Haunted by Secrets

Chapter 2

Amy

I woke up actually rested and not in total knots from sleeping on a bench. I got out of my sleeping bag and was completely surrounded by Harry and Maple. I tried to clean myself in a stream close by, luckily no one was deciding to take a walk in the woods this morning. Now that I’m somewhat put together in one of my thrift store dresses. Nothing special, an amethyst purple peasant dress and tunic shoes, but did a flower crown to make myself a little fancy for this party. I debated on wearing one of my farming dresses, but it’s rarely I go to a party. I got it on my way home from the tavern last night and saw it in the window. Ruby was thrilled that the dress got a second life since she had made it herself. I can hear the hussle and bussle of a party being set up at this beautiful country estate that must belong to someone important. I see Pippin setting up the drinks in his tent and I just smiled and waved at him.

“Ready for your big night?” Pippin asked me excitedly. I sat down on the stool in front of his makeshift bar. I like his tavern better.

“Yeah, I think so. I’ll warm up once people show up.” He hands me a bottle of water and I gladly take it. I let him set up as I set up my tip jar and got a sound check. As the afternoon turned into evening, people started showing up.

I warmed up and nerves kicked in. Sure I’ve done it at the tavern, but those are small crowds, this is a good size party. The music from the live band started playing and started the set. People pay attention to me a little, but mostly focus on food and the various drinks Pippin has. Soon I’m distracted by horse hooves in the distance and I perk up to the entrance of the party.

“And now everyone, we welcome the host of our party! Drake Thornheart!” Pippin announces to the crowd and everyone goes crazy! He must be someone important so I just applaud along. A beautiful white Andalusian with a leather halter to help his rider steer him. His rider is easy on the eyes. Wind swept brunette wavy hair, brownish purple eyes, if I had to guess he’s probably close to my age so 20 something. A clean poet shirt with a brown leather vest and dark blue dress pants and riding boots. The band and I take a break to get some food and drinks, and my tip jar is about halfway full. It's not bad for a couple of hours. I relax some, and the host makes his way towards me.

“I’m normally familiar with everyone in this small town, but you’re new. Hi, I’m Drake.” He sticks his hand out, and I shake it, giving him a small smile.

“I’m Amy, and yeah I’m very new around here. I came with Pippin to help with the entertainment.”

“Ah yes, the tavern owner. Very nice fellow, likes to help anyone out.”

“Yeah, he's been great at getting me on my feet.”

“On your feet?” He looked at me confused.

“Yeah of course I have nothing. No house, not much clothes, no anything. What I have is a tent over my head, apparently the town pets, some clothes I've thrifted at Ruby's shop, and Pippin has been helping me by literally singing for my dinner.” He stares at me in shock.

“No family that could help?” still staring at me confused.

“No, not that I'm aware of. My parents either died or disappeared a long time ago. My childhood is all fuzzy memories.” He listens to me very focused.

“I'm so sorry, but uuuhh… this dress is certainly something.” He grabs my sleeve as if it's something disgusting that he found.

“Excuse me!? Ruby made this herself for me to wear tonight. Thank you very much! I just told you I don't have much!”

“Well, I certainly don't have that problem.” Gesturing to the surrounding scenery.

“Yeah clearly. Your estate is lovely, but the band is done for the night so I'm going to collect my tips and go home!” I brush against his shoulder and grab my stuff to leave.

Drake

I suppose I didn't have to be so harsh on the girl, but it was so easy to tease her about her pathetic dress. I went to the caterers to see if there were leftover food that I could cook up myself. They gave me some steak and seafood and gladly took it to the grill. I set up the grill, making sure it was hot enough, and I stepped away to grab the seasoning. When I came back, the grill was the right temperature, but when I placed the food on the grill, it was so hot that the food caught fire, and some embers got on me!

“Help! Help! Somebody help! I'm on fire!” I try to use something to pat the fire out, but before I do, I feel a wave of water being thrown on me.

“Now we're even.” It was that new girl from the band that Pippin was fond of. She didn't have to come back. Heck, I wouldn't have blamed her if she didn't, but she surprisingly did. She stayed briefly to make sure the embers didn't reignite and went to talk to Pippin and came walking towards me.

“I hope now you won't judge someone by what they do and don't have. Goodnight, Drake.” She leaves again, and I'm left speechless. Maybe there's something to this girl.