The Hidden Letter

Dear Juliet,

I can only compare thou smile to a blooming pedal in the middle of the spring. Art thou allowed to love rather than pretend? Thou hath played me for the last 3 acts, teasing me with lips and hands only comparable to the most beautiful of the angels. I only spoke in this tongue because you say that it turned you on even in thou worst states.

Now I am done speaking in this rubbish of a language. All along I followed you with my heart in my hands awaiting your approval. Now I see that it was indeed his heart that you had hidden under your flesh. I see that it was his eyes that you compared to oceans, not mine at all. I doubt that I will ever post this letter; by the time you read it I will be long gone. I would never have found out if it wasn’t for the Friar giving me the truth potion. I saw everything, the kisses, the laughter, the lies. So tonight, I am giving up on everything that I’ve ever known. You do not know that I am aware of your selfish act of adultery. Therefore, in the midst of the night, I will sneak into the church and poison myself with the drink of the gods. Then, Balthasar will spread the message to you and your new lover. When all is said and done you will see my paralyzed body lying cold on the ground. Then you will realize what you have done and cry over my lifeless body. Then, when all hope is gone, I will wake up and spit at your feet. You will realize the terrible act that you have committed and beg for my forgiveness. Hopefully at this time, your lover, my cousin-Benvolio will arrive to watch you cry yourself to a slow and painful death. Dearest Juliet, our story is nothing but a lie.

With Love,

“Your” Romeo

by Nicolas Grabowski

Romeo and Julia: by Eric Richardson

Eric Richardson

Part 1:The meeting
Rome was the most handsome looking guy at Shakespeare college. All of the women were in love with his looks. He had hair that was long and golden brwon, and a smile that could light up your day. Romeo had all of the ladies after him, but he was not interested in Shakespeare collge girls. Not one of them swept him off of his feet. Julia was a beautiful woman also at Shakespeare college. She was smart, angelic and fun to be around. Her friends said that she is the life of the party and she is always up for a good time. There was a party going on at her house and everyone was invited. The party was going very well until Romeop came along. All of the women flocked towards him as if the party was in his honor. Right when this was happening Romeo laid eyes on the most beautiful girl he has ever seen. The beautiful girl stared back at him for awhile. Both of them looked as if they had just found their long lost lover. The girl happened to be Julia's sister and she was not as wild as her sister. Romeo went over to talk to her, but he found that she is still in high school. Romeo had a strict rule to never fall for a high school student. Julia appeared and ask Romeo if he could leave, because his good looks it taking everyones attention from her. Romeo took one look at Julia and instantly fell in love. Julia however did not feel the same She had her friends escort Romeo out of her house. Romeo just realized after the party that he had to do anything to make Julia his.

Part2: Getting together, Problems arise
Julia could not get over the student she met at the party. The weird thing about all of this is that they never introduced each other. The next day at school she asks everyone who the hot blonde hair guy. Ever girl screamed out Romeo. Julia was begginning to have feelings for Romeo, but she did not know how to express them. Julioa found Romeo hanging out in the hallway and she completely lost track of everything except him. Romeo was very happy and surprised to meet Julia, but he wasnt ready to admit it yes. He wanted to make sure that she felt the same about him at first. Julia did not take long admitting her feelings for Romeo, but Romeo wanted to keep up the act. Julia passed the test with flying colors, but each friendship group had a problem with this. The felt that the two most beautiful people in school could not date each other. The group of friends that Danny and Julia are in dont like each other.

Part3: The Solution
Julia and Romeo found out that their group of friends were plotting to break them up. They did not like the idea of them being together so they got together to ruin their relationship. All of them decided that they would lie to their friends and tell them mean things. Julia was told that she is not that pretty and that Romeo told them to say that to her. Romeo was told that his breath smeels bad and that Julia forced them to say that. Julia and Romeo met each attmpt with a laugh, knowing that this game their friends were playing is never going to work. Julia and Romeo met each other later that day to come up with a solution to their problems. Even though they disregarded what their frinds sid about them, they could not help to think if any of that stuff was true. As the months went on Juila became very sad and depressed by the words of her friends. She did nto fell like the most beautiful woman at Shakespeare college. Romeo was saddened by the words of his friends, but his main problem was watching Julia dealing with her feelings. To escape their feelings and saddness both Romeo and Julia decided it was best to drop out and start theit own life in anothe country. That is exactly what they did and they never looked back. The managed to go Stratford Avon the birthplace of Shakepseare. Their onlyother choice was to commit suicide to cover their problems. The could not bear the hatred shown to them by their friends. Julia said the only thing that stopped her commiting that act was the fact that she had not poison drinks. Romeo chose life over suicide, because Julia was till alive.

Fan Faction: Romeo and Juliet

Ext. Garden – Night

Romeo creeps around CLUMSILY through the Capulet Garden. He stops when he reaches
the base of Juliet’s balcony. He picks up a stone to toss at her window, but the
lights of a room downstairs in the house come on. VOICES rise.
Romeo ducks down between some bushes. While he is hiding underneath Juliet’s
balcony ENTER JULIET with friend EMILIA in conversation.

JULIET – What a lovely night.

EMILIA- Pray me! Juliet look at the moon.

JULIET – Oh my…

EMILIA – Sorry you must forgive me… you were saying?

JULIET – Yes, I met a boy!

EMILIA – A boy?

JULIET – Yes at my father’s ball.

EMILIA – Surely you must tell me his name Juliet!

JULIET - Romeo…
From in the bushes Romeo peeks his head out. The lights and VOICES from
downstairs have gone. The girl’s conversation has his interest.

EMILIA – My fair cousin, what shall you do about Paris? You know your father has
sworn your hand to marriage to him.
Juliet hangs her head.

JULIET - Perhaps…

EMILIA – You know he’d never budge.

JULIET - I know cousin, it shouldn’t help matters at all that the name my heart
beats for belongs to mine father’s only enemy.

EMILIA – Surely you can’t mean-

JULIET – Yes… Montague.

EMILIA – The scoundrell!

JULIET – Emilia! You shouldn’t say such a thing! He is rather sweet.

EMILIA – Your father will not approve of this one bit.

JULIET – Oh surely you mustn’t speak a word of this to anyone!

EMILIA – And what exactly is in it for me?

JULIET – What do you mean?

EMILIA – Certainly you cannot expect me to keep such news to my self without some
sort of compensation.

JULIET – My nerves! What would you like?

EMILIA pauses for a moment and thinks.

EMILIA – I am not sure I should keep such a serious issue from your father.

JULIET Emilia… No! You cannot-

A VOICE calls from within the house.

OFFSTAGE VOICE – Emilia, your father has arrived.

EMILIA – I am sorry dear cousin, I must be off.

EMILIA kisses JULIET’S cheek, while JULIET continues to plead with her.

JULIET – So you won’t say anything right?

EMILIA walks off the balcony and into the house pretending not to hear JULIET’S
last request. JULIET turns around in disgust and lets her head hang over the
railing of the balcony in defeat. ROMEO looks up to see her and ducks into the
shadows out of sight. The windows in the house have come on again and
silhouettes can be seen through the windows.

JULIET – O Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo?

Deny thy father and refuse thy name;

Or, if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love,
And I'll no longer be a Capulet.

ROMEO slightly perks his head to this.

ROMEO - Shall I hear more, or shall I speak at this?

JULIET - is but thy name that is my enemy.
Thou art thyself, though not a Montague.
What's Montague? It is nor hand, nor foot,
Nor arm, nor face. O, be some other name
Belonging to a man.

ROMEO musters up the courage to finally say something and just as he is about to
speak.

A VOICE FROM WITHIN – What?! A Montague?

JULIET jerks her head up, wide-eyed and dashes into her room. ROMEO, wide-eyed
runs off stage.

Fade to black.

(by Brianna Larivey)

FAN FICTION: Twelfth Night

1. EXT. BEACH - NIGHT

Laying. face down on the beach, washed up on the shore, is SEBASTIEN. Also on
stage, is ANTONIO who is approaching the man laying - face down on the beach.

ANTONIO – Escuse me. Sir?

PAUSE.

ANTONIO – Sir, can you hear me at all?

SILENCE

ANTONIO crouches down beside SEBASTIEN and rolls him over. SEBASTIEN is clearly unconscious. ANTONIO slings his rapier over his shoulder and hoists SEBASTIEN over his right shoulder. ANTONIO carries SEBASTIEN off stage as lights fade to black.

2. INT. – BEDROOM - DAY

SEBASTIEN is propped up in a bed, his various wounds wrapped and bandaged.

ENTER ANTONIO.

ANTONIO – Sebastien I have brought your breakfast.

SEBASTIEN – What delectable meal have you brought me?

ANTONIO – Whole grain toast and eggs.

SEBASTIEN – You are such a kind host Antonio. I cannot express to you enough my
gratitude for your hospitality.

ANTONIO – You are quite welcome. Do you take sugar with your coffee?

SEBASTIEN – No thank you.

ANTONIO places the breakfast plate over SEBASTIEN so he can eat and his cup of
coffee on the nightstand by the bed.

SEBASTIEN – SO how long exactly was I out for?

ANTONIO – well I don’t know how long you were laying on the beach for, but after
I found you, three days.

SEBASTIEN – There were no others?

ANTONIO – No sir. But where I found you, there was no debris from the wreck
anyway. You must have been separated.

SEBASTIEN – So then there could be survivors! Has there been any news from Illyria?

ANTONIO – I am afraid not yet.

SEBASTIEN – I need to find my sister.

SEBASTIEN tries to get out of bed, but winces in pain and falls back.

ANTONIO – You can’t over-exert yourself. We will find your sister. You must rest
first though and regain your energy.

SEBASTIEN – You’re right. But will you do me a favor?

ANTONIO – Certainly.

SEBASTIEN – Check around town. See if anyone has received news of a vessel
crashing. Maybe we can catch a lead to finding out if my dear sister is still alive.

ANTONIO – What is her name?

SEBASTIEN – Viola.

ANTONIO gathers up the empty plates and clears away the bed table. He fixes
Sebastien’s pillow.

ANTONIO – I will certainly ask. If I hear any news at all I shall report back and
notify you immediately.

SEBASTIEN – Thank you.

ANTONIO – Of course sir. Now please you must rest.

ANTONIO exits off stage. SEBASTIEN slumps back into the bed. Lights slowly FADE
TO BLACK.

(by Brianna Larivey)

The love of the game

Funky Town was a small little village in London just along the north bank of the Thames River. Funky town was such a small town that when there was new news everybody knew that news within a matter of seconds. In this town there was a family, a very large family. Not in size, but in numbers. There was Jack, Jill, Jennifer, Joe, Jackie, Janice and Leonard and Donna. This was the “the family” of the town. They had it all fame, money, & happiness. It was all perfect and dandy until it came time to pick the teams for town baseball game every year. Now this is not just some small silly baseball game that one would play on a hot summers day. The winner of the baseball game this year would win $ 5,000 and everybody in the family would get an ipad! The Janicker Family really wanted to win this year and usually wins every year except this year they had new arrivals this winter, the Packer family. The Packer family was always pleasant and friendly to the Janicker’s and their children, but they had taken the spotlight away from the Janicker’s since their arrival. The Packer’s had Peter, Paul, Paulina, Prince, Prudence, Paris & Parker and Anne. Behind these two families lied a dark secret and some mischief behind their ‘ eyes. The two oldest of the families, Jill and Paul were archenemies. Always competing in school in sports and in popularity. Jennifer and Paulina were the second oldest in the family and they were actually really close friends and so were the younger siblings. In school they were really close friends but when it came time for that baseball game they never really spoke to each other due to the fact that they needed to get their head in the game.

One day after an intense game of kickball at school the little ones came up with a plan. Jackie came up with the plan when she was eating lunch in the cafeteria and saw Jill and Paul glaring at each other as they walked around the school gathering appreciation for next weeks school election; they were both running for president. So after Jackie had a light bulb she gathered everybody around and told them the plan. The little ones were going to try and get Jill and Paul to fall in love. Everybody knew that they liked each other, they would just bickering back and forth because they were just alike. So after school they all agreed that Joe would write the letter from Paul and give it to Jill, and then Paulina would write the letter from Jill and give it to Paul.

After the kickball game Paulina and Joe gathered at the picnic table and started to brainstorm as to what might be said in these “love letters”. Paulina started off with, “ Dear Sweet Love, for I have always known that you were the one for me. Your grace is like the wind blowing on a calm summer’s day. Your words and like music to my ears. Meet me by the sweet lilac tree at noon in two days. Yours truly-Paul.” Joe started off with, “My One and Only, the one who I admire, respect and dream to be mine one day. That smile is like a thousand diamonds all in a row shining on a summers day. Yours forever-Jill”. Giggling all the way home, excited to start the plan , Paulina put her letter in Paul’s mailbox and Joe put Jill’s letter in her mailbox.

It was two days later and it was the day of the baseball game and the little ones were all excited to see what would happen after the baseball game because of their silly plan. As the two teams lined up they both glared at the other team pretending that they are enemies and determined to beat each other to win that $5000 and that ipad everybody was longing for. The families could sense an extra amount of tension between the two older ones. The younger kids were so confused as to why this was.

The batting began and the came ended up favoring with the Janicker’s due to Donna’s two home runs! The Janicker’s were delighted to find out they have just one all that money and everyone had an ipad to play with. After the game the little ones gathered in the tree fort so they could see the lilac tree to see if the Jill and Paul would meet each other. They waited, and waited and waited, until finally Jill walks up and is standing there blushin, excited and happy, and then they see Paul running toward Jill in excitement and everyone had a blank face, when Paul ran up to Jill and gave her a kiss. Jill was explaining to Paul how nice of him to write that letter and he replied with the same, and they both denied writing any letters. They were so confused as to who wrote the letters. They carefully looked at the letters and realized that they handwriting was not at its best and figured the little ones had planned this not knowing that Jill and Paul were madly in love with each other, previous to the letters. Jill and Paul were proud of them for keeping this a secret but did not want their parent to find out about their relationship.

The little ones finally came down in the tree from amazement and were so glad that their plan had worked. Yelling “we did it, we did it”. Paul and Jill stood there looking at each other wondering what they were talking about, and instantly stepped away from each other acting like they didn’t know what they were talking about. “I know” said Paulina and high fived Joe for the great work in getting these two together. We are not together said, Jill. And be before any of the others could make it back Peter, the tattletale of the family ran back to his parents to announce that Jill and Paul were together and that they kissed. Furious, at this news the parents Leonard and Donna had demanded that no relationship with the Packer’s will be happening between Jill and Paul!

When Jill arrived home with the little’s ones they saw a moving van out front of their house, and were confused as to what was happening. When they opened the front door their stood Donna and Leonard waiting to break the news. “We are moving.” Gasps from everyone. Jill screamed saying “you can’t do this” and the children were so upset at this news. They wanted to stay at least till the end of school but the parents would not allow this. They wanted Jill and their other children to focus on school and not on the Packer family. The parents told Jill they knew about her relationship with Paul, and the little ones explained to them that they planned all this out and the letters they wrote were a joke. The Janicker’s were very strict and would have none of this nonsense. Donna and Leonard told the kids to get into the moving van. Slowly they all piled in , as Jill looked out the back window she saw Paul running down the drive-way in such confusion as to where and when his love would be back.

Romeo and Julie: by Eric Richardson

Part 1: The meeting

omeo was the most andsome man in all of America. All of the women loved him. He had long golden blonde hair, with eyes so beautiful, that just staring at them forced you to marvel at it;s wonder. Romeo was a college student at Stanford, who has been single all of his life. He never had any serious relationships, and he wasnt looking foward to any in the near future. Romeo felt that everygirl he came across was not even in is league. During the college banquet Romeo was the only guy there without a date. In his eyes he was to perfect for all the Stanford women. All of a sudden the crowd turned their attention towards the entrance, watching this angelic figure grace them with her presence. Everyone was starting to yell her name, Julia, Julia, Julia. She was the most beautiful woman in the college. Just like Romeo, Julia felt that she was to good to settle for any old guy at Stanford. She wanted someone who was equally as beautiful and graceful as she was. Romeo instantly fell in love with this woman. Julia turned to Romeo with his gleaming eyes, and long blonde hair, and immediately had a dislike towards him. Julia whispered to herself how nobody is ever allowed to look at angelic and graceful as she does. Romeo went over to talk to her, but she proceeded to throw her drink at him. Romeo was confused as he left the pary in embarrasment.

Part2:

Shakespeare High School

Shakespeare High School is a good place to go to school. You make a lot of friends there. Sometimes you meet people and you want to be more than friends. This was the case with a senior boy names Romeo, and a junior girl named Juliet. As soon as Romeo laid eyes on Juliet, he knew that she was the girl for him, and he thought she was extremely gorgeous. Juliet was oblivious to guys though, guys would drool over her and she wouldn't notice. Every guy wanted to be with her. She didn't care much, she concentrated mostly on school work, and her friends. One of them being her best friend, Beatrice. Juliet never talked to Romeo before, she knew who he was, but never had a conversation with him. She saw him around school, usually with his best friend Benedick. They were the show offs, being the biggest flirts of all, messing with every girls mind. They were the kind of guys Juliet would roll her eyes at as they walked by making dumb remarks.

One day in lunch, Romeo decided to make his move. He saw Juliet sitting in the corner, he walked over and sat down. She didn't know how to react.

“What are you doing?” Juliet asked him,

“Mind if I sit with you today?” Romeo answered.

“Sure? I guess.” Juliet replied.

They talked the whole lunch period, and Juliet realized he wasn't the hot-dog she thought he was. To her, he actually had a great personality and he was great to talk to. Before Romeo left he got Juliet's number and texted her the next day. They decided to sit together once again, learning a lot more about each other. Romeo asked Juliet if she wanted to go to the movies that weekend with him. She said yes, but if she went she would have to bring her friend Beatrice. Romeo thought that was perfect because he could bring his friend Benedick.

“Is that the kid your always around?” Juliet asked him.

“Yeah, he's my best friend.” Romeo answered.

“Well, I don't think that will work too good, Beatrice isn't a big fan of him.” Said Juliet.

“We'll make it work.” Said Romeo, smiling with excitement.

They proceeded with that exact plan that weekend, and everything went just like Juliet had said. Beatrice and Benedick barely talked. When they did it was just making fun of each other, or talking about how much they both didn't want to be there. When they were in the movie they wouldn't even look at each other, and the whole car ride there they were just texting other people and not talking to each other. It was extremely awkward. But not for Romeo and Juliet. They had fun, just like they had planned. The next night Beatrice was sleeping at Juliet's house and they had a long talk about it all.

“How could you like someone like him? Those are the kind of guys we laughed at.” Beatrice asked Juliet.

She watched her sit there texting Romeo, not even listening to her question.

“I don't know there's just something about him. I really, really like him.” Juliet answered.

That night they kept talking about it all. Beatrice admitted something to Juliet that she had never expected. She told her that she was actually crazy about Benedick. He annoyed her to the extreme, but there was some kind of feeling inside her for him. The way he walked, talked, and acted annoyed her. But she didn't want him to know the real well she felt. The next time they all hung out together she acted the same way she did before, annoyed. Like she wanted nothing to do with him. He did the same in return.

It didn't take long for Romeo and Juliet to fall in love. It happened almost instantly and no one could come between them. They were crazy about each other and it was just like people seen in the movies.

It took Beatrice and Benedick a little longer to get to that point. It took months of anonymous notes in Beatrice's locker, and many many movie dates of fighting and bickering for them to find out their true feelings for each other.

They still annoy each other ninety percent of the time, but still manage to stay together.

They all lived happily ever after, even after high school.

by Mike Zeis

Life After much Ado

The year is 2010 with two young cousins who are abnormally large house of . They have been recently married to two soldiers, Clyde and Benny. The younger one at the age of twenty one and more soft spoken is named Heidi who is married to Clyde. While her cousin at the age of 23 and more outspoken has married Benny.

Betty and Heidi have grown up together, because of the passing of Heidi’s father. These two have grown up so close that instead of cousins they are like sister they truly tell the other everything if the other does not know it already.

The two cousins Heidi and Betty are sitting in the living room talking about some gossip that they have heard about their friends.

“Wow can you believe that Elizabeth is dating strange guy Don John!” Says Heidi Surprisingly.

“He is a conniving little bastard. Remember everything he tried to break up you and Clyde! I think he wants to get that skirt of yours!” says Betty with laughing

“Oh my god Betty you’re so messed up! Why didn’t you ever go out with Don Pedro?”

“I don’t know he wasn’t really what I wanted I just don’t think I was what he really wanted either, but girl have you seen his booty! Yummm!”

“Wow girl you have gone koko for that cocoa” say Heidi laughing.

“Oh shut up don’t act like he isn’t Denzel or anything!” says Betty with wide eyes

Still laughing Heidi starts to feel sick, noticing her cousin doesn’t feel right, Betty says

“cuz are you okay?” “Yeah” says Heidi smiling, “its just….”

“Just what?” responds Betty, “Well….” “Come on I don’t have all day!” says Betty trying to get the news out of her cousin. “Well….. I’m, well I think I’m…… pregnant……” says Heidi unsure of herself.

“OH MY GOD!” yells Betty… “Really!?!” asks Betty happily.

“Yeah, I have a dr. appointment today at 2, will you go with me!?” asks Heidi to her cousin.

“Of course I will, aren’t you going to tell Clyde?”

“Not yet I wanna wait to see if its true or not.”

“Yeah good idea… Hear that…..Shh… it’s our hubbies!” laughing “crazy to say!”

The two girls are just as giggly as two young school girls trying to hide what they were just talking about so no one could hear, as their husbands are walking in, Benny and Clyde.

Benny is of course the older of the two soldiers at the age of 25 while Clyde is the younger at the age of 22. Benny is much like Betty in that he is strong minded and wants everything his way. While Clyde is a passive man that is a lover instead of a fighter. These two soldiers have just been married and just came back from hunting.

“Hunny you should of seen the big game I got! You would be amazed!” said Benny smiling and in a cocky tone.

“Benny if I wanted to see the game you got I would of gone which by the smile on Clyde’s face I can tell you didn’t get anything” Responded with a cunning grin on her face.

“Don’t bring me into this I’m an innocent by standard.” Says Clyde trying to stay out of it but still laughing.

“Oh shut up! All of you and wifey your man is hungry!” says Benny trying to get Betty to make him some food.

“What! Oh hell no! wow “go make me a sandwich I’m hungry baby?” whiny whiny that’s all you are doing. And for one if you ever say that to me again I will more than likely respond with that sounds great go make mw on darling because we all know here that I wear the pants and you are wearing the skirt!” says Betty more cunning than ever.

Everyone starts laughing at Betty’s cunning comment and Benny’s lack of response and his face that turns red. Benny storms to the bedroom throwing a fit like always.

“I’m telling you I married a 5 year old.” Says Betty getting up and about to go check on her husband. Talking to Heidi Betty says “I will be ready about 1:40 to go with you.”

Betty walks out of the room leaving Clyde and Heidi to talk. Clyde stands up and goes near is nearly bride hugging her oh so gently into his arms showing her that he cares more about her than life its self. He kisses her on her forehead and tells her that he loves. She doesn’t respond but Clyde knows that she does. She is taking in the moment before things get hectic or the crazy life they know that will come. She just wishes she could stand still and be in this moment forever.

“What are you and your cousin talking about doing today at 2ish?” asks Clyde

Picking up her head off of his chests she says “ohh just going to meet up with our friend Annie I heard she is kinda into Don Pedro so we are thinking about trying to set them up.” She says everything in one breath hoping that Clyde wont suspect anything.

“alright sounds good make sure you tell him about you little plan missy!”

As they both start laughing they stop hugging and go for a walk outside

Heidi is rushing around looking for Betty to go to the doctors with her. She is nowhere to be found. “If she does not come I’m going to flip!” “BEETTTTYYYY!!!! GET YOUR BOOTY DOWN HERE!” Yells Heidi

Heidi comes down saying “goodness calm down before you have a heart attack”

“We have to go I’m just so anxious you know.”

There was a long wait at the doctors office for Heidi, where she sat in anticipation to find out the news. Betty trying to be the good cousin she tries and calms her down but nothing seems to be working. The doctor comes in the room where the two girls are waiting, the doctor looks at Heidi and says “Well I have good news!” smiling she blurts out “you are most defiantly………. Pregnant!” Betty jumps up to hug her cousin, because she doesn’t know what to do next. Betty and Heidi leave the doctors office in silence. Betty driving her white and pink mustang feels she must break the silence between the two.

“Why don’t you as Clyde take you to dinner tonight or something and than you can break the news?”

“I don’t know I’m scared because he really wants to go back overseas.” Says Heidi unsure about everything

“You have to tell him you can not just wait till u start to show.”

“Yeah I know, I probably will try and tell him tonight over dinner.” Says Heidi looking out the window thinking how she is going to tell him.

Later that afternoon Heidi asks if Clyde would be so willing to go to dinner with her to the Olive Garden. They end up going around 7:30 and are served. The smell is making Heidi feel sick. Heidi says nothing gets up in hurry and runs to the bathroom.

Clyde left at the table in wonder as the waitress comes back

“Wife not feeling so well?”

“I guess not” says Clyde with a puzzled look on his face

“Yeah I went through the same thing when I was pregnant getting up every little smell it was the worst thing ever! I mean it goes away after awhile but yeah not so fun, well anything else I can get for you?”

“Wait hat, my wife is not pregnant?” Clyde says with an even more puzzled look on his face

“Ohhh well I mean,….. I’m so sorry I will bring out breadsticks.” Says the waitress trying to leave quickly.

Heidi returns to the table where she sees Clyde with a most confusing look on his. With Heidi that he found out and might be angry if she doesn’t tell him, and just thinking about everything that happened with that one bastard John! Blurts out “I was gunna tell you right now I mean it is defiantly yours and I’m sorry I waited and I just found out and I didn’t mean to my cousin it just I didn’t want to tell you if it wasn’t sure and I know you want to go over seas and…..” Clyde stops Heidi from talking.

“Wait what? The waitress just said…. And you are,……” Clyde jumps up and kiss his wife “I’m just so happy! And your right you should of but I understand!” Clyde picks up his wife spins her around and kisses her one more time. In the heat of the moment he stands up on the chair and shots the whole restaurant “IM GOING TO BE A DAD!!!!!” everyone claps and all of a sudden Heidi turns around to her father, cousin and Benny coming out smiling and clapping.

“Oh my god, you guys didn’t tell me you were coming what is this?” Heidi says hugging her father with a smile.

“I told them and we all wanted to share in this moment with you two” Betty responds smiling.

The family pulls another table together and they all sit down and celebrate with wine, soup salad and breadsticks.

-Jen Harner

A Masquerade Fit For Love

A Masquerade Fit for Love

It was a beautiful ceremony on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Beatrice was a picture perfect bride and Benedick was stunning in his uniform as always. Everyone had arrived at the reception, Hero and her love Claudio, Don Pedro, Hero’s father Leonato, and the rest of the family. Even Dogberry and Verges were able to attend.

The reception began with music and dancing. At the door, masks were handed out to put a playful twist on the event. Everyone knew of the various forms of deception that took place shortly before Beatrice and Benedick realized how perfect they were for each other. It was Beatrice’s plan to hand out the masks. Benedick disagreed with the idea, but after one of their witty spats, Beatrice won the argument and the masks were handed out.

The masquerade fun moved into the night. Beatrice was giggling with Hero by the fountain of Cupid. The fountain was old; made of marble and had been a common meeting spot for Beatrice and Hero. It was here the two girls would discuss their daily problems, and they would discuss their hopes and dreams. During many of these meetings, Beatrice wanted to confide in Hero her secret crush she had on Benedick, but she was nervous to admit it out loud. But all that has changed. Beatrice is now married to the man she had been dreaming about for years.

While enjoying another conversation with Hero, Beatrice was approached by a masked character. When this individual began to talk it was obvious that the person was male. His deep voice could not fool anyone to believe he was a woman. This masked character began telling Beatrice a story of a land far away. The story told of a king and queen that had a beautiful daughter. Beauty that had never been seen before, not even the gods posses that kind of beauty.

Beatrice & Hero are confused. They don’t understand why they are being told this story. So the character continues his story. He goes on to tell of when the princess was a young girl, a party from across the wilderness came to visit the king and queen. The party had evil intentions to overthrow the kingdom. But when the leader of the party set his eyes on the beautiful princess, he spoke through his heart. The party told the king and queen that if they betroth their beautiful daughter to the leader of the party, all of their kingdom would be spared and the king and queen would remain on the throne. The king thought quickly. He decided to agree to the proposition, but he knew in his heart that he would keep his daughter safe from the heathens that stood before him. The party was satisfied with the agreement and left back out to the wilderness promising to return in five years when the marriage of the princess and party leader would take place.

Long after the party had departed, the king devised a plan to send his beautiful daughter far away to live with her uncle. He sent her so far away that finding her would be impossible for the intimidating party. The king feared what would become of his kingdom if it was ever found out that he sent his daughter into hiding. His only other option was when five years had passed and the party returned, he would have to lie and say his beautiful daughter died in a horrific accident two years after she was betrothed.

Beatrice again pressed the character to explain to her why he would be telling her and Hero this odd story. She didn’t think it was an appropriate tale to be told at her wedding reception. It was such a sad story it had no place at a joyous event. The character begged that if he only had a few more moments, the reason would become clear. He pleaded that this story was quite appropriate for such event. Beatrice nodded and the character continued.

The five years had almost come to an end. The king feared what was to happen soon. He knew he had to warn his daughter in some way. He didn’t know if the party leader had heard about the fictitious story about his beautiful daughter or if the leader had found out the king had put her into hiding. The king set out to visit his daughter who had grown into a beautiful woman. After weeks of travel, the king finally arrived at the residence where his daughter had been staying. Upon arrival, the streets of the small town were empty, but in the distance he could hear a great celebration taking place at the largest house in the town. As the king approached where the sounds of celebrations were coming from it was obvious that the town was celebrating a union.

The king was passed by a young boy who was returning to the celebration after a brief break from the crowds and music. The king asked the young boy who the union was between. The young boy wasn’t sure of the names but he was able to describe the most beautiful woman he had ever seen and a nobleman from a town not too far away. The young boy told the king that he was welcome at the celebration. The uncle of the woman and invited everyone no matter who they were or where they were from.

Upon arrival, the king was handed a mask to wear throughout the celebration. Though confused, the king obliged and wore the mask. He walked among the guests trying to figure out who the newly united were. Then when walking past an old marble fountain he heard a voice he would never forget. It was the harmonious voice of his daughter he hadn’t seen in almost five years. He turned around and saw two young masked girls talking and giggling together. He approached them and began to speak. He began to tell his story.

Beatrice was frozen in disbelief. She removed her mask and that of the masked character. She shrilled and threw her arms around her father’s neck. Tears of joy rolled down her cheeks. She hadn’t seen her father in almost five years. She explained to her father her marriage to Benedick and how she had loved him for a very long time before they admitted their affection. The king asked to meet this very lucky man who had won his daughter’s heart. The king stayed at the fountain when Beatrice went to fetch Benedick. When she returned the King was shocked in disbelief. Beatrice’s beloved was none other than the leader of the party!

Benedick smiled and shook the King’s hand. Benedick explained to the King that he heard about how Beatrice was sent away to avoid the betrothal. And he further explained that he never had evil intentions for Beatrice. I had fallen in love with her upon first sight. He wanted nothing more than to make Beatrice his wife and treat her as a goddess. He was so affected by her beauty at a young age he fell deeply in love with her, but he didn’t want to steal her remaining days of adolescence. Hence, wanting to wait five years before their marriage, but he heard about her move. He sought out to find her to be near her. Over the years, Beatrice and Benedick socialized and Beatrice fell in love with him. The couple had never been more happy nor the King.

The King had thought about his actions: sending his daughter away, trying to fool Benedick, etc. and he could not be upset. He realized that what had become of his beloved daughter’s life was destiny. Nothing he could have done would have prevented the two lovers from their union. The celebration continued into the night. Many of the masks had come off, and the joy of the night could be felt in the air. The destined lovers had each other and the beautiful daughter had her father back.

by Vanessa Goodman

The Stairwell

Carol Andrews couldn’t believe the year had finally come that she wasn’t considered a little kid anymore; she was finally entering middle school. Her sister, Joan just a year older was always harassing her and making fun of her for being still with the babies in elementary school. It was September 5th the morning of the first day of school that Carol just couldn’t figure out what outfit to wear. Finally she got it! Her jean skirt with her white blouse she had just bought the weekend before. Off to school Carol went. She lived only a few blocks away from the middle school so she and Joan walked together, not saying one word to one another due to Carol still not being good enough in Joan’s eyes. They entered the front doors and walked up the stairs in the front foyer of the school when it all happened. Carol not paying attention, accidently bumps into a boy walking down the stairs. Carol’s books go flying out of her hands all over the stairs. She quickly bends over and tries to pick up the books before anyone else notices and she becomes even more embarrassed than she already was. The boy that Carol bumped into begins to help her pick up her belongings. He hands her the books and Carol out of complete shock just stares at him without even being polite and saying thank you. She is in complete awe at this point by the charming young boy. Carol turns to her sister and says, “I’m going to marry that boy Joan”. Joan continues laughing at Carol ten times harder than she already was. “Ok Carol you think that” says Joan. Carol only being twelve years old was convinced that was the boy for her and the love of her life. Just days later they see each other again in the court yard after school.
The young boy comes up to Carol.
“My name is Lee figured we should probably introduce ourselves”, says Lee.
“I’m Carol”, says Carol.
“Well it’s good to meet you hopefully I’ll see you around”, Lee says.
“Okay. Bye see you later”, says Carol (while blushing).
It was only a matter of weeks that Carol and Lee were sitting together during lunch and walking home from school with one another. They started dating during the winter months and spent the afternoons after school playing in the neighborhood together.
Five years later, Lee and Carol still together, neither has laid hands on another boy or girl they are ready to take it to the next step. Carol only being seventeen when the legal marriage age in New York State was eighteen and Lee’s mom against the two of them getting married at such a young age, the two had to plan out something big. Lee borrowed money from his manager and off to North Carolina the two young but in love individuals went. By the time they got almost to North Carolina, Lee’s mom was begging for them to come home and get married in New York but it was too late. Carol and Lee got married down in North Carolina and drove back home the following day. Just like Carol said from day one on the stairwell, it was love at first sight.
Fifty three years later, Carol and Lee have four charming sons together and are still happily married to another living just outside Orlando, Florida.

Believe

(A Sonnet for The Tempest; This is Miranda speaking to Prospero, describing her love for Ferdinand)

Must I giv’st thee mine own true reason,
For this love that has bound mine own young heart
Around his, thou believe to be such treason?
Mine own eyes can witness the loving part.

This grown man once struck mine own eyes with fear;
Fear that, of love, lust, of natural being.
His love together, with mine own, is pure;
So pure, nature allows thee to be seeing.

With thine own flesh coming to approach thee,
Come forth, witness the love I have to share.
He is true to me as thou shall soon see,
Let mine own love be no less for you to bear.

I will show thee, mine love for him is true,
Nature allowed me to prove this to you.

Fire

How do you get to me, and know me so well?
I've told you once and I've told you twice.
My heart burns like the deepest depth of hell.
It's sizzling to the touch, almost as hot as ice.
You make me wonder by the way you move.
You are far more striking than anyone I've seen.
Three simple words are what it will take to prove.
The sun doesn't compare, and the moon lacks sheen,
when compared to you.
After the sun sets and the night grows dark,
it pains me to say goodbye, adieu, adieu.
If you look inside at my heart, you'll see you left a long-lasting mark.
You make me feel like my soul is on fire,
hopefully you're not being a liar.

by Jessica Stuart

untitled

Five people, two couples, one lonely male. This story takes place in Verona, Italy
where these four people have been experiencing strange occurrences at night. The
couples and the single individual do not know one another, but one instance creates an
invisible bond between them all. Each of them believes that they are the only ones
experiencing this phenomenon, but they are not alone.

What's happening to these five people may seem strange and unrealistic, but it's
very real. Perhaps you have heard of Romeo and Juliet? They are two Shakespearean
couples that fell in love, however circumstances kept them apart, and they ended up dead.
The five people all take these "visits" from Romeo and Juliet differently; however
believe that they are delivering some kind of message.

Couple #1
When I woke up in the morning I figured that I had too much wine, but then Tony
told me about this crazy dream that he had about Romeo and Juliet visiting him in the
middle of the night. I knew something strange was going on, because I happened to have
the same dream as well. It took me a bit to admit to Tony that I also had a dream about
Romeo and Juliet because I was afraid that he would just think I'm trying to be dramatic.
When I did, he figured it was just a coincidence and that we both must have seen
something on television that triggered the thought of the story.

We decided to shake it off. The following night, and the night after that, the same
things were happening. We knew this wasn't a coincidence, and the things that were
happening were actually happening. Why the hell were Romeo and Juliet showing up in
our dreams? I convinced Tony that we had to stay up and see what was happening at
night.

Around 3:30AM, after hours of watching re-runs of The Golden Girls and The
Crosby Show, we decided it was time to go to bed and stop being silly. After a few
minutes of lying down, we heard some ruckus in the room. We flipped the lights back on
and we were amazed to see two people standing in old English clothing, staring at us. The
four of us just looked at one another for a few moments. Weren't these things just made
up by some playwright? But how does anyone know if William Shakespeare really pulled
his characters out of nowhere…maybe they were based on real, legitimate people? I
finally spoke out. "Hello?" I asked, Juliet answered back "Hello, Maria." How in the
world did this girl know my name? "What exactly are you doing here?" I asked, "We're
hear to tell you something," Juliet said. The conversation went on, and we learned more
and more about why these two characters were visiting us.

Tony and I do not have the best relationship. We pick fights with each other a lot,
and we know how to press each other's buttons. Romeo and Juliet are magnets to love,
and where love is they follow. Especially in their hometown, they can feel it. They told
us that they know our love is strong, and that we should not chance losing one another to
petty fights. They explained how much they were in love, and they would be upset if they
saw a love so strong fall apart and have two people not be together. We took this strange
occurrence as some type of a blessing, and an eye opener. We decided that we must
cherish every moment together, and do not do anything that would risk us falling apart.
Tony and I are very much in love, and having this happen to us made our love stronger.

Couple #2

I woke up just before the sun was about to rise; I knew I had to get home before
my parents noticed that I was gone. I'm twenty-two, and I shouldn't have to worry about
sneaking around and getting caught by my parents, but this was a bit different. I'm not
supposed to be with Joseph, my parents hate him. But, they've never met him or ever
given him the chance. There is absolutely nothing wrong with him, he's just not from
around the area and my parents are afraid that I'm going to run off with him and never
come back. I kissed him goodbye, and headed home. I snuck in the house just before
everyone started to wake up. This whole situation is mentally exhausting, and I wish
there was something to make this easier. Night after night, the same routine went on. I
would sneak off and spend time with him at night; since that was the only time I could
see him with my busy work schedule during the day.

One morning, when I was heading back to my house, something very weird
happened. I got in my car and felt like there was something else in my car, perhaps in my
back seat. I grabbed a hold of the pepper spray I kept handy on my keychain, and flipped
on the car lights. In the backseat was sitting a girl, she was in ridiculous Elizabethan
England clothes. She was just sitting there, looking at me. I was confused. She almost
didn't look real; she looked like she seriously just jumped out of a textbook. I looked at
her closer, and I had memories of 9th grade and how we read a play and she looked like
the pictures from the book. She finally said hello to me, and I asked her what she was
doing, who she was, and told her I was going to call the police. I was nervous, confused,
a little entertained by her clothing, but overall scared for my life. "You can solve the
problem that you're having if you build up the courage to stand up for what you believe
in," the girl in my back seat said. Who is she to tell me inspirational quotes? "Who are
you, and why are you in my car?" I asked. She shared with me that she's the spirit of
Juliet, and it all came back to me. Romeo and Juliet, that couple from the old play who
wanted to be together but their families didn't get along and she was forbidden to be with
Romeo. I didn't know what to believe. It was early and I was still very tired. She
refreshed me on her story, and it was ridiculous how much it related to my life. She told
me that I couldn't sneak around and lie to my parents anymore, and that I should be
upfront with them and tells them what I want to do with my life. She explained that I'm
older than she was, and that I have somewhat of an upper hand because I could be
independent, but losing my family is something that scared me.

I wasn't sure what to believe when Juliet opened my car door, and walked away. I
felt like I was crazy, but the advice she gave me seemed helpful, so I decided that I was
going to take it as a lesson. I wanted to listen to her guidance and actually do what makes
me happy. He made me happy, and I know if my family would stop being so self-
centered and accepted him, everyone would be happy.

Joseph called me later that day. He said that he had something to tell me, and it
may seem absolutely absurd, but he thought it was something we had to talk about. He
told me about how he woke up to a random guy standing in his room, claiming he was
Romeo from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet play. I was shocked, but let him continue
with what he was saying. He told me that Romeo told him that he should take action and
do whatever he had to do in order to make my parents accept him and allow me to be
with him. He explained to Joseph his situation, and how Romeo and Juliet kept quiet
about their love. Their families were enemies, but he figured if they had tried to work out
some kind of deal, their story wouldn't have ended in a tragedy. I then told Joseph my
story, and he was amazed. We didn't know if we should believe what happened, but we
knew the advice we received was good, and that we should rethink our situation.
We still haven't discussed anything with my parents, but we are planning on
doing so very soon. Whether these visits were real, or just figments of our imagination,
we're not going to allow ourselves to be held back any longer.

The Bachelor

I've been single forever, and I don't believe that I'll ever find a significant other.
Every relationship I'm in fails, and I'm miserable. I can't find love anywhere, and my
family is becoming frustrated with me because I'm getting older and I'm not starting a
family.

I read a lot of romances, and I live vicariously through them. I imagine being in
love with my soul mate, and fighting for her safety. It may seem absurd, but I dream of
love by the books. This could be one of the reasons I'm not successful with women,
because I expect too much out of them and too much out of our relationship.

So one night I had a dream, at least I think it was a dream. One of my favorite
love stories is Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare. I enjoy the story because they die for
what they believed in, and what they believed in was love. In my dream, Romeo and
Juliet appeared and warned me to step away from the ideas of love I have, and that I
should just trust that someday, everything would work out for me. I haven't spoken out
about this because I don't want people to think I'm crazy, but whether it was a dream or
not, I took that as a symbol of hope.

by Jessica Stuart

Fate's Game

Romeo – Raphael (name means God has healed)
Juliet – Jahzara (blessed princess)
Rosaline – Roxanne (dawn)
Paris – Patrick (noble one)
Mercutio – Miguel (who is like God)

Fate’s Game Part 1

“He shoots! He scores!” the announcer exclaims as Raphael’s teammates lift him off the ground.
The crowd leaps to its feet in a wave of excitement – Roxanne caught in the midst of it all with a smile as beautiful as the morning sun. Raphael catches her eye and motions for her to come to him as she races to his outstretched arms. The hockey player pulls her closer and kisses her passionately, causing an even greater uproar of delight.

As he lets her go, Miguel pats him on the back and reminds him about the celebration party.

“Yeah, don’t worry, man. We’ll be there,” Raphael says.

“We wouldn’t miss it. Good job out there, Miguel,” Roxanne smiles.

“Thanks. See you guys later.” Miguel and the team walk out of the arena with the crowd at their feet, but Roxanne and Raphael linger to enjoy the moment. Their eyes lock on each other, but suddenly, Roxanne’s smile fades into a frown as she contemplates the future – the one she longs for with Raphael. Scanning what is left of the crowd, Roxanne realizes that she is not the only young woman to cross Raphael’s for the past several years that he has been winning games for his team.

“Sweetie, what’s wrong? We won!”

“Tired. Maybe I’ve had too much excitement for one day,” she lies smoothly, taking his hand and leading him out of the arena.


Roxanne and Raphael arrive in their limousine at the restaurant around seven o’clock that night – both looking as stunning as celebrities posing for pictures on the red carpet.

“Raphael,” Miguel calls. “Over here...Wow, Roxanne, you look beautiful.”

“Thanks,” Roxanne blushes.

“Hey, she’s taken,” Raphael laughs.

“Just make sure you keep her close,” Miguel jokes back.


As the night proceeds, speeches are made and dinner is served. Around ten o’clock, the tables are cleared away for slow dancing. Raphael stands up and gently holds his girlfriend’s hand, motioning for her to dance with him. She does so with ease, but feels a thought nudging her in the back of her brain – the worry about how long they really will stay together. When Raphael leans down for a quick kiss, her guilt becomes greater and she pushes the idea as far away as possible.

Roxanne and Raphael dance for what seems a lifetime, but finally they rest and return to their table. Raphael sits down in the seat facing the door and looks up just in time to see a beautiful woman walk in alone with her head down. Her wavy brunette hair bounces lightly as she gracefully makes her way into the crowd. Raphael tries to find her again, but Roxanne pulls him out of his search.

“What are looking for?” she asks, aware of the mild quiver in her voice.

“I...I thought I saw an old friend or something,” he says, hoping he sounded more convincing than he felt.

“Do you want to go see who it was?”

“No, no it’s fine. Maybe we should go. Let me just tell the guys we’re leaving.”

“OK.”

Roxanne grabs her sweater and purse while Raphael wanders, trying to find the mystery woman.

When he finds her sitting alone at a table, he hesitates – not sure if he should talk to her or simply be content that he was able to see her beauty one last time. Within seconds, Raphael finds himself sitting down across from her, acting as if they really are old friends.

“Hey. I’m Raphael. I’m here with my hockey team. We won the game, so now we’re celebrating.”

“Oh, wow. Congratulations,” the mystery woman replies with an accent that Raphael cannot distinguish. “I’m Jahzara. Actually, I’m not from the United States. I’m on vacation with my family. We’re from Russia.”

“Nice. So, how long are you staying?”

“I’m not sure. My father said that he has something to take care of, but he didn’t say how long it would take.”

“Well, while you’re here, we should chill sometime.”

“Chill?”

“Yeah, you know, hang out again. That is, if you want.”

“Oh, of course. I’d like that.”

“Here’s my cell number.”

“Thanks. Well, I think I should go. My parents are probably worried by now. Good night.”

“See you soon.

Raphael slowly walks to the door, completely forgetting Roxanne. She catches up to him and they leave in silence. As they enter the limo, Roxanne turns to him – her eyes glistening as she puts the pieces together.

“So that’s it?” she whispers.

“What? Oh, Roxanne, why are you crying?”

“I saw you. How can you sit there and act as if everything is fine?”

“Roxanne, I’m sorry. I...it’s not what it seems. Really.”

“Raphael, if I didn’t say anything, you wouldn’t have even noticed that I was sitting here.”

“Baby, you know that’s not true. It’s been a long day. That’s all.”

“That’s a lie. Just...tell me the truth, please.”
Raphael hesitates.

“OK, look. I don’t know what just happened, but I felt some strange connection with her. I think...maybe...we should take some time apart for now. You know, just so I can figure out what’s going on. I don’t want to hurt you,” he whispers.

Roxanne finally bursts into the tears that she tried to hold back earlier. When the limo arrives in front of her house, she lets Raphael hug her, but quickly pulls away – leaving him as confused as before.

“So I won the hockey game, but lost my girlfriend in one day? Man,” he shakes his head as the driver pulls off.

Sleep did not come easily that night for either one, but time changes things quickly. Neither saw the twist that fate had in store for them following that day.

Fate’s Game Part 2

As Jahzara steps out of the taxi, she cautiously finds her way to her hotel room – expecting the worst from her parents. She finds her card and opens the door silently. However, her mother and father sit on the couch with the lights on – her father’s face as angry as a bull ready to charge.

“Do you plan on telling us where you’ve been?” he demands.

“I...um...I just needed some air.”

“You needed air? Well, that’s a new one,” her mother replies coldly.

“What did you expect me to do? I’m only nineteen. I don’t want to get married to someone I don’t know. So what if he has money? He can keep it – I don’t want it!”

Jahzara storms off to her room and slams the door. Her bewildered father suddenly gets up from the chair and walks to her door.

Pounding on it, he shouts, “Jahzara! Open this door, immediately!”

“No! Leave me alone!”

“Jahzara, please listen to your father,” her mother pleads.

“Why should I? Nobody ever listens to me,” she sobs.

In all his anger, Jahzara’s father leaves the hotel room, knowing that he has no way of getting her to listen to him for now.

After about a half an hour, Jahzara begins to settle down, but she is still disturbed by the fact that her parents expect her to marry to help her father’s business.

“It’s always about the money,” she complains. “For once, why can’t people get married because they actually love each other?”

She remembers the little piece of paper with a phone number from a handsome stranger.

Quickly, she reaches for her purse and dials the number. Patiently, she counts the rings until a
raspy voice answers.

“Is this Raphael?”

“Yeah. You are...?”

“Jahzara. We met a few hours ago.”

“Oh, hi. What’s up?”

“My father’s blood pressure,” she tries to joke.

He catches the tone in her voice and asks, “What’s wrong?”

“Well, when I said my father had business to tend to, it meant finding me a husband to increase his profits. It’s completely unfair! All I keep hearing is how wonderful Patrick is – how he’s really going to help the business. My parents act as if he’s the son they wished they had. Well, then, why don’t they just adopt him? I don’t want to marry this man. I mean, I haven’t even met him yet!”

She feels her eyes welling with tears again, but tries to hold them back.

“You’re getting married? Man, I’m messing everything up.”

“What? No, you’re not messing this up. I...I’m sorry. I needed to talk to someone. I didn’t mean for you to feel bad about this.”

“No, that’s not what I meant either. I broke up with my girlfriend tonight because I couldn’t stop thinking about you. Well, I don’t know if we really broke up, but we’re taking some time apart. I mean, I know I just met you, but I like you. And now I find out that you’re as good as taken.”

“Well, not yet. Can I meet you tomorrow?” she whispers hopefully.

“Yeah, sure. Where are you staying? I can pick you up and take you sight-seeing.”
Jahzara gives him all the information and soon settles into a peaceful night, longing for the sun to rise unto a brighter day.

Fate’s Game Part 3

The next day, Roxanne wakes up at dawn to the beautiful sunshine. She slowly draws open the curtains to her apartment and contentedly stares at the perfect blue skies. As she pulls out her clothes and heads to the shower, she wonders how Raphael is doing. She also recalls the late phone call from Miguel, who somehow knew that something was wrong. Although she tries to calm down, she finds herself on the verge of tears once again. Roxanne could never be mad at Raphael – she loves him too much – but she is unsure of the friendship they hope to maintain.

That same morning, Raphael looks out his window and drinks in the golden rays as he prepares for his day with Jahzara. First, he hopes that she’ll agree to a stroll in Central Park. Then, he’ll take her to the Empire State Building, and finally the Twin Towers.

While Raphael plans the day, Jahzara focuses on how to leave the hotel room without her parents noticing. She sneaks out of her room to hear the television playing her mother’s favorite show and her father on the phone talking to Patrick about the wedding plans.

She sighs and shakes her head, wondering if her parents will ever bother listening to her. She successfully sneaks into the lobby around nine thirty. She waits for about ten more minutes before Raphael shows up. When he does, she feels her heart beat ferociously in her chest.

Raphael catches her eye and his heart leaps into his throat. Neither can speak for a moment, but
they do not need words. He takes her hand and unsuspectingly leads her into Fate’s game.

“Oh, this weather is perfect!” Jahzara exclaims as Raphael walks her through Central Park. Dogs chase Frisbees and couples sit closely and enjoy the surprisingly warm weather for a late February day.

“Hey, maybe we should go to the World Trade Centers now, instead of later. I can’t wait until you see them. They’re so tall – taller than the Empire State Building. And the inside - breathtaking.”

“It sounds amazing.”

Raphael and Jahzara continue until they make it to a smaller park.

“What do you think?” Raphael asks, pointing to the magnificent skyscrapers.

“Wow, they’re...amazing. I’ve never seen anything like it before,” Jahzara replies, astounded.

As they begin to cross the street, Jahzara pulls Raphael’s arm.

“What’s wrong?” he asks, his voice full of concern.

“My parents. And my...I mean, Patrick. They can’t see me.”

“What should we do?”

“I don’t know. Isn’t there somewhere we could hide for a minute or so?”

“Come on. We can sneak into the parking lot area. They shouldn’t see us.”

They try to move as quickly as possible, but Jahzara is immediately recognized as they approach their destination.

“Jahzara!” her father calls.

“Oh, no!” she moans.

They have no choice but to wait for her parents and her future husband. As they arrive, everyone exchanges nervous and confused glances.

“Who are you?” her father asks in a harsh tone.

“I’m Raphael, sir. Pleased to meet you.”

Raphael extends his hand, but to no avail. The cold, silent stares make him wince as he realizes that this family will not accept his love for their daughter. He begins to worry even more when he sees Patrick walking up to him.

“Why are you with him?” he asks Jahzara.

She glances at Raphael with a distraught expression. Turning back to Patrick she calmly says,

“We’re together. Patrick, I can’t marry you.”

She notices the pain in his eyes and feels guilty, but the sudden anger in her father makes her forget Patrick immediately.

“Father, I can’t. I’m sorry. I’m in love with Raphael. And he loves me, too.”

“If that’s what you choose, then you are no longer my daughter.”

“Father, please.”

As he turns to walk away, several things happen simultaneously. Raphael hears a voice calling him and turns to see Miguel running towards him, screaming for him to get far away from the Twin Towers. Miguel approaches with speed, but cannot pull Raphael away in time. A sudden explosion overtakes the scene. The source? A bomb planted in a car originally meant for the U.N. building. Smoke covers the parking lot, rising into a darkened sky.

While preparing lunch just before twelve thirty, Roxanne turns the news on to see headlines flashing. She stares, unable to believe what she is seeing. She runs to her window and looks out to see gray coloring the once perfect blue sky. As she heads back to the living room, the television announcer declares that six deaths have been determined so far: one police officer and five civilians. The police ask for help identifying the victims.

Roxanne notices that many people begin to gather around the scene, and she follows them. As she approaches, she picks up a cap with the name of Raphael’s team. She hesitates.

“No...” she whispers. “Coincidence. Please, let it be a coincidence.”

Her reassurance deteriorates as she gets closer. She cannot control herself any longer and runs to the scene. She can see two strangers’ bodies near Miguel – the only person she had left to communicate with after the break-up. She closes her eyes and takes a deep breath, saying a small prayer for her friend. Allowing her eyes to wander a little further, Roxanne sees intertwined hands creating the top headline for weeks to come: “A Tale to Tell: Princess Jahzara and her Raphael.”

Kaye Bassarath

The Anniversary

The Anniversary

Claire Montana couldn’t believe that the day had arrived. There was still much to be done before the party could begin. It was already 11 o’clock, and in 3 short hours the guests would be arriving. Everything at the fire hall was in place. The decorations had been hung, and the tables set. As she got into her van, and headed towards the store she began to think about her parents, and how surprised they would be. They had no idea this party was for them, and were under the impression that a birthday party for neighbor Agnes was taking place. Their story was nothing short of a love story, and although she had heard it a million times, she would always remember the way her mother would light up as she told it. Her grandparents had lived down the street from each other on Veronica Ave, and had such a deep dislike, almost hatred for each other. Her parents managed to live on the same street, but never met, until one summer night. It was the night of her mother’s 13^th birthday, and a huge celebration was taking place. Her father, along with his friends Ben, and Marc, heard news of this party at school and decided to crash it. Story goes that her father had been in love with Rose, who was rumored to be attending this party. It didn’t take long for her parents to see each other and it was love at first sight. They knew it would never work, their parents hated each other and such a love was forbidden. They dated in secret for nearly a month before they knew that it was meant to be, and that their feelings would never die. As Claire pulled into the parking lot and got out of the van she stopped and shuttered. This part always upset her, and she always took a moment to thank the good Lord things worked out. Her father had the idea that the two should fake their death, and leave town. So one night, both left farewell notes and just disappeared. Nobody ever found the bodies, yet the cars were found nearly sunken at the bottom of the town gorge. Life was hard for the young couple, but her father had been smart and hid away a large chunk of money in the month before leaving. They never regretted their decision, and were always content to be with one another. As Claire made her way to the bakery she thought about the love that had always surrounded her parents, and how even now, 50 years later, they still adored one another. As she approached the counter she caught the eye of one of the workers. “I’m here to pick up a cake please” she said. “Sure” the woman replied. “Would this be under the name Montana?” she asked. “Yes it would be” Claire replied. As the woman handed over the cake Claire stopped to take a look. It was one of the prettiest cakes she had ever seen. White frosting with blue birds surrounded a soft pink heart. In the center of the cake in big bold letters were the words “Happy 50^th Anniversary Roman and Jules” It was then that Claire knew the party was going to be one nobody would forget.

Jenna Webster