A Year Later
Ethan's Pov

I took a few deep breaths as I look at myself in the mirror, wanting to make sure that I look alright before leaving.

It's been a year since Alison went missing and to say things have changed would be an understatement. When we called the police, we were all interrogated, which is understandable since they wanted to know everything that happened.

After that, things changed.

Ever since Alison went missing, the girls all went their separate ways and lost touch with each other.

But I never lost touch with any of them.

I still text Emily and Aria. However, I mostly text and call Hanna every single day.

It's as I said before, I was and will always be closer to Hanna then the other girls. I couldn't just lose touch with her when we bonded really well. I didn't want to lose my friendship with her or the other girls.

However, let me tell you that she's changed completely.

Over the past year Hanna started hanging out with Mona, who by the way has changed so much as well, she started losing weight.

Whatever she did really helped because she lost a ton of weight. She's become a totally different person now.

She's officially the new 'it' girl at school.

Everyone loves her, there are some that hate her, but keep it to themselves.

I gotta admit, she's become a bit more intimidating. It makes me really proud of how far she's come.

But despite how popular she is now and how much she's changed, she's still the same Hanna I remember from the past.

Moving on from that, life has been great so far. Not normal, normal, but as normal as it's gonna get.

My older sister, Melissa, is bringing her fiance over tomorrow for a family dinner.

My parents are excited to meet him, I am too. Though, Spencer is a different story.

Lets just say that Melissa and Spencer have a love hate relationship. But most of the time they argue.

While me and Melissa have a great relationship. She loves me just as much as I do. She's protective of me and would do anything to help me.

Trust me, I love both my sisters, but they're honestly way too much.

Makes me wish I had a brother.

Since her fiance will be coming tomorrow, mom wants me and Spencer to look our best.

I already have an outfit, so I'm good.

Spencer, however, doesn't. She's been busy with a few things of her own that she never had the time to go shopping.

I really didn't want to go shopping, considering I'm fine with the clothes I have already.

But Spencer didn't want to go alone. And me being the best twin brother I am, I decided to go so she wouldn't be lonely.

I jumped when I heard a knock at my door. Turning around I saw the door opening, revealing my lovely twin sister.

"Hey, Ethan. You ready, we gotta go" Spencer said.

"Yeah, let me get my shoes on and I'll be down soon" I said.

She smiled and nodded before leaving, closing the door behind her. I sighed and quickly grabbed my shoes and put them on.

Once they were on I grabbed my jacket and left my room to head downstairs.

At The Mall

One word, bored.

I was completely bored.

Spencer was literally searching through so many racks just to find a shirt. She already had pants, she was just trying to find a shirt.

I seriously don't understand why she needs to spend this much time on a shirt.

I may be best friends with girls, but that doesn't mean I'll ever get used to their addiction to shopping.

Especially Hanna's.

While Spencer searching through another rack, I was on my phone, trying to pass time.

"Hey bro, what about this one?" Spencer asked.

I looked up from my phone to see Spencer holding a white long sleeve shirt.

I looked at her with a blank look on my face and just shrugged.

"Looks nice. Buy it" I said, looking back down at my phone.

"Come on bro, you're supposed to be helping me" Spencer said in slight annoyance.

I sighed and looked up, putting my phone in my pocket and crossing my arms.

"Oh come on sis, you know I'm not good with this type of stuff" I said.

"Yet you were friends with me and the girls back then and did everything with us" Spencer said, raising an eyebrow at me.

"Doesn't mean I'm a fashion expert" I scoffed.

"What about all those times Hanna takes you shopping?" Spencer asked.

"Look, I love her, she's my best friend. But it's honestly so tiring having to go shopping with her" I said, rubbing my eyes.

Spencer giggled and shook her head, taking the shirt off the rack.

"I cannot believe Spencer Hastings and Ethan Hastings actually have time to shop" we heard Hanna say.

We turned around to see Hanna walking towards us, a smile on her face.

I smiled at her while Spencer giggled and shook her head at her.

"Hey buttercup" I smiled, kissing her temple.

"Hey bubs" Hanna smiled, ruffling my hair.

"Oi!" I whisper yelled at her, gently shoving her hand away to fix my hair.

Hanna smirked smugly, causing me to roll my eyes at her while chuckling at the end. She then turned to Spencer.

"I mean your interning for the mayor, taking classes at Hollis and redoing the barn, and in your lesuire moments you facebook and tweet" Hanna smiled.

"You know me, I like to stay busy" Spencer said, causing me to nod.

"That's my twin sis for you" I said.

Spencer fondly rolled her eyes at me while Hanna giggled.

"Its called a summer vacay, Spence. Ethan understood it more than you. Other then reading that one book" Hanna smiled, rolling her eyes at the end.

I glared at her, no heat behind it, just some amusement.

"Yeah and you spent yours sunning and shopping" I said with a small smile.

"Tweet, tweet" Hanna smiled, winking at me and my sister.

Me and Spencer laughed, Hanna joining us a few seconds later.

Man, I missed this. All three of us together. I wish that Emily and Aria were here, I'd love for the gang to band back together.

The laughter soon died down and so did mine and Spencer's smiles.

"Did you see the paper today?" I asked.

"Yeah" Hanna nodded, her smile slowly fading.

"She's gone but she's everywhere" Spencer said.

"Can't believe its been a year" Hanna said, sighing at the end.

I nodded, a frown on my face as I shifted a bit uncomfortably. Hanna noticed and gently slipped her hand into mine, giving me comfort.

I turned to her and gave her a small smile and nod.

I felt a hand on my shoulder and turned to see it was Spencer, giving me a small sad smile.

I smiled at both her and Hanna, grateful for their comfort.

Before Alison went missing, me and her were best friends, I was close to her just as I was close to Hanna.

And unlike the girls, I was never scared of her. I never let her talk shit about me, whether it were behind my back or right in my face. 

But despite the fact that she was a bit of a bitch, she was still my best friend. And it pains me to know that she's still missing.

"Do you remember what Ali said that night? About out secrets keeping us close?" I asked, finally snapping out of my thoughts.

Hanna and Spencer both nodded, Spencer removing her hand from my shoulder.

While Hanna kept her hand in mine, which I was thankful for.

"Well I think it was the opposite" Spencer said.

I nodded, agreeing with my twin, while Hanna just looked a bit uncomfortable. I don't really blame her.

"So. What's the occasion?" Hanna asked, looking at the shirt that Spencer was holding.

"Family dinner, meeting Melissa's fiance" Spencer said and I nodded.

Me and Spencer walked away from the racks so that Spencer could pay for the shirt. Hanna gasped and followed behind us.

"Did Ms.Perfect find Mr.Perfect?" Hanna asked.

"He's a med student so everybody's thrilled" I sarcastically said.

Spencer chuckled and nodded before placing the shirt on top of the counter. The lady by the register smiled at her and nodded, taking out a bag to put the shirt in.

"Then that's not the right top. You need to turn heads" Hanna grinned.

"Gotta agree with buttercup" I smiled, pointing at her.

Hanna giggled before she walked over to a nearby rack and started going through the shirts, trying to find the perfect one.

Spencer looked at her and scoffed.

"Away from Melissa? Please" Spencer said.

"Oh come on sis. I love Melissa, but I think it's time for you to outshine her and take the win" I smiled.

Spencer gave me a faint smile, her eyes showing appreciation but some insecurity too.

Hanna shook her head and took out a pretty purple top. My best friend certainly has a good eye for fashion.

"She doesn't always have to win" Hanna sincerely said, holding out the shirt to her.

Spencer looked at her before looking at the shirt in her hand. I sighed and gently nudged her arm, telling her to accept the shirt.

She sighed but nodded and took the shirt from her.

"See you on the playground" Hanna grinned at both of us.

"See you" Spencer said.

"See you tomorrow at school buttercup" I smiled, kissing her forehead.

"See you bubs" Hanna smiled.

She blew me and Spencer a kiss before turning around and walking away to head back downstairs.

I sighed and turning back around and grabbing the white shirt Spencer picked out earlier.

"I may not be a fashion expert, but even I know that the purple top is better than this one. So, you're buying that one" I sternly but gently said.

Spencer rolled her eyes, but the smile was still on her face as she nodded.

I chuckled and kissed her forehead before walking away, wanting to put the shirt back where it was.

Once that was done, Spencer paid for the shirt and we left the mall to get home.

The Next Day
At School

I was waiting at the front of school, waiting for Emily since we promised we'd go into class together.

When I saw her, I smiled and walked over to her.

"Morning Em" I smiled.

"Hey Ethan" Emily smiled.

We both embraced each other in a hug before pulling away a few seconds later.

"Hand me your bag" I sternly said, holding my hand out for her.

"Ethan come on, I can carry my bags. I'm strong" Emily said, pouting at me in slight annoyance and amusement.

"I know, but I'm not letting my best friend carry two bags. My mom raised me to be a gentleman. So, hand one over" I said.

Emily sighed and fondly rolled her eyes at me before handing me her swim bag, making me smile at her.

Before either of us could head inside, we spotted a familiar face a few feet away from us.

I squinted my eyes before they went wide in shock and realization.

Me and Emily looked at each other before nodding as we walked over to the girl we think might be our other best friend.

"Aria?" me and Emily asked as we walked closer to the girl.

She turned around and I smiled brightly, confirming that we were right.

It is Aria. My other best friend that I haven't seen since she left for Europe.

Her eyes widen when she saw us before a huge smile appeared on her face.

"Emily! Ethan!" Aria yelled.

"When did you get back?" I asked, still smiling at her.

But instead of answering, all three of us smiled brightly at each other and pulled each other into a group hug.

It would've been better if Spencer, Hanna and maybe one day Alison would've been involved in this group hug.

After a few seconds we pulled away, still smiling at each other since we were really happy.

"Yesterday" Aria said, answering my question from before.

"I almost didn't recognize you" Emily said and I nodded.

"Yeah. I remember that the last time we saw each other, you had a pink stripe in your hair" I said, pointing to her hair that no longer had a pink stripe.

Emily nodded while Aria chuckled and touched her hair.

"Yeah, that's what happens when your parents want you to be yourself but you don't know who you are yet" Aria said, moving her hands around.

"You wore it well, you should have called. It's so weird running into you here"Emily said.

We all walked closer to the school as we kept on looking at each other as we were talking.

"Oh. Well we kind of lost touch, Emily, remember?" Aria said.

"That's what we had to do" Emily said.

"Not me at least" I muttered under my breath, shaking my head.

Aria must've heard me because she let out a small giggle, before she went back to being a bit serious.

"I saw a poster of Alison yesterday" Aria said.

Me and Emily looked at each other before sighing and nodding. I hate when someone brings up the poster of Alison. Just brings back memories.

"It's awful, I mean we all know she's dead right?" Emily asked.

The school bell rang and all the students were heading inside, wanting to get in to get to class on time.

I sighed and ran a hand through my hair.

It's been a year and the police still have no leads on Alison.

And while it has been a while, I don't want to believe that there's a possibility she's dead.

I mean, this is Alison we're talking about. From what I remember, that girl was never scared of anything or anyone.

If anything people were scared of her.

I refuse to believe that my best friend is dead.

"I've just never heard anyone say it" Aria said.

The three of us all looked at each other and nodded before we walked up the stairs to head inside.

We walked through the hallways together before we walked inside the classroom.

"So I hear the new teacher's really hot" Emily smiled as we walked towards our seats.

"Gross" I gagged, earning giggles from both Emily and Aria.

I don't need to hear my two girl best friends talking about how the new teacher is hot.

I placed Emily's swim bag on the ground next to her desk before taking my seat, placing my bag on the ground.

I was sitting in front of Emily, so I was at least near her and Aria.

When Aria sat down, Hanna walked in and walked over to her seat. When Aria saw her, her eyes widen in shock as she looked at me and Emily.

"Is that Hanna?" Aria asked.

Me and Emily smiled, releasing small laughs at the shocked look on Aria's face.

"She's the 'it' girl now" Emily said and I nodded.

Then Mona walks in, immediately going to her seat, which was right next to Hanna's.

"And where there's Hanna there's Mona" I said with a fond smile, shaking my head.

Aria got a good look at Mona before turning back to us, looking more shocked then when she saw Hanna.

"That's Mona?" Aria asked.

"Can you believe it?" Emily asked.

"Wow, talk about a makeover" Aria breathed out.

Aria shook her head before turning to their direction, giving them a smile and wave. Mona ignored her, while Hanna gave her a fake smile and waved.

But they both turned and smiled at me, a real one, and waved.

I chuckled and smiled at them, waving too before they both looked away.

Aria's smiled faded and she put her hand down and looked at me and Emily.

"What's up with her? Are you guys fighting?" Aria asked in confusion.

I sighed and shook my head, Emily doing the same.

"We didn't just lose touch with you, Aria, we all fell out of touch with each other" Emily said, a hint of sadness in her tone.

"Well, those three lost touch with each other. I still talk to Emily and Hanna. Mostly Hanna" I said.

Aria nodded in understanding and I could see sadness in her eyes.

I take out my notebook and look up, just in time to see Spencer walking in.

Her and Hanna make eye contact with each other, Spencer smile shyly at her and nods before making her way to her seat.

I sighed and looked at Aria, gesturing to those two.

"They're not so close with each other too" I said and Emily nodded.

"So they're friendly but not friends" Aria said.

"Basically" me and Emily said, looking at each other before letting out small laughs.

We hear footsteps and the new teacher walks in. Everyone quickly stops what they're doing to get into their seats.

I took out a few more books, along with my pen.

The new teacher was busy writing his name on the board. Looks like his name is Mr. Fitz.

Shaking my head, I start writing on my notebook, ready to start class and just get it over with since we've got an entire day ahead of us.

However, when I looked up I saw that the new teacher was frozen from where he was standing.

His smile disappeared into a frown, his eyes were slightly wide open and I could see some realization and shock in them.

I was confused as to what he was shocked about, and what the hell is he looking at?

"Holy crap" Mr. Fitz said, a little bit too loudly for that matter.

Of course, we all heard and turned to the direction he was looking at. And to my shock he was looking at Aria.

Aria picked her head up and when her eyes made contact with Mr. Fitz, they went wide in realization and disbelief.

Then her phone rings, causing her to blush in embarrassment as she quickly grabbed it.

"Sorry" Aria said.

Mr. Ftiz cleared his throat and nodded, trying to get rid of the awkward tension.

"Uh, I'm Mr. Fitz your new English teacher" Mr. Fitz said.

While everyone looked away from Aria and went back to what they were doing, I was looking at her and Mr. Fitz with narrowed eyes.

I was clearly suspicious. I mean, I am a Hastings. Not to mention Spencer's twin brother. 

I'm very good at realizing what's wrong. And something tells me there's something going on between Aria and Mr. Fitz.

And trust me, I plan on finding out, one way or another.

Back At Home

School was over, thank the lords. I may like school, but it's honestly just too much stress and pressure.

Once me and Spencer had gotten home I got to work on homework. I don't like leaving things till the last minute.

I finished with nearly all my homework, just had a few more left. Before I could work on that, me and Spencer walked outside to head to the barn.

Spencer had turned the barn into a loft and it was absolutely amazing. 

And since our older sister, Melissa, was coming over with her fiance she decided to take a look at it herself.

I just hope that nothing happens while they're here.

It's as I said before, Melissa and Spencer have a love hate relationship.

Melissa walked out of the barn, or well loft, and walked over to me and Spencer.

"What do you think?" Spencer asked.

"You have an eye for design. I absolutely love it" Melissa smiled.

"Thank you" Spencer smiled.

I smiled softly at her and wrapped my arm around her shoulders, pulling her to my side.

"Honestly, when mom said you were converting the barn into a loft I couldn't see it, but it's beautiful! Job well done" Melissa smiled, nodding at the end.

Spencer smiled even wide then before, making me smile at her.

"See sis, I told you she'd love it" I smiled, kissing her temple.

She looked up at me and nodded before looking back at Melissa.

"Well, I'm glad you like it" Spencer said.

"And I totally appreciate you letting us move in" Melissa smiled.

This made mine and Spencer's smile disappear. Well shit, I already know what's about to happen.

"What?" Spencer asked in confusion.

"Wren and I are staying in the barn while we redo my place in the city" Melissa said.

I closed my eyes and muttered a small 'damn' under my breath and slowly removed my arm from Spencer's shoulders.

Spencer look at her in shock and disbelief and shook her head.

"No, I'm moving in for junior year, Melissa. That's the deal I made with mom and dad. I got the grades, i did the internship. I gave up my summer because I wanted this" Spencer said, slowly getting angry.

"Well, you'll just have to wait" Melissa shrugged.

I quickly stepped in, not wanting them to fight already.

"Why can't you stay in her room? Or better yet mine? I don't mind sleeping on the couch" I suggested.

Spencer nodded, while Melissa let out a small chuckle and shook her head.

"Ethan, little bro, I appreciate the offer. But me and Wren are a couple now, we need our own space and mom and dad agree" Melissa said.

I opened my mouth to say something, but closed it when I saw Melissa's fiance walked out of the barn.

"But they promised me" Spencer said, nothing but anger and sadness shown in her eyes.

Wren walked over to us, standing next to Melissa.

"Is everything okay?" Wren asked.

Honestly, not really.

He looked at me and Spencer and smiled, extending his hand.

"I'm Wren" Wren said.

Spencer ignored him. While I smiled at him and shook his hand, not wanting to be rude.

"Nice to meet you. I'm Ethan, this is my twin sister Spencer" I said, pointing to Spencer.

"Oh I know. You're the little brother Melissa always talks about" Wren smiled.

I blushed a little and turned to Melissa, giving her a small smile. She giggled and smiled back at me before walking closer to Wren.

Spencer looks at her and Wren before giving them both a sarcastic smile.

"Well you know what they say about hope, breeds eternal misery" Spencer bitterly said.

"Spence" I sighed but she ignored me.

She turned around and stomped away to head back inside the house. I sighed and rubbed my temples.

Wren frowned and looked at the both of us.

"Sounds like she was counting on moving into the barn" Wren said.

"Don't worry about Spencer, she'll get over it" Melissa said, rubbing his arm

I doubt it.

I sighed and looked at both of them, giving them small smiles.

"Well you guys have fun. I've got homework to finish" I said.

Wren smiled and nodded, Melissa following his lead.

"If you need any help you know you can always come to me" Melissa said.

"I know" I smiled, nodding my head before turning around and walking away.

I sighed and shook my head, running my hand through my hair. I only hope that Spencer can try and get over this.

I really don't want any drama between her and Melissa.

At Night

While mom, dad and Melissa were preparing dinner I was outside with Spencer. Oh and Wren too.

Me and Spencer were sitting on arm chairs, Spencer was reading while I was wrapping up the last paragraph for one of my homework assignments.

Wren was out here with us, smoking a little before crushing the cigarette.

Me and Spencer look up at him, raising our eyebrows.

"Shouldn't you know better?" I asked.

"Yeah. I mean you are a med student right?" Spencer asked.

"You two are a bit of smart asses" Wren said with a slight smile and chuckle.

"What can I say? We're twins, it runs in our blood" I smirked.

Spencer rolled her eyes but let out a small chuckle, while Wren snorted and shook his head at me.

"A bit? Does my sister know you smoke?" Spencer asked.

"Does she have to know everything?" Wren asked.

Me and Spencer looked at each other before looking back at him and shrugging.

It was silent for a few seconds, before Wren let out a small sigh and looked at Spencer. I can see some guilt in his eyes.

"I'm sorry that we're moving into your loft, if you want me to say something" Wren softly said.

Spencer looked sad at the mention of her loft and I quickly spoke.

"It wouldn't make a difference. We both know how Melissa is" I said, making Spencer nod.

Spencer sighed before looking at Wren, a faint smile on her face.

"Thank you for being sorry. Your not like Melissa's usual boyfriend" Spencer said, making me nod.

"How am I unusual?" Wren asked.

Once I finished my homework I closed my notebook and got up from the chair, with Spencer closing her book she was reading.

"We're late for dinner" I said and Spencer nodded.

"Yeah. And to answer your question, I actually like you. That's what's unusual" Spencer said, smirking slightly at the end.

I chuckled, with Wren following my lead.

Spencer stood up and opened the door, walking inside with me and Wren following behind her.

The Next Day

School was shit, that's all I gotta say.

It's basically a daily routine for me everyday. Go to school with Spencer, get through all my classes, sit with Emily and Aria at lunch, get through the last class and go home.

It's honestly just so stressful because of all the work we're give, like damn are they trying to kill us or something.

It worse for me because I had to do a make up test for a test I failed a week before. Meaning that Spencer got to go home first.

Sighing, I made my way towards the house.

When I made it to the door, I took out my keys and began opening the door.

I heard footsteps and turned around to see Melissa walking, carrying a few bags in her hands.

"Hey Ethan, did you just get home?" Melissa asked.

"Yeah, I had to do a make up test before leaving. Spencer left first and here we are" I said, chuckling at the end.

Melissa giggled and nodded.

I quickly opened the door and took the key out, putting it in my pocket, before taking a few bags from my sister.

"Oh come on lil bro, I can hold them" Melissa pouted.

"What kind of brother would I be if I let my sister carry all these bags herself?" I asked.

"May I remind you that I'm older than you and Spencer" Melissa said, raising her eyebrow at me.

"Yes, but mom did raise me to be a gentleman" I shrugged.

Melissa giggled and nodded. I moved out of the way so she could enter, earning a smile and giggle before she walked inside.

I followed behind her, closing the door with my foot before following her from behind.

While we made our way to the kitchen, we could hear Wren talking to someone. I recognized the voice as Spencer.

I furrowed my eyebrows in confusion and looked at Melissa, who had the same look as me.

"Do you hear that?" I asked.

"Yeah, it's Wren, but I don't know who he's talking to" Melissa said

We both continued walking as we made our way into the kitchen.

When we got there we saw Wren there, shirtless while wearing swim shorts and drinking soda.

"Hey" Wren smiled at me and Melissa.

"Hey" I nodded at him, putting the bags on the kitchen counter.

"Who were you talking to?" Melissa asked.

Wren looked around before looking back at her and shrugged.

"No one" Wren said.

Melissa smiled and nodded. She walked over to the counter to unload a few bags. Wren walked behind her and started kissing her cheek, making her giggle.

While they were busy, I narrowed my eyes at Wren, clearly suspicious.

"You lovebirds have fun, I've got homework to do" I said.

Not taking their eyes off of each other, they nodded, and I quickly left the kitchen to head upstairs to my room.

Something was going on and I have a slight idea as to what it is.

While I made it upstairs, I was walking towards my room, just when I was about to open the door my phone dinged.

Sighing, I took my phone out of my pocket, but furrowed my eyebrows in confusion when I saw I got a text from an unknown number.

Confused and curious, I opened it to see what the text said.

Watch out for your twin, Ethan. Better make sure she doesn't try to steal your sisters boyfriend like she always does

- A

My eyes widen in shock. I looked around the hallway before looking back down at my phone.

"Alison?" I muttered under my breath.

Late At Night

After I finished my homework and ate dinner, I left the house to meet up with Emily and Aria at Aria's house.

Emily texted me telling me that she needed to tell us something. It sounded urgent.

So, me being the protective best friend I am, quickly messaged her that I would go.

If any of my best friends are in danger, I'll always be there for them and help them no matter what.

So, that's where I am right now.

The three of us were sitting on the swing chair that was under the flight of steps of Aria's house, with me sitting in between the both of them.

"I'm sorry for just stopping by. And I'm sorry for messaging you to come, Ethan" Emily said apologetically.

"No. Anytime, Em. Come on, you know that. You too, Ethan" Aria smiled.

"I know" I smiled, leaning in and giving her a brotherly kiss on the forehead.

It was silent, literally silent. It was a bit uncomfortable but none of us knew what to say. Until Emily broke it. Thank the lords.

"Somebody left a note in my locker" Emily said.

This made me, and surprisingly Aria, look at her in shock.

"From A?" I asked.

"You too?" Emily asked and I nodded.

"Aria, you too?" Emily asked and Aria nodded.

"Do you really think it's her? Is it possible?" Aria asked.

"Only alison could have known" Emily sighed, shaking her head.

Aria looked at her in confusion, but I already knew what she was talking about.

I was never afraid of Alison, unlike the other girls who were. And since I never really had any secrets of my own to hide, Alison would tell me hers.

Of course she wouldn't tell me everything, just a few. Even if I was her favorite, she would never tell me everything and I always wondered why, but I never pushed it.

And one of her secrets involved her and Emily.

"What? Known -- known what?" Aria asked.

"It was-" Emily started, but I cut her off.

"Personal?" I asked.

Wouldn't call it personal since I know, but I don't want to put any pressure of discomfort on my best friend.

Emily gave me a small smile and nodded before sighing.

"I really believed she was dead" Emily said.

"Yeah. Yeah, we all did" Aria said and I nodded.

"Could she really be back?" I asked, not really knowing what to believe or not believe anymore.

"I think she's playing with us" Aria shrugged.

"Why would she do that?" Emily asked, making me scoff.

"It's Alison that we're talking about here. I mean, wasn't that her favorite sport" I said, shrugging at the end.

This earned a slight giggle from Aria and a sigh from Emily.

"Should we tell someone?" Emily asked.

"I don't... I don't know about you, but... I can't" Aria said, shaking her head.

"I mean, as much as I want to I don't think we should. We can't be sure if this is Alison, for all we know this might be someone messing with us" I explained.

Aria nodded, agreeing with me, while Emily just sighed and nodded.

It went back to being silent, but only for a few seconds before Emily broke it.

"I'm glad you're back" Emily smiled.

"Yeah, me too. It wasn't the same without my other best friend here" I smiled, ruffling her hair and putting my arm around her shoulders.

Aria giggled at both of us and nodded, leaning into my touch for some comfort as she let out a small sigh.

"It's funny... I mean, even though I grew up here, I feel like a total outsider" Aria said.

"Me too" me and Emily nodded.

I sighed and wrapped my other arm around Emily's shoulders, bringing her to my side. She sighed and snuggled into my side.

I kept both of them close to me, and we just sat there. Holding onto each other just like old time. Something that the three of us needed.

A Few Minutes Later

Me and Emily left Aria's house, wanting nothing more than to just go home and get some rest. I need a nap.

After we said goodbye to Aria, me and Emily walked together. I didn't want Emily walking home by herself so I offered to walk with her.

Rosewood can be dangerous, especially at night. I know that Emily can take care of herself, but I don't want any creeps going up to her. Cause if they did, their noses would be broken.

While we were walking, an ambulance passed by us. Me and Emily looked at each other, clearly confused and walked faster to see where it was going.

We stopped and our eyes widen in shock and horror at what we were seeing. There were police cars everywhere, huddled around Alison's old house. So many people were watching, wanting to see what was going.

Without any hesitation, Emily grabbed my hand and dragged both of us towards the scene. We passed by a few people and cops to get some information about what was going on.

We passed by a few more people and cops and started heading towards the house. When we got there, a girl with curly black here ran towards us. I recognized her as Maya, the new girl, Emily's new friend. Emily told me about her last night.

"Emily!" Maya yelled.

"Maya!" Emily yelled.

Emily let go of my hand and ran towards her, once they were close they embraced each other in a tight hug.

I ran over to them and they pulled away from the hug.

"I thought something might have happened to you" Emily said.

"I tried to call you" Maya said.

"What's going on? Are you ok?" I asked, placing my hand on Emily's shoulder.

Maya looked at me, her eyes moving to look at where my hand was and I could see some anger and jealousy flashing through them, before it went away and she looked at me.

"You must be Emily's best friend, Ethan Hastings. Nice to meet you" Maya said.

"Nice to meet you too. Now can you please tell us what's going on?" I asked.

Maya bit her lip nervously, looking at the both of us before her eyes settled on Emily. I had a feeling there was something going on between them.

"They found your friend" Maya said, and I already knew she was talking about Alison.

Our eyes went wide as she said that. Joy and happiness was coursing through my body.

"I knew she was back. Is she inside?" Emily asked.

We both made a move to enter the house, but Maya grabbed both of our arms, stopping us.

"Emily! Ethan! I'm sorry. They found Alison's body" Maya softly said, her eyes showing nothing but sadness.

This made mine and Emily's eyes widen in shock and horror.

Alison's...Alison's dead?

Oh my freaking gosh. Alison's dead

Me and Emily turned around to see some medical people placing a body bag on top of the stretcher before wheeling it out.

As they wheeled it out, I felt Emily wrapping her arms around my body, wanting some comfort.

I hugged her back and held her tightly in my arms. Maya slowly walked over to both of us and embraced us in a tight hug.

I closed my eyes, allowing a few tears to escape my eyes and slid down my cheek.

A Few Days Later
At Rosewoods Church

This was something I never wanted to do. This was something that I never thought would be possible.

But it is. And as hard as it is, I've gotta accept the fact that Alison, my best friend, is dead and isn't coming back.

After much convincing from Spencer and my parents, I gathered enough courage to get changed into my black tuxedo and leave the house and into the car.

During the ride, me and Spencer sat in the back. I had my arm wrapped around her shoulder, keeping her close to my side as she held onto me like I was her lifeline. In a way, I was. I was her lifeline. Just like she was mine.

The entire ride to the church we were all silent. Mom and dad kept glancing at me and Spencer a few times, giving us sad looks. Me and Spencer did our best to ignore it, but it was hard.

Finally, when we arrived at the church we got out of the car and started walking to head inside.

But before we could, we spotted Emily with her mom.

They spotted us and Emily's mom, Pam, didn't hesitate to bring our mom into a hug.

Dad stood there, watching them, as Spencer and Emily hugged each other.

As they were hugging, I can see that their eyes were clenched tightly shut. And I knew that they were trying to stop themselves from crying.

Sighing, I walked over to them and wrapped my arms around them. I gave both their heads a kiss as we remained in each others embrace.

When we pulled away, we all entered the church, wanting to get this over with.

When we got inside, our parents all sat somewhere in the middle while me and the girls were requested to sit in the front. Courtesy of Mrs. Dilaurentis, Alison's mom.

I sat next to Spencer while Emily sat at her other side. Hanna came in with her mom a few minutes later. Her mom went to our parents while Hanna, of course, sat with us.

All that's left is Aria.

Hanna immediately snuggled into my side and on instinct I kissed her temple in a brotherly way, wrapping an arm around her shoulder.

"I can't believe she's really gone" Hanna whispered.

"Me neither buttercup. Me neither" I whispered back.

Another minute later, Aria walked inside and walked to where we were. We all looked at her, seeing that she was staring at the coffin and the picture of Alison that was next to it.

Hanna, being the close one to Aria, gently slid her hand into hers.

Aria snapped out of her trance and looked down at Hanna. Hanna gave her a soft smile and gestured for her to join us. Aria gave her a smile back and nodded.

We all scooted over to make more room for her as she sat down next to Hanna.

"Poor Ali" Emily sighed.

"Can you believe what a scene this is?" Hanna asked.

"Alison would have loved it" Aria said with a small sad smile.

"Popular in life and death" me and Spencer said.

I turned to look at Emily, only to see her frowning, her eyes filled with nothing but sadness. I know that besides me, Emily was taking this the hardest.

Sure, the other girls were Ali's best friends, we all were.

But I was closer to her. Emily, whether she's ready to admit it or not, loved Alison more than just a friend.

I turned to Hanna and nudged her arm. She looked at me and I nodded towards Emily. When she saw Emily's face, she realized what I was telling her and nodded.

She opened her purse and took out a phial of alcohol and handed it to Emily.

"No thanks. I don't--" Emily started, trying to decline, but I gently shook my head at her.

"Em. Today, I think you do" I gently said, causing Hanna to nod, agreeing with me.

Emily sighed and nodded, reluctantly taking the phial from Hanna and hid it somewhere so no adults would see.

We're in a church after all.

When we heard Aria's phone ding, we all slightly jumped, feeling nervous and anxious. Aria took her phone out and looked at it, relief washing over her.

"Anyone we know?" Hanna asked, quite nervously.

"No, it's just my mom sending me a text" Aria said with a small smile, closing her phone and putting it away.

Me, Aria and Emily looked at each other with knowing looks before looking at Hanna and Spencer. They were the same as us.

"Emily, Ethan and I aren't the only ones who got messages from A, are we?" Aria asked.

Hanna and Spencer nodded, making me release a slightly shaky breath.

I heard a noise and turned around, only for my eyes to widen in shock at who I saw enter the church. Someone I never expected to come.

Jenna Marshall.

"Oh, my god. It's Jenna" I whispered, that way only the girls would hear me.

This made the other girls turn around and their eyes widen in shock when they saw Jenna.

What the hell is she doing here?

Last time I checked, her and Alison were never friends. They freaking hated each other.

Mrs. Dilaurentis walked over to us and we scooted over to make more room for her. She sat down and looked at us.

"Did you see that Jenna Marshall was here? I didn't realize she and Ali were friends" Mrs. Dilaurentis said.

"They weren't" Spencer said and we all nodded.

We then kept silent when the minister walked into view, meaning that it was time to start.

"The lord giveth and the lord taketh away" the Minister said, holding his arms out.

A Few Hours Later

The funeral was over and we were all leaving the church, wanting to get home.

Me and the girls were together at all times, all of them huddled around me. Hanna's arm was linked with mine and Spencer had hers wrapped around my other arm.

While we were walking, wanting to go somewhere that wasn't here, a guy walked over to us.

"Emily, Spencer, Aria, Hanna and Ethan" the guy said.

We all stopped walking and turned to look at him. Me being me, I stood slightly in front of the girls.

"Do we know you?" I asked.

"I'm detective wilden. I understand you were all good friends with the victim" Detective Wilden said, showing us his badge.

"Yeah, we were" Aria nodded.

"I'm gonna need to talk to each one of you" Detective Wilden said.

The girls became more nervous and anxious and huddled closer towards me. Hanna and Spencer relinking their arms with mine.

"We talked to the police when Alison went missing" Spencer said and I nodded.

"And I intend to go over every one of your statements. This is no longer a missing persons investigation. It's a murder. Rest assured, I will find out what happened that summer" Detective Wilden explained.

He gave us one last nod before turning around and walking away.

"Weirdo" I muttered under my breath.

Hanna and Aria heard me and they released small giggles, making a faint smile appear on my face.

But that soon died down when we saw Jenna being lead to a black car. We all looked at each other, clearly still nervous and anxious.

"Do you think he knows about?" Aria asked, obviously talking about what happened with Jenna that night.

"No. How could he?" Hanna shrugged, but I can tell she was still nervous.

Unlike the girls, I wasn't apart of what happened that night with Jenna.

Considering that day I was told by Alison that it was a girls night only and I couldn't come.

I really didn't mind since I actually had made plans with Mike, Aria's little brother, that day. We planned to go to the arcade.

And right about now, I'm glad Alison told me not to come that day.

Then all of a sudden all our phones dinged. Taking one last glance at each other, we took our phones out and looked at it. When we saw who it was from, all our eyes widened in shock.

"Oh, my god!" Aria whisper yelled at us.

"It's from--" Hanna started but Emily cut her off.

"I got one too" Emily said.

"We all did" I nodded, not taking my eyes off my phone.

"I'm still here, bitches" Spencer read the message, her eyes glued to her phone the entire time, just like the rest of us.

"And I know everything, A" all five of us said.

That day we knew that everything was going to change. Nothing was ever going to be the same again.