What is she?

Chapter 7 Claira

“We aren’t alone anymore”

Pandi said in a matter of fact tone. Without stopping the reps I was putting in on the current machine, I focused on my hearing. Soft footsteps we’re approaching from the entrance of the building. I could feel that Pandi had come forward in my mind but she remained calm and quiet, seeming to only be curious about the person approaching. Whoever this person was, they didn’t seem to worry Pandi so I tried to focus on my workout. When the weight room door at my back opened, a rush of air entered the room carrying a strong scent of strawberries. As the door closed behind this new person, I finished my last rep and got up from the machine, taking my headphones out of my ears at the same time.

Turning around my eyes meet sparkling blue eyes on a doll-like face surrounded by shoulder length strawberry blonde curls. The young woman standing in front of me seemed to be about 5 ft 5 with a slender build. She had on loose fitting workout clothes but I could tell that while she was slender her body had curves. She smiled shyly at me when she made eye contact, then averted her eyes to scan the room.

“I’m so sorry to interrupt. I didn’t think anyone would be here.” She spoke in a soft quiet voice that without my newly enhanced hearing I doubt I would have caught her words. I smiled back at her and said

“No worries. I am just finishing up my workout so the equipment is all yours.”

Curls bounced around the young woman’s face as she let out a deep sigh. I could see her body visibly relax with the sigh, up to this point she had stood frozen, like a deer about to run for its life. Pandi giggled in my mind but stayed silent. I took this chance to introduce myself.

“I’m Elizabeth Montgomery but everyone calls me Eliza. I’m a first year student.”

Wide blue eyes meet my green ones seeming to be shocked by the information I had just freely given but quickly the shock disappeared and was replaced with excitement. The doll-like face now held a big smile with perfect white teeth. Finally the young woman stepped forward and reached out her hand.

“It’s nice to meet you Eliza. My name is Claira Daniels. I’m also a first year student. I thought I would be the only first year to move on campus early. I’m so thrilled that isn’t the case!”

I met Claira half way and shook her outstretched hand. She beamed up at me and I happily returned her smile.

“I think we have made a friend!” Pandi finally spoke up with a giggle. I couldn’t disagree with Pandi, I also hoped this shy adorable woman would become our friend. Taking back my hand I used it to gesture to all the equipment around the room.

“The room’s all yours…” Did she just flinch? “I have been here for hours and it’s probably time I go find something to eat.” I finished saying as I watched Claira out of the corner of my eye. Her smile had definitely faltered for a second but she seemed to quickly recover. Her small reaction to me moving my hand definitely wasn’t missed by Pandi.

“She definitely flinched like she expected us to hit her. I wonder what has happened to her?” Pandi said with concern.

“Actually, now that you mention food that does sound a lot better than working out.” Claira said shyly now staring at her feet. While Pandi and I were both still concerned about Claira’s reaction to my movement, I decided it was best to ignore it for now. Maybe if I can get closer to her I can find out what has happened to her.

“Claira, would you be interested in joining me for dinner? My mother left a few casseroles in my dorm fridge.” I asked Claira with a smile. She looked up at me and smiled brightly again.

“Really?” She asked excitedly, looking like she might start dancing around any second. I couldn’t help but giggle at her excitement.

“Yes, really! I would love the company.” I answered her. “I’m in dorm D and so far the only one that has moved in.” I told her.

“I’m in dorm A. If it’s okay I’ll stop by my dorm to shower and change before I join you for dinner?” Claira asked.

“Of course that’s okay. I should probably get a quick shower and change out of my work out clothes myself.” I said as I consciously started moving towards the door. Claira followed closely as we made our way out of the building and towards the pathway that led to the dorms. On the walk back we chatted about what we planned to study. Claira is into microbiology and organic farming. Talking about school really seemed to help relax Claira. She was practically skipping while she talked about microbiology. Pandi and I both agreed we adored Claira already and hoped we could build a lasting friendship with her. Reaching Claira’s dorm, I pulled out my phone to check the time. It was a little after 8pm and the sun was setting.

“Do you mind if we meet up around 10?” I asked Claira. Once again she smiled up at me.

“That works perfectly for me.” She answered then gesturing to her hair, she said “These curls take time to tame after I shower.” I giggled at her facial expression which was a mix of happy and fake frustrations. We exchanged cell phone number’s so I could text her my room number. We said our goodbyes for now and Claira headed into her dorm building. Pandi and I waited till she was safely in her building and out of sight. Pandi was overly excited. I promised her we would go for a short run before heading back to our dorm. Making our way from Claira’s dorm we headed past our own to head for the forest. The sun hadn’t completely set yet but the tree’s made the forest significantly darker. Once inside the tree line, I pictured Pandi’s form in my mind and my body shifted into hers. Shaking out the shiny white fur, I gave control over to Pandi.

“I’m finally free” Pandi said with excitement. I reminded her that we couldn’t stay out long since we promised Claira we would meet back at our dorm. Her only answer came out like a purr and then she shot forward simply racing with herself into the depths of the forest.