The ' Unseen' Autumn

*The Warehouse*

Autumn's resolve crumbled.

"Okay," Autumn whispered.

Neisha smiled.

"Good choice, baby girl."

A masked figure handed Autumn a black mask.

"Put it on," Neisha instructed.

Autumn donned the mask, her heart racing.

Neisha led her to a dimly lit room.

Pam, gagged and bound, lay on the floor.

Cameras surrounded her.

"Fight or kill," Neisha whispered. "Your choice."

Autumn's eyes locked onto Pam.

Memories flooded her mind.

Ryder's betrayal.

Pam's taunts.

The school fight.

Autumn's fists clenched.

She knelt beside Pam.

Pam's eyes pleaded.

Autumn's mask hid her tears.

With a deep breath, Autumn began.

Would you like me to continue?Autumn Long trudged through the school halls, her eyes scanning the crowded corridors. As a senior, she'd grown accustomed to being an outsider, invisible to her classmates. Her lonely high school experience had left her yearning for connection.

That's when she spotted Neisha, the undisputed queen bee. Neisha's vibrant green and pink Bronco stood out in the parking lot, a symbol of her status. Her latest smartphone never left her hand, its camera capturing every moment for her amassed followers.

Neisha's life was a 24/7 broadcast, each moment meticulously curated for her social media audience. Autumn watched, fascinated and intimidated, as Neisha effortlessly commanded attention.

"Why can't that be me?" Autumn whispered to herself.

But Neisha's seemingly perfect world hid secrets. Behind the screens and smiles, Autumn sensed a hunger for validation, a craving for genuine connection.

As Autumn observed Neisha's world, she began questioning the true cost of popularity. Was being noticed worth losing oneself?

---

---

Autumn's heart pounded as 4th period arrived, the classroom's fluorescent lights humming to life. She had decided to take a chance and talk to Neisha, determined to make her senior year more exciting.

Neisha settled beside Autumn, her perfume wafting through the air, a familiar routine given their tutoring sessions. Autumn's eyes widened as Neisha and friends eagerly discussed plans for an after-school party, their whispers and giggles filling the room.

As the teacher began the lesson, Neisha's phone buzzed nonstop, its screen glowing softly. She discreetly texted, finalizing party details, her thumbs dancing across the keyboard.

Autumn seized the moment, clearing her throat and tapping Neisha's hand. Neisha turned, surprised, her expressive eyes locking onto Autumn's.

"I wanted to know if I could come to your party tonight?" Autumn asked, her voice steady.

Neisha's face lit up, a bright smile spreading. "Gurl, yeah! I didn't know you liked to party; that's why I never asked you before."

"I've never been to a party, but I'd love to," Autumn admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Neisha grinned, her voice filled with warmth. "Well, you know where I live. Party's at 7. Need a ride? I'll Uber you. Just hit my line."

Autumn shook her head, returning her focus to the teacher's soothing voice. Neisha's response lingered, warm and inviting, like a gentle breeze.

For the first time, Autumn felt seen.

As the bell rang, signaling the end of class, Neisha turned to Autumn. "Hey, don't forget, 7 p.m.!" she reminded, her voice blending with the chatter of students.

Autumn smiled, a spark of excitement igniting within, like fireworks exploding in the night sky. Tonight marked the beginning of her newfound visibility.

---

Autumn rushed home, excitement coursing through her veins. She dialed Eddy's number, eager to share the news. Eddy's her best friend and homeschooled.

"Hey, girl! Guess what?" Autumn tells Eddy about the party at Neisha's.

Eddy's sigh echoed through the line. "But why, Autumn? You don't need some popular girl to make you feel good about yourself. You're beautiful, smart, and that's all that matters."

Autumn's anger flared. "I'm 17 and have never had a kiss or even a boy to call mine. I want to feel seen, Eddy."

Eddy's resignation was palpable. "Ok, ok. Do what makes you happy."

The line went dead.

Autumn shrugged, undeterred. She strode to her closet, scanning the dull array of clothes. Transformation time.

In her zebra-print bathroom, Autumn shed her glasses for contacts, freeing her face. She unraveled her ponytail, straightening her hair, and curled it with precision.

Black leggings, boots, and a halter top emerged from her closet, paired with a silver choker, pinky ring, and diamond necklace. Autumn admired her reflection.

Sarah, her mom, entered the room, enveloped by Autumn's perfume. Shock gave way to delight.

"You look stunning, Autumn! Where are you headed?"

"Neisha's party. It's at 7. I'll be home by 10."

Sarah smiled. "First party ever, and you're responsible. Stay till 12, baby."

Autumn squealed, thrilled. "Are you serious?"

Sarah nodded. "Of course."

Autumn hugged her mom tightly, finishing her look. She texted Neisha.

"Uber's on its way," Neisha replied.

Autumn sat on the porch, anticipation building.

Tonight marked her debut into the visible world.

---

Autumn stepped into Neisha's vibrant home, the pulsating beat of the music enveloping her. She found Neisha in the kitchen, sipping a strawberry daiquiri with her mom, Tamara.

Neisha rushed over, arms open wide. "Hey, girl! Wanna drink?"

Autumn hesitated. "Is there alcohol in it?"

Neisha exchanged a mischievous glance with Tamara, laughing. "Plenty."

Tamara handed Autumn a colorful glass, adorned with umbrellas and fruit. "Relax, sweetie, and have some fun."

Autumn took a tentative sip, the sweet and tangy flavors dancing on her tongue.

As Neisha merged with the crowd, Autumn let the music consume her. She closed her eyes, allowing her body to sway.

The living room transformed into a whirlwind of laughter, colors and movement. Autumn's inhibitions melted away.

Suddenly, a gentle touch on her shoulder broke her trance. "You're gorgeous when you smile," a soft voice whispered.

Autumn's eyes opened to find a charming stranger, his warm gaze locked onto hers.

"Thanks," she replied, her voice barely audible over the music.

Neisha appeared, grinning mischievously. "Autumn, this is Ryder. My friend from next door. Ryder, this is Autumn, my tutor and potential bestie."

Ryder's smile widened. "Nice to meet you, Autumn."

Autumn's heart skipped a beat. Did Autumn just find herself being one of Neisha's besties?

Autumn's mind lingered on Neisha's words as she dissolved into the crowd, vibrant lights flashing around her. Ryder's hand found hers, warm fingers intertwining, guiding her through the swirling sea of bodies.

As they danced, Autumn's inhibitions melted away. She spun around, grinding against Ryder, his hands exploring her curves, sending shivers.

"Your smile lights up the room," Ryder whispered.

The music blurred, and they slipped into the kitchen. Shots lined the counter, alongside small pills promising intensified sensations.

"Try this," Ryder said, handing her a shot.

Autumn downed it, feeling the burn.

Time warped; 10:30 flashed on her phone.

Dazed, Autumn sank onto the sofa, watching dancers swirl around her, colors blending.

Ryder appeared, concern etched on his face. "Let's get some fresh air."

Outside, Autumn's legs wobbled. Ryder's arms steadied her, his touch warm.

"I'm okay, just dizzy," she whispered.

Ryder's lips claimed hers, passion igniting.

"I want you," he breathed, his voice husky.

Autumn's heart soared.

"My parents aren't home. Wanna come over?" Ryder asked, eyes sparkling.

"Sure," Autumn replied, nerves dissolving.

At Ryder's house, basketball memorabilia adorned his room. A mini hoop hung on his door. Fresh laundry scent filled the air.

"Shower with me?" Ryder asked, his eyes burning.

Autumn nodded, her pulse racing.

Water cascaded down, washing away doubts. Ryder's hands caressed her, sending shivers.

Ryder's bed enveloped them, his touch igniting fireworks. Soft music played in the background.

"You're beautiful," Ryder whispered.

In that moment, Autumn was the only woman in the world.

---

---

Autumn and Ryder slept, entwined in each other's arms, basking in the afterglow of their magical night.

At 3:30 a.m., Autumn stirred, gently untangling herself. She quickly dressed, gathered her belongings and called a cab.

As she waited, Ryder stirred, his voice laced with sleep. "Leaving already?"

Autumn smiled. "Yeah, gotta get home."

Ryder walked her out, sharing a tender kiss under the starry sky.

The cab ride home was a blur. Autumn's mind replayed the unforgettable night.

Upon arriving, she checked on her mom, peacefully asleep.

In her room, Autumn twirled before the mirror, radiant with joy.

The shower's warm waters washed away the old Autumn.

Snuggled in bed, Autumn's fingers danced across her phone.

She found Ryder on social media and followed his pages.

Neisha received a text: "Thanks for the invite! Had an amazing time!"

Autumn's heart swelled, anticipating the new day.

---

Autumn and Neisha spent the day collaborating on the writing project, their laughter filling the school halls. Neisha had offered Autumn $400 to complete the project.

At lunchtime, Autumn spotted Ryder outside, sitting with Pam at a table in the eating area.

Their eyes met, and smiles were exchanged.

But Pam, Ryder's companion, noticed.

She strode over, fiery-eyed. "Why are you staring and smiling at MY man?"

Autumn's smile never wavered. "Girl, if he's your man, why was he with me last night?"

Pam's face twisted.

She stood, fist clenched.

Ryder intervened, but Pam resisted.

She kicked Autumn, striking her chin.

Autumn's lip bled, nose leaking.

Fury unleashed, Autumn snatched herself free from Ryder.

She pounded Pam's face repeatedly.

Pam crumpled, coughing blood.

Neisha stopped live-streaming, rushing to separate them.

Teachers intervened, shocked.

"Call the police! And an ambulance!" one exclaimed.

Pam lay motionless on the cafeteria floor.

Neisha patted Autumn's shoulder, giggling uncontrollably. "I need you as a bodyguard, girl!"

Ryder stood frozen.

His gaze shifted between Autumn and Pam.

The police and ambulance arrived.

Officers restrained Autumn.

Pam was stretchered away.

The school principal approached.

"Autumn, what happened?"

Autumn's voice trembled. "She attacked me."

Neisha chimed in. "I've got it all on live, Principal Hemsworth."

---

---

The school's bustling hallways echoed with whispers and gasps, the fight replaying in every student's mind.

As Autumn walked, heads turned, eyes locked onto hers.

"Yo, that was insane!" someone shouted.

"Autumn, you went beast mode!" another exclaimed.

Neisha chuckled, strolling beside Autumn. "Girl, you've got the whole school talking."

Autumn smiled wearily, her eyes scanning the crowded corridors.

Lockers creaked open and shut, students swapping stories.

"Did you see Pam's face?"

"I knew Autumn had it in her!"

"It's always the quiet ones."

The cafeteria buzzed with chatter, tables filled with excited students reenacting the fight.

Teachers patrolled, attempting to restore order.

Pam's suspension news spread like wildfire.

Two weeks.

Autumn breathed a sigh of relief.

No charges.

No suspension.

Just a warning because she didn't start the fight.

Her phone buzzed nonstop.

Messages poured in from her socials.

"Girl, you okay?"

"What happened?"

"Damn, that was intense!"

Autumn's fingers flew across the screen.

Responding.

Explaining.

Laughing.

Ryder appeared, concern etched on his face.

"Hey, Autumn, you good?"

Autumn nodded.

Their eyes locked.

The bell rang.

Classrooms filled.

Autumn settled in.

Still, whispers lingered.

"Autumn vs. Pam."

"The Fight."

"Autumn's Revenge."

Her name echoed.

Temporary but she loved the attention and doesn't want it to end.

---

Days passed, Autumn wanted to know why Ryder hadn't officially told people that they were together.

Autumn stood before Ryder's door, determination fueling her, seeking answers after days of silence.

He opened it, surprise etched on his face, his expression tense.

"What are you doing here?" Ryder asked, voice laced with annoyance.

"You've been ignoring me," Autumn replied, voice firm, eyes searching. "After everything, I thought you owed me an explanation. Are you with Pam?"

Ryder stepped out, closing the door softly behind him.

"Pam and I have been off and on for years," Ryder admitted, gaze avoiding Autumn's.

Autumn's eyes widened, hurt seeping in.

"So why did you take my virginity?" she demanded, voice cracking. "Did you think I was just some whore?"

Ryder's expression turned cold, his words cutting.

"You were a good easy lay," he said. "We could do it again, but if you think I'll leave Pam over your weird ass, that's crazy unrealistic."

Autumn's world crumbled.

"So you played me?" she whispered, tears streaming down her face.

Her eyes swelled, heart shattered.

She turned, fleeing to the waiting cab.

Ryder's voice faded behind her.

"Autumn, wait!"

The cab door shut.

Autumn wept uncontrollably.

Her phone buzzed.

Ryder's messages her.

Ignored.

Neisha's texts appeared.

---

"Hey girl, where are you?"

Autumn replied.

"Ryder's. He played me, Neisha."

Neisha responded.

"Come to John's Warehouse. It's on Green Street. It's about ten minutes from where you are."

---

Autumn sobbed uncontrollably in the cab, giving the driver the warehouse address.

"Why is Neisha at a warehouse?" Autumn wondered.

The cab stopped before a dimly lit warehouse.

Four black SUVs lined the exterior, shrouded in darkness.

Autumn paid the driver and texted Neisha.

"I'm here."

Neisha emerged, beckoning Autumn inside.

"What's going on?" Autumn asked.

Neisha halted in the hallway.

"Look, I have a way for you to become a millionaire in minutes."

Autumn's confusion deepened.

"What are you talking about?"

Neisha's voice dropped.

"Well, my money isn't from my family. There's a backdoor, black market kind of thing where you fight and..."

She paused, scanning their surroundings.

"Where's your phone?"

Autumn handed Neisha her phone, which was promptly shut down.

Neisha continued.

"Kill someone, and they'll give you a million dollars."

Autumn's eyes widened.

"So, why am I here? I don't need that money."

Neisha smiled.

"I was the same way, baby girl, but look, after this, you'll be rich, and everyone will know you and be jealous of you and your lifestyle. They do these fights every three months, so it's very lucrative."

Autumn stepped back.

"Why do I have to do it tonight? Why can't you 'fight' whoever it is and get your million?"

Autumn walked toward the door.

Neisha stopped her.

"Because I got them to get Pam."

Autumn froze, her heart racing.

She turned to Neisha.

"Pam?"

Neisha's eyes gleamed.

"She's in there, tied up and ready for you. My people are in there with their cameras. You put on a mask of your choice at the door and go in and fight her or just kill her. Very simple. Also, you'll always have me as a friend. I have the money, the people and the connections. This is why my circle has gotten smaller because those girls are soft. You are different, Autumn."

Autumn's mind reeled.

Was this a trap?

---

*The Warehouse*

Autumn's resolve crumbled.

"Okay," Autumn whispered.

Neisha smiled.

"Good choice, baby girl."

A masked figure handed Autumn a black mask.

"Put it on," Neisha instructed.

Autumn donned the mask, her heart racing.

Neisha led her to a dimly lit room.

Pam, gagged and bound, lay on the floor.

Cameras surrounded her.

"Fight or kill," Neisha whispered. "Your choice."

Autumn's eyes locked onto Pam.

Memories flooded her mind.

Ryder's betrayal.

Pam's taunts.

The school fight.

Being a nobody.

Autumn's fists clenched.

She knelt beside Pam.

Pam's eyes pleaded.

Autumn's mask hid her tears.

With a deep breath, Autumn began.

----

Autumn's kicks intensified, fury unleashing.

Pam's cries faded, her body limp.

Neisha nodded, expressionless.

"Well done, baby girl."

Neisha turned to her people.

"Get rid of the body."

They swiftly obeyed.

Autumn stood, panting, mask still on.

She fled the room, gasping for air.

Her boots and pants were blood-soaked.

Autumn's eyes widened in horror.

Neisha approached, composed.

"I'm going to need your bank information," Neisha said. "So they can transfer the funds."

Autumn burst into tears.

Neisha continued.

"Your live stream went crazy. Most views in six months."

"They said they do want you to come back again."

Autumn sobbed.

"I don't want to do it again."

Neisha smirked.

"Well, at least now you can say that your senior year was your favorite year. Now that Pam's gone, you may can get Ryder now."

Autumn's tears dried.

"Now that I'm rich," Autumn declared. "I can get any man I want."

Neisha hugged Autumn.

"That's right."

Autumn smiled, cold determination sparking within.

*--Six Months Later--*

Autumn graduated from high school and opened a bakery, "Sweet Delights," flourished, filled with sugary aromas and warm lighting.

But shadows lingered, haunting her.

Familiar faces visited daily, sipping coffee and proposing more money.

The fight organizers.

Their voices echoed in her mind.

Autumn hesitated, weighing morality against wealth; denying their opportunities.

A month passed, seasons changing.

A masked woman walked in the bakery's kitchen with Autumn.

"We offer ten million now, ten million after," she said.

"Find two people. No killing necessary from you."

Autumn agreed, seduced by the promise.

Twenty million meant freedom, a life untethered.

That evening, Autumn texted Neisha and Eddy.

"Meet me at the warehouse. I have a business proposal."

A convincing lie.

The masked woman let them into the warehouse, her presence unsettling.

Huge masked men seized Neisha and Eddy, their grip brutal.

Violently dragged, screaming, their voices muffled by soundproof walls.

Autumn whispered, unease creeping.

"You promised no killing."

The woman laughed, her voice cold.

"You are cold-blooded to offer up Neisha but it's a smart move, more money and opportunities for you."

Autumn's stomach churned.

"What have I done?" she thought.

She donned a mask, her heart racing.

Entered the room, heavy with dread.

Chains whipped, cracking through air.

Gasoline poured, its pungent smell overwhelming.

Screams echoed, piercing her soul.

Autumn rushed to Eddy's side, horror unfolding.

Eddy's eyes met Autumn's, pleading.

"I hope you're noticed now."

Eddy's body went limp, lifeless.

Autumn's world shattered, fragmented.

Her senses reeled.

The stench of gasoline.

The sound of screams stopped.

The feel of despair.

Autumn's mask hid her anguish.

---

Autumn's world shattered.

But her resolve strengthened.

She claimed her reward.

Twenty million dollars.

Wealth and power.

Autumn became the queen finding willing participants.

A never-ending cycle.

Kill or be killed.

Autumn's conscience wrestled.

But ambition prevailed.

She craved this lifestyle.

Luxury and recognition.

Never again a nobody.

Autumn's mask hid her soul and her heart hardened.

The End.