Chapter Text

What is happening.

I don't feel right. My body… It feels… Different?

Where am I?

What's that noise? Is that the wind? Why is it so loud?

Wait!? I can feel it. It's raining… No, storming!?

I… I can see a little better. It's still dark, but there's trees, and… and… A large light in the sky?

The Lighthouse! I… I know a lighthouse, or I think I do?

Oh man, Is that the storm!? It's going to destroy the town.

I have to do something. I have to save… ugh, why can't I think straight.

There's something important here I can feel it.

It's like this pull, whatever there is of me needs to be here.

Wait… is that… is that a girl laying on the ground there.

Oh no, why is she here. She needs to get out of here.

No… that's not it. She needs to be here. No, the lighthouse! She needs to get to the lighthouse.

Ugh, I can't move. I need to help her. She has to get to the lighthouse.

Please!? She's confused, she doesn't know where to go. If only she could see me.

I need to move! I have to show her where to go! I have to save…

Chloe?

Out of the corner of my eye I saw Chloe Price bump into some tatted and pierced up older dude spilling his beer on himself. Guess that was her I saw trying to get past the bouncer. Looks like she managed it, well done. Guess the years of sticking it to the "man" paid off tonight. Ever since her father died she'd gone the cliché rebellious teen. She could do with some growing up, the world doesn't owe you anything. You have to go out and take it for yourself. Still, I can't help but to see the poetry in what she's doing. At least she's free to be how she wants. I have to play my part. To be the perfect honor student of the DA. I could hear it now; what people would say seeing me here? What is Rachel Amber doing at a moshfest like this? Whoa I didn't know Rachel Amber could be so hardcore. As if people could ever really know or understand. They could never see past my big shot lawyer dad.

And why should they. I didn't see it.

Actually, I think Chloe's just the person I need.

Looking back at the entrance she wasn't there. They guy she bumped was talking with someone else in a black baseball hat. There was no way to hear what they were saying, but the tattooed one pointed around the corner and waved for his friend to follow.

That can't be good.

I pushed my way through the crowd of headbangers and fist pumpers to the entrance. Looking around the room I just caught a glimpse of someone turning the corner up the stairs. I paused a moment thinking it over. Who was Chloe Price to me. I stood there looking at the stairs debating on going back to the concert, but then I thought of my dad. The weird behavior and messages he was sending. What it could mean for my mom and I. I could feel a small rush of hatred flow into me. No one deserves to be messed with.

"Fucking guys." I muttered.

I gave chase. Putting one foot on the stairs I felt the wood give a bit. Well if those guys made it up I should have no problem. As I turned the corner I could hear the music grow louder.

"She thinks she can take you!" I could just hear the voice coming from the second floor. As I took a few steps up I could just see what was going on. The tattooed guy smashed a beer bottle against the pillar next to him and grabbed Chloe's arm.

No. Not happening.

"Hey! Dickhead!" I called out throwing my arms to the side. The three of them all turned to look at me. C'mon Chloe just get out of there.

Chloe instead put her arms around the shoulders of the tattooed guy who held her and gave him a hard knee to the balls. Damn, Chloe Price is pretty badass. The guy in the hat though stepped up and swung a left hook at Chloe hitting her hard in the side of the head. Dammit Chloe just c'mon.

Clutching her face she stumbled over toward me and the stairs bumping into me. We locked eyes for a moment. Her face shifting from pain to confused recognition.

"Rachel?"

We can't do this now. Our heads turned in sync to see the ballcap guy picking his tattooed friend up who still had one hand clutching his junk. We don't have much more time.

I reached down and grabbed Chloe's hand, "C'mon." and pulled her back down the stairs. As we turned the corner on the stairs Chloe held back to take a look up the stairs. We needed to get into the crowd fast, "Hurry Up."

As she finished coming down the stairs I grabbed her hand again and began quickly dragging her toward the stage. Just as we were about the turn the corner when she pulled out of my hand again. She was looking back at a guy getting up off the couch. Is that your boyfriend or something Chloe c'mon let's just go. I stood just behind Chloe as the guy turned to see the assholes coming down the stairs. He did a double take and then turned to block the guys from passing.

"Let me go Frank!" the tattooed man yelled out. Trying to push past the guy.

"Not gonna happen." Frank said making himself wide to block both of the guys. "Calm down."

Wow, Chloe must know this guy. I turned back at Chloe who was watching the action with a slight smile on her face. I'm all for taking in victories, but we should get out of here.

"Walk away," Frank said with a tone of finality.

"Screw this." The tattooed guy said defeated.

With the situation ending, I reached down and grabbed Chloe's hand and blew the skeeve's a kiss with the other. Chloe elected to flip off them off as I dragged her into the pit. We pushed and shoved until we got right up to the front of the stage. I could feel my heart pounding to the music as I filled with adrenaline. I tossed my head back and forth letting myself go. No responsibilities, No expectations, It was just me and the music. I took a glance at Chloe who seemed to be in near the same place as me. He eyes were closed and she jumped around to the rhythm of the music.

We spent the rest of the concert like that. No words, just dancing. Letting ourselves get it all out. Song after song of just high energy rock. It was actually kind if magical. Even after the band stopped Chloe and I snapped a picture and had a few beers just talking about the night. And that's all it was. There was no bullshit with her. She wasn't putting on a show to impress Rachel Amber. She was all in on the moment. The light in her eyes, the flush in her cheeks. While I was already being dragged back into reality. To the nightmare that tomorrow could bring.

Maybe… Maybe I could have Chloe there.

Chloe tilted her head back and finished off the last of her beer.

"So Chloe," I said as people started to clear out. She tilted her head like a curious puppy, "see you tomorrow at school then?"

"What? Oh school, eh right," she gave the back of her head a sheepish scratch.

I stood up and offered her my hand. She took it and I pulled her up. She took a second to steady herself. Hopefully she didn't have too much to drink, "Get home safe okay?"

"I'm… totally fine." She said with a smile of false confidence.

I raised my eyebrow in suspicion. Chloe Price has made it this far without stumbling onto a railroad track or something. She'll be fine.

"See ya around Chloe Price," I said as I made my way out if the mill.

"Er, yea you too." Her voice trailed off, "Rachel Amber."

"Hey dear, did you have a good night?" My mom asked as I came down for breakfast.

"It was. I think the cast and I got a lot of stress out. Who knew bowling could be so therapeutic." I walked up next to my mom, "here let me help you." I said as I took over scrambling the eggs.

"Oh thank you dear," she said as she wiped her hands. "Oh by the way," she took a quick walk over to the closet, and came back carrying my Prospera costume. "I took it in for you last night."

"Thank you Mom, It looks perfect." She gave a smile as she brought it back toward the front door.

In spite of everything, I loved having my mom around to help. My mind started to drift though as I helped with breakfast. The text message I found on my dad's phone. Being a DA he takes all kinds of meetings and sometimes the people are questionable. This was different though. I'll see you at our spot under the tree. Nothing about that felt okay. Pair it with my dad's newly erratic work schedule and this screams all manner of shady. Well today I'm going to get to the bottom of it.

My mom and I shared a quick breakfast talking about the upcoming play. She was very excited to see it. The lead role was changed from a male character to female just for me. Mr. Keaton really wanted this production to go well, and the male talent pool this year is… Limited. I helped my mom clean up and then grabbed my things, including my Prospera costume, and headed for the bus.

There wasn't many people around this early at Blackwell. Mostly just staff and the students who have morning activities such as myself. I dropped my things off at my locker and headed to the drama room for morning reads. I wasn't scheduled today, but with the show tomorrow and a few cast mates still struggling it would be best to help out. I changed in the dressing room and took a look in the mirror. My mom did a great job on taking it in to fit me better. Prospero might have worn some tattered old robes, but Prospera has slightly better tastes.

I took a deep breath as I looked at myself in the mirror. These weren't show nerves. These were tremors at the start of something completely earth shaking. I wanted the truth, but I also wanted to truth to just be a misunderstanding. That I had read into things wrong. It might not be often that I misread someone, but it happens. I mean Chloe puts on her hardcore give zero fucks persona, but underneath she's lonely. I can see her push people away so that they can't hurt her. She let that down last night when she was backed into a corner. And I was there for her to run to. Giving her a night I'm sure she'll remember. Firewalk with Rachel Amber. I mean facebook is already blowing up over our picture that I posted. I wonder if Chloe is here yet. I bet I could get her to come with me no questions asked. I mean who wouldn't want to go on an adventure with Rachel Amber.

I took in my costumed look, "ah fuck it," I whispered out and left the drama room. I did a scan of the classrooms just to make sure I didn't miss her. Most of the rooms and halls were empty. Even many of the teachers like being out when they can. I was just looking in the photography room when I saw Chloe sitting on a picnic table with Steph and Drew's little brother. I stepped up to the window to get a closer look. Chloe rolled a twenty-sided dice and both she and Mikey celebrated. I didn't know Chloe did role playing. I watched Chloe finish up and head toward the entrance when she was bumped into Nathan Prescott who was being followed by Drew North. And it didn't look like Chloe was going to stay out of it.

"You have no idea how crazy I am. Keep pushing, and find out." Chloe was holding her ground.

"You want a piece of this?" Drew asked holding out his hands.

Going to get yet another black eye now Chloe?

"You mean your budding bromance with Nathan? You're clearly into him. Just pull his hair, already" Chloe snapped.

I watched Drew then turn to Samantha, "Did you just laugh?"

"I did. Chloe just owned you." Samantha said with confidence

I couldn't help but laugh inside. Chloe really seems to be fearless. I could definitely use some of that today. I left the window and headed out of the classroom. I walked toward the door and pushed it open.

Right into Chloe.

We both just stared at each other for a second. Alright then time to lay on the Rachel Amber for this to work.

"Oh, good! You're here." I said and then grabbed her hand and pulled her inside. The rest of the cast must be in the drama room by now. It would be the perfect way to get her out of her element. I pulled her through the halls to Mr. Keaton's room.

I could hear Hayden going over his lines.

"I do Beseech you, chiefly that I might set it in my prayers: what is your name?"

Chloe and I stepped in and let the scene play out.

"Miranda… Oh, my father! I have broke your hest to say so!" recited Juliet

"Good!" Encouraged Mr. Keaton.

Hayden continues, " Admired Miranda! Indeed worth what's dearest in the world! Many a lady I have eyed with best regard, and many a time hath listened-" Hayden began to lose his line. I can't believe it the show is tomorrow. I looked over my shoulder at Chloe. She smiled politely out of confusion as the scene burned down before her.

Mr. Keaton cut into the stumbling Hayden, "Hayden! You're killing me! You've had weeks to be off book."

"Sorry, Mr. Keaton."

"No, don't apologize to me. Apologize to your scene partner, who's been very accommodating, and to your other fellow actors, and most of all, to yourself-"

I think it's time to diffuse the situation. Hayden doesn't need to be full of doubt right before the play. "Mr. Keaton," I said literally stepping into the conversation, " sorry to interrupt, but does this look better? I had my mom take it in a bit."

I took a turn on my toes to show the costume to the room. I could feel everyone's eyes on me, which usually wasn't unnerving, but I could feel Chloe's above everyone else. As I finished the first turn my plans with Chloe came to the forefront of my mind. I really needed her to come with me. I turned again and this time sought out Chloe's eyes. When they met mine I gave a reassuring wink. I hope all this unfamiliar territory doesn't scare her away. I need to bring her in, to show her that I want her to be here. To be with me.

"Mrrowww! Looking good, Rache." purred Juliet

"Very cool," approved Hayden

"Exquisite, Rachel. As always." Mr. Keaton said with a tone of relief.

Juliet then brought the focus back onto the scene, " Mr. Keaton, I'm still having trouble with, 'My affections are then most humble; I have no ambition to see a goodlier man.' I mean, does she really mean that?"

"Especially because I just straight out told her I've been banging all the ladies." Hayden added.

This was getting too on track. Chloe didn't come to join drama club. Then again, maybe a little bit of Chloe is just what the drama club needs.

"Yeah, that is hard. We've talked about that line forever." I took a step and advanced on Chloe, "We need a fresh perspective."

Chloe's face went into panic. She gave a quick look to the door in hopes I wasn't going to drag her into this. I wrapped my arm around behind her and watched as she gave a now nervous look down at my hand around her side. I walked her closer into the room. Her eyes wide and scanning the room the whole time. This could be a perfect time to get a sense of what Chloe's thinking. If she is crushing on me… I think I may have found my ditching partner.

"The question is: are Miranda's feelings of instant passion for Ferdinand just inexperience and dramatic circumstances or…" I gave Chloe an intent look, "has she actually just met the love of her life?"

"What do you think" Chloe

Chloe's eyes focused off into the room. There was quiet as she gave it serious consideration. Her eyes were still lost in thought as she spoke.

"Sometimes when you meet someone who's going to change your life," she then turned to me. Her eyes lighting up, "you just know it, I guess…"

She became aware of her surrounds, "Also, You've got parents coming to see the show right? At twenty bucks a ticket it's got to be true love."

That was actually a good answer. Maybe there's more to Chloe Price then meets the eye.

"Wow," Juliet said, "a romantic and a cynic. That actually kinda helps me, thanks."

The bell rung out signalling classes to start soon.

"Thanks Mr. Keaton, see you later guys." Juliet said as she and Hayden stepped down from the stage and left the room.

Mr Keaton began audibly complaining about his first period class with freshmen and walked toward his desk. I stepped forward in thought. Well it was now or never. I'll go change and then ask Chloe if she'll ditch with me. I turned to face her and crossed my arms. She stood there awkwardly, but not avoiding my gaze. Would she really just follow me blindly? Maybe I can use the momentum from our time last night.

"Your eye looks fabulous. Where'd you get it done?" I teased.

Chloe's eyes widened in confusion, "Uh… What?"

I laughed a little. I have to admit, seeing her this off. Angry teen Chloe Price being nervous. It was cute. Maybe I should take it a little easier on her.

"Just kidding. That asshole really clocked you." the image of the guy in the ballcap punching her across the face played back in my mind.

Chloe brushed it off, "It wasn't really a big deal."

Guess it's time to do this. "I'll just be a minute." I told her and left off to the dressing room to change back into my street clothes. Just as I walked into the room I remembered my belt was with my backpack on the other side of the room.

"Oh, could you grab my belt for me? I think it's in my bag over there." I called out to Chloe. I gave her a smile and went back into the dressing room.

"Uh, yeah, sure." I could just hear her respond.

I could feel the nerves build as I stripped off the Prospera costume. I doubt anyone could imagine Rachel Amber getting nervous about anything, but this was real. This wasn't any stage or homework assignment. This was my life. My everything. Me dragging Chloe into this. Is this what needing a friend feels like? Does Chloe see me as a friend, or as Rachel Amber.

I could hear her walk into the dressing room.

"Uh… Rachel? Is this your belt?" she called out toward the changing divider.

I peeked my head around the corner. Seeing her just standing there so innocently with my belt while I felt like I was walking a tightrope carrying the world on my back.

"Yes," I laughed oddly, "thank you." I could hear it in my voice. My nerves poking their head out.. I pulled back behind the divider to take a deep breath.

I have to get it together. I have to play Rachel Amber. Not just for Chloe but for myself.

"I really liked your costume." I turned to see Chloe. Standing behind the divider now still holding my belt.

I gave a smile, "Thanks."

Remember. The Rachel Amber.

"So did you bring flowers for my dressing room?" I asked eyeing her over my shoulder.

"Uh heh, how about a belt instead." She said.

"Perfect." I held out my hand, and she reached out and placed the belt into it.

I turned away and looked down at the belt.

"I'll let you finish changing now," Chloe said as she stepped back behind the divider.

I put the rest of my clothes on stepped out from the divider.

"Chloe Price."

"Rachel Amber." she responded, holding a tone of insecurity the entire time.

I stepped up to her and crossed my arms. "Last night… was amazing!"

"You call getting attacked by goons amazing? I've got to hang out with you more." she replied

Funny you should say that Chloe.

"Deal."

"To tell the truth," I continued, "I went to bed last night wishing it never had to end. But then I thought: why? Why does it have to end?"

"Maybe it doesn't," Chloe jumped, before checking herself. The tone of nervousness coming back now, "have to end."

"Exactly," I encouraged, "How would you like to join me on a little field trip?"

Chloe's eyes narrowed at me, "Ditch class? You mean it?"

Crap, Rachel Amber doesn't just ditch class. I feigned a little insecurity by tucking my hair behind my left ear. "Is that weird?"

I watched her expression change from accusative to momentary panic. "No, it's awesome."

Perfect.

"I hoped you'd say that. Now about that eye… That's a hell of a battle scar," and draws attention, "Do you want me to cover it up with some makeup?"

"Are you kidding? This is a badge of honor." she said with pride.

I mentally facepalmed, but physically shrugged my shoulders "Respect."

Well I guess this is it. Chloe and I just ditching school and heading down to the park to see who it is my dad is meeting up with in the middle of the day. It's probably just some criminal informant.

Then why does this feel more personal.

I looked into Chloe's eyes. I could see the wanting she held in there. For acceptance, for friendship, for love. She tries so hard to hide it all from everyone. But I can see it all.

I can see you Chloe Price.

"Let's get the hell out of here."

A/N Literally the first piece of writing I've ever put out there. I hope to bridge the gap from the Rachel we see in BtS to what we learn about her in LiS.