Part 1. Art of Pleasing the Boss
Intro: Something dark has happened to the girls, that made them abandon their powers. The Jojo's own the town, and are trying to ruin the lives of the puffs even more. When danger threatens their loved ones, will they be able to endure and take back their powers again? And exactly what is Him up to?
Chapter 1. In a pinch
«Yes, yes,» the blond muttered, balancing a slice of bread in her mouth, head on shoulder to keep the phone in place and three boxes on top of each other in her arms. It looked rather silly, like a young mule trying to balance for the first time. She wiggled her stuff up the stairs to the building – thank god the door was open - and managed to press the elevator button while the man at the end kept ranting at her.
«I under-» she placed the food at the top of the box to continue in a clearer manner. «I understand very well, but isn't there a slight possibility that-» the man interrupted her like clockwise, and she grabbed the phone with her right hand, cocking her head back in place. As if it would give her better authority, or courage to go on, with a slightly annoyed look on her face, eyebrows wrinkled. She held the boxes up with one hand and tried to come to the word in between the voices statements.«I- yes, but- yes- please listen, Mr. Brokmore. I know it's not the best, yes, but please. I just need one more try and I'm sure it'll work. I- yes.»
«Enough, Ms. Utonium. Not one of your paintings have been sold, and we can't keep paying without earning anything in return. I'm really sorry, but that's the reality behind it. You used to be a good artist, and I personally still find your paintings good, but they are not pleasing to the buyers anymore. We simply cannot keep supporting your work. Have a good day,» the voice finished and was followed with a beeping sound. He had not given her any time to answer him.
«Please,» the blond whispered into the dead line. The elevator dinged as the doors came apart, revealing a woman eying her phone, holding the hand of her little boy. His hair was brown, just as the woman's. She scowled and those chocolate eyes met her sky blue ones. His orbs slightly widened as he stared at her inhuman strength. The gears inside her head put the peaces together before he could turn to his mother.
«Mom, look. She's super strong,» the boy said, tugging at his mother. The woman, now unemployed, quickly grabbed the boxed with both her hands and flashed the woman an uncertain smile. She had barely made it, and the adult exiting the elevator nodded her eyes, dragged her kid along. She hadn't witnessed it. Letting out a breath she didn't know she had held, she glanced after them.
«That's fantastic, sweetheart. Come along, grandma is waiting.» The boy turned around and looked straight at her. Those eyes broke her heart, and the blond moved a finger to her lips and winked at him. The child lightened up at once and bounced after her mother, chirping away at the new found superhero. She wished. Her sister was going to be furious if she knew what the blonde had done. They were suppose to lay low, just as they had promised each other.
Sighing, she entered the elevator and pressed a round button with an eight on it. She still needed to go a couple more rounds to get everything with her. Quickly remembering her breakfast, she grabbed the slice of bread and stuffed it back into her mouth, nibbling on it. The fine taste of cheese suddenly didn't feel so fine any more, and quickly turned to the bitter taste of ashes. It was hard to swallow, and she felt tears at the corner of her eyes.
At the age of twenty-two, Bubbles Utonium was unemployed and currently in the progress of moving in with her sister. She didn't know how much longer she would be able to keep the car, or how long her money went for supplies, or even food. Her self loathing didn't get further as she reached the floor of destination, and exited. It wasn't like things could get worse, right?
She scanned the doors to find the right one, turning to the side to follow the rising number. 819 was the lucky digit, and she glanced around, making sure nobody were close enough to see her. Bubbles proceeded to knock on the door, quickly grabbing the boxes again. She had been careless and would probably give her sister a heart attack if she had seen it. Their powers could never be found out, no matter what, and her redheaded sister had made that painfully clear. The child had called her a superhero to his mother. She really wished that was the case. Her powers could be used for good, but Bubbles could not do that alone. Besides, she had already promised not to.
«What the hell do you want?» a voice called grumpily from the other side of the door, and the blond cleared her throat. It sure sounded like her sister, but the invasion didn't feel any easier.
«Could you maybe let me inside, Buttercup?» She heard clicking sounds before the door opened and green eyes stared at her. Bubbles barely finished the sentence as the door swung open.
«Oh, shit. Was that today?» Her tan sister scratched her black hair and bit her lip. She looked like she had just woke up, t-shirt and loose pants dangling around her body. The blond nodded her head as she entered the room as she was waved inside. The door smacked shut behind her, startling the blonde. The boxes almost tumbled out of her grip, but she was too fast and strong for them.
«Sorry, I totally forgot. My boss has been working my ass the clock around, and this was my first hours off for three days.» Bubbles sat the boxes down and stared horrid at her older sister.
«You've been working for three days, none stop?» She waved a hand at her and made a groaning sound.
«We get half an hour off here and there, but that's about it.» The blonde grabbed her sister in a tight hug, now taking notice of the dark bags under her eyes. Gosh, she didn't think she had ever seen Buttercup this tired before.
«You can't do that, superhuman or not. It isn't good for you, Butters.» the green eyed girl sighed, before releasing herself from the strong hug. She went for the kitchen and turned her coffee maker on. It started up as she filled the coffee in and water on top.
«It can't really be helped. That son ova bitch knows I can't say no, or he'll fire my ass.» The blond swallowed, narrowing her eyes. «Besides, the tips are good and so is the payment. At least I don't have to sell my back on the streets, and I've got a home.» It stung in the blonds heart, and she glanced down. «Ah, Shit. Man, Bubs, I didn't mean it like that. You know what I meant.»
«Yeah, I know, I know. No worries. I'm just happy one of us has a job and you're willing to let me crash over until I get back on my feet again.» She flashed her a bright smile only Bubbles were capable of, and her sister tugged the corner of her lip. The green girl had a strong need to appear indifferent when it came to sensitive topics and be the rock of the whole world. She placed a coffee cup under and waited for her savior, the mighty power of caffeine.
«What's the time, anyway?» Buttercup said, staring hungrily at the flowing coffee. It had become her new craving, and the only thing that kept her going. At times, she'd even munch on black coffee beans.
«Ehm,» the blond fished her phone out of her pants and stared at them. «It's quarter to five.» Buttercups eyes widened and she pulled the half filled cup out and chugged it down, letting the rest flow over the kitchen table. It burned in her throat but she didn't care as she ran for her bedroom, quickly stripping out of her cloths.
«Fuck, I'm going to be late for work!» She shouted, changing into a set of fresh working cloths. Gaping at the fast reaction, and the fact that she had just drank down boiling water, Bubbles turned to look at her sister run, back and forth to fetch everything she needed. She grabbed a set of keys and threw them to her blond sister.
«I thought you had a day off.»
«I did,» Buttercup answered as she was bouncing about on one leg while putting socks on. «I've slept for almost twelve hours.»
«Do as you wish. There's food in the refrigerator. Always lock the door, even when you are home. When you go out, even if it's just down the hallway. Always, Bubbles. People here are crazy,» she said as she stuffed some coffee from the pack into her mouth and ran out the door, locking it behind her with crunching sounds.
«Have a nice day,» Bubbles mumbled and found herself waving to nobody in particular. Drawing a breath, she glanced around the apartment. Cloths everywhere. Old plates of food and dirt. With so much work, her sister didn't have any time to clean up after herself. When was the last time she had been home, Bubbles wondered as she stared at a green, fluffy something. It might have been a slice of pizza in its prime, but now Bubbles would make short process of it by throwing it in to the thrash. Suddenly feeling a lot better, she knew what she was going to do. Fetch her stuff and clean up Buttercups apartment they now shared. This was the best she could do until she managed to pay her for the stay, then move out as soon as possible. Not need to stay longer than she needed to. Giggling to herself, she quickly left for the elevator. How many boxes did she have left? A couple more. Her whole trunk had been full of stuff from her last place, and she couldn't afford to throw away any of her working tools. Nor clothes.
She jogged to her car, waving at a halting Mercedes stopping for her like a gentleman, and opened it with her keys. Horror hit her as she stared down at the set of metal in her hands. Had she remembered to lock the apartment door? She didn't think so. Buttercup was going to be so furious if she found out. In a haste, she grabbed three new boxes and ran back, barely remembering to locking her own car. Both elevators were moving, and she swallowed hard. They were going upwards. Not knowing what to do, she half way panicked and went for the stairs. It wasn't like the boxes were heavy to her, but they would be for a normal human her size. Climbing the first stairs, she noticed the emptiness of it. Nobody was watching. Her sister weren't there to judge her either. Making up her mind right there and then, she flew in a zip to the eight floor, faster than the elevator could have moved her. Landing in front of the door, she opened it and pushed through, looking to her right.
Her heart fell to her stomach as she saw the door to Buttercups apartment open. This couldn't be good. The blond hadn't been her for more than half an hour and had already messed things up. Walking toward the door with the worst possible scenarios in her mind, she went inside and straight for the living room. Clenching her teeth and swallowing, she got the attention of the unwanted guest. He turned on his heel as her footsteps approached and bent his head forward, staring at her over his sunglasses. His hair was black, and his skin was really pale. He had long nails on his fingers.
«Hello, pretty one,» he said, flashing her a crooked grin. It sent warning signs into her head and chills down her spine.
«Who are you?» Bubbles asked, setting her boxes down beside the rest. The man rose an eyebrow, dismissing her question.
«Is BC moving out?» The blond bit her lip. She didn't like it when people avoided the topic and tried to sweet talk about other things.
«No, I'm moving in with her.» The man nodded his head.
«Wasn't sure, but I always took her as the dyke type. Understandable, though. You're really pretty.» Feeling uneasy at his creepy gaze, she folded her hands over her chest, trying to look intimidating. It didn't work, not the least. It gave the same effect as a hand-folding hamster would have. Fluffy and adorable.
«I'm her sister. Who are you?»
«Ah! How rude of me,» The man said, bowing his head down. «My name is Ace, and I live across the hall of BC. I saw the door open and wondered if something had happened, that's why I came over to check on her.» When he stood up again, she realized how tall he really was. A warm smile filled her face. He was a friend of her sister and nobody scary. Relieved, she let out another sigh. The man chuckled. «I believe you left the door open. BC is really careful, even keeps it locked when she's home.»
«Yeah, it's all my fault. I was fetching my things in the car and totally forgot to lock it. I can't remember leaving the door agape, though.» The blond puzzled. The man chuckled slightly. It was a deep, charming sound.
«These doors are quite old, so they easily slide open if you don't lock them properly.» Nodding in understanding, she placed a finger on her chin. It was possible. She couldn't really remember how she had closed the door, just the rushing out.
«Seeing everything is fine, I'll be on my way. If you ever need anything, just knock. 825.» He gave another bow and tipped his imaginary hat. Bubbles giggled and waved a goodbye. Day one, and things seemed to go rather smooth. The neighbor – at least the one she had met – had been a real gentleman and she hadn't broken anything yet. Pleased with herself, Bubbles remembered the rest of her work, and proceeded to fetch the rest of her stuff, this time, she did remembered to lock the door.
It took a couple of rounds to empty the car, and it went rather smoothly. The elevator was always there when she came back, and soon enough, the apartment looked worse then when she had first entered. Smiling at herself, she placed her headset into her ears, remembered to lock the door to the apartment and stated cleaning up. After the little error, she wasn't going to take any chances. Luckily for her, Buttercup had big trash bags in one of the drawers in her kitchen. She threw in old food, boxes of milk, juice, pizza boxes and fast food. Half the work was done, and she made a bag for empty bottles, ready for recycling. Swaying her hips to the pop music, she placed all the dirty mugs, glasses, cutlers and plates into the dishwasher. She hadn't had one at her place, and was glad Buttercup had one. It made cleaning up rather easy. Next, she threw all the dirty cloths into the washing room. It was a rather large place, and she became delighted at the sight of a washing machine. It seemed like her sister knew what she needed. Bubbles had planes to get there at one point, but as a very unknown artist, she didn't make enough for it.
The feeling of melancholy slightly filled her. Both her sister had steady jobs and came quite well by, but she hadn't sold one painting for a year now. It had started with her first sponsor telling her he couldn't employ her any more, and thus she had found another. They quickly fired her because none could sell her paintings. The blond couldn't tell what had changed. She had kept on drawing the same living and touchy paintings as always, but people just didn't seem to enjoy her work any more. A tear fell down her cheek, and Bubbled allowed herself one sob, before wiping it away and continuing working. She was going to show them, by drawing a really good picture and become really famous.
Bubbles threw Buttercups underwear into the machine and read the description on how to and what. She started it up, and hummed her Spanish song. She grabbed a mop and bucket as she exited, filling it with water and readied the mop. Beginning to dance around herself and wiping the dust away, changing both the appearance and smell of the place. Opening a window, she giggled at the sunset. Time sure flew fast by. She drew a deep breath of the fresh air, and went for the dusting. Happy with her work, she nodded pleased to herself. She went for the last room, and wasn't surprised at all the cloths. Where did Buttercup keep all of them? And where had she gotten them? When she and her sister had split up, Bubbles herself had taken three boxes, her older sister Blossom had taken two, and Buttercup had barely filled half of one. She quickly rounded everything up and threw it into the washing room. It would take some time to wash everything, and she didn't know where to hang it up.
At the last round of dirty cloths, her stomach started growling. Remembering the green sisters allowance at whatever she wanted, Bubbles finds herself reaching for the cold refrigerator. Slowly opening, the corners of her mouth twitches. This was so typical her sibling. Mountain Dew, chocolate, beer and several fast food boxes. One of them were marked 'To Bubbles, BC' with a green stick note, together with a sugar free soda. It was heartwarming to see her sister still remembered what she loved to drink back in high school. Opening the box, she saw her favorite. Pasta and chicken, Chinese way. Sobbing in her laugh, she places it inside the microwave and waits for it to ding. They had all been independent for years now, but this reminded Bubbles that she was the youngest, and her older sister would always look out for her. Buttercup cared, in her own way.
The micro started beeping, and she opened it, pressing five different buttons before it stopped. She brought it with her into the living room. The sun was setting and painting the cream colored walls orange. The blond fished out her tools; paint, brushes, plates, stand and canvas. A fork inside the food box, she tightened her pigtails, placed her paint over her wood pad, and picked up her soft crays. She loved to mix different types of paintings and drawings. She grabbed two bites from the steaming food, studying her picture. She was going to paint the whole living room, not just the sun.
As she stood, she would paint the huge windows behind the white sofa as the colorful tongue of the sun licked everything it touched. Before starting, she texted Buttercup, asking if she wanted anything until she got home. It didn't take long before the phone light up and displayed the incoming message: 'I will work late, but make yourself at home. You can use my bed if you want. We can sort things out more clearly tomorrow. Sorry about this, Bub.' Giggling at herself, she started painting. The first stroke of paint on both her finger and canvas, were blue. Bubbles were going to show everyone how great of an artist she was.
Buttercup was speeding down the highway as fast as the law let her. She had eight minutes, the girl noticed as she stared at her phone. It was 4:57, and she'd made it go too fast so she would stress to reach the time. It had helped her in her need several times, avoiding the unpleasant talk. Eight minutes from here? The brunette wondered as she passed the oh so known fast food restaurant to her left. It only took two minutes to get to work. She had saved for years to buy the black and green car, and it gave her great comfort with it's smooth acceleration and drift.
Arriving at the back entrance, she exited her car and locked it, double checking it. There was no way anyone were getting close to it with the alarm she had. It would go off if anyone touched it while it was locked. Sending her car one last look, she went inside of Izis Backside. It was one of the most attractive bars in Townsville. She had been lucky enough to get a job there as a bartender, and the money was sweet.
It allowed Buttercup to be herself. She could joke around with the guys, but could tell them to back off at any given moment if they became too daring. Taking a drink at work wasn't a big deal, as long as she knew what she was doing and didn't get smashed. Being one of the only ones that took her job serious, she had never been drunk while on duty, and she was proud of herself for it. When the costumer bought the drinks, it was too easy to empty a bottle.
Waving her hand at Mitch Mitchelson, her co-worker, whom nodded in return, she came behind the counter, taking in the faces. Most of the workers were regular and ordered the same. They loved her, because she would always remember them and knew what they wanted before anything was said.
«Good evening, Joe, George, Math,» she said, smiling at the older men sitting and chatting with Mitch. They all acknowledged her presence and started telling stories from the old times. She had heard them all, but kept being polite and smiled, joking along and gasping.
People came and went, ordering different things, and she knew them all by heart, mixing, clowning and making it all into a show. Girls would clap at her and give her extra for not wasting their time with boring waiting, and the guys would joke around about what more she could do. She had heard it all before, and it didn't bother her any more. It had been hell before, and would clearly have been fired if it hadn't been for Mitch stepping up and holding her back, telling her how to do things and how to react to situations. She owed him much.
Everything went smooth, until something caught her eyes. It was a movement of greetings, hands and exchanging of illegal drugs. She'd seen it all before, and knew how to spot it and how it went. Her jaw tightened as she was polishing one of the glasses, looking away. It became more and more difficult to ignore, because she saw it more frequently as the night approached. It was illegal, didn't the manager care? She should take actions, she figured as she placed the shiny object down, not trusting herself with it. It would make a very interesting dodgeball.
A hand came down on her shoulder, and Mitch sent her a warning look with his warm, brown eyes. «Let it slide, BC. Someone bought up Izis yesterday and this is how things are going to be from now it.» He leaned into her ear and told her in a calm tone to let it slide if she enjoyed her job. Her shoulder fell and she picked up another glass, rubbing it with her handkerchief. He really was the best when it came to controlling her. Mitch knew exactly what to say.
«Who could buy Izis? Isn't it one of the most earning bars in this city?» Her eyes darted from the dealers and down to her work. The three older men thanked them for the conversation before leaving form their home, children and wife waiting.
«It is,» Mitch said, mixing a drink for a girl with curly, red hair. She looked a lot like her sister Blossom if she had been the party type, and a complete skank. The redhead sent Buttercup a death glare, and she grinned at her. How she loved to annoy people. However, Mitch wasn't off the hook. He had dodged the question, and that wasn't his style. Something cold dropped to her stomach and she stopped her working.
«Mitch. Who bought up Izis?» The brunette scratched his chin, eyes avoiding meeting hers.
«Please don't freak out, BC. You probably don't have to meet the manager ever anyway.» Again, stalling.
«Mitch,» her tone was dangerous.
«No, please. Listen, don't you need this job?» he flipped three flasks at the same time, impressing another brunette. She was leaning on her elbow and giving him a dreamy look.
«Here you go, lovely,» the man winked, and the green Utonium rolled her eyes. He was such a ladies man, but that didn't mean she was going to drop the subject.
«Yes, I do. I really need this job, and it pays well, but -»
«Then do as I always tell you to, for the sake of your job. Just roll with it, don't take it personal. It's already done and he probably won't come here.»
«He?» Then it hit her like a ton of bricks. She immediately understood why he didn't want to tell her and was trying to avoid the questions. Her eyes lit up, and he started to shake his head furiously. No wonder Mitch hadn't told her. No wonder he was keeping it a secret. There was only one person she hated in the whole town. Really hated.
«No, BC, don't. Just calm down.»
«Butch Jojo owns Izis backside now!?» She roared at him, breaking the glass in her hands. A girl let's out a screech of surprise as the shattered glass hits the floor. Luckily, most doesn't seem to notice due to the loud music and smoke in the bar, but some turned their gaze their way. Mitch shouts at a blond to take over, as he drags the dangerous female into the back, and away from all those curious people.
«I ought to know he wouldn't let me be, that fucking shit head. I'm going to murder him in his sleep,» Buttercup rants, gritting her teeth.
«Calm down, BC,» Mitch says, gripping at her shoulders and stares into her eyes. He reminded her of a puppy, and it was hard for anyone to refuse anything he asked. She remember how he had been a real douche bag back in preschool and up until they hit high school. Something had chanced that summer, and he worked both hard to get good grades and make up for everything he had done. Mitch had matured more than anyone she had ever encountered. He was now her best friend, and the only one besides her sister whom could calm her down.
«It is not the end of the world. Sure, he's a major prick and wants to get into your head, and that's why you have to kick back double so hard. Don't let it effect you, don't let it bother you. Forget him, and do the job. You enjoy it, right? Talking with Joe, George and mixing up drinks to random strangers.» Her look could have melted metal, and he sighs.
«What does the blond one, I don't remember her name, with the purple dress always order?»
«Sex on the beach,» she said, automatically.
«And the guy with the biggest mustache I've ever seen?»
«Scotch with three ice cubes. He always stays two hours, but never takes more than two drinks.»
«How about the guy in the suit, blond hair?»
«White Russian, but I don't understand how this has anything to do with Butch.»
«Everything, BC. You love your job, and you're awesome at it. Don't let him come in here and try to ruin that for you. You're strong, BC. You can get over this and show him you're better than he'll ever be.»
«Hell yeah,» she said, flashing him a smile. In everything they had done, she had always been superior. The only reason he was her 'boss' was because of Mojo's money. He was nothing without it. The green eyed girl started laughing like a maniac, psyching herself up with her battle shout.
«Thanks, man,» Buttercup grinned.
«You're welcome, BC. Now let's get back to work before it becomes too much for our co-workers,» the brunette laughed, and they did so. It was still nagging at her, but not so much any more. Mitch really knew how to inspire people, and she sometimes felt like he wasted it all in this bar. The green puff loved working with him, but the man could easily do bigger, more important things.
The music filled her head and she started humming, a soft smile on her face. It had to be Mitch changing. He knew it was her favorite at the moment, and it took away all of her stress. The mood didn't last long, however, as she took notice of the same beanie wearing guy, dealing out more of his drugs. The sight of the small, plastic bag with the white powder had it boiling for her. She fished up her phone and dialed a number.
«BC?» Kathelin asked, her blond co-worker. She was a nervous girl with a sweet smile. Like her sister, she was a goodie-two-shoes and didn't want to break any rules. Someone picked up at the other end before she could answer her.
«Yeah, I'd like to report a felony. Yeah, drug dealing. Inside Izis Backside. Anonymous, please,» She answered his last question before hanging up, with a promise of a patrol sent her way. A smirk fell on her lips.
A few seconds later, the door were opened, and a man in jeans and a black t-shirt, marked in red, dripping letters 'Death Dealers' entered. His hair was short, spiky and he flashed everyone a shining smile. Those forest green eyes were a couple shades darker than herself, and she felt her inside blacken at the sight of the person she hated the most. Mitch was too busy on the other side, serving a gang of girls to notice. Butch Jojo went straight for the bar, taking a place in front of Buttercup. He held her gaze and smirked pleased.
«I'll take two shots of Jeger,» his voice had darkened since last time she had seen them, and if it hadn't been for her automatic system working, she would have just gaped at him, or punched him straight in the face. Instead she turned her back and poured up, placing the drinks in front of him.
«You're as hot as ever,» he commented as he slammed the empty shot glass down. Tightening her mouth, she could feel the distaste of his presence. Fucking pig, she thought and continued with her work. Taking Mitch's advice was the best thing to do. She could just ignore him.
«Oh, that's cold,» he commented, elbowing the girl next to him. She had a long v-neck and blinked his way, and he winked at her. «You're one fine piece, but unfortunately I'm hers tonight. Call me tomorrow,» he said, pointing at Buttercup and handed the brunette a card with his number on it. She couldn't see him doing it, but she could feel the stare and finger. Giggling at him, she took the paper and stuffed it into her bra, walking away.
«And why is that?» Buttercup said, glaring over her shoulder.
«Well what do you know, she talks,» he said, taking the second shot, staring into her eyes as he did so. It was a challenge, and she'd be damned to turn it down. As their orbs locked, she kept working, taking orders, polishing glasses and sending the dirty ones into the dishwasher, then the steamer. She was not going to ask him again. Every single word that came out of his mouth was making her insides tick closer to explosion.
«A Cuba Libre,» a voice said, and Buttercup started working, tearing her eyes away and flashed a smile at the guy. He had brown hair and blue eyes, and his body was well fit. The girl handed him his drink, and he winked at her.
«Get lost, buddy. She's mine,» Butch said, breaking up his knuckles in demonstration. The guy backed away, recognizing the infamous Jojo brother. He quickly apologized before wandering off. Buttercup growled.
«I'm not yours,» she spat with poisoning words, hoped he would die from them. «I never have been, and I never will be.» The guy chuckled before ordering another shot. She didn't hesitate. If he got too drunk, she could have him thrown out, manager or not. It was but a wish. Having superpowers also gave them a huge tolerance toward drugs and alcohol. They could get wasted and face smashed, but it just required more than most.
«I disagree,» Butch said, smiling. She snorted at him and leaned on her elbow, face close to his. He reeked of cigarets, alcohol and something sweet. It made her want to vomit all over him.
«I suppose it's very though on your ego when a girl doesn't want you because you're such a low life, but here's the deal. We'll never date, Jojo. And I'm never even going to stand being around you.»
«Words, words, words,» Butch said, fishing up a bag from his pocket. The content was brown, and she knew it too well. He saw her horrid stare and flashed her a gross smile.
«Want some?»
«Fuck yo-» Her sentence was cut off as an officer entered the bar and everyone turned. It quickly became quiet as he walked around, glancing at every face and analyzing. Some guys were sweating and avoiding eye contact. He came up to the counter and tipped his hat to Butch, staring at the bag on the counter. Got'cha! Buttercup screamed on the inside, and struggled to hold a smile back. He'd be sent away for sure. The timing couldn't have been more perfect.
«Evening Mr. Jojo,» the man said.
«Officer,» Butch smiled and gave him a nod.
«We got a call there's being sold illegal drugs at your bar.» The blond man took a seat beside him and everyone went back to normal.
«You did? I suppose whomever called had that right,» Butch said, picking out five blank, small bags of different colored content while staring Buttercup straight in the eyes. Her heart sank to her stomach as the man pointed at the second bag, and fished out his money. They exchanged and he stuffed it inside his pocket.
«Well, I don't see anything, so you have yourself a nice evening, Mr. Jojo,» the police officer said, strolling out of the bar. He threw a 'later' after him as he went. A smirk was steady on Butch's face and he put them back inside of his pants. He winked a finger at Buttercup to come closer. She didn't but backed away instead. A hand grabbed her and yanked her by the collar.
«I'll let you in on a little secret,» he whispered in her ear as she was struggling to get away, ripping at his iron fist and pulling. «My dad owns this town, and there's nothing you or your sisters can do about it. So you better accept that right away, Butterfly.» She managed the break out of his grip and pushed away, hissing.
«It was nice seeing you again, Butters. I'm having a feeling we'll meet again very soon,» he snickered as he took his last shot. Slamming some money down, he winked at her before leaving, waving as he did so. She gave him the finger. If she could, she would jump him and punch that smirk off his face. Mitch came up to her as Butch disappeared and placed a hand on her shoulder. She turned to him.
«Good job, BC. Want to take the night shift? No one else can.» She gave a huge sigh, trying to wash the anger away. It was boiling inside her. «Think about the money.» He didn't have to tell her, because that was what she was doing now. Picking up the money on the counter, she nodded her head. Just a little more, and she would be out of this forsaken city. Just then a text ticked in, and she looked at the display. It was from her little sister. "Do you want anything until you get home? I can even make dinner if you want. Xoxo". So typical her little sister. She smiled and sent back that she didn't need anything and how she could use her bed. Seeing she would be working all night now, they could sort things out the day after. It would just have to wait. She sent the message.
«Can I have a word with you, Buttercup?» the manager assistant, Dani, asked her. She was nervous and gripping his phone. It gave her a bad feeling.
«Yeah, sure, Dani.» Mitch nodded as telling her he could take over. She gave him a pat on the shoulder and went after the blond man. He lead her out and was moving uncontrollably around.
«What is it?» she asked, immediately regretting it.
«Uhm, people from higher up just called, and yeah. I'm terribly sorry, but you're fired.» The words were swooning in her head, and it felt like she was falling. She knew she was in shock, because she couldn't move, and her thought were racing. It didn't last long as wrath built up and came out as a low, dangerous growl. There was only one person that could be capable of doing this, and that was Butch fucking Jojo. Dani was biting his lips, probably expecting being punched, and he was so right. She wanted to punch him straight through the roof, but taking her anger out on him wouldn't be fair at all. The poor man was just the messenger.
«Fine,» she simply said and stormed out, pulling her things with her. She was so done with the place. Screw this city. Opening her car, she speed off, burning a little of her tires into the asphalt as she went. She was aiming for the north boarder of the city, driving in the sunset. The cliche was staring her in the face, and she hated it. Buttercup hated everything, and desperately needed something to get her anger out on. Speed always helped her. Violence, brutality and speed always cheered her up.
With one hand on the steering wheel, she shifted the gear to a higher tier and passed the sign saying 'You're now leaving Townsville. Come back soon.' Yeah right, she thought and went even faster. They could all go fuck themselves. Buttercup took turn after turn, driving further and further away.
At a sudden turn, she saw a small child in the road. Her eyes widen like a dear at the headlights fell on her, and Buttercup cursed loudly as she turned left, and out of the road. Her car hit a rock, and went spinning around, sending her flying out of the front window and the car straight on top of her, sliding several meters before halting. The dust had yet to lay down as the child came off the road, slowly melting away, growing at least three feet in the process. Red smoke surrounded the creature as a girly giggle filled the air and it changed into a tall man, red in the skin with black hair and beard. He wore a business suit and black shoes. His belt was engraved in black gold, shining with the letters 'Devil'.
He approached the car, and knelt down as the smoke was slowly subsiding. He heard a cough before the car flipped over and Buttercup was reviled. Metal was sticking out of her right side, and she yanked it out in a quick move. A scream filled the air as the blood splattered the earth. She was dusty and her clothes ripped. Her skin was cut here and there, one of her feet were sticking awkwardly the other way.
«Oh my,» the man giggled.
«Him, you son of a bitch. Are you trying to kill me?» She shouted angry and sent a punch straight to his face. It went through as the demon became smoke, and formed back right away.
«Not really, darling, but it's not a bad idea.»
«My car! Look what you did to my car!» She screamed, looking at the destroyed wreck. Her beautiful car was in worse shape than her, and it was breaking her heart. «Do you have any idea how long I saved for it? How much it cost me?» Him giggled.
«Yeah. I do, but I didn't make you do anything. You could have chosen to drive over the little girl.»
«And I would have had I known it was you in there,» she growled, breaking her foot back in place, feeling it already starting to heal. «Don't you have anything better to do than harass me?»
«Sweet Buttercup. I didn't come here to bother you. I actually came here with a proposal.»
«And what makes you think I'll take it? Let even listen to you?» She snorted, standing up and dusting her cloths. She cracked her jaw back in place, not even flinching at the pain it caused her. She wasn't the green sister for nothing.
«Because you will gladly take it.» She rose an eyebrow at him, and gave her broken car a long, heartbreaking stare, muttering under her breath. Him snapped his finger while rolling his eyes, and the car bent and eeled back in place, returning to it's former, beautiful self. Eying the sweet ride, she turned to him with her arms crossed.
«You got my attention, despite fixing something you broke in the first place.» The devil himself let out another giggle.
«It's about the thing we both loath most in this world right now. The Jojo brothers.»
Blossom Utonium was one of the few females in the Oil stocks that had made well for herself. She had started at the bottom and worked her way up, acing every hindrance in her way. Being brilliant in both science and computer affairs, people called her the ultimate genius. Whatever the crisis or unsolvable problem that came up, she always managed to fix it. Stocks went down? Easily focus on the most popular part and perfect it. Technical issues? No problem, she had it all figured out. The girl knew her way around, and could easily make her own computer from scratch. Needless to say, she had managed to climb high.
«Ms. Utonium,» Mr. Hanks called after her, the boss of her working place. He caught up to her, nose in her papers. She adjusted her glasses and flashed him a smile.
«Mr. Hanks. I hope everything works as they should. How do you think it went?»
«Marvelous, my dare. You're simply brilliant, and an offer has been made over you. The price went sky high,» the chubby man laughed wholehearted and she smiled uncertain.
«Another company have bought me up?» she asked. It was normal to move around, considering her value increased by every step she took. The work never bother her, it was the new people. They were scared of here, because she was so good at her job. Nobody wanted to be second place, and standing next to her, that's what they were. She loved where she was at the moment; the people were nice, and everyone accepted her as their own. If she moved, they were sure to talk nasty behind her back about how she though she was better; as if nothing had changed the last couple of months. Blossom never considered herself superior to anyone, and just wanted to do her best, always.
«They sure have. It's been a pleasure having you, Ms. Utonium. I hope we meet again in the future, because you make a pleasant conversation.» She nodded her head and smiled.
«It's been a pleasure being here, Mr. Hanks, and I also enjoy our conversations. Especially about the possible reaction between-»
«Another time, Utonium. I have to get to my next meeting. You will find an escort to your new company downstairs. Good day,» the man interrupted before hurrying down the hall, leaving her a little empty. She couldn't help the sinking feeling of the man actually being glad to get ride of her. Blossom knew it bothered others when she was smarter than them and corrected them, but she couldn't help herself. She was biologically built that way.
Sighing, she turned and went the other way, to her former office. Looks like her presentation on the meeting was a huge hit, seeing she was already bought up. She didn't like the idea of being sold by her company, so she saw it as advancing upwards in the system instead. Her thoughts wandered off to the next working place. How were her co-workers? Would they also fear her or would they be nice? How was the company, and what company? A smile played on her face. This will be another adventure, Professor, she thought as her eyes stared out at the colorful sky. It was already late and the sun was progressing downward. She would just be presented for the next company before the day was over.
She reached the elevator and took it down, assuming they had already packed her office and shipped it off. Having done it so many times before, it had become routene for her. There was one thing she wouldn't miss at all, and that would be the music in that tiny box. It was tasteless to say the least. As it reached the first floor, she couldn't get out fast enough and hurried for the lobby.
«Ms. Utonium?» a woman's voice asked and she turned toward it. She had shoulder length, brown hair, her bangs splitting on the middle. Her eyes were green and she had thick lipstick. She wore a tight miniskirt, white blouse and a matching jacket. Standard office cloths, she thought. Everyone else had them, but she didn't bother. She had jeans and pink top under her pink and gray squared shirt. The arms were rolled up, making it easy to work, revealing her perfect skin. Her nails were bit and uneven, but her fingers were long.
«Yes?» Blossom answered and held her hand out. The woman looked down at it before back at her, not taking it. Rude, she thought.
«A limo is waiting outside for you. It will take you to your new working place. Your schedule will be given to you by your superior in the vehicle.» She moved to her side and gestured for the redhead to follow.
«My things?»
«Already been taken care of, Miss,» the woman explained and walked in front, not checking if she was following. Her high heels clicked as she went, and Blossom felt like she was prowling, her snickers not making any sound at all. She held the door opened and waited for Blossom to get in before slamming it shut.
«What's with the glasses?» A voice said, and she snapped her head in the direction of the well known vocals. She saw red, literally. Brick Jojo had crimson hair, a coupe of shades darker than herself, and red eyes. They made him intimidating and threatening. The intelligence shining through didn't help, and she remembered him laughing their teacher up in the face when they thought they had caught him slacking, but he always knew the answer. It had been years since she had last seen him.
«How the hell did you find me in Europe?» She questioned, pulling at the car door. She was not staying. Thoughts didn't help her much, because it was already locked.
«Sit down. My company just bought you up, so I own you for the next year,» he said, no joke in his voice. He was going through a couple of papers, ruffled a couple of sheets together before handing them to her. She carefully took them, not touching him. Her orbs wandered to the fabric and she quickly shuffled through the first papers before stopping up.
«There's a problem right here,» she spoke up, holding her finger at it. The limo had started up and Brick changed places to sit beside her.
«Show me,» he said, his rough voice tickling her cheek. She sent him an angry look before explaining the problem. «Why?» he asked, and she sighed heavily, before explaining how she had figured out and came to the solution. When done, the man took the papers out of her hand and moved to the other side, across her.
«Good. You passed the test, Blossom. You can start tomorrow morning.»
«Wait, where? What kind of work.» Brick handed her three sheets more and she glanced over them, before stopping up at one word.
«Wow, wow, wait. Hold up. Townsville? I'm not going back there. Forget it.»
«You have to. I own you.» This was the Brick she knew. His sadistic smile were back in place and he gave her a look that made her feel so small and petite. Pathetic to the bone. «Congrats, Bloss, you're now officially my whore,» he snickered and leaned into the seat, placing his feet on the seat beside her and hands behind his head.
«No,» Blossom said, placing her hands in her lap. «I refuse.»
«You can't,» he said, closing his eyes. «The contract you signed makes you bound to the highest bidding company for a year.»
«Not if I get fired.» Her voice was steady. Anything was better than working for the Jojo's, and she wasn't going back to Townsville. Too many bad memories. In respect of herself, she couldn't.
«Oh, we changed that part,» Brick muttered, and threw another bunker of papers at her. He sure was good at it. Scuffing at it, she found the right page right away. She had written it, after all. To her horror they had changed it. The contract stated that if she missed a day of work without a doctors consent, she would own them one hundred thousand dollars for every passing day.
«One hundred thousand?» She shouted, almost fainting at the number. Her male counterpart laughed at her outburst and sat up.
«Isn't it great? You didn't even notice the small change as you signed the contract.»
«When, when did you do this?» she couldn't help the disappointment and anger in her voice. Brick was going too far, and this was low, even for him.
«Around Christmas some time. 25th? 26th? I can't remember. See it as my present to you,» he laughed again, cruelly. «More like a present to me.»
«This is a new low, even for you,» she whispered, eyes glaring at him. She snarled with her mouth and her left eye twitched. She couldn't jump him here. In their fights, several years ago, she had won due to tactic, and that wasn't the most tactic thing to do at the moment. Brick was stronger due to his physical body, and in return, she had better flexibility and reaction. «Let me off. I'm going home.»
«We emptied your place, just as a reassurance you would show up to work and not run away to the moon. You're coming with me back to Townsville, today, right now. We're already headed for the airport. Yes it is paid for, and yes you have to sit beside me.» Blossom stared at her lap. Would the window break if she punched at it? Most likely. She hadn't used her powers in year, but she could feel them surging through her system, every day. «How long are you going to run, Blossom?» he asked, eyes on her. She hated those red orbs.
«The rest of my life. To another galaxy if I have to, to escape you.»
«But you won't. Because of your sisters.» He sat up, leaning forward on his knees, folding his fingers. It was a typical business move. He knew he had her.
«Yes, I care for my sisters. Like you care for your brothers.»
«Then you will come back to our city with me,» he said, leaning back again. «Who knows what Butch might do to Buttercup while you're not there?»
«If he touches her, I swear to god-» her voice was dangerous and her eyes could kill anything they aimed at. Brick was calm as always, loving to push her buttons.
«Na, not yet. He might, but he might leave her alone. Less likely, but hey. You'd have to be there to find out. And Bubbles. You know she's having a hard time. Can't even sell her paintings any more.» And he had her with that. Blossom let out a heavy sigh in defeat, and begrudged his victory to him. He played dirty, because he was the villein, and he had won this battle.
«Alright,» she said, voice low. Brick grinned to himself, pleased.
They rode in silence to the airport, and Blossom exited the limo first, seeing all the servants taking their luggage. Where they came from, she had no idea. Brick told her the pink suitcases were her stuff, and she nodded, annoyed. She didn't want to go back, and just seeing him made her more annoyed as time passed. They took a private yet, and glancing around on the inside made her gasp. It was beautiful and elegant.
«Do you shit money or something?» she spoke up, not really knowing she had voiced her thought. The redhead laughed as he took a seat.
«Na, I don't, but Mojo does.» At the name of the monkey, Blossom found herself more than annoyed. She was straight out angry at this point. Drawing a deep breath, she sat furthest away from him and stared outside the window, imagined flying. It had been years since last time. She remembered the feeling of being free, capable of going anywhere she wanted.
«So, the deal about the glasses,» Brick said, sitting down beside her, trapping her between him and the window. She cursed her carelessness. He was way too close for her liking. In the last few years, she hadn't let anyone in this close, besides from when she handed out papers and reports to others.
«And the brown contacts,» he added, pulling her glasses off her nose bridge. Quickly trying to snap them back didn't work as he moved them out of her reach, twirling in his hand. The plane came in position and the belt sign light up, indicating they had to keep their belts on and stay seated under the going up. She sighed and turned away from him, stared outside the window as they went faster and faster down the track before taking off into the air. The plane was slightly shaking and before long, it stopped and became pleasantly quiet.
«They're not even real glasses,» Brick stated, staring at the plastic.
«Of course not,» Blossom answered him, leaning on her elbow. «We're superhuman, all our senses are perfect.»
«So why the glasses, and contacts?» he wondered, staring at the pink junk. There was no metal under the lenses, and it made her eyes look more bright and contoured. Despite the lack of need for them, she liked wearing them.
«If you haven't noticed, nobody else on the planet has pink eyes. It's an exotic color, and it scares people. Most has brown eyes. The glasses makes me look less perfect, for some reason,» she answered him.
«You want to be ordinary and mix in?» he said, and she snapped her head in his direction. He looked genuinely curious.
«Of course I do. Don't you?» It was stupid to ask, because she already knew the answer. The Rowdyruff boys were proud of their powers, and used every chance they got to demonstrate them.
«Na. I like being extraordinary. I'm keeping the glasses. You'll get them after a week of work at my company.» Blossom rolled her eyes, telling how to do whatever he wanted. He owned her, but only for a year. She could keep out with him for twelve months if it involved him being the boss. It meant she didn't have to see him more often than once a month for briefing on how things were going, and secretly, she had wanted to go come to see her sisters. Brick told her how boring she had become, and switched seats, leaving her alone. She hid a smile. Just like she planned. If he didn't get any response on his mischievous games, he grew bored and quickly moved on. Still the same child as in preschool. He left her alone the rest of the flight, and she almost thanked him for it.
As the flight went down several hours later, Blossom woke up to the plane shaking. They landed without any problems and as they exited, Brick left her there, telling her they would meet again tomorrow. She sighed and ignored him, and breathed in the fresh air. Better call Buttercup or Bubbles to pick me up, she thought as she fished her phone out of her pocket. They were never going to believe what had just happened. It ringed once, twice, three times before she picked up.
«Blossom! I can't believe you're calling me, how are you? What are you up to? How is work?» The redhead laughed, pulling her suitcases after her and toward the parking. «I'll tell you everything. Can you come and pick me up at the airport?»
«You're here?» Bubbles screeched in the other end. «Oh my god, yes, straight away. I'll be right there,» was the last thing she said before hanging up. The pinkette chuckled to herself. The sun was nearly behind the horizon, taking the cold with it. Blossom didn't mind. Ice and low temperature had never been a big deal to her. The girl could breath ice if she wanted to, after all. It took some time, but the baby blue car swung up to her in no time, and her little sister practically tackled her through the car window.
«I've missed you so much! Why didn't you tell us you were coming home so early? We could have been here to pick you up at once. Or at least I could have. Buttercup is still at work. I sent her a text an hour ago.» Blossom chuckled as she opened the trunk and started loading. «You have a lot with you,» Bubbles stated as they opened the door to the back seat and pushed the rest in there.
«Everything,» Blossom said as she sat in the car, her blue sister starting the engine.
«Everything? No way, are you moving back to Townsville?» Her bright smile made it almost worth it, if it hadn't been for her employer and reason she was there.
«Brick didn't give me a choice.» The blond eyebrows went way far up in her forehead and Bubbles gaped.
«Wait, back up. What happened? What do you mean Brick? As in the Brick Jojo?» Blossom nodded her head.
«I'll tell you everything when we get to Buttercups. I hope she doesn't mind me crashing there until I can find my own place. It was kind of right away. And I'm kind of sorry about your art job. I know how much it meant to you.» A sad expression came upon her sisters face, before she brushed it off.
«It'll be alright.» They talked about old times on the short trip home, and their sour faces had quickly turned together with the happy memories. As they entered Buttercup's apartment, they were both laughing loud, until they laid eyes on their green sister.
«Buttercup. I didn't think you'd be home before later, or tomorrow,» Bubbles said, wrinkling her eyebrows. Their green eyed sister stared at her older sibling, mouth half agape.
«I'm home?» Blossom said, uncertain. Buttercup was always explosive, and it rarely was any good. The green puff closer her mouth before going in for a hug. It was tight and almost hurt her. It said so much more than words ever could, and Blossom understood. She hugged back and stroke her back. «I'm home. Sorry for leaving.»
«Moron,» Buttercup muttered and they heard Bubbles giggle as she joined in on the hug. They hadn't seen her in years, and it felt a lot better to be home. When they pulled apart, all three were smiling.
«I have something to tell you,» both Blossom and Buttercup said in union, and the oldest gestured for her to speak. «Butch bought up the bar I worked at, Izis backside. He came in and gloated about it. Not even 5 minutes later, I'm fired.» Blossom gasped dramatically and gave her en extra hug. «I'm so sorry,» she said at the same time and the green girl waved it off.
«That's weird. Brick bought me up today. Sounds weird, but I had a presentation, and companies makes offers, and I went for the highest without knowing it came from him. He even picked me up and put me on the plane here. I start tomorrow,» the pink girl sighed. «Could I stay over, pretty please? Just until I find my own place.»
«No worries,» Buttercup waved her hand before becoming serious again. «Him contacted me. He crashed my car, then fixed it, and made me an offer.» Blossom was concentrating hard.
«An offer?» she encouraged.
«To get ride of the Jojo boys.»
«Him cannot be trusted,» Blossom said, waving with her hands, making her point come strongly out.
«I understand that,» Buttercup hissed. «Gee, I'm not an idiot, Bossy. I declined and came right home, which reminds me. Did you forget to lock the door?» she placed her hands on her hips and stared at the blond sister, whom had been silent until then.
«I- Ah, I think I might have forgotten it again when Blossom called. It just came so fast over me. I'm really sorry.» She placed a finger on her chin and looked down, reminding of an ashamed dog.
«Again?» Buttercup asked.
«Yeah, I did once when I was fetching my things out of the car earlier today, but your neighbor came and checked on you, so it's all right.» They both saw Buttercup's eyes widen and her hand standing on ends.
«Which one?» Bubbles took a few seconds to think over it, before remembering him.
«He said his name was Ace and that you guys are friends. Even though he thought I was your girlfriend and he had always suspected you of being a dyke.» The green girl let out a howl before storming off into her room. The two remaining girls shared a look, both clueless.
«It's gone,» Buttercup shouted, before storming past them and into the hallway, going straight for Ace's door. She started banging and shouting, demanding her money back. Bubbles face became really sad realizing how badly she had messed things up, and she lowered her head even more. Blossom patted her shoulder and flashed her a calming smile.
«Have you seen Boomer? It can't be a coincidence that both Brick and Butch is in our lives again.» The blond girl met her eyes and shook her head.
«I haven't seen him at all, for years.»
«Do be careful. I'm pretty sure he's going to show up.» The hand squeezed the shoulder, trying to support her as best she could.
Thoughts? If you like it, please leave a review on what you enjoyed the most. I don't know when I will update again, but my intention is to keep writing on this story.
