One

It all started a year ago.

When Kingston Boys' Academy packages addressed to my father arrived. At first I thought nothing of it; “just a package".

But it wasn't 'just' a package; it was a whole new beginning; and not a good new beginning either. My father, who I have been told to address as Robert now, was offered a teaching position at Kingston boys' academy which he would "be crazy to ignore". But that means moving all the way across the country to an inconceivably small town calledGalesend and start a new school that’s a 20 minute drive from Galesend.

"Addison?" Da-Robert called over the intercom, something I used only when forced.

I closed the email I was reading and made my way down stairs.

"Yup?" I answered when I saw Da-I mean Robert in his study perched over his laptop; surprise, surprise.

"'Yes' Addison, 'yes', not 'yup'" Robert sighed, not even looking up from the screen.

"Yes Robert" I answered, my voice drenched in sarcasm.

“Careful with that tone young lady.” Robert said sternly, finally looking up over his glasses perched on his nose. "Just reminding you about the bus tomorrow, it’ll be here at 8 sharp, so be out there about 5 minutes early; just in case.”

“What bus?” I asked.

“The school bus Addison, I have to be at Kingston’s at 6 so I couldn’t drop you off, Oh and don't forget that tomorrow is Wednesday."

"Oh,” I said, trying not to sound too disappointed, “What’s so special about Wednesday?”

Robert's eyes flickered up to mine again.

"The formal dinner at Kingston's with the whole body, so be ready at 5.30 I'll pick you up. The dress code is quite formal." Robert explained a matter-of-factly.

"What? You mean I have to go to an all boys' school just to eat dinner? You’re kidding me right?" I asked, not bothering to hide the spite I my voice.

"Addison I am really busy, and no I am not kidding." Robert said in his monotone again. "Is that all?"

My eyes skimmed over his desk, glasses and computer, which his eyes were focused on; his focal point of attention these days.

"Yes" I answered sharply, leaving without another glance in his direction and ignoring the pit in my stomach; knowing that tomorrow I’m going to dine with all the staff and teachers at Kingston Boys' Academy, along with 650 adolescent boys'. Great.

I stomped outside letting the cold air engulf me. I tightened my arms around me and headed down the path down to the river. It was dark, but I was beyond caring about my surroundings. I heard the low rush of water before I saw it. I rounded a corner and although I could not see the river clearly there was enough light to sharpen the features of where it surged. I inhaled the crisp smell and took another step, intending to dip my feet in.

I heard a small crumbling sound before the entire bank I was standing on caved in and I was hurled into the river that swallowedme whole. The tide pulled tug war with me as I frantically clawed at the water. I didn’t know if I was close to the surface, but the cruel darkness enveloped me.

I was going to die.

I closed my eyes and surrendering.