xihaveaplanxx

[xihaveaplanxx]

40 Question Wrestling Survery 2024 Edition

FAVOURITE..:

1: Current male wrestler

We know this answer but since I was asked

2: Current female wrestler

My sunshine princess, Willow Nightingale ^_^

3: All time male wrestler

Bryan Danielson 100 percent

but I would be remiss to take Edge out when he also means a great deal to me

4: All time female wrestler

Victoria always and forever she was just that cool

5: Tag team

Nick and Matt of course

6: Match(es)

Honestly Swerve vs Adam the final match in their series was so brutal but so good. I also REALLY loved Bryan Danielson vs Swerve so much and Swerve vs Will Ospreay also one that I put up there is Adam vs Kenny when he won the title off him that was a good match with good story telling

7: Ring gear

no but when i tell you all three of these looks are some of their best looks like no notes these are perfect like im a simple person like this is perfect

8: Pay per view

Honestly most AEW ppvs except that last one because Tony was no longer on my side XD

9: Entrance theme

Swerve's Theme: Big Pressure (x)

10: Stable

The Elite in any version of it just the bad outfits just pretend you dont see them XD

11: Champion

Jack Perry to be honest he was interesting as champion despite what people were saying about it

12: Match type TLC or unsactioned matches where people are just otu there brawling. Anything that has little rules is fine with me.

THE BEST..: 13: Looking diva

Honestly, Willow is cutest thing in the world

But I'd be remiss to not include Mariah May, Rhea, Naomi, Bianca and Jade

14: Looking superstar

Do we really wanna go here???

But fine let me include the others too since we know who is number one XD

15: Technical wrestler

Bryan Danielson 100 percent

16: Gimmick

I really fucking loved Stardust and I don't care if it's just me

17: Championship design

The TNT Title but how it looked after Jack worked on it it was so fucking cool

18: Feud

19: Mic worker

Honestly Drew did so good this year and I'd be remiss to not put him here.

20: Slogan/tag line

21: Wrestling video game you have played

2k23 is alot of fun honestly even if i just play GM MODE

OTHER: 22: Worst entrance theme

i wont comment because thats being petty and its not even cuz the song is bad its just the person attached to it is trash

23: Worst gimmick

i kinda dont care for whatever FTR is doing yes i know they are good wrestlers but so are alot of people??

24: Which wrestler would you like to see make a return?

Honestly ive seen everyone i wanted to see live so im fine. AJ seems to have gone MIA though id like him to show up again one day???

25: Do you follow any independent promotions?

not really

26: One unpopular opinion of yours

This is unpopular even to me but Jericho's current gimmick where he shows up and waves to the crowd amuses me because i wave back xD

27: Who do you consider underrated?

I feel the young bucks do not get the credit they deserve. Like they are actually talented and it seems people shit on them all over online and i just dont get that shit

28: What about an over-rated wrestler?

its best we dont let me comment here

29: Someone who you think would be great with some ring improvement?

honestly i think everyone is doing their best there are no notes

30: You get to make your own stable. Who would it consist of? What is their name?

i dont even have to do that cuz aew took care of those dreams for me however if i could have a stable and its just like edge and bryan and adam id be happy just all three of my top guys and bring willow too because i love her. im not even sure what id name it. im like maybe perfection cuz its what it would be

but if i made a serious stable

it would probably be Jack Perry and Mox and Darby and Sting and it would be some kind of murder crow thing

i cant be trusted XD

31: Who would you like to be in a tag team with?

Willow ^_^

32: Who would you like to be in a mixed tag team with?

Kenny Omega and i dont wanna explain xD

33: Why do you love wrestling?

its dramatic like i am and was a great escape from shitty things going on

34: What/who first got you into wrestling?

one of my old friends did after i was bummed after a really intense break up from an even more intense relationship and it stuck ever since

35: Raw, Smackdown or NXT?

None, AEW Dynamite tbh

36: Were you devastated when Alberto Del Rio hit Santa with his car in 2012?

im pretty sure i laughed

37: If you were on the original NXT who would you choose as your pro? ive given this thought and i feel id personally pick jericho because he talks as much as i do

38: Have you ever considered becoming a professional wrestler?

no im clumsy af

39: What is your best wrestling related memory?

somewhere between meeting adam cole and meeting jack perry and hugging him and contemplating taking him home and seeing adam win a title but also seeing jack get his title but also seeing bryan retain his like these are all things that matter to me

40: Do you watch wrestling by yourself or with others?

on my own though on ppvs i text vinny during shows so its like we are watching together xD

[xihaveaplanxx]

Kingdom (Part One)

“Your mother is wrong.”

“No she isn’t. You just don’t understand. She is working very hard to help well....people like you.”

“People like me? You mean poor people? People that have to actually work in her fucked up kingdom to make ends meet but she keeps trying to enact laws to fuck us over. Oh yeah, she’s doing so well for people like me.”

“I didn’t mean to be offensive.” Jack looked away from his friend. “She is just..stressed.”

“Isn’t she always?”

“Lately..yes.” He admitted. His mother was the Queen of the realm and normally, he felt she was pretty calm but recently his father tried to come back into her life and it just led to nothing but drama. They were always at odds and arguing.  He also wanted to take him back with him and it just pissed her off. He took the time they were aruging to sneak out and see Daniel his friend...he swore his just friend but he did have a crush on him. He did. He liked him alot actually but he knew his mother would never EVER approve of him. She was very protective over him and that was putting it lightly. He had other brothers, AJ, who was the oldest and one who was elevated to their mothers council. Then there was Bryan who rejected being in the royal family and lived on the outside of the town with his wife and his farm. Then there was him. Jack. The youngest. The baby. She was so protective of him, in almost a way that was borderline crazy. She babied him beyond reason. Gave him all he wanted no matter what. He was spoiled but...his aunt kept him level headed. She was the only person that ever spoke to him the way she did and in a way, he was thankful. It kept him grounded. Somewhat. Somnetimes he misspoke like he did earlier and he felt so bad for it. He tried to see everyones sides but at the end of the day, his mother was his mother and he felt she did what she could to keep him safe...at least she was trying to.  “My father came back and it’s been alot. He wants to take me to live with him because he feels she can’t balance leading the realm and raising me but my older brother is there to help, not that I see AJ often since he’s usually out on diplomatic missions but my aunt is there and her husband...I’m fine there. I don’t want to leave my mother. I fear how she’d be if he actually gained custody of me.”

“Maybe she’d make better choices. What kind of acts has she been signing? Does she even read the things people show her?”

“She does...she’s just..stressed. I can talk to her. She usually listens to me.”

“Sure she will.”

“I’m sorry things have gotten bad for you and the others... really.” Jack didn’t know what else to say. He didn’t realy know how the others were living so he had to trust Daniel was telling the truth, but why would he lie?  He felt that he was only bothering by being near him. “I..I’m going to go.”

“No..wait.” Daniel pulled his arm. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t blame you for your mothers issues. If you could talk to her, I think myself and the people lower on the totem pole would be grateful.”

“I’ll try.” He told him. “I can’t be out too late. She’ll start looking for me.”

“Does she know you went out?”

“My aunt knows I went out. She said she’d cover but I can’t leave that on her.”

“Your mom doesn’t know you are out?”

“No. She’s been even more hovery lately since my father is around and she’s scared he’ll kidnap me and disappear. I don’t think he’d do that. He knows how she can be. Stil. My mother is not the most rational.”

“No, she is not. Her one ex dumped her and she set a whole town on fire. People died, Jack. Good men and women died because she was in a mood. People claim she’s better but...is she?”

“She’s trying.” Jack clenched his fist. His mom may not be perfect but she was still his mom and he loved her and he was not goign to take anyone talking poorly about her, not even his crush. Especially not his crush. She always taught him it’s family first and he believed that.  He’d not let him talk about her like that. “She is doing her best. I’m sorry that you and the others can’t see it and I’ll try to talk to her but I can’t promise things will just get better.”

“Of course not, because her moods out weigh things. Guess I should be lucky she didn’t launch to kill all of us struggling people.”

“She’d never do that.”

“Whatever you say.”

“You know what, I’m going to just go. I don’t think I’m going to even talk to her. Maybe I’ll tell her to start picking you off one by one.”

“Ah, you have her temper.” Daniel noted. “Just like her when pressured about things. I always thought you were better than that. Then again, you are the prince of her empire of blood and bodies, why would you be different”

“Fuck you.”

“You wish I would.” He smirked at him. “But your mother would rather die than her son be with some dirty street kid wouldn’t she?”

“Daniel...”

“She should prepare then because I know how you look at me, even now. You aren’t fully mad at me.”

“I.....”

“Jack, you’ll surely break her heart by falling for me.” He reached out and softly caressed Jack’s face making him turn bright red. “But...maybe she shouldn’t worry too much. You’d surely break my heart before you broke hers.”

+++++++++++++++++++

“Has she asked for where I was?”

“She’s not even left her quarters.” My aunt told me. “Was your little visit with your friend good?”

“I don’t know.” I sat down acrossf rom her. “I just...I don’t know what I feel for him and I know mom won’t like him. If she found out, she’d probably get him strung up or send Adam after him.” I shuddered at the thought. Adam was crazy and that was putting it nicely. He worked very closely for my mother and did whatever she asked. Were they together? I wwas never sure. I just know if she said to jump he’d ask how high and if she said kill he’d ask when, where, how and which weapon she’d prefer he use. He was not a man to be triffled with.  He was one of the few people that been around her that I was truly scared of. He’d never hurt me....but still.  “I just..he’s very upset with her recent laws she signed and I want to talk to her but you know how she is.”

“She wouldn’t be upset with you. You are her most precious.”

“I know but I don’t want to disappoint her either. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like living with my dad but she hates him...most days.”

“Most days?”

“They were cuddling yesterday. I was going to tell her good night last night and they were on the couch and he was protectively holding her and resting his chin in her hair as they watched tv. Maybe they’ll get back together?”

“I’d never though that was an option with them.”

“Me neither. Ideally I want them together. I just want her happy. She’s never happy it seems.”

“She’s stressed.”

“I know.” I sighed. “But thank you for covering for me, well agreeing to. I don’t want to ever put you in danger but...I can’t flat out tell her I’m visiting Daniel...more like arguing with him. It got heated and then it didn’t and I don’t know if that’s how you are supposed to feel but then again my parents are like that. They hate each other. Then they don’t.”

“That’s not normal.”

“I know. I’ve read enough books to know it’s not but it works for them. Well didn’t, they aren’t together..still.”

“I think if anything, you should not model your parents.”

“We can be like you and Damian. He’s so sweet to you and he’s strong and he’s handsome....like Daniel just not as tall.”

“Aw, you really like him don’t you?”

“Is it obvious”

“It is.” She smiled at me. “Does he like you back?”

“It’s complicated. Very much. I don’t think it’s me he dislikes, it’s my mom and I just...she’s my mother. She is mosti important. If she told me not to see him...I wouldn’t...I’d try not to break her rules but she wants to pick a man for me. She’s told me this many times, she’d find me someone perfect and I.....Daniel is perfect......but...”

“I’m sorry, Jack.”

“Please don’t tell her any of this.”

“I won’t. Your secret is safe with me.”

“Thank you, Aunt Jenny. I appreciate that.” I hugged her tightly. “Do you mind if I stay for dinner?”

“Of course not. Damian is cooking tonight.”

“Is he? I’m excited. I love his cooking.”

“I know you do and if I call him now before he gets home, he’ll pick up those cakes you like.”

“You don’t need to do nothing special for me....really.”

“It’s alright, I want to. Maybe he can also give you advice as well.”

“I’d appreciate that.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

Tell Me What You Think About Your Situation (Short Story)

“I’m admittedly a bit scared to go up to her. Drew was very nice about things but....you know how she is.” Damian told me as we were packing up to leave the arena. Night two of Wrestlemania...surely was something. Damian was champion now and we were both so happy but the matter of how things went....it was a lot. Yes, things were talked about before, agreed too but I know Dreama and Drew were definitely not a fan of it, Dreama even more so. Drew had texted me earlier telling me she tore up the dressing room, and was trying to attack everyone. I’m not surprised. 

Somehow her ex seemed to schmooze his way into things as usual. It seemed every time she was okay, he’d show up and fuck it up. I almost felt he loved tormenting her. He drove a wedge between her and so many people and just kept on going. 

I remember when Damian came to me to tell me what the plan was. We both had reservations about it. We wanted Damian to win, after all, he’d waited so long but the matter...the involvement. Drew even spoke to us about it because he didn’t want to tell Dreama. He knew that if he did she’d find Punk earlier and attack him. He’d have not even made it to the announce table.  

Last time I checked, Drew took her to the hotel and who knows how that went. She’s probably burning it down or something. Drew could take her though, it’s the only reason I wasn’t worried. Sure she was a powerful vampire but he was an even more powerful werewolf. By natural law, they should detest each other but they don’t. He dotes on her and she clings to him even if sometimes they get into a little...a lot of things together. They even took in Nathan, this younger vampire she met from nxt. She loved him and treated him like he was their child. He tended to be with them when NXT tapings were done. He’d travel with them.  They were actually a very cute unit. Maybe Drew called Nathan to talk to her. He did soothe her but after tonight, I don’t know how much soothing would hold.

“Oh, Drew texted me.” Damian showed me his phone. “He sent a photo. Dreama is fast asleep.”

“I don’t want to ask how that happened.”

“I bet I know how judging by the claw marks on his arm, it was a time. I mean they say don’t put your dick in crazy but some dudes thrive on that, even if it means getting bitten, clawed and what not.”

“Damian!”

“Listen, if it calmed her?!”

“Oh Damian.” I shook my head. “Speaking of....I do believe...we have some celebrating to do ourselves. After all, my man is the champion.”

“Jenny, Jenny...” He shook his head at me, a smirk gracing his lips. “You read my mind. I think the others will understand though Rhea was betting we’d not even make it to the hotel.”

“....Who said she would be wrong?”

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

I couldn’t sleep but Dreama was fast asleep, thank goodness. Shit went south in this hotel room. Completely so. My body was throbbing. From the pay per view, from what we did here. It was a lot. I had so many emotions. I was so happy for Damian. He was my friend. I didn’t even mind losing it to him in that way, it's just....that one little piece. One little fucking piece. That didn’t even need to be there but of course, his existence breeds numbers so he got in Trips ear. I saw how he smirked at me. He was reveling in it. That he could do this but it wasn’t even just me he was amused doing this to, it was to Dreama and that’s what bothered me. For someone who claimed he didn’t care for her he made sure he was always in her business. He loved making her suffer I swear and I hated it. We were all sworn by Trips to not use our powers on other talents on each other but I know Dreama wanted to bite him, fight him, she wanted to challenge him to a duel, blind side him and take his throat out. I could sense her rage. But also she flat out said it so that too.  It was going to be a long couple months and I wanted to hope she’d mellow out but with him around.... I know how hard it is for her. I contemplated leaving her with Nathan in Florida but I knew if she was around him too much...I’d come back and he’d start dressing like her. He’d be like AJ but worse. That was a risk we didn’t need to take , but .... still. It would be better than leaving her backstage, letting her run into Punk and her attacking him unprovoked. 

In my mind I just think of how happy I was with the title, in front of a crowd. I was so happy. I soaked it in. I played my part....I agreed to break my own heart but it’s for the greater good right? It would pay off? I told myself that. I told myself. I had to believe that Trips had our best interest at heart...that he was trying.

I just...

Could’t sleep.

I would get up but Dreama slept very lightly and I don’t think I had it in me to go another round with her. Not remotely. I just lied in the bed and pulled the blanket over us. We could deal with things in the morning. Maybe just maybe it wouldn’t be too bad to rest.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

“IN THE CAR. THE RENTAL. JENNY YOU ARE WILD MY FRIEND. DOM DOM OWES ME 50 BUCKS! HAHA I WAS RIGHT!”

“Rhea my God you are letting the entire bar know?!”

“And why not? My best friend won the title and his awesome girlfriend GAVE HIM AN EVEN BETTER THING THAN THE TITLE in the rental car. Oh Jenny, I had no idea my wholesome alien buddy could be so naughty. I’m rubbing off on you.” She chuckled. “And I’m proud.”

“Listen...”

“I bet people in the parking lot sure were listening.”

“Rhea!”

“It’s true.” She laughed. “I’m glad seriously you guys are having a good night. I tried to call Dreama to check on her but Drew answered. He said she was fast asleep, which surprised me. He sounds so tired. I feel bad for him.”

“Yeah, he’s having a time. I hope he will be okay, honestly.”

“So do I. We should take them both out with us when we go to the arcade tomorrow. Dreama likes claw machines and Drew could do with being out. I mean unless you and Damian wanna sneak around and get freaky in the photobooths!”

“Rhea!:

“It’s possible.” She laughed. “Just try not to lean on the photo button. That can get risky.”

“You sound like you have experience.”

“I’m deciding to plead the fifth one because I just know that one time I had to get a little intense to get some photos back.”

“Jesus...”

“If he was there, I’m sure what happened in that booth would not have happened.”

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

“Damian, can I talk to you?” I was bracing for who knows what right now. We went to the arcade and Drew was having a meltdown at one of the ticket machines while Rhea and Jenny were trying to keep him from getting us all arrested. Dreama pulled me to the side by one of the other claw machines. She didn’t seem as pissy or maybe it was the giant stuffed cat in her arms, I wasn’t sure. “I...didn’t get to congratulate you last night so...congrats...Damian.”

“I know you are mad...”

“It’s not you I’m mad at. Really you did deserve this, it's just....”

“No...I understand...”

“I feel so bad I didn’t congratulate you. I mean you were doing as it was planned I just...”

“I know.” I frowned. “But thank you. I thought you hated me.”

“Nah, you make my best friend happy and also you were just doing what was planned. I couldn’t hate you. I mean unless you stopped making Jenny happy, then I’d hate you and probably destroy you and everything you hold dear.”

“That’s...I am glad she has such a caring friend at the same time....”

“She’s been through alot. Trust me before you came along. We had a slight fight because when she was in school I might have killed two of her classmates.”

“Huh?”

“Yeah. People were mean to her and she came to me crying...I just...I really care for her and you have been so great to her, so caring and sweet. Just never hurt her, okay...please...like forget the title and bullshit...just....please...you and I will never have beef so long as you are good to her.”

“You have my word.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

As I Confessed (Part One)

“He is your boyfriend. You need to talk to him.”

“I....”

“He’s going to get all of us hunted. What he did out there? He knows better. I don’t know what’s wrong with him but you need to talk to him.” Damian was ranting at me and I had no idea how to respond. Adam had his match which was fine till he actually drank from Swerve. In front of everyone. In front of humans He could easily say it was part of the match which it was Texas Death but this...what happened. How for a split moment, the bloodlust took him over. That was not good. Swerve was being tended too and Adam was in the locker room being reprimanded by the other vampires around. Especially Mox who was in charge of the vampires in this coven. I could hear the screaming from outside in the hall and I felt awful. I didn’t know what to do. I just didn’t want this brought to the hire ups but he did it on a ppv. We couldn’t possibly mind wipe ALL THOSE people and nowadays, clips get cut as soon as they happen. Everyone would know. We could hope people just thought it was part of the match...going further than before but others...others won’t believe that. Will dig and dig and find out secrets and we’d be in danger. I was concerned and Damian yelling at me didn’t help. If he wasn’t dating my best friend I’d have smacked him. Not that I could reach his face, he was much taller than me. I’d smack his chest if I’m lucky. But at least I’d do something! “Are you listening to me? Of course not. When it comes to him you will just plead and cry and tell everyone it’s not his fault but there he was drinking someone’s blood on tv. People are going to piece shit together and then what”

“Damian...I....”

“He’s been really irresponsible lately.”

“You  really have been such a hard ass since you got voted as second in command you know.”

“Yeah well maybe your boyfriend shouldn’t be potentially putting us all in danger. Mox is laying into him and he should be. Should choke his dumb ass out. Not that it would matter. Put the fear of all the Gods in him. I’m sure Mox can do damage control and Swerve doesn’t seem too bothered though he’s really tired which I get but still.... “

“I’m sure he didn’t mean to do all that.”

“But he did.” Damian crossed his arms and Mox soon left the locker room with Adam trailing behind him, head hung low. “What’s the verdict, Mox?”

“Dreama, talk to me.” He ignored Damian and Adam was standing there head low just facing a wall. I didn’t like that. I followed him and he slammed the door before turning to me. “When was the last time Adam had any blood? Be honest with me. He clearly didn’t want to tell me the truth, but you will.”

“He....”

“The truth. I know you love feral men and him being beyond feral what with how intense this feud is and what not  You are known to make whoever you are with abstain from drinking so they go out there and just react poorly. Violently...he was thirsty. Deprived.”

“It’s...it’s not what you think.”

“Oh? Then what is it?”

“I just....”

“Dreama...we went over this with everyone you get with. Do you really want him to end up like Punk?”

“He wouldn’t”

“No? He wouldn’t? Are you sure about that?”

“Adam could never be so pathetic and useless. Yes, it’s bad he drank from Swerve as he did but he’d never ever be the embarrassment that Punk is to our kind. They aren’t remotely the same. Yes Adam’s a bit more feral lately but he’s going through alot.”

“And because you are you, you want him to ose it because you think it’s cute. You did that to Punk then oh what was that....he left you for your friend.”

“Mox, I swear...I will stake you.”

“Threatening to murder a superior, I’m sure Sting would love to hear about that.”

“You are being an asshole.”

“No, you are mad I’m right. I’m getting damage control done so no one thinks anything of it , that it was just part of the match but we can not keep doing this. I should kick you both out the coven but he needs it. You though. He needs to be protected from you. He was such a nice vampire then he got with you and now he’s agreeing to not drink blood so he comes at people ravenous, getting increasingly more violent, getting darker in demeanor.  I know he won’t do it, he loves you so much but I will. From this moment forward you are not only banned from the coven, you are not together. He can’t be with you when you are like this. You need to go home. I don’t care where you go, you can’t be here. After all this. He feels so bad for what happened in hindsight but not you, I know you don’t.”

“You can’t do this.”

“I just did. Get your stuff and go somewhere.  I’d think you’d be better as you got older but sometimes I forget deep down, you just lust for control and power so much it’s just ridiculous. I thought you’d be better to Adam. Good to him but no...I was wrong. We all were.”

“Mox...dude....”

“No. You need to leave. Maybe one day we will let you back in...but not any time soon.”

++++++++++++++++++++++

A month later/Kenny’s pov

“I don’t even understand. I just...I thought Adam would at least reach out. Mox can’t control him texting or anything. Whatever. It’s fine. I don’t care.”

“I think you do care.”

“I don’t.”  I could tell Dreama was upset. She had been in my apartment for the past month as she refused to go back home. She moved in with me and I didn’t mind it. I wasn’t on the road for some time and I was a bit lonely. Especially after things transpired between Matt and I that resulted in a lot of heartbreak, crying and just....that and me getting sick as I was. Everything was just snowballing and I was hiding away at this point. Dreama barely went out to drink anymore, she usually drank from me. As a mage, my blood was somewhat of a delicacy but also with how sick I been, I didn’t know if she should be indulging in it but she did. It didn’t bother her really. I thought it did when she seemed to abruptly stop but she told me that wasn’t the case.  She was pissed again and from what she told me...I kind of understood all sides. She kind of made him go feral but also...him not even trying to reach out to her was kind of sad. Especially since I followed him on everything and he was just fine...hanging out with my ex and his brother and just....not checking on her....or me....felt bad. I guess Matt told him he might as well just not talk to me since we weren’t a thing anymore but Adam was one of my best friends but I guess breakups change things.  At least he didn’t block me. There was that. Unlike Matt who blocked me on everything. Blocked my number, twitter, instagram, everything.  

“Do you want me to message him for you?”

“No.” She sighed. “You think he moved on. Maybe he found someone better. I guess. A nicer vampire. Whatever. Maybe I’m as bad as Mox says. I’m the problem. Just as bad as my ex...maybe worse.”

“Hey now, don’t compare yourself to him.”

“I can’t help it. I’m the problem. Always.”

“I think you are used to being how you usually are. It’s a lot to unlearn. I know you love Adam, I can tell but...a lot went on there. I frankly don’t think you were ready to be with anyone, but you liked him so much. You wanted things to work and it did for a while but as time went on you fell into old things. I’d like to think things aren’t over for you two forever. If he hasn’t got into contact with you, Mox probably is not letting him knowing how he’d run to find you and want to be with you. You need time. At least you have that. Matt and I are screwed. Things were said and just....we can’t fix it.” I frowned. “And I tried. I did. It hurt that I went to the hospital and he wasn’t there. You were. With a balloon for me and a bear that you ended up keeping but still.” I chuckled a tiny bit as I thought of how she presented me this cute black bear but she kept playing with it in the room. I let her keep it. It seemed she wanted it and the last thing I needed was another plush but the balloon I kept. Even if it lost its air, I tacked it to my wall because it meant alot to me. 

“Do you really mean that?”

“I do.” I patted her arm. “We can play Street Fighter if you want. I’ll even let you win.”

“You won’t let me win. I’ll actually beat you.”

“You say that alot...but you never do.”

“I will this time.”

“Alright, if you say so.”

++++++++++++++++++++++

Jenny’s pov

“I miss her.” Adam pouted at me. It had been a month and the blood drinking incident was pretty much forgotten. Girls were much more into it than we thought but eh...girls did like those things. Adam was flat out miserable. He wanted to talk to Dreama so badly but he was barred from it. Mox even deleted her information from his phone. I understood it in a way but also he was not okay. “I really do.”

“I know but you know...”

“I know.” He sighed.  “Do you think she hates me?” He asked as he leaned his head on my shoulder. Dreama did text me from time to time. She spent all her time with Kenny which...I didn’t know how to feel about that.  She always had an interest in him , and it made me wonder. After all they were both single at the moment but still. She sent me some photos mostly of her and Kenny or just of Kenny sleeping and her drawing on him. She did mention missing Adam alot at first but now...it seemed she just was coming to terms with what was going on even if it bothered her. “Does she even mention me? I know you talk”

“She does. She does miss you.”

“I never blamed her for what went on. I could have told her no but I wondered myself how long I could last with no blood and what happened with Swerve was both our fault admittedly. I don’t think she’s anything like her ex. Hell her ex was a piece of shit to me. He was horrible to me and she doesn’t treat me like him remotely.  She....I just maybe we went out too quickly. Kenny used to tell me he felt we rushed into things but I adore her....I miss her. Do you think one day we can fix things...will Mox even let it. I know he  brought what happened to Sting and you know...he’s one of the big dogs in our coven. He wasn’t happy and he hated that she had to leave like that but he said she was an issue since TNA. I just...want us to be together again.”

“Aw...well if she is actually working on herself...I’m sure you will be back together. After all you are her sweetieface as she always told me.”

“I always loved that nickname.” He smiled a tiny bit. “Jenny, I always wondered. Since you are an alien? Does your blood...make Damian sick? I know some aliens..it depends.”

“I’m also part fairy.” I added “But no. It doesn’t. The fairy mix in it is very...good, he tells me. He tries not to feed from me often though. As he is taller and more imposing than normal vampires, he worries that he hurts me but he doesn’t.”

“Wow. Damian is kind of scary.”

“I can see how you say that but he’s a big mush ball. At least for me. He just takes his job as second in command seriously and protecting the others. I get it.”

“I guess...I just....I’m sorry I’m not fun to talk to right now. I just....I’m sad.”

“It;s going to be okay.” I patted his head. “If you just want to sit and watch something...that’s fine too. Or just lean on me. I’m here for you.”

“You know, you are such a good friend.” Adam told me. “Thank you for being there.”

“You don’t need to thank me.” I told him. “You are my friend...I’m going to care for you.”

“Well...I’m just glad you are here.”

“Of course.” I told him as he leaned on me and pulled out his phone. Dejected that there was no text or notification from Dreama. “It’s going to be okay, Adam.”

“I hope so because right now...it doesn’t feel like it ever will be.”

“

[xihaveaplanxx]

Crisis Averted (Short Story)

“I can not find him. Fuck. I left Target and...shit.shit shit shit.”

“Did you leave your son at Target?”

“Kenny, please you gotta help me find him.”

“I...”

“Kenny, please.” 

“I am busy.”

“Yeah and my kid can be missing and sold to some crazy people for parts. We need to leave.” I didn’t even have time to hesitate, to even think. Next thing you know I had a helmet pressed to my chest and was on the back of my ex’s motorcycle. She was speeding and I was admittedly terrified. Hanging onto her for dear life. I felt we got to Target in ten minutes and the place was an hour away. You figure out the math. We got off and ran inside just to be faced with her ex husband and there was her son, in his arms. More like he was trying to climb out and smack his friend, Claudio but still. He was there and at least safe.  “Oh, Jack! He’s safe.” She walked up to her ex and her son reached out to her and she took him.  “I was so worried.”

“You were worried?” Mox started. “I found him among the clothing racks. How could you be this irresponsible and Kenny is here. I thought you dumped him because you couldn’t commit to him and yet here he is.”

“He came to help me find him.”

“You really needed to bring Kenny to help you locate YOUR kid. I can not believe you. Imagine if Claudio and I weren’t here today..then what? He’d be kidnapped or some shit. I doubt he’d be in danger, he is like you, he might be young but I don’t put it past him to toss a fork into someone's throat and start running.”

“He’d get that from you wouldn’t he?” She glared at him.

“At least he’d be able to protect himself.”

“Whatever. Thanks for finding him.”

“You could be responsible.” Mox crossed his arms. “If you care so much. How could you leave him behind?”

“It was an accident.”

“A costly one if I didn’t find him.” He sighed. “I wish you were more responsible. I know you hate being tied down. You wanna do whatever you want. I get it but damn it...for Jack...can you please be somewhat decent. Not for me, not for the guys you leave fucked and ignored along the way like Kenny...but for Jack...our son...be better.”

“Hey I...” I wanted to defend myself. I didn’t need to be dragged into that statement at all.

“Shut up useless fuck number one I’m not talking to you.” I could tell Mox was not in the mood so I was just going to not...say anything. He was clearly running on the fear something could have happened to their child and I get that. He wasn’t wrong..she wasn’t the most responsible and with him around, with him in her custody...she should be better and not leave him places or let him run wild and bite people at Subway or throw rocks at the guy at Mcdonalds for not giving him an extra toy. Yeah she had a lot to work on. “Anyway. Just be better for Jack. I know he is your world and it’s why I told the judge I’d not fight you for custody but shit like this makes me want to keep him.”

“I....”

“I’d never take him from you unless necessary. Just...don’t make it necessary.” Mox smiled at her a tiny bit and kissed her forehead. I didn’t think I’d ever see him do that to her ever seeing as it seemed they couldn’t stand each other. “So be better.”

“I will. Uh...thanks for finding him.” She told him. “Really..”

“Don’t mention it. Also might wanna run soon. He kind of...peed in the racks. I know you arent’ fitting to fight with managers here today and I am definitely in no mood to try and pull you off of them if they start.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

Secrets I Have Held In My Heart Are Harder To Hide Than I Thought (Short Story)

Walking to the hotel room was tough. Matt kept trying to run away at each turn. I had to drag him out the elevator. He had his hair tied back to stop himself from brushing it in stress. We got to the door and he gave me the keycard, trying to keep himself from falling apart outside the door. I put it against the door and there was Kenny sitting on the bed with Kota lying across him. I could feel the air grow so sad. I knew Matt was hurting seeing this. 

“Hey Matt! Hey Jenny!” Kenny waved over to us. “You are just in time for movie night. Since we have some time before we need to travel again, I felt we’d get some room service and watch movies.”

“Oh, I’d not want to intrude.” I told him as Matt was clinging to me, his head down. He didn't want Kenny to see him so upset. “Actually...there is something we...Matt needs to tell you.” I told him and Matt clung to me even tighter. “Matt...”

“Jenny...I can’t.” He told me softly, his voice catching in his throat a bit. I could tell in the shakiness of his voice, he was ready to start crying. How he was holding onto my arm was much more of wanting support but needing someone to hold him, to support him as his heart was breaking. “Please. Let’s go.” He said slowly, I could barely make it out. “Please, I am begging.”

“Matt...”

“No..Jenny please.” He was pleading for me and I was going to take him with me to leave when Kenny had gotten up and stood in front of me. He looked over me . I could tell he was looking at Matt, noting how he was shaking as he clung. 

“Matt.. what’s the matter?” Kenny asked, noting his husband was clearly upset. “Matt...you can talk to me.”

“No I can’t.” Matt told him, snapping at him almost. 

“What do you mean? Of course you can, you are my husband.”

“Oh? Am I? Or are you trying to replace me?” He told him. “Clearly, you are having so much fun with Kota here. Why bother stringing me along. I know he’s who you always wanted to be with. I know you love him more than anything...more than me...I know that...I accept it.” Matt said as I saw him playing with his hand. He was fidgeting with the ring on his finger and slipped it off. “You have him now...why don’t you just ask him to be your husband. I know it’s what you always wanted.” He held the ring up and Kenny shook his head at him, not wanting to take it from him. “Take it, Kenny.”

“No...Matt...we need to talk. Come with me.”

“Why? You don’t want anyone to see you break my heart....”

“I’m not going to break your heart. I love you, you know this.”

“But I’ll never be Kota though. Sweet, kind, thoughtful. He never forgot your birthday unlike me that one time....he’s perfect.”

“Matt, if you want to do this right here and now then we can. I was talking to Kota earlier and he said that he noticed that you seemed really upset since we introduced him into our marriage. He had a feeling that you actually weren’t with this and you know from seeing how you are acting, I can tell you weren’t. Why would you tell me that we could invite him knowing how you felt? You know the last thing I’d ever want to do is hurt you and I ... at first I didn’t notice but now...I see how much it hurt you and I’m sorry.”

“I.... but you love him, Kenny.”

“I loved him...but you are my husband.”

“You fucked him.” Matt said plainly and looked away. “I heard you both the other night.” He said forcing Kenny to take the ring. “Even if you care because I’m sad or whatever...I’d believe it if you didn’t fuck him.” 

“Matt....you...you told me it was fine....”

“And you let it go that far. You should have known he’s your ex. Seeing how happy you were to see him come here. Maybe I was crazy for suggesting it but....you....I don’t want to stand between you guys. I almost fear if I didn’t say it, you’d do it anyway.”

“No, I’d never do that. I....”

“Tell me if it was the other way and he offered I could share you with him...you think he’d be okay with you sleeping with me? I doubt it.  Then again... if it was the other way around, I’d never even be a fucking option.” Matt started crying again. “How you held him after, kissing his forehead while I was facing the wall , cold and alone in my thoughts. I realized in that moment, that it’s not sharing you wanted. No, it’s just you being like yeah you can stay while I can be with who I really want. No. I won’t let this happen.” Matt shook his head. “You never fucking wanted me. You never will. I was just there because he wasn’t around but now he’s here you have your happy ending. You have Kota. You get to be happy. I’m so fucking happy for you Kenny.” Matt was spiraling and I was trying to help him, to hold him but he pushed me away and crumbled to his knees crying. He was inconsolable. “I’m so happy for you both really. I...won’t be in your way anymore”

“Matt...that’s not it at all.”

“Just leave me alone, Kenny. I....I’ll be fine and you’ll be truly happy....isn’t that all that matters in the end?”

[xihaveaplanxx]

I Just Wanna Be Yours (Short Story)

“Matt...are you okay?”

“Huh, yeah.” I noticed how intensely Matt was brushing his hair. He was brushing some of his hair out right now. I noticed how glassy his eyes looked and frowned. I put my hand over his and he let the brush fall to the floor. “Jenny...”

“Matt...what’s wrong?”

“Jenny...I...” He let his hand fall to his side and looked at me. “Jenny...be honest with me...how do you feel about Kota?”

“He’s very nice.”

“No...do....Jenny, I know I agreed to share Kenny with him. Kenny was so happy to see him...Seeing Kenny smile like that. He was so happy but now....I don’t like the idea of it. I actually hate it. The first night in the hotel, Kenny was holding him and I .... I brushed my hair for three hours. Three whole hours. Looking at my reflection. Wondering if it’;seven sharing. What if he just doesn’t want me anymore. Kota is pretty handsome, he’s kind, he’s thoughtful...he’s his ex...whom I know he loves so much. Even when we got married...I know at the wedding he was thinking of him and now he’s back...and ... I....” Matt bent over and picked up the brush, picking the hair out of it as he started brushing his hair again, almost like a compulsive reaction to him being upset.  “I think he’s replacing me. He held him so close to him and I was just there. He....”

“Have you talked to him about it?”

“No. I’m the one who told him I’d be okay with it and he’s happy...I don’t want to take it from him.”

“But if you are uncomfortable with it and you don’t like this...Kenny is understanding. I’m sure he’d get it if you just talk to him.”

“No. He’s so happy...I can’t do this to him.” Matt stopped brushing his hair. “I...I just...”

“Matt, you need to talk to him.”

“Can I sleep on it?”

“No. I know you. You’ll sleep on it and then pretend everything is fine. You are brushing your hair so hard. Look at your brush. You are going to brush your hair out of your head and I know you don’t want that. You need to talk to him. Kenny loves you so much and I know he wouldn’t do anything to intentionally hurt you.”

“Jenny....”

“Do you want me to go with you?”

“No, I need to do it on my own.”

“Are you sure you want to do it alone?”

“I don’t want to do it at all.” He said, clutching his brush as tears fell down his face. “I’m scared Jenny. What if we talk and he tells me that he’s over me. Now he has him back, he has no reason to keep me. I run up our credit card bills buying things for our house and for me. I’m whiny, I’m prissy, I’m too sassy. Sometimes I get mad when he doesn’t put the dishes away and I get snarky sometimes if he takes all the covers so maybe I’m just not good for him like Kota is. He’s always happy to see him and smiling and sweet and he never complains. He’s ideal. I’ll never be what Kenny wanted and I’m scared that if I talk to him about it he’ll just confirm what I know.”

“Matt, calm down. You are just putting words that no one said into Kenny’s mouth...he never said any of those things about you, not once. He loves you more than anything, you know this. When he hangs out with us, he’s showing us cute photos of you guys or talking about how you did something cute like when you wake up and your hair is in your face and you will cling to his back, burying your face there because you feel you aren't ready to wake up. Or how you make him breakfast and almost burned down the kitchen twice. He loves you, Matt.”

“Yeah...but he’ll never ever love me as much as he loves Kota.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

To Prove (Chp 2)

“Now please tell me, why I shouldn’t split you down the middle and leave your remains in bits around the village for your friends and family to find.”

“Please...I....”

“You what? You know, this house, my home, this hill...it is off limits to you beings in the town and yet, I find a parasite...in my garden. You know...I don’t take kindly to parasites.”

“Please...I...”

“You sure do say please alot. So pathetic. Haven’t you heard of me? I am dangerous, I’m crazy. Things shared from your friends, family perhaps.”

“No...”

“Then why were you in my garden?” 

“Please. I will...I will never come back here.”

“You are right, you won’t because I will scatter your body parts all over the town.  You won’t get a chance to break your feeble promise” I raised my hand ready to summon an ice spike. This man was going to get eviscerated and I was not shedding a tear for it. He was trespassing after all. He was going to be dealt with. I almost got it conjured when someone caught my arm. I frowned knowing exactly who it was and admittedly regretting not shooting a spike through his heart when he showed up here. “Adam Cole.....why must you interrupt me.”

“Don’t you think this is a bit much?”

“No.” I said, letting the spell fall so he’d let my arm go. I hated when he touched me. When he looked at me...when he smiled at me that stupid smile and his fangs showed. He was disgusting to me. Pale, sickly, feeble. Crystal blue eyes and pretty brown hair. He does this cute thing when he bites into a bloodfruit. No..gah...I couldn’t stand this fucking vampire. He was such a nuisance to my life. In every single way. “This man was in my garden poking around. He must be dealt with.”

“You can just let him go.”

“I can also kill him and be done with it.”

“What if I don’t let you kill him?”

“What if I kill you instead?”

“You wouldn’t. You’d miss me.”

“I don’t even want you in my manor.”

“And yet you’ve never kicked me out.. You even let me plant my fruits here and if they aren’t in season...you’ve let me trouble you for a drink.” He smirked. I didn’t have to turn to him to know it. I could hear the smirk in his voice and it made me want to fight him instead of this trespasser. “Now, let this man go. I’m sure he won’t make another mistake. You’ve not even asked the poor man his name.”

“I don’t care about his name.”

“You were always so rude but...it’s cute when it’s you.” He moved from behind me and moved my grip from the other man. “What is your name?” He asked him.”

“D-D-Dom.” He stuttered out. “I...I...there...there is a secret tunnel up here....I...I have taken fruits from here for my family from time to time.”

“You steal from me?” I glared at him. “Now you must die.”

“Dreama no! His family must be really suffering if he's stealing far from town.” 

“That’s not my business. He’s from that gross town as far as I am concerned he deserves whatever befalls him. His family’s suffering is what they deserve. I don’t pity them.”

“Is your family fine now at least?” Adam asked, ignoring everything I was even saying now. 

“Mostly...just things...th..things been rough.”

“Well, I’ll send you a few things and you can be on your way but please...don’t come back. I urge you not to. I won’t be allowed to save you next time.”

“T--Thank you.”

“Don’t mention it.” Adam smiled at him as he took a basket from my table and headed outside with him. He came back a bit later and sat before me. I wanted to punch him in the throat so badly and he did this thing, this thing where he would tilt his head to the side and then run his hand through his hair before talking to me. Obnoxious. “You know, you could do to be a little nicer.”

“I hate the town, I hate the people.”

“The people that you hate so much are long gone. Don’t you think maybe you should go, straighten out things show the people you aren't’ so bad.”

“No. I hate everyone there. I hate everything about the town. My old friends there. They let me think it was safe to be me around them and I showed it and they labeled me a freak...crazy....they mocked me and others did. They’d introduce me as the crazy friend, a psychopath. That shit fucking hurt. Now everyone thinks that bullshit is true. It’s not worth defending me to those people.”

“Dreama...”

“I don’t want to talk about this. I’m going to bed.”

“Do you want me to go with you?”

“No...you can sleep out here or I don’t know...leave my fucking manor.”

“Oh, I’d never leave your manor.” He moved forward in his chair. “Then I’d have to leave you. I don’t think I’d ever want to do that.”

“I’d like it if you did that.”

“Well then you’d be lonely.”

“Good.”

“You are so difficult.”

“And you are annoying but you are still here. All the time in my fucking way when I didn’t ask for you to be here. You just are here  with your fucking fruits and shit. I can't stand you. I was fine alone. I was fine before you. I’ll be fine after you. I’ll be fine without you! I don’t need you. I don’t want you! I never did. I never fucking will. So just fuck off!:

“......................That is the meanest thing you’ve ever said to me.” He said before getting up from the chair. “The worse thing....is I think you meant it.”

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

“Adam...please...”

“No.”

“Adam.”

“No.” He stopped what he was doing and looked at me. “You made it perfectly clear. You detest me. You hate me. You don’t want me here. Then I’ll go. Where? Who knows. Maybe I’ll go to town. I mean it seems they weren’t wrong about you. You are a horrible fucking being.”

“Take that back”

“Why? You proved what they said about you. You are a terrible being. You are crazy, a psychopath. Why would I waste my time with you?”

“Stop it, Adam.”

“No. You....you hurt me. I trusted you.”

“No one told you to fucking do that.” I was angry at him now and I knew... I knew full ahead that everything I was going to say to him was fueled by my pure rage at him for making me mad. For hurting my feelings. For echoing the town's sentiments towards me. Those friends' words to me. “You came to the house of a stranger and made yourself at home. Trusting someone who never fucking liked you.”

“You never liked me?” He crossed his arms. “Yeah? Do you kiss people you don’t fucking like then? Even fuss over them when they get sick.”

“I used you. For comfort. Now I know why I don’t like others. I don’t need comfort or friends or....whatever the fuck you thought you were to me.”

“I thought you ... I...”

“If you say you thought I loved you, you’d be delusional.” 

“I....”

“I never cared about you. I never have. I never will.” 

“You are a terrible liar but...I’m not going to stay here and let you hurt me. Not like this.”

“Then why are you talking...just go.”

“Because I’m giving you a chance to apologize.”

“I won’t apologize and I won’t beg for you to not leave.”

“Of course you won’t.” He shook his head. “For what it’s worse. I’m sorry for what I said earlier. I at least didn’t mean what I said to you. Not remotely. I got heated. I’m sorry for saying it in the first place. That was fucked up of me.” I was stunned. No one...ever apologized for saying horrible things to me....they just sprouted it out more and him saying sorry...it made me feel awful for saying what I said to him. 

“Adam...I....I’m sorry too. I shouldn’t have said what I said to you at all. You know that I don’t think that about you. I didn’t mean it. I feel bad you think I meant what I said. I just...I got upset...”

“But that was VERY cruel what you said.”

“I know and you didn’t deserve it. At all. I don’t want you to leave. In truth, you are the one thing that’s never left despite how dismissive I am of you.”

“Oh, you aren’t dismissive of me.” He wrapped his arms around me. “You let me sleep in your bed though I don’t need sleep. More like you let me hold you while you sleep.”

“Shut up, Adam Cole.”

“I find it cute when you call me by my whole name. It’s precious.”

“Shut up.” I shook my head and he kissed my forehead. “Does this mean you won’t leave me?”

“No but don’t say what you said to me earlier, not ever again. That....really really hurt me.”

“I’m sorry.”

“I know you hate most things...I do but...would it be crazy to think that there are more beings like me that aren’t so bad and see the good things in you. I don’t think you are crazy or psychotic. You are mean sure but even then it’s not all the time. It’s just this wall you keep up.”

“You are an exception.”

“Well tell you what, I do promise no one will ever bother you so long as I’m here. I’ll protect you.”

“You let that man go.”

“He wasn’t a threat. He pissed on your floor did you not notice in fear. He wasn’t a threat to you. A real threat. I’ll keep you safe by any means necessary.”

“Yeah?”

“Of course. After all, you allow me to live here with you. I suppose it would be my honored duty to protect you and the manor.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

To Prove (Chp 1)

“I think I’ll go up there.”

“Jenny, did you not hear anything that was discussed here?” Damian looked over at me. I know he was just worried for me. I understood that. Considering all we heard, the idea of even going up to that house on the hill to talk to the elf that lived there was probably a death wish but it was just hearsay. Most of the people talking never even met her...and if they did met her once or twice and that’s no way to build an opinion. “It doesn’t sound safe, dear.”

“She could be lonely.”

“There is probably a reason.” Domnik commented. “I mean, no one even sees her. And those that have, you heard the stories. She attacks others. She’s bitter and angry. She doesn’t want to be bothered. You’re really sweet, I get that but being sweet won’t protect you if she tries to come at you with a fire spell.”

“I’d protect Jenny if it came to that.” Damian said, smiling at me which made me blush. “But Dom has a point.”

“People that are like that want to be left alone.” Rhea added. “I know you mean well...it’s what makes you the sunspot in this group.” She smiled at me sweetly “But...some people just don’t wanna be bothered. Good intentions or not.”

“She’s been alone for years though.”

“Yeah..probably for a reason. If you are serious about this though....we’ll go with you.” Damian said. “Can’t risk you going there alone.”

“Yeah because if she gets hurt, her father will rip your face off and wear it as a mask.” Dominik said which startled us all. My father was not that kind of man, even if he was protective of me. Now my step mother, Francine...she’d do that. No magic in her but she’d find a way to commit that murder if need be. “Or her step mom.”

“Definitely Francine.” Rhea agreed. “I guess we should get ready to head out there. Takes a while to get up that hill. Should go home , get a good rest then head out tomorrow but...I’m just sayin’...don’t be disappointed if she doesn’t come out and if she does and she’s mean....don’t be shocked.”

“I don’t think she’s probably that bad.”

“You always think the best in people. Some would say it foolish”

“But others would think it good to give everyone an equal chance.” Damian said, trying to defend me. “You never know, maybe Jenny’s hunch is right. I mean everyone says one thing...that doesn’t mean they are all right.”

“If you say so. It’s going to be such a trip. Honestly, I’m kind of excited. Hiking. Braving the woods. Could be fun.”

“That’s the spirit.”

“But if a spider or some shit gets on me again, it’ll be your head, Priest.”

“Noted.”

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

“You are planning to do what?”

“I want to go...and speak to that elf that lives on that hill. She’s got to be lonely, Francine.”

“You will not be doing that.” Francine crossed her arms. “Priest, this is your fault. Putting stupid shit in her head. You know she’s sweet and wants to be nice to people and now you got her thinking she can go up on a hill and talk to some demon elf living on a hill that is alone for a damn reason. I swear, I allow you in this house, I feed you food and you get in her fucking head. You are a menace.”

“Mrs. Matthews, it wasn't my idea.” Damian spoke up and Francine pointed her fork at him angrily. 

“Don’t you lie on my daughter's name, Priest.” Francine told him. “She wouldn’t think some stupid shit on her own. Even if she’s sweet as her father, she’s not a fucking idiot.”

“But...”

“But nothing. You get out of my house, right now.”

“Francine, please.” I decided to speak up because this was not okay. It wasn’t his fault and I wouldn’t let him take the fall. Even if standing up to Francine was terrifying, I had to. “He’s not wrong. It was my idea.”

“What?”

“It was. I wanted to go up there...see if the rumors are even true. I doubt one person can be that awful.”

“You are so sweet, like your father.” She frowned. “I don’t want you going up there. It’s not safe.”

“I’ll protect her.” Damian said and she glared at him. “I’d never let Jenny get hurt.”

“I’m going to give her my lucky knife for protection. There is nothing you could do that my knife can’t. Plus it would never break her heart and sleep with her best friend on her fucking wedding night.”

“Francine...” My dad reached over and patted her arm. I could tell that the reason she was like this is because she was hurt before. Before she met my dad, she got her heart shattered and I understood why she didn’t like Damian but he’s been nothing but good to me but I guess she was scared he’d lead me astray. It was sweet, at least her version of sweet. “Damian is not like that.” He told her trying to ease her. “I admit, I’m not crazy about you going on this mission but I trust Damian and your friends to keep you safe, to keep each other safe. Promise me though, if things get dangerous...you will leave immediately.”

“We will.” I told my dad. “I promise.”

“And Damian, not a hair better be harmed on my daughters head or else it won’t be Francine you are dealing with.”

“No..I.. I get that.” Damian seemed terrified, I didn’t blame him. It wasn’t often my dad was like this. “I wouldn’t let anything happen to her.”

“I know...But...just in case.”

“I’ll keep her safe.”

“Thank you.” My dad smiled at him sweetly. “Francine, let’s go to bed. I think you need rest.” He told her and she nodded her head as he helped her from the table. 

“Damian, I’m sorry.” Francine apologized which was surprising to me, she never apologies. Not ever. Well, not usually.  “I just....you better bring her back in one piece.”

“I will. Don’t worry.” He went over to her and actually held his arms out and she hugged him. I never thought I’d see it, but she did it. “I’m sorry for whatever the man before you met, Mr. Matthews did to you. I can assure you, I’d never do that to Jenny.”

“That is reassuring. Thank you.”

“You don’t need to thank me. I get you are concerned. I’m glad she’s got someone like you in her life. Well a strong woman like you in her life like that...besides Rhea that is.”

“Oh, I know that  Rhea would take you down before I could if shit went sideways.”

“You wouldn’t be wrong there.”

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

“Gee, did Damian survive dinner?”

“He did. He’s on the way home now. Francine had such a time. She really doesn’t want me to go and I almost don’t want to but....you know....”

“I know. You are so bloody sweet. I wish I could relate.”

“You are sweet, Rhea!”

“Shh! Don’t let people know about it.” She cackled into the receiver. “I have an image to uphold”

“Sure, sure.” I chuckled. “I just...I hope that the elf up there won’t be so mean. I mean it seems everyone around has opinions but most of those people really seem like they never even tried to talk to her, not once. Sometimes, people get like that if they are picked at or mocked. I mean it seems they made up their mind and cast her out on assumptions.”

“You aren’t wrong. I always wondered about it when I’d hear it in bars but I felt it must be a reason for it. That everyone says the same thing but even that can be suspicious. It’s the same story, no different additions. It could just be rumors from people that betrayed her. Oh I know that. Back where I come from, people spread horrible rumors about me because I am as you know half giant and I’m super strong and they talked about how I apparently beat up some girl for breathing and was a man and other shit. It was pretty bad and people believed it and I didn’t wanna bother with people for a while and then I moved here. New town, new slate. My father loves it here. He adores your father.”

“Yeah, Reinhardt is great except when he accidentally breaks things by slamming his cups on the table.”

“Yeah, y’all elves have such dainty objects. Giants make shit to last.” Rhea chuckled. “I know my dad always replaces it.”

“He does. He brings back ups.” I shook my head. “He’s very sweet.”

“He is. When people would bully me he’d try to stop them but you know he’s clumsy, would make them mock me more and then I’d get REALLY mad. It was a lot going on. I’m just glad that things are better for us here. But what was I saying? Oh, I remember. I can almost see now we are talking about why that other elf doesn’t come down from the hill. I mean if an entire town that barely knew me was talking THAT much shit. I’d never come down either. And if I did I’d just be mean so they'd have a reason to be assholes. Maybe the people that started these things are people she trusted , that this town trusted and they all go by what they say. People might be gone now  but still, sometimes that shit lasts.”

“I mean it’s possible. I just... I understand being lonely and isolated too. I don’t want that for anyone. I want to just...try to be there for her you know. Who knows how she might be feeling up there.”

“I know but also those types of people can be dangerous. Trust me when I first met you, you remember how I was.”

“I know...I know.”

“Gotta approach calmly. I want to hope it'll be okay but she’s been there awhile it seems. What if we are the first people to even attempt to talk to her. Who knows how that might be? I feel hopeful like you but also...scared. I mean it is said she’s VERY powerful too. That can be rough. I know you got some magic and well I’m strong and Damian is also strong and Dom...well he’s cute isn’t he.” Rhea snorted, “We might not be able to take her if she chooses violence.”

“We’ll just run if it comes to that. If she tries to harm us, we’ll know....that maybe the people are wrong but in my heart...I just don’t feel they are. She’s probably misunderstood.”

“Sounds like me trying to describe an ex like oh no they are just misunderstood. They didn’t mean to rob that Taco stand, they just accidentally put the taco in their pocket and ran off and stabbed a guy dressed like a penguin.”

“What?”

“It’s a story for another time.” Rhea sighed. “Well, I better get to sleep. You know I’m cranky when I’ve not slept and I’d like to be out cold before my dad gets in so he can’t wake me up with his loudness. He went to the bar tonight...”

“Oh no...”

“And you know he’s going to be feeling the music intensely and I’d rather be out cold before all that.”

“That’s fair. I’ll see you tomorrow Rhea.”

“Alright, Goodnight Sunshine.”

“Night night.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

Because You Were Nice To Me (Short Story)

Ten years ago

_____________________________________

“Dreama, calm down!”

“I can’t. He...he broke my heart, Kenny. So did she. I trusted them both. She was my fucking best friend and she fucked my boyfriend. I bring it up to them and they are both like well that’s life. She was somewhat sorry but if she was sorry, if she felt so bad, why would she even fuck him? Why would she give in to his advances knowing how much I love him. I feel so stupid. I finally thought I had something decent, someone that cared and then...I....Kenny, I just want to lie down outside. In fact, I might. I’m sorry to bother you.”

“Dreama, wait.” I stopped Dreama. She was having a horrible time. She walked in on Phil legit banging her best friend, ex best friend now , April. April tried to mediate the situation but I doubted telling your friend oh sorry I fucked your boyfriend, please forgive me , is really going to smooth things over. Dreama was with Phil since forever it seemed and now she was just...I felt so bad for her. She was rarely happy it seemed but she loved him and she loved Jungle Boy but that...that was a different kind of love. She treated him like a child and since he was the size of one...that checked out. I think he was a teenager though. Last time I checked. Headmaster Hosea had found him and brought him to the academy to live and Dreama took care of him most of the time. He was feral and he did attack sometimes but most of the time, he was in her arms, being coddled. It always seemed Phil hated him with a passion and I heard him in the boys bathroom saying some fucked up shit about him and I am glad he never did anything to him because I think that she’d take him out. She might be hurt now but if he harmed Jungle Boy, she’d be more than hurt. She’d be inconsolable, more than she was right now. “You can stay with me if you want.”

“No, I don’t want to bother you. I’m sorry. I’ve done enough. You know everyone warned me about him. I didn’t want to listen. They were like he’s too old and he’s shifty but no...I decided to go after him and now I’m here crying over this piece of shit. I just...”

“You shouldn’t be alone.” I told her. “You can stay here, it’s fine. Really. Invite Jungle Boy if you want. We can sit and watch a movie or something.”

“Okay.” She looked up at me. “I...”

“I get it. It’ll be okay. Things will be fine. I promise.”

___________________________________

“Uh, why is Jungle Boy covered in blood?” I asked as he walked into the room. He knew the blood wasn’t his. I was more concerned about whose it was. “What happened?”

“I found Phil.” He said simply. “Dreama texted me what went on and I called her to confirm and she was crying. I had to....I had to make him hurt like he hurt her.”

“You are covered in blood and all around your mouth...what did you do?”

“Just know he got what he deserved. I can’t hurt April. She advised against it but she saw it.”

“Holy shit.” I had no idea how to even respond. Maker only knows what this Jungle Nymph did to him. Who knew if the man was still breathing. The amount of blood on him was terrifying. “Do..do you want to use my shower?”

“Yes.” He nodded his head and walked off to the bathroom. I didn’t know how to even respond to that. 

“I didn’t ask him to do that.” She walked over to me probably sensing I was alarmed. “He would act like that. It’s because he cares and shows it in his own way.”

“I’d say so.” I looked over at her. “How are you feeling?”

“Bad. I just... awful. I really cared for him, you know. For them both and I just feel heavy and lost. I almost feel like liking anyone doesn’t bode well for me. Maybe it’s me.”

“No. You are a very sweet, talented person. Some guys are just trash. He’s trash.”

“You are just saying that.”

“I’m not. You are a really nice person and sure you can be rough around the edges, but deep down you have a good heart. I see how you are to Jungle Boy or even that one mage, Danhausen, the one who keeps getting in trouble for putting curses on other students. You are very sweet  and you are cute. Some guys are just not worth it. He’s some guy, clearly.”

“Thanks Kenny.” She smiled at me and then she did something I’d never imagined. She kissed me. I was stunned when she pulled away from me. I had no idea how to even respond to that. Maybe it was her emotions being heightened because she was sad or something. I was just confused. 

“Uh...what was that?”

“Oh..I’m sorry. I just...”

“I...that was something.”

“Can we not talk about it? I’m sorry. I’m feeling a lot and I guess...you were one of the few guys that don’t make me feel awful. I’m sorry.”

“I think I understand.” I looked at her. “I’m sorry other men aren’t great to you but you will find someone that will be one day. Probably not me. I’m sorry. I just don’t see you that way.”

“No..I get that. I just...I made things weird. I’m sorry Kenny.”

“It’s okay.” I hugged her. “I feel bad like I broke your heart after he broke yours. I’m really sorry.”

“No, really it’s fine. I just...I feel other than you and maybe Jungle Boy, other guys treat me so...bad and Phil didn’t...til lately and then what he’s done now. I just...I feel used and sad and pathetic and unwanted.”

“Well you are definitely not pathetic. You are wonderful.” I patted her head. “And one day, you will meet someone that sees that and I’ll make sure I talk to them and get a feel for them. I don’t want you getting hurt like this ... not ever again.”

“Thank you, Kenny.” She clung to me. “You really are such a great friend. I hope one day you find someone too.”

“I’m sure I will one of those days, for now I’m fine on my own, fine tuning my spells and making sure you and Jungle Boy stay out of trouble.”

“I’m glad you are here.” She leaned her head against me. “I just...want things to be better, that’s all.”

“And they will be.” I patted her head. “It’ll hurt for some time but one day...things will be better and you won’t even think of him.”

“I can’t wait for that day.” She yawned a tiny bit. 

“Are you tired?”

“I’ve not  slept.”

“You need sleep. If you fall asleep during the movie, I won’t be too upset. I’ll even cuddle you if it makes you happy though I feel Jungle Boy will want to cuddle more. You know how he is.”

“I know but lucky for him, I doubt anyone else could ever take my attention from him.”

“And oh how we are all lucky for that. I’d hate to see him if you didn’t give him all the attention.”

“A Lot of people would be harmed.”

“Or murdered.”

“Little bit of both.”  She chuckled. “He really is my favorite, besides you here. You guys and Headmaster Hosea at least show me that not all guys are trash...most seem to be but not all of you. Whenever I find a new boyfriend, I want one like you Kenny. Sweet and understanding and just....not a piece of shit.”

“Well there are tons of good guys out there. You’ll find someone like that. I promise.”

“You know at least when you tell me that...I actually believe it.”

__________________________________

[xihaveaplanxx]

Welcome Home (Chp 2)

“This is Moxley. He’s a werepire. A mixture of a vampire and a werewolf. He tends to like being alone but sometimes...he lets me and Kenny invite him to dinner.”

“What an introduction.” He looked over at Matt and shook his head before looking over at Raj and I. “What’re your names?”

“Jenny...and this is Raj.” I told him and he nodded his head in our direction. 

“Cool.” He said simply. “She seems more together than Dreama.”

“I almost feel like you guys don’t like her. No one really says anything positive about her.” I pointed out. 

“Oh no, I adore her.” Matt commented “It’s just she tends to be very mean to others and vindictive. She’s had a rough life, I understand but....”

“I had a rough life.” Moxley looked at Matt. “My family fucking abandoned me in the damn woods and I had to fight to survive. I got lied to by people I trusted left and right. I got held in captivity, beaten and worse things and I’m still not even a tenth of the asshole that Dreama seems to be. She’s only like that because she got her heart broken by Phil, end of story. You and I both know it. You don’t find it weird that she was tolerable at first despite whatever went on with her before then she got her heart broken and now she’s just mean to everyone. And over him. Some dusty ass mage that can’t fight himself out of a paper bag...literally. Didn’t we not all warn her about him? He was a known thot and she just wanted to be with him and when shit went left she hadn't recovered. I get it, one of her old friends betrayed her and fucked him while they were together and they went on and got married and I know that kills her inside because that’s fucking rough but that doesn’t mean go around being a dick. I think she does it because they broke her trust but you can’t spend your life being that way because of shit that happens to you.” He crossed his arms. “I feel for her to an extent but she does fucked up things constantly and the headmaster doesn’t care clearly seeing as he wants to keep her safe. Should cut her loose so she can just be chaotic elsewhere.”

“Where would she live?”

“Not my problem. She thinks she’s suffering now, she really would if she wasn’t here.” He shook his head. “No, I don’t think I’d even wish that on her now I think of it. She clearly needs something, someone, anything to keep her calm. Sure as fuck won’t be your brother though.”

“Excuse me?”

“She’s going to make that man crack and he’s going to become another notch in the this is why I’m fucking crazy narrative. I feel bad. He loves her so much and she...is just a problem. The only time I see her be genuine is near you and Jungle Boy.”

“I...”

“I know you want your brother happy but think of it...is he really happy with her or is he with her because he doesn’t want her with anyone else”

“He loves her more than anything. I....”

“Yeah but...he deserves better before she makes him lose his shit again. He can’t do this forever.”

“I....”

“Well that’s enough of that.” Kenny intervened seeing this conversation going somewhere it didn’t need to.  “Let’s...let’s just get ready for the mixer.”

“I’m sorry if I came off as brash.” Moxley apologized. “I’m just saying what needs to be said.” He shrugged before looking at me and Raj “She’s not...that bad. Just be careful near her. She’s very...emotionally volatile.”

“Noted.” I said though I just felt more uneasy about ever meeting her. 

“Anyway, said you guys were new. You guys got lucky meeting Kenny and Matt. They are really nice but also very annoying if any type of love song comes on. Matt cries and Kenny wipes his tears. They are like a hallmark movie. They make me wanna throw up but I love them.”

“Wow.” Kenny chuckled. “You always had a way with words.”

“It’s true. You two are fucking obnoxious but....are really nice.” He commented. “All gross and in love. I don’t get how you do it but you are happy and it’s what matters.”

“Thanks...that’s oddly sweet of you to say.”

“I have my moments.”

___________________________________

We made it to the shopping district, distracting one of the giants, Reinhardt wasn’t hard. He had been a guard for years and it seemed every year, Dreama could get him to just leave his post so we could leave. Sometimes I suspected he did it on purpose. I felt that this whole area, the school, the parks, the mall strip was part of the entire school. Like the town was built around it. That all of it, the entire town belonged to Headmaster Hosea meaning he always knew where everyone was at all times. It was true, we weren’t allowed on the shopping district premises.....if we didn't tell anyone. You could come and go as you pleased so long as someone was aware of where you were and that you came back at curfew. Rules were never for me though. Dreama and I were specifically barred last year for an incidente in one of the clothing stores. I bet Hosea wished it was fighting that we got up to but it was something much more....attractive.  That and all the debt we have acrewed. It was a lot going on. I just wanted to know whose card she had. I was curious. We walked into the clothing store and Adam was wandering around ahead of us and finally I could just ask her what shedid. Who she stole from.

“Tell me, whose card is this that you stole?”

“Well, I’ll give you a hint, you don’t like him. No one likes him.”

“Phil? That really pessimistic mage that no one likes. The one that Hosea is going to fire at some point?”

“Well, he was in the teachers lounge and I was talking to Dorian and he left his wallet out and I took it. I hope he’s got money on it. He looks dirty, smells like a swamp but...he has to get paid for his subpar teaching. We have to be able to do something.”

“You would steal from him.” I chuckled. “He deserved it. After all he done to you.” I crossed my arms. Dreama used to be in LOVE with him but that was putting it lightly. He broke her heart badly and then decided to be a complete asshole to everyone and everything. His wife worked in the school but she wasn’t allowed within 20 feet of Dreama because Dreama will use her necromagic and raise the skeletons in the yard to attack her. She did it once ... or twice...three times. I figured Phil would have left with his wife out of safety but maybe he needed the money. All the things he wanted to do never worked out for him. Not his wrestling, his fighting, hell his teaching. I always theorized it was because he sucked.  I probably wasn’t wrong. “Well, I guess, let’s go shopping. Looks like they got new clothes. You’d look cute in that bat hoodie. You should get one and one for my brother and one for Jungle Boy... I know you like to make you guys match.”

“You can match with us too.” She smiled sweetly at me. She was being friendly to me. I didn’t know how to feel. It’s not like her. Maybe she finally didn’t despise me. “Adam, come here.” Dreama called for the werewolf and I was annoyed. I was only tolerating him for her but in truth, I didn't care for him. He was always so close to her and walked way too close for comfort. “Adam, how do you feel about these plaid shirts? '' She reached on the rack near us and held up two shirts. “They’ld look so cute on you.”

“Do you...do you think that?”

“Of course. You are the cutest thing. With your accent and your face and your pretty hair. You look like a prince.”

“Oh...that’s so kind of you to say.” He turned red and I in turn was seeing red. “You don’t have to buy me anything. I can buy my own stuff.”

“Oh no, it’s my treat, Adam. Pick whatever you want. You are new after all. Think of it...as a welcome present.”

“Wow. Thanks. You are so nice.”

“Especially when it’s not her money.” I pointed out and she glared at me.

“It...but it’s her card isn’t it?  Is it yours?”

“It’s her exes. She stole his card to fuck with his credit.” I told him, crossing my arms. I know she was angry at me but I did not care. She wasn’t about to sit here and pretend she’s so sweet and kind when she really fucking isn’t. At least not to me. She is nice to my brother and to Jungle Boy. She was passive to Kenny and she and Moxley had bad blood after a very VERY turbulent break up so bad he didn’t even tell people they used to date, almost like he was purging the very idea of her out his mind and almost see why he did it. He was the one who warned me about going after her and after seeing what she did to me two years ago, we should have stayed broken up but no....I loved her too much.  I thought I still did but now...I’m starting to wonder....did I really?

“Really?” He asked me and I nodded my head. “What did he do to you to make you want to do that?” Adam asked her. Was this man really trying to reason her doing this? As if there was ever a reason to try and fuck someone elses credit up. This man was already  in too deep and he’d known her for only a few hours.

“He cheated on me with one of my best friends and then they got married and then kept running his fucking mouth consistently. He’s actually a teacher at the school now. No one likes him because he’s always whining and complaining. He’s actually a piece of shit.” Dreama told him and I was surprised she’d be so honest to him. 

“That’s awful.” Adam told her. “ I guess.. It wouldn’t hurt to mess with his credit a little bit. We won’t get caught will we?”

“Nah, not if we act fast.”

“Then let’s buy shit.” He told her and they ran off into the clothing racks. I don’t know what I witnessed. No I did. I think I just witnessed my girlfriend not being my girlfriend anymore. He readily accepted that when most others wouldn’t, not like that. Something had to fucking wrong with that man deep down. Maybe he was like her in the sense they seem nice on the outside but they are just messed up inside. I don’t think either of them even noticed I was even still in the store. I waited outside for them and they did come out about twenty minutes later holding bags on top of bags of stuff. 

“How much did you spend?” I asked, hoping they’d respond to me and that I wasn’t just some ghost in the background. She reached into her pocket and gave me the receipt. My eyes widened. I knew she would do damage but....wow. “Maker. He’s going to be in debt for the rest of his damn life.”

“He shouldn’t have done what he did.” Adam commented and I noted how deep this man really was. There was something up with this one. “She got you a few things too. She felt bad running off like that.” He told me as she handed me a bag. I looked in it and she got me some shirts, some pants, some shoes, a necklace, and a new nose ring. A plush cat because I collected those because of her for some reason. 

“Thanks” I told her, though really, for the first time her doing anything for me didn’t seem to matter. It’s like seeing her with Adam like that completely made me want to separate from her. At first I was angry but then...I felt clarity for the first time in my life in so long. Maybe we’d just be better off as friends after all. “Dreama, can we talk for a moment?” I pulled her to the side while Adam was guarding the bags and looking at his phone. We walked around the corner and I took a deep breath. “Dreama...I think you really like him...more than even you know.” I looked at her. “I....if you want to be with him. I won’t stop you. Actually, I almost encourage it.”

“Are...are you breaking up with me?”

“Yes.” I told her. “I think it’s better for us both. Don’t you? All we do is fight and bicker. Yes, fucking is great but it’s all we really have. He seems to understand you better anyway and it’s only been a few hours.”

“Would you really let go so easily? Without a fight?”

“Yes.” I crossed my arms. “And there it is. You want me to fight and lose my shit again. I can’t do that and you know I can’t. It’s better if we are just friends if you even want to be that. 

“I.....really? You would be okay with that?”

“It’s better than you trying to sneak around with him behind my back. He clearly likes you too.”

“I...wow...thanks Nick.” She looked up at me. “Will we really be friends still though?”

“Yes. Believe it or not, I do care for you a lot. Even if you are really fucked up sometimes.” I smiled and kissed her forehead. “You are one of my favorite people regardless of what role I play in your life.”

“That’s quite sweet.” She smiled at me. 

“I can be.” I told her. “You better hope Jungle Boy likes him. You know how he is. He’s violently protective of you.”

“I know.” She shook her head. “I got him a few things so maybe...he’ll be mellow when he meets him.”

“I saw a skeleton romper on that receipt. I’m going to guess that’s for Matt.”

“Yes it is.” She chuckled. “He’d look so cute in it.”

“Course you’d think so.” I shook my head. “Let’s get back to Adam. I’m sure he’s wondering what is going on.”

“Possibly.” She said as we walked back around the corner. Adam was still standing there on his phone, looking at something. “Hey Adam, we are ready to go now.”

“Alright.” He walked over and handed her her bags and gave me mine as well. “I do have a question. How will we sneak all this into the school?”

“Oh there is a secret passage.” Dreama informed him. “We’ll get in just fine.”

_________________________

“Listen to me. I know it was her. Who else would st eal my credit card and spend damn near 2000 fucking dollars on it. I don’t have the money to pay that shit back.”

“You make more than that a week teaching here, Mr. Brooks. Where does all your money go?”

“I have bills and shit, Hosea. I....when I see her...”

“You will do nothing.” I looked at the man before me. “You won’t even talk to her. I will talk to her.”

“And she will lie to you like she lies to every damn person. She only tells people whatever will help her get ahead. I bet her family didn’t leave her. She probably murdered them.”

“Those are damning accusations, Mr. Brooks. Maybe it is you who shouldn’t have been messing with a student before. Yes, we are all adults here but at the end of the day she was your student and you broke her heart and for one of her own friends and now you come to me when you misplace your things as you often did wanting to point fingers at someone you hurt. Yes, she would have motive but also, she makes it her business to not be around you so I just don’t see how this is her fault. Even if it was, you shouldn’t leave your stuff out.”

“She’s ruining my credit because she’s being petty.”

“You cheated on her and broke her heart. I can’t say I pity you that much.”

“You know, I feel bad for your daughter having such a sad sack for a fucking father. You just let shit go on and don’t say....” I raised my hand, making him bite his own lip. He covered his mouth, now it was bleeding. I had no time for my parenting to be put into question, not by someone like him. 

“Now you’ve gone too far.” I shook my head. “You know it has crossed my desk more than once, petition after petition to get you thrown out and I must say, the last case to come to me was quite damning. You had an old colleague here last year, remember him. Imagine my surprise to see a video of him biting Kenny, the captain of the wrestling team because you came at his boyfriend like a crazy person and hit him. From what I saw all Matt Jackson did was walk into the room and you hit him and Kenny was rightfully defending his boyfriend and got bitten. I heard of the incident but I told them with no evidence it’s not much I could do so imagine my surprise when I got the tape. It’s all I needed. Now you come in looking foolish again and for the last time. I want you to pack your things and leave. From this point on, you are fired Mr. Brooks and you won’t be allowed in the town either as I own it. This whole area is mine and I want you gone from it. You are a blight to this academy and a blight to the people that come into contact with you except for your wife who I guess made her bed when she chose to be with you over a decent friendship she had formed. That is neither here nor there. From this point forth. You have been terminated.”

“What? You.....”

“Goodbye, Mr. Brooks. Best of luck on your future endeavors.”

________________

We had gotten things back to our rooms with ease. Turns out Adam’s room was near mine so I’d see him alot which shockingly didn’t bother me now that Dreama and I formally broke up. I was watching him because if he hurt her, I’d hurt him. We may have broken up but I still cared for her and if she was unhappy, I’d deal with it. We met up in the hall and here came Phil stomping over to us pissed off. Well someone must have got a very very upsetting notification on their phone.

“You bitch.” He walked up to Dreama. “You stole my credit card and tanked my fucking credit!”

“Me? Why would I do that?”

“Don’t play dumb.” He crossed his arms. “Give me the card.”

“I don’t have it.” She told him which wasn’t a lie. We shredded it in my room before meeting up with Adam out here.  “You shouldn’t misplace your things.”

“You are a fucking liar. I could hit you.” He told her and Adam moved in front of her before I could even act. “Who the fuck are you?”

“That doesn’t matter. You are not going to threaten to hit a woman like that. She said she doesn’t have your card, then she doesn’t.”

“Oh you found another lonely soul to fuck over and Nick is right there still. How cute.” He tried to peer behind Adam to  glare at me. “Listen kid, I don’t know you and my problem isn’t with you it’s with your bitch friend who stole my shit.”

“Don’t talk about her like that.” 

“Kid, get out of my face.”

“I’m not a fucking kid.” Adam pushed him and Phil tried to hit him but Adam headbutted him full force with his own head, knocking him out. Adam seemed fine, but Phil sure as fuck was not. “Don’t ever call me that.” He shouted looking down at him. He started howling a bit which was something. He calmed himself down eventually though , noting that Phil was out cold. He walked over to Dreama to make sure she was okay. She was probably very into this. Anyone beating on Phil was like an instant invitation to pound town. Literally. It’s like one of her turn ons besides long hair and being mildly fucked in the head.  “Dreama, are you okay?”

“Yeah.” She nodded her head. “I...wow thanks Adam.”

“It’s no problem. He was being really really dickish. I see why you took his card. He just...”

“No, it’s fine. Thank you.” She hugged him and he held onto her tightly. This man was really caught up and it's been 4 hours since the last time I checked. I soon saw both Seth and Daniel running down the hall, the other werewolves in the school who I assume were responding to Adam’s howling. They ran over to us and looked over at Phil and both shook their heads.

“Is everyone okay?” Seth asked us and we nodded our heads. “Well everyone important. Let me guess he ran his mouth. Fucked around and found out.”

“Something like that.” Adam told him. 

“I could bring him to his room but he doesn’t have one now. Have you heard he finally got fired? The Headmaster got the video footage and promptly got rid of him.”

“You mean of him attacking my brother and Kenny getting bitten?” “ I asked and Daniel nodded his head. 

“Yeah.” He said. “Why he came all the way here to start shit is odd. Well, he won’t be that missed. So miserable for no reason.” Daniel sighed. “The mixer is starting soon. You guys coming?”

“Yeah, we were headed there.” Dreama told him. “You guys are welcome to accompany us.”

“I was going to meet up with Brie actually and Seth was going to see Roman first.” 

“Well then we will meet you there. Please tell Brie I said hello. Seth, you can tell Roman to stop stealing my food when I get up from the table. I know it’s him.”

“I will let him know.” Seth chuckled. “So long as things are good here. I’m sure he’ll come to and be angry. I think I’ll call Reinhardt to come and just put him outside so he doesn’t try to run in and cause more problems.”

“That might be a good idea.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

Welcome Home (Chp 1)

It wasn’t a normal school Not by far. It was a school for supernatural beings. Elves, werewolves, vampires, shifters, the like. My father, Hosea, was the headmaster. He could have easily just had me in the school but I wanted to prove I had reason to be there. Passing the magical tests to get my placement in classes. I personally loved this building. I’d grown up here with my father and his wife, Francine. Francine wasn’t my mother, but I’d known her so long....she was like a mother to me. I called her Mama which always made her smile. I loved her dearly. She even packed my stuff for me when I told her I’d stay on campus. I could have stayed with my father but I wanted to mix with the other students. Make friends. Be like the others. I felt most of my life, it seemed that I stayed up under he and Francine but now, this was about me finding myself. Finding where I fit in. Making friends. I was both excited and terrified. New things always gave me this sense of unease at first and my stomach was doing flips but...I had a good feeling about this. This was my time to be about me. A new world was awaiting me and I couldn’t wait to feel it out.

___________________________

I had just left my dorm room to go to the auditorium. It was the yearly welcome assembly. I saw all matters of beings walking in. Some I had only read of in my fathers books. I found a seat by the door just in case it got overwhelming here for me. I watched people meeting up with friends, even boyfriends or girlfriends. I suddenly felt a bit lonely. I didn’t know anyone. Everyone seemed to know everyone and here I was in the back. I was lost in my thoughts when a guy sat next to me. He didn’t seem...supernatural. He seemed human, like Francine.

“I hope you don’t mind me sitting near you.” He said and I shook my head. “I’m Raj. I’m sorry I didn’t introduce myself. I tend to forget to do that.”

“No, that’s fine. I’m Jenny.” I held my hand out and he shook it . He smelt quite good and I noticed his clothes. They were so sophisticated but also seemed so comfortable and soft.  He had quite a cute smile and the biggest brown eyes. He was quite handsome. “I know this might seem rude but...you aren’t supernatural are you?”

“Oh.  I guess you figured me out.” He chuckled. “I’m one of the few humans here. I heard they had top tier cooking classes here and from where I live, I’d benefit from learning recipes for other beings. It’s what my mother would have wanted. For me to become a world class chef...her last wish was for me to get in here. I hope...I hope I make her proud.”

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay. I know in her memory I’m going to make her proud! I’ve already made a friend it's eems. Well I hope I can count you as one.”

“I think you can.” I told him. “Are you new too?”

“Yeah, my first year. I’ve read books about so many beings but nothing prepares you for when you see a qunari in person. There is one that’s a teacher. I went to him earlier as it seems that he is one of my teachers. He seems really nice but it’s a bit scary to see one in person...not acting like books depict either. Most are stoic and serious but he seemed fun and interesting.”

“I’ve not seen one in person either. I’m glad to hear he’s at least nice.”

“He definitely is. He’s funny. He was telling me about his husband. He’s one of the mages that teaches necromancy. Not anything crazy he told me but he teaches quite a few different specializations.”

“He might be one of my teachers then.”

“Oh are you a mage?”

“Yeah” I nodded my head. I was going to ask how he couldn’t just guess that immediately but not all elves were mages. In fact, most were just common elves that didn’t do magic or anything of the sort but how could I expect him to know that off the bat. I debated telling him who my father was but I just felt maybe it wasn’t the time. It might change how he likes talking to me. He’s speaking to me like I’m a normal being and I almost felt bringing up my dad would change that. My dad even agreed to stay out of my way unless I really needed him, wanting to give me my space. I suppose I wouldn’t bring it up til I’m comfortable or maybe not at all. It depended on how this friendship went. It was in the early stages but I firmly felet maybe I found at least a decent friend in Raj. “I left my staff in my dorm room though.”

“That’s fine. I’m sure you won’t need it for the assembly.”

“Yeah, you’re right.” I chuckled. “Oh, I think it’s starting.” I said nothing, my father was on the stage now. We both quieted down and watched the assembly start. He looked in his element. He took to the podium and I saw him wrinkle his nose as he looked into the first row.

“Dreama, come here” He called to someone and I saw an elf get up wearing a big black hat and a black dress. She got on the stage and he motioned for her to sit in the chair behind the microphone.  I saw him say something to her and she rolled her eyes before taking the seat. I wondered what that was about. “Now, I can finally start the assembly. Welcome students......” He  started his spiel. I'd usually see him rehearse before coming here. He welcomed everyone and told them where to get their schedules and what not. Also mentioned tonight was a mixer.  When he mentioned it, Raj looked at me and I felt my face grow hot. He was something else and it’s only been maybe thirty minutes. I guess I’d have one person I knew there. 

“So, the Mixer is at 9. I guess...I’ll meet you in the gym.” Raj told me. “I mean if you even want to go with me...I’m sorry to assume.”

“Raj, it’s fine.” I told him. “I’d like to go with you. Then we can meet others together and if not, at least we got to know each other.”

“That works for me. Man, I was scared I’d not make friends here...I’m glad it seems that at least I’ve made one already.”

________________________

“Can you not start things for once? Just this once. I don’t want to hear of any incidents with you this year.”

“It won’t be that bad, Hosea.” Dreama looked over at me and I had little hope. The assembly let out and I saw my Jenny leave with a new boy I’d assume. It was nice to see her make a friend, he better be just that. I’m all for her making friends but dating my little girl....we’d cross that bridge if that’s even a bridge they are thinking of. I was dealing with Dreama who was always some type of destructive force. The truth is, I made sure she stayed enrolled here as a favor to an old friend. I was trying to keep her safe as she was....wild. She tended to get into things with other beings constantly and she refused to go to her classes or even respect others. She spent a lot of time telling Solas he’s a bald bitch, her words, not mine. I wanted to hope that if she crossed my daughter, she’d be decent to her. I let her know loosely my daughter was enrolling and told her that she better not  be horrible to her as she is to most. The reason I called her up earlier was she was picking at that other mage, Nick  who she loved tormenting. I could see him getting pissed and I pulled her up where I could watch her before she made him react. We were going to head off the stage when I was approached by a werewolf. He was definitely new. He looked like my dear Francine dressed him. Cowboy boots, jeans and one of the most....well I don’t want to say his shirt was ugly but...it was a choice. Certainly. Dreama was saying alot to me til he walked over to me. I’d never heard her so quiet.

“Oh, Hello Mr. Matthews. I uh....I had questions about where to get my schedule. I uh....I got lost and...”

“It's okay, young man. I can assist you. You must be new.”

“I am. My name is Adam.” He told me. “I’m sorry to not introduce myself first. “

“No, that’s fine.” I smiled at him. I turned to my side and Dreama was staring at him. Oh. I think I understood it. “This is Dreama.” I introduced them, well tried to. He waved to her and I thought she was going to faint. She gave him a tiny wave before trying to look busy doing anything else. “She can show you where to go. She knows the school like the back of her hand.”

“Huh?” She looked at me. Oh, she thought he was cute and she was bashful. Her bashful reaction was the only reason I wanted her to show him around. Maybe him being around would stop her being a mess, at least for a little bit. 

“I’m sure she’s busy.” Adam said. “I don’t want to bother her.”

“You aren’t.” I said pushing her in front of me. “Show him around the school, Dreama. I’d like it if you did.” I told her and I could sense she was redder than red, also I could see the tip of her ears. That was actually adorable. “Adam, I hope to see you at the Mixer tonight.”

“Yeah...it sounds cool. I uh...I guess we’ll get looking for my classes.” Adam said, looking at Dreama. He nodded towards her and he turned on his heel walking down from the stage and she followed. She was actually trailing behind him, trying to look at her phone. She was shy. Reminded me of me when I first met my Francine. I remember, I had Jenny in her stroller and was doing laundry and Francine walked by and I couldn’t believe it. It was a bit of time since Jenny’s mother was gone and I was guarded but somehow, it seemed like Francine was sent to me. A sign to keep going. To find someone to help me with Jenny. The rest was history. I was somewhat a roguish young man back then and I was a bit wild before I met my first wife. I had a wild life and no one pegged me as headmaster of a school like this but stranger things had happened. I got my books and headed out myself. I was going to set up my office and maybe check on Jenny, not hovering though I promised not to. I just wanted to see how she was doing. I hope she is adjusting well. She seems happy during the assembly, I’m choosing to take that as a good sign.

________________________

“Move away from my girlfriend, Wolf Boy.” I walked over to Dreama who was talking to this werewolf I’ve never seen and I didn’t really want to see again. She was still my girlfriend. It seems she forgot..again. Sometimes I did wonder deep down if we were bad for each other. We were very alike. So much so that we are both in incredible debt due to maxing out both our credit cards. We had the same tone about things and it just made me wonder if maybe being so alike...is what made us so...intense to each other. 

“He’s just my friend.” Dreama told me and I scoffed. No one was ever just her friend. The only person that is just her friend is probably my brother, Matt who she adored.  “What do you even want?”

“I wanted to compare schedules but you are following around this stupid wolf boy.”

“He’s not stupid.” She glared at me. “He’s very sweet.”

“Oh, is this your boyfriend?” He asked her. “You never mentioned him the whole time. I don't mean any harm. She was just showing me around.” He told me and I wanted to punch him but also...I knew that would be bad. I had to control my jealousy when it came to her. My brother often told me I needed to control myself and I was trying my best but sometimes..it got the best of me. “Is that okay?”

“It’s...it’s fine.” I told him. “Sorry I was rude. I just....”

“I get it. She is quite cute.” He commented and I found it a bit sus but also, he’s not wrong. She’s hella fucking cute and all mine. “You are a lucky guy.”

“Yeah...I suppose.” I looked over at Dreama who just looked annoyed by me. I hate when she does this. It made me wonder why we were even together. “Dreama, when you are done showing him around, do you want to go to the mixer with me?”

“Are you giving me a choice?”

“Yes. If you want to go with him since he’s new....that’s fine.” I told her and my heart was hoping she’d pick me. 

“We can all go together.” She suggested which I was a bit surprised by it. “Then we can introduce him to Matt and Kenny.”

“That’s ... not a bad idea.” I smiled at her a tiny bit. “They are always excited for new friends.”

“More than you are at least.” She walked over to me and kissed my cheek. “Thanks for being somewhat nice to him.” She whispered to me and I wrapped my arm around her, holding her close to me. “He is very nervous and awkward, I feel bad.” She told me as she looked over at me. 

“It’s fine. I can help you guys with this tour. Show him the best shopping spots off campus.” I suggested. 

“Are we allowed off campus?” He asked and I nodded my head. I mean we aren’t but if we don’t get caught...it’s fine. “Oh shit...fuck I didn’t even introduce myself...I’m so sorry. My name is Adam.” He introduced himself to me. Yeah, she wasn’t wrong, he sure is awkward.

“I’m Nick.” I held my hand out and he shook it. :

“Nice to meet you.” He smiled at me. “Where are we going next then?”

“Finding your lunar studies class and then..we can do light shopping.” Dreama said. 

“With what money?” I asked her knowing both of us had our credit cards just...they were fucked and that was putting it nicely. 

“I got a new card.” She said simply and I knew damn well she stole it. I wanted to know from whom. I know she wouldn’t tell me in front of Adam, she clearly wanted to seem...somewhat decent near Adam.  I didn’t know why. He’d find out soon enough though , she was a bit crazy but....it’s all the very reason why I loved her.

________________________________

“My name is Matt and this is my boyfriend Kenny. I saw you two were new and looked a bit lost so I decided I’d help you guys..if you don’t mind.” Raj and I were met with an elf with long brown hair wearing a lightning bolt earring being followed by his boyfriend who in my opinion had the softest hair I’d ever seen. He was carrying a bunch of books, a backpack and what seemed like a bag full of ingredients I’d assume either for a potion class or maybe for their dorm room. It could be both.  “What are your names?”

“Oh, I’m Jenny.” I introduced myself. “And this is Raj.” I told him and Matt smiled widely at us both. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“You as well.” He nodded his head. “Raj, not to be rude but...you are a human right?”

“Yes,” He told him. “Is that a problem?”

“No. Kenny is human too.” Matt patted his arm. “He sometimes feels like one of the only human born mages in the school. Are you a mage too?”

“No. I’m sorry to say I’m just a regular boring human. No magic, no nothing.”

“Hey now, you aren’t boring. I’m sure you have talents. I noticed you were carrying cooking books. Can you cook?”

“It is something I love to do. I’d like to consider myself decent.”

“You should cook something sometime. It would beat Kenny almost burning down our dorm room again by trying to make ramen.”

“That was one time!” Kenny told him “I didn’t know it would go up in flames like that.”

“What did you do?” Raj asked intrigued by how making ramen could go so wrong.

“I rather not talk about it. It’s not my proudest moment.” Kenny shook his head “But I’d like to taste whatever you cook. I’m interested”

“Well, one of these days, I’ll make something and bring it over to you.”

“We’d appreciate it.” Kenny agreed. “Matt has a brother. I’m sure you’ll see him... or not. He tends to just...be in trouble all the damn time or around his girlfriend. You remember a girl that Headmaster Matthews called on stage at the assembly...that’s his girlfriend.”

“Is she always causing issues? It seemed my....Headmaster Matthews knew her quite well.” I caught myself before giving myself away so easily. I don’t think they noticed it, thankfully. 

“He does. He took her in as a favor for a friend. It’s all she’s ever said. She doesn’t make things easy for him here. Sometimes I feel it’s because she kind of doesn’t have a family.  She does tell everyone this very wild, jungle nymph is her son. It is believable.  If you see him, you’ll know. He runs around shirtless and he’s usually making animal noises, not because that’s what jungle nymphs do, it’s what he does.  He was apparently found in well.. A jungle but left behind by his family and the headmaster brought him here so he’d have a home always and not be alone. Dreama took to him immediately. As a jungle nymph, he’s not too tall. He’s maybe 4 feet even and she tends to carry him around when he’s around. He goes by Jungle Boy but his name is Jack but he doesn’t like being called that so if you see him, never EVER call him that. Only Dreama and Headmaster Hosea can ever do it.”

“What does he even look like?”

“Trust me...when you see him. You will know it.” Kenny told me. “Or you’ll hear him. He’s...something. He gets into things alot and if you make him upset he will try to set it up and make it seem like you hurt him because he knows Dreama will beat the fuck out of anyone who even looks at him funny, much less lays a finger on him so I guess be on his best side if anything.”

“That’s...kind of scary.”

“Yeah, but trust me. He’s easy to distract. Just tell him you saw Dreama, he’ll run off to find her. It’s how Matt and I avoid his little fits.” I suppose that was good advice but...it didn’t make me feel like wanting to ever run into this guy, ever.  “But enough about all that. You guys ready for that mixer. It’s the best thing of the year.”

“Kenny only likes it because of all the food . The food is good though but also there is a talent show amongst other things.” Matt informed us. “We’ll introduce you to some of our friends. Well, the normal ones. Some...some are a bit much to meet on day one. Maybe you’ll see my brother but..I doubt it.” Matt shrugged. “You guys seem really calm though. This school needs more people like that.  Seems every new person is more off than the next...maybe it’s finally time to get....non intense beings.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

Wicked Game (Chp 2)

Nick was lying in bed, wide  awake. He could hear Kenny and Matt listening to music, probably slow dancing and cuddling. That could be he and Dreama but no...she was difficult. He didn’t even get why he liked her so much. No. He loved her. He loved her deeply and he knew it was dangerous, especially when it was her . She drove so many people up the wall and yet, he loved her and he wouldn’t stop. He knew they could be something wonderful. He checked his pocket. She didn’t notice he took the wallet but he had it. This was his only way to get her to stop screwing around. She purposely would go after people in the brothel even invited him to watch her kiss someone else. Looking right at him. Knowing how much it hurt him. He was softer before but now....oh now he changed. He was meaner and he didn’t mean to be but it’s just what she did. She thought she could win. She always won. Always. But this time, she grew sloppy now. He knew why too. It was because of him. Sometimes she’d slip up and actually tell him how she felt and the very thought of him not adoring her seemed to irk her. He used to think it was a control thing but in those quiet times when it is just them and she is....when she’s her true self. The side of her she seemed to want to bury, he knew she cared. She was so scared of being seen as soft. She often explained it was due to being hurt before and she was trying to kill that side of her but the decent side of her was fighting back. That side couldn’t completely die anyway. Not with how she was to Matt and Jungle Boy. She was soft to them and to her best friend, Jenny she was her softest. She adored them without fault but when it came to Nick or anyone that wanted to love her, be with her, she grew cold , distant or in Anders' case, manipulated . To be fair he was obsessed with her and he drove himself mad over her along with being possessed. She was so scared to love except for one person.

They were all forbidden to even bring him up. He tore her heart apart and she loved him until he acted so fucking stupid, she couldn’t love him anymore. He hurt her the most and after him...she had been horrible to others or in the case of Dutch, she was willing to let go of the wrong person. He had other motives and he hurt her so in a way, Nick understood why she did what she did. Frankly he didn’t know how she let him live for so long after how sad she was over him. Him like her ex they didn’t name hurt her to her core and it was like she was never going to get better.

Then there was Adam, a very polite werewolf that lived in the town that liked her alot but also happened to be the cousin of Anders. He was so sweet to her and she liked him back but she never pursued him. Mostly because Matt warned him but also because she just didn’t want to hurt him and she knew if they were anything it wouldn’t just be her that might hurt him, Anders would and she didn’t want that to happen.

She spent most her time in and out of the brothel, sleeping with anything and everyone and Nick could tell it wore on her. He saw her at the dinner when Raj proposed to Jenny. It was so cute. Violin players, confetti....confetti that Jungle Boy ended up eating because he thought it would taste like strawberry because it was red....it didn't.  The whole restaurant looked over at them. Everyone clapped and saw how happy Jenny was. Nick saw how Dreama looked. She looked so happy but in her eyes, he could see how sad she was. She was almost crying with no tears whatsoever. He knew she sought that with her ex...even with Dutch....even Anders but it seemed that got taken from her over and over again. She was happy for her best friend, it was clear but she was also hurt. She went to the brothel later that night and Nick followed her, noting she left Jungle Boy at the restaurant but that’s only because Raj and Jenny said they’d get him home. Nick walked up to her in the brothel noting she wasn’t even asking to rent someone, just sitting at the bar. He wrapped his arms around her and she put her hand over his arm, patting it.  He rested his chin in her hair and it seemed she was happy he was there. He even got her to leave with him and they went to park for a bit before returning home. Jungle Boy wasn’t in yet and he didn’t want to leave her alone. She turned on the TV and he sat next to her and before he knew it she was fast asleep with him holding her on his lap. Jungle Boy eventually came in and saw them , made a note but didn’t say anything.

Deep down he knew it too. She adored Nick, she was just terrified and the fact Nick wouldn’t let go ticked her off as much as it scared her. He wanted her to finally  be happy. He hoped that he would give that to her. He’s the only one that hung on as he did. He was unsure how she’d be if he ever stopped.

He just knew it wouldn’t be good.

_____________________

“Hi Raj, Hi Jenny!”

“Hey Jungle Boy.” Jenny smiled at the man before her. He wasn’t really a boy. He was a man, a full ass man but no one ever addressed it. She could imagine he came over so she’d drive him to work. He actually worked. It wasn’t much; he just went to the zoo and helped with the animals. He could actually talk to them and understand them.  He came in every other day to make sure that the animals were well taken care of because if they weren’t....he’d know. There was a tiger trainer that was starving the tigers that he ended up feeding to the tigers when they told him what was going on. He was found in the jungle and for that reason he was very in touch with the animals . Jenny always assumed he was some type of mage. She knew he was an elf , but it wasn’t all he was. He was never sure what he was beyond being...just regular but maybe it was best he didn’t tap into further power. The way he was with Dreama, she’d have him committing who the hell knew what kind of crimes on her behalf and he’d do them just to make her happy. “You need me to bring you to the zoo?”

“No.” He shook his head. “I’m off today. I just wanted to hang out. Dreama left the house really early and wrote me a note that she’d be back later. She never gets up this early. I’m a bit concerned. Maybe she met a man or woman...it depends.”

“This early? It’s 9 am.”

“Maybe they offered her food. You know how she is over food.” He chuckled. “I mean if it’s a bad time, I get that.”

“No, that's fine. I do have some errands to do later if you don’t mind coming along.”

“I don’t. Maybe it would be good to get out and just do whatever....things are kind of tense at home.”

“Tense? Why?”

“Dreama’s just....I know she’ll be fine. I just....she’s not in the best of moods. I hope she didn’t leave the house to go and try to fight Nick or something.”

“Why would she fight him...more than usual?” 

“Nothing! You heard nothing.” Jungle Boy covered his mouth. “Forget I said anything.”

“Did something happen?”

“No! Why would you think something happened?  Nothing went on”

“Jack...”

“Don’t call me that!” Jungle Boy glared at Jenny. He wasn’t really mad at her, he was startled she’d call him by his name, He knew what that meant though. Especially if she did it. “Jenny...please.”

“What happened yesterday?”

“Nothing.” He slid into the house and Jenny closed the door behind him, leaning on it, her arms crossed. “Jenny...please...nothing happened. I’m sure Nick is okay.”

“Is there any reason to believe he’s in danger?”

“No.” Jungle Boy shook his head. Times like this he seemed like a child, rather than a grown man. How hse was almost trying to make himself seem small  as she was interrogating him. “I...nothing...”

“Will Nick be okay?”

“Yes.” He nodded his head. “He has all the cards in his hand now.” Jungle Boy said which was ominous as it got. “It’s her that I’m actually a bit more worried about.”

________________________

“Just tell me that you love me.” Nick held the wallet above Dreama. She wasn’t tall enough to get the wallet from him. She was foolish to walk away leaving the wallet out. Leaving Dutch’s wallet out. When she came back both Nick and the wallet were gone and she knew he had it. This was actually the worst thing that could have happened. 

“I can’t stand you and this REALLY makes me hate you. Matt and Kenny aren’t here so...”

“So what? You are going to try to murder me? You’d do that. Who would hold you if you did that?”

“I have tons of people who want to be with hme.”

“Too bad you don’t want to be with any of them. Admit it. You’ve grown sloppy with how you do things because you like me. You think of me all the time. I live in your head rent free because you refuse to admit how you feel. You tell everyone that will listen that you hate me but I know you don’t. Everyone knows you don’t. At this point you want to be with me so bad. It makes you look stupid.” He looked down at her and she had pure rage in her eyes. “Go ahead. Hurt me. I want to see if you’ll do it.”

“Just give me the wallet.”

“Why? So you can hide what you’ve done? Hmm Someone should tell Hosea. Suc ha sweet man and you murdered his friend over heartache. That’s pretty sad. Hosea thinks so highly of you too. Oh he’ll think differently.”

“Nick....”

“Just...say that you love me.” He told her, trying to wear her down. “And mean it.”

“Nick...”

“Tell me what you told me that time before you fell asleep on me. Tell me what you said to me two weeks ago. You know, after I came over and we ...... don’t make me say what we did. You looked at me and told me that you loved me.”

“I don’t love you, Nick.”

“You are a liar.” He put his arm down and looked at her. “Then if you don’t love me. I’ll be keeping this.”

“No. I need it back.”

“No you won’t. You got sloppy. That’s on you”

“Why are you like this?”

“Because I’m tired of this game. I love you. Why can’t you just admit it to me. Say it without all these games.”

“Nick...I...” She was starting to lose the fight and she was getting irritated. “Just give me the wallet.”

“No. You know what. I’ll make it easy. I’ll give you the wallet but if you take this, if   you choose this over me...don’t ever call me, count on me for anything again. Since you care about hiding your sins so much. You clearly care bout those more than me. If you take it. Whatever we are...it’s over. I’ll leave you alone.”

“You’ll never leave me alone.”

“Oh, I can. It’ll hurt like a bitch but....I can not keep up this game with you. I care for you enough to even hide your sins from people. It doesn’t need to be this way. I’m probably a step under Anders at this point. Doesn’t matter. Take it.” Nick put the wallet in her hands. “Walk away with it. You got what you wanted.”

“I...”

“Leave. It’s what you want.”

“Nick...I....” She looked away from him, holding the wallet in her hands. “I.....”

“Go. You don’t want to be near me.”

“You are going to hurt me in the long run, Nick . Everyone has.”

“I’m not everyone.” He told her. “Believe it or not. I’m different.” He looked down at her. “I just want to love you. I want to make you happy. I hate that you make me feel so gross but I can’t help it.”

“Nick...if...if I give my heart to you....”

“I won’t hurt you. I’ll do anything to make you happy. Even if you are an obnoxious , self centered brat most of the time. It’s what makes you, you.”

“You would say that.” She shook her head. “Here.” She gave him the wallet. “I...I’m not ready to have you out of my life.”

“More like you never want me out of it.”

“I didn’t say that.”

“You didn’t need to. Your actions said it all.”

___________________________________

“She what?!”

“Please, Jenny. He had it coming! I mean...technically I did it but.....”

“My father is going to be so upset that’s his best friend. Sure he wasn’t my favorite but I grew up with him around...did she....”

“She cleaned up the mess you know but then Nick found his hat and finished it up and just...he took the wallet from our house and she’s probably there fighting him for it.”

“Holy shit.” Jenny didn’t even know how to respond. Raj went to work and she was glad he did. She didn’t want him hearing about this.  “I....”

“I shouldn’t have said anything.”

“No, I made you tell me. I’m sorry. She...shit....shit shit shit. He’s supposed to be at the wedding. He was so excited to come. I...my father is going to wonder where he is. I don’t know what I’d tell him. He’d never buy him just being out of town on that day. He was one of the first people I invited.”

“I’m sorry, Jenny. I’m sorry I tossed a knife at him.” Jungle Boy started to sniffle. Now he felt bad. He was seeing the effects of what he had done and seeing Jenny tearing up made him feel like the worse person. “You should turn me in.”

“It’s not your fault.” Jenny told him. “Dreama told you to do it. You were following what she did.”

“But I should have told her no and I didn’t. I didn’t recognize him and I didn’t hesitate and now I’ve ruined your wedding.” He started to cry and Jenny went over to him, hugging him tightly. “I’m really sorry.”

“Jack....I think it’s time you separate yourself from her. Look at how bad you feel. When you are apart you are calm but with her there...”

“But she raised me. She’s my family.”

“I understand but look at how she has become. That’s not good for you.”

“I don’t want to leave her. I just....she needs me there. If I leave she’ll be alone.”

“She might need that to learn to be better.”

“No. You don’t understand.” He wiped his tears with his hand. “She’s all I’ve known. I can’t leave her. I won’t....she can get better. You’ll see. She’ll be better.”

“She’s had so many chances. This was low even for her. I know he broke her heart but people cared for him and she just took him out , out of rage. For some money? I don’t understand her and look at how you, the one person she claims to love more tha anything, she saddled you with making that shot. She could have done it but clearly she didn’t want that on her mind but had no issue letting you do it. That’s not okay. I know she loves you, I know she does, you are her world, the apple of her eye but you need to admit what she did was fucked up.”

“I......”

“We can’t get him back but what we can do is make sure she is accountable for all she’s done. I have.....I have to tell my father.”

“Jenny don’t! Please.”

“I have to. That's his best friend. I can’t....I can’t keep this to myself.”

“Please.” Jungle Boy begged at her. “Please...please don’t do this. She’s ... she’s all I have...please.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Please. Things can be fixed. It can be made better. Don’t do this.”

“I have to.” She patted his head. “I love her as much as you do but ... she needs to be confronted. This time she went too far. This time she’s going to have to deal with it.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

Wicked Game (Chp 1)

“This is really good.” Matt smiled at Raj. Raj was going to close his shop for the day but Matt came in, sad...again and he wouldn’t turn him away. Sure the sign said closed and he was cleaning while Matt was sitting there in his feelings. He sent Jenny, his fiance, a text explaining he might be late because Matt was there and she knew what that meant. Kenny made him sad .. usually by accident. Matt did get jealous slightly easily and sometimes he let his thoughts get the best of him.  “Thanks for at least letting me order. How much do I owe you?”

“It’s on the house, Matt.”

“Nah. I have money.” Matt reached in his pocket and gave Raj a 20 dollar bill. “Keep it. I know you wanted to get home. You and Jenny have a wedding to plan and I’m just here, taking up your time.”

“What even happened?” Raj asked taking the money and putting it in his pocket. He knew trying to make him keep it, just wouldn’t work. Matt could be very persuasive when he wanted to be.  Any little bit would help though. That wedding was costly and was becoming more than he thought but he wanted the best for her, for them. He knew her best friend, Dreama, an elven mage that lived outside of town was funneling as much money as she could to them. He always wondered how she was so wealthy. There were tons of rumors and seeing as she was, they could all be true or they could all be false.  No one really knew.  She lived there with Jungle Boy or Jack which was his actual name but if anyone called him that other than her, he attacked.  She had found him in the jungle when she was younger and legit kept him. He was like her unofficial child. She doted on him and she saw things he’d do and pretend she didn’t. She’d fight the police in town if they tried to take him away too. It was a lot going on.  “What did Kenny do?”

“I think it’s my fault for taking it wrong. I came home and his friend was there and I just...they were hugging and I got a bit jealous. I know it’s not like that but...I don’t know I get easily jealous. Yeah, they did used to date but Kenny said nothing is going on and I believe him but I’m so scared. Seeing as what happened between AJ and John...I kind of am terrified.”

“AJ and John are two separate people and AJ was kind of uh...loose.” Raj tried not to speak so low of AJ but he knew he was kind of...a whore. He didn’t hide it much either. He was the reason he and his fiance broke up and yet he would push the blame on John if anyone even asked. He blamed him so much that John moved out of the town to get away from him seeing as AJ tried to torch his house using magic. AJ got his magic revoked and now had to live like a normal elf, a common one. He wasn’t happy about it but it’s what had to happen.  “You guys aren’t them. You and Kenny have a healthy relationship and he’s so sweet to you. I know sometimes you get insecure but have you ever spoke to him about it?”

“I don’t want him to think that I’m stupid or whiny.”

“I don’t think he would. If anything, knowing him he’d want to reassure you things are fine.”

“I suppose so.” Matt smiled a tiny bit. “Thanks for this. The food and the talk I mean. Jenny is so lucky to have you. You are going to be a great husband to her. I can’t wait for the wedding.”

“Thank you.” Raj smiled at him. “Sometimes I wonder why she’d settle for me. Her father is a powerful mage and has a place by the King’s side and yet, she wants a guy with a restaurant that is trying to make ends meet and struggling to pay off the wedding on their own.”

“Stop that! She adores you. You are sweet to her and make her smile. You know you don’t need to pay for the wedding alone. She’d help, hell Dreama is helping.”

“But as the man...I want to make it perfect”

“Yes, but also as a man asking for help isn’t bad either.” Matt patted his hands “And you have all of us so if you need something, don’t you dare be scared to reach out or I’ll come down here and softly punch you in the arm.”

“Thanks Matt.” Raj laughed at him. “You know when you repeat it back to me, maybe asking for help wouldn’t make me less than.”

“Exactly. Besides, Dreama wouldn’t let you do it alone.”

“She isn’t. She comes by with so much money and I just want to know how she gets it..well sometimes I want to  but I feel like I’d get answers to questions I am not prepared to have answers.”

“It’s always best to not ask but I bet Jungle Boy helps her. He’s like her right hand. I’ve seen him rob an entire food cart before and the cops let it go because they don’t want to deal with her. I don’t understand how Solas doesn’t try to address her abusing whatever power she must have.”

“Solas has other things to do rather than deal with her”

“And I guess if no one’s dead....there is no harm.”

“I guess so.” Raj shrugged. “But...I do know tomorrow I’m going to get the flowers from the shop, we'll look for more. I know you like flowers a lot so....”

“Say less. I’ll be there!”

“Fantastic. I know Jenny had a list of ones she wanted but she said I could surprise her so I guess you can help me look for some that would fit the theme.”

“That’s excellent and tell you what, I’ll treat you to lunch as well. You’ve been really good to me so it’s my turn to be good to you.”

______________________________

“Go Jack.”

“Got it!” He leaped from behind her and tossed a knife into the neck of the man before him. He collapsed and he ran over and got the knife out of him then searched the body for any valuables pulling out a diamond necklace, and a wallet. Dreama walked in front of Jungle Boy and set fire to  the man in front of them. They watched the man turn to dust and she held her hand out, letting Jungle Boy place the wallet in her hand. 

“This ID and stuff we don’t need. Hmm.. looks like he was rich though. Look at this money. We keep half, give the rest to Raj.”

“Who travels with thousands on their person and a loose diamond necklace?”

“Someone who wants to seem impressive.” She shook her head. “Let’s head back home. We should get showered, and then head to town. We are eating good tonight.”

“I suppose so. What will you do with his ID and stuff.”

“Well the cards, I know a guy who can get us the information we need to put them in our accounts.”

“You always mention this guy but I’ve never met him. How do I know they are safe?”

“Trust me, if he turned on me...he has a family he loves...he knows what I’m capable of and I would no hesitate.” She shook her head “So you’ve nothing to worry about.” She patted his head. “The ID though, that will make for good firewood, well an addition to it. That man won’t be too missed.”

“You seem to have somewhat known him to stalk him as we did.”

“He was an ... old beau if you will.” She sighed as they got to the door. “I do feel bad for Hosea in this instance but he had to know...karma was coming for his best friend sooner or later. He’ll be sad but he could do better. Such a sweet man who hangs out with such trash humans...well not anymore at least.”

“Was that Dutch?” Jungle Boy asked, finally putting the dots together. “I didn’t even recognize him.”

“He let himself go after we broke up. If anything I did him a mercy.”

“I’d say so.” Jungle Boy agreed. “He had so much money on him though.”

“Money he didn’t earn legally. He’d never earned an honest dollar in his life. He clearly wanted to impress some whore at the brothel. He was always that way. So flashy outside but so empty inside. At least...I’ve gotten what he owes me and he...well....he got what he deserved.”

“I’m glad you let me get the killing blow then.”

“Of course. You got him with one throw too. I’m so proud of you.”

“Thank you.” He beamed at her. He only wanted to make her proud and she seemed proud of him every day. There was nothing he could ever do wrong in her eyes. She loved him with her whole heart, one of the few beings she loved with no hesitation. He was her family. Her only family and she’d do anything to protect him, especially when she’d do as she did. She let him help but if he was in danger, she’d immediately take over or she’d get more violent. She lied waste to a town before because some girl hurt his feelings. She wasn’t found out which is why she was allowed around town. No one knew what she did, what she was capable of except for a few people and those people wouldn’t dare tell.   She was much stronger than the town knew, than even Solas knew and he was in charge of most mages and elves in the area. He was aware of how strong most were, or their issues and helped them but her...she was a mystery even to him. She concealed her true intentions near him and for an Elven God you’d think he could figure it out but it seemed he never could.  In truth, taking out that town is how she got most of her money, how she got this house built. That she kept to the side for her and her adoptive son. They really didn’t need to do as they did but...she wanted to keep money flow and getting it by any means necessary was a mantra she seemed to live by.  “Do you want to shower first or me?” He asked once they got into the house and she locked the door. “I usually am faster.”

“You go first. I’m going to put our money in the safe.”

“Alright. Where do you think we are going to go eat tonight?”

“I’m thinking of one of the most ritzy restaurants in town. We are eating really good today, so dress your best.”

“Alright. Should we invite Nick?”

“No.” She crossed her arms. “He’s the last person I want to see.”

“That’s not what you said the other day when he was here and I came in and you were asleep on him. Well I guess you couldn't talk at the moment but...”

“Jack....we don’t talk about Nick okay. I can’t stand him.”

“But you talk about him all the time. Isn’t he your date to the wedding?”

“No. I told him I’d rather swallow glass. Besides, I’m taking you with me. Nick can go somewhere.”

“What if he asked someone else. You’d get so jealous.”

“No I wouldn’t! Go shower. We have places to be”

“You can be upset all you want....we all know you like him.  Jungle Boy went into the bathroom and Dreama was going to go online and look up  the hours of the place she wanted to go to and there was a knock on their door. She peeped into the peephole and it was Nick of all people. Maker, she didn’t want to see him. Not now, not tomorrow, not next week, not ever. She opened the door and he was smirking at her. That was never good.”

“You think you’d actually make sure every bit of Dutch was gone before leaving.” He commented pressing Dutch’s hat into her chest. “It would be bad if Hosea found out wouldn’t it?”

“Shit...”

“Shit indeed. You’ve become so messy with your crimes lately. I wonder why.” He allowed himself in and she was just stunned she’d leave his hat behind. She swore all of him caught fire...she swore ...how could she be careless. “Aren’t you happy to see me? To know I took care of your loose ends. If you went to prison, you’d miss the wedding but the way you scare the town, I doubt they’d even care. All you have to do is smile and every man in town is on your beck and call.” He shook his head. “Anyway, I wanted to ask if you wanted to go somewhere with me tonight.”

“Me and Jack have plans.”

“We can bring him. I don’t mind him.”

“It’s more like it’s me and him and I don’t need you there.”

“Oh? Well if I’m not with you. I guess ... oh is that his wallet.” Nick moved past Dreama and picked up Dutch’s wallet. “I guess I can give this to Hosea. Explain how someone he thinks is so sweet murdered his best friend for  breaking her heart. I’m sure he’ll understand.”

“Fuck you, Nick.”

“You know, I wouldn’t have to be like this to you if you’d just stop denying what you and I and everyone knows is true. You just like playing games and murder. I still think it’s funny that Solas didn’t figure out you destroyed that town. He’s not so good watching over elves as he thinks or he just thinks you are cute and doesn’t care what you do. RIP to all the men and women who find you cute because you are trouble. Like every song states talking about someone being trouble, that’s you.”

“But you like me.”

“I do but I’m just as troubled as you. It’s why you claim to despise me so much except for when no one is there and it’s just us. You love me and unlike you I’m not ashamed to admit it. I love you too.”

______________________________

“I’m sorry I’m late for our dinner date.” Raj came in and kissed his fiance sweetly. “I was...well I texted you.”

“I know, I got it.” Jenny smiled at him. “You don’t need to be sorry. I understood. I’m just glad you are here.”

“Something smells good. What were you cooking?”

“Well, I tried your grilled cheese recipe with the velveeta and I think...I might have done it justice.”

“Smells like you did.” Raj went to the tray in the kitchen and picked a sandwich up. It smelled good and it looked good too. She was truly improving. He took a bite into the sandwich and smiled widely. She did it perfectly. “Jenny! This is delicious. You did so well.”

“Are you sure you aren’t just saying that?”

“I’m not. It’s so good.” He went over to her bringing her the other half of the sandwich he started eating, holding it up to her so she can taste ehr handy work. As she took the bite, she smiled wide, just as he did. “See, it’s delicious.”

“Maybe I am getting better at cooking. I must have a great teacher.”

“Maybe you do.” He kissed her cheek. “I really wish I could have been here earlier. To be fair, I would have been if I didn’t walk Matt home. He asked me to and  I just wanted to make sure he was fine.”

“You don’t need to apologize..really.” Jenny patted his hands. “Is Matt okay at least?”

“Yeah. Kenny was waiting for him outside and they actually talked. Matt was being a bit insecure again but I think he’s slowly calming down. Kenny was throwing me ideas for where I want to go for my bachelor party. I almost don’t even want to have one. I’m not the partying type.”

“It’s your one last hurrah though. I know Dreama is beyond excited for the bachelorette party. Maybe it was a mistake to let her plot it. Maker knows what I’m going to see.”

“If you are lucky she’ll just get wasted at the brothel and you will be spared. You know she’s going to go to the brothel. It’s her favorite place to be.”

“I know. I asked her to please not go there for me and she considered it. We are taking Jungle Boy with us so I feel she’d not bring him in there at least. If he's there we will probably end up somewhere he wants to go, like somewhere in the woods hunting or something or playing on a rope swing in the lake. I just hope she doesn’t get into a fight because I remember when AJ and John were engaged, at AJ’s bachelor party she got into a fight with a girl at the restaurant and beat her into the ground then fought with the police for trying to stop her and then Solas actually got to her for once and she attacked him too. She’s been wild lately. Sometimes I think it’s because Dutch hurt her feelings....she told everyone she was fine with the break up but I don’t think she was.”

“I didn’t know she even truly liked him.”

“She did but he really broke her heart.”

“She doesn’t seem to admit to having emotions often.”

“She doesn’t unless it involves Matt or AJ or Jungleboy or anyone else she considers adorable. To other things it’s something else. I’m shocked she’s not going to try to go to the bachelor party. To make sure you are being good. I know you will be but you...you know how she is.”

“I think she actually trusts me. She told me many times I’m the only person of all of her friends that date people that she doesn’t want to murder....I took it as a compliment at the time.”

“I think it is.” Jenny shook her head. “I can’t believe that soon I am going to be Mrs. Rasoya. I’m so happy.”

“I hope that I can keep you so happy once we are married.”

“You’ve made me so happy thus far. I don’t think that would change.”

______________________________

“Nick, where were you?”

“Out.” Nick looked at his brother fairly annoyed. He didn’t like being asked where he was going, what he was doing, who was going to be there? He was a full ass grown ass adult. He didn’t need to be watched. He never asked him any of these things but then again, he didn’t really want to know what his brother was doing anyway.  He thought maybe it was because he was bitter lately. Bitter and hurt and heartbroken and a whole lot of other emotions he refused to fully admit he felt. He was jealous. Matt had Kenny and even though he was insecure most of the time, Kenny loved him dearly and publicly and didn’t pretend to dislike him or hurt his feelings just to do it. No, Kenny hugged him and kissed him and doted on him in public and in private. They were always cuddling or doing something cute and at first it didn’t bother Nick, not remotely but now as he was coming to terms with how he felt for Dreama and seeing as she was content on breaking him rather than even considering how he felt, he’d grown bitter to so many things. She had no idea how much she breaks his heart every time she says mean things to him but he doubted she cared. She could get anyone if she wanted and make them bend to her will. Hell he’s seen her do it multiple times and if she gets bored of you, you either disappear or end up in the asylum as was the fate of Adam’s cousin. Nick was sure he was also in the asylum because he tried to take out the entire town to impress her but ... that was still partially her fault though she didn’t ask him to do it, he just wanted attention.  Nick refused to be broken by her like that. He’s seen what she’s done to others and he could tell she wanted to break him as far, as hard as she could and he just wasn’t going to let her do that. He just wasn’t.  He loved her, that was true. He loved her madly but she was terrifying and dangerous. He almost wanted to tell Solas the things she’s done that he was well aware of , tell the town where their missing brothers, sons, sisters, daughters were going. That she entranced them and ruined them or worse. He wanted to but he could never do that to her. Even if he was held up and beaten he wouldn’t tell on her. He just felt so strong for her that way. “I didn’t come in to be interrogated.”

“You seem grumpy.” Kenny pointed out. “Want to talk about it?”

“Don’t you guys have things better to do like making out or being obnoxiously in love. Leave me alone.”

“Nick...”

“I’m going to my room. Don’t bother me.” Nick marched off upstairs leaving Kenny and Matt to wonder what was wrong with him. Matt usually followed after Nick but lately it seemed Nick was getting very......he didn’t want to bother him. He wanted to be alone; he'd let him.

“I think Dreama hurt him.” Kenny sighed. “She gives him such mixed messages. She likes him, then she hates him, then she likes him, then she hates him. That’s not healthy or normal.”

“I know she’s been hurt before but now...she just hurts everyone else. I should talk to her. I think she’s great to me and a few others but...she can’t be hurting my brother like this.”

“Nick will be upset if you spoke to her.”

“I understand but I worry about how he will be if I don’t. She needs to be spoken to and everyone is too damn scared to talk to her about things she’s done. I’m not. She might not even take me seriously but I have to say something.”

“Do you want me to go with you?”

“No. I think I need to do it alone.” Matt sighed. “I’ll go over there tomorrow. I just...I’m tired of seeing my brother so hurt like this. He won’t admit it because he tends to hate showing emotions but I know he’s hurting. He just wants to hold her and hug her. He didn’t tell me that. I read his journal once. I stopped after a while because of that entry...yikes. I couldn’t look at him for days when I accidentally peaked further. Point is I know he loves her and he thinks she loves him, he seems so sure but I don’t think she loves anyone truthfully outside of me or Jenny or Jungle Boy. I just....I don’t want him hurt but it seems he’s already at that point.”

“Doesn’t she like Adam though?”

“Yes, but he doesn’t talk to her as much. I told him not to. He’s a gentle soul and unlike my brother she could do real damage to him and she dated his psychotic cousin. He’d be in danger on all fronts if they became anything.”

“I see what you mean.” Kenny nodded his head. “Well if you do confront her...please be on guard. She is unpredictable.”

“I know that but I also know she’d never hurt me. I have to ask why Jungle Boy doesn’t say anything but I think he’s obsessed with being the apple of her eye, he agrees with most things she does. He did have a girlfriend you know”

“He did? What...what happened?”

“Dreama didn’t like her. That’s what happened.”

“I....”

“You don’t want to know more. Just know she didn’t approve and he willingly gave her up for her. He just wants to be the best person in her life, her baby, her son, her most precious. She did raise him and I get that. She is like a mother to him but he....have you ever spoken to him alone without her? He’s quite normal. Yes sometimes he gets into fights easily and doesn’t know how to react when confronted but he is actually very sweet deep down but he’d never leave her. It’s a bit messed up. I want to help him but he doesn’t want to be saved. He attacked me when I suggested that maybe she isn’t the best person for him to be around.”

“That’s...awful. I have to ask how Jenny and her are best friends when Dreama is...like this.”

“She hides it from her but I think Jenny can tell the cracks are showing more. I worry about how she will be at the wedding.”

“I don’t think she’d ruin her best friend's wedding.”

“You want to think that but she is crazy unpredictable at this point we can just hope for the best.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

What Is It With You? (Short Story)

I knew she was mad and she was operating on hurt, I knew that. I know right now all that went on was alot for her, particularly because this was someone she just loved, adored for so long and finally seeing him for what he is....it was a lot. Of course she was upset, she was hurt. I understood it. She was pissed, she was betrayed but...she didn’t have to shove me away. Matt wasn’t the only person hurt. I know she cared for him above most things, except maybe a few , but she just...I always felt that she had it out for me. Like she never liked me. Jenny told me that it wasn’t that and sometimes she was a bit mean but, I didn’t think that was true. She was mean to Nick...in a flirty way, I swore. She was mean to me in an angry way. Like I disgusted her completely. 

I wanted to check on Matt to make sure he was okay and she shoved me aside and pushed me out of the locker room. She told me to leave and not bother him. That he’s been through enough as if I was the one who hurt him. As if I’d ever hit him. She threw an ice pack at me for my arm and told me to screw off before probably going back to fussing over Matt. I was in the hallway more like in a daze of what the fuck even happened. Everything was such a blur. I went into my locker room and Jenny was there. I know she heard the commotion and separated herself from the situation as fast as she could and I didn’t blame her. It was a fucking mess. Our only saving grace was that Adam wasn’t there because Matt getting hit was one thing, but if it was Adam, she’d flat out have gone to jail. There would be a body bag on the premises. He was lucky in that aspect. 

I went to Jenny and she got up and hugged me, which I needed. Again, so much happened. I was hurt, pissed, nothing positive whatsoever. 

“Kenny, your arm...”

“Don’t worry. I’m sure I’ll be fine. Punk’s friend bit me. I don’t think it’s anything to worry about.”

“Getting bitten by humans can be dangerous, Kenny. Bacteria and all that. We should take you to the doctor or something.”

“I...yeah.”

“Kenny...are you okay? I mean well..obviously not but...”

“Dreama hates me and she proved it today. I was going to check on Matt because Punk hit him in the face and she tossed me out of the locker room.”

“Wait..why?”

“I don’t know? Probably because I was existing. She hates my face. Who knows with her. You said it yourself, sometimes she just hates people just because and I’m one of those people.”

“No. I...I don’t think that’s it.”

“What else could it be? I almost feel stupid even wondering about that when I got bit by a grown ass man. Let’s just go to the doctor. I guess I’ll text Matt in the morning.”

“Do you want me to talk to Dreama?”

“No. There is no point. If anything, it'll only make her dislike me more.”

____________________________

“Oh, has anyone seen Kenny?” Matt asked once we had gotten to the hotel. I didn’t even trust Dreama to tell my brother the truth. How she threw him out and told him to screw off. She thought no one saw her but I did. Saw her and heard her. I felt she should just accept what it was. My brother liked Kenny. He liked him alot and she seemed to hate it. I feel it’s because she cared for him so much. She didn’t want him hurt but also...a lot to do with things that went on with AJ. She refused to see him go on that same path though my brother and AJ were two very VERY different people.  She was ruthless to him and I texted him just to check on him and he seemed really hurt. She was never really nice to Kenny either.  I swore it was because Matt liked him. She just didn’t want to think of them being anything in case he hurt Matt or if Matt lost his shit like AJ did which he’d never do. “I was really worried. He got bit in the arm.”

“He’s fine.” Dreama told him. “He went to get it checked out then went with Jenny to the hotel.”

“Oh... I hope he’ll be okay.”

“He’ll be fine, Matt.” Dreama told him, patting his face. She always treated him like a child despite him being older than us both actually. He didn’t seem to mind it. She’d brush his hair for him and tell him how cute he is and help him pick out clothes and stuff. She adored my brother, she always did but also that adoration made her very...protective. Tonight showcased that in spades.  “I think you need to rest.”

“Yeah, tonight was quite long.”

“You want me to get you something from the store or something?”

“No thanks. I think I’m going to take a nice bath then I’m going to bed. Tonight was...eventful.”

“Oh, alright. Well feel better.” She smiled at him before kissing his forehead. I rolled my eyes. Shit like this used to make me quite jealous but now I just pity him at this point. He lets her do this. He lets her treat him this way and revels in it. I didn’t understand why. I didn’t want to eiter. Hell half the time I didn’t even want to be around her. At least it’s what I Told myself. Kenny and Jenny and well Adam knew the truth. I felt bad for Adam as he did like her so much I almost wanted to ask him why seeing as she was so...herself.  I understood why I liked her, but him...then again...maybe he saw what I did. Poor guy. “Nick, we should give Matt time to rest. I am a bit hungry. I saw a  Tim Horton’s...”

“And...you want me to buy you food?”

“Yes.”

“Well if you say please. I might.”

“Nick.”

“Manners will get you far.”

“Nick...”

“Do it. You brat.”

“Fuck you.”

“You’d like that.” I stuck my tongue out at her and she glared at me. If only they knew....if only they knew. “Fine, let’s give Matt time to rest. If you need us, you can text us.” I told him as he climbed onto the bed. “Are you sure you’ll be fine?”

“Yeah.” Matt nodded his head. “You two have fun.” 

“We will. Feel better.”

“I’m going to try to be.”

_________________________

“Matt, left me a text.” Kenny showed me his phone. “He just wanted to know how I’m doing, if I’m feeling better. I asked what he’s doing and he said Dreama and Nick went to Tim Horton’s. Surprised she didn’t want to stay and baby him. I guess climbing on Nick is more important.” Kenny said almost in a bitter tone. I know he was mad at her and I didn’t blame him. Not at all. She was my best friend and I knew how she tended to be. Nick and I once discussed why she was mean to him and it made sense but still. Matt was an adult. Point blank period. She couldn’t just run his life though it seemed sometimes he let her just do whatever. “That was quite rude.” Kenny shook his head. “Poor Adam though. He likes her. She likes Nick, Nick likes her. So does Adam. I almost want to know why.”

“Oh guys always seem to flock to her. That’s not new.”

“She’s very...something. I don’t want to speak bad of her, but I just...Iknow Adam thinks she’s so great and Nick adores her and I just....and I know she’s your bestie and Matt likes her too but she is so...”

“No..I get it. Hey, if she and Nick are out, you should go to the hotel. Go see him. He clearly seems to have wanted to see you.”

“And risk her coming back and seeing me. Ace Steel biting me won’t be the worst thing to happen to me tonight.”

“She wouldn’t bite you.”

“How do you know?”

“She just wouldn’t. Tell you what I’ll go with you. You’d be surprised how she’ll act if I’m there. She tends to act a bit better if I’m there.”

“Are you sure? I don’t want her mad at you for hanging out with me.”

“She won’t be. Trust me. If she tries to be...I can handle her.”

“You seem so confident.”

“I’ve known her for some time...trust me...her little threats and what not don’t bother me.”

______________________________________

“Oh? Kenny. Jenny. I didn’t expect you guys.” Matt opened the door. Dreama and Nick were nowhere to be seen whatsoever  so the hopes of her not coming in were kind of high. She tended to get sidetracked whenever she and him went out and they disappeared for hours on end doing who knows what. She often told me she couldn’t stand him but I’ve seen them hold hands before and backstage they tend to act liek a couple, they just get mad at each other a lot, mostly her at him and him egging her on. Adam had no idea where he stood with her and as much as I hated to tell him, she probably has something going on with Nick. Adam was so sweet and well meaning and that was his issue. She tended to prefer people who ticked her off and Nick was just that. I was hoping she’d not come in for once. I wanted Kenny and Matt to actually get to talk and if she came in, she’d do everything to prevent it. “I didn’t mean you should come over tonight. I meant tomorrow once it’s not so late.”

“Well I brought some donuts and stuff. Help you feel better.” Kenny smiled at him and I saw Matt blush a little bit. “May we come in?”

“Oh..yeah sure.” Matt moved out the way letting us in. I sat my bag down and opted to sit in the chair by the door and Kenny put the box of donuts on the bed and placed the drinks on the table. “So Nick and Dreama haven’t come back?”

“No. Probably making out in Tim Horton’s in front of everyone.” Matt shook his head. “Or something else alarming. “ He sighed. “In truth I’m kind of happy they left. I think Dreama needs time to cool down. She’s very mad and I understand it, I do but she is just...I’m glad Punk left before us because she was just...it wasn’t okay. I hope Nick is keeping her calm. I know they claim to hate each other but I think , more like I know they REALLY like each other. Despite how much she likes Adam, I think Nick makes her happy. They kiss from time to time.”

“Do they?” Kenny looked at him. “But I thought she really liked Adam.”

“She does but she really likes Nick too. It’s complicated.” Matt sighed as he went to get a donut and took a bite out of it. “These are really good.”

“I got them from Tim Horton’s down the block.”

“You did? And you didn’t see them? That’s where they said they were going. I guess they went elsewhere.”

“Probably saw a late night strip mall or something and went shopping.”

“Probably” Matt chuckled. “Kenny, are you okay? I saw a little of what happened. Ace bit your arm...that’s ridiculous. The whole night was. Me getting hit and Punk throwing a chair at Nick and then you getting bitten. I can imagine the repercussions are going to be heavy. I just wish it didn’t happen but he’s the one that wanted to talk and we were going to talk and he just...what a piece of shit and what a shitty situation.”

“It really is.” Kenny shook his head “But I’m sure we will be fine. After all, we didn't start that fight. Hell we barely escalated it. After awhile it was just defense and everyone that saw it would tell people that. I just the more I think of it, the more I just....it was so unnecessary. I have to ask how Dreama could tolerate him like she did.”

“It seemed she started to really dislike him as time went on. He broke her heart pretty badly and I think it messed with her more than she likes to talk about it.”

“I suppose so.”

“I just hope she’s okay. You didn’t see her when we left. She was beyond mad. She almost punched Christian for checking on her. He was just wondering if she was okay and she was ready to go for blood. I almost feel bad for inviting her to the ppv. I know she wanted to come but...”

“That’s not your fault.” I said. “No one knew Punk would be such a dick. I mean he was always one but we never expected all that. I’m sure she had fun...up until then...like you said she’s out with Nick, she’s probably unwinding and calming down or....tossing Nick in the river. Whichever comes first.” 

“Yeah there is a lake not far from here.” Kenny pointed out. “You sure letting him hang out with her alone is wise, especially when she’s mad?” He looked over at Matt who shrugged. “Well, I’m sure he can handle himself.”

“He can.” Matt said as he grabbed another donut. “You guys should stay over. It was a rough night, I’d like to be among my friends and what not for the evening if I’m honest.”

“Well I...”

“That would be perfect.” I cut Kenny off. Dreama would just have to deal now.  “It would be good for us to all be together. It was rough as you said.”

“I just hope Dreama and Nick actually come in tonight. I really want to know what they are doing but part of me just doesn’t want to know. Not remotely.”

“Let’s just hope it’s not illegal.”

“Even if it is, I’m sure she’d find a way to get out of it...Nick...I’m not too sure.”

________________________________

“This lemonade is bitter...just like you.” I commented as  I handed the cup back to Dreama. We ended up in the park after going to Tim Horton’s just hanging out. It was nice.  She was calming down and I almost wanted to talk to her about the obvious elephant in the room, about why she’s mean to Kenny. I wanted her to admit it.  I was willing to risk our rare calm moments just to get to the bottom of that issue. 

“It’s good though.”

“I didn’t say I didn’t like it. It is good, it’s just bitter. Like you.” I tapped her nose and she wrinkled it at me. Sometimes she was kind of very cute. Sometimes I felt myself growing more attached to her. Sometimes.

Most Times.

“You seem calmed down now. I hope so at least.”

“I just needed to walk around it seems.” She sipped lemonade. “It was wild tonight.”

“It sure was and you...you were quite mean to Kenny. I saw you shove him out...”

“Nick....”

“I know you have never been nice to him but that was just.. I think I know why you did it. You worry for my brother but I am here to tell you my big brother is a big boy and he can handle himself. I know you want to protect him, I get that but....he likes Kenny and trying to keep Kenny away is not it. I’m just saying. One day Kenny is going to tell him how mean you are to him and Matt will be upset.”

“It’s to protect him.”

“From what? Kenny or from him becoming a ho?”

“Both.” She crossed her arms. “Kenny is nice, Jenny adores him. He seems great but I don’t want Matt to get hurt. Frankly I don’t want anyone getting hurt around me anymore. I feel bad enough for Adam as is because he likes me so much and he’s so sweet and I know damn well I’ll just hurt him.”

“Do you even want to go out with him?”

“I did. I really did. He’s such a sweetheart...but...”

“But what?”

“I don’t know. I guess some asshole got in the way.” She looked up at me. “It’s obvious as is, isn’t it?”

“I suppose.” I told her a bit surprised she somewhat told me she liked me like that. “I guess I’ll tell him your choice unless you want to.”

“I think I will though I think he suspected it. He asked me many times about it and I just...he’s such a sweetheart.”

“And I’m not?”

“You are a menace.” She shook her head “But...really caring for your brother. I.. get what you are saying. I do. Kenny doesn’t seem horrible, I just...am scared. AJ got his heart broken once and he went on a slut binge.”

“Luckily Matt isn’t AJ.”

“He isn’t but...”

“Tell you what , if Kenny hurts him in any way, I’ll let you beat him instead of me doing it.”

“Okay.” She smiled at me and leaned against my shoulder. This shockingly went better than I thought it would. I took the lemonade from her and sipped it before making a face.

“It’s still bitter.” I told her. “But I guess...I just like bitter things.”

______________________

It was going on 4 am and Dreama and Nick weren’t back. Matt had fallen asleep leaning on Kenny who had his arm wrapped around him, lying on the bed. They were truly so cute. Matt had the smallest subtle smile on his face, seeming just so comfortable with him. Kenny was nodding off and frankly so was I in the chair when the door finally opened. In came Nick and Dreama, holding hands. Oh, well...I guess..something went on.

“Hey Jenny.” Nick looked over at me. “Oh, they are sleeping?” He said immediately lowering his voice. Kenny was still semi awake but Matt was out cold. “Nice of you two to visit.”

“Aw..he’s holding him.” Dreama said as she looked at the bed “That...is kind of very cute.” She commented before looking at me. “Hey Jenny.”

“Hello.” I waved at them both. “So..what is going on over here. Hands being held and all.”

“Oh...that.” Dreama turned bright red. “Well...”

“I made this brat my girlfriend.” Nick said and she looked like she wanted to punch him in the face. “Oh come on, you were so lovey to me in the park. Kissing me and what not. You are still a brat though.” He teased her. “We had a long talk though. I think...she’ll be a bit calmer.”

“Yeah?”

“A little. I guess if Matt is happy.. I mean look at him...he’s so cuddled on him...I can’t be mad. Kenny just...better not hurt him.”

“I doubt he would.” I looked at her. “But I do think you should apologize to Kenny.”

“Right..I...”

“You  know she doesn’t say sorry.” Nick shook his head. “But I’ll make sure she does.”

“How?” I asked...a tiny bit curious.”

“Don’t worry...I have my ways.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

Trouble A Deux (Short Story)

She’s crazy. Boss doesn’t want to see it but I did. I’m in jail because of her.  She leveled a brothel. Heard word that Dutch happened to talk to one of them girls and she lost her mind. I thought I was a loose cannon, I prided myself on it but she...was something else. She operated on the fact she liked Dutch so damn much, she was willing to kill over it. I never felt like that bout no bitch. Ain’t no woman gonna make me wanna murder when I can just fuck someone else but she...Dutch...she’d murder every woman in camp if it meant he’d stop his random flirting. Almost wanted to see her do it and try to keep it from that old man. He’s a smart man. He’d know. He had a girlfriend and I fully believe she killed her outside of Valentine. Led her off one day and she returned but his girlfriend didn’t. Said that she ran off to Saint Denis or some shit. Boss was pretty sad but I can tell this woman murdered her and left her body to rot. She was obsessed with him. So long as I’d been in this gang, I knew she adored him and any woman...ANY that even breathed near him...she lost her mind about it. She hated me, but she also tended to inform me of her obsession with him. Probably thought I didn’t care...and I didn’t. She just liked to talk and blab and threaten to level every woman she saw. It was...wild even to me and I had no morals. Now because of her, I was in jail because she ran the fuck off after completely destroying that brothel. Every woman in there was dead. There were no survivors. I had to admit it was impressive she did that on her own and without a gun. She used a knife. A hunting knife she stole from Charles. A knife and her brute force.  That...that made me pause certainly. All this...over the Boss. I’d run if I were him. But I’m not him and oh, am I glad.

Back at the camp/Arthur’s pov

“Micah leveled a brothel. I came back soon as I could because I had to run but he was caught.” Dreama was putting on a show and I was not sure who bought it, except for Dutch. Hosea was even slowly becoming more aware of how she might be. Since Molly went missing...he started to take note. Most everyone knew she loved Dutch so much....but to the extent. I only knew because I overheard her talking to Micah of all people at the lake. I’m sure he wasn’t paying attention but she didn’t want that, she was more like talking at him because she had too many emotions. Way too many. Especially when it came to Dutch. “He’s in jail.”

“Why did he shoot up a brothel?” Dutch asked her. “Why did you go with him?”

“Some girl turned him down. I don’t know . You know how he gets. I was trying to stop him but Micah Bell don’t see reason.”

“That doesn’t answer why you went with him”

“I was just there to get drunk. Maybe talk to randoms. Listen, he’s in jail, you might wanna send Arthur or someone to go get him.”

“Uh..okay.” Dutch looked over at me and I already knew I’d have to get him. “Arthur...”

“I’ll get him. Dreama, you want to come with me?” I asked her and she glared at me as if I was interrupting her time with Dutch. It wasn’t as much personal time as it was him talking to her and her enamored with him.

“No.” She told me. “I’m fine here.”

“I bet but I might need directions to this brothel.”

“You’ve been there. It’s the one in Strawberry.”

“She might be traumatized.” Dutch said. “Seeing as she thought she was gonna get drinks and then a bunch of women got killed. Let her stay here.”

“Yes, let me stay here,” Dreama said, clinging to Dutch. This was terrifying. I almost didn’t want to leave. Who knows what could happen? Maybe Miss Grimshaw will get too close or Abigail might compliment him or Karen might ask him how he is and she’ll just lose her shit. I’d like to think with Hosea around she wouldn’t but seeing her right now, him being here might not mean shit. I went up to my horse and got on her. I couldn’t believe it but I couldn’t wait to see Micah. I had questions to ask and he had no reason to lie.

A few hours on the way back to camp

“So she killed all of them?”

“Every single woman in there is dead. You saw that carnage, Morgan. She did that with a hunting knife. All because Dutch spoke to one. The girl s fucky in the head. It would be hot if it didn’t mean I’d wake up with my cock shoved in my asshole.”

“Uh..”

“I can guess she’s at camp just following him around. He got no idea she killed Miss O'Shea''

“There is no proof.”

“It’s obvious. They went out and only she came back. If I were Dutch, I’d not fuck her. She seems like if he isn’t how she wants him to be she will murder him and we don’t need that.”

“You know, you say alot of dumb shit but that there might be the smartest thing you ever said. He shouldn’t give even half a thought to it but I worry if he ignores her if she’ll still harm him.”

“Should leave her somewhere but with how she is, she’d find us and kill all of us save for that old man.”

“You know she really gotta be fucking up because you are making alot of sense. I don’t like that.” I admitted. Micah Bell was making fucking sense and that’s a problem. We finally approached the camp and it was eerily quiet. I was instantly in a panic. What if she actually did kill everyone? It was possible. Very much so after seeing that brothel. Micah and I hitched up our horses and walked more into camp. Everyone seemed to be out, except Dreama who was sitting at the fire with Dutch. It didn’t smell like fire or blood but still..that was suspicious.

“Oh Arthur. You just missed it. Everyone went down to Saint Denis to see one of those shows.”

“Did they?” I arched my eyebrow. “Why are y’all still here?”

“Oh, she didn’t want to go. Was a bit shaken up from earlier.” Dutch looked over at her and she turned red. “Mr. Bell...whatever your reason for clearing out an entire brothel, I’ll leave to you but try not to terrify the girl. She’s been so upset.”

“Oh, I bet” Micah rolled his eyes. “So so upset. Hey, Dreama...you still got your knife on you?” Micah asked and I was curious to where he was going with that. “I need to borrow it for something if you’d be so kind”

“I...lost it.”

“Oh? Well lucky for you, I found it.” Micah pulled it out his pocket and gave it to her. “Found it buried in some poor girl's neck.”

“That’s a hunting knife,” Dutch pointed out. “Looks like Charles.”

“It is his. You see them engravings. She stole it.”

“Micah, now I know you are mad you got caught but don’t go saying she’d steal from others. Haven’t you traumatized her enough?”

“You think so low of me, Dutch? After all the good I’ve done for you. She’s fucked in the head, Dutch.”

“No I’m not.” She grabbed the handle of the knife. “Take that back.”

“Or what? You gon stab me like you did them whores? Go ahead!”

“Micah!”

“Do it! Stab me!” He told her and she did just that, burying the knife in his side. I was horrified that she did it without even flinching. I don’t think he was  going to die.....which sucked but she showed her true self to Dutch and I think in a way it’s what Micah wanted. He knew she wouldn’t murder him in front of him, no but he knew he could egg her on to harm him and he did. She pulled the knife out and he was bleeding and laughing. I felt like I was losing my mind watching this.  I looked at Dutch and he looked like he didn’t even register what happened. 

“Don’t just stand there, we gotta stop the bleeding” Dutch told me and it snapped me out the daze. He and I found some stuff to stop the bleeding while she was standing there, holding the knife, paralyzed in her actions. “Can you tend to him for me? I think she and I need to have a talk.”

“Be careful, Dutch.”

“I don’t think it’s me that you should be worried about.”

[xihaveaplanxx]

Like You. (Short Story)

“Did getting married to Arthur help you forget me? Can you pretend we were never together now? That you don’t still love me? When you look at him, I bet you wish it were me.”

“Fuck you, Dutch.”

“Again? Why you just got married, Mrs. Morgan.” He said that with such disdain. His heart would be broken if he didn’t feel she only did it to spite him. Sure she liked Arthur, but...he was not him. Everyone detested him, his own best friend didn’t want them together but he knew damn well they belonged together and her at his front door told him that. He knew his best friend preferred her with Arthur and she’d do anything to make him happy as she adored him but this, she just made this worse than it had to be. She was going to tear Arthur’s heart apart and disappoint Hosea and his daughter who is her best friend, though he doubted Jenny was surprised. She knew her friend. She was probably more worried for her brother than for Dreama in all this. “You have a husband to do that for you.”

“You know, I hate you.”

“Then why are you at my house?”

“I....”

“You miss me. I know you do.”

“I don’t.”

“You do.” He shook his head “But you are Arthur’s wife now. Clearly ever so moved on from me.”

“He’s a better man to me than you ever were.”

“Oh, I’m sure he is. It’s why you are over here at midnight. So suspicious to be at your ex's house at midnight just to tell him he’s a piece of shit. It’s quite something. You know if I was so interested in getting lied to and manipulated, I might as well have fucked Micah and to be honest you aren’t much different than him. You are just an attractive version of him.” He knew this would tick her off. Even suggesting she was anything like that man disgusted her but it wasn’t wrong. They were very alike and everyone saw it but not many people admitted it...at least to her face. “One can say I was just sleeping with a female Micah.”

“Take that back.”

“Why? It’s true. It doesn’t matter, you are with Arthur now. I hope you are so happy.” Dutch shook his head. “Arthur won’t be happy with you creeping around to me. You wrecked our friendship for no reason other than to do it.”

“I didn’t mean to.”

“Sure you did.” He crossed his arms. “But... I am tired. I’m heading to bed.” Dutch grabbed the door knob. “Goodnight.” He went inside and tried to close the door but she stopped him. “What is it?”

“Dutch...”

“Tell me you miss me.” He told her. “Just admit it.”

“I don’t want to hurt Arthur...he’s so sweet to me.”

“But he is not me.”

“No. But Hosea and Jenny will be mad. I really do like Arthur, I do and I thought I knew what I wanted but I just....”

“You knew what they wanted. Not yourself.” He shook his head. “Now look at the web you’ve wove. How will you get out of it?”

“I don’t know. I just...I just don’t know what I want.”

“Yes you do. You just refuse to say it.”

The next day at Jenny’s apartment

“You went to see Dutch didn’t you?”

“What?”

“I can tell. You seem so...sad. Look, I know me and my dad wanted you and Arthur together alot and I thought you guys were cute...but...I’m not dumb...neither is Arthur....we both know how you feel for Dutch. I think my dad’s in denial. I’ve told him you two belong together really. You'll always find your way back.” Jenny sighed “I just wish you didn’t have to harm my brother to get to that point. Breaking his heart and shit.”

“I feel bad.”

“Not bad enough to have told him the truth when he proposed and before planning an entire wedding.”

“I’m sorry.”

“You aren’t. You know he and Dutch were close, you destroyed their friendship and to spite who? I don’t even know. I love you like a sister but you are a mess. Very much so. You are going to tear Arthur’s heart apart. All he ever did was care for you. He always did and you...”

“He shouldn’t have ever asked me out if he knew the whole time how I felt”

“You didn’t have to say yes.” Jenny was growing angry. Dreama Was her best friend yes, but Arthur was her big brother. She knew him her whole life. This was different. “You could have just turned him down. You can try and push this on me and my dad but you could have, should have said no.”

“Arthur knew what he was getting into.”

“And you could have just let him down and he would still have his friend and not be getting his heart torn out. I hope if you leave my brother you just stay with Dutch. That you stop fucking around and you two just stay together. I can not take the bullshit not only you do, but so does he. Running around with Molly trying to pretend he doesn’t miss you. She’s such a sweet girl but he don’t love her just like you don’t love Arthur. You two love each other and keep playing games. I don’t know why. You both know better. Just be together. I just don’t understand why you both prefer to not be.”

“He’s talking to Molly?”

“You married my brother. You are both in the wrong and need to cut it out.”

“Jenny...I....”

“No. You two need to just stay together or leave each other alone for good and I know it won’t be the latter so both of you swallow your pride and accept you love each other more than anything. He’ll never love anyone except you it seems and I thought you’d never care for someone as much as Anders but Dutch exists and I know since Anders is not coming back, he’s got your heart. Accept that.” 

“I....”

“I’m saying it because I care for you and my brother. You want to be with Dutch. You need to go be with him.”

“Does Arthur expect this, completely?”

“We talked last night while you were out at midnight. He figured you went to talk to Dutch. He is sad, but..he understands.”

“I didn’t mean to hurt him.”

“No, but you did...you have to live with that. I know he’ll forgive you.”

“He shouldn’t.”

“No, but he will. Hopefully you don’t waste all of this by continuing to screw around.”

At the house a few hours later

“I’m not surprised. You two are both kinda messed up so I see why y’all like each other.”

“I didn’t mean to hurt you, Arthur. For what it’s worth. The past two weeks of being your wife, I’ve had so much fun. You are such a sweetheart and you’d make any woman so happy...you made me happy...it’s just...”

“I get it.” He frowned. He’d be lying to himself if he didn’t accept his heart was a bit broken but he wasn’t surprised, not remotely. In a way he was surprised they made it this far. A feat in itself.  “I’m sorry.”

“For what? This isn’t your fault.”

“I’m sorry that I’m going to miss you and you are gonna feel guilty. I should have just not asked you out but I thought things would be different. Maybe.”

“No, I led you on...I hurt you.”

“Did you ever even like me? Truly?”

“I love you, Arthur.” She told him. “But just...not in the way you’d have liked.” She started to tear. Most people whose hearts she broke, she was never too upset but Arthur, it broke her heart to break his heart.  “You are such a fantastic man. I wish I could have been that woman for you.”

“But you’ll make Dutch super happy, at least.” Arthur told her. “And I hope you two will be happy. He loves you something fierce.”

“I hope you’ll be happy too, Arthur. I truly do.”

“Thank you.” He wrapped his arms around her, holding her close to him. “This is the most amicable divorce I ever seen. Most divorces end with someone getting a shoe tossed at em or somethin.” He joked and she laughed  a bit which made him happy. He didn’t want her all broken up. He wanted her to know he was hurt sure...but he wasn’t completely mad and he definitely wasn’t going to hate her.  “We aren’t fully divorced yet, til I sign the paper so I want to ask one thing?”

“What?”

“May I kiss you...one more time?” Arthur asked and she couldn’t just tell him no. She nodded her head and he pulled her close and kissed her gently before pushing his forehead against hers. “I love you so much. I truly hope things work for you.”

“Thank you, Arthur.” She moved and kissed his forehead. “I hope that things work out for you too”

A week later at Dutch’s house

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you exhibit guilt.” Dutch commented. Dreama moved in and she spent her time in her own room. They barely even spoke. To be fair he was about the same. This was rough this time on them both. They both hurt people who really REALLY cared for them just to end up back together. Dutch didn’t feel too bad if he was honest but Dreama was incredibly broken up about this. She went to sign the papers days ago and came back so sad. He felt bad but at the same time this could have been avoided. “You feel real bad huh?”

“He’s such a sweet man and I hurt him and despite it all...he still loves me. That’s such bullshit. He deserves the world.”

“He is a good man, he is.” Dutch agreed, “But you can’t beat yourself up forever.”

“I want to. Were you really worth hurting Arthur over?”

“Would you be happier with Arthur than with me?” Dutch asked her wondering if she actually did fall for him. His heart threatened to crack at the very idea of it. “Would you rather be with Arthur?” He asked her.  He wrapped himself around her, holding her, resting his head on her chest. He  didn’t want to cry and if he did, he damn sure didn't want her to see it. 

“No.” She told him, wrapping her arms around him. “I just wish I never hurt him.” She admitted. “You do make me happy, though I can’t stand you most times.”

“We always find ourselves together though.”

“We do. I just hope we stop hurting others...I just...don’t like this feeling.”

“That feeling is guilt. It’s about time you learned it.”