Trying to Live With the Dead (The Veil Diaries #1)

by B.L. Brunnemer

Everyone nodded or waved at me, but ultimately went back to whatever they were doing. Class started, and the teacher did what was the usual for today--announce me as a new student as I smile and wave. Then we got down to business. Mrs. Archer had set up a bowl of fruit at each table and wanted everyone to draw it. Asher showed me where the supplies were. I picked up a pack of oil pastels that had all the colors I wanted. Then I went back and went to work. I’ll admit, I kind of ignored everyone around me, including Asher, as I worked with the pastels. I was absently wiping my hand on my jeans again, cleaning my fingers, when Mrs. Archer looked over my shoulder. “Oh, well done, Alexis,” Mrs. Archer exclaimed loudly. Every head came up. I don’t think she meant to get everyone’s attention; she just seemed excited. “I love that you used the pastels here, you’re the first one to touch them in ages.” She pointed to the background of gray and streaks of white. “Beautiful blending, you have some talent here, missy.” I felt my face turn red as I bent back over my drawing. Asher leaned over and looked at my drawing. “That is cool,” he said. I felt my face grow hotter.