Sting of Betrayal

Chapter 1 Saturday at three oclock his dad was supposed to pick him and his sister up so they could spend some time together. It was, now, four o clock and Layton lay on his belly in the grass as he rolled marbles over the ants that scurried about in his mothers flowerbed. The ants were franticly running about with little specks of white on their backs. He was vaguely amused and quickly tired of the ants. Layton rolled onto his back, looked up at the blue sky and sighed aloud. What a boring day he thought to himself. Finally, sick of lying alone in the grass, Layton left his empty backyard. His dad was supposed to take them out for pizza and miniature golf but, as usual, he canceled. He was actually looking forward to spending time with his dad, plus he was tired of spending every day bored and alone. Now his sister was off with her friends, his mom was at work, and he was home alone again. School had been out nearly two weeks, and all hed done is sit and sigh. No fun days at the water park, backyard barbeques or crafts

at camp, like they used to do. Now that his parents had split, finances were tighter, or so his mother explained to him. Despite the promise to his mom that he wouldnt leave the house that day in case his father showed -, he left the backyard and headed down to Priddy street where his best friend, Rick, lived. As Layton walked to Ricks, he wrestled with feelings of anger, pride, and loneliness. On one hand, he never wanted to talk to Rick again, but on the other hand it sucked not having any friends. He felt like a real desperate dummy, going to Ricks house, but he was such a dork at school and Rick was the only one that ever liked him. Maybe he didnt want to be seen with him at school, but maybe Rick would hang out with him now that school was over. Layton tried to forget that last weeks incident, at school, when Ricks new friends threw handfuls of mashed potatoes at him as he walked past their table in the cafeteria, and Rick laughed the loudest. Ah hahahaaaaa was all Layton could see and hear. It was humiliating to be picked on but it was worse to feel his only friend in the world turn on him.

School sucked big time but things would be better if his parents would let him throw away his stupid glasses and put some gel in his frizzy blond hair. Maybe he wasnt as cute as Jeff Barley, the one who seemed to like making fun of him the most, but he had a girlfriend once. Cindy was a cute little brunette who always wore pretty barrettes in her hair and had the shiniest lips. All the boys at school wanted her, and she was his until Jeff shorted him, humiliating them in front of the entire school. Cindy was too embarrassed to be seen with Layton and she never talked to him ever again. Hey, Funk! Show us your under pants! he recalled. Ugh! He hated that memory and tried not to think about it, but it was too late. The look on everyones faces when Jeff pulled his shorts down and everyone saw the superman underwear, was unforgettable. It was bad enough to have kids pick on him because of his name, Funk, which he already hated and was a daily source of agony for him, but everyone knowing the kind of underwear he wore was beyond humiliation. Fortunately, that joke had died down and Jeff, eventually, moved on to bigger,

better insults as well as methods of torture, like ripping up his homework so he couldnt turn it in or stabbing him in the buttocks with a pen. Layton wasnt a total wuss, though, and he did try to stand up for himself once. Unfortunately, it didnt work out too well. He was standing next to Rick, waiting in line for lunch when Jeff decided itd be funny to pour the contents of his plastic Kool Aid into his curly frizzy hair. Layton pushed him hard onto the ground, but his buddies (and fraternal twins), John and Brad Miller caught him and pushed him up onto his feet. As soon as Jeff was standing again, he sent a nasty right hook at Laytons face. The teachers took them both to the principals office and sent them home for the day, but his hair retained a reddish glow because he didnt rinse out the Kool Aid immediately and, the next day, everyone had something new to laugh at him about. But that was when his daily school torture really picked up that was the day Rick turned on him. The next day, Rick did everything to avoid Layton. Normally, in the mornings, they walked together; Layton would catch up to him right as he was leaving his house. This time, Rick opened the door and ran ahead.

Hey Rick! Layton called, but he kept running. Layton ran after him, but he only ran faster to get away; the next day, it was the same thing all over again. It didnt take long for Layton to get the message. He hung back and watched Ricks back, and they walked back and forth to school like that for weeks until Ricks new buddies John and Brad began giving him rides. He walked with his head down to avoid the hot glare of the 100 degree sun. Layton continued past a half dozen houses, looked up momentarily and froze in his tracks. Rick lived in a yellow house at the end of the block, and he already had company. There was Rick, Jeff, and the two twin brothers, John and Brad, all splashing and laughing as they took turns belly sliding on a water mat on Ricks front lawn; his dad stood over a charcoal grill and the fumes of smoke and meat could be smelled even where Layton stood. More hurt than angry, Layton turned around and walked fast hoping they wouldnt see him. The sadness and humiliation was overwhelming. His scalp felt like it would melt away under the heat and pressure of his emotion. His eyes burned and he could feel the sting of tears tempting his eyes.

Yet, at the same instant he felt sadness, pure rage made him want to hurt Rick. Layton wanted to make Rick feel pain the way he did at that moment. He would have liked to have punched Rick in the face a million times. With his head hung down, he stared at his feet and walked back to his plain white house. Inside, he threw himself on the bed in his room and stared at his Harry Potter posters on the walls and ceilings for an hour until he fell asleep. Layton! Dinner is ready! his sister called from the living room. Feeling even worse than when he laid down for his nap, he entered the living room where a large pizza sat on the coffee table. We rented the Boy Who Cried Wolf, said his mother who went over and ruffed up his curly fro. Looking down into the darkness of his eyes, she asked Is anything wrong? How was your last week of the fourth grade? School sucks and weve been out nearly two weeks. What makes you ask now? She doesnt care about you, geekdweeby, said his sister Heather.

Shut up, hoe. Watch your mouth, his mother slapped the side of his face. Layton looked at his mother, and then ran out of the room. He slammed, as hard as he could, the door to his bedroom. Why did everyone always treat him like crap, but then he was never allowed to treat them like crap back - it wasnt fair. Moments later, his mother knocked on the door and entered with a plate of pizza and a soda. Im sorry baby, she said as she set the food on the nightstand next to his bed. You know I hate that word. Do not say it anymore, and I dont care what your sister says. She leaned over and kissed and hugged him. Now I want you to eat your dinner, and then I want you to brush your teeth and go to bed. After Layton washed up and was lying in bed, he thought about Rick and wondered why he turned on him. Was he that

awful of a person? Was he such a pathetic human? A waste of space? Unable to sleep, Layton turned on the television his mother put in his room. Layton was prone to fits of insomnia. The doctor said it was stress and prescribed pills, but his mother was against medication, except for when legitimately sick, so she put an old television for him to watch when he couldnt sleep. It was an old thirteen inch television and it didnt have any cable not that it was compatible with digital signals. The only channels it got was 3, 6, and 9. That was okay, though, because cartoons were on 3 in the mornings, and there were always movies on 9, albeit black and white. Layton hated black and white, and he thought they were lame and should all be taken off the television they were so boring. But they did help him get back to sleep sometimes. In fact, it was already working, and his eyes lids became heavier and heavier. In between heavy blinks, some ugly old face came into view. His nose and eyes were most disturbing to Laytons vision. The ugly old guy attacked the man hed brought to his home, but Layton didnt understand why. He thought the women wanted to kiss

the frightened man, but then the ugly guy in the big black cape sent the women away. His eyes closed for a while but Layton hadnt realized hed fallen asleep. They opened again and there was a lady in white who was giving kids chocolate bars she bit him on the neck and Layton tried to pull away from her! At first, he was scared about being turned into a vampire, but, then, Layton rose and he was a powerful man like the one with the weird face and eyes. He could fly and it was amazing; everyone feared him, including Rick. They all called him Dracula, just like the man in the movie. Next morning was Sunday. Layton got up and groggily walked into the kitchen to get some cereal. Layton, his mother said. I need you to go to the store today. Oh mom! Why do I always have to go to the store? Why cant you send Heather? Heathers going to her friends house today. I dont want you in the house all day alone. You need to get some fresh air and a walk. She opened her wallet.

Now heres twenty dollars. I want you to get cereal, ravioli and paper towels, and then you can get something sweet for yourself. Later that day, he set out for the store. He put off walking to the store for as long as he could because he couldnt stand the heat, but it was nearly 5 o clock and his mother would be mad if he didnt go. Outside, the temperatures were scorching, and the heat from the ground radiated through the shoes on his feet. The worse part about walking to the store was that hed have to pass Ricks house, and he didnt want to see him, so instead he walked through an alley right behind Ricks house. He walked past Priddy and turned left into a large clearing that narrowed into an alleyway. Layton saw a house ahead that had full bloomed rose bushes along a chained link fence; the roses towered two feet above his head. In the very next yard, there was a black lab that stood and watched him approach. Layton stopped for a moment to look at the house that belonged to the yard with the rose bushes. It was an old broken building with broken windows and a large hole in the

door and in various parts of the walls. He jumped when, unexpectedly, he saw a woman with a feather in a baseball hat digging around in the yard. Hello, the woman looked up and noticed him. Hi. Is that your house? No. But its been condemned, so I wouldnt go in there if I were you. Im just using the yard to grow flowers. Why? Gotta pay some bills, and I could use the extra cash. I hope youre not planning to mess up my garden. No, I would never. Good. The black lab in the next yard walked up, stood on its rear and put its legs on the fence and whined for Layton to pet him. Thats Mad Dog. Oh, he said as he stroked his head. Well, Id better be going. Nice to meet you, said Layton You too. Layton continued along the alleyway. Ricks backyard was only two houses up, and he couldnt help wishing that he could set the place aflame with Rick inside.

Aww Mom! I dont want to invite him! Layton stopped walking when he heard that voice coming from the other side of the fence because he knew they were talking about him. Every year about that time, Layton would get an invitation to Ricks birthday party. Why not? asked Ricks mother. Layton stepped up close to the wooden slats and could see Rick was outside throwing the ball to his dog, and his mother was there. Because no one likes him. Not wanting to hear anymore, he continued on to the store. Inside, it was a relief to get out of the heat, and into the air conditioned store where he got the ravioli and what else was he supposed to get? Cereal. He walked over into the cereal aisle and looked at all the prices. His mother always complained that it was so expensive, $5 for a little box, but Layton wanted his favorite Count Chocula. The box was brown with a long chinned vampire who poured milk into a bowl of cereal with seeming delight. With the way he was feeling, he needed a pick me up as Dad always said, and he pulled the box from the

shelf knowing what his mother would say, later. Next, he wandered over to the candy section, in which, there were two kids laughing and playing with candy trucks; they were trucks made out of lolly pop-like material and encased in thin truck shaped cardboard. Cool trucks, Layton said, but they turned and said get away glass face. Yeah, youre ugly. Disturbed, Layton walked out of the store without paying for the ravioli or Count Chocula cereal. It was a shock when the stores proprietor came out and started to yell. Layton apologized and gave him the $20 and then walked off. Waait said the man, but Layton didnt want to wait he wanted to get far, far away. Walking back through the alleyway, he came across Mad Dog again. Layton stopped and petted him for a moment. The woman from the rose bush came over. Are you alright? she asked. You look kind of down.

Layton didnt say anything as he continued to pet the dog. Why dont you come in for a moment and have a soda. Come on, she opened the gate to her side of the property. My names Molly. Layton followed the woman into the house. She pulled off the ball cap and Layton noticed the feather was an eagle feather that looked like it wouldve made an excellent quill. It was long, light to dark tan with a long white tip. The woman had long curly medium brown hair and tan skin. Take a seat over there, and Layton walked into the living room, and Mad Dog followed. The dog laid his head in Laytons lap. My nephews are coming over in a bit; their names are Billy and Bob. Bobs more your age, and Billys a little bit older than you, but my sister and I want to go shopping at the Planks. They get really bored, but maybe you guys can hang out and watch some movies? Mind you, the neighbor might check in with you from time to time. Hes a good friend of mine. Sure, said Layton. Id love to hang out. Its so boring at home alone.

So I guess you and Rick arent friends anymore? How did you know Rick and I were friends? I used to see you over there playing, before they put up the fence. Silence ensued a moment; Layton took a sip of cola. Oh, look. Chasings on, a television show about law enforcement. Unsure of whether he should stay or not, Layton remained still in his seat and they watched together, in silence, a few moments. Well, I guess I should go. My mom will be back from work soon. Why dont you ask her if you can come and watch a movie? Im sure Billy and Bob would rather hang out and watch movies rather than shop with girls, and theyd love some company. Apparently, they are at the rental store. I know Billy wants to watch Fantasmo and Trixter. Hell be here alone most of the day hes twelve but very responsible. Okay but I have to ask my mom. She doesnt like it when I dont come home. Layton walked home in the cooling twilight. Up the driveway, his mothers car was already parked.

Where have you been? his mother asked angrily. I went to the store, and then this woman named Molly invited me to hang out with her nephews and watch movies. Can I go? I dont know who this Molly is and, until I meet her, you cant go hanging out at strangers houses. But shes real nice, and she thinks her nephew and I will get along. Why dont we go over there and you can meet her? Im so bored and Im sick of not having any friends. Its been two weeks and Ive spent every day alone. Im too tired. Not tonight. Wash up, make yourself some dinner, and she walked off. Wheres Heather? How come she gets to go out all the time? I dont know where shes at, but shes older than you. So you trust her but not me? Im way more responsible than she is. When you prove that to me, then we can talk. Layton shut his mouth, went into his room and shut the door. He didnt want to argue further because he was very close to

telling her what he really knew about Heather, which was that she hadnt even been going over to Charlottes, her best friends, house to hang out at all, but, instead shed been going to the bald spot where there was a river hidden by a line of trees, and the kids would sit on the bank and do things that they werent supposed to. He was always torn between wanting to get Heather in trouble and the relief he got from her being gone a lot. In the end, he decided her absence was far more valuable. His mother opened the door. Cant you knock? You always tell me too! Im going to bed early, as Im working the early shift tomorrow at the hospital. I want you to keep it quiet. By the way, you forgot to get paper towels, go to the store and get some tomorrow. All right, said Layton, thinking about the change hed left at the store. Good night and she shut the door.

Layton lay there and lay there but, again, he couldnt sleep. Finally, he looked up at the clock and it said 1 am. He turned on

the television and it was Dracula again, only this time it wasnt that freaky looking guy with a butt chin, as Rick would have called it. This time it was some tall skinny guy with a cape. Still, this sucks he thought, and he climbed out of bed and put on some clothes. He gently raised the window next to his bed and crawled through. He didnt know where he was going or what he was doing, but he just wanted to go for a walk. Layton knew it was stupid and probably dangerous, but it was a nice cool night with the sky so dark and the stars twinkling. Layton decided to go to the school and maybe sleep under the stars. Yeah, his mom would be mad, but she probably wouldnt even notice he was gone. Being a nurse, she was always working absurd hours, and, since his dad left home, shed been forced to take extra work to pay bills. Lately, shed hardly had time to notice that the kitchen sink was leaking, her garden was over grown, and that Layton hadnt washed his bed sheets in two weeks! He walked down the alley, passed the rose bushes, but stopped in his tracks. He walked backwards a few paces. Once again, Layton was a little mesmerized by the old house. It was spooky

yet he felt compelled to go in and see if it was haunted. Briefly, Layton had the idea of turning the abandoned house into his private getaway, so he wouldnt have to live with him mom and sister anymore. Rick had always told him things about that house, like the owner had died in it by falling down the stairs after he saw a ghost. He always dared him to go inside which he didnt, but at the moment he was feeling fearless. He unlatched the fence and walked through the garden. He looked at the flowers and then over the fence, but Mad Dog wasnt there. He tried to gently open the door, but it wasnt hinged and it slammed flat onto the ground, making a huge smashing noise. What was that? Layton heard from somewhere in the alley. Layton jumped at the sound of the voices and ran inside the house. He stopped on the other side of the wall and listened. It came from the old house, another voice said. Was that Rick and Jeff? What were they doing out at that time? Layton was about

to run through to the other end of the house and see if he could escape through the front door, but then he stopped when they spoke again, except they sounded as though they were right in the back yard. I dare you to go inside, said another voice. Layton peaked through a small crack in the wall and could see the twins were there too. No way, said Rick. Go on, butt head! said one of the Millers with force. Get going or well make you, said Jeff. It got quiet; Layton tried to think. To his left was a large drawing room separated by a half opened partition. He quietly squeezed through the opening and stood right against the opposite side. Finally, he heard footsteps make their way up onto the porch and into the small hallway. Layton started to shake the partition as violently as he could while making a high pitched creaking noise similar to a squeaking door; although it sounded more like a howling cat, Layton thought.

AAAAAAHH Layton watched Rick through a small hole in the partition. Hed jumped a mile high and then ran out. AAAAAAAAAAhhhh Layton could hear him yelling across the alley. Wait, hahaha, his friends laughed. What happened? Layton waited a moment until it sounded as though theyd left the yard. Then, he slowly, quietly crept out of the house and across the alley to the fence of Ricks backyard. What happened? Layton overheard. Something or someone was in there. Layton peaked between the wooden slats of the fence and saw they were in a sleeping tent - Ricks mother used to put them out there when their sleepovers were too rowdy. Feeling as though he didnt get them enough, Layton bent over and gathered some stones. He tossed them over the fence so theyd hit the tent. Oh my gosh, said Rick. What was that? Layton tossed another stone.

Well, go out and see what it is, yelled Brad. Through the space of the slat, Layton could see that someone had shoved Rick out of the tent. He tossed a rock at him and Rick ran straight indoors; the others remained in the tent laughing at Rick. Who is it? Whos there? called one of them from the tent. Layton picked up his feet and ran down the alley fast while trying to contain his laughter. He made it to the school, and he stretched out inside a plastic tube the kids would play in. It had been too long since hed had a good, hard laugh as he did that moment. Oh it felt good to get back at Rick even though he didnt know it was him. Only one thing troubled him and it was why Rick was friends with boys who sounded mean. Why choose mean boys over him? When he woke, it was to a dog licking his face - it was Mad Dog. He climbed out of the large green plastic tube. Hey! What are you doing in there? called Molly.

I fell asleep. Why didnt you come by yesterday? My mom said I couldnt because she was tired and she didnt know you. Oh well, if you get bored, come by later. I have some yard work Id love you to help me with. Later on, we can go and meet your mom. My nephews will be over again later. You guys could keep each other company. Okay. Bye. Layton walked back home. When he got there, he saw his mother had already gone to work, so he made himself cereal and watched television. Wheres Mom? asked Heather. Work. Where were you last night? With your boyfriend? Shut up or Ill kick you. The Party Chapter 2 Despite not wanting to invite Layton, he got an invitation, like regular, to Ricks 10th birthday party.

Layton, his mother called. He walked up and read the invitation. Here, she handed him a $20 bill, get him a nice birthday present. Rick hates me. Why should I get him a present? Because he was nice enough to invite you. Later that day, he decided to go and visit with Molly. She wasnt all that bad and it would be nice to have something else to think about instead of his life at the moment. His mother at work as usual, and Heather off being a sordid teenager, Layton walked to Mollys who was digging out the other side of the yard and planting more flowers. Cant you get into trouble for planting in someones yard? No one, personally, owns it; it was foreclosed on by the bank. Besides, the flowers will bloom and Ill harvest them in a few months time. Why dont you grab that shovel over there, you can start on these, said Molly handing him a shovel and a packet of marigolds.

Layton was amazed at how much he enjoyed working out in the hot summer day, despite the heat and sweat that affected every bit of his body. Layton and Molly took turns digging planting, soiling and watering; they took turns drinking the cold water from the water hose. For the first time, he didnt think remember to think of himself as a loser. About noon, the sounds of laughter and shouting boomed through the house. Into the backyard came Mollys sister Melinda and her two kids: Billy and Bob. Billy was a tall dark half-Mexican with ashy legs and dirty scruffy clothes; it was obvious he was a boy who liked to play hard. His younger brother, Bob, was in the third grade and, although he had the same father as Billy, was light and golden like his mother. Unlike his brother, Bob was more laid back and liked to talk, and his clothes were less scruffy. Mollys sister, Melinda, was carrying a bag of tacos and a couple liters of cola. After a round of introductions, they sat around the living room table, as it was a tiny house, and ate tacos and watched a movie. Mom, can Billy and I go to Golf n Games after this?

No. We have to go get a present for Rick across the way. He invited you to his birthday party. I was invited to the party, too, said Layton. My mom told me to get him a gift. Well, you can come with us. After lunch, they piled into Melindas SUV; Layton crammed in between Billy and Bob. They drove to the Planks Shopping Mall where they went to the toy shop and picked out gifts for Ricks party. They wandered along an isle full of cars. Oh wow, Billy exclaimed at the H scale train set, I want this. Mom!?! and Billy walked off to find his mother. So how old are you? asked Bob. Ten. Oh cool. Im eight but Ill be nine in a few months. It sucks being the youngest. I have to do everything Billy tells me, like last night when he made me smear toothpaste on the seat of our neighbors, bike. He wouldnt tell me why, but only that hed put my feet behind my ears and sit on me if I didnt do it, but I know hes mad because the neighbors daughter broke up with him. I threatened to tell Mom, but then he said if I did, then hed

put potato bugs in my cereal, and he already put jumping spiders in my shoes so I figured Id better do as he says. I have an older sister, but shes gone all the time, thankfully. I hate her so much shes a bully. What should we get Rick? I dont even know him that well. How about a box of dirt? Im not buying him anything; I dont care what my mom says. How come you hate him? Because hes a jerk. Oh, WHOA! Layton shouted at an electronic sling shot. He pulled it off the shelf. It had a miniature telescope, so you could zero in on your target. He pulled the trigger, and the plastic pulled the bands back into place. Layton inserted the little pellet into the plastic fold that appeared when the bands were in position, and then he pressed the button again and WHAM! The pellet ricocheted off both sides of the aisles; Layton and Bob hit the ground. Who hoa hoa Coooool. Let me try, only Bob, looking around, saw Billy standing at the end of the aisle. Bob pressed his eye up to the telescope and aimed the slingshot at Billys back.

OOOWWW!!! Billy looked murderous as he chased Bob around and into the next aisle. Barely able to control his laughter so that he could breathe, Layton grabbed an unopened electronic sling shot package. This will come in handy. For the first time in weeks, Layton had a really good day. Molly invited Layton to stay for dinner, and he really wanted to but he needed to get home and stash the slingshot, for if his mother found it, shed never let him keep it. As it was, shed be mad that he didnt get Rick a birthday present. Layton opened the door to his home, and there on the couch was Heather. Her boyfriend was lying on top of her and giving her kisses. What the hell are you doing? Get out of here, Layton! Youd better pray that I dont tell mom wholl be home any minute! and he walked to his room and slammed the door shut.

Layton opened his slingshot and practiced aiming at the paper target that came with it. Heather opened the door, Where did you get that? Get out, Heather! Mike is gone. Youd better not tell Mom or Ill kill you! and she slammed the door. That night, his mother came home and yelled at Layton for not getting Rick a present, like she asked. She especially flipped when he didnt have the money shed given him. He told her he spent it at the ice cream shop, and she nearly went hoarse yelling at him about how they didnt have money to waste. That night his father called to say hello and apologized for not meeting him and his sister. The only reason Layton went to the phone was to keep his mother from further yelling at him, but, as usual, he held the receiver and didnt say a word. Layton? Layton? but he just sat there in silence for fifteen minutes as he watched television, but his dad was used to his behavior by now. Look, Im sorry but I had to work, but Layton knew it wasnt that he had to work, but it was that he was with

his new girlfriend and their new baby. He just didnt want to say so because he didnt want them to think he was choosing his new family over them, or, at least, thats what his mother accused him of one night. When his father told him to hang up, he did so without saying goodbye and went to his room and shut the door. What is this? Vampire week? Only this time, it was a funny one though. An old guy with white hair pranced about, looking goofy. Laytons eyes gently closed. A moment later they opened. The doctor and some guy were standing about. Did you put a bug in your mouth? It was a raspberry. Were not serving raspberries! Then it mustve been a raisin, see theres one missing from the muffin. Oh okay wait! You did it again. What? You put a bug in your mouth! Haha, laughed Layton. This one wasnt so bad, and he couldnt go to sleep after that scene. Several hours passed, Dead and Loving It long over, Layton was now fully

intrigued by the 1931 Dracula which was re running. It was a dark film, and even more so as the film was in black and white. Periodically, he put his head under the cover, but now that he understood the movie thanks to the old white haired guy he understood this other old creepy guy with the spooky eyes. The following week was more of the same thing: his mother would go to work, his sister would pretend to go to Charlottes, and Layton would be left all alone in the house. His mother was kind enough to put him in charge of all the shopping, considering that he had nothing to do. Today, the list was milk, eggs, and butter. After putting off going to the store as long as he could, he put on his shoes and took the money, his mother left him, off the table. When he approached Priddy Street, he decided to take the alley way down, and not so much to avoid seeing Rick this time, but in the hopes of running into Molly and her nephews. As he passed the flowers in the yard of the condemned house, he noticed the seeds hed planted had already begun to grow; little green sprouts were sticking out of the ground as though reaching for something. Reaching

over the fence, he put his cupped hands in the water of the sprinkler and pour it down his back. Next door, Mollys house appeared to be still, but Mad Dog was in the yard and ran up to him. Layton scratched and stroked him. Across the way and two houses up, he heard some commotion going on in the backyard. Ricks family must have been getting ready for the party, and they always loved to have a theme of some sort. One year, it was Batman and Robin, the next was Superman, maybe this year it would be the Green Lantern Rick loved superheroes which was something they once had in common. He continued onto the store and back, and then he spent the day bored and watching lame daytime television. The next day was the party. Layton woke, quietly put on his clothes, and attempted to sneak through the front door after grabbing a cereal bar from the kitchen, but his mother caught him and, instead, made him put on his nice shirt for the party. Further, to make sure he didnt skip out, she drove him to Ricks house and walked him up to the door; Layton kept his head down as his mom and Ricks mother chatted.

His mom handed Ricks mother a bag, and then she turned and left. Layton silently walked over the threshold, through the house, and into the backyard where a barbeque was going; the theme was Spiderman. Some of the older guests were standing about the grill or under the awning on the patio conversing. To his right, he saw Rick, Jeff, and the twins playing a short game of football with each other. Hey, said Jeff loudly. Isnt that Layton Funk? He continued to the back and unlatched the wooden gate and was prepared to leave, but, then, Billy and Bob from across the way almost walked into him. Hey, Layton, said Bob. Slowly, Layton retreated back into the yard, Hey, guys. Layton, called Ricks mom. Were you trying to sneak out? All in all, it wasnt a bad day; Rick and his buddies didnt say anything to Layton, Bob, or Billy. Rick and his buddies tossed the football while Layton, Bob, and Billy sat bored in a shaded corner of the yard.

When it was time to eat, Ricks group made an effort to sit at the opposite end of the wooden bench and table, which left the adults to sit in the middle. After lunch, Ricks parents brought out the cake and everyone, except Layton (and Bob out of loyalty), sang happy birthday. When it was time to open the presents, they sat and watched Rick and the adults ooh and aaah over the toys hed got. Wow! The Brancham Monster Set! and Whoa! A water proof DVD player! For each person, he read off a name and said Thanks. Finally, he picked up a package and didnt say anything at all. And who is that present from? asked his mother. Layton Funk, Rick blushed. Layton was shocked! He just remembered his mother handed a bag to Ricks mother before she left! His mother always got people the worst gifts! Instantly, Layton knew this was going to be bad.

Rick untied the gold ribbon and pulled back the blue wrapping. Layton! You idiot. You always get me the worst gifts, and he threw the package across the table to him. The package smacked him in the head and landed in front of him. Rick! You ungrateful! Apologize! but hed run off into the house. His mother followed him inside where they could all hear shouting coming from the kitchen. He looked down at the package. It was a white watch with pictures of cats frolicking on the band. His face turned completely red. I didnt know. My mother got it for him. Let me see, said Billy. Turning the watch over in his hand, he said, Well, it wouldnt be so bad if he were a girl! Rick didnt say another word to Layton while they were there. Layton, Bob, and Billy sat under the shade in a corner of the yard while Rick and his buddies continued to play football. Layton tried to remain calm but, inside, he was madder than ever because of what Rick did to him in front of the guests. Once more, hed made Layton feel completely humiliated in front of people.

Yeah, it was a crappy gift, but was that an excuse to hurt him? Another hour passed and Layton, bored out of his mind and still seething, was ready to leave until Bob stopped him. Want to spend the night? asked Bob. Yeah, Id love too. Here, Billy handed Layton his cell phone. Call your mom and ask. Later that night, they lay awake, watching television: Bob on his bed and Layton on a cot. Molly came in and checked on them. She brought two mugs of hot chocolate with her and set them down on the night stand. Dont stay up too late guys. Layton peaked through the window and saw there was a light on in the backyard of Ricks house. He wondered if they were camping out in the back, again, and wouldnt it be fun to scare him? What are you looking at?

The lights are on in Ricks backyard. I was thinking it would be really funny to scare him, again. Again? Another hour passed, and Bob was asleep. Layton, however, was burning to get back at Rick for what he did at the birthday party. He knew he should stay in bed, as he didnt want to worry Bobs aunt who had been so kind to him, but he was compelled to see what Rick was doing. Slowly and quietly, he opened the window and crawled out onto the soft dewy lawn. He looked to his right and left and saw that only street lamps lit the alleyway. He ran over to the fence and peaked between the wooden slats, but it was hard to see anything. Then, he quietly unlatched the fence. Not seeing Rick or his tent in the back, he walked around to the side of the house. The curtains to his window had not been completely drawn, and Layton could see Rick was asleep in his bed. He took his finger nail and dragged it down the pane of glass, creating a high pitched scratch. Rick was a light sleeper, and Layton knew it wouldnt take much to wake him. Layton scratched it several times more, and Rick sat straight up in bed his eyes

bugged out and his mouth hanging open as he looked toward the window. Layton decided to try it once more, and he scratched from the very top of the window down. Layton heard a mild cry from Ricks mouth as he got out of bed and ran out of the room. Not wanting Ricks parents to find him in the backyard, Layton ran out, fast, and quickly, quietly unlatched and closed the gate. What are you doing? Layton nearly screamed - it was Bob! I felt the cold air and it woke me up, then, I looked over, and you were gone. What were you doing? Nothing. Lets go back to bed.

Fangs Chapter 3 The next morning, Layton and Bob sat down to eggs and bacon with Billy. Coffee in hand, Molly went to work in the next yard. About noon, the boys decided to walk to the school and play on the grounds there. So where do you guys live? asked Layton. On the other side of town. Our mother works a lot to support us, so we come over here, said Billy. What about your dad? Gone. Never see him, said Bob. Sorry to hear that. My dad is around but hes more concerned with his new family now. I think our dad has a new girlfriend, too. My teacher says the average man will have three families in his lifetime, quoted Billy. Three families! That hardly seems fair! No wonder kids never see their fathers. Thats not all. The average woman will have two families in her life.

No wonder kids hate their moms, said Bob. Well, I dont really hate my parents, said Layton, but Im really mad at them, both. Same here, Bob agreed. Tired of the dreary conversation, Ya hoooo! exclaimed Bob as he ran to the monkey bars and, instead of swinging across by the arms, climbed atop and walked over them, like some sort of balancing act. Layton and Billy followed, and then ran wild through the tubed tunnels of a play house. Later that day, Layton returned home for a shower and change of clothes. He started to pack another overnight bag when his mother walked in and asked what he was doing. He explained that he was going to spend another night at Mollys with Bob and Billy. No, youre not, she said. Why not? Because youre going to meet your father. Its Lilys birthday today. Lily was the name of his new little girl. I dont want to go.

Too bad. Go put on a clean shirt and then well go pick up Heather. Twenty minutes later, they were in the car and driving to Charlottes house, where Heather was supposed to be. Layton knew that this could end with Heather getting in big trouble. He didnt know if he was happy or sad about that. On one hand, he would love to see her get busted for a change, but, on the other hand, she would probably be grounded forever. Layton didnt know if he could stand her being home all the time. Did you call Heather and tell her were picking her up? Layton asked, candidly. No, but I should have, she said as she reached for her phone. Hello Jane. Can I talk to Heather please? There was a pause as Charlottes mother told her that, as Layton expected, Heather wasnt there. The look on her face was sour and Layton, who was never a really good liar, felt his skin get hot. Huh, sighed his mother. So, he hesitated, was Heather there?

No. She hasnt seen her in a couple days. Layton knew this wasnt good news because he didnt think Heather had been home in a few days, either. They pulled up to Charlottes house, Wait in the car. Layton watched her walk up to the house. She and Charlottes mother stood there for about fifteen minutes, and then she headed back to the car. Whats up? I dont know. Who else does she know? Silence. She pulled out her phone and called Laytons father who hadnt heard from Heather either, yet enjoyed yelling at his mom and telling her that she was an unfit parent. Next, she called the police who, as soon as they pulled up to their house, were waiting to take a report, but they didnt seem to take Heathers disappearance very serious. When she asked why, the officer replied,

Children often disappear when their parents work a lot, but they all usually return. What are you saying? That this is my fault? his mother asked, incredulously. No. Were saying that, most of the reports we get of this kind - , those whose parents work a lot seem to have trouble keeping tabs on their kids. Now, eventually, they all come home, and we understand youre struggling we dont blame you, but kids who feel their parents have abandoned them tend to be the ones who rebel by doing things like this. Layton saw his mothers face turn from sallow to red hot. Despite wanting to go to Mollys, she insisted he stay home with her that night. Layton, wanting to get away from his ranting mother, went to his room and lay on his bed. At 9 pm, Layton was in the bathroom brushing his teeth when he heard his mothers cell phone ring. Wondering if it were Heather, he tip toed into the hallway to overhear his mother. Where are you? and then, from there, it got considerably worse. YOUD

BETTER GET YOUR BUTT HOME NOW! Layton tried to sneak back to his room, but as she passed, he noticed she was making funny sniffle noises she was crying. Whats wrong? Its nothing. Im just really stressed out. Ive been working around the clock and this is what I have to deal with. You dont know where she is, do you? No. Then, feeling bad, Layton continued, Sometimes she hangs out with her friends by the river. Show me, she got up and got her purse. Layton just stood there, Come on, lets go, she motioned toward the door with her arm. They got into the car, which was still warm from the heat of the day, and they drove to the side of the forest; they walked into the bald spot and into the trees by the river where there was a small run down wooden house that should have been condemned. Near the river bed, she looked up and down, but saw no one. There was a small crackling noise that caught his

mothers attention. Gripping Laytons hand tightly, they walked onto the small porch landing of the old house. On the other side was a group of teens huddled around a fire, smoking and drinking; there, in the middle of the group, was Heather. Laytons Mother and Heather, both, looked shocked; their eyes locked for a moment, but then Heather got up and put one leg over the wooden fence. Laytons mother ran after her and caught her by the hair just as she was about to put her other leg over the fence. She put her other arm through Heathers and dragged her back into the fenced off side yard, over the porch landing, and then out to the car: Layton followed. Heather screamed and screamed, but his mom forced her into the car. Laaayton, Ill kill you! Heather screamed. I had to tell her, she was crying and called the cops. Dont give him a hard time. Youre the one in trouble here. Youre not going anywhere ever again! She started the car and there was silence for a few moments, but, when they pulled up to a stop sign, Heather jumped out

of the car and ran. Laytons mom left the car running as she jumped out and went after her. Layton turned around in the back seat and saw Heather run off into a side alley with mother in tow. A moment later, his defeated looking mother returned to the car without Heather, and they went home. The next morning, Heather was still gone. His mother stayed home from work that day and didnt leave the bed. Not wanting to bother her, he packed his bag, had some breakfast and left. Even if he didnt see Bob that day, there was no way he was going to stay in the house with her. Not once, throughout the incident, did his mother ask if he was okay. She didnt come over to see if he was even still alive; she didnt even talk to him not even to say goodnight. He contemplated how his mother hadnt been around for months, except for the few moments shed take out of her day to bark orders at them like they were servants, and now shes all depressed over Heather who was a mean, atrocious little brat, yet shows no concern for her son whom she left in an unparked car. Why is it that the meanest kids are the most revered? He, further, contemplated Rick who had everything a kid could want the

newest toys and all the superhero comics he could possibly want, and all the birthday parties (no one had ever thrown Layton any kind of party); Jeff Barley who, although dumb as door knob, dressed the best and was always going to amusement parks the teachers always took extra time to mentor him even though he refused to do his homework; the twins who made intimidation their specialty, always had the best snacks, phones, gadgets and always got looks of approval from teachers; Lastly, there was Heather who, despite having money troubles, always got brand new clothes and even the contact lenses Layton had asked for! Never mind that she verbally abused him on a daily basis, yet here nice and respectful, shy Layton was lucky to get a decent hello from anybody in his whole existence. He walked down the street that, although there was a cool breeze, was already getting pretty hot. He walked up to the abandoned house and sat on the shaded porch. He pulled out his sling shot and practiced shooting rocks across the lawn at the buds of the roses. It took a while but he started to get somewhat good with his aim, and he hit several buds right on their bases he grinned as he watched their flower burst and flutter to the ground.

Layton, a voice called, youre not shooting my flowers that I worked so hard for. No. Im really sorry. Please dont be mad. I wont do it again. What are you doing here? Im cooling off for a bit. Why arent you at home? Its only 9 am. I got up early to avoid my mom. She and my sister had a fight, and my sister ran off. My mom is home being depressed. Well, come over. The kids will be here later this afternoon. Layton hung out in front of the television, and then he helped Molly with the flowers. Several hours went by when, at last, Billy and Bob were standing in the yard and Molly was telling them to pot some soil, which they did with great reluctance. The sun shone harder and harder on their backs but Molly refused to let them go until the job was done. Unfortunately, Bob started a water fight with Billy that led to an all-out war between them: Bob, sick of hearing Billy complain, sprayed him in the back, drenching him; Billy responded by sitting on him and dumping a pot of soil on

his head. When Bob tried to get back up, Billy pushed him back down, grabbed the hose and soaked him, turning him into a brown muddy mess. Finally, Molly told them they didnt have to work anymore. They went inside and Bob took a shower. An hour later, and still suffering from the heat, Molly decided they should all go to the mall and get some corn dogs and ice cream. What a great idea! As soon as they walked in the door of the Planks, the cold air hit them all, and they sighed with relief. After their indulgence, they walked around and browsed the shops in the mall. They walked through several toy shops and a few novelty shops that sold things like fake shrunken heads and loads of incense. Soon after, they came upon the Haunted Halloween Shop which was always open for the summer. Bob was only too happy to follow Layton when he exclaimed that the joke aisle was his favorite section. They closely examined all the fake candy: cod liver oil candy in a variety of different colors, black pepper bubble gum, itching powder and stink bombs, of which Layton happily stocked up on. Next they walked through all the costumes. They tried on various monster and

superheroes, and numerous funny wigs. When they finally got into the vampire costume section, Layton felt a jolt of excitement in his every bone. There were long capes, short capes, red and black capes, black wigs, white wigs as well as white streaked black wigs, short fangs, long fangs, and entire mouth pieces. After trying everything on, Bob, Billy, and Molly tired of the vampire costumes and wondered into some other aisles. While they were off looking at other costumes, Layton counted his money. He had just $10, but that was enough to buy the fangs with the plastic molds you melt in the microwave and they could be re melted for just $5; then there was a cheap little black widow peaked wig for $5! Molly wouldnt mind lending a little extra, and so he was set. After that, the wheels turned in his head, and it must have shown too because Bob asked him several times what he was thinking. He didnt want to tell him that he could make a cape out of the red sheet his mother didnt use anymore, that with the stink pellets, sling shot, fangs and wig, he could finally get back at Rick; Rick who was easily scared, and who was probably already feeling paranoid because of what Layton had, already, done.

All in all, it was a fantastic day. Layton was thinking about giving Rick another visit that night. He was happy and elated until his mother called Mollys house. She was angry that Layton had been away all day, and she ordered him to come home. Why? Its only 4 pm; youre always working at this time; youre always telling me I need to get out of the house, so why are you making me come home now that Ive found something to do? I dont want any more back talk. I want you in this door in 15 minutes! Youre always taking out your problems on me. Dont like your life, so youll tell me what to do with mine; no time to visit with your friends, so youll tell me I need to get out and get some; Heather goes missing and youre angry, so now you want me to come home! His mother started to reply, but Layton hung up on her in the middle of the sentence. She always liked to talk to him like he was an idiot, so there was no point in listening. Shed say he didnt understand, he should show her some respect, yada yada Well, Layton thought she should show him

some respect by having an honest conversation: one with real replies, and not just do as youre told. So, when he walked in the door, his mother tried to talk to him, but he cut her off, went to his room, and shut the door. It was the same thing with his dad. Dad thought Layton couldnt tell when he was lying, but he could, and thats why he refused to talk to him most times. He ignored his mothers call for dinner and stayed up watching television until 3 am in the morning. When he knew his mother was sure to be asleep, he crawled out of bed and got the red sheets from the hallway closet. He cut out a red half circle shaped cape from his mothers old red bed sheet. For fun, he pinned it around his neck, put on the wig and inserted his glue in fangs, which he snuck out to melt in the microwave. Whoa! Except for his glasses, he looked pretty spooky. He slipped off the glasses and it was foggy but his vision cleared up a bit after a few minutes. He snuck into Heathers room and stole her Manic Panic Hemlock white face powder and powdered his face, neck and applied red lipstick. He stowed back into his room, pocketed his sling shot, stink bombs and filled his pocket with little rocks hed

gathered, from the alleyway for the sling shot, and then made off for the alley. That night, they were finally having a cool off period, and fog and dew had settled heavily onto the ground. All the street lights were on and most of the houses were dark. Along the alleyway, it was dead quiet. He snuck up to the wooden slats and peaked through. Carefully and quietly, he opened the gate and walked up to Ricks side of the house. Standing on tip toe, he tried to see through the foggy windows; there was a lit lamp inside and sleeping bags were on the floor. Layton wiped, clear, a spot on the glass. Although he couldnt tell which one, at first, one of the twins spotted him and shot up into sitting position from the ground. Layton ducked below the window sill. What was that? Layton heard through the pane of glass. What? Someone in the window, looked like a zombie white skin and dead eyes. Ah hahaha, they laughed. Youre just as gullible as Rick.

A second later, Layton heard the glass door open around the back. He looked through the window Oh my Gosh! exclaimed one of the boys inside who saw his head poke up - and saw that one of the twins had left the room. Panicking, Layton remained dead still where he was, but when Brad stepped into view, Layton stood out under the lighted portion of the cement, grabbed the sides of his cloaked and raised his arms to the sky, the way Dracula flung his cape in the movie. Brad disappeared back around, and into, the house. Layton tried to look through the window, which had fogged up again. Thinking of the lady in white from the films, he wrote the word, in large backward letters, in the fogged, dewy glass, E T A L - O - C O H - C. Then he wiped another clear circle on the pane, next to the words. He leaned in close to see inside the room. Rick and his buddies stood still, all staring at Laytons face through the window. Layton realized that, still, none of the boys recognized him, which made him feel more confident. Layton continued by writing in smaller letters below the word, chocolate, w-o-r-r-o-m-o-t i-d. t-h-g-i-n r-o e-

It took him a minute or two to finish, and especially since he wasnt accustomed to writing words backward, but he had to so his message would be seen on the other side of the window. Layton stood back, a few feet, from the window, allowing his full self to be seen. He threw his cape once more by raising his arms skyward, and opened his mouth wide to show the fangs inside. Layton didnt know what John Millers intent was, but he ran to the window and threw it open. Instinctively, Layton hurled a stink bomb through the window, and the plastic broke inside, instantly releasing a foul sewage odor. The smell was stronger than Layton had anticipated, as up until that point, he had not broken a stink pellet before. Unfortunately, the smell was so strong that Layton had begun to hack it was like a thousand rotten eggs-, and his eyes to water. Through his squint eyes, he noticed Rick and his buddies were covering their mouths and coughing too. Layton took the opportunity to pull out his slingshot, which hed already loaded with little rocks. He pulled back the plastic trigger, set the button, and CRACK-POPCRACK half a dozen pellets jetted, at once, in all directions of the room, and then

ricocheted off the walls. OW! Cried Rick whod grabbed his forehead. UUUghh! Cried Brad whod taken a couple rocks to the chest. John hit the floor, and the others followed suit. The door to Ricks bedroom opened, and a light flooded the room. Layton didnt waste time. He ran up to the gate, unlatched and closed it as quietly as he could, and then took off, fast. In a hurry to get out of there, Layton didnt realize that he was being watch until he heard a high pitch scream, like a girls. Jerking his head, there, outside in the alley, was Bob who ran fast back toward Mollys house. What was Bob doing out? Layton didnt stop to find out, but he made it through the window and into his room five minutes later. Quickly, he undressed and wiped the makeup from his face; he hid away his costume. It was only when he was lying in bed that his heart slowed its beats, and then he laughed and laughed, until he fell asleep.