Story book

Ekonomska škola Sisak

3.c 2017./2018.

Story Book Stories written by the students of 3.c class in the school year 2017./2018.

Contents Art Decade

2

Topics of the stories have been chosen according to the students' personal preferences.

Heaven is the most beautiful…

5

Headache

9

The stories were written as an assignment to practice writing skills.

How

11

The Middle Earth Battle

13

Plot twist

17

r/Paranormal

20

Trapped

22

Series of odd events

23

What am I?

25

The Orphanage Boy…

30

Momčilo Saragej Šabanović…

33

Violet and Rose

35

Classmaster and teacher of English Language: Lucija Dianežević

2

Art Decade The lighting in the room was faint. The compelling smell of oil paints was scattered through the miniature room, but it didn't seem to bother the artist, who was determined to finish his painting, even though it was well past midnight.

He spent most of his time painting the days away – only taking small breaks to sleep and eat. He was currently staring at his newest painting which appeared to be a young man, sitting by himself in a dark room. A small smile slowly appeared on his face as he scribbled his signature at the bottom of the painting.

Pablo Picasso, The Blue Room

Monika Vujaković I was born on December 28th 2000 in Zagreb. I lived there until my third birthday when we moved to Sisak to live with my grandparents.

I love listening to music, particularly classic rock. Some of my favorite singers/bands include the Rolling Stones, Bowie, Beatles, Eagles, etc.

I also occasionally like to draw - I've

All around him were old books written by famous painters, which he read over and over. Sometimes those books would be his only company. Sometimes his loneliness would be so loud that it used to drown him in the dark corners of his small room.

The door suddenly swung open and an old man with thin, graying hair walked in. ''I thought you'd be awake. Do you have any idea what time it is?''

The artist looked at his pocket watch, which read two in the morning. ''I wanted to finish this painting before class tomorrow.''

I love watching TV shows and movies

''You don't have to finish it, son. There's plenty of time for that tomorrow.'' Mr. Holton assured him. Mr. Holton was his professor at the College of Art & Design, and one of the few people the artist enjoyed having conversations with.

(mostly all genres). My favorite shows

''I just finished it before you came in.''

are Stranger Things and Riverdale. My

There was a small hint of surprise on the professor's face as he made his way to the wooden easel where the painting was. The artist quietly stood behind him, restlessly waiting for the old man to say something.

always enjoyed drawing, despite the fact that I'm not always very good at it.

favorite movies would be Star Wars (all episodes) and Harry Potter.

I also have three dogs who I really love

them a few years ago and I'm really

''My God! It looks just like the original!'' the art professor cried out.

happy to have them.

The artist had painted Picasso's The Blue Room.

and I love spending time with them. I got

A small smile was playing on the young man's lips as Mr. Holton was admiring the painting.

3

''I knew you'd be the right man for the job. You'll get your money first thing in the morning.'' The older man left the crowded room and walked off into the darkness.

When he was sure Mr. Holton wouldn't come back, the artist dialed someone's phone number and walked aimlessly around the room until there was a voice on the other end of the line. ''No, he hasn't paid me yet. He said he'll give me the money tomorrow.'' There was a small pause before he spoke again. ''I'll go check his office to see if there's any money.''

He hung up the phone and left the room.

He picked the lock of Mr. Holton's office and let himself in.

There was a pleasant smell of pine and the warmth from the fireplace immediately embraced the artist.

Monika Vujaković There were papers stacked everywhere – the desk, the floor, the chair… In the bottom left drawer of the wooden desk, he found an envelope with his name on it. He quickly placed the envelope in his backpack and tried to leave as quietly as he could.

He heard footsteps coming towards the office, so he rushed back into his room and sent someone a quick message.

All done.

The next morning, Mr. Holton had asked to see him in his office.

The old man offered him a cup of tea, which he gladly accepted. There was an uncomfortable silence in the room until the professor spoke up. ''I know you broke into my office yesterday.''

The artist placed his cup of tea on the desk in front of him and smiled. ''I was just taking my money. That's all.''

Mr. Holton stood up and smiled at the painting, which was now in his office. ''I'll make a fortune out of this one, son. Well done. You may leave now, I'll let you know when I'll need you again.''

What Mr. Holton didn't know was that the younger man was secretly taping their whole conversation for evidence.

It had been a week since the artist had spoken to his professor. He had just finished reading Picasso's biography for the second time when a knock on the door alarmed him.

There stood Mr. Holton, with a wry smile. Two policemen were standing behind him with handcuffs. ''W-what is this?''

The older policeman approached him with the handcuffs and a serious expression on his face. ''We have been informed that Mr. Holton was selling replications of famous paintings and making a fortune out of it.''

''Did you think I was going to jail alone?'' Mr. Holton's smile grew bigger when he saw the artist's face. ''We also have evidence that you have been painting those copies for him, and that he's paying you for it.'' The officer handcuffed the artist and led him out of the building.

He was now sitting in the police car with his professor, who seemed to be thinking about something important, something that didn't quite add up. ''I wonder who informed the police.''

The young man didn't say anything.

A police officer then got into the car and smiled when he saw the artist's face in the mirror. ''Agent Watson, one of your best cases yet.''

The artist smiled, leaving Mr. Holton in complete shock. ''Thank you, officer.'' ''How did it feel to be back in college?''

Agent Watson looked at his old professor. ''I wouldn't do it again.''

Monika Vujaković

4

5

Gabriela Trninić Name: Gabriela Surname: Trninić Birth date: February 17, 2001 Place of birth: Sisak High school: Economic school Sisak, direction - Business Secretary

Heaven is the most beautiful place

Something about me: I'm a creative and a fun person. I like to socialize with my friends. I like spending warm summer days

Everything was so surreal and beautiful, just like in a dream. I was sitting on my front porch, the sound of birds singing and a light breeze were decorating the beautiful spring morning.

Everything was fine until my mom called me from inside the house: ''Gabriela, come back into the house right now, I have great news.''

I had no idea what had happened.

When I walked into the house, my mom waited for me looking happier than ever.

She kept yelling, ''You're going, you're going, you're going!''

I was confused and didn't know what was she talking about. ''Ivan called me and told me to pack your things.''

with my family on excursions. I spend most of my time with my mother, who is my greatest support in life. I am a person who likes to dream and write these dreams on paper and sometimes write a story.

I'm pretty much a reserved person and I do not like showing my stories to other people because I'm still not confident enough in my writing.

This time, he didn't tell me anything, I knew he was taking me somewhere, but the place was so special that he didn't want to tell me, so my mom had to pack all of my things.

I was looking at her that afternoon, as she was packing my suitcase, and she packed only two shirts and pants, completely white. She knew I hated wearing white, but I didn't say anything. She spoke calmly: ''I know you won't need it, but just in case.''

She didn't pack my phone, or my laptop, none of the technology things. It was strange because she knew I don't go anywhere without any of those things.

Before I left the house, she hugged me tightly and quietly whispered: ''I love you, and I'll be there soon. I promise.''

I still had no idea what was happening.

6

Gabriela Trninić

I still had no idea what was happening.

I'll tell you a secret about Ivan which only my mom and I know about.

He was a ghost, the soul of a person who was with us on Earth because it hadn't chosen its way yet, whether to be an angel or go to hell. Only my mom and I could see him. Sometimes only me.

His task was to protect or ruin the life of the person he loved the most. That person was me.

Everyone found it strange that I talked to myself sometimes, but I was actually having conversations with Ivan.

Ivan and I knew each other since we were kids, literally since we were born. The day he died, I thought that was my last day of life.

Then he showed up in the evening. I didn't get scared because I still wasn't aware that he was a ghost. It's been two years since that day, he's been wandering in our world as a ghost, and I know it's not easy for him, but I'm also glad that he's here with me.

That day was completely usual. I drove the car, because he, as a ghost, couldn't drive, and that'd be really weird. He was telling jokes as usual.

But he was looking at me differently that day. He didn't look at me the way friends look at each other, but differently.

Everything was fine until he asked me: ''Did you ever think about what's it like in heaven?''

I was shocked because we didn't really talk about that topic.

I fearfully answered: ''No, have you?'' ''Of course I have. That's my destiny and I know you'll help me get my wings to protect you from the other side.''

Chills ran through my body in that moment. I was aware that one day I'll have to let him go find his own path. But I was happy that I was able to help my best friend for the last time.

The trip was very long and I was exhausted, and the car suddenly stopped. We got out of the car and he gave me a beautiful white dress and quietly spoke: ''Where I'm taking you today, you have to wear what angels wear, you can't just look like one.''

I knew what he meant by that, he always called me the most beautiful angel in the world, but I was always dressed in black which wasn't appropriate for an angel.

I smiled and put the dress on- I felt very weird, but content. Somehow the dress was filled with love and peace, and it weighed no more than a feather.

We walked the rest of the way, there wasn't much of a road left, and in front of us there was a field full of flowers. He took my hand and I was surprised that I could feel him as if he was real and his touch reminded me of the adventures we had had together. I couldn't help but ask him:

''How come I can feel you?'' ''We're no longer on Earth. This is the way to the big and the small door.''

I knew what he was talking about. We were in a so called interspace between heaven and earth. He was doomed to either enjoy in heaven or suffer in hell. Although, he leaned more towards hell, because he was a cruel and evil man in life, to everyone except me.

He had one more chance, the one he said he'd tell me about when the time is right, and I was sure the time is now, on this beautiful field. We sat on the grass, and I leaned to him just like whenever we'd have a picnic near the river. I laid my head on his chest while his fingers slowly went through my hair and he whispered quietly: ''It's time…''

My heart was beating fast and I kept waiting for the rest of the story. ''Remember how I told you that I had one more chance to go to heaven?'' ''Of course I do.'' ''Well, if I want to go, I have to take another soul with me… I have to bring that soul to the edge of its life and take it with me.'' ''Why don't you kill an animal? They have souls, too. I don't understand...''

At that, he chuckled and I couldn't figure out what was so funny until he sighed and said, almost through tears, ''I won't take away your time. You're the only person I can take with me. I have to put the life of the person I loved the most in danger. In real life you were like a sister to me, but in my heart…''

Those words were more than enough for me and I stopped him, ''Wait! Are you honestly telling me that your whole life you loved me more than as a sister and you're telling me that your destiny depends on me?''

I was angry, so angry. My eyes were watery and my soul was crushed. I loved him with my whole heart and I wanted to spend the rest of my life with him, but I had to think about my mom, who only had me. I didn't know what to do, I was full of emotions, so all I could do, was to cry.

Ivan was watching me and knew what was bothering me. He slowly approached me and pressed his lips on my forehead like he always did and said: ''Mom knows everything. And I know that, the moment you wish for her to join us, she will. She's old by now and understands everything.''

I didn't know what to do. I was leaving this world so quickly.

We spent another hour on that field, and it was more than enough for me to decide that I love him and I'd do it for him.

Our eyes met and I quietly whispered: ''I love you and my life wouldn't make any sense without you anyway. I spent every second with you so far, and I'll continue to do so forever.''

He pulled out a knife from his pocket, looked me in the eyes and stabbed my heart. The last thing I felt were his lips on mine. Yes, he kissed me… After all these years of looking for someone I realized he was right there the whole time.

His kiss woke me and that's how I became a ghost. The deep look in his eyes was telling me that we made it. We were no longer on the field, but in heaven.

7

We both had wings and we were flying. Then, something strange started happening, everything started to shake and Ivan was leaving me, his hand slipped out of mine, and I heard his last words: ''Don't be ashamed to say you love me.''

The knock on the door woke me up. It was my 18th birthday. I woke up and opened the door, because someone kept knocking. Of course, Ivan was at the door. He carried a huge teddy bear and balloons in his arms. I hugged him and told him something I've always wanted to, but was always afraid. ''I love you and I've always loved you more than I thought.''

He replied with a strange choice of words: ''Don't be ashamed of anything in life. I love you too and I always will.''

We went into the house together and he said 'hey' to my mom. We celebrated my birthday and I was happy.

I'll just never understand his words. Was that just a dream or not?

Oh, well, who knows? ď Š

8

9

Antoneta Kapić My name is Antoneta Kapić, I live in Sisak, Croatia. I'am 17 years old and I am going to Economic school Sisak in the 3rd grade.

I love listening to rap music

HEADACHE It was a nice sunny afternoon on Friday. After school I went to the bus station at 13:20, I sat on the bus and drove as usually. Everything was okay all the way to the last station which is in my neighborhood. The walk from the bus station to my home takes about 10 minutes at maximum, and in these 10 minutes I experienced such a horror and such mental as well as psychic pain that it was totally unexpected. I walked on the pathway near to the market Konzum and, as I walked, I got a headache and I got sick. On the way I met a priest, who was very strange, he looked like a devil, with long nails, a long black dress and a strange nose.

He walked over to me and asked me, "Hey, is everything okay with you?"

and old blues. I'm interested in Buddhism and Hinduism.

I love drawing graffiti. When I need peace, I love to go somewhere

far

away

in

nature with my dog, papers, pencil and earphones; then I am the best person in the world. I don't have too many friends. I don't have a best friend, my brother and my parents are my best friends.

I barely said "yes" and something threw me on the side of the high hedge. He watched me standing all the time next to me. I was getting worse, but my vision disappeared. I did not talk to him anymore, I tried to run, but as I ran faster, it seemed as if I was not moving from place to place. He grabbed my hand with his long nails and squeezed it.

That touch felt like somebody hit me in my head, I felt great headache and I saw strong glittering light.

I felt that he turned me to the other side of the path and let my hand.

Standing straight on the way to the station where I came from, I saw a house on the right, it was the home of my childhood friend and her two brothers named Roko and Fran. I started running to the house and shouted: ''Rokoooooo!!!''.

10

Antoneta Kapić

He got out of the house, and I started crying hysterically.

He looked at me and asked me what was going on. I told him that a priest was chasing me and I was feeling really sick. I asked him to call my parents to come and pick me up. He told me to get into the house, but I couldn't, that priest caused so much pain in my head that I fell on the floor on my knees and held my head which felt like someone was screaming inside the my head. Roko looked at me and he was scared too; he crouched on the floor beside me and took my hands. The priest was still standing in front of the fence. My parents called Roko on the cellphone and asked what was going on. Roko gave me a cell phone, and as I took it closer to the ear, I felt more pain in my head. Hysterically and weeping I told Dad to come for me at Roko's house. He didn’t undestand anything, but he said ''Okay, I am coming''.

Roko's mom came out and we sat on the chairs on their terrace. The priest was standing motionless in front of the fence and looking weirdly at us. Roko and his mom were comforting me trying to find out what had happened to me. I started telling them about what had happened before I got to their home. Suddenly the blue car Peugeot 206 that my father was driving appeared, and I, crying hysterically, yelled: "Dad!!!!''. I started waving at him, but he did not see it. He drove all the way to my bus station and stopped there. I started to run to him, but when I got out of Roko's yard he disappeared. It seemed as if everything evaporated and everything was muted. I was still running and I ran to the new playground and then a car crash happened. I ran to the car and it was a blue one with the same registration, overturned. I was crying more and more. I came to the car and looked through the window to see if my father was in, but he was not, there was actually a blond woman who was bleeding from the head because of a strong blow. I stopped crying and turned behind the car where the priest was standing with hands raised. I lay on the floor and covered my head with my hands, I closed my eyes and realized that it was the end.

I woke up in the morning about 8:15 pm. It was Saturday. My headache was still there. I left the room to see where my dad was. He was in bed as usual and everything was okay except for my headache.

11

Ivana Faletar

HOW?

„I hate you!“, Emma shouted, „I want you to be dead!“. Than she slammed the door and left the house.

Her mother was still standing in the middle of the living room, conufesd and in tears.

She didn`t know how to explain to her daughter that she is wrong, and put her on the right way.

She was sick too, she had cancer but no one knew about that except her.

Emma run away to her friend`s. Immediately when she came, her friend gave her the last marijuana he had to calm her down. Emma was friend with junkies and drug dealers. Affected by drugs she was a cold and terrible person, her eyes were red and she dressed like a homeless girl.

Her mother find out that she`s doing drugs one night and they were fighting because of that. Emma`s mother was lost and sad… she sat on the bench in the park and she thought about life and all happy memories that she could rememmber.

Emma was walking down the road. When she came home the windows were open, the house was cold and gloomy. She yelled „Mother?!“, but no one was home. Emma was scared. She knew that her mother never leaves the windows open, so she went to find her. Emma couldn`t find her mother, she asked everyone, but nobody saw her.

12

Ivana Faletar

That night her mother was looking for Emma, but she couldn`t find her. She even went to the town cemetery where she asked the grave digger if he maybe saw Emma because he knows her.

It was very late and it started raining. She came to the town cemetery just when there was a funeral.

She didn`t care about the funeral and she asked the grave digger about her mother and he said: „Don`t you know? She died.“, Emma was confused, „What do you mean? Who died? How?“.

She didn`t wait for the answer, she immediately started to run among the crowd of people…all she found was a coffin and her mother in it, laying so beautiful and peaceful like a little angel.

There was nothing left for Emma in this world…except the guilt.

The End.

13

Lara PavrliĹĄak

The Middle Earth Battle I woke up. I've never felt like this. I hear battle voices.

The war. Everywhere around me the faces of dead soldiers. It's not their fault. This is not their war.

Their masters want every land under their control.

This war is their fault. All I can see is murder, soldiers killing everyone they see, but they do it with such a pleasure like lives of other people mean nothing to them. They make sure that the bodies are masacred so wives of these poor warriours can't even recognise them. I don't know if I should stand up and run, but it seems like I'm on the enemy's floor.

Although, I don't know who the enemy is. But if I stay here, they might kill me. Then I'll be just one of their victims, nonamer in their eyes. But where am I? There is no familiar face, nor place. I was ready to stand up and fight, when I saw the great gate open. Suddenly, there was just a loud sound of the gate breaking the walls around it, and then, dozen of soldiers ran out. They looked so confident, so proud. I had faith, so I stood up, every solider that was killing the enemy army was marching to the gate to masacre the new soldiers. Now I had a better point of view, I looked around, I saw dead soldiers, and alive ones, I saw them pretty clear now. Those weren't just any soldiers, those were not people. I started panicking, where the hell am I? I tried to focus on the alive soldiers. Half of them were so small, I had to climb on my toes to see them clearly. A new army that came through the great gate was killing every single soldier that tried to fight them. I told myself those people are my salvation.

14

Lara PavrliĹĄak

I ran to them, and as I was getting closer, I realised that they weren't ordinary people, they was so small but muscular, they had to be dwarves. When the word dwarf went through my head, I remembered the movie I once saw in the theatre. There's no chance I'm in the Middle Earth. It's impossible. I got closer to the new army, there were was just them and I on the big bloody field, covered with bodies. I stopped and took a look at the body that wasn't masacred. That is not a human being. That really is an orc. The whole field is craving with dead orcs, just like in the movie, I think it is called The Hobbit. I couldn't believe it. I was standing in the Middle Earth when the greatest war was happening. I knew the names of the dwarves. The great gate was the richest mountain, Erebor. I approached their king with my hand in the air, with no weapon, no shield. They passed right through me, only one soldier turned around and looked me right in the eyes, thinking I am the danger.

" Who sent you, you little rat!?" he said. I recognised that voice, it was Kili, the nephew of Thorin Oakenshield, the king of Erebor. " Killi, I know you. I'm comming from a different world, you have to believe me, I mean no harm. " I just realised that I know what is going to happen in every moment, everything was happening just like in the movie. " I know you are looking for Tauriel, she is alive." He took his sword, this must be it, he believes me. But the last thing I saw was the back of his sword hitting my face, and I blackedout.

How am I unconsciously conscious? I could see pictures in my head, I could speak in my head. I know I said the Middle Earth is the place where I belong, but I want to live, and if I'm staying here, if I couldn't find a way out, I'm a dead man. When I woke up, I was on the top of the mountain. It was Azog's land. Azog is the master of orcs, it is a being that has the most of the blood on his hands. He started this war. New army of orcs were coming my way, there is no one to save me. I am going to die. The army didn't even look at me. I started believing I am invisible, but if that's correct how did I talk to Killi? I think I' ll just thank God I'm still alive. I saw a few dwarves killing orcs that passed me. I thought I'd see Kili, Fili or even Thorin. But there was just blood all over this deserted mountin. Then someone came to me. " Bilbo, is it?" I said to hobbit even smaller then the dwarf army. "How can you see me? I am wearing my ring.", he said so confused and worried at the same time. " Your ring that makes you invisible?", I asked proudly. He had no idea anyone knew of his little secret. " How.." I stopped him before he said another word.

15

"No time for explaination, I have to find Thorin, he may know how to get me back.", I said, and I had images in my head- what if I don't succeed in finding Thorin, if I'm stuck here forever, or until some orc kills me‌ Will I ever see my mother? My mother who gave me this beautiful life, which I took for granted. Now I'm stuck in some other world, in the place so dangerous. "Thorin went to find Azog on the other side of this mountain", he said like he knew he is already dead. "What about Killi and Filli, they might know something, tell me where they are!" I started to be paranoic, but then I calmed, and asked him again. "Killi and Filli are dead, they were our chance of winning this war. If I were you, I'd turn around and run as far as I could, you are going to get yourself killed", he said and pointed in opposite direction. "But a few minutes ago I was talking to Killi.", I said laughing." "That's impossible, Killi died in the battle with Bolg. "No, no, no. He was trying to save Tauriel?" He made a little move with his head, I'll say it means yes.

I stood up and started walking in the direction Bilbo pointed. I guess I will find Thorin there. Unexpectedly, Bilbo ran after me, closer and closer, and after a minute we were walking together. "Why?" I asked, knowing that he wanted to go in the opposite direction, to his home. "I guess I don't want to leave my friend, Thorin, alone in this, he gave me a home when I was homeless, we were bonded by the special connection called friendship. I don't want to leave him behind me." I smiled. "So, true friends exist." "After the war, I will stay here, in Erebor, I don't want to be lonely anymore, it is by far the worst feeling. ", he said with a little hope in his smile when he pictured the perfect ending of this sad war.

I stood there, on top of the mountain, everything was full of life, like the war never happened. Animals got back to their homes, wives hugging their husbands, and warriours crying for their fallen brothers. I lost Bilbo, he must've found Thorin. I walked alone, alone with my mind. Then I saw him. Thorin. King of Erebor. The most powerful being of this world. But he was dying. Bilbo knelt on one knee filled with sorrow. "Farewell, King under the Mountain! And my very best friend. "I heard Thorin trying to get strenght to say his last words: "Farewell, Master Burglar. Go back to your books, and your armchair, plant your trees, watch them grow."

Bilbo was looking him right in the eyes, trying to overcome pain that was breaking his heart. "If more people valued home above gold, this world would be a merrier place."

I couldn't stop the tear from falling from my eyes. This will change Bilbo for good. He stood up and came to me. " Give me your hand." I wasn't sure what to do, he was so broken, shaking and losing breath. He looked me in the eyes, it was different, his look ment something. He knew what he was doing. I gave him my hand. He put something in my wrist and closed it immediately. "No, Bilbo, I can not take it, please, do not be foolish." It was his ring. His ring that he found at the Misty mountains.

He fought with his life for this thing he gladly put in my hand. " This is the proof, do not ever come back here, this world only causes pain. You will love all those people here, and how couldn't you? And then, you'll lose them one by one. Like someone is tearing your heart from your chest. Run away little boy, give your heart a break, please."

I woke up in my bedroom, and I remembered everything, every word. This can't be a dream. I stood up, I wanted to see if this is for real, and then something hit the floor. It was the ring.

16

17

Sara Markulin Hi, my name is Sara and I am seventeen years old girl from Croatia. I'm currently living in a small town called Sisak and I am attending School of Economy in Sisak.

Now, about why I started writing. There's not any special reason. It was seventh grade in elementary school and I was extremely bored on summer holidays so I thought 'Why not?' And writing stories became just another thing I'm doing in my free time. Other than writing, I watch movies and TV shows, listen to some good music and read books.

Although I'm always kind of busy, I still claim my life is boring and it can always be better.

Plot twist: you are your crush's crush Wouldn't that be great? Like, you fall in love with the hottest guy in your school (who is also the most popular and funny and just like that perfect prince on his white horse). You walk up to him and tell him: "Hey, I like you" and he smiles and says: "Hey, I like you too. Be my girlfriend?"

Now, wouldn't that just be great? No pain, no suffering, no need to worry too much or to stalk him and later burn from jealousy because he's found some girl.

But, life doesn't work like that. Falling in love hurts, but falling for someone who never notices you hurts even more. It is frustrating. And painful, but also there is something oddly good about loving someone who doesn't love you back and I don't know what that is.

"Do we have to do this? It's creepy. Stalking people is creepy." - Elizabeth showed her disapproval. I glanced at her and shrugged before looking back at his house.

"Well, it's actually his fault."

"For what? For us stalking him?"

"Yeah. See, if he agreed to be my boyfriend, we wouldn't have to do this."

"But, you never told him you like him." - she was confused.

"Do I have to really tell him everything? If he can't see it himself, then he has problems with sight." - I shrugged, not even glancing at her.

"How is he supposed to know you like him? He doesn't even----"

"Shhh. He knows everything, we just got in a little fight and he pretends he doesn't know."

"Sally you are---" "Pathetic?" - I cut her off again. She nodded and I shrugged. "Yeah, I know. It's complicated, you know.

Being in love with the school's hottest guy isn't easy at all, okay?"

"When will you tell him you feel something towards him? I bet he feels the same." - I scoffed at her empty beliefs.

"When will I tell him? Never. My feelings aren't for public, okay?"

"You are complicated." - she rolled her eyes and got up.

"Now I'm starting to think the love is not what you are searching for, but the feeling you get when you see him. It brings you to the cloud nine and you feel high. But it's temporary." - she said before turning around and leaving me alone.

It is temporary? Isn't everything temporary in this world?

18

Sara Markulin

"Sally?" - my eyes widened as I recognized his voice. I stayed sitting on the bench, frozen. What am I to do now? What am I supposed to say? Sorry, I'm just sitting here because I'm stalking you..

No way. What is he going to think of me then? I mean, it's not like he thinks of me anyways. "What are you doing here... with.... a wig?" - he asked suspiciously as he approached me. I looked up at him and bit my lip nervously.

"I... uh... am sitting... here?" - I claimed and man... it sounded more like a question than a statement.

"Okay... and a wig?" - he asked as he pointed at the wig on my head. What to say now? It's just something that was supposed to hide me from you..

"Uh, I, I'm making an experiment. Yeah, an experiment." - I smiled nervously and got up. "But... it obviously was a huge fail because you recognized me."

"Okay... you know you are acting weird, don't you?" - he smiled softly at me and I nodded.

"Oh, it's just.. my natural behaviour." - should I dig myself a grave? Should I jump under a car and die? Probably. Why do I have to be so clumsy when I'm talking with him? Why is he affecting me so much? "Anyway, uh, I should go now." - my voice was shaky and it was showing off my nervousness. He smiled softly and nodded.

"Just before you go... can I ask you something?" - he asked softly and I nodded.

Just be fast, I thought and barely managed to look him in his eyes.

19

"See, this is going to be awkward but... I like you and... I wanted to ask you out." - he said quietly and I could've felt his nervousness too. "So, are you free tonight?"

"Y-yes.." - I stuttered and smiled at him. His smile widened. "So, see you tonight?"

"Yes, I will pick you up. 7:30 pm. Be ready, cupcake." - he giggled and pinched my cheek, but I didn't mind it. I was still trying to realize if this is reality or just another dream.

As I was walking home, I realized something. It was plot twist. I am my crush's crush.

Guess life is wonderful again. And miracles exists, not only in the movies.

20

Gabrijela Mitar Name: Gabrijela Last name: Mitar Date of birth: 12/12/2000 Job: Student Company/School: Business school Sisak Skills: using Microsoft Office, operating on Windows computers, video/photography taking and editing...

Hobbies: Training, raising and loving animals, photography, gardening and reading Likes: animals, books, black, smell of freshly cut grass, horrors, sound of the rain, snow, plants, anime, Japan, cameras, walking with my dog in woods, running around with horses, vegetables, fruits, my stationary bike, green tea, piercings, tattoos nature, villages, Lonjsko polje, art, conspiracy theories, paranormal, sad music, memes, Reddit…

Dislikes: Fake people, injustice, animal abusers, people that try too hard to be special, loud noises, crowds, when people collect flowers, hateful people, hot weather, short sleeves, milk, people that don’t want to learn new things, people that mock other people for not thinking like them, when everything is perfect, Snapchat, history in school… (too detailed and our grades

r/Paranormal *the following story is inspired by subreddit Paranormal (r/paranormal) and is made up* It’s haunting me, it’s always near me, it always follows me and it won’t leave until I do.

Everything started when I was 13, I thought that it will be really funny if we buy OUIJA board and do the ritual on the local graveyard. The board was hidden until I and my friends were too bored so we decided to drive to the graveyard and mess around with OUIJA and try to contact ghosts. After joking in front of the graveyard we entered and pulled OUIJA board out. We all put our hands on board, said opening prayer and started the ritual. None of us believed that we were actually contacting the spirits, not until unusual eerie energy was all over the place and we were getting scared. I still remember the look in eyes of my best friends when pointer on board started moving to letters “H” and “I”. I could see the fear in their eyes.

After a few moments of panicking we were finally able to pull ourselves together and ask a question. We asked the spirit about name and it answered with Elie, then we asked if he’s good or evil spirit. That was when we started panicking because it wouldn’t answer, we thought that we should just go without saying goodbye, we decided that we should just run. So we did. Without saying goodbye.

After that we simply forgot that event, had fun and binge watched our favourite movies.

That evening I was extremely tired and didn’t think about the event until I was brushing my teeth and saw weird shadowy figure in the back while looking at my reflection in the mirror.

I just brushed it off as my tiredness and seeing things because I didn’t sleep. I had trouble falling asleep but eventually I did and suddenly my worst nightmares turned into reality. I felt like floating and then I saw myself sleeping. I was looking from outside of our house into my window. I could see myself and that weird shadowy figure next to my bed, just lifelessly staring at me sleeping. It was the scariest thing I have ever experienced, at least I thought. After a few seconds of me looking at myself sleeping, the figure turned around and chased me. I woke up in sweat and crying. I was looking around, but the figure wasn’t there anymore. I didn’t want to move, I didn’t want to go outside my room. Something was not right. Later I found out that my friends experienced similar things that night.

21

Gabrijela Mitar

Everything has gotten worse since that night, I could constantly feel something malevolent always near me, living with me and staying with me. I would woke up to find some creepy messages, and I was getting more and more scared. I was scared because messages were cut into my body. At that time I already knew that something that was following me was not good and it wanted to hurt me. It still does to this day.

After that night all my best friends that were included in the event moved away and never tried to reach back to me.

I tried everything, including talking through mediums, going back to graveyard and even praying every night.

Nothing helps. It wants me to suffer. It wants to end me. I want to end this. Only way I could do it is to end myself before it does.

22

Sara Dumenčić

Trapped The lights in the dark room kept flickering. On and off. On and off. It seemed to go on forever. All of the other rooms in the house were locked. No lights were flickering there. It was just darkness.

The room is right next to the basement. The house is almost entirely silent, but, if you get close enough to the room, you can hear the sound of an old typewriter. And there she was.

She was the only person in this school – a place where I spent most of my childhood – sitting in a wooden chair and furiously typing 'h' on the typewriter.

Her eyes were red and swollen from all the crying.

It was obvious to anyone that she's been sitting there for a while.

She couldn't talk so no one knew what was wrong with her. She was the only person in this school – a place where I lived some of my worst memories.

That girl is me. And I can't leave this school.

I know they're watching me. I can't do anything besides pressing 'h'. I can't cry.

I can't scream. The lights keep flickering.

I'm all alone in this empty school. A place where I lived some of my worst memories.

A place where I'll die.

23

Klaudija Kararić So, my name is Klaudija.

People call me Klac or Klod.

I'm 17 and I live in Sisak. I'm currently going to Economics School in Sisak and I am 3rd grade. In my free time I play games (and boardgames), listen to music, watch movies/series, photograph and volunteer in Skwhat . I like youturbers so I'm always kinda updated with PewDiepie, JackSepticEye or KickThePJ videos. Also, I own 3 cats and 4 dogs. My life is fulfilled with cats, they are my favorite. I don't have a lot of best friends and that is by choice, of course. But, I know a big number of people actually for a half-introvert like me. I like travelling a lot and whenever I get a chance to go somewhere, I try to make it happen. Also, I'm half of a modern person and the other half is vintage. I love today's new technology and stuff like that because I love informatics a lot. But, I'd rather live sometime before.

80s perhabs. I love 80s movies and fashion, music style.

Series of odd events I woke up. It was 6:40am. I better get ready for school. I had a feeling something weird was happening, but I was indecisive about that. So, I got ready and I went out of the house and I saw my friend Eric standing there with his bycicle and waiting for me. We went to the bus station. It took about 5 minutes to arrive there usually, but since we walked so slowly (at least it seemed like it), we managed to arrive on the bus station at exactly 8:20am. I looked towards the sky and I saw two Suns, orbiting one around the other. I really didn't understand what was going on, was it apocalypse or what? Eric and I stopped at the traffic lights and there my amusement kicked in again. We saw two aliens sitting in the car. But not any kind of aliens.

They were transparent and outlined with an orange line, looking like something that would crisp you if you touch it.

We arrived to school and weird things continued to happen. My class wasn't 'the usual class'. There were volunteers from Skwhat. So let's assume I was going in class with people who were 18 years old minimal. Eric went to his friend, and I saw my other friend Dario and sat next to him. We talked for a while and then Milica entered the class. She is Dario's girlfriend. I started fangirling so much as the time passed by, for like 15-20 minutes, because for some odd reason I didn't notice she dyed her hair pink when she entered the class.

24

Also, the sky kept being weird and pretty. Now it looked like it was sunset, but in reality it was 9 am. The sky was purple and caused that cozy feeling in your head. There was no teacher as well. Later she arrived, but we still didn't do anything so I assumed that was the very last day of school.

The whole day at school was just joking and having fun, so when we finished with school, Eric, Vedran and I went to our friend's house. He was also volunteering in Skwhat, but he didn't appear in school. His name is Tilen. I understood that he didn't come to school because it was his 22nd birthday. We brought the cake with us to celebrate his birthday. Then another fact weirded me out. He was living in the small wooden house in Naselje, not far from 'Sertić'. But it was weird because houses there were really old and literally no one lives there. So, when we arrived, we saw the table. On the table there was a laptop that wasn't turned on and a paper was sticked to the laptop. It was funny because the note said: 'I TOLD YOU I'LL BE RIGHT BACK'. Yes. All caps.

Klaudija Kararić

And I literally heard his voice in my head when I read that. We waited for 30 minutes and he actually arrived. But the mystery continues. Why the hell would he put the table in the middle of the yard with a laptop on it? We were about to solve that mystery, but my greatest enemy arrived. An alarm. It was all just a dream. Also, one of my weirdest and funniest dreams I have ever had.

25

Ines Šimićev

WHAT AM I? There was a girl named Rosy. She lived in the USA. She was just a normal girl until a few months ago. But, let's start at beginning of all this.

When she was born, it was a snowy day. She was a very peaceful child, she wasn't getting in trouble and she had beautiful parents.

She was the the only child in a family. She went to school and she grew up to the age of 17. Rosy liked everything connected with fairytale and fantasy, but she didn't believe in that, she just enjoyed it. Her father and mother worked at a company dealing with medicines. Rosy had a best friend Roxy. She was her age and went to school together. They were like family. They went to school together and everything was fine until the teacher said to the class that they will have a new student. They were all curious who that might be. The teacher said that he was coming tomorrow. Every girl in the class was now even more curious than before and boys lost interest. Rosy and Roxy were guessing how the boy would look and the loser was supposed to pay choco cake for both.

Name: Ines Surname: Šimićev Birth date: 2 January 2001 Age: 17 Favorite colors: red, black, gray and white Music: english with fast beat and kpop Favorite movies: Dark Shadows, Underworld,Avatar, Deadpool, Harryy Potter, Me before you, A cure for wellness...

Favorite series: Teen wolf, Buffy vampire slayer, Vampire diaries, Navy NCIS, AHS, True blood, Blood ties Favorite anime: Fullmetal alchemist brotherhood, Vampire knight, Your name, Seraph of the end, Blue exorcist,, Avatar Favorite books: Black dagger brotherhood, DemianH.Hesse, Hush,hush – B. Fitzpatrick, Dinner with the vampire Hobby: cycling, drawing, dancing, reading books

And so next day came and everyone was looking for a new guy in the yard, but they couldn't find him, so they went to class and sat down and waited. The door opened and the teacher came and so did the new student. Everyone noticed that the boy was very attractive and every girl's dream. But he had a dark aura around him as if he could beat someone and not even break a sweat. He introduced himself with a cold voice. He had a strange accent but as he was introducing himself, he made it clear that he was from Europe and his name was Alexandar. As he looked around the class, he stopped his look on Rosy. She gave him an angry stare back and he looked away. He sat in the back, in a row near the windows, in the same row that Rosy and Roxy were sitting. After school, Rosy and Roxy went for apromised cake, but none of them guessed right about Alexander's appearance, so they paid together and had a good laugh.

Roxy liked Alexandar's looks and she liked his bad boy attitude. Rosy liked him as well, but she had some weird feeling about him.

26

Ines Šimićev

She told Roxy she didn't like his attitude of untouchable. Rosy said that women should act as untouchable, not the guys, and both laughed to that.

Alex wasn't a very talkative person, but he had excellent grades and he was good at sports. He hung out with everyone, but when someone asked about his family, he would change the subject. Everyone got used to that, so they stopped asking. Roxy gave up on the idea to seduce him, because he didn't want her for a girlfriend.

Alex had a birthday and he invited everyone from the class to the party which was held in the club in the city. That club was new and not known to Roxy and Rosy, but they went. The club name was The room of Seil. It was dark in the club, except for red lights. There was Illusion writing on the wall. They liked it. The music playing was techno. The had no idea what the name meant, so they said that they would ask Alex. They just needed to find him first, but he was nowhere to be found. They went to the bar for a drink. They both took alcoholic drinks. People were coming, they didn't know most of them, but a few from the class came so they joined them. Then finally Alex came and everyone wished him a happy birthday. The last ones were Roxy and Rosy. Alex was all in black with a long-sleeved shirt and black pants. He looked good and Roxy again fell in love.

Rosy asked about the name of the club. He said that they should use a mirror for the word seil.

They went to try it and it said The room of Lies, but they still didn't know why someone would name a night club with that name. The went inside and had fun, the danced and drank. The last minute of Alex's birthday came, so he bought everyone a drink, Absinthe. All people drank it and so did Rosy, but suddenly.

Everyone fell down except her, even Roxy. She checked if Roxy was breathing and she was, but why did everyone fall down as if they sleep? She wanted to call an ambulance, but her phone was missing, and so was Roxy's. She was looking for Alex, but he wasn't there. Then suddenly she heard something. She asked who was there, but no answer came, so she went closer and then someone started laughing. She got scared and she couldn't move. Then a man with a big scar across his face approached in front of her and she started to run. That wasn't a great idea because she couldn't run well in high heels and the man started running, too. She hid behind the bar and she heard the man approaching. Just then disco lights went crazy and suddenly she saw a wolf fighting with something. The glass and chairs were breaking and something hit the wall so strong she thought it was a bomb, but then again everything went silent and the lights went out. She couldn't move and she was feeling that her heart wuold leave her chest any second.

Something grabbed her hand and she screamed.

She found herself in her room in her bed. She woke up in sweat and she looked at the clock. It was 3 in the morning. She didn't know what had happened, but then she remembered the last night. But how she got out of there, why is she in her bed, how is Roxy, what actually happened, were just a few of the questions she had. She got up and found her shoes and the dress that she wore in the club on a chair. She went to the bathroom. She still had makeup on her face. She went to call Roxy and she picked up, but she didn't remember anything except that Rosy got drunk and passed out. Rosy was scared again, she asked herself if she got mad, and someone else replied.

It was someone in the dark of her room. She saw a shadow sitting on her bed. It was Alex.

27

She turned on the lights. He had something red on his face. It was blood. He looked sadly at Rosy. She couldn't stop staring at him. They were looking at each other for a few seconds and then Rosy started asking questions. His face went dark and she could see that he was thinking if he should tell her the truth or lie. He decided to tell her the truth. Alex looked at her and said: '' You are special, that's why you remember everything and you didn't fall after a drink. That thing you saw, that man, he is not good. I got rid of him, but there are many of them out there. And these people who represent as your parents, you shouldn't trust them.''

Rosy couldn't believe:''Why would I believe anything you just said? Alex stood up and got closer to Rosy, slowly, but she slowly backed up until she didn't have anywhere else to go. Her heart started beating like crazy again.

His eyes went red. But suddenly something appeared in her mind. Some images that she never saw. Some big old house. There were people there that she never saw, or she thought so. She passed out. Alex carried her to her bed and sat near her.

She was dreaming, but she was a small girl in her dream and there were people around, some family.

Everyone smiled at her and called her name. Then she called for mum, but that woman, she wasn't her mum in real life, she hugged her. Then her dad came and again, it was an unknown man, but they looked alike. Then that dream faded out and another came. It was night and a boy with his family was in their house. The boy looked like Alex. When she called him, it was Alex, just younger. They were having dinner, and then and Alex and his family went home. Rosy was sitting with her mum in front of the fireplace. It was really nice until they heard some car stopping at their entrance. Her dad went out to see what happened to the car. Suddenly they heard a shot. Her mum put her in a secret room behind the painting.

She got scratched on her arm. Rosy didn't understand what was happening but she was quiet. Some people went into the room where she and her mum were hiding. People asked her mum where she was, but she refused to answer. They murdered her and started searching trough the house. Then someone came and shot a man. Shooting lasted for a few minutes. Then a man opened the door of a secret room where Rosy was hidden and there were Alex's father and Alex.

She woke up. Alex was beside her. Laying down and watching her. Rosy didn't know what to believe and what not. That dream means nothing. Except that scar was still there, on her arm, light as an old scar. But that didn't mean anything to her. Rosy turned to Alex who was still on her bed: ''What do you want from me and what was with those eyes?'' Alex stood up and was getting closer to Rosy. He came near her ear and whispered: ''Want me to show you?'' Rosy had no time to answer and she found herself instantly in that old house with Alex. Rosy looked around: ''This isn't my room. How? Am I dreaming again?'' Alex took her hand: ''No, you don't dream and this is your house, don't you remember?'' She didn't know what to think about this, her mind was blank. But Alex started walking and so did she.

The house was big and looked like a castle. Lights were weak. There was an old-fashioned decoration in there, and a lot of paintings. They got in one living room, it was the one from her dream. Everything was still there like it was a dream, only the window wasn't broken. She then went to another room without Alex. There were those two people from a dream, her parents, and a child. It was her. She was going through room and memories just went back. But how? Why? She turned back to Alex and hugged him and started crying. He took her to bed and sat her there. Alex put his hand on her face and wiped out her tears. ''Do you remember now?'' Alex asked. Rosy noded. ''I have to take you back home'' said Alex and took her in the arms. They apeared back in her room. It was 6 in the morning. She got in the bed, she got sleepy. ''But what are you?' she took Alex's hand. He looked at her:'' Soon you will find out. When all memories come back.'' He gave her a kiss on the cheek and she fell asleep.

She woke up. She dreamed all again. She knows now what he is, but how was that possible? ''How could I be that'?'.

Her parents came in her room and she pretended that she was asleep. They went to work. They worked every day, they were obsessed with it. She was home alone. Roxy still slept because there was no message for her. She called Alex.

After half an hour he came with his car. He had a really nice car for a young man.

Rosy opened a door for him and he got in. They went to a kitchen and Rosy ate breakfast. She asked Alex if he wanted some, but he refused. After that, she looked at him and asked: ''Can you explain all this?''

Alex took a deep breath and started:''Your parents and my are close family friends. At least they were. At the night we found you, your parents were killed and you were in danger so we had to take you to a mortal world where no one of our enemies would expect you to be. These people who represent as your parents, they know that you aren't just human and they are our friends. They erased your memory. That man who you saw at the club, he is our enemy. He wants to kill our kind. He found out about you and you are a target. So you will have to go to my house under our protection. '' Rosy started scratching head: ''So what am I, or we?'' Alex laughed: '' You see we aren't vampires like from Twilight. We are vampires, fighters for our kind. Yes, we drink blood but only of our kind, and have fangs and special skills, gifts you would say. We live for a long time, but not forever. We grow like humans until the 18th birthday and then we change. My special skill is to teleport from one place to another. You, when you turn into a vampire maybe won't have any power because only the soldiers who protect our worlds from our enemies have that kind of power.

If you got power, you can join a Black Dagger to protect your kind like mine.

Rosy opened eyes: ''So that means I will change in a month?'' Alex nodded: ''So it is important for you to come to our house where we can protect you. Rosy: '' When? Now?'' Alex nodded again.

Alex and Rosy went to her room and started packing. She took everything she could. She stopped: ''But what will happen to the parents?'' Alex said while packing a case:'' Their memories will be erased for good.'' Rosy started silent crying, but didn't stop packing. Alex took bags to a car and she went down.

Rosy sat in the car and took a last look at the house that was her home for the last 14 years. Alex started driving and they were gone.

They drove for a long time. They came in front of the big gates. Alex made a call near the gates and the gates opened. They drove past a big house, that looked more like a fortress. He parked his car near other cars. Alex took her bags and told her to go in. There was a big hall and it was nicely decorated in baroque style. There were big stairs that led to the second floor. Alex went up the stairs and Rosy followed him.

They got in one room. It was big and it had dark decor, big bed with black sheets, and red walls. Alex put down her bags: ''There is a door on your left, they are leading to my room, so you are never alone.''

Rosy unpacked her bags and went down the stairs. Alex waited for her.

The door opened, three guys and one girl went in. They were all looking tired and dirty. They had guns and knives on them, also there was something black, like oil, on them. ''How was the hunt?'' Alex asked. A boy with black hair said:'' It was hard, but we got all of them. Who is she, is that Rosy?'' Alex nodded. At that moment an older looking man passed through the door, it was Alex's father. Rosy remembered him from before. He hugged her:''You changed soo much. You look just like your parents.''

A boy with black hair caughed. Alex looked:''Oh, I almost forgot. These are my comrades, my brothers, and sister, my family, not all related by blood. A girl with red hair is Anna, the guy with red hair and with one eye blue and one green is Casper, a guy with black hair is Oscar and the last with brown hair and green eyes is my older brother James. We hunt our enemies. '' Rosy met with all of them and she became family with them. The days passed and her birthday came closer. It wasn't easy. Rosy started to learn how to fight her enemy and all about them. She decided if she gets a gift that she will fight for her family. Rosy and Alex got attached to one another a lot and they fell in love. They became a couple.

28

Rosy woke up on her birthday and wanted to go to Alex's room but before she could do that, she fell. Alex found her and took her to bed. She was changing. Alex took a knife and made a cut on his wrist. Blood started dropping and she could smell it. He took his hand near her mouth. She drank until it was enough and fell asleep. After she woke up, her sight was better, all her senses were better, but she couldn't walk properly because all muscles in her body hurt her. It took her a few days to recover.

Alex and Rosy walked near the lake that was near the house and they were talking about the future because she didn't have a gift, yet. She brought a lighter and played with it until a flame appeared on her hand. She didn't expect that so she tried to turn it down but she actually burned a sleeve of Alex's shirt.

Alex stopped the fire and turned to Rosy. She hugged him: ''You know what this means?'' , and she kissed him.

She started training and became a part of a Black Dagger.

29

30

Igor Žarković Hey, my name is Igor and my surname is Žarković. I was born on 28th of October 2000 in Sisak, Croatia. But I live in a small town near Sisak, Petrinja.

The Orphanage Boy and The Nerd Girl " Ugh, just look at him! How can you say no to that face and those eyes?" - Emily squealed, pointing at the guy who was standing a few meters away from us. He was surrounded by a lot of his friends and they were laughing and talking about boy stuff. Probably about girls and cars. " He is so hot... just look at him!" - she didn't want to stop talking. I rolled my eyes at her before pulling out a book and repeating what I've studied the whole morning.

Well, I've tried to study. But, I failed. Thanks to my four year old cousin who wanted to be with me the whole morning. So, instead of studying chemistry, I have played with Barbie dolls and Lego blocks.

I attended Elementary school in Petrinja. During that time I was practising traditional dance. At the time I was number one Lady Gaga fan and pop was the only music genre I was listening (sometimes soul and R&B). Then it was time for High school. I enrolled in School of Economy. And I fell in love with classical music.

Especially opera. I found big interest in choirs and singers with big vocal abilities. But sometimes I'm listening to folk music. Besides music, I started watching tv shows and movies.

My favorite tv shows at the moment are Stranger things and Riverdale. And that's pretty much it.

" He is looking our way!" - Emily screamed and grabbed my shoulder shaking me. I rolled my eyes and looked up before looking at his direction. The first thing I've noticed was a cigarette in his mouth. I frowned and looked at her. " He is smoking. " - I said and shook my head. " When the guy " He is smoking. " - I said and shook my head. " When the guy smokes, that is a complete turn off if you smokes, that is a complete turn off if you ask me." ask me." " C'mon,everybody everybodysmokes smokesthese thesedays. days.

Don't you know " C'mon, Don't you know it'sit's soso in ?" - she said before looking at him and in ?" - He shewaved said before looking at him and He before wavedapproaching us. waving. back and said something to waving. his friends back something to hisI thought friends before approaching us. taking my eyes off of him. And he never This isand the said last thing I needed, to myself while never removed his creepy smirk while approaching us.

This is the last thing I needed, I thought to myself while never " Hey, ladies. Mind joining me and my boys? We'd like to be in a company of hot girls." - he said and taking my eyes off of him. And he never removed his creepy winked at us, making Emily to almost lose her conscious because she was so excited and speechless. smirk while approaching us.

I put the book back in the bag before putting bag over one shoulder, preparing to leave.

Hey,where ladies.are Mind joining me -and my boys? like to be inlooked a " "Hey, you going?"

Emily asked We'd and they both at me. I just shrugged and forced company of hot girls." he said and winked at us, making Emily myself to smile politely at them. I hate being rude. . to almost lose her conscious because she was so excited and speechless.

31

Igor Žarković

" I'd like to join you, but unfortunately I have to go. I can't skip chemistry exam." - I said in my most sweet tone, but all I got was his laugh. Rude laugh. " Who else is going on classes?" - he asked through laughter. I rolled my eyes at him, but still managed to be calm and polite. " Well, that test will not write itself. So, I have to go. I'm sorry." - I repeated, still sounding nice.

I'm not sorry actually, I thought to myself as I looked at him and wanted to roll my eyes again. He laughed again and it seemed like he will not stop with laughing. I frowned as if I couldn't understand what was funny. " Are you a nerd or something?" - he asked and I frowned at that direct and definitely not polite question. " Well, sorry for taking care of my future." - I said frustrated. He laughed again. " And I will leave now. Em, you're going with me?" - I glanced at Emily who was chewing on her lip as she was hesitating.

I let out frustrated sigh and rolled my eyes. " Fine, go with him. I don't care!" - I said in anger and turned around storming off.

He is conceited and full of confidence. He thinks he can have any girl he wants. Well, that is true, actually. Every girl is going crazy for him. I'm still trying to figure out why. He is nothing but a huge trouble. He is that bad guy who is always involved in fights.

If you look at him on a wrong way, you might end up beaten up, lying in the park, probably half dead.

Everyone is afraid of him.

Besides me. I guess I am the only person who doesn't care about him. And I am probably the only girl who is not attracted by him. While those girls are spending their time crying over him and dreaming about being his girlfriend, I am over here sleeping peacefully at night and having a normal life, not crying or worrying about him, or any other guy in this school.

He had it all --- he was surrounded by a lot of his friends and he could've had any girl he wanted.

Anywhere he'd go, he would never be alone. He was always in the center of everything. Although he was an orphan, he was popular amongst his peers. Everyone loved him.

Yes, he was never alone, but that didn't mean he wasn't feeling lonely. He did, indeed. He got tired of always being in the center of everything. He got tired of girls chasing him. And, most importantly, he got tired of fake friends surrounding him.

For the first time in his life, he wanted someone real. Someone who will not abandon him when tough situation arrives. |a month later | The bell rang, the teacher was still talking, but they all had already put books in their bags and got up, not even trying to do it in silence. I did the same thing before getting up and walking out.

The school's hallway was full of students, as always. They were all recklessly walking in all directions, bumping into each other and not even trying to apologize. I was trying to avoid bumping into people as much as it was possible.

And five minutes passed just like that. It rang again and in less than two minutes hallway was empty and quiet. I was being late for the English class, but for the first time in my life I didn't care. We were talking about Shakespeare and I found it kind of annoying and boring.

I walked in the school's canteen and sat at one of the tables. It was unusually quiet and peaceful. And empty. I looked around, enjoying being alone. " Don't you have to be on your class?" - I slightly jumped up and turned around, facing him. I frowned and rolled my eyes before looking down, completely shutting him down. Just when I thought he will

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" Don't you have to be on your class?" - I slightly jumped up and turned around, facing him. I frowned and rolled my eyes before looking down, completely shutting him down. Just when I thought he will leave, he sat opposite of me and cleared his throat. " Can I make you a company, please?" - he asked in unusual soft and polite tone. I looked up confused but nodded. " Sure. Whatever. " - I shrugged and looked down again as if I enjoyed the silence. It wasn't long when he interrupted it. " Now seriously, why are you here and not in the class?" " I don't think that's your business." - I said coldly and prepared to get up when he pulled me back down. I glanced at him, frowning. " Can you stay, please?" - he asked softly and smiled at me, making me even more confused. I nodded anyways and sat back down. " Thank you, sweetie." " No problem, I guess. " - I said confused and looked around. The atmosphere was kind of awkward and, honestly, I was scared of what was coming next. I was glancing at him, from time to time. He seemed to be in deep argue with himself. I could tell that by changes of his face expressions. " You know you look kind of funny, right?" - I whispered, receiving his look and a weak smile. " At least I'm entertaining you, right?" - he giggled quietly. It was strange. Being around someone who is conceited and full of confidence now looked like someone who is vulnerable and shy.

It's only my imagination, isn't it?, I thought to myself and shook my head. Why am I imagining him as someone who is cute and way better than what he really is? Why am I imagining something that doesn't exist? " I feel lonely. " - he whispered. " We all do, sometimes. It's just a part of being human. " - I shrugged and looked at him. He seemed like a different person. Nothing like he acted before. " That's comforting. " - he said sarcastically. " I feel sad. " " We all do, sometimes. It's just a part of being human. " - I said softly and smiled at him. He rolled his eyes at me and I don't know was it just to tease me or he really meant it. " I feel empty inside and ---- " "We all do, sometimes. It's just a part of being human. " - I cut him off and received a glare from him. " Aren't you smart and wise, huh?" - he said sarcastically and rolled eyes again. I giggled and shrugged. " I will say thank you although I smell a hint of sarcasm in your compliment. " " I'm trying to be serious for a change. " - he frowned and ran fingers through his hair, pulling on it. I frowned and placed my hand over his. " Sorry. Do you still want to talk about it?" - I asked softly and he looked at me, nodding weakly. I sent him an encouraging smile before carefully listening to him.

And in that moment, she realized it was only his surface she thought she knew. It was only his behavior trying to hide the vulnerable little boy hiding inside. He was so much more than a popular boy. And in fact, he wasn't anything of what he used to represent in front of his friends and girls. She judged him, without even trying to know him. And she learned her lesson.

You shouldn't judge people by their behavior or what they say. Because, there is so much more than meets the eye.

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Martina Culjaga My name is Martina Culjaga and I am 17 years old. I was born on 11th of November 2000 on St. Martin's day which is the reason why my parents named me Martina.

I am from small place near Sunja named Bistrač, I grow up there with my younger brother and sister.

My favourite animal is cat even though I adore dogs too. I have three cats and one dog and my favourite dog breed is akita inu, so my dream is to get myself a one.

On my free time I usually just watch movies and series and listen to the music, pretty much of all genres.

Sometimes I also try to be productive in my free time so I am learning Russian, mostly because I don't have anything smarter to do with my life. So far I pretty much didn't learn anything. Time that I don't spend at home with my cats, watching Teen Wolf and Stranger Things, I spend with my friends going out and having fun. That's all.

Momčilo Saragej Šabanović & Štefeni Ignjeta Žarstl

Not so long ago there were two very successful and well known detectives, maybe even the best detectives in the area.Their names were Momčilo Saragej Šabanović and Štefeni Ignjeta Žarstl.

Some people would say that the detectives were successful just because they were the only detectives in that area, but that is quite irrelevant.

Somewhere in the beginning of May Momčilo S. Šabanović and his partner in the fight against the crime Štefeni I. Žarstl got the most important task in their career. They were extremely excited about that case before they even heard what they would investigate, probably because that was their first case in years.

During those years when the job of the detective was not a priority, at least that's what they were saying, Momčilo S. Šabanović and Štefeni I. Žarstl were forced to start their own business with vans.The job was a total failure, but at the same time much more successful than the detective one.

After they managed to get through that big excitement of having a job, they took one of their vans and drove to the place of crime.

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Actually „the place of crime“ was the neighboring village called Sračevo and the van was completely unnecessary. They could have been there in about 10 minutes by walking, but it's not like they had any potential buyers for any of their vans, so this way at least someone was using them.

When they arrived to Sračevo they met up with the people who called them. They were newly married, not so young couple.

The lady named Divna Verica Živković was devastated, she couldn't stop crying, her eyes were filled with sadness and you could see that she had no more desire to live. Her husband Mr Živko Močni Živković told the detectives the cause of Mrs Divna's great grief.

Apparently, all of the twenty Mrs Divna's cats were missing. No one have seen anything, the cats were just yesterday happily living their best lives (all 180 of them) in the Mr and Mrs Živković's courtyard.

Martina Culjaga

Divna's grief was completely understood only by her best friend, that is of course if we don't count the cats as friends, Evilla de Tonec.

Evilla was the first neighbor to Mr and Mrs Živković and she considered those cats as her own too. Even though some people would say that she was oddly weird and maybe even crazy. That is mostly because the only people she had ever spoken to in the are of Sračevo was her rat pet named Miki-Mićo and Mrs Divna. And that was just one of the many wired things about Evilla de Tonec. But even so the people of Sračevo loved her.

On the other hand, Živković's other neighbor Nadija Krčma Krča was hated by the whole population of Sračevo. That may sound bad, but if we take into account the fact that Sračevo had a population of 7 people it is not that bad.There wasn't any good reason to hate her expect the jealousy and greed of her fellow citizens, because she owned the most cats in the whole Sračevo. That is why she was the first suspect on the case of missing cats.

Detectives Momčilo S. Šabanović and Štefeni I. Žarstl thoroughly and professionally investigated both neighbors. After a detalied rewiev of all evidence, what was exceptionally easy condsindering that the detectives couldn't find any credible evidence, it was decided that Nadija Krčma Krča is guilty.

While the proud Momčilo S. Šabanović and Štefeni I. Žarstl were in one of their many vans driving Nadija Krčma Krča to jail, Evilla de Tonec was putting stolen cats into a stolen van and together with her rat pet Miki-Mićo headed out of Sračevo.

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Marija Pucović My name is Marija Pucović, I was born on 23th of February 2001 in Zagreb.

From age 6 - 14 I attended elementary school in Petrinja.

From age 14 till now I'm attending business high school in Sisak.

Violet and Rose Dear Violet, I saved all the letters you wrote me. I keep them in a shoe box under my bed. I read them when I miss talking to you. Why did you stop writing to me?

You had moved to New York, but you promised you'd write. And you did..at first.

Before this we would write letters everyday, even though we lived in the same state. Just 6 hours away. I had your number, but you said you liked letters more.

So I kept writing them, for you.

You'd include pictures in some of yours, and I'd do the same with mine. I started putting the pictures in a photo book, in case I never got to meet you. I guess it was a good thing I did that, huh?

I like drawing, listening to music, travel, nice people, dance, food, different cultures, Japan, Korea and nature.

I dislike selfish, bad, evil, arrogant and boring people, stupid rules, spiders, too cold or too hot weather.

I'm not sure what to do with my life but I know that I don't want a boring job or life.

Because now here I am, writing you this letter but I don't even know if you'll get it.

You stopped writing to me two months after you got to New York. It was abrupt, nothing subtle about it. I tried to call you, but the number was unavailable. So I searched you on Facebook, your account was private and you never accepted my friend request.

I'm writing this letter after 5 months of nothing. I know we were just pen pals. But I had thought we'd meet some day. Hug and maybe go get an ice cream. I guess not.

Why did you stop writing? Did I say something in that last letter you received before you decided to stop? Or did you forget about me one day? Was I just a last thought to you? Did I mean anything to you?

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I devoted a year of my life to writing letters to you. I stayed up all night writing them so I could get them in the mail first thing in the morning when the post office opened. And then I waited everyday for your letter to arrive.

Like I said, I saved all of the letters you sent me. Same goes for the pictures too. Do you still have mine? Or did you throw them away? I thought you were really cute actually...one of the most beautiful girls I had ever seen.

I was open to you about everything. We kept our letters strictly friendly. But I wanted more. Could you sense that?

Is that why you stopped writing me 5 months ago? Maybe you have a girlfriend now and that's why. I can understand that, especially if you didn't like me the way I liked you.

I remember you told me about your first day in New York.

Marija Pucović You had said that your parents made you go out of the house and walk the streets. They said they wanted you to make friends. Maybe you did. I hope you did. I'm glad if you did.

If you thisyou letter, I miss And I wish you would If you get this letter, I miss you.

Andget I wish would writeyou. me again. me again.

This is my last letter to you.write So thank you for the ones you have written me before. I Thismine. is my last letter to you. So thank you for the ones you will keep them. I hope you kept have written me before. I will keep them. I hope you kept Sincerely, mine.

Sincerely, Rose Dear Rose,

Rose

I'm sorry I stopped replying to your letters. And I'm even more sorry it's taken me three years to reply to the last one you sent. I'm sure you've moved on with your life. I had, too. Until I heard about the accident.

Two years ago I moved back to my home town. I searched for you. Looked up your address, even got your new number. I never called or sent a letter though. And then one day I drove with a friend to your town. He had to visit family and asked me if I wanted to go with him. It was for the holidays and since my family was still in new York I agreed.

We were walking out of the small bakery. You know, the one you told me so much about. My friend's parents loved the apple pie there. If I remember right, that's your favorite. I never understood why you liked pie so much. Or even apples for that matter.

Anyways, as we walked out of the bakery, you bumped into me. You looked right into my eyes and smiled, embarrassment all over your face. My heart stopped and I couldn't breathe in that moment. I knew it was you because of your short ginger hair and those piercing green eyes.

You apologized and grabbed your bags from the ground. Only you forgot something.

Something I wish I hadn't picked up. It was a purple velvet box. You were already long gone when I realized you had left it on the sidewalk. I opened it and saw the pink crystal ring inside. You always told me you would get married some day. Have kids, own a nice house with lots of pets. I guess it was crazy of me to think I still had a chance.

My friend told me he recognized you from school. He said you two were in every class together for your whole school period. Lucky for me, he knew where you lived.

I knew I should have gone to your house with him that night. I shouldn't have stayed back at his parents' house. I had told him all about you when we got back into the car.

So he said I didn't have to go with him. He should have waited. There was a storm coming and he knew that. But he still went to your house to give you that ring.

He didn’t come back for a while and then I got a phone call. The phone call that brought me to the floor. The hospital called and told me he was in an accident with a girl.

I later found out that he told you I was with him and you wanted to see me. Why did you want to see me? Why did he insist on giving that ring back to you? Why did he leave the hospital with a cut on his head but you stayed there hooked up to machines and covered in cuts and bruises?

Now you’re in a coma and you might never wake up. It’s been four months since the accident. I never got to tell you I loved you. So here, this letter is my confession. Rose, I’m in love with you.

Love, Violet

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