Raven's novel!

The Girl Who Wanted To Be Popular

By Raven von Wood

 

My plot:  The story of Anna Smitt, the girl who wanted to be popular more then anything.  Anna is fourteen years old and is ready to start high school.  Over the summer she gets highlights, loses 13 pounds, and her braces are finally off.  Popularity - here she comes.  One problem: She has no idea how to get in, much less stay in.  Enters Stormy Anderson, an ex-popular.  Anna decides to secretly hire Stormy to be her personal popularity consultant.  Can Anna get in, does she even want to?

 

Chapter 1:

 

Anna Smitt walked through the mall with her mother practically running to keep up with her.  "Must you go so fast?" Her mom asked.  Anna rolled her eyes, "Mom, we've barely gotten anything done."  Anna looked at her mom, Judy Smitt.  Judy may have been pretty once upon a time, but now she was just old and tired to her, and she was only 37 years old.  "Mom, I need clothes, do you want me to look bad my first day of school?"  Judy laughed, "Yes, I desperately want for you to look bad.  It's actually my dying wish." 

Anna and her mother were doing their annual back-to-school shopping that they had done each year for as long as Anna could remember.  Anna had asked her mom if she could go shopping by herself this time, but her mother said no.  She was constantly warning Anna about how easily she could get kidnapped.  "Mom, we still have yet to get to Express."  "Express is too expensive.  I hope you brought your wallet, Anna."  Anna nodded, "Yes mother, I brought it."  Anna had been working for the past 5 months at a hot dog stand downtown.  She hated it, but at least she had some money on her own. 

 

Anna walked into Express, she looked through the clothes.  Judy looked around, "Oh, what I wouldn't give to be able to fit into these clothes again."  Anna laughed, "Please, not that 'I'm so fat' stuff again.  Man, everything in here is way to expensive.  What am I going to do?" "Well, if you hadn't lost so much weight this summer you would have clothes." "Don't be ridiculous, it was only thirteen pounds."  Anna was now 5'7' and weighing 105 pounds after a summer full of pain and dieting.  She hadn't had a frappuchino in months, but it was worth it.  She hoped the populars at her school would take notice. 

 

After buying a pair of jeans and two shirts she left.  Anna's cell phone rang, "Hello?"  "Hey Anna", Sarah, her best friend said over the phone.  "Hey, what's up?"  "Not much, I'm just watching you."  "I beg your pardon?"  Sarah's squeaky laugh came over the phone, "Turn around."  Anna saw Sarah standing at the entrance of Starbucks, "Hey.  You didn't tell me you were going to the mall today."  "I didn't know I was", Sarah said before hanging up.  "Mom, can I please go hang out at Starbucks with Sarah?"  Judy looked over and waved at Sarah, "I suppose, but only if you stay put.  I'll be back to get you in about thirty minutes."  "Okay, thanks." 

 

Anna hugged her friend, she hadn't seen Sarah in weeks since Sarah had gone to London.  "Oh my gosh Anna, you look so, so-".  "Good?" Anna offered, hoping that was what her friend was going for.  "Um, different."  Anna smiled, "Like the highlights?  I'm totally blonde!"  "You're so skinny", Sarah commented.  Anna laughed, "Thank you.  I'm just glad my diet's over.  I'm so getting a frapp."  Sarah rolled her eyes, "You're so weird.  You didn't need to diet."  "Oh, yes I did.  Don't I look better?"  Sarah shrugged, "You looked good to me before."  "But my braces are finally off!  I'm no longer a brace-face!"  "I guess looks just aren't that important to me."  Anna nodded, she loved Sarah like a sister.  She had known her since kindergarten.  But sometimes it seemed to Anna that Sarah just didn't get it socially.  Sarah would go out in sweats and a big shirt and not care what anyone thinks.  Sometimes Anna wished Sarah was prettier and cooler, but she immediately felt ashamed for that.  Sarah was great and always there for her.  But Anna just couldn't help wishing she could improve Sarah.  But one thing was for sure, Sarah's Sarah and that will never change.

 

Anna ordered her favorite, a Java Chip frappuchino while Sarah got a Vanilla Bean.  They took a seat, "So, how's your mom doing?"  Anna shrugged, "Ok, you know Sarah, we don't have to talk about it every single time we have a conversation."  Sarah nodded, "I know Ann, but it's just-."  "Just what, Sarah? What?" Anna asked annoyed.  "I don't know, it seems like you keep trying to skirt the issue."  "Sarah, sometimes you're as bad as my therapist.  I'm not skirting anything, so don't be such a moron."  Sarah folded her arms, "Ok, if you think not talking about it will help."  "It will, so shut up and drink." 

 

Sarah told Anna more about London and how her English accent had improved, but Anna only half-listened.  She was staring over at Cameron Watts, the hottest guy in her school.  Cameron had sandy blonde hair and gorgeous blue eyes.  His family also had the most money in San Francisco.  She had secretly been crushing on him since the 3rd grade.  Not only was Cameron an athlete, he was in all honors classes.  He was sitting on a bench in the center of the mall texting.  I wonder who he's texting, Anna thought to herself.  "Are you listening?" Sarah asked.  "Hunh?  Oh, yeah."  Sarah leaned across Anna, "Ooooh, I should have known.  Cameron Watts, the god himself."  "Shut up", Anna replied.  "Go say hi to him", Sarah advised.  "Are you insane?  You can't just go say hi to Cameron Watts.  Don't you know anything?"  "I know you like him, and since you do, it's perfectly normal to go say hi."  Anna shook her head, "He doesn't know I'm alive."  Sarah laughed, "He's in all of your classes, yet you can't say hi?"  "You don't get it.  He's Cameron Watts, I'm Anna.  To him I'm nothing.  The only time we've ever exchanged words is when he told me I had spinach in my teeth."  Sarah started cracking up, "How could I forget.  You refused to go to school for two days."  "Oh my God, Sarah!  He's coming over." 

 

Cameron walked into Starbucks.  He ordered a grande chai latte.  "Ewww, he likes chai lattes, Anna.  Gross", Sarah whispered.  "Shut up, it's sophisticated."  Cameron got his drink and turned around to see Anna and Sarah staring him down.  He waved at them.  Sarah waved back, but Anna just kept staring.  Sarah stood, "What are you doing?" Anna asked.  "You'll see", Sarah said with a wink.  

 

She's talking to him! Anna yelled in her head.  Cameron walked over with them and took a seat.  "Hey Anna."  Anna couldn't believe he  was actually looking at her.  "Uh, hey Cameron Watts."  Sarah gave Anna a weird look.  Anna was so used to always calling him by his first and last name to Sarah, that she accidentally called him by his full name.  Cameron gave her a weird look.  Sarah motioned for her to say something.  "Um, how was your summer?" Anna asked him.  He shrugged, "Alright.  I went to Italy with my parents." "Wow, Italy?  That's amazing.  You know, Anna loves Italy", Sarah said.  Anna looked over at Sarah, "What?"  "You've been?" Cameron asked.  "Uh, yeah, who hasn't?" Anna lied.  "Really? Wow, cool.  What part did you go to?"  "Uh, you know.  Milan, Rome, Tuscany, those places and some others."  "Cool, did you get a chance to visit Lucca?"  "Lucca?"  "Yeah, the birthplace of Puccini."  "Oh, right, yeah I visited Lucca.  Great place."  "Yeah", Cameron agreed, "but the flights were so long.  Thank God for ipods, right?"  Anna nodded, "Yeah, they were pretty long."  The truth was that Anna had only been on a place once, and that was to New York City, but a little lie never hurt anyone.  "So, I'm assuming you'll be going to Sands High School?" Cameron asked.  "Yep", Anna replied.  "Cool."  Just then all of Cameron's friends walked by, they were obviously looking for someone.  "Oh, I gotta get going." "Ok", Sarah replied.  "But it was nice talking to you two.  By the way Anna, you look great."  With that, he left.

 

Anna, Sarah & Judy walked through the mall.  "Can you believe he actually said that to me, Sarah?" Anna whispered.  The subject of boys always worried Anna's mom.  Sarah rolled her eyes, "Well, since I was there, I can believe it."   "Oh my gosh, Sarah.  Didn't you notice the sparks between us?  The way he looked at me.  I'm telling you, he likes me."  "He could just be a nice guy, Ann, don't get too over-dramatic now."  Anna stopped talking, as much as she wished she would, Sarah just wouldn't understand.  Sarah thought dating and guys were a waste of time.  To some degree, Anna did too.  But not if the guy was Cameron Watts.

 

Chapter 2:

 

Anna got home and hung up her new clothes.  She decided to wear a new black mini skirt and white blouse with leggings.  Judy walked into the room, "So, you excited?"  "Yeah, do I look good?"  "You always look good sweetie."  Anna didn't know why she asked for her mom's opinion.  The truth is you can't get an honest opinion from a mom, they live to encourage.  "You're not fat, you're shapely."  "You're not dumb, you just need more time to learn."  Moms couldn't tell it like it is.  "Mom, you know how you were really popular in high school?"  Judy laughed, "Well, that was forever ago, but yeah.  I was."  "That's what I want mom.  I want to be popular more then anything else in the world."  "But Anna, don't you think having a good group of friends is more important then popularity?"  "Mom, what group?  My only friend really is Sarah, and let's face it.  She's not exactly the coolest."  Judy looked shock, "Anna, what's gotten into you?  She's your best friend in the world.  When you two get together you never shut up.  How can you say that?"  "Mom, this is high school.  It may be good if Sarah and I started trying to make other friends then just each other.  Surely you see nothing wrong in that?"  "I see something wrong in the way you've been acting.  I mean, ever since your dad and Lily died, you've been-."  "Mom, stop!  I thought I told you I don't want to talk about it."  "Honey, it's been six months, and I know ther's still a lot of pain, but you have to at least be able to discuss it.  If not with Sarah or your therapist, then at least with me."  "Mom, you're being silly.  How I'm acting has nothing to do with them. Ok?"  Anna went back to looking in the mirror.  Judy went and put her hand on Anna's shoulder, "I want to be able to understand you Anna."  "Mom, there's nothing to understand.  My name is Anna Lee Smitt, I'm 5'7', I have blue eyes, I like shopping.  Did I leave anything out?"  Judy shook her head, "I'm going." 

 

Anna laid down on her bed and thought of them.  That's what she called her father and sister now, she couldn't bring herself to call them by her name.  Her name was Lily Smitt, and she was beautiful.  She was tall and tan, with gorgeous blonde hair in ringlets that went down her back.  She had a smile that never went away.  She lived everyday wondering, expecting something exciting to happen.  She was a cheerleader and was so popular.  She was a two years older then Anna and Anna worshipped her.  Anna wanted to be her sister so badly that when she was younger she would close her eyes and imagine living her sister's life.  Yes, it would be wonderful.  However, Lily and Anna's dad, Richard Smitt died in a car accident.  Their father had been driving Lily up to Los Angeles.  Lily's entire life she had been told she'd be perfect for modeling, so she wanted to see if she had what it took to make it.  Lily got signed in Los Angeles with Morkosa Modeling, she was so excited when she had called Anna to tell her the news.  "Anna, guess what: I got the job!  I really want to talk to you sis, why haven't you called me back?  Ugh, that is not acceptable missy.  Anyway, please please please call me back.  I need to tell you everything, I already met this super hot model guy who's like 19 and he's not gay.  So anyway, call me, text me, talk to me!  I love you Anna, bye."  That's what Anna had heard on her voicemail machine on her cell phone.  Later at four in the morning Anna's mother was shaking her to tell her that her father and Lily had been in a terrible accident.  They died instantly.  Although she tried, she couldn't remember the funeral.  She just remembered that thousands of teenagers were there to say their goodbyes.  Anna had felt numb the entire time, she couldn't even bring herself to cry.  She had already cried herself out.  She just wanted Lily and her father back.  Anna had spent the next week in bed, she wouldn't answer the phone if Sarah called.  She and her mom both just took to their beds.  Her mother, a elementary school teacher, had to start working a second job working at a cosmetics store part-time. 

 

Anna went under her bed and pulled out a box, the "them box", as she called it to herself.  She started looking through the pictures of she and Lily together.  There was one of she and Lily at a Halloween party, another of them at the beach.  Anna's eyes filled with tears, but she quickly brushed them away.  Tears never help.  Don't cry.  Anna instructed herself.  "I'm going to get popular Lily, and you'll be proud to call me your sister", Anna whispered. 

 

Chapter 3:

 

Jeff, Sarah's seventeen year old brother, pulled into the driveway.  "Anna, time to go."  Anna looked in the mirror again, there was no question about it.  She looked great.  "I'm coming."  Anna slowly took her time going down the stairs, she wouldn't run, it could mess up her hair.  She felt like a superstar today, not some lame middle-schooler anymore."  "Anna, you look beautiful." Anna gave her mom a hug, "Thanks."  "Have a great day, hon.  Now, I have to work two jobs today, so I won't be able to come home until around eight. But when I do, I want to hear absolutely everything!  Got it?"  "Yeah, got it."

 

Anna walked out to Jeff's porsche.  Sarah's family had some serious money.  "Hey Anna."  "Hey Sarah, hey Jeff."  Jeff nodded, he had been taking Anna & Sarah to school since he got a license.  "Cute outfit", Sarah said.  "Thanks."  Anna observed Sarah's jeans and red top.  It wasn't a bad outfit, but it wasn't a 'wow outfit' either.  It was just, boring.  She had also not put any makeup on, just some lip gloss.  She was ever wearing her long brown hair in a ponytail.  "Do I look ready for high school?" Sarah asked.  Anna laughed, "You look exactly the same as you did last year." Sarah hit Anna, "Shut up, I tried."  "So Jeff, how are freshmen treated at this high school?" Anna asked.  "Like crap", he replied, lighting up a cigarette.  Sarah rolled her eyes at her older brother.  "Oh,  well you're popular and I'm glad we know you", Anna said with a smile.  "Yeah", Jeff said taking a drag, "uh, I'm a senior and you're freshmen, meaning that we don't know each other.  Understand?"  Sarah flicked her brother in the head.  The two of them started arguing, Anna could hear some of it.  "I'm going to tell mom you didn't quit smoking."  "I'll tell mom you snuck out when we were in London."  Blah blah blah.  Anna was used to hearing them fight, and she was used to tuning them out.  I'll she could think about was high school.  She had lunch with Sarah, but that was it.  Anna was on her own.  She immediately got a shaky feeling in her stomach.  "I think I'm going to be sick."  "Well, if you're going to be sick, throw up on my annoying sister", Jeff said with a laugh.  "See", Sarah yelled, "you're such a-."  The fighting went on as Anna silently prayed to God that everything would be okay.

 

Jeff pulled into the parking lot.  Sarah and Anna climbed out of the car.  "Wow", they said in unison.  Over a thousand teens were filing out of buses, and cars.  "We're definitely not in middle school anymore", Sarah commented.  "It's so", Anna's voice trailed off. "Big?" Sarah asked. Anna shook her head, "No, amazing.  Look at it.  The fun and freshness.  It's all so cool."  Jeff shrugged, "Yeah, you get over that feeling after the first five minutes."  Sarah gave Jeff a hug, "Bye big bro."  Jeff pushed her away, "Don't ever do that again, and I'll continue to not tell mom that you snuck and got a screename without her permission.  Sarah nodded, "Fine."

 

Anna and Sarah walked to the main entrance.  "Ooooh Sarah, we're locker neighbors. Just like in middle school", Anna said.  Sarah shook her head, "No Ann, nothing's like middle school.  We don't even have a class together.  This is horrible."  Sarah looked down, although she tried to hide it, it was obvious she was scared.  "Come on Sarah, don't be sad.  We have lunch together, and we ride to and from school together.  Besides, we're constantly talking to each other. Nothing's going to change."  "But everything already has", Sarah argued.  "God, Sarah, sometimes things need to change for the better.  Did you seriously think we'd be in middle school for the rest of our lives?  You think this is bad?  One day we'll go off to universities, probably different ones.  There's a good chance that one day, thirty years from now you won't even remember my name."  "That's bull", Sarah replied, "I'm not that kind of friend.  Unlike you, I really value our friendship."  "What?  Sarah, how can you say that?  You know how much you're friendship means to me." "Whatever", Sarah said, crossing her arms.  "Sarah, this is our first day of high school.  It's supposed to be fun.  Can we please not spend it fighting with each other.  Come on, you're my best friend and that definitely won't change."  Sarah shrugged, "I'm off to study hall and French."  "I'm off to study hall and Algebra 1."  "Good luck Ann."  Anna hugged her friend, "You too Sarah."

 

Anna walked into the Algebra 1 class, she immediately saw Cameron Watts. She noticed a few other students from middle school, but she couldn't take her eyes off of him.  She saw two empty seats, one behind him, and one next to him.  She knew sitting next to him would be too daring, besides, she'd be more then happy to sit behind him and look at his hair.  She tried to walk past him, "Thanks for saying hi, Anna."  Anna stopped dead in her tracks and turned.  He's actually talking to me in public? "Uh, sorry.  Hey."  Cameron flashed her a smile, "It's okay.  But seriously, sometimes I get the impression you dislike me."  Dislike you! You idiot, I'm obsessed with you!  "What?  No way.  I really like you.  I just, well, you've never really talked to me much."  "Well, I definitely regret that now."  Anna smiled, "It's okay."  "Want to sit by me?"  "By you?  Okay."  She sat down in the desk next to his.  "Thanks, I was so afraid I'd get some freak to sit by me."  "Well, I'm definitely not a freak." "Good, I never took you for one." 

 

Anna got out her cell phone and texted Sarah: SARAH!  I'M SITTING BY CAMERON!  CAMERON WATTS!  Sarah texted back: NO WAY!!!!  HOW?  Anna went to text her back when she heard, "Please share with the class you're important message Ms. Smitt."  It was Mr. Barles. He was her math teacher! Dang, Lily had told Anna many horror stories over Mr. Barles.  Mr. Barles was an old, short man who lived to embarass his students.  "Uh, I'd rather not, sir."  "This guy's no joke Anna", Cameron whispered, "I'd just say what I texted."  Mr. Barles came over, "Phone please?"  She put it in his hand.  Mr. Barles cleared his throat, "Sarah!  I'm sitting by Cameron!  Cameron Watts!"  Cameron looked at Anna with a smirk.  Anna's cheeks burned.  What a jerk, I can't believe him.  "What this the important message you had to send Ms. Smitt?" Mr. Barles asked.  "Yes sir."  Mr. Barles rolled his eyes, "Well, we're all very excited for you sitting by Mr. Watts, here."  Anna looked down into her desk.  "I'm sorry", she whispered to Cameron.  "It's fine", Cameron whispered back.

 

After her first three classes, Anna walked into the cafeteria.  She didn't see Sarah anywhere.  After getting her food, she immediately felt a gulp in her throat, she didn't know who to sit with.  She looked around, "Hey Anna", Cameron called.  Anna walked over with her tray, "Yeah?"  "Look, my table's full today.  If it wasn't, I'd totally invite you to sit with me and my friends." Anna couldn't believe he actually said that to her, "You would?  "Yeah, why not.  So anyway, want to sit with me and my friends tomorrow at lunch?  I'll save you a seat?"  "Sure, but what about Sarah?"  "Sarah who?"  "Sarah Carrington, my friend.  The one I'm always with."  "Oh, the girl who was at Starbucks with you?"  "Yep, that one."  Cameron shrugged, "Uh, maybe we should start off with you."  "Why?"  "Well, it's kinda hard to get in with my friends.  Also, none of the girls I hang with really like Sarah."  "But why not?"  "Well, she's a little strange, you know.  Well, that's what I've heard from some of my friends."  Anna nodded, she felt horrible.  She wanted to defend Sarah, but knew better.  She would need to wait.  Popularity was definitely a gradual process.  "Yeah, I get it."  "Ok, I'll see you around.  Wait, give me your cell phone."  Anna handed it to him.  He added himself as a contact to her cell.  "Now you have my number. Call me sometime."  "Alright Cameron, I will."    

 

Sarah ran up to Anna, "I saw Cameron Watts talking to you."  Anna laughed, "Sarah, no need to call him by first and last name anymore.  He's strictly Cameron now, my soon-to-be boyfriend."  Sarah squealed, "What!  Tell all!"  Anna and Sarah walked outside to eat their lunch, and Anna did tell all.  She told her about how Cameron had invited her to sit by him in class and had given her his number.  "Oh my gosh.  Wow Ann, maybe he does like you."  "And that's not all Sarah, he invited me to have lunch with him tomorrow."  Sarah screamed, as she always did when she got excited.  Anna quickly covered Sarah's mouth, "Shhh, people are looking."  Sarah pushed Anna's hand away, "Cameron Watts invited you to sit with him?  That's insane.  Do you know how many girls would kill to be invited to sit with Cameron Watts?  I mean, Cameron."  Anna laughed, "I know."  "Wow, so we're sitting with the populars tomorrow?"  Anna's smile dropped, "Uh, well, Sarah, I don't know if we both can.  He kinda just invited me."  "What? Didn't you tell him to invite me too?"  "Well yeah, I did, but-".  "But what?"  "Well, you know."  "Oh, I'm not cool enough to sit with them?  Is that it?"  "Sarah, come on, Cameron's not like that.  I'm just taking things slow.  Besides, it's not like we have to eat together always.  We aren't conjoined at the hip or anything.  Right?"  Sarah stood, "Wrong."  Sarah stomped off leaving Anna alone.  Jeff walked by, "Hey Jeff", Anna called.  Jeff turned, "Yeah?"  "You lied, the feeling wore off after five seconds, not five minutes."   

 

The car ride home with Jeff was pretty boring.  Sarah wasn't talking to Anna.  Even Jeff, who was usually oblivious to everything around him, noticed.  "Everything okay with you guys?"  Anna and Sarah shrugged.  Anna couldn't take it anymore, "Jeff, Sarah's being a jealous psycho path!"  "I am not!  Anna's just been a total freak since her dad and Lily died!"  "Shut up Sarah!  You don't know what you're talking about!" Anna yelled.  "Yes I do", Sarah screamed back.  "Stop it", Jeff said, "you both need to chill.  Now, I have a ton of things to think about.  So shut up or you both are walking, got it?"  Sarah and Anna nodded. 

 

Chapter 4:

 

Anna's mom had gotten in late and by in Anna had already gone to bed.  Anna woke up and went downstairs for breakfast.  "Hey Ann", Judy said, while making coffee.  "Hey mom", Anna gave her mom a hug.  "Thanks for waiting up."  "I'm sorry mom, but I was exhausted last night."  "Rough day?" Judy asked.  "Somewhat.  Sarah hates me."  "What, why?"  Anna shook her head, "I don't want to talk about it.  But Cameron asked me to sit with him at lunch today."  "Cameron, as in Cameron Watts?" Judy asked.  "The one and only."  "But you used to say he didn't know you were alive."  "Well, he didn't.  But apparently now he does.  I really like him, mom."  "What do you like about him?"  "He's really nice."  "Oh, I can tell you know so much about him", Judy laughed.  "Come on mom, it's not like I'm writing a freakin' biography about him."  "Hey, watch your language."  "Yes ma'am.  Anyway, he's just a really cool guy and I'm glad we're becoming friends."  "Is that why Sarah's mad at you?"  "Oh my gosh mom.  You're probably right.  That's what's bugging her.  She's not jealous because I'm going to be popular.  She's jealous because Cameron likes me and not her!  How could I be so blind?"  Judy shrugged, "I don't know.  I mean, it was just a suggestion.  It could not be that." Anna shook her head, sometimes her mom just didn't get it.  "Thanks mom, but I know it's that.  I have to go get ready."

 

Anna couldn't find anything to wear.  She had billions of clothes, but nothing she wanted to wear.  There was only one thing to do, she had to borrow an outfit from Lily.  Anna walked across the hall.  The hot pink door had the name Lily painted on it in purple.  Anna had been the one to paint it.  She touched the knob, but quickly withdrew her hand from it.  It was ice cold.  For no one had been in that room since Lily's death. She and mom just never did it.  They didn't want to walk in their.  Sometimes Anna wished Lily was just in that room all day with the door locked, and that's why she never saw her anymore.  But she quickly shook off that idea.  She knew Lily was not the type to ever want to spend her life in a solitary room.  Anna took a deep breath, I can do this, come on Anna.  It's just a room.  Just open the door, get what you wanted, and that's all there is to it.  

 

Anna opened the door and walked in, she looked around.  It was exactly the same as it was when Lily had left it. The bed was unmade, her pajamas were on the floor.  The dolls that lined up against the wall were still there, in their perfect order.  Anna walked over to the closet and opened the door.  There were beautiful clothes galore.  Anna selected a cute purple dress and a pair of purple heels that were Lily's.  Anna quickly ran out of the room.

 

"I'm leaving mom, bye!" Anna called to Judy, who was in the shower.  "Okay, have a good day."  "Thanks."  Anna stood outside and waited for Jeff to come.  She didn't want her mom to see her in Lily's clothes.  Jeff pulled up and Anna got in.  "Hey Jeff."  "Hey Anna."  "Hey Sarah", Anna said to Sarah, who was sitting in the front seat, rather then in the back with Anna.  "Hey."  Anna texted Sarah: Please talk to me.  I'm sorry.  Anna watched Sarah read the message and then drop her cell phone back into her back pack. 

 

They got to the school.  Sarah started walking to the entrance, so Anna followed her.  "Sarah, you're acting silly."  "I'm sorry, are you actually talking to me?  In public?  Wow Anna, you shouldn't.  God forbid Cameron sees you with me."  Anna took a deep breath, "I've been thinking, and I know why you're upset."  Sarah crossed her arms, "Oh, this ought to be good."  "You're not upset with me Sarah because I'll be popular eventually.  You're upset because you like Cameron and he likes me." Sarah's eyes widenend, "Anna, are-."  "It's okay Sarah.  You don't have to be embarassed.  I won't tell anyone.  I'm actually relieved to see that you have a crush on a guy.  For a second I was beginning to wonder about you, just kidding.  Anyway, I don't want my relationship with Cameron to get in the way of our friendship Sarah.  So you'll just have to try your best to get over it.  I mean, think of all of the hot guys at this school.  You're bound to find one of your own eventually. Okay?"  Sarah started cracking up, "You're insane, Anna.  Insane!"  "What do you mean?"  "You seriously thought I was jealous because Cameron Watts is starting to talk to you?  The only reason he even knows your name is because I went up and talked to him at Starbucks."  As much as Anna hated to admit it, that was true.  "Well, he liked me all along, he was just too shy."  "Please, he never gave you the time of day when you were a brace-face.  Also, I don't like that wanna-be Ken barbie.  I've never liked him.  Also, what the heck do you mean 'you were beginning to wonder about me'? That's so rude!"  "Hey, that was just a joke!"  Sarah rolled her eyes, "Have fun with Cameron Watts, you're soon-to-be boyfriend."  With that, Sarah flicked off Anna and marched off to class.  

 

Later on, it was time to have lunch with Cameron.  Anna ran to the bathroom and put more lip gloss on.  She then combed her hair and put on more mascara.  Sarah walked into the bathroom, "Why don't you just shove your head into a bucket of make-up?"  "Why don't you just go choke on a chicken bone?"  Sarah rolled her eyes, "Nice dress, you look trampy."  "Nice outfit.  Are you feeling better?" Sarah gave Anna a confused look, "What do you mean?"  "Are you feeling better?  I mean, weren't you sick before?  It looks like someone threw up on that outfit." 

 

Anna walked to the cafeteria.  Cameron as waiting by the entrance.  Anna thought that was so sweet, "You didn't have to wait for me." "I wanted to, though." Anna walked with Cameron to the table.  She couldn't believe she was going to sit with the populars that had ruled middle school.  There was Kyle, a really hot jock, but he was really dumb.  Leah, tall and a brunette, although she was beautiful, she was brutal.  She could make even the toughest girls cry, she had seen her in action before..  Tanya, hispanic and gorgeous, and the biggest gossip you'll ever meet.  She was also apparently the daughter of a famous fashion designer.  Jerry, who had been an actor in a television series back when he was five.  Then of course, Amber Dane, who had been middle school's queen bee.  Every girl wanted to be friends with Amber, yet Amber only chose Leah and Tanya.  Amber had long red hair that he always wore down, and electric green eyes.  All the guys liked her, yet she only dated high school guys.  Although Anna and Sarah constantly said her outfits were outrageous and that she wasn't as pretty as everyone said, even they were jealous of her.  

 

"Hey guys, you know Anna, right?"  Anna took a seat next to Cameron.  "Anna who?" Tanya asked.  "Hey Tanya, I'm Anna Smitt."  All of the girls looked up, "Anna Smitt, as in Lily Smitt's younger sister?" Tanya asked.  "That's the one."  "Oh right, I saw you at the funeral.  You certainly don't look the same", Amber commented.  Amber just spoke to me!  "Thank you.  I finally have my braces off", Anna said.  "Ewww, braces, I would die.  Luckily Amber, Tanya & I were born with perfect teeth."  Jerry leaned over and shook Anna's hand, "Nice to meet you."  Kyle just winked at her and went back to eating his sandwich.  "Cute dress", Amber complimented her.  "Thanks, I got it in Italy", Anna lied.  "Cool", Amber said.  For the next 45 minutes, Anna felt like she was being interviewed.  All of them were asking her a bunch of questions about her, where she got her hair done, where she lived by, what it was like being Lily's sister, the list of questions went on and on.  "So, what's up with you and Sarah?" Amber asked.  "What do you mean?"  "Well, you two are like connected. For a while I thought you were dating each other."  Both Leah and Tanya started cracking up.  "She's just a friend.  But she can be a bit annoying at times", Anna replied.  Anna had a funny feeling that being friends with these people wouldn't be so easy.

 

Chapter 5:

 

Anna walked out to the parking lot to Jeff's car.  "I'm not riding home with you guys today." "What?  Why not?" Sarah asked.  "I have another ride, thank you."  Sarah rolled her eyes, "Don't be stupid and walk home.  You might get kidnapped."  "I'm not kidding Sarah, I have another ride.  So, bye." 

 

Anna walked over to the hallway where she saw her.  It was Stormy Anderson.  Stormy Anderson was in 11th grade, the grade Lily Smitt would be in.  Stormy was an ex-popular.  Stormy nd Lily had been best friends until the end of 9th grade.  Then all of a sudden Stormy stopped hanging out with her.  When Anna asked why, Lily just got annoyed and said, "The girl's a total freak now, okay?  Why do you care so much?"  Anna would just shrug, "I don't know."  Stormy certainly looked different now.  She was all punk rock now, but still beautiful.  "Hey Stormy", Anna called.  Stormy turned around, "Anna?" Anna could tell Stormy was suprised to see her.  "Hey Stormy."  "Oh my gosh, you're all grown up.  You look like Lily."  Anna smiled, "Thanks.  You look good.  Are you good?"  "Yeah, I'm fine", Stormy replied.  Anna looked down.  "So, did you want something from me?" Stormy asked.  "Uh, yeah.  Do you wanna go somewhere?"  "I'm sorry?"  "You know, go somewhere.  Like for Starbucks?  To talk?  I'll pay, if you drive." Stormy nodded, "Well, okay." 

 

Stormy drove down the road, "Nice car", Anna said.  "Thanks."  It was a mini van, really nothing special, but Anna tried to be kind.  "So, how's your mom doing?" Stormy asked.  "Uh, she's good.  Busy you know, she's working two jobs.  But yeah, she's fine."  "So, I see your braces are finally off."  Anna nodded, "Yep, I got them off a week ago."  Stormy laughed, "When I got mine off I was constantly smiling.  Most people thought I was on drugs."  Anna laughed.  "So, how's your family?" Anna asked.  "Good.  Dad's still dorky and mom's still nagging, but gotta love them, right?"  "Right.  I miss going over to your house.  You're mom is the best cook ever."  "Yeah, well you should come over some time.  It's been over a year."  "Will your mother make her famous burritos?"  "Sure."  "Well then yes."  "Cute dress", Stormy said.  "Thanks, I bought it the other day."  "Hm, that's weird.  I got that for Lily for her 15th birthday."  Anna's cheeks reddened, "Oh, this dress.   Sorry, I got confused about which dress I was wearing today.  Yeah, I found this in my closet.  Lily must have thrown it up there or something."  "Oh."   

 

Anna decided to start daydreaming.  She remember when she was in 3rd grade and Lily was in 5th.  Lily came home from school one day with a new friend.  "Anna, please meet my new friend Stormy." Anna remembered first noticing Stormy's long black hair.  "Hi, nice to meet you." Anna remembered that she noticed that Stormy was dressing exactly like Lily.  Since that day Lily and Stormy were inseperable.  It seemed like Stormy practically lived there.  Stormy went to their house everyday after school and always slept over on weekends.  Stormy even went with them on family vacations.  At first Anna was jealous of Stormy because Lily was always with her.  But she quickly learned it was hard to dislike Stormy.  She was nice to everyone.  Anna soon became great friends with Stormy.  Anna would secretly instruct Stormy to be more assertive with Lily.  Anna hated how Lily would tell Stormy to do something, and Stormy would always jump to do it.  But once Lily and Stormy stopped being friends with each other, Lily told Anna she couldn't talk to her either.  "Why not? You aren't the boss of me Lily!" Anna yelled.  "I'm your older sister and what I say is final. You can no longer talk to that girl.  If you do, I will find out and there will be hell to pay.  Got it?"  Anna just gulped and said yes.  Whenever Stormy would call, Anna wouldn't answer the phone.  You couldn't win with Lily, that was for sure. 

 

Stormy and Anna walked into Starbucks, ordered their drinks and took a seat.  "So, what's up?" Stormy asked.  Anna couldn't help noticing that Stormy's tone sounded irritated.  "Pardon?"  "Ok, you haven't talked to me in forever.  When Lily and I stopped being friends, you immediately dropped me.  Now you just come up and are being all hospitable?  What the hell?  Did you just want a ride to Starbucks?"  "No Stormy.  And look, when Lily stopped being your friend, she told me I had to stop being your friend as well."  Stormy rolled her eyes, "Yes, because what Lily wanted Lily always got, right?"  "Don't talk about her.  Don't you even care about what happened to her?"  Stormy's eyes immediately filled with tears, "She was my best friend in the entire world.  We were practically sister.  Every second I was allowed to, I was with her.  When she died, I didn't leave my room for days.  I couldn't eat or sleep.  I'll I could do was sob and ask God to bring her back.  I kept calling her cell, but I knew she wouldn't be able to answer.  I wanted to call you, but couldn't get myself to.  At the funeral I hung out in the back.  It made me sick how all of her so called "friends" just went to the funeral, cried for a bit, then were all making their plans to go to the movies the next night.  There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about Lily.  So to answer your question, yeah Anna, I care!"  Anna was taken back by Stormy's response.  She figured Stormy couldn't care less whether Lily was dead or alive.  Man, I'm such an idiot some times.  Of course Stormy cares, they were best friends.  How could I be such a jerk? 

 

"I'm sorry Stormy."  Stormy quickly wiped away the tears in her eyes, "It's ok.  Just never say that again, ok?  Because I do care.  I care so much about that girl that it makes me sick because after the way she treated me I wished her dead.  I wanted her to die. But then she did and-."  Anna's eyes filled with tears, "I know.  It's ok. I won't ever say that again.  I know you cared."  Stormy nodded, "Ok."  "Anyway, I actually want something from you. I'd be willing to pay you to do a job."  "What kind of job?" Stormy asked, obviously unsure.  "Um, you see, I really want to become popular."  Stormy laughed.  "I'm serious Stormy, why do you think I look this good?  I want popularity so badly that it's killing me."  Stormy shook her head, "Go on."  "Well, I ate with the populars today, but I was so out of place.  I didn't get their jokes or anything.  I was just so uncomfortable."  "So what?"  "So, you were a popular."  Stormy laughed, "Yeah, like a really long time ago."  "Well you know how they think!  How they interact.  What to say, how to dress, what to do.  You could train me, Stormy."  "What?  Anna, you're losing it.  You want me to be a popularity trainer?"  Anna shook her head, "Let's make it snazzier then that.  Consider yourself a popularity consultant.  I'll use ear plugs, and you can instruct me on what to say and do.  Got it?"  Stormy laughed, "You're insane.  For how much?"  "Um, how about $10 a week?"  Stormy stood, "Please, $10 a week to babysit you?  No way."  "Don't go.  How about $15 a week?"  Stormy sat, "I'm listening.  "Just to teach me how to get in.  It wouldn't be permanent or anything."  Stormy rolled her eyes, "Getting in's the easy part.  It's staying in that's hard."  "Stormy, getting in was easy for you because you were in the 5th grade.  This is high school.  Getting in with the populars is like a miracle.  It's nearly impossible."  Stormy looked up, "Popularity isn't as important as you think, Ann."  "Yeah, it is."  "Why's it so important to you Anna?  What are you going to get out of it?  So you become popular, will it be life changing?  Will it make any difference?"  "Of course it will!  Stormy, if you're popular, you have it made.  You get invited to all of the parties, you get to do all of the cool things."  "But those people are never really your friends.  They'll just use you so that they have a pretty sidekick."  "Is that what Lily did to you?" Anna asked. Stormy looked down, "That was a long time ago Anna."  Anna nodded, "Will you just please?"  Stormy nodded, "Fine.  But you have to listen to everything I say. Deal?" Stormy extended her hand.  Anna shook it, "Deal."

 

Once Stormy got to the house, she asked, "I have to use the bathroom like crazy.  Can I use yours?"  Anna nodded, "Sure."  When they went in though Anna smelled pie baking and knew her mom was home.  Man, I forgot she doesn't have to work two jobs today.  Dang.  "You're mom's home?" Stormy asked.  "Apparently."  Stormy ran into the kitchen, "Ms. Judy!"  Judy turned around, "Stormy!"  Judy ran and hugged Stormy and held onto her as if it was her long-lost daughter.  Judy looked at Stormy, "Look at you.  You're practically a grown woman.  You look gorgeous."  Stormy laughed, "Thanks."  "You have to stay for dinner." "Ok."

 

As Stormy was in the bathroom, Anna helped her mom with dinner.  "I can't believe I get to see that girl again.  When she and Lily stopped being friends, I'm telling you, it was like losing a daughter.  I mean, that girl was always over.  It got to the point where I was just used to her being over all the time.  I could walk around the house in my pajamas with her being over, and it wouldn't even be a big deal.  You know?"  Anna nodded, "Yeah."  "Oh, I'm sorry hon.  I've just been going on and on about Stormy.  How was your day?"  "Pretty good."  "How was lunch with Cameron?"  "It was good.  His friends seem nice."  "That's great dear", Judy said moving around the kitchen.  Anna knew her mom wasn't really listening.  She always said, "That's great dear", if she wasn't really listening.  "Mom, what are you making?"  "Well, now that Stormy's over I guess I'll make pie, chicken and heck, I'll throw in mashed potatoes and salad."  "Mom, it's not like the girl needs a feast.  You never go all out when Sarah's over."  "Yes, well Sarah's never been like a daughter to me.  Not like Stormy."

 

Anna went to the bathroom and saw that the light was off.  Stormy obviously wasn't in there.  She walked up the stairs and saw that Lily's bedroom door was open.  Anna  walked into the room, "What are you doing in here?" Anna asked.  Stormy shrugged, "I don't know.  Man, I haven't been in here in forever."  Anna nodded, "Yeah me either.  This morning was my first time in here since she died."  "For real?" Stormy asked.  "Yeah.  Mom and I just don't go in here."  Stormy nodded, "Can't blame you.  I guess I really felt bad for you and your mom.  I mean, to just lose your dad and sister like that.  Man, there's no way I could deal with that."  Anna nodded, "Yeah, you would.  You would because you have to.  Gotta keep moving forward, ya know?"  "I don't know Anna, but I'll take your word for it."

 

The three of them had a lot of fun together over dinner.  Judy was asking Stormy a lot of questions about how her life was going.  Judy even started bringing up memories that of course included Lily.  It seemed to Anna that Judy liked talking about Lily.  Perhaps mom doesn't bring up Lily anymore to me because she thinks it'll make me sad.  After dinner, Anna walked Stormy out to her car.  "Meet me at lunch in the back of the cafeteria out by the dumpsters.  Got it?"  "Why the dumpsters?" Stormy asked.  "That way we won't be seen."  Stormy rolled her eyes, "Chill Ann, this isn't Mission Impossible."  Anna laughed, "Ok, ok, but please meet me there, five minutes early."  "Five minutes early?  How am I supposed to do that, Anna?  I have class, remember."  "Oh stop, as if you never leave early.  With the people I see you hanging out with, I wouldn't be surprised if you ditch sometimes."    Stormy smiled, "Only sometimes."  "So you can ditch, but you can't leave five minutes early?  Come on Storm, use that charm of yours to get out of class early."  "Fine, fine.  I'll see you tomorrow.  Borrow another outfit of Lily's, alright?"  "Alright."

 

Chapter 6:

 

Anna woke up, ate breakfast, curled her hair into ringlets, and then had to make yet another brave venture into Lily's room.  She opened the closet door and looked at the different outfits. "How did Lily even afford all of these clothes?" Anna whispered to herself.  She saw a really cute pink dressy top and a black mini skirt.  She knew that with the hot pink pumps in Lily's closet, the ensemble would be runway-worthy.  She quickly put on the outfit.  "I'm leaving", she called to her mom. 

 

Anna waited outside, but Jeff's car didn't come.  She called Sarah's cell.  "What do you want Ann?" Sarah asked.  "Um, I want to know why Jeff isn't here.  He's not hung-over again, is he?"  "No Anna, Jeff is not hung-over. I told him that you didn't need a ride."  "What did you just say?"  "I thought your new friends would give you a ride again."  "Look you little bi-".  Sarah hung up before Anna could use words she normally never used.  Lily had once said to Anna, "Anna, if any girl is ever mean to you, call her a female dog."  Anna was shocked at the time, "You mean the b word?  Why would you ever call a girl that?"  Lily shrugged, "It's the worst thing you can call a girl.  It'll get her each time."  Anna had wanted so badly to see if Lily had been right.  

 

Anna went back inside, "Mom, can you give me a ride to school?"  Judy came down the stairs.  "Why?  Where's Jeffy?" "Mom, no one calls him that anymore, it's just Jeff.  Also, he can't pick me up."  "He can't?  But why not?  I pay him to, don't I?"  "Yeah, well Jeff's really sick.  He's throwing up.  He thinks he got food poisoning from some bad sushi he ate last night.  He called and he feels horrible that he can't take me.  So can you?"  Judy nodded, "Sure.  I just wish he would have called earlier."  "Yeah, well he's really sorry." 

 

The ride with her mom was pretty quiet.  Anna wished she could talk easily to her mom, like she could her dad.  She used to be able to talk to her dad about everything.  Anna knew deep down that Judy had liked Lily a lot more then her.  Lily and Judy used to stay up late at night talking.  Anna would hear them and go downstairs to join in, but Judy would tell her to go back up.  "Why mom?" Anna would ask.  "You're younger.  You need your rest."  Anna would plead with Lily, "Tell her to let me stay." "Come on Anna, we're talking about high school stuff.  You wouldn't understand."  

 

"You okay?" Judy asked.  Anna looked down, "You loved Lily more, didn't you?" "I beg your pardon?"  "You loved her more.  I know you did."  Judy shook her head, "I don't understand you Anna.  How could you say that?"  "The way you were talking about Lily last night with Stormy.  How your eyes lit up just with the thought of her.  You've always loved her more, because she's perfect to you.  We'd both get straight A's, but her As would always be higher.  She'd have a 99% and I'd have a 94% so mine wasn't as good.  We both had long hair, but hers was longer and blonder and prettier to you, wasn't it?  You would always brag about her to everyone.  You loved throwing her parties just to see how popular she was and that she would have over a 100 people to invite compared to the 20 people I'd have.  You always were complimenting her beauty and her talent and the attention she could command!" Anna practically screamed. 

 

Anna knew that unlike her, nothing shook her mom.  Judy could always remain calm.  Judy took a deep breath, "You're not allowed to speak to me in that tone.  Now I don't know what this is about, my I know this is not what I deserve.  Lily is my daughter and -".  "Mom!  Lily was your daughter!  She's gone, dead."  Judy remained calm, "Even thirty years from now I'll be able to say I have a daughter named Lily.  That will not change.  I loved her, but I love you too.  And if you don't know that, then I'm sorry, but I don't know what else to do to show you.  And if you don't think I love you as much as Lily, then wearing her old clothes sure as hell wouldn't change that Anna."  Anna rolled her eyes, "Please, I'm not wearing these clothes for you.  I'm wearing them because they're cute and all I have to wear to school is crap.  As if I care that much about what you think."  Judy nodded.  She pulled up to the school and saw Jeff and Sarah getting out of their car.  "Hm, that's strange, I thought Jeff was sick."  Anna got out of the car, "Praise God, he's had a miraculous recovery."  With that Anna slammed the car door and left. 

 

The class before Anna had lunch was World History.  Her teacher, Ms. Simmons, a twenty-five year old woman who had gone from teaching second grade to high school was not the best teacher.  She had a very hard time dealing with the class of twenty freshmen.  Anna didn't even have to ask.  She just left. 

 

Stormy was standing out by the dumpsters in pink skinny jeans, a black top and a pink necktie with converse.  Stormy put her hand over her mouth, "Omg, you look like on of those girls from middle school who would memorize Lily's outfit and come to school the next day looking just like her."  "Shut up, will ya.  Besides, what are you?  Some Avril Lavine wannabe?"  Stormy laughed, "Alright, you got me there."  Anna laughed, she had missed Stormy a lot because unlike Lily, Stormy could easily take criticism.  If Anna ever criticized Lily, Lily would get very defensive.  "What do you mean this outfit looks fine?  It doesn't look amazing?  What are you saying?" 

 

"So, you got the stuff, or what?" Stormy asked.  Anna laughed, "You sound as if I'm a drug addict or something."  Anna pulled out the earplugs and walkie-talkie.  Anna put them in her ears, "You'll use this walkie-talkie to instruct to me whatever you want me to do.  Understand?"  Stormy nodded, "Yeah yeah, it's not rocket science or anything.  I got it." Ok, thanks."  "So, outfit's good?"  "Yep, outfit's fine."  "Sure?"  "No, I'm lying", Stormy rolled her eyes.  "You can be a real female dog when you want to be."  Stormy smirked, "I got lessons from thee top female dog."  "Who?"  "Lily Smitt, who else?"  "Lily was not!"  Stormy shook her head, "Ann, you got a totally different version of Lil at home.  At school she was an evil, ruthless bi-."  Anna coughed.  "Female dog", Stormy corrected herself.  "Whatev.  I've heard all of the fake horror stories from girls.  'Lily's your sister?  I feel so bad for you!' 'Lily called my older sister this and Lily did that.' Whenever I would ask Lily about it she would just call them haters and say they made up lies because they were jeaous of her."  "And you believe her?" Stormy asked.  "She's my sister.  Yeah I believe her."  "Whatever, I can tell you all about Lil some other time." "Probably won't believe anything  you say, but sure, go for it." 

 

Anna put some more lipgloss on and waited by the entrance of the cafeteria.  A lot of girls were looking at her.  "Hey, is it true your dating Cameron Watts?" One girl asked.  This girl was obviously older, probably a sophomore.  Anna was about to say no when she heard in her ear, "Play it off.  You don't have to lie, but work with it."  "Well, we haven't made it official or anything yet.  But as far as we know, yep", Anna said with a wink.  The girls all walked away, mesmorized.  "Ooooh, that was good Ann.  That was pure Lily."  "Thanks", Anna whispered to her.  "Anna?" Cameron asked.  "Hey Cameron."  "Who are you talking to?"  "Uh, myself."  "Anna, what are you thinking?  You better add something witty!" Stormy instructed.  "I actually have this little guy in my head named Giorgio and I always ask if he approves of my outfits."  Cameron laughed, "You're crazy."  "Who's to say I wasn't?"  "Add in a hair flip", Stormy whispered.  That was easy for Anna.  She had practiced it many times in the mirror and had seen it mastered by Lily whenever she flirted.  Anna flipped her long blonde hair.  "So, am I still to grace you and your friends with my presence?"  "If you'd like to", Cameron said, but it sounded more like he was asking her to, thinking there was a possibility she'd say no.  "Lie and say you've had other offers", Stormy said.  "Well dear Cameron, I've had many other offers for lunch.  A few senior guys who were to die for asked me to eat with them. But I said no, 'I'm sitting with Cameron Watts.'"  Cameron smiled, "Well, I'm really glad you turned them down." What would Lily say? "Yes, but next time you may not be so lucky, Cameron."

 

While Cameron went and got his and Anna's lunch, Anna went ahead and sat with the populars.  "Hey everyone."  Everyone looked up, somewhat alarmed.  Anna knew they weren't expecting to see her again at their table.  "Where's Cameron?" Amber asked, as if she was his mother.  "He's getting his lunch."  "And mine", Stormy whispered.  "Oh, and mine", Anna added.  Amber looked at Anna, "Oh, he's getting your lunch, as in buying it?"  "Yep."  Anna grew very uncomfortable as she noticed Amber shooting death glares at her.  "So, you two are together?"  "Don't lie with Amber.  They're friends so she'll know if you're lying.  Or she may ask him later", Stormy instructed.  "No, we're not  dating.  He's just a really nice guy."  "Awww, well that's so cute", Leah said, "he's leading you around school like a lost little puppy.  How nice of him."  Amber and Tanya both starting cracking up, Leah just smiled at her nasty comment.  "What are you, stupid?  You can't let her get away with that one", Stormy said.  Anna smiled sweetly, "Yeah, kinda like what Amber did for you when you first moved here in 6th grade.  In case your forgetting, that was before your nose job."  Kyle and Jerry starting cracking up and saying things like, "Dang, new girl got you" and, "I always knew your nose wasn't real."  Anna heard Stormy cracking up in her ear, "You have more Lil in you then I thought."  Amber, Tanya and Leah all sat with their mouths hanging open in unison.  "Was it before your boob job?" Amber asked.  Her friends started fake-laughing, for they knew Anna's comment had been funnier.  Anna rolled her eyes, "Yeah, I wear an A, if you want to say someone got a boob job, they need one thing.  Oh right, that would be boobs."  The guys started laughing more and more at Anna's comebacks, so Amber just stopped trying.

 

There were two empty seats, one by Amber and one by Anna.  As he was coming over, Anna wondered who he'd choose to sit with.  She knew Amber was thinking the same.  "If Cameron sits with you, he likes you.  If he sits by Amber, that means she still can cast a spell on him", Stormy said.  Cameron went and sat down by Anna.  "Here's your lunch."  "Thanks."  Amber was fuming.  "So, what have I missed?" Cameron asked.  "Anna was showing us what a comedian she is", Jerry said.  Cameron smiled, "Isn't she awesome."  "Yeah, I nearly jumped out of my chair when I saw she was sitting with us today", Amber said sarcastically.  Anna glared right back at Amber.  "Put your arm around Cameron", Stormy told her.  "I can't", Anna whispered.  "What?" Tanya asked.  Anna started laughing, "I was talking to Giorgio."  "Who's Giorgio?" Amber asked.  "Inside joke", Anna and Cameron both said in unison.  "Come on, do it.  Guys don't care.  Lily used to put her arm around any hot guy, even if that girl just met him.  Besides, Amber needs to know that you're tough.  Now that war's been waged between you, you cannot back down or you'll show weakness.  Lil explained it to me once", Stormy said.  Anna put her right arm around Cameron's back. Stormy was right, Cameron didn't care.  But Amber obviously did.

 

After lunch Anna went to meet Stormy behind the dumpsters, but Amber stopped her.  Standing on both sides of Amber were Tanya and Lily, looking fierce.  "How may I help you?" Anna asked.  "Stop this 'I'm so sweet' game, Anna.  We know you're evil.  Should have known, she did learn from the best.  If only I had had the evil queen herself, Lily Smitt, as my sister", Amber said.  "First of all, don't talk about Lily, ever again.  Got that?  I know you've always been a bit slow.  Secondly, why do you care?  It's not like Cameron's your man."  Amber rolled her eyes, "In middle school I couldn't date Cameron.  As I'm sure you know, I only dated high school guys.  Middle school men were so juvenile.  Anyway, I had always planned to get with Cameron once we were both in high school."  "Ask her why you should care", Stormy said.  "Why should I give a crap?"  "Because, it's been planned."  "Uh yeah, by you.  Obviously not him."  Amber leaned in closer, "It's only the third day of school and already you want to go on the list?"  "Oooh, the list.  Omg, I'm so scared.  What are you going to do to me almighty one?"  Stormy laughed, "Good job."  Amber leaned in even closer, "I can make the next four years of your life hell.  I mean, it would only be four years of this hell, but the damages will last you a lifetime.  The emotional scars.  Twenty years from now you'll lie in bed and cry yourself to sleep at night from the hell you were put through."  "First of all Amber, you need a tick-tack or some kind of mint gum.  Don't get all up in people's faces when you just had garlic pasta for lunch."  Amber took a step back.  "Show her you aren't scared", Stormy said.  "Second of all, two can play at this game.  Unlike other girls, I'm not scared of you.  I remember back in middle school how all the girls idolized you, it was disgusting.  Now I'm not going to back down and I'm most definitely not about to start kissing your butt.  Unlike Leah and Tanya, I don't think I'd like the taste of it."  Anna walked out of the cafeteria.  She knew she was no longer the same loser from middle school.

 

Anna walked up behind the cafeteria to Stormy, "Well?"  Stormy hugged her, "You were Lil reincarnated."  Anna clapped her hands, "Yes!"  "However, the task will be harder now Anna."  "What do you mean."  "You just butted heads with Amber Dane, the one your sister had appointed to take over when she left." "Wait a sec, Lily appointed Amber Dane?  Why didn't she appoint me?"  "Um, Lily loved you.  You know that.  But when I suggested you to her she just laughed and said you didn't have what it took to be an alpha."  "I could have been omega!"  "No, Lil said she knew you respected yourself too much to be a good omega to Amber."  Lily shook her head, "I can't believe it.  My own sister allowed me be a dork."  "Don't be mad."  "Mad's an understatement Stormy." 

 

Stormy could tell Anna was angry.  "Come on Anna, that was a long time ago and it's beside the point now. Listen, you've just screwed yourself, big time."  "What!  I did?  What kind of popularity consultant are you?  Why didn't you stop me?  Why did you encourage for me to go on?"  Stormy smiled, "Anna, Anna, Anna.  I'm seeing something here.  Who needs Amber Dane?  She's so middle school, right?"  "Please, girls still kiss her butt twenty-four-seven."  "And soon they'll be kissing yours.  You can start your own popularity clique, and you'll be the alpha this time."  "Alpha?  I just had lunch for the first time in my life with the populars yesterday and you think I can be an alpha?  Like Amber?  And people call me crazy."  "You can and will be an alpha.  You want popularity, right?"  "Uh, let me think, yeah!  Why do you think I'm paying you?"  "Well then, we need a birth of a nation. A whole new set of populars."  "So I have to find a group of girls cooler then Tanya and Leah?  Storm, that's not possible."  "Wow Ann, you may have been Lil's sister, but I certainly learned a lot more from her then you did.  You won't seek cooler girls, you'll take Amber's."  "What?  Are you on drugs?"  Stormy shrugged, "Not today."  "Stormy, they hate me.  Hate as in they want me dead.  I totally dissed Leah's nose.  You don't go from dissing noses to becoming friends." Stormy shook her head, "Sometimes I think you're dumber then dumb.  Where's Lil when you need her?  Don't worry, I'll take care of it all."

 

After lunch Anna went to see Sarah.  Sarah was sitting by this group of artsy kids.  They looked a bit freaky to Anna.  "Hey Sarah."  Sarah looked up, "Oh, you, guys this is Anna."  They looked up at her, "Sup?"  "Not much.  Sarah, I can talk to you for a sec?"  Sarah stood, "Talk."  "Um, in private, please?"  They started walking, "What do you need?" Sarah asked.  "Look.  I don't want to fight.  I'm really sorry."  Sarah nodded, "Continue."  "It isn't fair that you expect me to only be friends with you.  I'm in high school and I'm just trying to find my way.  I never planned to ditch you, I just wanted to expand a bit.  What if something ever happened to you?  Where would I be?  For the past nine years I've only had one friend.  And I'm not saying that was bad.  I loved that Sarah.  Once I finally got a cell phone, I always knew it was you calling for me.  We've done so many things together.  Remember when we built that telescope in fourth grade?"  Sarah nodded, "I remember.  You thought it was boring." "Yeah, I did, but you loved it.  And once it was made and I looked into the sky, I realized that I loved it too.  And when dad and Lily died, man I was a wreck.  If I hadn't been for you, I wouldn't have made it Sarah."  Sarah hugged Anna, "I know what you mean.  I'm sorry for making you feel like you couldn't have any other friends.  But look at you, you're gorgeous and funny, if you wanted to be popular you could be.  You were Lily's sister.  Popularity's in your blood.  You don't need my friendship, not like I've needed yours."  Anna hugged her friend back, "I do need your friendship.  And BTW, you're a great friend.  I hope you didn't think I didn't know that."  Sarah shrugged, "I don't know.  I'm really sorry Anna."  "It's okay.  Oh, and hey, I saw you had quite the group of friends around you as well, missy."  Sarah smiled, "They're really cool people.  They're so accepting. Also, did you see the one with the blonde hair?" "Yeah."  "Isn't he hot?"  Anna took a look, he was no Cameron Watts, that was for sure. But Anna looked at how Sarah smiled at him and said, "Heck yes.  Girl, if you don't snatch him up, I definitely will."  Sarah laughed, "You're a bad liar."  Anna laughed too.  Great, now Sarah's my friend again.  Who knows?  Maybe she can become my omega.  Or now that she has new friends, I may not have to worry.

 

Chapter 7:

 

Anna decided the next morning to go into Lily's room and take out her entire wardrobe, dresses, jeans, tops, shoes, everything!  "What in the world are you doing?" Judy asked.  "I'm taking her clothes."  "Did I say you could?"  "Why not mom? Do you not want me to look as good as Lily always did?  Is that it?"  "No, that is not it.  But your stealing her clothes."  "Oh right, let me call her real quick for permission."  Anna dialed Lily's number, then hung up.  "Sorry mom, number's been disconnected." 

 

Anna decided to wear a white and black checkered dress of Lily's with red pumps.  She tied it all off with a red headband.  Judy was drinking her coffee, "Jeff's here, so I'm leaving."  "You look interesting." "What's that supposed to mean?"  "It means, it's not you Anna.  That's a Lily outfit.  You've never  dressed like that before.  Which is why you're going to Dr. Carlson's office after school.  I already told Jeff to drop you off there."  "How am I supposed to get home from there?"  "I'll pick you up."  "Mom, no!  I'm not going back to her office.  We talked about this, I'm fine."  "Fine?  You're being disrespectful beyond words and pretending to be Lily.  Hm, sounds like a whack-job to me."  "The only whack-job is you.  Why don't you make an appointment with a therapist?"  Before Judy could respond, Anna ran out the door. 

 

Anna slided into the car, "Hey Sarah, hey Jeff."  Sarah couldn't help laughing.  "Why are you dressed like that Anna?"  "What's that supposed to mean?"  "Um, it means you look like a Lily Smitt clone."  Anna was about to tell her to shut up, but decided not to.  She better play careful, things were still rocky between she and Sarah.  "I think it looks cool, Sarah.  And if I don't talk about your clothes, you shouldn't talk about mine."  "I agree", Jeff added, "besides, I think Anna looks pretty today."  "Eww Jeff, she's like three years younger then you."  The two of them started fighting, so Anna started tuning them out.  Anna had a lot more to think about.  What's Stormy thinking? I can't start my own group of populars.  I'm already in too deep as it is.  What was I thinking?  How could I be so stupid as to actually disrespect the Amber Dane.  Man, I'm about to go right back to being a loser.  Dang.  

 

Anna got to school, "See you later Sarah."  "Hey wait, want to sit with my friends today?" Anna immediately looked down, "Um, I kinda promised Cameron and his friends I'd sit with them.  But hey, want to sit with my friends?"  Sarah smirked, "I wouldn't like those people Ann."  "Hey, that's so mean.  You don't even know them, yet you aren't willing to give them a chance?  I never knew you to be that kind of person Sarah."  "Ok, ok, I'll sit with you and your friends."  Anna hugged Sarah, "Yay!  I'm so happy."  "Yeah yeah."  "Ok Sarah, meet me in front of the cafeteria before lunch.  Ok?"  "Yep, see you then."

 

In Mr. Barles class Anna went and took her seat by Cameron.  "Hey Cameron."  "Hey Anna.  I wanted to talk to you about something."  "So talk."  Anna didn't know where she had gotten that commanding attitude from all of a sudden, but she liked it. "Amber said you were being mean to her yesterday."  Anna looked at Cameron, "Have you ever known me to be mean?"  "No, not at-".  "How dumb are you?  Amber likes you."  "What?"  "She likes you, that's why she hates me."  Cameron seemed to be thinking and putting it all together in her head.  Anna decided to play the game, "You probably like her."  "What, no way.  I've never liked Amber.  She thinks she's better then everyone and she's so dumb.  She can't talk about politics or anything."  Anna pretended to be disappointed, "It's ok, Cameron.  You don't have to lie to me.  I know you like her." "No, I don't Anna."  "Prove it."  "What do I have to do?"  "Stop talking to her."  "And then?"  "And then I'll know you're not lying.  Think about it.  I'd never date someone who I thought might secretly like someone else."  "So, if I stop talking to her, then we'll date?"  Anna smiled, "You're a smart guy.  I think you know the answer to that question."  If Lily could see me now!  "Ok Anna.  As of right now, I'm no longer talking to Amber."  Anna watched him delete Amber's number out of his phone.  Anna smiled to herself.  She had power over Cameron Watts.   

 

Anna met with Stormy five minutes before lunch, behind the cafeteria.  Anna noticed Stormy's shocked look at Anna's outfit.  "Not a word", Anna told her.  Stormy smiled, "You look nice Anna."  "Thanks.  Now guess what happened?"  "I hate 'guess what questions' Ann, because the person can never guess."  "Ok, I'll tell you.  I saw Cameron in Algebra 1 and I told him that Amber likes him.  Well, he was all like, 'I don't like her, blah, blah, blah.' Well anyway, I pretended like I thought he liked her and that he was just pretending so that he wouldn't hurt me.  Well I told him to prove to me that he doesn't like her."  "How?" Stormy asked.  "I told him he can no longer speak to Amber Dane.  If he stops, I implied I'll date him and that's the only way."  "And? What did he say?"  "He said ok.  He then deleted her number out of his phone."  "Yes", Stormy high-fived Anna.  "Girl, you have power", Stormy complimented. "I know, I'm so excited.  So anyway, what's the plan?"  Stormy went into her composition book, "I have it all written down.  Let me lay it out for you."  Stormy told Anna what to do, and Anna liked what she heard.  After putting the ear plugs into her ears, Anna made her way to the cafeteria.

 

She there saw Sarah, "Hey, ready to eat lunch with the populars?" Sarah shrugged, "Sure."  Anna couldn't help herself, she got out her lip gloss and started putting it on Sarah. "Hey, stop that, what are you doing?" "Making your lips look kissable."  "Why?  Who's supposed to kiss me?  Malibu boy-barbie Cameron?  Dumb as a doorknob Kyle?  Hollywood-hasbeen Jerry?"  Anna couldn't even help laughing at that.  "Ok, you have them down to the T."  Anna's laughter encouraged Sarah to go on, "Or how about Raunchy redhead Amber Dane?  Or Michael Jackson nose Leah?  Or big boca Tanya?"  Anna kept laughing, "Come on, they aren't that bad."  Sarah laughed, "Yeah, we'll see."  Anna took Sarah's hair out of the ponytail and started running her fingers through it.  "I don't know why you wear your hair up.  You have such pretty hair."  "No I don't."  Cameron came up, "Hey."  "Hey, Sarah will be eating with us today."  "She will?" Cameron asked.  "Yeah, she will."  Cameron shrugged, "Ok."  "Now, I'm quite hungry Cameron and so is Sarah here.  Please go get us two salads and Evian water bottles, pronto."  "Sure, sure."  Cameron ran to go do it.  Sarah looked at Anna in unbelief.  "What?" Anna asked.  "Did you see how he ran to do what you told him?"  "Yeah, what about it?"  "It was so weird.  I mean, no offense Ann, but you treated him like a dog."  Anna rolled her eyes, "Guys like that Sarah."  "They like being treated like crap?"  "Yeah.  It makes them like you even more." "Oh." 

 

Anna saw Leah and Tanya walking together.  "Come on."  Sarah followed behind Anna.  "Hey Leah, Tanya", Anna said.  "Can we help you?" Tanya asked.  "Sorry we don't speak loser", Leah said with a laugh.  Anna rolled her eyes, "Leah, where do you get your comments?  Off the back of a cereal box?"  Leah wanted to say something in return, but she just closed her mouth.  "Look guys, I know we got off to a bad start.  But yesterday, I was just unleashing some of the anger I've had towards Amber."  "And we care why?" Tanya asked.  "I see how Amber treats you guys.  The girl's awful to you.  But as your leader, I'd never treat you that way."  "What do you mean, as our leader?" Leah asked.  Anna pretended to looked shock, "What?  Amber never told you?"  "Told us what?" Tanya asked.  "I'm the one Lily appointed.  However, she said Amber would have to reign in middle school.  That way Lily said I'd be able to get the braces off, look prettier and finally reach my full potential.  I think anyone who sees me can tell that I have."  Leah and Tanya just stood there, dumbfounded.  "Wait a minute", Leah said, "you mean to tell me that Amber will not reign this school one day?  But you will?"  "Precisely.  I was Lily's sister, was I not?"  "Man", Tanya said, "I knew it was weird that Lily wouldn't appoint her own sister." "I can't believe what a liar Amber is." 

"What should we do about it?" Leah asked.  "First of all, you have to join my clique as I will be ruling queen.  Otherwise you'll be an ex-popular, a geek.  Second, you need to stop talking and hanging out with Amber Dane."  "Just like that?" Tanya asked.  "Yep, you're quitting Ms. Amber Dane cold turkey."  "Wow, so we won't have to listen to Amber anymore?" Leah asked.  "Nope."  "At least that's a good thing", Tanya said.  "Yeah, do you know she made us go to trials before we could be her friends?" Leah asked.  "What?"  "Yeah", Tanya said, "I had to lose 10 pounds before I could become her friend." Leah, "I wish it had been that easy for me.  I had to get contacts, extensions, and get my teeth whitened.  Not to mention start going to tanning beds.  She thought I was so too sickly-pale, as she called it."  "Wow", Anna said, "I'd never make a friend go through trials.  Right Sarah?"  Sarah looked at Anna.  She couldn't believe what her friend was doing.  "No Ann, I didn't have to go through trials."  "I heard that Amber likes to kill birds for fun", Tanya said.  "Really?" Anna asked wide-eyed.  She knew Tanya was just making up a rumor, she always does, but there was nothing wrong with playing the part."  "Come on, lets go to my new table", Anna said.  "Keep going Anna.  You're doing great", Stormy said.

 

Anna led the way, as Sarah, Leah and Tanya followed her.  They took a seat.  "Kyle, Jerry, please meet my good friend, Sarah."  "Hey Sarah", they both said.  "Hi."  "Where's Amber?" Jerry asked.  "Why should we care?" Anna asked.  Jerry shrugged. Cameron came back with Anna and Sarah's lunches.  "Thank you dear."  Amber walked to the table, "Sorry I'm late guys.  Mrs. Chester kept me after to talk to me about wearing more modest clothing.  She's such a cow.  Anyway, why are you in my seat?" Amber asked Anna.  Anna shrugged, "I don't see your name on it.  Do you guys?" Everyone at the table shook their heads.  "Well, get up."  "Don't get up Ann", Stormy said.  Stormy had told her what to tell Amber.  Stormy even made had made Anna practice it to perfect it.  "Amber, may I speak to you?" 

 

Anna and Amber walked over to a corner. "What's going on?" Amber asked.  "Amber, I see the dawning of a new day in this high school.  Don't you?"  "Excuse me?"  "How do I say this.  You're out, old-school, dried up.  Everyone agrees that I'm cooler.  Which is why you're out, understand?"  "What do you mean?  You can't just say I'm out and I'm out."  "Are you forgetting whose sister I am?  Trust me, I can.  Soon Cameron Watts will be my official boyfriend, and then I'll definitely reign.  Now I could make this easy.  Just quietly kick your butt out.  That would be the best option.  Or Amber, I could make this drastic and dramatic.  There'd be blood and countless tears, you'll be the one crying them of course.  So, which one shall you choose Ms. Dane?"  Amber was about to say something, but didn't.  She just instead walked out.  She didn't stomp though or cuss, as Anna thought she would.  No, Amber Dane was full of class. 

 

Anna took a seat back.  They all had a lot of fun.  Leah and Tanya kept complimenting Anna and how pretty she was.  At first they turned up their noses at Sarah, but when they saw how much Anna liked her, they started being nice to Sarah too.  After lunch Anna went to leave, but Sarah caught up with her.  "Hey Sarah, did you like my friends?"  "Um, they were being really nice to me."  "Told you they would."  "But I'm concerned a bit."  "About what?"  "Um, you totally lied to Leah and Tanya back there.  Lily never appointed you.  You know that.  So why'd you lie?"  Anna smiled and put her arm around Sarah's shoulders.  "Walk with me, talk with me.  You see Sarah, sometimes you have to tell little white lies in order to get what you want.  Surely you don't find that wrong, do you?"  "Well-."  "Sarah, I'm starting my own group of populars.  And guess what?"  "What?"  "You'll be my omega."  "What?  Like Stormy was to Lily?  Like Leah is to Amber?  Like some kinda sidekick to compliment you all the time and say 'yes master' to whatever you say?"  Anna laughed, "Oh stop.  Not like that.  You'll just be my favorite friend.  Ok?"  Sarah shrugged, "Will I still be able to hang out with my other friends?"  Anna rolled her eyes, "Oh yes, the creepy kids from the art program.  Sarah, we're talking popularity here.  You deserve a lot better then those kids."  Sarah looked down, "If you say so."  "Come on, have I ever steered you wrong?"  "I guess not."  "Good.  Then smile and be thankful you have a best friend that watches out for you."

 

Anna sat in Dr. Lisa Carlson's office.  She was in a comfortable green leather chair.  The entire office was lime green.  Dr. Carlson said it gave the clients a more peaceful feeling.  Anna didn't feel peace, she felt tension.  Dr. Carlson took a seat in her chair, directly across from Anna.  Dr. Carlson was a very successful psychologist.  She specialized in dealing with teenage girls, and had written four books already.  She was a chubby woman with black curly hair.  She wore "Sarah Palin glasses" and a business suit.  From what Anna observed, she was most likely pushing forty years old.  Yet she's an expert on teens?  She was a teen like a kajillion years ago.  Everything's different now.  What a joke. 

 

"You look pretty today", Dr. Carlson complimented.  "Thanks."  "So, how's high school going so far?"  "Uh, it's good."  "Are you making lots of friends?" "Yeah, quite a few."  "Well that's a good thing."  "So, how's you and your mom's relationship going?"  "It sucks."  "Oh."  "Dr. Carlson, can we talk about something else."  "Oh, sure, sure.  Whatever you want to talk about Anna, we can.  Whether it be drugs, drinking, boys."  Anna rolled her eyes at the thought of discussing such things with Dr. Carlson.  "No thank you to those topics.  I'm fine when it comes to that, say no to all three.  Um, I want to talk about power." Dr. Carlson frowned, "Power?" "Yeah, power."  Dr. Carlson quickly started going through her notes. Anna shook her head.  They call her an expert?  She doesn't even know how to respond to the topic of power.  All teenage girls want power to some degree.  Just another quack I see, an expensive quack at that.  "Hm, I don't seem to have power in my notes.  But go on, and I'll try my best to follow along." "I really want power.  You know?  Like in my school.  I've always been the dorky sister, The Other Boleyn Girl of some sorts.  Lily was a legend.  She was so popular.  She ruled.  Girls would pray at nigth to God that they could just be talked to by her.  I want that Dr. Carlson."  

 

Dr. Carlson went on a speel about "feeling good about yourself" and "popularity doesn't matter."  Anna had heard all that crap before free of charge.  "You know Anna, I was never the most popular."  "No!  Really?" "I know, it's hard to believe, hunh", Dr. Carlson said oblivious to Anna sarcasm.  "I was really never really popular Anna, but look at me now.  I live in a very expensive condo, I drive a jaguar, I take trips to Rome and Paris, I've written books, I've lived quite the life."  Anna thought about Dr. Carlson.  True, she was successful, yet she had no husband, no kids and she highly doubted this woman had friends. "What about friends?"Anna asked.  Dr. Carlson shrugged, "I've been a loner my whole life.  I don't really think friends are a necessity.  But I know many girls your age do."  

 

Anna walked out of the office and got into her mom's car.  "Hey, how was it?" Judy asked.  "I hope you get a refund."  Anna and her mother spent the rest of the car ride home in silence. 

 

Chapter 8:

 

For the next month Anna was beginning to rule the school.  Even senior girls talked to her.  Everyone knew Anna Smitt.  Anna had started to go steady with Cameron, without Judy knowing of course.  Anna had even recruited two new girls into her clique.  One was a girl named Bri who was pretty, yet a total airhead.  The other one was Dara who was gorgeous, and evil.  Stormy continued to consult Anna, but not every day anymore.  Anna just met with her once a week to ask for her guidance in leading.  As for Amber, Amber had started hanging out with somewhat cool kids.  But they had nothing on Anna and her friends.  Sarah was still in the clique, and Anna had given Sarah some of Lily's old clothes. 

 

Anna went to her mom's elementary school after she got out of high school. Cameron's driver of their limo gave her a ride there.  Anna walked into her mom's classroom.  Judy taught 1st graders.  Judy wasn't allowed to be Anna's 1st grade teacher, yet Anna would always go next door to her mom's classroom.   Judy was sitting at her desk, grading spelling tests.  "Hey mom."  "Hey", her mom replied, "what are you doing here?"  "Um, I have something to ask you."  "What?"  "You know my good friend, Cameron Watts?"  "Yeah, the one who's constantly calling for you?"  "Yeah, that's him."  "What about him?"  "Well, he's having this huge Halloween party.  Like everyone's going.  So I was wondering if I could go.  It's this Friday.  I could then sleep over at Sarah's aftewards." "I don't know Ann", Judy said getting up from her desk and picking up toys and crayons off the floor.  "Why not?" Anna asked.  "Well, I don't know anything about Cameron.  I don't know anything about his family, where he lives."  "Mom, how do you not know the Watts family?  His dad owns like casinos, hotels in Europe, restaurants here and in Los Angeles.  They're like multi-millionares, so they don't have neighbors.  They live in a place call Watts Hill."  "Oooh, Watts Hill.  Very fancy.  Anna, you always go trick-or-treating with Sarah. Why would you want to break that tradition." Anna shook her head, "Mom, that's so lame.  I'm fourteen now.  If you're still going trick-or-treating in high school, you're a total loser."  "Well-."  "Come on.  You used to always let Lily go to parties."  "Fine, you can go.  But you're sure you can spend the night at Sarah's?"  "Yeah, I already got the okay from her." "Fine then." Anna hugged her mom, "Yes!  I love you so much mom.  Thank you." 

 

Anna invited her clique over after dinner that night.  The six of them sat in her room discussing what they should be for Halloween.  "So, like, what should we be?" Bri asked, "Because I was totally thinking we could be like those space ship people.  Um, what's that word?"  "Astronauts", everyone replied in unbelief of how dumb Bri was.  "Oooh, or we could be superheroes", Sarah said.  "Superheroes?  That's retarded", Leah responded.  They all looked to see what Anna would say, "Sarah, we are a bit old for superheroes.  Let's not do anything dorky, k?"  Sarah rolled her eyes, "Whatever."  Anna whispered, so that her mom couldn't hear, "The entire high school's going to this party guys.  Everyone who's anyone will be there.  The fact that we even got an invite is miraculous.  But we can't just show up.  We need to make a bam entrance guys.  We need to show them that the Annettes have arrived."  "Annettes?" Sarah asked.  "I've decided that will become our clique's name." "Oooh", the girls chorused, "we love it."  Sarah was the only one not to compliment it.  "Got a problem with the name I've chosen?" Anna asked.  Sarah rolled her eyes, "I have a lot of problems with you Anna."  Anna couldn't believe her.  What an ungrateful female dog.  After all I've done for her she has the nerve to say she has problems with me?  I have problems with her.  I have problems with the way she looks and acts.  "I know what we'll be", Anna exclaimed.  "What, what?" All the girls asked.  "Fairies gone bad.  Like, we'll wear short ripped up costumes.  It'll be great."  Everyone clapped their hands in excitement.  "That's almost as good as my idea to be astronuts", Bri replied.  Everyone just looked at her.  "It's astronauts", Anna corrected. 

 

"Um, yeah, hate to be the bearer of bad news", Sarah replied, "but who's paying for this and who's making these costumes? None of us can sew and I definitely can't pay for all of your costumes."  Tanya rolled her eyes, "Ugh, Americans are so stupid.  Are you forgetting who my mother is?  She's the world famous fashion designer, Evita Carmen Teresa Almana Carusia Sorondo.  Anna and Sarah looked at Tanya confused.  "You don't know who she is?" Leah asked.  "She's a famous fashion designer", Dara said, "her clothes are beyond expensive, but totally worth every penny."  "My mom has a $2200 coat that you're mother designed.  She won't let us go near it", Bri added.  "You're mother actually spent over two thousand dollars on a coat?" Sarah asked.  Tanya looked offended, "A coat?  A Evita Carmen Teresa-." "Yeah yeah, I heard the super long name Tanya", Sarah said.  Anna's eyes got huge.  She looked at Sarah in disbelief.  She knew if she wanted her clique to remain, she'd have to keep the peace, somehow.  "Of course, I know who your mother is.  I just drew a blank.  Yeah, I love her clothes.  They're to die for", Anna complimented.  Tanya smiled, "Thanks Anna.  Anyway, my mother can totally make our costumes.  And of course I'll charm her into doing it free of charge." Anna gave Tanya a hug, "Yes, that's awesome Tanya.  Thank you."  Tanya smiled, "What can I say?"  Sarah gave the entire clique a look of disgust, "Could you have your mom make mine a little bit longer then the rest.  Unlike other teenaged girls, I don't use Halloween to dress like a skank."  "Are you calling us skanks?" Dara demanded.  Sarah rolled her eyes, "No, not at all."  

 

After the measurements for the costume had been taken and all the girls left, Sarah was still over.  Sarah went through Anna's fridge, "Where's all the food?"  "Yeah, better question.  What the hell is wrong with you?  Do you want me to lose my girls?"  Sarah rolled her eyes, "Oh right, your girls, your Annettes as you call them." "Hey, you're an Annette too, don't forget that Sarah."  "Please, I would never worship you the way those dummies do.  Man, you sure know how to pick them Anna.  You have one friend, Leah, who's a brat.  Tanya with the world famous fashion designer mom and the biggest mouth in the world.  Bri, who thinks spaceship guys are called astronuts.  And let us not forget Dara, the one who wears skirts so short she looks like she's in underwear."  "Hey, I picked you didn't I?  The unattractive, cynical, ungrateful, meanest female dog in town!"  Sarah laughed, "Anna, you're losing it." "Losing it?  At least I'm playing it smart.  You're so dumb Sarah.  You finally have popularity.  It's in your hands.  You're my best friend in the world.  Do you know how many girls want to be my best friend?  Do you have any idea even?"  Sarah crossed her arms, "I miss the old Anna.  She was my best friend.  I don't even know who you are anymore Anna.   Do you even know who you are?"  "Yeah, I do.  I'm Anna Smitt, the same old Anna just with popularity now."  "And that really changed you Anna." "Well, I'm sorry you feel that way.  But I won't apologize for improving myself."  Jeff's car pulled up into the driveway, "Who the hell said anything about improvement Anna?"  Anna looked down.  "I gotta go, I'll see you later", Sarah said.  "Bye." 

 

Anna went upstairs and went into her bedroom.  Sarah's crazy.  What does she mean I'm losing it?  I'm still Anna Smitt, aren't I?  I haven't changed that much.  I'm just prettier, and skinnier and have a ton of friends and a super hot boyfriend.  That doesn't mean anything.  I know.  Sarah's just jealous over my power.  They're all jealous - that's it!  Anna jumped back and let out a little scream.  She quickly looked back in the mirror and took a deep breath again.  Anna may have been the one looking into the mirror, but it was Lily looking back at her.

 

Chapter 9:

 

The day of Halloween approached them all.  That night Anna was up in her room getting ready for the party.  The party started at 8:00 and went all night long, (which Anna's mother didn't know).  Anna and Sarah had already made their plan, Anna's mom would think she was spending the night at Sarah's and Sarah's parents would think she was spending the night at Anna's.  Anna hated lying to her mom, but she knew her mom wouldn't let her go to an all-night party.  Cameron's parents were cool.  His father was always out of town, and his 25 year old stepmom liked to party just as much as high school kids. 

 

Anna was the fire fairy, which of course grabbed the most attention.  It was a bright red sparkly ensemble.  Her makeup was even more amazing.  She had face-painted onto her face fire designs, and was wearing red eye makeup.  Her mother entered the room.  Anna's mom knocked on the door.  "One sec."  Anna grabbed her bathrobe and put it on.  She knew if her mom saw how short it was, she wouldn't be leaving the home.  "Come in."  Her mom walked in, "Interesting makeup", Judy said.  "Thanks."  Anna put red streaks in her hair.  "Does that wash out?" Judy asked.  "Of course it washes out mom."  "Well, I have to step out.  Who's taking you again?"  "Stormy's picking me up."  "Oh, ok."  "Wait, where are you going?" "The elementary school is having a fall festival.  And as the school's favorite teacher, I'm expected to be there."  Anna gave her mom a hug, "Well have lots of fun." 

 

Stormy honked her horn. Anna was glad her mom was gone so that she wouldn't have to wear a coat out.  She got into Stormy's car.  "Sweet costume", Stormy said.  "Thanks."  Stormy was dressed as Snow White, yet a skankier version of her.  The dress was all ripped up.  "You look cute", Anna complimented.  "Thanks." "So Storm, what's the mission tonight?"  "Hm, tonight's purpose is to be seen.  Be loud and proud.  Make yourself noticed.  Dance a lot, talk a lot, but by no means eat a lot."  Anna nodded, "Okay."  "Flirt delvishly with senior guys in front of their girlfriends.  That'll show them that you have spunk."  Anna nodded, "Alright."  "Steer clear from the drugs and alcohol.  You'll end up making a fool out of yourself.  Once in 8th grade Lily and I went to a party where she was throwing back shot glasses.  The girl did a table dance for everyone."  "What?"  "Yeah, I had to drag her out.  Luckily it was my cousin's house we were sleeping over at.  At her house then Lily spent the entire night in the bathroom throwing up.  We were supposed to go to the mall the next day, but she couldn't move."  "Wait, Lily Smitt?  My sister?  She got drunk in 8th grade?" Stormy laughed, "Oh Anna.  If you only knew all the crap that that girl got herself into. Yet she always found a way out, I have to hand that to her.  There was nothing Lily couldn't get herself out of." 

 

They approached the party.  Everyone getting in's name had to be on the list.  "Name please?" The big bald security guard asked them when they approached the house in Stormy's car.  "Stormy Anderson." "Ok, and your name?" He asked Anna.  "I'm Anna Smitt, Cameron's girlfriend."  "I don't care.  I'm just here for the check."  The gates with the letters W & H on them opened and they drove inside.  They got to the door and went in.  The party was already as alive as ever.  Hundreds of teens were scattered all over.  Some were in the back yard, some were chilling by the pool, others were in the different rooms or living room.  "I'm going to go find my boyfriend Trey", Stormy told her.  "Alright, I'll see you."  Anna saw Sarah, Leah, Tanya, Bri and Dara standing by the door.  "Hey guys, you look so good", Anna said.  "Thanks", they all replied.  The girls all then started to compliment Anna and how pretty she was.  Cameron approached them, "Anna." Anna gave him a hug, "Hey honey." Cameron started talking to Anna about how many balloons they put up at the party.  Anna had thougth that Cameron was hot at first, but the more she got to know him, the more she realized how he bugged her.  All she could notice were his bad qualities.  He said 'ugh" and 'um' way too much.  He also was constantly talking about boring things.  Anna interrupted him, she didn't even know or care about what he was saying, "I'm going to go get a drink."  "Should I go too?" Cameron asked, surprised that Anna wasn't ordering him to go get her one.  "No", Anna quickly replied, "babe, if we start spending too much time together we'll get bored of each other.  We'll start acting like an old married couple at this age.  Now we don't want to spoil a good thing, do we?"  "I guess not."  "Right.  So I'll be back, eventually.  Just go say hi to some of your friends."  Cameron shrugged and went off.  Anna took a deep breath and felt relief at the fact that he was finally leaving her alone.

 

She tried to use Stormy's advice.  She flirted with many senior guys.  If their girl friends were there, they wouldn't tell her to stop.  They would just stand there in silence and pray that their boyfriends weren't falling in love with Anna.  Anna also danced with many different guys.  Anna had always been blessed with being a good dancer.  She just had great ryhthem.  Sarah on the other hand was a nightmare.  She looked like she was having a stroke or something when she danced.  It was a major turnoff to all of the guys.  In exception to Sarah, all of the Annettes were making Anna proud.   They were all gorgeous.  Girls kissed up to them and guys flocked to them.  Even airhead Bri had quite the pull.  Anna knew she was in control.  There were about 600 kids at the party.  Some didn't even go to the school, but were there anyway.  There were even some college guys who were friends of Cameron's 17 year old sister, Natalie.  

 

At around 2 in the morning Amber made her way towards the Annettes.  Amber was wearing a french maid costume with fishnet stockings.  And Anna thought her costume was inappropiate!  "Nice seeing you again", Amber practically spit at them.  "Who's she?" Bri asked.  Amber rolled her eyes, "Amber Dane.  And I know who you are.  Bottle-blonde ditz Bri."  Sarah had to try her best not to laugh at that.  Anna rolled her eyes at Sarah and turned towards Amber, "What's the matter Amber?  Jealous? You shouldn't have your face all crunched up like that, might cause wrinkles." All the girls laughed at Anna's joke.  "Nice outfit Anna.  Tell me, did you stuff with pudding packets or water balloons?"  Anna laughed, "I'm old-fashioned, I use bubble wrap."  "Really?" Bri asked, "Get out!  I use bubble wrap too!" Anna shook her head in shame at how dumb Bri was.  Amber laughed, "Offense intended, this chick's an idiot."  "I'd be nicer if I were you Amber.  Who knows?  Perhaps you can be one of my silent worshippers from afar.  If you play your cards right, I may let you eat lunch with me some time when we're seniors."  "Please, if I were to eat lunch with you I'd lose my lunch."  "Nice costume Amber, you look like a three cent hooker.  No, you actually look like a free one!"  All of the Annettes and other girls surrounding them cracked up at Anna's jokes.  Amber sauntered away. 

 

Bri looked down, "She's not very ladylike."  "Don't let her get to you Bri.  I don't want any of you to be affected by that wannabe.  She's an ex-popular, meaning she's no more then a piece of trash.  Got it?"  The girls nodded.  "Now look, you're all doing great.  I've never been more proud of you all.  You're giving the Annettes a great name.  Now Tanya, I know you have a large appetite, but watch yourself.  You're eating a lot and that worries me. I've noticed you're starting to gain some weight.  Now there's nothing wrong with being a little bootylicious, but not that bootylicious.  Ok?"  Tanya nodded, her face reddening.  "Back to the damn diet." Sarah looked at Anna in disbelief at what her friend had just said to Tanya.  Anna continued with her analyzation, "Leah, you're doing perfect as always.  Dara, you're spreading gossip about our competition, good.  Spread more.  Bri, you have guys eating out of the palm of your hands.  Keep acting dumb, they like it."  Bri smiled happily, "Thanks Anna.  I wasn't even acting, that's how good at it I am."  Anna nodded, "Yeah.  Um, Sarah, don't dance.  Or flirt.  You're doing pretty awful actually.  You're eating way too much food, you're a total spaz on the dance floor, you can't flirt and no one really likes you.  Now you've never been the prettiest, as I'm sure you know, but try to work what you have."  "And what would that be master Anna?" Sarah asked.  "You're humor.  You can always make people laugh."  "One jester coming right up", Sarah said, rolling her eyes.

 

At around 5 in the morning more people were starting to chill out.  Not many were dancing, and some teens were passed out on the dance floor from all of the drugs they had taken.  Amber came up to Anna, "Hey Anna." "Hey Amber.  What do you want?"  Amber put her hand to her heart, "I feel horrible about how I've treated you."  "You do?" Anna asked. "Yeah, I mean, please don't ever tell anyone this."  "I won't", Anna quickly replied.  She crossed her fingers as she said that, she thought about the juicy gossip she was about to receive.  "I'm actually quite jealous of you."  Anna looked in shock, "What?  You're jealous of me?"  "I mean, you're so beautiful and smart.  I'm such a wannabe in comparison with you."  Anna could even see tears forming in Amber's eyes.  "No you're not!" Anna reassured her.  She gave Amber a hug, "You're so pretty Amber.  I'm the wannabe.  I'm sorry, hey, how about you joining my clique?  You can be a Annette."  Amber broke away from her hug, "Really?  You mean it Anna?"  "Of course."  Amber wiped at the tears, "That's so nice of you.  Want to go get a drink with me?"  "Ok." 

 

Anna and Amber walked up to the drinks table.  Amber reached for a glass and starting mixing a drink.  "Wait, that kind of drink?" Anna asked.  "Of course, what kind of drink did you think I was talking about?"  "Um, Amber, I'm not really into this kind of stuff", Anna whispered. "Wait, you mean that Anna Smitt, an alpha, has never had alcohol?" Amber said especially loud.  Anna panicked as she saw high school kids start looking at her and whispering things like, "What a goody-goody."  "What? No.  Of course I've had alcohol."  "Well, then take a drink", Amber offered to her.  "Come on Anna, I mixed this with you in mind.  I call it Long Live The Anna", Amber said with a sweet smile.  Everyone toasted their beer bottles and glasses to that, "Long Live The Anna." Anna took the glass and started downing it.  It was a strange, yet sweet taste.  It was a bit too strong.  She choked it down.  She started to feel woozy.  "Surely you'll have another, right Anna?" Amber asked.  Anna shrugged, "I suppose another couldn't hurt." 

 

So the drinking fest begun, Anna started downing drinks, the entire time Amber offering her more and more.

 

Chapter 10:

 

Anna woke up, it was light outside and the clock on the wall read 10:50a.m.  Sarah was sitting by her. Anna sat up, she was in Cameron's living room by a bunch of other teenagers.  Sarah was sitting against the wall.  "Where am I" Sarah looked down at Anna, "Can you move?"  Anna stood, "Yeah", she moaned.  Sarah walked Anna upstairs to Cameron's bathroom.  "Here, put on your change of clothes", Sarah told her.  Anna took off her costume and got into her jeans and shirt.  "What happened last night?" Anna moaned.  "What happened?  Hm, what did happen.  Oh right.  I went off doing my comedy act on some guys.  Well, I leave for one second and come back to see you running around saying things like, "I'm Mrs. Blorlando Ooom."  "I didn't!" "You did.  You were wasted out of your mind.  All of your Annettes bailed on you, by the way.  So Stormy and I had to drag you up the stairs where you threw up in this bathroom."  "You did?"  "Yeah, we did.  We then dragged you back down the stairs and laid you down on the carpet."  "Where's Stormy?"  "She went to go get some breakfast.  She said she'd be back my around eleven to pick us up.  She's going to take us both home."  Anna nodded, "Oh my God, my head feels like it's about to explode."  Sarah shook her head.  "Where's Amber?" Anna whispered, holding her head.  "Ah, the one who kept shoving drinks down your throat?  Yeah, Stormy and her got into a fight, like an actualy fist fight.  Stormy of course kicked her skinny behind and Amber left with a few older guys. I don't really give a damn where she went with them."  "Me either", Anna groaned, "oh, she was being so nice.  She said she felt bad for being mean to me." Sarah smirked, "Yes, she felt so bad for you.  This was just her way of apologizing I'm sure."  "What a bitch", Anna said.  "Yeah, I agree", Sarah said.  Anna washed her face. "You look like a crap", Sarah told her.  "Thanks."

 

Stormy came back and picked them up.  "I'll bring you home first Sarah."  Stormy wouldn't even look at Anna.  The entire time Anna had to hear crap from Sarah.  "What were you thinking?  You're so stupid. You actually took a drink.  So that's it Anna?  Being cool means that much to you?"  It was a twenty minute lecture all the way to Sarah's house.  "Can I call you later?" Anna groaned.  "Hell no!" Sarah shouted before slamming the car door. 

 

Anna climbed into the front seat.  Stormy kept driving.  "I'm really sorry Stormy.  Do you hate me?" "You disobeyed me.  Why should I give you guidance if you won't listen to a thing I say?  I told you no drugs or alcohol.  Look at you, you made a complete fool out of yourself.  I've never been so ashamed.  Lil would have been ashamed."  Anna started crying, "Every, everyone was drinking.  And they were calling me a goody-goody.  And I want to be cool so badly that I just, I just drank.  And I know peer pressure isn't an excuse and I've heard all of that "just say no" bull in the past."  Stormy stopped pulled into a park.  "Wanna go for a walk?"  Anna nodded, "Yeah."

 

Stormy and Anna walked through the park.  "What are we doing here?"Anna asked.  "You ask way too many questions", Stormy replied.  "I heard you kicked Amber's butt."  Stormy laughed, "Yeah, I did."  "Thanks, that means a lot to me."  "It's cool.  You know, I was a bit hard on you.  You're right Anna.  It is not easy to say no to peer pressure.  When I was popular it was so hard for me.  Because you have that crave to be cool, and staying in becomes a constant struggle.  I did all kinds of things I wasn't ok with because Lil thought it was cool.  I've tried drugs, alcohol, shoplifiting, smoking, you name it - I've done it."  "Did Lily experiment with all of these things with you?"  Stormy laughed, "Maybe alchohol, but no.  She never stole, never tried drugs, never smoked cigarettes.  She'd give some lame excuse, like 'My mother will smell the smoke on me'.  So I was always the one trying crazy things for her entertainment."  "That sucks", Anna replied. "Yeah, it did. But that's the thing.  I finally stopped giving a crap and it's so much better.  I guess you have to experience it to understand.  As lame as this may sound, I don't want you to experience this heartache.  I think in many ways that's also why Lil didn't want you to be a popular.  She knew what it could do to you."  "That's not lame", Anna said, "it's nice.  But it isn't you or Lil's job to protect me.  I can handle myself."  Stormy rolled her eyes, "You definitely showed me that at the party."  "That won't happen again, I swear." 

 

Stormy drove Anna home.  Anna walked in, it was about 12:30p.m.  Judy was waiting for her at the door, "What's the matter with you?  You don't know how to answer your phone?"  "Hunh?" Anna asked. She looked at her phone, she had seven missed calls from her mom!  "I'm sorry, I didn't hear you call."  "Oh, you're deaf now?"  "It was on vibrate."  Anna held her head, she couldn't believe how loud her mom was yelling.  Her mom never yelled.  "That was not Sarah's car.  Who's car was that?"  "Mom, it was Stormy's.  She decided to sleep over at Sarah's as well, so she gave me a ride home."  "You look awful. You're hair's a mess, you're makeup's smeared, what the hell is wrong with you?  You're hiding something, I know you are!" "Mom, I'm not hiding anything.  I went to a sleepover.  We stayed up late consuming junk food and talking."  "You look wrecked.  Were you drinking?"  Anna's heart jumped.  How did her mom know?  "No mom, what?  How could you accuse me of drinking!"  "I'm not an idiot.  You riek of alcohol!"  "Mom, other kids at the party were drinking.  I wasn't, I would never do that!"  Judy looked Anna up and down, "Are you aware that your shirt's on backwards?" Anna looked down, "Oh, um, no.  I was in a rush to get dressed."  "Hm, you were in a rush to get dressed to go home?"  "Yeah."  Judy folded her arms,"You're full of crap."  "I don't care what you think.  I'm going to bed." "Why are you going to bed?"  Anna rolled her eyes, "Duh, I'm tired."  "Oh no, you had your fun.  Now you have chores to do.  Do the dishes, laundry, and the bathrooms.  This house is disgusting.  Clean the whole thing!  I want it to be so clean that you're willing to lick every surface!"

 

So Anna spent the next three and a half hours in agony as she cleaned. She hated her mom.  She hated Sarah.  She hated the Annettes.  She had was even beginning to hate herself.  Her cell phone rang, "Hello?" She answered.  "Hey girl", Tanya said.  "Hey", Anna rolled her eyes, she wasn't in the mood for dealing with the Annettes.  "Are you alright?  We heard you got totally wasted girl." "Yeah, I'm fine."  "Well guess what I heard?"  "What?"  "Apparently everyone in the entire school wants to be your friend.  Also, you know Kevin King?"  "Duh, who doesn't know Kevin King."  Kevin King was a senior and the school's quarterback.  Not to mention the fact that he was totally hot.  "Well guess what happened at around 7 in the morning while you were passed out?"  "What?"  "He and his girlfriend, you know, Cameron's sister Natalie?"  "Yeah yeah, go on."  "Well the got into a huge fight!  It was all so dramatic.  So he broke up with her right then and there."  "Ouch, poor Natalie.  Wait, why should I care?"  "Because, I heard he likes someone else."  "Yeah, and?"  "She's in our clique."  "Who?  Leah?  Bri?"  Tanya laughed, "No girl, he likes you!"  "Aaaaaah", Anna and Tanya screamed over the phone together.  "Wait a sec, you've been wrong before, who'd you hear this from Tanya?" Anna asked.  Tanya sighed, "I heard it from Jake, his best friend.  Jake was totally flirting with me and while we were talking he let it slip that Kevin's totally into you."  "You better not be on that phone", Judy yelled.  "I have to go Tanya, I'll be on Myspace later and I'll talk to you. Bye."

 

Once she was done cleaning, Anna went upstairs.  "I'm going to the store", her mom called from downstairs.  "Alright, see you later."  After hearing her mom walk out, Anna started dialing Stormy's number. "Hello?" Stormy answered.  "Stormy, I have amazing news!"  "What?"  "Guess who likes me?"  "Who?"  "Kevin King."  Stormy gasped, "What?  Lily couldn't even get him.  Why do you think he likes you."  "Think? Please girl, I know.  Tanya heard from his best friend Jake."  "Wait, Kevin's dating Natalie."  "No, he broke up with her while I was passed out."  "Shut up!  Oh my gosh, that's awesome."  "No it isn't", Anna said, "I have a boyfriend, remember?"  Stormy laughed, "You're not seriously going to pass on Kevin King, are you?"  "Well, I guess not."  "Good, get a piece of paper and pen.  I'll give you his number."  "You have his number?" Anna asked, shocked.  "I was a popular once upon a time, was I not?"  Anna laughed, "Ok, give it to me."  "It's 321-8941."  "K, I'll give him a call, then I'll tell you everything later.  Cool?"  "Cool." 

 

Anna dialed Kevin's number.  "Hello?" A low voice answered.  "Hi, I'm calling for Kevin."  "This is he.  Who's this?"  "Anna, Anna Smitt."  "Ah, Anna Smitt from the party.  Are you feeling ok? You had a rough night."  Anna laughed, "I'm much better.  Anyway, I heard you broke up with Natalie." "Yeah, best decision of my life."  "I agree.  She doesn't seem too nice."  Kevin laughed, "Yeah, she wasn't."  "Anyway, a little birdy told me that you like me."  "Oh really?"  "Yeah, really. So, when are you going to take me out?"  "How about Monday after school?"  "Sounds good to me."  "Bye Anna."  "Bye Kevin."  Anna squealed after saying bye. Oh my gosh!  Kevin King likes me! Anna texted Stormy to let her know that he was taking her out.

 

Anna then called Sarah.  "Hey."  "Hey, guess what."  "What?"  "Kevin King likes me!"  "Cool."  "Um, maybe you didn't hear me correctly.  The Kevin King likes me!" "Nice to know."  "What's wrong?" "Anna, I think we need to take a break from being friends."  "I beg your pardon?"  "You've become a different person.  You're lying, being mean, now you're drinking?  What next?"  "Come on Sarah, I'm still me." "No,you aren't still you.  I don't know you anymore."  "But Sarah, you can't stop talking to me.  You're my best friend, aren't you?" Anna could feel tears forming in her eyes and her throat getting lumpy.  "I'm sorry Anna, but I can't be your friend.  Not now at least."  Sarah hung up the phone, leaving Anna to her tears. 

 

Chapter 11:

 

Monday rolled around and everyone was talking about the party, especially Anna's performance.  "I don't get it", Anna said to the Annettes,  "I mean, kids here get drunk all the time.  And do much worse then that.  So why is it such a big deal that I did?" "Because", Leah said, "you're Anna Smitt.  You're a queen.  Even senior girls want to be your friend."  "So?"  "So", Dara said, "of course people are going to talk about you.  You're like a celebrity.  You're the Lindsay Lohan of the school."  "But I'm not so sure that's a good thing", Anna said.  "What?" All the Annettes asked.  "You guys are so dumb, I'm just kidding."  They all laughed. 

 

"Uh oh, look who it is", Tanya said, pointing to Sarah.  Sarah was at her locker.  She turned around to see the Annettes.  "Hey guys."  "I'm sorry, did someone say something?" Dara asked.  "Oh yeah, an ex-popular", Leah snickered. "Come on, you said it yourself Anna, she's an ex-popular, meaning she's no more then trash.", Bri said.  "Well, yeah, but-."  "You aren't going against one of your own rules, are you?"  Dara asked.  "Come on Anna, this girl bailed on you just for having some fun", Tanya added.  The anger came back to Anna.  "You're right.  Come on guys."

 

It had really hurt Anna how Sarah wanted to stop being her friend.  Anna knew she wasn't right that night at the party, but Sarah wasn't doing any good by no longer being her friend.  Anna shook thoughts of Sarah from her mind.  She had much bigger fish to fry.  Today she was going out with Kevin King after school.  She was in a stunner outfit and was looking fabulous.  "Oooh, can we watch as you break up with Cameron?" Leah asked.  Anna smiled, "Ok with me." 

 

Anna walked up to Cameron, she suddenly felt unsure.  All of his friends were around, and she knew he'd be really embarassed.  Well, I have nothing to lose. "Hey Anna, you look pretty today." "Yeah, you don't.  You didn't call me once this weekend.  Not cool Cameron.  Now I no longer have to choose out of the pond of freshmen guys.  I'm now selecting from the ocean."  Cameron gave her a confused look, "What do you mean?"  Anna knew she was being mean, but decided to continue her performance.  "How did you ever get into honors classes Cameron?  You're beyond dumb!  I'm breaking up with you.  I'm letting you go.  You're dead to me.  Comprehend?"  "What? But, but Anna, why?"  "You've been holding me back.  Kevin King wants to go out with me.  Who do you seriously think I'd rather date?"  "But, I thought you liked me", Cameron said.  Anna could tell how sad he was, but she couldn't stop, not now.  "People change Cameron.  I'm sorry, but I can't be your girlfriend any longer."  

 

As Anna and the Annettes walked back to their lockers, Anna could only think of how sad Cameron looked.  How could I be so mean?  And why did I have to break up with him so publicly?  In front of all of his friends?  I'm such a jerk. "Wow, Cameron looked really messed up", Leah said.  Anna would not show weakness to her clique, "Who cares?  He was holding me back.  Besides, he'll get over it.  Every woman has the right to choose who she'll be with.  I was just exercising my right.  And if you care so much, why don't you go date him Leah?"  Leah looked back in shock.  Anna could tell no one ever talked to Leah that way.  "I, I, I was just saying-", Leah stuttered.  "Yeah, well don't.  Or I'll have your chicken legs sitting with the chess club dorks."

 

All day everyone was discussing Anna & Cameron's breakup.  Anna kept hearing ridiculous gossip. "I heard Anna threw her soy latte on him."  "I heard she's pregnant with his kid."  "Is it true that Kevin King asked you to marry him?"  Anna didn't let the mindless chatter of wannabes get to her.  Her only focus as she heard the end of the day school bell ring, was her date with Kevin King.  Stormy approached her, "Ok, show me your teeth."  Anna smiled while Stormy observed, "Good, no food.  Ok, you don't smell weird and you look pretty, which is a plus.  Ask him questions about sports and stuff, as he's into football.  Don't eat too much, chew with your mouth closed, and pretend to be interested even when he's boring." 

 

"Ready for our date?" Kevin asked, in his monotone voice.  "Yep."  Kevin unlocked the door to his Fararri.  "Get in."  Anna got into the car, "You have an awesome car."  "Thanks."  Anna immediately felt akward. She had no idea what to talk to him about.  "So, are you playing football as a way to get scholarships to college?"  Kevin rolled his eyes, "My family's filthy rich, I don't need a scholarship.  But no, I just play to score chicks.  I hate football."  "So, you're more into school?"  "No, I hate school.  I don't plan on going to school."  "Oh?  What do you want to be?"  "An underwear model.  I figure I have a nice enough body."  Anna nodded, "Yeah, definitely.  Um, what if that doesn't work out?"  Kevin shrugged, "I'll figure out something.  Maybe I'll go into singing."  With that Kevin started singing to Sexy Back by Justin Timberlake.  He decided to do a run, "Sexy baaaaaack!"  Anna looked back in horror.  She didn't know much about notes, but she was pretty sure that one didn't exist.  "Like my voice?" He asked after singing to three songs.  "Yeah", Anna lied, "you have major talent." 

 

Anna spent the next 3 hours wishing she could shoot herself.  All he talked about at the restaurant was sports and how much of a money-grabbing cow Natalie was.  She kept thinking: Oh my goodness!  How in the hell could any girl find him attractive?  I don't care how hot he is, the guy's atrocious.  I'm losing half of my brain just listening to him!  But no worries Anna, he's probably having a bad time too.  To her disappointment, before dropping her off he gave her a promise ring.  "What's this for?" Anna asked nervously.  "Well now that you're my girlfriend, you need some kind of symbol for it.  I'd give you my letterman jacket, but Natalie's refusing to give it back to me."  "Oh, um, thanks.  It's beautiful."  "Alright, I'll see you tomorrow."  Before she left though, Kevin leaned in and kissed her, shoving his entire tongue down her throat.  Anna practically gagged.  She waved and then ran inside and started spitting into the sink.  Anna shuttered at the thought of her new boyfriend.  She reached for the phone to call Sarah to give her the horrifying details, but put it down.  It was tough no longer having a best friend.

 

Anna instead called Tanya.  "Hola?"  "Hey Tanya, it's Anna."  "Hey girl, how was your date?"  Anna wanted to tell Tanya how badly it sucked, but hesitated.  "Um, it was great.  OMG, he's such an amazing kisser and he's so much fun to be around.  I don't know how Natalie ever let Kevin get away." Anna then for over an hour went into unbelievable lies of her 'magical' date with Kevin.  "Wow", Tanya said, "I'm so glad we're friends Anna.  You're so cool."  Anna laughed, "Yeah, you aren't bad yourself."  "You're missing something though", Tanya said.  "What's that?"  "You no longer have an omega.  Every great alpha needs an omega!  It's a necessity."  "Oh, I didn't know it was."  "Yeah, so I'll be it."  "You will?"  "Yeah, I'll be your fave friend."  Anna tried to imagine spending three hours on the phone with Tanya or staying up all night eating marshmellows and bacon.  She shook her head, she just couldn't see it.  "Yeah, you can totally be my omega.  You'll be a way cooler one then Sarah."  Tanya laughed, "I agree.  See you tomorrow, and tell your hot bf I said hey."  Anna laughed, "Cool, I will.  Hey wait." "Yeah?"  "Tanya, be sure to spread the news of us being an item all around town."  Tanya laughed, "Town?  I have one of the most expensive cell phones ever created, this news will reach China in less then a minute."  Anna laughed, "Good." 

 

After letting Stormy know about her new boyfriend, Anna went to take a shower.  After she got out, she got a call.  "Hello?" "Hey, it's Cameron."  Anna mouthed 'why' to God.  "Hey."  "Look, we need to talk Anna. You really hurt me today.  I really liked you and I thought you liked me too."  "Cameron, last year you didn't know I existed.  Look, I like you too, but you deserve someone better then me."  "Like who?"  "I don't know who it will be, but she'll be prettier and smarter and have a good heart."  "But you're pretty, smart and you have a good heart." "Dude", Anna practically shouted, "get some pride!  Did you see how I treated you today?"  "But I know deep down you like me.  It's just that the pressures of popularity are getting to you." Anna couldn't help wondering how he knew.  "Look Cameron, I have a new boyfriend now.  I gotta go."  "But Anna-."  Anna hung up before he could finish.

 

Chapter 12:

 

A few weeks passed and Anna's popularity increased.  Everyone knew of Anna being Kevin King's girlfriend.  The girls loved and loathed her at the same.  All girls were jealous of Anna and Anna couldn't help feeling like a celebrity.  When she went to the mall middle school girls were always coming up, saying, "Aren't you the Anna Smitt?"  Sarah still wasn't speaking to Anna, unless it was a simple 'hey'.  At least Anna had a cool boyfriend, even if he was revolting.  Anna always felt bored to tears when she was around him.  

 

Anna was in the school bathroom putting makeup on when the Annettes came in.  "Hey gals", Anna said to them.  "You won't be happy with my report", Tanya said. "Why? What's up?  Oh no, do I have a zit?"  Anna started looking in the mirror closer, in search of her zit.  "No", Leah said, "besides, this is worse then a zit."  Dara and Bri nodded in agreement.  "Will you just give me the news."  "Amber's started a new clique."  Anna laughed, "Is that all?  Quit being so dramatic, that's such a petty thing." "Um, perhaps you didn't hear me.  Amber Dane has started a clique", Tanya repeated.  "Why should I care?  It's probably just a bunch of loser wannabes, right?"  The Annettes all got a nervous look on their face.  "Um", Dara started, "Natalie and her friends are in it too." "Natalie, as in Cameron's sister?"  The Annettes nodded.  "What the heck?  How?  Why would they want to be associated with Amber?"  "They call themselves the Anna-Haters", Bri said.  "The what?" Anna asked in disbelief.  "Anna-Haters",Tanya repeated.  "The haters?  Why do they hate me."  Leah rolled her eyes, "Anna, it's one thing to reign the lower classmen of 9th and 10th grade.  But to reign over the entire school, at fourteen years old is amazing.  And let's just say that they aren't too happy."  "So what are they gonna do, kill me?" Anna asked.  At this point she was pretty sure it may be a possibility.  "They may as well.  They're apparently seeking major revenge on you.  They even made a website."  "What?"  "Yeah", Dara continued, "it's called www.lets-kill-anna.com."  "Hold on, I need to call Stormy", Anna said.  She called Stormy, "Hello?"  "Where are you?"  "The library, I'm on the computer."  "Stay there, I'm coming over", Anna said before hanging up.  "Where are you going?" Leah asked.  "To talk to Stormy, you don't need to come with."  "I get to, don't I?" Tanya asked.  Anna then remembered that your omega has to be by your side no matter what.  "Fine, come on Tanya.  The Annettes all gave Anna a look like, "What's that about?"

 

As Anna ran in her 5 inch stilettos to the library, her mind was racing.  Oh God, why does Natalie have to be in it? Is it because I'm with her ex-boyfriend?  And how can they can call themselves the Anna-Haters?  I've never done anything. Well except for steal Amber's throne, take Natalie's guy and talk about those girls behind their backs.  But that's not so bad, is it God?  Oh no, what if Sarah joins them.  Oh who am I kidding?  Sarah would never do something so pathetic, besides, Sarah's the least of my concerns when it comes to popularity.  "Do you want to talk?"Tanya asked, interrupting Anna's thoughts.  "Hunh?  No.  I just want to seek revenge."  Tanya nodded, "Alright."  Anna rolled her eyes, she hated having Tanya always round her.  It was like a creepy puppy dog who follows you home from school, but worse.  She was beginning to hate the Annettes.  The other day they had actually followed her into a bathroom stall.  Is nothing sacred?  There was nowhere to hide from her clique.  They were always by her side, especially Tanya.  She and Sarah had been inseperable, but not even to the degree that the Annettes were with Anna.  Sarah never followed her into a stall, that was for sure.  If Sarah had ever, Anna would be telling her to take a hike and with good reason.

 

Anna entered the library immediately ran to where Stormy was.  "Wait up", Tanya yelled while running slowly, she was in 7 inch heels.  Tanya always wore super high heels to make it look like she was taller then her regular height, which was 5ft 2in.   "What's up?" Stormy asked.  Anna sat at the computer next to Stormy.  "I'm in trouble.  Apparently Amber and Natalie have started a clique, want to know the lovely name?" "What?" Stormy asked.  "Anna-Haters", Anna and Tanya replied.  "No!"  "Yes!" They both replied.  "And that's not all.  They're apparently seeking some kind of revenge."  "What kind?" Stormy asked Tanya.  "I didn't get that far yet", Tanya said, in shame.  "But you always get the goods", Anna complained.  "Look, it isn't my fault.  They're being really discreet.  They even have code words for everything."  "What should I do Stormy?"  "Calming down is what you need to do first.  Now listen, the most important thing I learned from Lily was the practice of beating someone at their own game.  We'll find out their agenda, and then have them come crashing down."  Anna smiled, "Sounds good to me.  Those girls will do nothing but cry for the rest of their sorry lives."  Anna and Tanya high-fived.  Just then Amber came around the corner.  "Hey Amber", Anna said.  "Uh, hey Anna", Amber said very nervously.  "What's up?" Anna asked.  "What?  Um, nothing's up.  Except the sky", Amber said with a fake laugh.  Anna went and gave Amber a hug, "Good thing we're friends, right?"  "We are?" Amber asked.  Anna gave her a confused look, "You said we were.  Were you lying?" "No, no, I just, um, yeah", Amber stuttered.  "It was nice seeing you", Anna said, "wasn't it Tanya?"  Tanya smiled back, "Yes, nice indeed."

 

Once Amber left, Anna called Leah and told her and the Annettes to get to the library.  She heard Bri say, "We have a library?"  Once the Annettes got to the library, Anna got on the computer.  She went to the website.  It showed a picture of herself and the Annettes with a huge red X over their picture.  "Can you believe this?" Anna asked. "I know", Bri replied, "that's a terrible picture of me.  They didn't even give me a chance to smile."  All of the Annettes rolled their eyes at Bri's stupidity.  Anna clicked ENTER.  The website had many pages, one was entitled, "Who We Are."  "Go to that one", Stormy instructed Anna. Anna clicked on it.  The page went into detail about why they formed.  Anna then went to a page entitled, "Why Should You Hate Anna & The Annettes?" The page had a long list of unbelievable lies about Anna and her clique, including: "Anna is a racist." "Tanya sets houses on fire for fun."  "Bri has had three abortions!" "Leah is dating a teacher!" "Dara takes anger management classes." 

 

"Oh my gosh.  I can't believe this bull they're spreading", Anna said.  "Wow Leah, you're dating a teacher? Is it the science teacher, Mr. Johnson, because I always thought he was hot", Bri said.  "What the hell is wrong with you, bonehead? These are lies!" Anna said.  Everyone looked at Anna shocked. Bri had said many dumb comments, but Anna had never gotten mad at her for them.  "Well, they aren't all lies", Dara said.  "What do you mean?" Tanya asked. "I do take anger management classes.  But totally against my will. My mom thinks I'm too angry just because I've hit her a few times."  "No! Really? You beat your mother and she's put you in anger management classes? No kidding", Anna replied sarcastically.  "Woah, chill out Anna. You're getting a bit bitchy", Stormy replied.  Anna went to the page entitled, "What We Plan To Do."  Anna clicked on the page, it said, "We're planning to have Anna and the Annettes fall to the ground and die. No one will remember their names.  Attend a meeting at 8130 Weston Street, Monday night, 6:30p.m."

 

"That's tonight", Anna said, "one of us has to find out their agenda."  "I'll go!" Bri volunteered. "No", the girls shouted back.  "I'll go", Leah said, "I'm the least likely to say something stupid."  "Wait a second", Anna said, "let's use our heads.  They'll recognize us.  Stormy needs to go."  "What?" Stormy asked. "Come on Stormy, go and check it out."  "I can't, I have work."  "Dang, now who's going to go?" Anna asked.  "What about?" Leah asked.  "I know who you're thinking about", Anna replied, "good idea." 

 

Anna walked outside during lunch.  She found Sarah sitting wiht her artsy friends.  "Hey Sarah", she called. Sarah turned around, "Yeah?" "I need to talk to you."  Sarah walked over to her, "I'm eating lunch with my friends and my new boyfriend."  "Boyfriend?" Anna asked, in disbelief.  "Yeah the blonde guy, his name is Charlie."  "What? How long have you been dating him?" Sarah shrugged, "Since after I dropped out of your clique. I was all upset about it and vented to him. He was so understanding and nice. Ever since we've been dating." "But, but, you never told me?" "I didn't know I had to."  "But, we tell each other everything.  I mean, I always thought you'd tell me about your first boyfriend."  "I'm sorry.  I just didn't really think you'd care."  Anna crossed her arms and tried to pretend she wasn't hurt, "Is he a good boyfriend?" "Yeah, a really good boyfriend."  "Oh, congrats."  "Is Kevin King a good boyfriend?" Sarah asked.  "The best boyfriend possible", Anna lied.  "Good."  

 

Anna and Sarah stood in silence.  "Anyway, I need something from you."  "What?" "I have a job for you." "Why don't I like the sound of that?" "You know what Sarah, fine!  Never mind. Forget I ever asked you.  I just thought you could do this one thing for me.  Man, I can't count on you for anything.  Some friend you are."  Anna started to walk away, hoping her performance worked.  She knew it did as she heard, "Anna wait."  Anna stood, waiting for Sarah to catch up with her.  "What do you want from me?" "Well-".  "Wait", Sarah interruped, "I'll do it, as long as it doesn't have to do with being in your clique anymore. I'm done with that."  "Don't worry, I have my clique and I'm content with it.  I have a question for you." "Yeah?"  "Have you heard of a group of girls called the Anna-Haters?" Sarah laughed, "The what?" "Don't laugh, I'm serious. It's a real group, have you heard of them?" "No. What a dumb name." "Good.  Not everyone knows about them yet." "Why?" Sarah asked.  "They're a group of girls out for me and my clique. They have code words and a website and they're having a meeting tonight.  It's this really secret thing."  "That's a bit creepy."  "Uh, you think?  So will you do something for me?"  "What?" "Go to the meeting." "I beg your pardon?"  "Please go to the meeting for me Sarah.  I can't send one of the Anettes, they'll be spotted."  "And I won't be? They know I was your best friend." "No, you'll wear a wig." "You're insane."  "Maybe I am!  Look, I've finally gotten popularity.  I'm not about to let pathetic wannabes ruin my head work. I need to know their agenda, when they plan to attack and how. It's the only way I'll be ready for them. So will you please come to Tanya's house after school?"  "Why should I? Give me one good reason."  "Because, you were my best friend.  This would mean so much to me Sarah.  Please, I'm begging you, for me?"  "Fine.  I'll be there."  Anna hugged her tightly, "You're the best!" "I know."

 

After school they all met at Tanya's house.  Anna got there about five minutes late.  The Annettes, Sarah and Stormy sat on the couches in the living room looking at her.  "Where were you?" They asked.  Anna rolled her eyes, "Kevin's being such a moron.  He's all mad at me because I'm not going to watch his football practice.  I mean, I go all the time.  I even go to the stupid football games.  We're undefeated, we win all of the time, it totally takes the suspense out of the game.  Then Kevin does his victory dance and everyone goes home. Does he really think I find seeing a bunch of sweaty idiots fight over a ball is fun?"  "Hm, may want to change that attitude", Stormy commented. "Yeah, Natalie loved football", Leah added.  "Yeah right, she loved flirting with the rest of the team when Kevin's back was turned", Tanya said with a laugh.  Anna laughed too, she liked that Tanya always threw in her gossip.  It seemed to lighten the mood. 

 

"So, ready for your task Sarah?" Anna asked.  Sarah shrugged, "This whole thing is so stupid to me.  Why don't you just ask Amber and Natalie what they're doing."  The Annettes stared back at her in disbelief.  Even Bri was surprised at her naivete.   "You can't just go up and ask Amber", Bri said. "Yeah", Anna continued, "what do you expect me to do?  'Hey Amber, is it true you're plotting to kill me?'"  "Oh and you're plan is so much better.  To play CIA agent and send in an undercover spy to find out their agenda", Sarah retorted.  "What's the matter with you now?" Anna asked.  "Anna, wake up!  This whole thing is crazy.  You actually care so much about maintainig your pathetic clique that you actually are sending in a spy.  In five years none of this will have even mattered." "Will someone get this girl to shut up? I'm getting a serious headache", Dara said.  "No seriously", Sarah continued, "what are you guys accomplishing through your high school social status?  Do you ever think about it?  How will it help you in the future?  You guys need to understand that there's a lot more to life then who's hooking up with who, and who's taking who's man and who's plotting against you.  None of that will even matter before you know it. And you'll all just be sitting around and looking at each other stupid, wondering why you wasted so much time."  Stormy nodded, "I hate to be the devil's advocate, but Sarah totally hit the nail on the head.  I mean, this doesn't matter."

 

Anna wouldn't admit it aloud, but she even saw the reason in Sarah's words.  She noticed her clique were looking to her to see what she would say.  Whatever position she took, they would as well.  What should I do?  I finally have popularity and a clique.  What do they expect me to say? 'You can go home now.  You no longer have to worship me.'  I don't think so!  "It does matter", Anna answered, "and I'm sorry you two don't see the importance of this.  But we're going down in history.  The Annettes reign and will leave a mark on this high school.  We're more then just a group of girls, we're a fashion statement and doctrine.  Man, we're leaving a legacy.  Right girls?" She wanted to make sure her clique was with her.  "Right", they responded.  But Anna couldn't help notice that they sounded unsure.  They had taken Sarah's words to heart and that's not what Anna wanted.

 

Sarah put on her blonde wig. "This is such a crappy wig." "Shut up, it's  a cheap Hannah Montana wig and it works for now", Anna replied.  "Here are your earphones", Stormy said handing them to her, "this way we'll hear what you hear." "And I have something even better", Dara added handing Sarah a hat.  "A hat?" Sarah asked.  "Ugh Dara, it doesn't even match her outfit", Bri commented.  Dara rolled her eyes, "There's a hidden camera in the hat.  So not only will we hear what she hears-."  Anna finished her sentence, "We'll see what she sees!  Oh my gosh, that's an awesome idea."  Dara curtsied, "I try, I try."  Anna couldn't help laughing at Sarah, with her dark eyes and tan the blonde wig was a bit much.  Sarah crossed her arms, "Now you're laughing at me?  I'm out of here."  "No, no, I'm sorry. You just look really different."  Leah and Tanya approached Sarah.  "What?" Sarah asked.  They both laughed, "You can't play a part without looking it", Leah said.  "What do you mean?" Sarah asked.  "Hello, you need makeup!" They said in unison.  So they spent almost an hour fixing her up.  Tanya did her specialty, eye makeup.  Leah put on her foundation and lip gloss.  Dara painted her fingernails and Bri combed out her wig.  Anna just sat on the floor next to Stormy wondering what would be uncovered at the meeting.

 

 

Chapter 13:

 

Stormy drove Sarah to the meeting, which was in a dark alley.  "Sure this is the right place?" Sarah asked.  Anna and her clique watched from Tanya's house on their bigscreen TV what they saw.  "Wow, that place is creepy", Anna replied.  They then saw a blonde girl approach the car.  Stormy turned her face so that she wouldn't be recognized.  "Are you here for the meeting?" The girl asked.  She was in a long black trench coat.  "Um, I am.  My sister's just dropping me off", Sarah lied.  Anna breathed a sigh of relief, she was glad to see that Sarah could give a quick lie under pressure.  "Get out of the car", the girl told her.  Sarah got out.  "Hand please", the girl said taking it.  She placed a stamp that said Anna-Haters on her hand.  "This will show that you belong here."  Sarah nodded, "Cool."  "Enter."  Sarah waved to Stormy's car, "Bye sis."  Stormy waved and drove off. 

 

The clique watched as Sarah entered the dark alley.  There were chairs set up and little finger foods.  There were a bunch of girls around smiling, laughing, hugging, gossiping.  They all wore their Luis Vitton purses, some were total knockoffs though.  "What the hell?  One minute it's creepy KKK meeting and next it's a freakin' tea party", Anna observed.  "This whole thing is freaky", Leah said.  "Look at all of the girls we know", Dara said, "there's Connie Albright."  "Who cares if she's there.  The chick's a total slut.  She sleeps around like no other", Tanya said.  "Ewww, she's only fourteen", Anna said.  The girls turned and looked at Anna, shocked that she was so surprised.  "I mean, I just think that's a bit young, you know?" The girls shrugged.  "Ugh, there's Jen Haber!  That biatch!  I totally let her use my pencil for the math test last week and she never even gave it back", Dara said.  They all started listing all of the girls there who had pretended to be nice.  "I don't get it - these girls worship me at school.  Why are they doing this?" Anna asked.  "Duh, they think by taking you down they'll get in.  They're such dumb bimbos", Leah replied. 

 

Sarah was checking out the party.  Connie Albright made her way over to Sarah.  "Hi, I'm Connie.  I don't think I know you."  "I'm Sandra", Sarah lied in her best country accent.  "Where are you from?" Connie asked.  "Um, I'm from little ol' Texas.  Papa sold the farm and we moved here.  Anywho, I'm new and a junior."  "Cool.  Do you hate Anna too?"  "Um, yeah, the girl's a total dog."  "Hey", Anna yelled at the screen, "I hear this you know."  "I know, right?  I just pretend to be her friend so that I'm cool with her.  I'm surprised she's even popular.  She's so fugly."  "What are you talking about? She's so pretty!" Sarah replied.  "What?" Connie asked.  "I mean, she's like airbrushed.  You know?"  "Oh, whatev. She's so dumb.  Kevin King and I are dating behind her back."  "Oh really?" Sarah asked.  "Yeah, really."  "Well you know what I think of you?"  "What?" Connie asked.  "I think you're a slutbag cow and you should be ashamed!  You, you, you homewrecker!"  "Woah, what's your deal?  You dating her or something?" "I just hate girls like you, that's my deal."  With that Sarah stomped away from her and took a seat.

 

Anna stared back at the screen in disbelief.  How many other girlfriends does Kevin have?  She saw her clique watching her to see her reaction.  "Sarah almost blew cover", was all she said.  "Um, I bet Connie's lying.  Kevin wouldn't give that skank the time of day", Tanya said.  "Yeah", all the girls replied.  "She's totally lying", Bri said.  Anna didn't respond. 

 

"Shhh, the meeting's starting", Anna said.  Ten girls walked in front of the girls in the seats.  They had long black trench coats on and black hats and black masquerade masks.  "Hello", said one of the girls, "welcome to the first official meeting of the Anna-Haters.  I now call this meeting to order."  "She sounds like Natalie", Tanya whispered.  "Shhhh", Leah replied.   Jen Haber turned and smiled to Sarah, "I'm so excited", she whispered.  "Me too", Sarah replied in her country accent.  "I'm Jen, what's your name?"  "Sar-, um, Sandra.  I'm new and I'm a junior."  The girl speaking continued, "Now you've all been hurt by Anna and the Annettes somehow, right?"  "Right!" The girls shouted.  "We don't just want revenge, we want her head hand-delivered to us on a silver platter, right?"  "Right!" The girls screamed. 

 

"I don't understand what I've done to them", Anna whispered.  "What are some of the things this clique have done to you?" The speaker asked.  Jen Haber stood, "Leah called me fat and made out with my boyfriend at the Halloween party!"  Anna turned to Leah, "You didn't?"  Leah's face turned red, "Um, I may have.  I was drinking, ok?  I didn't know what I was doing."  Connie Albright then stood, "Those girls are constantly spreading rumors about me.  Tanya's called me a slut too many times to count and she's always discussing my love life with others."  Tanya shook her head, "Hey, that's not fair!  I talk about everyone!" Tanya shouted.  Girl after girl stood reciting what one of the Annettes said or did to her.  "Leah tripped me in the hall."  "Dara cut my hair when my back was turned and put a piece of paper on my back saying I take drugs."  "Bri's constantly flirting with my boyfriend."  "Tanya told everyone I'm planning to bomb the school."

 

"Notice anything girls?" Anna asked.  "What?" They all asked.  "No one is saying anything about me!  I haven't done anything to them.  I'm screwed because of you!"  The girls all looked down in shame.  "You don't have to yell", Bri said.  Anna rolled her eyes.  One of the girls took off her heat and mask.  It was Amber!  She began her speech, "I see many of you are complaining about the Annettes.  My complaint goes directly to another one.  The leader, Anna Smitt.  You see, I had authority.  I was appointed to reign the school one day.  But Anna used deceit and her family name to steal my throne.  I want it back!" Amber said.  Everyone stood and clapped.  "You can all join this group", the other girl said, "but you can never speak of this at school or anywhere else.  We will only meet here.  Please come up if you'd like to join."  Some were tentative, until Amber spoke, "You will all get popularity if you join our group of Anna-Haters.  You will all reign."  All of the girls went running, Sarah turned to leave, when Jen touched her arm, "Where are you going Sandra?"  "Um, who me?  Oh, I think my sister will be here any minute."  "Well you have to tell them you want to join first.  It's the only way you'll be inaugarated into the group."  "Ok." 

 

Sarah followed Jen to the front.  Sarah prayed to herself that Amber wouldn't recognize her.  "Name?" Amber asked.  "Sandra."  "Sandra who?" "Sandra Bun."  Amber wrote down her name.  "Why do you wish to be brought into the group?" Amber asked.  "To undo the injustice that has been brought to all by Anna and her clique.  It just hurts my dear old heart that she stole your throne like that."  Amber smirked, "In that case, welcome.  Size?"  "Um, small?"  Amber handed her a black trench coat, hat and mask.  Sarah turned to go back to her seat to get her purse, "Wait", Amber said.  Sarah froze, thinking she must know who she is.  She slowly turned, "Yes?"  "I love your outfit."  Sarah gulped, "Thanks, I got it on Ebay."  "Attention everyone", Amber announced, "we'll be having weekly meetings each Monday at 6:30p.m.  We will see you all next Monday.  Remember - speak of this to no one."  The girls had to recite the oath, "We promise to do everything in our power to destory Anna and the Annettes."  They then blew out their candles and left.   

 

Anna shook her head, "Wow.  So we know they're real, we just don't know their agenda - yet."  Stormy dropped Sarah off at Tanya's.  Sarah came into Tanya's room, "How'd I do?"  Anna ran and hugged her friend, "You were amazing!  'I'm Sandra Bun, papa sold the farm'", Anna mimicked Sarah's country accent with a laugh.  Sarah laughed too, "I tried my best.  Anyway Anna, I'd be careful.  You haven't even done something directly to these girls and they loathe you."  Anna nodded, "Don't worry.  I'll watch myself.  I saw you were inaugarated."  Sarah shrugged, "Yeah, maybe."  "Does that mean you'll be my spy and help me find out their agenda?"  Sarah laughed, "If anyone's going to watch you fall on your butt, it's me!  Now my mom doesn't feel like picking me up and Jeff drove to Laguna Beach again without permission.  So I'm sleeping over at your house."  "Cool", Anna replied.  "May I speak to you for a moment?" Tanya asked Anna.  Anna followed Tanya out to the hall.  "Don't forget that I'm your omega", Tanya told her.  "What are you talking about?  Why would I forget that?"  "Because you love Sarah.  But remember, she bailed on you."  "Chill Tanya, Sarah has no interest in being my omega again."  "You sure?"  "Yeah, bye."  After saying bye to her clique Anna and Sarah got into Judy's car.

 

"Hey mom", Anna said.  "Hey, Sarah?  What a pleasant surprise.  I haven't seen you in quite a while."  Sarah smiled, "I've been insanely busy Ms. Judy."  "Oh, I'm sure."  Judy went on to ask Sarah a million questions about what she's been up to, even about her new boyfriend.  "Mom!" Anna shouted.  "You know I have a boyfriend?" Sarah asked.  "Oh, Anna told me.  Is he hot?" Judy asked.  "Mom, you're so embarassing.  Since when do you say 'hot'?"  "I know the hip language, you dig?"  Anna and Sarah spent the rest of the car ride home cracking up at the fact that Judy had said that.

 

They got to the house and they both lied in the dark, in silence.  "So, Tanya's your omega now?" Sarah asked.  "Yep, she became it after you quit on me."  "I didn't really quit on you."  "What do you call it?" Anna asked.  "Anna, you were becoming a totally different person.  I didn't even know what to do!" "You didn't have to stop being my friend", Anna muttered.  "I'm doing this thing for you, aren't I?"  "Yeah, and it means a lot to me."  "It's cool.  So, I'm assuming you heard what Connie said about her and Kevin King?"  Anna nodded, "Yep."  "Think she's lying?" Sarah asked.  Anna thought for a while, then finally responded, "No, I don't.  I lied to you Sarah."  "About what?"  "About Kevin.  He's a sucky boyfriend.  All he talks about is how awful Natalie was and sports.  He also can't kiss to save his life", Anna added with a laugh. Sarah laughed too, "He sounds just lovely.  You know, those things are sucky.  But that doesn't mean he's cheating on you."  Anna shook her head, "I've seen him check out other girls while my back was turned.  He's also always getting text messages to his phone from girls."  "Oh, so what are you going to do about it?  I mean, you're not staying with the pig, are you?"  Anna smiled, "Don't worry, I'll think of something.  It'll be brutal."  Sarah sat up, "Who are you trying to prove yourself to?  I mean, why this whole 'high school domination plan' now?"  Anna shrugged, "I'm not proving myself to anyone.  I just wanted popularity.  That's not a bad thing, Sarah."  "But losing yourself for popularity is."  Anna sat up too, "God Sarah, you're so judgmental!  You're the expert?  Fine, tell me who I am!  What am I running from Sarah?"  Sarah laid back down, "Yourself.  That answers both questions.  You're you, yet you're desperately trying to change the 'you' you're supposed to be.  The 'you' you're supposed to be is who you're running from."  Anna laid down, "Thanks for the analysis, but I'm fine.  Good night."  "Good night."

 

Chapter 14:

 

The next day at school Anna made her way, along with her clique and Sarah to Kevin's table.  "Hey babe", Kevin said, "I thought you never ate with me on Tuesdays.  Only Mondays and Wednesdays."  "Yeah, whatever, is it true you've been cheating on me?"  Kevin immediately looked around nervously, "Um, what?" "Did I stutter?  Have you been cheating on me with hoes like Connie Albright?  I hear you're secretly dating her.  How many other secret girls do you have on the side?"  Kevin gulped, "About ten.  But you're my favorite girlfriend!"  Anna looked at him and smiled.  She knew how to play a game.  "Aww, babe, I've just been so emotional and I started over-reacting is all.  Can I have a hug?"  Kevin shrugged and leaned in to hug her. Anna unbuttoned his pants and pulled them down, "What the heck are you doing?" He shouted.  She grabbed his chocolate milk and the waistband of his checkered boxers and poured the milk into his boxers.  "That's for cheating on me with ten other girls!" Anna yelled back.  She then took the mashed potatoes off his plate and plopped them onto his head and rubbed them into his hair.  "That's for expecting me to go to all of your stupid football games!"  "Please stop", he begged.  Everyone around them was cracking up.  She then stepped on his foot, "That's for making me hear you sing all the time even though you can't sing to save your life!"  He yelped and went to reach for his foot.  Before he could Anna kicked him where it would send any guy crying.  "Owwwww!" He screamed.  "And that's for being the worst boyfriend to ever walk the planet!"  Before Anna walked off, she yelled back to him, "BTW, you're kissing skills need some serious fixing!"  Anna walked through the sea of people clapping for her while laughing at the Kevin King.

 

While Tanya was assigned to go hear people's responses to Anna's performance, Anna went to the bathroom.  "Oh my goodness, that was amazing!" Sarah screamed. Anna laughed, "Did you see the look on his face?"  The Annettes died of laughter. "Man", Leah said, wiping at a tear,"I knew it would be good.  But not that good.  Pouring the chocolate milk into his boxers?  Genious!"  "I think I actually saw him start to cry", Dara laughed.  Stormy ran into the bathroom and hugged Anna, "I love you, marry me!"  Anna laughed, "Am I good or what?"  "On Lil's best day she couldn't have pulled that off.  You were like royalty, or something.  You had so much grace and the way you commanded the room's attention.  Oh, and pulling down his pants was so good."  Anna curtsied,"What can I say?" 

 

Tanya entered the bathroom, "Want to hear the response?"  "Yes, what are they saying?" Anna asked.  "They love you! They were chanting your name.  I must have heard a hundred girls say, 'I wish I had the guts to stand up to my boyfriend like that.'  Oh, and Anna, the guys love you. They thought that was so hot.  Natalie's still laughing and says that she should've asked you how to deal with Kevin.  She then went up to Kevin and poured a soda on him, saying, 'I wish I had thought like Anna when we were together!'  Anna, you were amazing!" Tanya complimented.  Anna beamed, "I'm so happy.  What's Kevin doing?"  "He has tears in his eyes and ran to the bathroom.  He's beyond embarassed.  Everyone's calling him a loser and a weenie."  "Aw, poor Kevin", Sarah said, "he must feel so embarassed."  Anna and the Annettes turned to look at Sarah.  "Why would you care how he feels?" Anna asked.  "He's still a human", Sarah reasoned, "I mean, we all see him as the super hot football star of the school.  But he has feelings.  It doesn't get more embarassing then having your pants pulled down, food poured on you and being kicked in the 'you know what'."  Stormy looked down, "Maybe you went a bit far Anna.  I mean, it was funny.  But the point wasn't to make him mortified.  If that happened to me, I'd die.  With male pride and all, I bet it's even harder for Kevin."  Anna hated Sarah and Stormy for making her feel bad.  Kevin had looked really sad, ten times more upset then Cameron did when she dumped him.  "He should have thought before cheating on me. Hopefully I've taught him a lesson."

 

Monday came around the corner.  Anna had become even more of a star for what she did to Kevin.  Everyone loved her for it.  The day it happened Kevin had texted her asking if they were over.  She texted him back: Get a clue!  Anna knew that this meant she no longer had a boyfriend.  Anna and her clique discussed it over lunch.  "You need a boyfriend", Tanya told her. "Why? Amber didn't have one all of the time."  "You're a queen, which means you need a king!"  "Elizabeth the first didn't have a king."  "What's your deal?" Leah asked.  The school has like a hundred hot guys, pick one!"  "Hm, how about Robbie Meyers?" Dara suggested.  "Heck no", Tanya replied, "I've been crushing on him since school started and he finally called me yesterday after school.  He wants to go out for pizza on Friday night. No way are you stealing him."  Anna laughed, "Calm down, I'm not going to steal him."  "What about Ralph Harris?" Leah suggested.  "No, I totally dated him over the summer", Bri said.  "So what?" Leah asked.  "She can't take my leftovers.  It's totally against the rules."  "I don't want Ralph", Anna said, "he has acne."  "He does not!" Bri retorted.  "Yeah he does.  He totally needs some kind of medication."  "How about Cameron?" Anna asked herself aloud.  "But you already broke it off with him", Tanya said.  "So I'll get it back on."

 

Anna walked over to where Cameron was.  He was standing and talking to some freshman girls with way too short skirts.  "Hey Cameron."  "Hey Anna."  "I need to talk to you hon", Anna said to him while looking at the girls.  The girls got the message, "We were just leaving anyway", they said to Anna. Anna smiled, "Bye."  The girls scurried away.  Anna smelled him, "I must say that cologne really compliments you", Anna said with a smile.  "What do you need?" Cameron asked, obviously irritated.  "Well somebody's experiencing PMS today."  Cameron rolled his eyes, "Ok, what can I do for you?" "Want to be my boyfriend?"  "What?" Anna put her arm around Cameron, "Cameron, I'm sure you've heard that I broke it off with Kevin King."  "Yeah, I saw.  Man, that was brutal."  Anna laughed, "Wasn't it?  Anyway, want to know why I broke it off with him?"  "Because he was cheating on you with everyone and their mom?"  Anna fake-smiled, "You're too funny Cameron.  But no, that's not why.  That's only one of the reasons.  Another reason is because of you."  "Me?" Cameron asked, hopeful.  "Yep.  You see Cameron, I realized while I was with Kevin how much you mean to me", Anna lied.  "You did?"  "Yeah, I did.  I missed you like crazy."  "I missed you too Anna.  But you really hurt me when you broke up with me like that, in front of everyone.  I hadn't even done anything to you."  "I know.  I was beyond confused Cameron.  I didn't know who I wanted.  But now I know, I wanted you all along.  I'm so sorry for how I treated you. There's no excuse for that kind of behavior.  I bet you hate me."  Anna turned and started walking, she waited.  Cameron caught up with her, "No Anna, I don't hate you.  I still like you, alot."  "You do?"  "Yeah, and would you please give me another shot?"  "Of course Cameron."  Anna gave him a hug, "Want to come sit with me?"  "Sure."

 

Anna walked back, holding hands with Cameron.  "Hey", Cameron said to the table.  "Hey", they replied back.  "It worked?" Tanya mouthed to Anna.  "Yep!" Anna mouthed back to her.  But something caught her attention.  She saw Kevin King walking past with a girl.  But not just any girl, Amber was holding his hand.  "Look", Anna mouthed to the clique. They all turned to see Kevin and Amber.

 

After school they all met at Tanya's house again.  "Why was Amber with Kevin?" Sarah asked.  "I have no idea", Anna replied.  "Hm, they were holding hands so I'm assuming they're together", Leah said.  "I have to tell you something", Tanya said, "and I swear it's true."  "What?" Anna asked.  "I totally spotted Kevin and Amber making out after 5th period."  "Well now we officially know they're together", Stormy said.  Sarah put on her blonde wig, "I sweat like a pig when I wear this thing", Sarah complained.  "Pigs sweat?" Bri asked.  "It's just an expression Bri", Anna said.  "Oh, right, like my mom tells me to always make a good expression on people."  The girls all looked at Bri in disbelief.  "Don't you mean impression?" Stormy asked.  "Oh, that too."  Sarah put on some makeup, "How do I sound.  Do I sound like Sandra Bun?" Sarah asked in a country accent.  "Totally", Anna responded, "remember you're a junior."  "Yep."  "Don't forget the hat."  Sarah put it on her head, "How do I look?"  "Sexy."  Stormy and Sarah got into the car.  "Remember to get the agenda!" Anna called to her.  Sarah nodded, "I got it." 

 

Anna and her clique gathered around the television at 6:30p.m.  Sarah was in the meeting saying hi to people.  She wore her black trench coat, hat and mask.  Connie made her way over, "Can you believe what Anna did to Kevin?" "I know, isn't it awful?" Sarah replied.  Sarah could tell from the red hair that the girl walking past her texting was Amber.  "Hey Amber", Sarah called in her country accent.  Amber turned to her and came over, "Sandra, right?"  "Hunh?  Oh, yeah, I'm Sandra Bun."  "We don't use names here.  We use codenames.  I'm known as Hot Tamale here. You're name's Southern Belle."  "Ok."  "What do you want Southern Belle?"  "Um, is it true you're with Kevin King?" "Oh, totally. Isn't he so hot?"  "Yeah he is.  I bet Anna's going to be mad though."  "Who cares what she thinks?  You see, this is a part of my plan.  Taking her ex-boyfriend is the perfect way to get under her skin, you know?"  "Oh, totally. Is Kevin involved at all with our group?"  "Kevin?  No, the guy's so oblivious to everything.  He really thinks I like him."  "Don't you?"  "He's hot, but a total moron."  "Oh.  Well are there any other reasons you're after Anna?"  Amber was about to answer, but instead said, "Southern Belle, I think it's great that you're so enthusiastic about our group." "Thanks."  "But don't worry you're head about topics of no interest to you.  You'll get your own assignments soon enough dear.  Now just go mingle and remember to keep your eyes out for Anna and the Annettes."  "Alright dear."

 

"What a biatch!" Anna yelled at the screen.  "Chill Anna", Tanya cautioned.  "She's only with Kevin to get back at me? I can't believe her!  Oh, and do you see how she's talking to Sarah?  She's so rude."  "This is Amber Dane we're talking about", Leah said.  "It seems like it may be harder for Sarah to get Amber to talk."  

 

Sarah went over to who they assumed to be Natalie.  "Hey Natalie."  Natalie looked alarmed, "What?"  "Oh, I'm sorry.  I totally forgot about the whole codename thing. I'm Southern Belle.  What's your name?" "Diamond."  "Nice codename."  "Yeah."  "So, why do you hate Anna? Is it because she started dating Kevin?"  "Correction, she stole Kevin away!" "But I heard you broke up with him at the Halloween party."  "We did not break up.  We had a fight.  We've had, like, a zillion fights before.  We didn't officially say it was over."  "But, I bet if Anna had known you were still with him she wouldn't have ever gone out with him."  "How naive are you?  It was totally her plan all along.  Her sister hated me, Anna probably inherited it."  "What do you mean Lil' hated you?"  "She saw me as a threat.  So she invited me to this party, I was so excited.  I mean, I was actually being invited to a party by the Lily Smitt."  "That's great that she invited you."  "I thought it was.  But it turned out the party was a 'Bring The Biggest Loser' party.  I was brought by Lily.  She then recited a poem she wrote for me. It rhymed and was all about how ugly and stupid I was.  She then tripped me as I ran out of the house and everyone laughed at me.  That summer after 9th grade I went on a shopping spree, got a tan and luckily I started dating Kevin. That really increased my popularity."  Sarah looked back in disbelief, "You're serious? Lil' did that to you?"  "Yeah, I spent the whole year sobbing all the time."  "Oh my gosh, that's so horrible.  Lil' didn't seem that way."  "What do you mean?" Natalie asked, confused.  "Um, I mean, I've heard stories of how nice she was."  "How nice?  Hah! All Lily needed was a broomstick.  She was the meanest girl I've ever met."  

 

"Oh my God, that's so awful what your sister did to Natalie", Leah said, "and I usually don't care about anyone."  "Poor Natalie", Bri said.  "Perhaps she's just lying.  Come on, Lily was my sister.  She would never do something that mean", Anna said defending her.  Man, the girl's dead and I still have to defend her and tell everyone how nice she is. "Haven't you noticed how so many girls are always talking about what Lily did or said to them?" Tanya asked.  "Yeah, and?"  "You seriously think they're all lying?" Dara asked.  "I have no reason to believe they're telling the truth." "Even Stormy stopped wanting to be around her.  Doesn't that tell you anything?" Leah asked.  "Whatever, I'm so sick and damn tired of everyone always crying and whining about the horrors Lil' put them through.  It's bull."  "How do you know it is?" Tanya asked.  "I just do, ok?"

 

The meeting was called to order and they started discussing how they planned to destroy Anna.  Anna listened attentively and took notes.  She saw Sarah taking notes as well.  They would be prepared for the attack.

 

Chapter 15:

 

Two weeks passed and the day of Anna and the Annettes attack came.  Amber had planned something quite mortifying, but Anna just decided to turn everything on her.  But even add some.  This was the Anna-Haters plan: To bring Anna into the cafeteria, and have her believe that they were throwing her a surprise party for her birthday that would be that week.  When she entered with her clique, they would bring her and her clique up to the stage and pour maple syrup on them.  They would then throw a pie in Anna's face.  To end the show they would show on the screen a picture of Anna when she was chubby with glasses and braces in 6th grade. 

 

Anna smiled as she thought of the Anna-Hater's pathetic plan.  The girls were all in the bathroom with her.  "You girls ready?"  "Yep", they all replied.  Anna clapped her hands in excitement, "This is going to be so good!"  Sarah ran into the bathroom, "Stop Anna! You're making a huge mistake!"  "What does this girl want now?" Leah asked.  "Look Anna", Sarah continued, "by doing this you'll be just as bad as Amber.  Come on, do you really want to be as bad as her?"  "Shut up Sarah, she had it coming", Tanya said.  "Anna, you don't have to do this.  This is wrong.  Come on, I'd have more respect for you if you just took it from Amber.  But to stoop so low and give her back her same mean treatment just isn't right!"  "Sarah, I'm sorry.  But I have to do this.  You better get to the cafeteria if you want a good seat."  Sarah rolled her eyes and left. 

 

A few minutes later, Amber entered the bathroom.  "There you girls are", Amber said.  "Hey Amber", they all replied.  "What's up?" Anna asked.  "Ok, I'm not supposed to tell you, but I will anyway.  We all pitched in and are throwing you a surprise party", Amber lied.  Man, she's a good liar, or actress.  If I didn't already know her plan, I'd totally fall for this.  She definitely knows how to act.  "What?  For me?  Who's idea was it?" Anna asked.  Amber smiled, "All mine Anna."  "All yours? Get out of here."  Amber hugged Anna, "I just wanted for you to have the best birthday ever."  "Awww, you're so sweet Amber.  Isn't she beyond sweet, guys?"  "Too sweet for words", Leah lied.  "I'm so glad we're friends Anna", Amber said through gritted teeth. "Me too Amber.  You're the best."  "I know."  "And I love your outfit", Anna complimented.  Anna was really disgusted by it, only because it was an exact copy of the look Anna had worn to the mall over the weekend.  Amber totally copied her.

 

Anna and her clique followed Amber to the cafeteria.  "We're going this way."  Amber made her way to backstage.  "Why are we backstage behind the cafeteria?" Anna asked.  "We want to bring you out on stage."  "Ooooh, do I look good?" Anna asked.  "Oh, you look hot."  Anna smiled to herself.  Soon you won't be looking so hot Amber Dane.  You'll be sorry that you ever messed with Anna Smitt.  Anna must have continued smiling because Amber asked, "You okay?"  "Yeah, I'm fine." 

 

Anna mouthed, "Be ready", to her clique.  Anna and her clique followed Amber unto the stage.  They got everyone's attention, all eyes were on them.  Amber grabbed a microphone, and at the same time Anna reached for one.  "How many of you here like Anna?"  A bunch of people stood and clapped and whistled.  Anna smiled and curtsied.  "How about her clique, the Annettes?"  People continued clapping.  Amber smiled at her, "What I like most though about Anna is her fashion sense.  This girl can accessorize with anything.  Last week she wore a waxed fruit in her hair.  But when I say she can accessorize, I mean, she can even use food choices."  Amber looked to the leftside of backstage, the girls there whispered to her, "It's not here."  "Um", Amber said nervously. 

 

"Thanks Amber. You know, I feel the same way about this girl.  She can really add some flare to any ensemble.  I mean, she even wears maple syrup sometimes."  Amber's smile left her face.  Tanya and Leah poured syrup all over Amber.  Amber screamed.  "Oh, and that's not all.  She loves to put ketchup and mustard in her hair.  It's how she makes it look so glossy."  Dara and Bri squirted ketchup and mustard into Amber's hair.  "Oh, and let's not forget the face cream she uses.  How else do you keep those blackheads away?"  Leah and Tanya squirted whip cream onto her face.  Everyone in the audience was cracking up.  "Wanna hear what's next?"  "What?" The audience yelled back.  Anna pulled it  out of her purse, it was a cherry.  "This goes on top of her head.  It's the same size of her brain!"  Everyone laughed even harder.  Amber had tears in her eyes.  "Want to know what's next?" Anna whispered to Amber.  "Whatever it is, just do it", Amber whispered back.  "Amber likes to use a certain talent of hers after school."  A picture appeared on the screen then of Amber in a weird costume, singing.  "She likes to yodel!"  Some people fell out of their seats in the audience, they were laughing so hard.  "How'd you find out about the yodeling?" Amber whispered.  "My two bestfriends were yours before", Anna whispered.  "Well, there you have it folks.  Amber Dane is a yodeling clown with a cherry-sized brain.  Would you like to hear her yodel?"  Everyone stood and chanted, "Yodel! Yodel! Yodel!"  Amber instead ran down the stairs of the stage and planned to make a break for it.  Leah had poured some syrup there to make it slippery.  Amber went sliding on the floor and fell.  She went rolling until she landed with her skirt up showing off her pink underwear to everyone.  Everyone took out their cameras and took pictures and laughed.  Anna's entire clique was sitting on the stage cracking up.  Anna no longer was.  Amber tried to get up, but slipped and fell back down.  She got up and ran to the door, sobbing the entire way. 

 

Anna felt sick to her stomach.  She called her mom to come pick her up.  Judy did.  Anna got into the car, it was obvious she had been crying.  "What's wrong?" Judy asked.  Anna shook her head, "I just don't feel well."  "Perhaps it's your period?"  Anna shook her head, "No, that isn't it."  "I feel like you're falling away from me Anna.  I can't help you if you don't talk to me."  "Mom, I don't feel well.  I just want to go to bed." 

 

Anna got home at around 3:00.  She put on her pjs and got into bed.  She cried for Amber.  How could I be so awful?  The way she was crying.  I'm worse then Amber.  Amber never did anything like that.  Of course she was going to do that to me today.  But Amber does have more reason to be angry with me.  I mean, I stole her throne.  Amber never really did anything to me.  Anna got up and went into Lily's room.  She saw a blue book from under her bed.  "What?"  Anna picked it up, it was Lily's diary.  The years documented were from the time Lily was in 8th grade until her death.  She opened to a page and read:

 

Dear Diary:

I want to die.  I wish I could kill myself.  Tonight I did something horrible.  There's a girl at school, Natalie Watts.  She's really pretty and super rich.  My friends all like her and I knew she could be a threat to me.  So I got this plan, I told Stormy I wanted to plan a 'Bring The Biggest Loser' party.  Stormy of course complained, "Lily, that's so mean.  Come on, can we please have a different type of party.  I don't want to do that."  I just threatened to stop being her friend unless she did it.  Sometimes Stormy makes me sick, she has no backbone whatsoever. 

 

Anyway, I invited Natalie.  She's not really a loser.  I just wanted to hurt her.  You should have seen the way her eyes lit up when I invited her to a party.  She was all like, "Oh my gosh!  Are you serious?  You're inviting me?"  I just gave her my sweet smile and the address.  She came tonight and we were all having a good time.  Then I went up and said, "Attention everyone.  We have a suprise for you.  If you were invited by someone to this party, please come up here."  About twenty girls came up.  Natalie was one of them, she was smiling at me, her new bestfriend.  I continued, "This is a 'Bring The Biggest Loser' party.  You're all invited because you're losers!"  Natalie started crying, other girls just looked around shocked.  All of my friends were laughing, except for Stormy.  Anyway, I then made the girls who invited them come up and plead their case about why that person is the biggest loser.  The ring of humiliation went round and round.  I went last, I recited a poem about how ugly and dumb and slutty she was. The entire time she cried and then ran out. 

 

Everyone was clapping for me.  I just smiled and played it off.  Really I felt sick to my stomach, I wanted to throw up.  I can't believe how mean I can be.  It makes me sick to see how much of a bully I am.  I think if I killed myself no one would really mind  This world would be a better place without someone like me.

 

 

Anna closed the diary and held it to her heart and cried some more.  Lily was mean, and now I'm just like her.  Maybe worse.  Anna went back to her room and put the diary under her bed.  She got into bed and slept.  At around 6:00 in the evening she was being shaken.  "What?" She asked, from under her covers.  "Sit up", Stormy said.  Anna sat up, "What are you doing here?"  "I'm done!"  "I beg your pardon?"  "I'm done being you're 'popularity consultant' or whatever it is you call it."  "Why?" "Why?  That, that was so mean.  I went in the bathroom aftewards and Amber was in there shaking she was crying so hard.  I started talking to her, do you know half the crap she faces at home?"  "Like what?"  Her dad's an alcoholic and her mom's having an affair and just filed for divorce yesterday.  She has a twenty year old brother who's in rehab because he's a druggie and she's suicidal."  "Suicidal?" Anna asked, shocked.  "Yeah, she wants to kill herself.  She's seriously considering it now.  I spent an hour with her convincing her not to."  "Well she's not going to, so we're cool."  "No, wrong!  I can't believe you.  You watched her cry and didn't care.  You're just as bad as Lily. No, probably worse.  Lily would feel bad afterwards.  You seem to love the feeling you get from hurting people.  It gives you a high, doesn't it?"  "Shut up!  You don't know what you're talking about."  "I know that this was a mistake.  You were nice before.  Now you're just horrible.  I'm out of here.  I hope you stop being popular.  That's the only way you'll be able to stop the way you're acting."  Stormy walked out, "Bye."  

 

Anna couldn't believe what Stormy said to her.  "Whatever, who cares what she thinks?  I don't", Anna said aloud to herself.  Her phone rang, "Hello?" "Hey, it's Sarah."  "Hey.  Do you hate me?"  "Yeah, I do.  I can't believe you did that.  That was so hard for me to watch.  Not only did I feel bad for Amber, but it may have been even harder for me to watch you up there.  Because I know you and that's not you.  It was like Lily and got into your body.  I'm done being your spy and friend."  "What else is new?"  Sarah hung up on her.

 

Anna put down her phone, "Now I can finally sleep."  Her phone rang again, "Hello?" She answered.  "Hey Anna."  It was Cameron.  "Cameron.  Hey, I missed you today.  Are you feeling better?" "Um, a bit.  The fever went down."  "Good.  You don't know how badly I needed to hear your voice.  I've had quite the day."  "So I hear", Cameron said.  Anna froze, "I'm sorry?"  "Natalie told me all about your little performance.  She had even taped it and showed it to me."  "How much did you see?"  "All the way up to Amber flashing everyone."  She must have been taping it to get my humiliation on camera.  "Are you mad?"  "Mad's an understatement Anna.  I can't believe you.  How could you be so mean to her?  Pouring food on her?  Laughing at her?  I would have preferred seeing little dogs drown then what you did to Amber."  "Oh, come on.  She'll get over it."  "Do you hear yourself Anna?  You have no regard for her feelings, or anyone else's except for your own."  "What are you saying?"  "I'm saying that it's over between us.  This time for good."  "Wait, you're breaking up with me?"  "Yeah, I am."  "But no one breaks up with me."  "Apparently they do."  Cameron then hung up on her.  "Cameron?"  

 

Anna put her face in her hands.  I've lost Stormy, Sarah and Cameron.  It can't get any worse then this.  Anna phone rang again, "Hello?"  "Anna? It's Amber."  Anna felt a lump in her throat.  She wanted to throw up.  "Um, hey Amber.  How'd you get this number?" "I have people for that."  "What can I do for you?"  "You can die", Amber yelled while sobbing.  "Amber, please calm down.  I'm so sorry for what I did to you.  I feel horrible about it."  "Sorry?  Sorry? Oh Anna, you're gonna be sorry.  I don't know how you found out about the plan, but don't worry.  We're coming for you Anna. We'll get you before you know it.  Because of you Kevin broke up with me.  The whole video of what happened is on Youtube and has had four hundred and fifty-eight views so far!"  "Dang, that's a lot of views."  "Oh, don't worry.  I will be avenged."  "Wait Amber-."  Amber hung up the phone on her.  Anna lied back down.  What does she mean she'll get me before I know it? Oh God, save me.  Now I'm getting death threats?  Hm, perhaps I could get some security.  Anna took out her phone and texted her clique: Emergency meeting at my house.  Be here by 7:30.  You can all spend the night.  

 

At around 7:45 all of the girls came in.  Annettes believed in being fashionably late.  "What are they doing here?" Judy asked.  Anna couldn't believe her mom.  Anna led her mom to the kitchen, "Mom, that's so rude!"  "Why are they here?" Judy asked again.  "I invited them over, they're spending the night."  "Oh, they are?" "Yeah."  "I wish I understood you Anna.  One minute you're having a breakdown and the next you want to have a party." "Mom, we're going to go to bed on time.  I just really needed to see my friends."  "I don't even know these people and they're your friends?"  "I'm reading Dr. Carlson's book on how to raise teenage girls."  "Mom, the woman's insane.  She's a cash-grabbinng quack! She doesn't even have a teenage daughter. Man, she doesn't even have a husband!"  "She's still an expert.  She says that you need to know your kid's friends."  "Fine, come on."

 

Judy followed Anna back into the livingroom.  "My mom wants to meet you.  This is Tanya."  Tanya shook Judy's hand, "Thank you for having us over Mrs. Smitt.  That's a lovely sweater you're wearing."  "Why, thank you Tanya."  "This is Leah."  Leah smiled, "Hi Mrs. Smitt."  "This is Dara and Bri."  "Hi", they both said back.  "I can tell where Anna gets her good looks from", Bri said with a smile.  "You girls have a good time", Judy said.  Anna laughed, "Bri, you didn't have to act like you wanted to marry me."  

 

They all went upstairs to Anna's room.  "So what's up Anna?  I mean, I'm missing Betrayal and Love in the Valley for this", Leah said.  "I love that soap opera!" Bri exclaimed.  "Me too", Dara said, "I totally missed last week's episode.  What happened?"  "Jill totally found Lucy making out with her husband", Leah answered.  "What? Jeff totally promised Jill he wouldn't cheat anymore", Tanya said.  "That's not fair though, I mean Lucy totally seduced him", Bri said.  "But I thought Lucy was with that old guy", Dara said.  "Oh, she just used Dr. Wilson for his money.  She's been pining for Jeff since season 3 when he took that bullet for her", Leah said.  "Do you think Jeff's going to leave Jill for Lucy?" Tanya asked Anna.  "I don't watch the show."  "I don't think he'll leave her.  I mean, he's all talk, no action.  Remember in season 4 when he swore he was going to file for divorce from Jill.  He didn't", Leah said.  "Um guys, you're talking about these people like you know them", Anna said, rolling her eyes.  "We may as well know them.  We've followed their lives for five seasons now", Leah said. 

 

Anna took a deep breath.  "Alright, I invited you over because I need to ask you something."  "That would be what?" Tanya asked.  "Was I too tough on Amber?"  All the girls went silent.  They looked to each other to see who'd be willing to say it.  "Alright, fine, you want the truth?" Tanya asked.  "Yeah."  "You were a ruthless bitch!  You were out of control.  I wanted to cry for Amber."  All of the girls nodded in agreement.  Anna brought her knees to her chest and sat in a feeble position, "What am I to do?  She called me and she's planning to come for me.  I'm scared she may kill me."  "Well Sarah will find out their agenda at the next meeting", Leah reasoned.  "No, she won't.  She hates me for what I did to Amber.  I don't have any friends now."  "We're your friends", Tanya said.  "Oh, I mean, of course I have friends. But I don't have as many.  Stormy hates me too."  "At least you still have a hot boyfriend", Dara said.  Anna started crying.  "What is it?" Tanya asked.  "I don't even have that anymore!  Cameron broke up with me."  "You need sleep Anna, you'll feel better in the morning."  Anna got into bed.  While the girls continued their conversation.  Anna went to sleep hearing.  "Jeff's way too hot for Lucy.  She's so fugly."  "I'm predicting he's going to forget Jill and Lucy and go back with Allison."  "No way, he said he wanted nothing to do with Allison anymore."  "Yet when Chuck broke up with her, all she had to do was call him and he came running."

 

Chapter 16:

 

Saturday, Anna's birthday, arrived.  Anna hadn't gotten a call from any of her friends yet.  Anna watched the phone eagerly, "Someone's going to call."  No one did.  Finally the phone rang and Anna jumped for it, "Hello? This is Anna."  "Hey Anna, it's Sarah."  "Sarah, hi."  "Happy Birthday."  "Thank you so much."  "How's it feel to be fifteen?"  "Awesome.  Um, what are you doing today?"  "Nothing, why?"  "Oh, me either.  Want to come over?"  "No thanks, I'm beyond busy with homework."  "You sure?  I could help you with your homework."  "Nah, I also need to clean my room.  Bye."  "Um, thanks for calling.  Bye." 

 

Anna couldn't believe it.  Every year Sarah made a huge deal out of Anna's birthday.  She'd take her out and she'd buy her two gifts, always.  Anna waited for a phone call.  She laid down in bed and thought of her 14th birthday.  Lily and Sarah had gone with her to the mall and bought her a bunch of stuff.  Lily was good with birthdays too.  She'd always get Anna the best gifts.  

 

At around 2 in the afternoon, Judy entered her room. Judy had been out that day at a school teacher's meeting.  "Happy Birthday!"  Anna gave her mom a hug, "How'd your meeting go?" "It was so boring. Guess what?"  "What?" "You get to open your presents now.  Then tonight I'm taking you out to a very expensive restaurant, so wear a cocktail dress."  "An expensive restaurant?  Mom, are you sure?  We don't have that much money and-."  "Hey, no talking about money today. Only the best for my girl."  Anna went downstairs with her mom and opened her presents.  She got a digital camera, makeup, a cocktail dress for the restaurant that night, and a Starbucks gift card.  "Thank you mom, I love the gifts."  

 

Anna was checking her phone like maniac.  She got some text messages from a few non-populars who had gotten her number in middle school.  Anna heard the doorbell, "I'll get it", she called to her mom.  She opened the door to see a present on the porch and Stormy getting in her car. Ana picked it up, "Happy Birthday", Stormy called to her.  Stormy then drove off.

 

Anna went inside and sat down on the couch.  She unwrapped the present.  The 3 Musketeers is what it said on the cover.  She opened it and it was a scrapbook of her, Stormy and Lily.  They had pictures of them at sleepovers together, eating junk food, dancing badly.  Anna laughed as she looked at the pictures of them on vacations together and at the beach.

 

Anna got ready at around 5.  She put on her new cocktail dress.  It was hot pink, strapless and really short on her, she was surprised her mom had actually bought it for her.  She did her makeup and curled her hair into ringlets.

 

About an hour and a half later Judy called to her, "Ready Anna?"  "Yeah, I'm ready."  Anna came down the stairs.  Her mom and her got into the car and they stopped at a redlight.  Judy pulled out a bandana and wrapped it around Anna's eyes.  "What are you doing?"  Anna asked.  "I'm blindfolding you."  "Why?"  "I don't want you to see where I'm taking you.  It's a surprise."  "Where'd you get a bandana from?"  "I don't know.  I think it was your dad's."

 

The car finally stopped.  Judy got out and walked over to the passenger's seat.  She opened the door for Anna and helped her out.  Anna felt like she was walking on grass, then concrete.  "Where are we?"  "Wait a second."  Judy opened a door, it was silent.  "Where are we?" Anna asked.  "Open your eyes."  All of her friends were standing there, "Surprise!" They shouted.  Anna looked back in shock, she was at Cameron's mansion.  "What? What's all this?"  "Duh! A party for you!" Tanya yelled.  Anna screamed, "Oh my gosh!  You all did this for me?" "Yes", they yelled back.  Anna noticed Amber was standing in the background in a dark green halter dress glaring at Anna.  "Well, I hope you have a ton of fun.  You're going to spend the night at Tanya's", Judy said.  "You aren't staying?" Anna asked.  "No thanks, I'm going out with some friends tonight." Anna gave her mom a hug, "I love you."  "I love you too.  I'm glad you were born", Judy said.  Then she left.

 

"Now that the birthday gal's here, let's party!" Tanya screamed into a microphone.  The song, "Paper Planes" by MIA started blasting through the speakers.  All the kids started dancing. Anna ran to her clique, "I can't believe you guys did this all for me."  "Yeah, well you better be getting us a check soon", Leah said with a laugh.  Anna saw Sarah dancing with her boyfriend, Charlie.  She walked up to her. "Sarah?"  Sarah turned around, "Happy Birthday Anna."  Anna gave her a hug. "Hi Charlie, I'm Anna."  Charlie smirked, "Everyone knows who you are."  "I'm a bit surprised to see you here."  "I was invited a while ago.  I bought a dress, so yeah."  "It's a nice dress", Anna complimented.  Sarah was wearing a dark purple a strapless dress that went into a bubble skirt.  "Thanks. Well, you better go make your rounds."  Anna couldn't believe it. Was Sarah actually trying to avoid her? She'd cry if she weren't at a party.

 

She saw Cameron flirting with some girls. She walked over to him. "Happy Birthday Anna", he said. "Um, hey.  I'm a bit surprised to see my party's at your house."  "Yeah, well I had promised you guys could have it here.  Didn't want to go back on my word or anything."  "Well thank you very much.  Cameron?" "What?" "Do you think we could still be friends?  I mean, just because we aren't dating doesn't mean we can't hang out, you know?"  "No, I don't know. I know that I can never be your friend because I like you too much for that." "Then why won't you go out with me?"  "Because the Anna I like isn't the Anna you are now.  I liked the Anna I talked to at Starbucks, the Anna who was so shy and timid on her first day of high school.  If I had wanted to date an Amber copy I could have had the original." Anna rolled her eyes, "Whatever Cameron.  Thanks for allowing me the place."  With that she stomped off.

 

Anna danced and socialized for hours.  She couldn't help noticing that all of the Anna-Haters were there.  She whispred to Tanya, "Why are they here?" "Who?" "Brad and Angelina.  Who else?  The Anna-Haters. You know, the ones who want me dead."  "Oh, them.  I don't know. Everyone was just kinda invited.  We thought the more people the merrier."  "Oh, well they're acting like they love me or something."  "Just be glad that you get gifts from people who hate you."  

 

It was around 11:00pm.  "Time for presents and cake!" Leah shouted into the microphone.  Anna opened all of her gifts, there was about 300 people at the party and she had a ton of stuff.  She must have gotten about ten ipods.  Then a huge box was left.  "What?  This is huge!  Who brought this?"  Anna red the tag, "From your secret admirer."  "Awww", the girls chorused.  The guys turned to each other, "Is it it you?"  "No, is it you?"  Anna took the top off of the box. Amber was in it with a bucket of lime green paint that she poured all over Anna."  Anna screamed, "What are you doing?" Amber laughed and got out of the box.  "You don't wear the shade of green very well."  Natalie poured a smaller bucket of purple paint on her, "Or purple very well, either."  Three girls Anna didn't know came out with buckets of orange, pink and black paint and splashed at her.  "Stop it", Anna screamed, "my mom just got me this dress." "Who cares? It's ugly anyway!" Amber said with a laugh.  "Oh, but I just love the fabric", Natalie said feeling it.  She then ripped it."  "Stop that!"  "Oh yes", Amber said in an evil voice, "the dress is just lovely."  Amber ripped it too in the stomach area.  "You stop it now!" Tanya said.  "Oh Tanya, you're dress is lovely as well", Amber said to her formerly best friend.  Tanya was wearing a red dress. "Hey, let's add some brown to that ensemble", Amber said, coming towards her former best friend with a bucket of brown paint.  "You get one little drop of brown paint on my dress and I'll kick your skinny ass."  Amber stopped coming towards Tanya.  She knew Tanya well enough to know Tanya meant what she said.  "Well, in that case, Anna needs some brown", Amber said, splashing it all over her.  Anna went to hit Amber, but Amber pushed her down and laughed at her. "We all hate you!" Amber said.  Anna ran out of the house, sobbing.

 

Anna ran as fast as she could.  She was on a mission to get to the Watts gate.  She had no idea how she was getting home.  She didn't even care.  She ran faster and faster.  Why would Amber do that? I mean, today's my birthday.  Who could be that mean?  Anna's thoughts were interrupted as someone grabbed her wrist.  She immediately assumed it was a kidnapper, "Aaaaaaaaah!" She screamed at the top of her lungs.  "Stop screaming."  It was Sarah.  Anna was sobbing so hard she felt like she could barely breath.  Anna didn't know why, but she wrapped her arms around Sarah and sobbed.  She was shaking, uncontrollably.  She had never cried that hard before.  "It's alright Anna, it's alright", Sarah said.  "No it's not!" Anna choked out between sobs.  "Look at me, I'm a wreck.  And I'm getting paint all over you."  Sarah rolled her eyes, "I don't care."  "What's happening back there?"  "I'm not Tanya, when a friend's in trouble I don't wait back there to get the good gossip."  "Oh, Amber's gonna get it. Her entire group's going to get it", Anna screamed.  Sarah hugged her, "You can spend the night at my house."  Anna sat down on the floor and cried some more.  Sarah sat down by her and called her mom, "Mom? Yeah, it's Sarah.  Um, can you pick me and Anna up? You don't mind if Anna sleeps over, do you?  I know I said 1' in the morning, but this is a bit of an emergency.  Jeff will?  Cool.  Thanks."  Sarah hung up her IPhone.  "Jeff will be here soon."  Anna nodded her head and cried.  Sarah went into her huge bag and pulled out a box of Kleenex, "Tissue?"  Anna grabbed one and started wiping her eyes. She blew her nose and then offered it back to Sarah.  "I'm good", Sarah replied.

 

Jeff's Porsche pulled up.  Anna and Sarah walked out to the car and got in.  Anna sat in the backseat, sulking.  Sarah got into the front.  Jeff had seen Anna when she pulled up, she was covered in paint.  "Happy Birthday Anna.'