Sweet Evil Fangs

I faltered on the ground, struggling to keep my balance as I ran for my life. I could barely feel my feet after running for so long. I didn't need to look back. I couldn't face those red, chasing eyes. He would slaughter me!

I listened to his yelling, each roar making my knees weak. I pressed my hands to my ears in fear as I lurched along the rough pathway. I didn't know where to go. I had no idea how I ended up in the woods, running for my life. My breath hitched, fatigue gnawing at me. I needed to stop and take a deep breath, but every time I heard his animalistic shriek, I reminded myself I couldn't.

I had only ever read about such things in books and seen them in movies. Every time I squinted, flashbacks of what had just happened consumed me. The way blood spread like it was nothing. The way light glinted off his fangs, shining in my vision. Something I couldn't have imagined had become real.

My foot hit something hard, nearly making me lose my balance. I stumbled against a tree but managed to grab hold before falling. I cursed under my breath, pressing my hands to my chest where my heart pounded wildly. My heartbeat was far from its usual rhythm.

"W-what is that...thing?" I whispered, glancing back. I thought I had lost him, as I could neither see nor hear him anymore.

I let out a shaky moan and rested my head against the tree. He had slaughtered someone-and that was nothing like anything I had ever seen before! I put my hand on my head, trying to comprehend what was happening. I had been too shocked to speak earlier, but my first instinct had been to run, to hide from his terrifying gaze. My hands trembled, so I tried to calm myself.

"I'm probably hallucinating," I muttered, forcing a laugh as I tried to push away the uneasiness. I looked up at the tree-and suddenly, all the color drained from my face. Red eyes. Broad, sharp teeth. I froze, dazed, unable to move. When a drop of drool fell onto my temple, that was it-I lost it.

I screamed in terror. I could feel my heart hammering in my chest. I was about to run when he pounced over me, pinning me to the messy grass. Pain shot through me as my head hit a rock, but it didn't matter-I was face-to-face with a werewolf!

"P-Please..." I stammered, completely at a loss for words. He had been human earlier...then turned into this monster!

He didn't respond. I swallowed hard as I felt him sniffing my face, smelling me. I couldn't push him away-he was too heavy. Yet, despite the danger, I couldn't help noticing details. Even as a half-wolf, hints of his human features remained.

I had been walking down the road earlier when I saw him murder a man with his claws. His face had been turned away, so I hadn't seen it clearly. But now, close up, I couldn't stop staring at his human eyes. There was something in them, a need...for me? But what could it be?

I swallowed hard, unsure where I found the courage to reach out and touch his face. His eyes softened when they met mine. It was as if his gaze was pulling me into another dimension, suffocating me, dragging me under. Just as my fingers brushed his cheek, he opened his mouth wide-and then I woke up.

A loud shriek from my alarm clock jolted me upright. My breath came in fast, shallow gasps as I looked around. I was in my bed. I touched my face and let out a shaky sigh of relief.

It had just been a dream. But it had felt so real-I could've sworn he had eaten me. Whatever. Who even believes in werewolves? They only exist in books and movies. I swung my legs off the bed and stretched. My legs wobbled, but I managed to stand. I glanced at the digital clock.

I was late...again.

This wasn't the first time. I was usually too apathetic to wake up on time. But today, I had a good reason: a nightmare. I shook it off and went through my morning routine. Like every typical girl, I stayed up all night watching random videos on my phone, then slept late, forgetting class. I looked down and realized I was wearing mismatched socks.

"Great," I muttered.

I hadn't even combed my hair. I probably looked hideous-the likely reason why I was still a virgin and no one had ever hit on me. I was tired of it. I sometimes wanted to date someone, but whenever the opportunity arose, I'd shrink back into my corner. Yeah, my life was boring. But I loved music, books, nerdy things my classmates found uncool.

When I finally stepped onto campus, people stared as if I had grown five heads. I checked my reflection on my phone. Nothing seemed wrong with my face. They were probably reacting to my messy, damp hair.

"Sh*t," I cursed as the school chime rang. Classes were about to start, and my teacher would close the door to latecomers. I ran, sweat pouring down my face, checking my phone. Our lesson started at 9:00, and I had three minutes to catch up.

Fortunately, the corridors were clear. In previous tardy sprints, I'd bumped into cheerleaders and spilled their coffee. They had been furious, but I had escaped their wrath. I checked my watch-almost time. I saw Mr. Williams, my morning teacher, glancing at his watch, probably counting down.

"WAIT!" I shouted, sprinting. He furrowed his brow, confused.

"What the-?" I saw him murmur.

My legs went numb as I approached, spreading my arms for balance.

"Time's up," he announced, just as I stumbled in front of him.

I exhaled, relieved. He looked at me disapprovingly before motioning me inside. I stood up, smiling, and followed him.

Inside the classroom, forty-five heads turned to look at me, some giggling. I frowned. They were pointing at me. Anxiety surged, and I was fed up.

"Your shirt is on backward," Mr. Williams pointed out, walking to the front.

My face burned with humiliation. I looked down and walked to my seat, hearing whispers and snickers. I muttered under my breath and slammed into my chair. My classmates smirked, but I ignored them, taking out my notepad. Luckily, Mr. Williams began the lesson, sparing me further embarrassment.

As I tuned into his monotone lecture, a student outside caught my attention.

I knew him-Nathan Jones, the most famous guy at Horizon Valley University. He was always the center of attention for every girl. Now that he stood before our class, I understood why. He was tall-at least six feet-with a sharp jaw and perfectly styled hair. His body was toned, with veins standing out on his arms. I swallowed. His fist alone could probably hold my head.

Okay, no joke-this guy was a god. I had thought the rumors were exaggerated.

But there was something else...familiar. Suddenly, memories of my dream flooded back. I nearly jumped as his eyes swept across the room. When they landed on mine, my heart skipped a beat, and my stomach churned.

It was him.

The half-werewolf from my nightmare. But how? Was this a coincidence? He was popular, yet I'd never seen him in our building before-only heard about him.

"Mr. Jones, how can I help you?" Mr. Williams stopped mid-lecture, addressing him.

"Uhm...yeah, so hi. You probably know me, but I'll introduce myself anyway."

He walked confidently to the front, wearing a vexatious smile that, for no reason, made my blood boil. He was exactly the type of man I didn't want to like: arrogant, well-known, and full of himself.

"Hi, I'm Nathan Jones. You can call me Nathan. Since I missed a subject due to my busy schedule-"

I already knew where this was going.

"I'm going to be your new classmate."

The girls cheered excitedly as the announcement ended. Mr. Williams nodded, then pointed to the empty seat in front of me.

"Go sit beside Mr. Smith over there. You're a bit late for the class, so you need to catch up on the lessons."

"Yes, sir!" he said with a joking salute before walking to his seat.

"Hey, Nathan! Glad you're in our class! Listen, can I be on your team?" my classmate Chris begged, eyes sparkling with excitement.

Nathan winked and gave him a thumbs-up. "I got you, man! Let me tell my coach."

Chris nearly cried when Nathan agreed. I heard him whisper something like, you're my hero, before he fainted dramatically. I shook my head and lowered my gaze to the floor. He looked normal to me, but something about him nagged at my mind. Maybe my brain was just playing tricks on me, trying to convince me that Nathan was somehow connected to the man from my dreams who looked exactly like him. But maybe I was just overthinking, so I shook off the thought.

I could still hear him chatting with my classmates-and even asking Natalie out on a date. That was quick, I murmured to myself.

I yelped in surprise when the chair in front of me suddenly yanked toward my face. Laughter and snickers filled the room. Slowly, I looked up and saw Nathan raising an eyebrow at me. My throat went dry as his storm-gray eyes locked on mine, sending a strange chill down my spine.

"Take it easy there, darling," he said with a smug smirk before sitting down. The guys started cheering him on as if terrifying me was an achievement.

My heart pounded wildly. I looked at Nathan again. He was grinning, joking around, and talking to others like nothing happened. He probably heard what I said earlier, which was why he scared me like that. I sighed. I should've kept quiet. Now he probably thought I hated him. Well, maybe I did.

"Class dismissed."

The moment Mr. Williams said those words, I bolted out of the room like lightning. I had no intention of getting involved with a guy like Nathan. He was dangerous.

Rumor had it they were planning a party later. I clicked my tongue. People these days-always chasing alcohol and chaos as if that's the only purpose in life.

The next class went smoothly since Nathan wasn't around anymore. He was only with me in my first subject, Ethics. But when the bell rang for lunch, I knew I was in danger again.

See, the school cafeteria isn't my kind of place. Why? Because everyone gathers there-the varsity players, geeks, fake angels, party freaks, club nerds, and worst of all... cheerleaders. I'm not being dramatic or spreading rumors. I've met them, and they are every bit as awful as the movies make them out to be.

I'd seen them humiliate and mock other students-and I'd been one of their victims. I shuddered at the memory of them pouring juice over my head. Since then, I'd made it a rule to stay far, far away from them. I didn't need that kind of drama in my life.

"Hey! Watch where you're going!"

Lost in thought, I hadn't noticed bumping into another student. Oh, right-I was supposed to be heading to the top floor, where I always ate my lunch. I preferred quiet places over the chaos of the cafeteria.

Students brushed past me, heading downstairs. Good. That meant the rooftop would be empty. The building had eleven floors-yeah, I know, self-destructive much-but it was worth it for a peaceful break. After what felt like forever, I reached the top and almost cried with relief. I dropped to the floor and stayed there for five minutes, catching my breath. If it weren't so gross, I might've kissed the ground.

Finally, I stood up and walked to the railing. The wind brushed against my skin, cool and calming. I breathed in deeply. This was the life I wanted-quiet, distant from everyone else. I set down my bag and opened my lunchbox. Salmon, fried rice, and egg. Perfect.

Just as I took my first bite, I heard something.

"What the-?" I froze. I thought I was alone up here. Maybe it was just the wind?

I shrugged it off and took another bite.

"Ohhh!"

I almost choked. My hand flew to my chest as my heart began to pound. That sound... it was definitely not the wind.

"Faster! Ohhh... ahhh! God, yes, honey! Please, more!"

I froze. I knew those voices. My brain screamed at me to leave, but my feet moved toward the sound instead.

"Ahh! Natalie!"

My jaw dropped. Nathan's bare back and-God help me-he was pounding in and out of my classmate Natalie, who was moaning shamelessly. Their bodies were tangled together like animals.

I dropped my spoon and ran, tears stinging my eyes.

I went straight home that day, locked myself in my room, and cried. I couldn't unsee it. I barely slept and woke up with massive dark circles under my eyes.

I glanced at my reflection in the mirror. The apartment was silent, as always. My parents were gone, and I'd been living alone since. It wasn't a miserable life, but it wasn't easy either.

I still dreamed about them sometimes. In my dreams, they told me to never give my virginity to a man who didn't love me. It sounded silly, but I held on to that. Sometimes, I even saw them in brief visions around the apartment-or maybe I was just scaring myself.

I sighed and decided to take a shower. Tuition was expensive; skipping class wasn't an option.

I stripped and turned on the shower. The hot water ran down my skin, relaxing me-until Nathan's image flashed in my head. His ass. Moving. I screamed and slapped my face. "Oh God! Forget about it!"

Who was to blame here? Him-for using my quiet spot? Or me-for staying and watching even after I knew what was happening?

After a while, I got out, dried myself, and put on jeans and a shirt. Simple, but comfortable. I wasn't old-fashioned; I just didn't get the hype of dressing like you're on a runway at school. Maybe I just lacked the confidence.

"Damn, I'm late."

I looked at the clock, groaned, and rushed to pack my things. I bolted out the door, slamming it behind me. Someone yelled from the hallway-probably complaining about the noise-but I just yelled a quick apology while running down the stairs. On the last step, I slipped and landed on my butt.

"Aren't you the luckiest person this morning?"

I looked up to see my landlady, Mrs. Johnson, sitting on her chair and writing notes.

"Good morning, Mrs. Johnson," I said, standing up and rubbing my sore backside.

"Be careful, honey. You might get yourself killed out there. Maybe a killer will chase you-or a truck will run over you," she said flatly, not even looking at me.

"Yes, Mrs. Johnson. Got it." I rolled my eyes and hurried outside.

When I reached school, I sprinted like my life depended on it. The hallways were empty-everyone was already in class. I glanced at my phone. Great. Eleven a.m. Almost lunch. Perfect.

By the time I reached my classroom, the bell rang. Students poured out like a wave, and I cursed under my breath. Missed my first subject.

"Yeah! Catch up later, bro!"

That voice. I froze.

Nathan.

He walked past me with his friends, girls giggling behind him. I ducked my head quickly, praying he wouldn't notice me.

"Oh yeah, totally, dude! Let's hit Tyler's house this time!"

I waited until they were gone before looking up again. Seeing his back walking away, I sighed in relief. Thank God he didn't see me. I didn't even know how I'd react if he did. The thought alone made me nauseous.

I straightened my bag and walked quietly to my next class, pretending nothing had ever happened.

The next few days went as flat as a pancake. Everything felt quiet, almost dull. Some students still teased and laughed at me for always being alone. The truth? I don't have any friends here. I've tried, but it's hard for me to socialize. My interests are just... different. Most people here like hanging out, partying, or going out after class, while I prefer staying home, reading books, or watching shows.

I was once called a nerd because of that. Someone even said, "Who even reads books these days?"

I wanted to roll my eyes. Duh, I do.

"Okay, class! It's Friday today, and you know the rules!"

The girls groaned while the guys cheered and high-fived each other. For once, I actually relate to them-because I'd forgotten what Friday meant: Physical Education. Ugh. Or as I like to call it, physical torture. Every time we play sports, my classmates somehow find a way to make me the joke. If it's volleyball, I'm the net. If it's basketball, I'm the hoop. And if it's dodgeball-well, I'm the first target.

"Go to your lockers in the gymnasium and change into your P.E. uniforms," Mr. Brown, our subject teacher and varsity coach, announced, blowing his whistle right in our faces.

I muttered under my breath, low enough so he wouldn't hear me. That whistle isn't mandatory-he just likes feeling powerful with it, like it gives him control over the world. I rolled my eyes and walked toward the lockers as my classmates chattered and changed.

I honestly don't get it. I'm a graduating student. Why are we still required to take minor subjects like P.E.? But then again, I missed a few minor ones in my lower years. I need to pass this class to graduate-and finally leave this place.

I can't wait to travel out of country someday and maybe fall in love with someone. The thought made me pause mid-step. It was the first time I'd ever imagined something like that.

Maybe... I've been alone for too long.

I shook the thought away and mentally tossed it in the trash. No time for drama. With a sigh, I continued walking toward the gym. My heart pounded in my chest like a drum. I didn't even know what sport we'd be playing today. It sucks being an irregular student-you never know what you're walking into.

But can you blame me? I've had no time before. Between cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping, and working nights to make ends meet, I could barely attend classes.

Inside the gym, a few guys were already playing basketball, running back and forth like wild beasts fighting for their prey. The winner gets the prize, I guess. I never understood sports. Maybe I just hate them because of all the humiliation tied to them. Either way, I was fine staying on the sidelines.

"Listen up!"

That annoying whistle blared again. We gathered around Coach Brown in a circle. He rested his hands on his hips, scanning us with that stern "I own you" look.

"Today, we're playing a sport you haven't tried before."

"Oh boy," I muttered, half excited, half nervous.

"In this sport, you need to be fast, strong, and most importantly, use this-" he tapped his temple "-your brain."

Someone raised their hand. Coach nodded at them.

"But sir," the kid said, "there's nothing inside your head."

My jaw dropped. Coach Brown just got roasted. Some students choked on their laughter while others cheered. I wanted to laugh too but restrained myself.

"One-hour detention!" Coach barked, his face red. The kid smirked and left the gym, clearly pleased with himself. Lucky him-he just escaped P.E.

"All of you! Shut up, or I'll fail your grades!"

I froze like a statue, swallowing hard. When he started pacing in front of us, hands behind his back, I silently prayed. I couldn't afford to fail.

"Change of plans," he said darkly. "We're playing something difficult today."

"Oh, that Sebastian is so lucky," a guy beside me muttered. "I'm gonna beat him to a pulp."

Poor Sebastian, I thought. He'd started a war.

"You have five minutes to change into your P.E. uniforms! Anyone late-even by one second-fails!"

Before I could even blink, chaos erupted. Students rushed toward the lockers, shoving and tripping over each other. Someone stepped on my foot, and I stumbled to the floor. I coughed but pushed myself up, ignoring the pain. Time was ticking, and the locker rooms were probably already full.

I hurried over and spun my locker combination with trembling hands. Panic buzzed around me like static-no one wanted to be late after that threat. When I finally got my uniform, I headed for the bathroom to change.

But just as I was about to close the stall door, someone banged on it.

"Open up! I was here first!"

I ignored the voice, trying to hurry. I hung my clothes over the door, quickly undressing. But when I reached for my P.E. uniform-it wasn't there. My hands grasped nothing but air. My stomach dropped.

My clothes were gone. All of them.

"Hey! Who took my clothes?!" I shouted. Laughter echoed outside.

"That's for not letting us in first!" a familiar girl's voice yelled.

My blood ran cold. "No... please! Give me my clothes back!"

Nothing. Just more laughter fading away.

I was trapped-stripped, humiliated, and helpless. I couldn't go out like this. I hugged myself, trembling. Tears burned my eyes as I sat on the cold floor.

Hours must have passed. The bell rang outside, signaling the end of classes. I wiped my cheeks, but it was useless. What choice did I have? I couldn't stay here forever. But I also couldn't walk home naked. The thought made me want to disappear.

I took a deep breath, combed my hair back with my fingers, and slowly opened the stall door. The cold air hit my skin like ice. I stepped out-only to freeze in horror.

Right in front of me, Nathan was making out with a cheerleader.

I gasped, too shocked to move. Why didn't I hear them come in?! My first instinct was to rush back inside, but it was too late. They both turned and stared at me.

Nathan's eyes widened, then narrowed. The cheerleader covered her mouth in shock before smirking.

"Oh my god," she said, standing up. "I know you! You're that loner kid-what's your name again?"

I looked away, hiding my face behind my hair. She didn't need to remember my name to know who I was. She'd bullied me before. They all had.

"I can't wait to post this online," she sneered, pulling out her phone.

My heart pounded so hard it drowned everything else out. I wanted to move, to grab something to cover myself, but I couldn't. My body wouldn't listen. Tears welled in my eyes. Why can't I move? Why am I letting her do this?

"Stop that," Nathan said suddenly.

His voice was calm-but sharp. I looked up just as he grabbed her wrist. His grip was tight enough to make her wince.

"You're hurting me!" she cried, but he didn't budge. He yanked her phone from her hand and hurled it against the wall. It shattered instantly, pieces scattering across the tiles.

My jaw dropped. The cheerleader stood there, speechless.

"Get out," Nathan said coldly. His tone sent chills down my spine. For a second, I saw something dark in his eyes-something that reminded me of the nightmare I'd had before.

"You're going to pay for this!" she shouted, snatching her hand away. Tears streamed down her face as she ran out, covering herself in embarrassment.

For a moment, I felt bad for her. Then I remembered she was about to post a picture of me naked.

Nah-she deserved it.

"Hey," Nathan said.

Before I could respond, something warm draped over my shoulders. I flinched and realized it was his jacket. My eyes widened. I'd almost forgotten I was still completely exposed. My face burned as I clutched the coat tightly, turning away from him.

"I'm sorry about that. You must be-"

I ran away from him.