activities, I wanted to know if you could help me out with some things I was facing."

"Sure. I am all ears to know about the unusual things you are experiencing."

I explained as briefly as possible about the ' series of unfortunate events' that had clouded my fate.

As I went deeper into the symptoms, I could see her bubbly expressions fading as concern overlapped her face.

"Claudia, have you lost a massive chunk of your childhood memories that you wish to but fail to recall?" she asked me in a very quiet yet serious tone.

Her change in expressions and nature seemed very alarming. I unambiguously nodded and witnessed as her face turned pale.

To be continued...

Chapter 6

'Sometimes in the dark,

the universe showers the light.'

. . .

Just when we were about to talk more, she received a call, which broke the rising tension between both of us. Her expressions made my insides turn because I knew there was more to it.

"Hey, I am sorry, but I will have to leave. Something urgent has come up. However, let us stay in touch. Your condition and situation are not associated with demonic possession of any sort; hence, I reckon, you remove that idea from your mind. What you need is psychological help."

For a stranger, her confirmation was not reassuring but, since I had spilled out too much information too soon, unlike my usual self, I was feeling a little regretful of my actions.

Since I was all alone, my mind was off to its own to wander in its wonderland; only my wonderland is not filled with beautiful mystic creatures.

One thought linked to another to create a maze as I analyzed everything that had happened so far in the span of a week, particularly the events that had happened today. I had been off guard and had significantly let my barrier of social anxiety down and, it felt good. I felt relieved as if something had gotten out of my clogged chest. The load cleared was little, but the reassurance was comforting.

''Talking. I believe I should do it a little more often," I thought to myself as one side of my lip gently curled to a smirk.

I was ecstatic, and for the first time in years, I felt that my life was not as bad and rocky as it seemed.

For some reason, I was really looking forward to meeting Theo again after work. This whole idea of finally talking to people was exhilarating and surely overwhelming.

Unlike my mundane experience, my work hours seemed to have taken an eternity to finish. I got off my shift a few minutes early. Butterflies were creating a garden of their own in my stomach, soaring through their freedom and quenching their long wished thirst for something called family and love.

I nestled on the table in the corner near the windowpane so I would know when he would arrive. I leaned on the window's glass, frequently glancing at the driveway.

I waited for five minutes, which turned to ten and, yet, he failed to show up.

I was feeling itchy, and my heart was submerging in the depth of sorrow. I still had hope. After all, didn't he say we were family?

My eyes began to close as I drifted to sleep.

I was awoken by the manager asking me to leave as the closing time neared. My dopamine boost was now negligible.

I made my way back home.

On my way, the wind seemed to have started softening its howl. Unlike the movies, nature did not accompany my mood. The moon was aesthetically pleasing in the clear grey sky and, the stars surprisingly noted their presence.

I witnessed a brother caressing his baby sister in his arms as the parents watched their display of affection from afar, however close enough to make their children feel secure.

The whole paradoxical situation made me slip a tear down my cheekbones.

I plugged in my earphones as a distraction from the happy go lucky families that surrounded me and gave my isolation a slap of reality.

The first song that tuned in was 'all by myself' by Celine Dion. I let out a muffled laugh as tears began to pour down like a broken tap waiting to be fixed.

I trust one guy in the name of family and, he decides to leave me waiting; at the end of the day, that is apparently, what I have been doing for the last nineteen years of my life. I have been gladly waiting for a miracle to dramatically alter my life and fill it with, at the very least, a hint of love and compassion that I have trained my poor self to outgrow off.

That loose fence had no spikes and, it was torn to the ground with false promises.

Upon reaching home, I took a hot shower at settled my uneasiness with a tub of ice cream I had stored a few days ago. Ice cream undoubtedly shouted, random shots of Dopamine. Yet, its effects took quite a time to kick in.

I crawled into bed, wondering what could have possibly been so important to ignore and stand up to a relative after such a long time of separation. He apparently lost a lot of respect that I had for him after his heartfelt apology in the morning.

I began my read of the great gatsby that I had been waiting for a long time to read. I had heard a lot about the plot but never really had the chance to explore it myself.

I had just begun the most soulful fictional experience when my phone buzzed. It was Theo.

To be continued...

Chapter 7

'Alone, stuck in the dark,

who will help her out?.'

. . .

"Hello, Claudia! I am so sorry something urgent came up, and I had to deal with it as soon as possible. I thought I would be able to cover it up within a few hours, but it took longer than what I had previously planned. I am so sorry for standing you up," he hurriedly explained.

"Okay."

I had too much pressure for one night and, I couldn't tolerate anything overwhelming anymore. My emotional baggage was quite full.

"Claudia, I am so sorry. I, from the bottom of my heart, did not mean to leave you waiting after so many years of living apart. I want to know more about you. Can I pick you up early tomorrow so we can go for breakfast before your classes at the university?"

His voice was hopeful, but mine stuck in my head. I wanted to tell him that I understand and that he could pick me up the following morning; however, no words came out. I simply hung up.

That night, I had an extremely bizarre dream. I found myself trapped in a mansion. The one that I had wished to live in. I had seen the image of this house in the newspaper. The article associated with the picture mentioned how that the mansion belonged to a renowned lawyer.

As I was looking around, I saw a girl getting ready in one of the rooms. The room was pretty. It had an aesthetic outlook to it much like Regina's from the mean girls.

"Hello, can you tell me what I am doing here? I can not really figure out how to go out of this mansion," I said politely.

"Well, that's the thing. You can not. I am going out now and since I am the owner of the house here, you better not make any moves. If you behave, I might let you lift the curtains."

Her voice was deep yet sharp. She was a little rude and hostile towards me. I could feel her disliking my presence in the mansion.

She was on her way out of the door when I asked her what her name was as I introduced myself as Claudia, a university student.

She smirked and replied, "I am Jennifer. A 25-year-old and have a great fashion sense."

Her eyebrows crossed as she scanned me from head to toe.

"You could really use some fashion tips from me. What are you wearing? A balloon for a top? I am sure you are still stuck in the '60s," she mocked me.

"Sigh! Right, sure. I would love to know more."

With that, she left.

I roamed around in the house and came across the living room.

It was huge yet, empty. There was a sofa in the center and a huge screen in the middle. As I made my way to sit on the sofa, I stubbed my toe on the coffee table in front of it.

The table had a remote placed on it along with a bookcase. I picked it up and clicked on the start button. Nothing happened.

I clicked it again, hoping the television screen would start. Instead, the curtains raised up and, a blinding light entered the room.

Fighting the light, my eyes made way to see the source of it. The long glass windows were a screen and, I could see outside a similar view. It was the ceiling of my room. I could feel the screen move around the room and, a pair of hands similar to mine pick up objects around me, observing them keenly.

The screen then slowly showed the bathroom and went in front of the mirror above the sink.

I saw something horrifying, a reflection of myself in the mirror from a screen outside the windows of the mansion.

I screamed, and so did my reflection.

To be continued...

Chapter 8

'She was ignorant of how all these events

were not just coincidences, there is always more to it than that.'

. . .

The screen became pitch black. I tried to open the windows, but they would not budge.

I screamed and shouted with the hope that someone would pay heed to my cries. I was wrong.

Instead, another lady in her thirties, dressed in a beautiful cotton dress, more like what I had seen in the literature textbook, came down the stairs. Most likely, back in high school.

She had her hair slicked in neat curls. Her lips had a tint of blush pink. Her eyelashes curled up elegantly yet, sadness and regret could not hide behind the facade of beauty.

Her smile was remorseful, the kind where your eyes are dull, and your lips stretch to try and attempt to convince yourself that you are alright.

"Hello, dear," she said, acknowledging my presence.

"Could you please remain a little quiet? I am trying to mold my emotions into words. Your shouts not only distract me, but they also make me feel very conscious of my confessions."

"Hello, mam. I am trapped here. I have no idea how I came here. I saw my reflection on the screen outside, and then it went blank. Could you please help me out?" I pleaded as my voice cracked.

"I felt similarly on the first day of my stay. Trust me, dear, you will get used to it. Now, if you will excuse me, I have a little self-expression to do on my miseries."

With that, she went upstairs and disappeared.

The front door swung open. Jennifer was on the porch, with an unusual yet, a mischievous smirk on her face.

I could not see more details as I took my chances and made the run.

I was almost out when she grabbed my hand.

"Where do you think you are going?" she snarled.

The grip tightened as I struggled to loosen it. Her voice slowly tuned out as I began seeing my reflection on a windowpane.

Unlike the one on the screen, it felt real. I gasped and gripped my face.

"I am back! I am free!" I shouted with exhilaration bursting through my lungs.

As my excitement withered, I sensed a dozen pairs of eyes staring at me. Astonishingly, I was on a metro train.

Apologizing, I looked down. I was in a black skin fitting dress. It was short, accompanied by black boots. I had always wanted to have one of those dresses, but I knew with my income and my self-reliance, I would be foolish to invest in such luxury. Even my bag had changed to a purse.

I looked into the purse to get my phone and know how long it had been.

The purse still had its tag attached on the inside. It cost more than two months worth of salary.

I got my phone, which was thankfully just the way I left it. The wallpaper was me in the black dress, pouting. A series of messages were unread in my message box. I found out that I had used up all the credits from my credit card.

I internally cried. How do I survive? Since every penny is quintessential when you are poor, I would only use a credit card.

"Passengers are to be ready; the next stop, Manychester street, is awaited for arrival in five minutes."

The announcement added fuel to the fire. I was supposed to head out on the previous stop. Today was an epitome of an unfortunate day; the worst part is that I could do nothing to make it better.

I had to do something about it, as soon as possible.

The first task on my list is to get back the money that my body spent. Even if it is not the whole sum, at least I will get a part of it. I had saved up two years' worth of salary and, my dumb alter-self used it all up.

I got out at the stop and made my way back to my house on foot, clearing a bunch of errands on my way.

I returned the purse and got the full money back because the tag was still on, but I could not manage to get the complete return on my shoes and dress. I had to sell them at a thrift store and got seventy-five percent back.

By the time I reached home, I was exhausted and tired.

To be continued...

Chapter 9

'The wait was long, ambiguity was kicking in

but the question still remained; was it worth it?'

. . .

However, I had to make some unquestionable changes so that the next time something of the sort happens, I am well secured and prepared.

I kept a diary with my details and mundane yet, essential information in my bag, and one on my bed-side. I was making an attempt to contact the other person that took over me for a short period of time and inform them about how certain things should be used and placed.

For the first time in my life, I did something I never thought I would have to. I hid my previously-full-now-half-empty box of cereal in the safe, accompanied by my credit card. I had pulled out enough money from the bank as cash to pay the bills and fill my stomach for another month if I ate less than a dollar per meal.

While I had already put my safety net up and secured my prized possessions, a stop on this was necessary.

I was determined to find a solution. Thus, the next step was back into the library, however this time, it was going to be the psychology section.

It was then that I received a call from the police station. They said that they had Theo under their custody and that she was to report to the station for further information.

Even for a stranger, I was not cold-hearted. After all, he said we were 'supposedly' a family. I might not have had one growing up, but I know that family always has each other's back.

I got dressed and went to the police station.

They told me that they found him with drugs and possessed them. Nevertheless, they took him into their custody. They also said that he had referred to me as the closest relative in town and hence, called me.

The fact that I had just found out that my long lost brother was a criminal offender was hard to swallow.

I am sure people have their reasons but taking drugs is the worst thing one can do to themselves. Imagine how many relationships you would spoil because of it, especially the one you have with yourself.

Despite his deed, being the humble person I am, I still went down to the station to understand the situation in detail before making judgments of any sort.

In the police station, the officers asked me to fill in some paperwork before I met Theo.

Explaining the situation to me, officer Shire said, "Thank you for filing the paper. Please follow me as I take you to your brother. Your brother has been positive for having drugs in his system. Post search, we found some of it in his car too. Here it is, miss. If you need anything, I will be on the other side of the cell."

Theo looked miserable.

His dress was disheveled and, his hair messed up. I shook my head and let out a sigh. "What were you thinking? Are you out of your mind? If this is your way of welcoming your sister in your life, then I don't want it."

My voice raised with each word. I was frustrated and in agony for what my brother had done with himself. I abhor the absolute idea of drugs but, how could I possibly loathe my own brother.

"It is her. She is here, in his cell. We should definitely get the test done. They could be accomplices. Right."

Something itched my gut, and I knew something was wrong when I heard the officer say something in reference to me.

He came up to me and said, "Miss, we found out that Theo was with you around the period he had consumed drugs. Footage of you and Theo laughing uncontrollably in a restaurant has been obtained. Can you please come out so we can get your test done?"

"Sure, there is nothing to hide. however, I don't think me and Theo had lunch together or were in a restaurant today. Can I see the footage myself?" I insisted, baffled by what he had just said.

They took me to a room and played a video on the screen and there I was in the corner of the restaurant with Theo in the beautiful short black dress.

To be Continued...

Chapter 10

'She was not guilty for the crime.

she was guilty for trusting the wrong person.'

. . .

I waited on the bench outside the testing clinic, waiting for my results to show up. I was very anxious, mainly because I had no idea what had happened.

My arms were sweaty, and I was hyperventilating. My head was spinning with the whole idea of being a drug offender.

I was tapping my knees repeatedly in order to calm my bouncing nerves that seemed to be on the verge of blowing up.

An officer who was assigned to watch me snapped. "Well, miss, could you please calm down. If you have not consumed the drug, why are you so nervous?"

"I don't know. I mean, I know I did not have it, but what if it comes out positive?"I managed to answer.

"He-He-He. That is not how tests work. You have it and, you get it in your system; you don't, and there is nothing to worry about."

With that said, I waited patiently. I am disgusted by drugs; there is no way possible that I could have managed to get it inside me without puking.

My abomination for drugs goes back a long time. I am unaware of what event caused me to hate it so much. But, I surely know that ever since my childhood, drugs, drug addicts, and even the idea of drugs make me sick to my stomach.

"I would never do that to myself," I told myself in affirmation.

But, somewhere deep down, I was not sure. My doubt was indeed valid.

The police officer returned with the results. He had a smirk on his face as he snorted and said, "no wonder you were nervous. Dang! You are getting your blood report done and, you still have the guts to lie that you did not have drugs. These teenagers nowadays."

"Officer, I swear I did not consume drugs. I have no idea how I have them in my system, but I am a hundred percent sure I would never."

"Listen, lady. These reports are no joke; they are crisp and valid as ever and have always been. The approximate time of consumption is similar to your brother's. You had drugs at around one, exactly when you both were together at Macie's, the restaurant. We have the camera file."

"No! That is not me, sir. It is Jenifer. In fact, I was trapped in a mansion where the only thing I saw was my reflection. I swear I have no clue why the report turned positive," I hastily replied to his comment.

I tried to convince him and explain to him my situation as clearly as I could. Instead of empathizing and attempting to understand what I was trying to say, he took it all in a laugh. How was I even at fault? What if Theo spiked my drink or food? There is a possibility. How much do I really know about him anyway.

"Sir, what if Theo spiked my drink? Can you replay the camera from the restaurant and check whether he did so. I assure you I would never do it out of my free will."

He looked into me, scanning the tone of genuineness in my voice.

"We will. It will be taken as a part of our investigation. However, it does not quite fit in and seems ridiculous. If he ever intended to or did, in fact, try to drug you, he would never call you in an emergency of this sort. You are his sister after all."

With that, he took me to an empty cell where he informed me I would be staying for the next 24 hours as the investigation continues, after which lawyers and prosecutors will be given to us as our civil rights.

To be continued...

Chapter 11

'Alone, stuck in the dark,

who will help her out?.'

. . .

The wait seemed to be eternal. I had, without any doubt so ever, walked a thousand circles in the small cell. Ambiguity was overflowing when the officer returned with a female officer for escort.

They directed me to a room and had me settled in it. The room was dark with a single bulb of light hanging from the top on a series of equipment.

One side of the glass seemed like one of those oneway windows you see on cooperate buildings. I could not see what was on the other side, but the feeling was not the blissful kind.

The machine in the front beeped as a streak of red light showed across the room.

An officer entered the room with another man. They were seated in the seats next to mine.

The man was working with the wires as the officer gave me a disgusted look.

"These university students have no sense of responsibility. Drugs at a thriving age like theirs is an utter waste of money and life. Young lady, you are putting your future at risk here," he mentioned looking at me with disappointment painted all over his face.

"Sir, I undoubtedly stand by your take on the issue. Even the thought of consuming them has not crossed my mind, let alone taking it in reality," I replied, attempting to make him understand that I was not guilty.

"Well, you can say that over and over again until this machine proves you to be wrong. This machine is the old and mighty lie detector. You can lie to all of us, but you can not lie to this fellow right here. "

I gently nodded.

What had I gotten myself into? From being an independent and responsible girl, I am nearly going in for possession of something as ridiculous as drugs.

The man accompanying the officer attached a few wires to my head and another to my arm. Within a matter of minutes, the interrogation began.

"Young lady here, is your name Claudia De' Luca?" The officer began.

"Yes, sir! I am Claudia De' Luca."

A green light pranced across the top, followed by a beep.

The officer continued after a second of what seemed like momentary satisfaction.

"Are you the sister of Theo De' Luca?"

"Yes! However, It was made aware to me quite recently."

The green light blared again.

"Did you take the drugs with your own will?"

Taking a brief pause, I took a deep breath and replied, "No, sir!"

Before a beep was heard, my head spun as I clutched it.

The pain was very similar to period cramps. It happened regularly, but the pain felt new every time it rehearsed itself.

The striking pain was followed by a dive back into the mansion.

I sighed heavily. What was I to expect now?

"Hello? Hello? Hello!" I asked, my voice rising with every repetition.

Squirming, I made my way to the kitchen this time. The kitchen had bagels and cream cheese. Just the comfort food I needed with the drama that surrounded me.

This situation was way better than having to answer questions post being attached to wires all over.

I wanted to stay here forever, or until the whole situation was over, but I knew I had to clarify it.

Maybe sometime later, I thought and took my bagel with me in the living room.

The room was the same as the last time without the screen playing.

I devoured and savored on my bagels for an hour or two after which, the front door opened.

To be continued...

Chapter 12

'The end is always a beginning

to a new story'

. . .

I did not want to go out. Not back to the cell at the very least. I had to make a quick decision.

Despite my heart shouting to enjoy the luxuries of the mansion, my mind spoke otherwise. I had to get my record straight. I was not at fault anyhow, but how was I to prove my innocence?

After all, the officer did say there was not enough proof that I was not conscious while all these incidents took place.

I was unsure whether it was for the better or worse that I followed my gut out the door.

Within the fog outside, there was another shadow. The silhouette was masculine. The image was unclear, but I knew in my gut that something was definitely wrong.

He seemed to have a hat and a pair of boots, similar to a cowboy. Before I could make out much ff the features, I woke up with a nauseous feeling in my stomach.

Before I knew it, I puked all over. The taste in my mouth was unfamiliar and sickening. My face and body were red all over while I began to choke.

"Help! Somebody help!" someone said from beside me.

The ambulance was right outside the police station, fortunately. The paramedics examined the symptoms and exchanged a series of phrases, which to me were simply gibberish.

Inserting an IV in my arm, one of the paramedics asked if I had been in contact with any substance that might result in an allergic reaction.

"I don't know," I managed to mention from between the gasps of air.

"Okay, Claudia. I would like you to tell me any substance you know that can cause an allergy reaction in your body. We might get some clues. The steroids should work to slow down the symptoms in the meanwhile."

"Uhh-Soy beans and uhh-peas."

Ahh! I groaned in pain as the officer who accompanied me seemed to be overwhelmed.

'That-That's not possible. We asked her if she had any allergies, and she denied them. Rather, she asked for the soy milk twice. It makes no sense." The office argued, condescending what I had just stated.

After arranging a bed in emergency care, I was moved to an ICU for overnight observation.

"Before you leave, Miss De Luca, Dr. Dillon would like to have a word with you."

I gently nodded, giving my consent.

"Good morning, miss De Luca! I am-- Claudia?" the doctor said entering the room, occupied with the tab that had the details of what had happened.

"Dolce!" I was awestruck.

It felt like a little surreal that among all the mess, at the very least one face was familiar.

As reluctantly as it was, a tear slipped my eye while a smile parted between her lips. Her astonishment showered through her face. She was baffled.

To be continued...