Therapy
Written by MarySueIsDead
Chapter 13: Her - Part 1
XOXOX
It began where it all ended.
With a fracture in her heart…
The monster let out one last wicked laugh before thrusting its claws into her chest. Her rib cage collapsed inward at the force and an insufferable pain sliced through her heart as the creature cruelly clutched the sensitive organ.
She reactively grabbed the forearm of the beast. Her bloodshot eyes straining with the internal puncture. Her withered voice raspily let out a response. "No."
"You're. Too. LATE! " The demonic creature hissed hatefully.
Fresh blood came up from her throat and stained her ivory teeth as she grated her molars together. She let out an excruciating moan.
Why was this happening...again? This horrible nightmare. Would she forever have these tortuous delusions; this beast ripping the life out of her? Feeding all this remorse towards Phoebe, towards everything? She tightly closed her eyes as she felt it squeeze her heart. She pushed these thoughts away, away from the guilt, and attempted to think of something positive.
Bliss.
Her sapphire eyes opened as she witnessed the monster again. That's it. Something Bliss would say. Some encouraging words from one of their many sessions. She couldn't give in to this- hate for herself; this manifested creature.
She glowered at the shadowy creation as it's black smoke started filling the crushed cabin of the truck; suffocating her senses. She shouted with all her might. "No. I'm right...HERE!"
The mangled passenger side door of the pickup was yanked off and a ray of light pierced through the dark beast. It immediately screamed and a strong mechanical arm wrapped around the demon's throat from behind.
The wounded blonde gasped as its clutches escaped from her chest and the monster was violently pulled out of the truck, revealing the silhouette of a powerful figure holding the wailing creature against the illuminating rays. The mysterious heroine arched back their free hand and with a hasty swoop, pummeled a mighty fist into the gut of the shadow. It went flying into the sky as the figure watched it soar and then altered their attention back to the vehicle. They strode over and reached their machine-like hand into the cabin.
"Come on. Get up."
Helga blinked several times before she touched the mechanical fingers with her own. "B-…B-Bliss?"
The rays of light dwindled, revealing the features of her savior.
"Y-...You're….You're a cyborg with pink hair and a peg leg!?" The teenager exclaimed perplexed yet enthused.
Bliss grabbed Helga's hand and helped her out of the truck from the passenger side. The blonde stumbled to her feet as she dropped on to the asphalt of the intersection. She peered up at the older woman. Half of her form was made of fine metal and electronics. She had bright pink hair cut short, and a wooden pegleg attached to the organic side of her body. Her clothing was a resemblance of her usual professional attire, but torn and tattered like she just walked out of some zombie apocalypse. Oh, man, were zombies going to show up? That would be soooo cool.
Bliss held onto her hand the whole time. "Come on. You can do it."
The teenager pressed against her knee and achingly stood up, then clutched her chest. The lethal puncture was smaller, like it had started to heal itself. "Where…?" She glanced around. The light post was still lying where the truck had collided with it. The intersection was barren and fairly quiet with only the faint hum of street lights changing from green to red. Until another noise could be heard. The sound of wind whistling. She glanced up at the shadow that dropped through the air and then splatted to the ground. It's body instantly dismembered into gooey chunks and the hand bounced over to where they stood.
The fingers of the claw twitched appallingly until it poofed into a cloud of black smoke and drifted away.
Bliss altered her head and peered at Helga's chest where the hole had now mended completely. "How are you feeling?"
The blonde gazed up, surprised. The demon was gone, for now, and Bliss. She- she was here! "Much better."
"Don't let it feed on you again. That's yours. To keep."
A smile found its way to her lips. "Wow." She became enamored by the figure standing next to her in this foggy yet clear slumbering-state. Bliss had never come to her in a dream before. This was amazing. Plus, she was a freakin' cybernetic superhero! Helga admitted she may have also been reading too many comic books lately. She spoke earnestly. "This is probably the coolest dream I've ever had. Well, besides that one time when I was President and got to kick Lila's ass."
"That's just it. You turned a nightmare into a dream. You did that."
She came closer, still holding onto the older woman's fingers tightly. "Is this like, one of those situations where all your teachings are finally breaking through my subconscious and I'm...I'm healing or something!?"
Bliss squinted her eyes; the mechanical one flickered in thought. "Hmm, I can't tell you that for sure. But I think you're definitely on the right path to a breakthrough."
Helga shoved her free hand into the air excitedly. "Criminy, you just- whacked that thing into the sky! And then it splattered like a bug on a windshield! Oh, man, what else can you do? Can you fly? Can you shoot lasers from your eyes?" She gasped and her blue eyes widened. "Can we make out!?"
Bliss raised her organic brow. "What?"
"What?"
"What was that last part?"
"I…uh...I said, can we get take out?"
The woman released a soft chuckle and shook her head. "You're a weird kid."
Helga awkwardly scrunched her facial features. "I know…" She was just wondering if this was going to turn into one of those dreams...
Bliss grinned down at her. She looked just like she had all those years ago. Sitting in her chair in that comfortable office. Jotting down notes with an understanding gaze in her eyes as Helga would confess another embarrassing secret. Well, that, but now with some upgrades.
The blonde instantly felt the weight of her impending awaking, and she teared up. "Oh, Bliss." She leapt forward and wrapped her arms around the taller woman's waist. And to her joy, Bliss returned the embrace. "I wish you were really here. I miss you. I miss you so damn much. I'm trying so hard, but I'm barely hanging in there...I-...I'm not sure what to do about Rhonda. I'm not sure what to do about Phoebe. Even that corny footballhead! I'm trying to do the right thing but...everything feels so weird like my emotions are tumbling around in a washing machine! Please, Bliss-you said this may be some sort of breakthrough! What does it mean?"
Before the cyborg woman could respond, there was a booming knock that echoed through the air. It alarmingly trailed through the intersection and the street. The was another knock. And then another. Oh no. No, not yet. She spoke frantically. "Bliss, what's it me-!"
~2003~
The door to Helga's room opened. "Wakey wakey, baby sister." The older sibling said as she applied her earrings and glanced down at the watch on her wrist. "I have meeting at seven so we're going to have to head out here soon."
Helga opened her blue eyes and immediately squinted at the clock on her nightstand. The fuzzy numbers read 6:13 AM. She released a groan; her voice came out groggy and irritated. She altered them to the entryway of her room; a blurry representation of Olga was standing there. "You had to wake me up two minutes before my alarm? Olga, do you know what you've done? I was probably having the most important dream of my young life! THOSE TWO MINUTES ARE LIKE, THIRTY MINUTES IN DREAM TIME!"
Olga's hands dropped from her ears and they fell onto her hips. She obviously didn't want to hear it. "Well, I'm glad you're in such a good mood, because I've decided, you're going to drive us this morning!"
That woke her up fully. The blonde teenager's eyes widened and she sat up; her covers falling into her lap, revealing her bare form. "I'm what?"
"You heard me. I think it's a splendid idea, and don't pretend you don't still have your permit. Now, come on, lazy bones. Otherwise you won't have time for breakfast." She chided lightly as she walked away and Helga pushed away the covers, setting her feet to the floor beside her bed. She hunched forward and massaged her dreary eyes. God freaking dammit, what was Bliss going to tell her? It was up there. In her jumbled brain somewhere. The answers!
She groaned frustrated then attempted to focus on the ground at her discarded clothes from yesterday. The blonde picked up the shirt and brought it close to her face to inspect. Flecks of ash remained and small holes from embers. She threw the pink shirt across the room and pondered for a moment, then shouted. "Hey, OLG'!"
The older sister responded somewhere throughout the house. "YES, BABY SISTER?"
"CAN I BORROW SOME CLOTHES? MINE ARE ALL DIRTY!" It wasn't completely true, but she was rather bored of her current wardrobe. Now was a better time than ever to start experimenting. "IT'S THE LEAST YOU COULD DO SINCE YOU WOKE ME UP TWO MINUTES EARLY!"
There was an audible sigh. "YES."
Helga stood up and put on her crooked glasses, then grabbed a bra and underwear from the dresser nearby and headed to Olga's room. She sighed as she attempted to let go of the dream. FOR NOW. Maybe Bliss would come back later that night as she slept, and the older woman could finally answer all her festering questions, and then they could soar up into the clouds, because she was definitely going to give her flying powers next time!
When she reached the familiar space, she covered her nose and let out a small cough. Olga's perfume permeated the walls and carpet. Some sweet, french sounding crap that Rhonda also used on occasion. 'Grand et Parfait'. It smelled worse than it sounded.
She walked past the neatly made bed and organized shelves to the closet. Helga opened the door and began rummaging through the shirts and pants. She attempted to find something different than what she usually wore. Something that wasn't completely pink or plain. To her surprise, she eventually found a black t-shirt only to be disappointed by the colorful characters printed on the front. It screamed RATS! She sighed and shouted again. "OLGA, DON'T YOU HAVE ANYTHING COOL?"
The eldest sister finally appeared by the open door of her room. "I'm sorry my wardrobe isn't to your liking. It's not like it was suited for me or anything." She commented sarcastically as she made her way over to where Helga was standing by the rejected hanging garments.
The young blonde shrugged. "Help a sister out."
Olga rolled her eyes and reached above the hanging clothes for a cardboard box on a shelf. She held it in her arms as she brushed the dust off the lid and handed it over to the teenager. "Some of my old college stuff is in here. It might be more your style."
Helga curiously opened it up and spotted a few worn t-shirts, plaid, and denim. She crouched down and set the box to the ground to rummage further. She discovered a ripped jean jacket, assorted grey tees, but nothing black. Guess she would eventually have to apply for that job Olga wanted her to get so much if she wanted a wardrobe to her particular taste. She took one of the shirts and speculated the print on the front. "Who are The Blueberries?"
"I suppose you could say they were the Dr Iron Claw of my time. I can't believe you don't know who The Blueberries are. Didn't you ever hear me play their tape over and over again in my room?"
"No. Honestly, I droned out whatever noise came from this horrid sugary dungeon as much as physically possible."
"Well, they were a COOL band." She responded irritably and crossed her arms. "And your options are limited, miss."
Helga raised a hesitant brow. From the faded print, the band didn't look anything like Dr Iron Claw. Not awesome, toe-curling, blood-pumping, punk rock. More like depressing, cry-and-eat-a-gallon-of-ice-cream, grunge. Yet, beggars couldn't be choosers, and she slipped the tee and the blue flannel button up under her arm when she noticed another article of fabric. The young blonde then found a pair of ripped charcoal colored jeans near the bottom of the box and smirked. She held them up for view and said jokingly. "Well, at least I found something worth wearing."
She stood up and started to get dressed as Olga nitpicked the neatly made bed. She fluffed the pillow as she casually spoke. "By the way, there's an office party thing this Friday with all the teachers and faculty of the school. So, I'll be out...for a while." She stated as she looked over to the younger sister.
Helga pulled the ripped jeans up her lanky legs and buttoned them after a swift zip. Her thoughts then raced and she tried to not smile. "Huh. Good to know." She commented and grabbed the flannel, pushing her arms through the soft fabric. She then quickly illustrated a generic response. "I mean, I'm grounded so, I'll probably just watch the boob tube for a couple hours then pass out." She grinned a little too wide at the end there.
Olga raised an apprehensive brow and set the pillow back to it's spot on the bed. "Or you could search for job ads in the paper. Put your little fingers to work writing applications." She said as she then turned her heel and walked out of the room.
Helga rolled her blue eyes and sighed as she ran her fingers through her unruly pink and blonde hair. She could invite someone or someones over and things would be WAY more interesting than glancing through some stupid paper.
The teenager spotted the decorative bottle of perfume in the corner of her eye on one of Olga's shelves. She sneakily took the glass and gave a spritz to her neck before setting it back and skipped to the hallway and down the stairs for something to eat.
XOXOX
"Wow, I'm so happy you're letting me borrow this. I've read books one through five and really enjoyed every moment of Blorp's investigations on Jupiter. Does she ever get promoted to homicide?" Arnold's green eyes widened and he audibly gasped. "Does she ever find where 'Gallacto' is holding the remaining victims of the Voyager City attack?" He then paused and thought to himself. "I bet his main base is on Callisto."
Phoebe chucked kindly. Her mother had dropped her off at the high school quite early since the woman had an appointment and errands she needed to tend to. She was sitting on the front steps, re-reading the latest installment of Rebecca Platt's 'The Space Between Us'; a thrilling sci-fi mystery slash adventure, when a familiar footballheaded teenager walked up and began chatting with her. "Jupiter has sixty four moons, Arnold. You'll just have to read it and see."
Honestly, she didn't mind the distraction. Her mind was still reeling from the night before. Did all that really happen? Did she actually initiate the kiss with Lex? She kept replaying the scenario in her mind. She could remember the way the unfamiliar girl's lips tasted. She could remember the scents and sounds of the marina. And then there was Gerald, who witnessed the whole thing. So it HAD to have happened.
Everytime she recalled the moments, a titillating feeling blossomed at the pit of her stomach and then was shorty swapped with the sinking sensation of guilt. She had lied to her parents, her mother especially. How would she start that lovely conversation? Fortunately, she didn't think Gerald would tell a soul, even though he was the keeper of tall tales. His stories remained fictional and she was very grateful for that.
He smiled earnestly. "Well, thanks again for letting me borrow this and agreeing to check out my club. If I get enough people to join, maybe I can host a book reading or something."
Phoebe was about to respond when she spotted Olga's sedan out of the corner of her eye. She absentmindedly spoke as the vehicle parked by the curb and Helga stood out from the driver's side. "That sounds…" She trailed off as Olga got out of the vehicle as well, rounded the front to hug her younger sister and then stepped back into the sedan. The vehicle drove off as Helga noticed the duo and made her way to the front steps of the building. She grinned and held up her hand in a greeting as her pink and golden hair glistened under the morning sun; her single notebook and pencil tucked under her arm.
Phoebe noticed the change in attire; the navy blue flannel bringing out the sapphire color in Helga's eyes. The dark jeans, the worn band t-shirt. That tickling feeling flourished in her stomach again. She hadn't seen Helga wear something other than pink for quite a while. She found herself smiling involuntarily. She really liked it. She managed a greeting back. "Good morning."
"Morning, Helga." Arnold smiled chivalrously.
"Good morning." She said more to Phoebe than Arnold.
"Were you driving?" The shorter girl asked inquisitively.
Helga crossed her arms and scoffed. "It's part of my punishment for yesterday."
"What happened yesterday?" Arnold asked, and Phoebe was curious too, however, she planned on questioning Helga in a more private manner.
The blonde girl motioned for him to scoot to the left so she could sit between them on the concrete steps. He did and as she sat, she noticed the pink bow entwined into the purple ribbons around Phoebe's right forearm. She would definitely have to bring that up later. "It's a long story. Privy to selective people." She noticed the book in Arnold's hands and immediately changed the subject. "'The Space Between Us'? Arnoldo, I didnt think youd be interested in sci-fi fantasy. I figure 'Anne of Green Gables' would be more your style."
"I like all kinds, Helga. And Phoebe's letting me borrow the latest book so I can catch up!"
Helga glanced over to Phoebe. The shorter girl was all too happy to see her blonde friend. "I didn't know you liked the series." Doi. Of course she didn't know. Because SHE was the one that stopped all contact six years ago. Helga guiltily cleared her throat. "It's like- one of my favorite book series of all time."
Phoebe's grin widened. "Me too!" A light blush crept through the tops of her cheeks. "Rebecca Platt is one of my all time favorite authors. What's your favorite part out of the series so far?"
Helga shook her head. "Always at it with the questions." Hence, again, probably the six year absence. She was still trying to get used to this 'fresh start' thing between them. The blonde girl placed her hand on her mouth in thought. "Probably the backstory of how Blorp's lizard-man boyfriend was murdered in cold blood. No pun intended. His brutal death by the Asteroid Gang is totally what sparked her to become a cop. Also, all the flashback scenes of them fucking. Who doesn't love interspecies alien sex? What about you?" Yes, let's please continue to pretend hair boy isn't here. Not that she wasn't on good terms with Arnold, but it was early. And he was really cramping her vibes right now.
Phoebe chuckled and gave a coy wink. "I have to agree, the romance scenes are written very well. However, in book four, when Blorp and her partner Cuckie travel to Neptune on a mission to find the lost city of the Neptunians, they stumble upon the abandoned factory of the StarLight Corporation, where we find out that the Neptunians were genetically altered human clones made BY the StarLight Corporation for free labor production. The Neptunians we're slaves, and it had been going on for hundreds of thousands of years!"
Helga smirked at her friend's enthusiasm. "You just like saying Neptunians."
Phoebe pursed her lips and shrugged simply. "Maybe I do."
Arnold interjected. "That's one of my favorite parts too! I really enjoy the mystery Rebecca adds into each book. And plus, Blorp never had a better partner than Cuckie. He went too soon…" The teenage boy shook his head and Helga mentally gagged. She glanced over at him.
"Arnoldo, Cuckie shot a laser blast into his thigh and died from infection. He was an idiot and Blorp is way better off without him." She rolled her eyes.
"Yes, but you can't deny, Helga, that he had a pure heart and was the most loyal partner. He charged into so many battles between Blorp and the Asteroid Gang to save her butt."
Now she physically gagged. "Because he was an IDIOT! She never told him to do that! Blorp always told him to hold behind cover, but he just- DID what he wanted to do!" Helga exhaled and peered over to the shorter girl. "Come on, Pheebs, back me up here!"
Phoebe released a laugh she was holding in as she watched the two bicker. "I'm going to have to agree with Helga, Arnold. I wouldn't want Cuckie as a partner."
He sighed, defeated. "Well, I would." He responded as he stood up with the book. But before leaving he directed his attention towards the blonde girl. "By the way Helga, I'd be happy to take you glasses shopping after school today. That is if you're not busy. Might as well order them sooner rather than later." His optimistic tone returned.
Damn, she couldn't conjure a good enough excuse to get out of this one. No, sorry, Arnold, I have to uh...alphabetize my Wrestlemania trading cards for the next two weeks? Plus, the crooked frames of her current glasses were starting to strain her eyes as she focused through the cracks. "I'm free as a bird, Shortman." She retorted dryly.
"Great! Well, I'll meet you on the field at around three thirty." He nodded to the shorter girl. "Thanks again, Phoebe. I'll see you ladies later!" He said as he walked up the steps and into the building with a few other students.
Helga moaned unhappily as she slouched into the concrete stairs. "You couldn't have backed me up on that one?"
"What're you talking about? Helga, You most certainly NEED new glasses."
"Yeah...eventually, but you could've said you and I were hanging out."
"Oh?" A modest grin returned to her lips. "Are you implying something?"
"Well, turns out, Olga is going to be out of the house on Friday, if you want to...come over? We can do whatever you want to do! Oh, but if you need another reason, I have 'The Abyss' on VHS." She bounced her eyebrows playfully.
Phoebe commented in a teasing manner. "Oh my goodness, we could watch 'The Abyss' AND do whatever I want to do? That sounds mighty tempting."
Helga nudged her companion's arm. "Only if you please tell me you one hundred percent never liked Cuckie."
Phoebe slipped out a giggle and then hesitated before responding. "It's like...seventy five percent."
The blonde teen groaned audibly. "No, Pheebs, say it isn't so!"
"It's not just Cuckie! All the Ratillians have some very hilarious gut-busting one liners! They're like, the brutish dwarves of space!"
Helga smiled at her friend. Obviously she was kidding. Kind of. "Rebecca Platt actually attended an event a while back in Baltimore and I got books one through three signed. She's super cool."
"No way? I actually wrote to her publisher a couple years ago, explaining how the series…well, benefited my sanity while I was recovering. She wrote me back and I-..." She released a sheepish chuckle. "I actually framed the letter." She gently pushed Helga back. "So I can't completely dislike Cuckie. She created his character and wrote him."
"Point taken." Her blue eyes then glanced down to Phoebe's arms. Now that buzzkill was gone, they could actually have a conversation. "You wear it way better than I ever did." She spoke quietly, referring to the pink ribbon. The realization hit her. It's wasn't hers anymore. It was now Phoebe's. Any sort of footballhead-obsessed past that the ribbon held in her heart, was gone. All she could do was witness how wonderful it graced Miss Heyerdahl's features.
"I beg to differ. However, I am truly honored to wear it." She grinned as she gazed down and faintly touched the bow that was tied at her wrist. She then looked back up and scooted closer to her companion on the steps. "Now, are you ever going to let me in on what happened yesterday? My mother said you called and sounded pretty distressed."
Helga let out a disgruntled sigh. "Ugh, well, first, I guess I should apologize. I don't usually disappear like that. I'm MORE reliable than that. Shit's just been bat shit crazy lately. I don't want you to think I'm avoiding you. Because I'm not. I really DO want us to hang out more."
Phoebe's posture softened and she relished the eye contact the two shared. "Well, I won't say I wasn't worried. I did my best to keep my calm and not assume. You don't have to disclose all the details; I'm just content you're safe, and here."
Helga then became silent as her eyes drifted and she stared down at the stains in the concrete. A far away look reflected in those blue irises. Phoebe placed a reassuring hand upon her friend's back. "Hey. Did something...happen?"
The blonde exhaled heavily before speaking. "Something. Everything is fine, but…" She turned back to stare at Phoebe directly. "I think we need to talk."
XOXOX
She sat in her first class, rather dazed and astounded from what happened just around a half hour ago. After leaving the front steps of the school and heading inside, the two girls made their way to a secluded row of books in the library, it made her nostalgic of old times. And then, Helga confessed everything.
"I'm not...I'm not sure what to say."
"That's okay. I'm sure it's a shock. I just thought you should know the truth. I don't want to keep anything from you. Not anymore."
She brought her nail to her mouth and chewed on it thought. Rhonda and Helga. Helga and Rhonda. She knew they had become close but...she never imagined that It could've escalated into anything more. She couldn't figure out which part shook her the most. The fact that it was Rhonda Wellington Lloyd, the pompous princess from PS 118 or the fact that it was Rhonda Wellington Lloyd, one of the hottest and most regal teenagers at Hillwood High. The fact that it had been going on so long. The fact that…
Her breathing became labored as she fell back upon recollections of her dream from nights ago. Of last night with Lex. She bent forward and pressed her forehead into the heel of her palms as she stared down at the carvings in the student desk. What was she supposed to do? Just let fate and her hormones take over? That wasn't rational. But was the whole world supposed to be rational? Which part was she supposed to focus on? Maybe she liked both boys and girls? What would her parents think? What would they say? She would usually go to her mother with such questions, but she had fear. Sure, society was becoming more lenient on such issues, but she couldn't bear losing her family like that. Not again. Not after she had recently lost…
The notion trailed off and she held the tears behind her eyes. Threatening to leak through.
"I just...I just hope we can still be friends…And you don't think I'm...disgusting."
"Helga...I c-...I could never think that about you."
The fact that Helga felt some sort of tainted way about herself, was completely wrong. Yet, how could she begin to fathom that way about her own self? If she could believe Helga was beautiful just the way she was, flaws and all; she could start to believe that about her mind and body as well. She didn't want to hold spite inside, and let it eat away at her soul. She could accept what was happening to her. She could accept herself.
"Phoebe, are you alright?" The teacher paused his lecture as he strode to the spot beside her desk. "You look a little pale."
The shorter girl quickly looked up and blinked the puffiness away in her eyes. She meekly nodded. "Yes, Mr. Wolfe. Thank you, I'm fine."
He walked away, towards the front of the class and she released a heavy breath.
"I just…I don't want to lose you again, Pheebs."
She moved up her fingers and felt the damp tears of her friend soaked into her shoulder from their last embrace.
"Helga...oh, Helga I don't want to lose you again either. That's the last thing I want to happen."
XOXOX
Miss Heyerdahl left her first class once the bell rang; her spirits feeling lighter. Helga's truth settling within her. She smiled to herself as she walked down the hall and headed towards the cafeteria to grab a snack before next period, when a pair of voices caught her attention a few lockers away.
"This will definitely set you on the right path with your father to getting back those college funds! How else are you supposed to buy me expensive gifts if you're not in a high-end, well paying career? That was a joke by the way. Sort of."
Rhonda was in the middle of rubbing her forehead as she responded to the shorter teenage boy. "Yeah, well, this was all your idea to begin with, so I'm glad you're attempting to fix it."
"My idea!? I did not force your hand to light those fireworks, my dear."
She dropped her hand and crossed her arms. A smirk found its way onto her lips. "Well, it was your fault for encouraging me."
Curly scratched his chin and glanced down at the shimmering plastic outfits that resided in his arms. "Hmm, yes, I am very guilty for that."
Phoebe bolstered her courage as she adjusted the knapsack hanging over her shoulders and strode up to the duo. Her complexion warmed up, especially towards Rhonda. "Hello, you two." She gave a polite bow.
The boy's amber eyes widened behind his glasses for a moment, and he smiled at the surprising gesture while Rhonda's posture stiffened and she altered her face away. Obviously, not entirely comfortable in this current moment.
Curly returned the bow and greeted her. "Hello, my dear, Phoebe, I haven't seen your cute little button face for a hot minute!"
"Likewise, however, you both look at fabulous as ever."
A boisterous laugh escaped from his mouth and he held his chest. "Oh, this is actually an off day for us, but flattery will get you everywhere! What can I do for you? Or, are you here for Li-Li? Because I have a pair of heels in my locker that I can whip on before you can say 'Gammelthorpe'." He beamed a confident toothy grin.
"Well, Thaddeus, I overheard you were pursuing football tryouts this Friday. I just want to let you know I send you my support, and I'd be happy to cheer you on from the stands."
He stumbled back in awe and placed a hand back over his sternum and cooed. "Aww. Thank you. At least someone appreciates me!" He subtly jabbed towards the taller girl.
She gestured to the black plastic that resided in his arms. "Do you need any help throwing that away? I was actually going to stop by the cafeteria to purchase a snack before next period. I don't mind tossing it for you."
"Oh, how polite." He commented again, and Rhonda's awkwardness flurried as she shifted her weight on her feet. "But no, this isn't actually trash. They're sauna suits! We're going to sweat out all the toxins from summer, and lay way to a fresh school year. Isn't that right, Rhonda?"
The wealthy teenager hesitated before responding and bit her tongue. "Yes."
Phoebe's hazel eyes widened. "You're both detoxing? Wow, what a gallant effort!"
He waved his hand. "Well, mostly Rhonda, I'm just doing it with her for emotional support. Contrary to popular belief, I actually don't drink that much and I do not smoke marijuana, however, I do attend almost all of Rhonda's parties because I love to dance, and I get to wear her clothes!" He smiled brightly again.
Phoebe held up a finger as she recited. "My father always says, 'If we are facing the right direction, all we have to do is keep on walking.'"
His hand rose to his mouth in amazement. "Oh my lord, that is my absolute favorite proverb of all time! Girl, how come we never talked much before?"
She gave a modest shrug. "I presume it was because I lived in Kentucky for the past several years."
"Oh, right, right, that whole thing. Well, anyway, Rhonda imploded her father's convertible yesterday and now she's in a whole heap of trouble! He nastily yanked her college funds from under her feet and is going to use it to pay for another sporty death trap! So, now we're trying to clean her act up to smooth things out." He lightly nudged Rhonda in the side. "I tell ya, that man could use some more buddhism in his life, and less of the hooch, if you catch my drift!"
The taller teen's face flushed bright red as she finally joined the conversation. She directed her attention toward her blathering friend. "Did you HAVE to say all that about the car thing? AND the college thing?"
His features became confused. "What? Oh, Rhonda, don't worry about it, honey. I'm sure the whole school knows by now."
The tension from Rhonda's temper physically rose as she dropped her arms from her chest and tightened her fists. Phoebe tactfully intervened. "I actually wanted to speak to you as well, Rhonda."
The wealthy girl altered her glowering eyes towards the Miss Heyerdahl; the dark glare pierced through her confidence, but there was a spark of curiosity. Phoebe managed to keep her voice cool and collected. "I'm positively sure you currently have a very busy agenda. However, I was wondering if...in the future, I could...buy you lunch sometime? Or, if you're ever in need of a tutor, I'd be happy to help you in any subject, free of charge."
"Awwww." Curly gushed, and Rhonda's demeanor softened, however her voice was hard.
"Look, Pheebs, I know you're just trying to be nice and all, but right now really isn't a good ti-"
"Well, well, if it isn't the froot loop and the frootettes?" Wolfgang interjected as he walked up to the group with one of his lackeys. "Still feeling that knuckle sandwich we gave you yesterday?" He sneered towards Curly and lightly punched the side of his torso while his minion cackled next to him.
Rhonda bared her teeth and snarled. "How DARE YOU!" She took a step forward and pushed the bulky teen back. "Let's take this outside; I'll fucking drag your ass on the concrete!"
"Woah!" Curly exclaimed, also coming forward and placing a hand upon his friend's chest to stop her. "Honey, you do not need to be looking for trouble right now. You need to stay OUT of trouble."
"I don't fucking care!"
"Don't say that! You do care! You do care, Rhon'! I can handle this!"
She drilled her blazing brown eyes into Wolfgang's smug face. "I can handle it too! These assholes have gone on long enough treating you like dog shit under their shoes! What!? Because he's GAY he's not a fucking human being!?"
Finally, Curly moved his palm upon her cheek and made her face him. The glaze of hatred in her eyes scared him, only because he knew what she was capable of. When all her liabilities flew out the window, he was the one that either had to be responsible and calm her from this firestorm, or encourage her and throw fuel onto the flames. He wasn't usually good at that first choice. He begged. "Rhonnie, please, baby, don't. This isn't your battle to fight."
Her face softened a smidge, but she still held a firm and spiteful determination. "But it is." Her voice cracked.
Curly's heart swooned, but he couldn't let her do it. He couldn't let her get hurt or hurt herself like that. He was about to regretfully decline her offer when they both noticed Phoebe now standing between them and the two meaty teenagers.
Miss Heyerdahl stared at the two young men that scowled down at her mockingly, and her back nervously tensed in the brace she wore around her waist. Stay calm. Just breathe. She found her voice and spoke as sternly as she could muster. "I think it's best if you leave."
Wolfgang released a hearty chuckle. "What? I'm supposed to be afraid of you? Some teeny little punk?" He scoffed as he moved his hand and roughly flicked her on the shoulder.
She stood her ground and glared up at him. She had faced bullies before. Then she was timid, but still somewhat brave. Now, she actually worried about her injuries, about the horrible pain if something were to happen. She felt the emotions bubble up to her eyes, yet she gritted her teeth and controlled herself. She was on the verge of crying, ready for whatever blow were to happen. She wasn't just sweet, innocent, Phoebe anymore. She had an obligation. She had to stand up for what was right and what was just. "I said, LEAVE!"
He grimaced at her and she returned the firm look. There were a few moments of hesitation before he awkwardly chortled this time. His friend was quiet. "Well, looks like your butchy girlfriends saved you today, freak. You might not be so lucky tomorrow." He ended distastefully as he waved his hand in a gesture, and the two walked down the hall, around the corner and out of sight.
Phoebe released a shallow breath as she lifted up her arm, and attempted to still her trembling hand. She felt like she was going to be sick. She closed it into a fist and closed her watery hazel eyes, turning around slowly.
Before a stunned Curly and Rhonda could say anything, Phoebe spoke up quickly, anxiously. "I'll um...I'll leave you two to your detoxing. Have a pleasant day." She left them standing there, and started to wander away, towards the girls bathroom.
Rhonda glanced at her companion who had an expression of awe upon his face; he had involuntarily dropped the plastic suits to the ground. She then turned to the back of the shorter girl walking down the hall. She started a jog and caught up with Phoebe's hastened pace, placing a hand upon her shoulder, noticing Miss Heyerdahl shaking slightly. "Pheebs, wait."
Phoebe reluctantly stopped and turned to the taller girl. "Yes?" He eyes were probably puffy again. She might've been better with confrontations in the past. But she would be lying if she didn't think that Wolfgang had it in him to sock her right in the gut and toss her like a rag doll. The imaginings brought tension to her spine and made it ache.
Rhonda paused as she drew in the quivering features of Phoebe's face. Her own disposition had softened greatly. She simply nodded. "Yeah. Yeah, I'd...I'd love to hangout sometime."
XOXOX
Helga patiently stood outside the classroom, waiting for Phoebe to get out. The bell had rung just minutes ago, and she made her way over as fast as she could, in worry of just missing her friend. She owed Pheebs a lunch period she sure as heck was going to give her. No more shenanigans this time.
She nibbled on her bottom lip as students casually exited the room. No sight of her companion yet. Her skin crawled. All that stuff she said a couple hours ago. Was it too much? Was the timing wrong? She still had her doubts. Phoebe could've just been acting nice to get out of the conversation. She shook her head. No. Everything was fine. Everything was good. She released a heavy breath. She and Phoebe were good. She had to believe it. Bliss kicked that demon's ass into the sky; she had to believe it was for a purpose. Even though she wasn't sure what kind of purpose it was yet.
The shorter teenager finally left the classroom and didn't notice her blonde friend right away amongst the horde of students in the hall. Helga reached out her hand and lightly touched Phoebe's shoulder. "Hey."
The girl instinctively jolted away from the touch of her friend and looked at Helga wildly for a moment then sighed in relief. "Oh, Helga, it's just you." She fell into the blue eyed teenager and gave a tight embrace.
Helga paused at what just happened. She apprehensively hugged back and looked down. "I just wanted to see if you'd want to grab lunch together? I know we didn't plan it but...I thought I could make up for yesterday?" She gently brushed Phoebe's bangs back so she could notice the mixed feelings on her friends face. "Is everything okay?"
Phoebe released a relieved breath. "Everything is fine. And of course I want to grab lunch. But do you mind if we run an errand first?"
"Sure, what's up?"
"Do you know where the 'Recreational Room' is?" She had overheard students talk about such a place since school had started. It was apparently a place you went to when you needed things to get done. All the details were vague. Secretive. But she recognized the name her classmates used when whispering about who to meet.
"Yeah, it's like this little room of workout equipment to the side of the gym. Why do you need to go there?" She recollected for a second and her posture stiffened. "Is someone giving you shit? Is that why you freaked out? Who is it? Do I need to whip out these girls? Because I'll pummel some meatheads if I have to." She said, dropping her arms from Phoebe's shoulders and held up her fists. "Come on, Pheebs, tell me. They won't even know what hit em', and when their ass is on the ground, they'll be looking up at the barrel of Ole' Betsy."
"Helga." Phoebe interrupted and smiled. "Your protectiveness is very sweet." She said placing her hands upon Helga's fists to lower them. "But no, it's for someone else. I'm just… fairly jumpy today. Several events have happened and it's only noon." She said, pulling out a piece of paper from her pocket. "Do you think she'll accept this request?"
Helga took the letter and looked down at the notes written on it. She was taken-aback. No one she knew of had the balls to go after a well-known bully like this. Well, until now. He had a mighty high price on his head. However, she bit the inside of her mouth as her heart shivered for her friend and her cheeks flushed. What a courageous requisition. Such a noble effort. She pushed her poetic and silly notions aside for the moment as she cleared her throat. "Pheebs, this is great, but, you know he's an extra cost, right?"
"I am aware, but, it'll be worth it." They stared at each other and Helga was lost in her reveries again, staring into those sparkling hazel eyes. Phoebe came close and brought her hand up to adjust the blonde's crooked glasses on her nose and she grinned easily to reassure her friend. "Helga, I don't mind speculating you all day. But can you please guide me to where the 'Recreational Room' is?"
The taller girl blinked a few times out of her twirling thoughts and blushed. She nodded. "Come on." She grabbed her companion's hand and led Phoebe through the students. They reached the gym where a group of boys were practicing basketball and eventually turned to the 'Rec Room'.
The were two teenagers in the space amongst the heavy weights and punching bags. A rather large, stocky teenage boy and a muscular young woman that laid on a bench under a metal bar; thick disc weights hung on each side. She grunted as she pressed her arms against the bar from below and pushed the heavy load up and down in repetition.
The boy encouraged her on. "Just ten more reps and then we can take a break. Man, I'm getting all sweaty."
She groaned as she completed her repetitions and set the bar back on the rack. She responded in a huff. "You haven't even touched a five pound weight today. How are you sweaty?"
His stomach grumbled and he winced. "I had mexican for breakfast…"
They then both turned their attention to the duo that walked through the glass door and he puffed up his chest as he approached them. "She's busy right now."
Helga held up a hand. "Save your breath, pink boy. We're not here to talk to you. We can wait."
He snarled and grumbled under his breath. "Madam fortress mommy..."
The strong girl sat up on the bench and wiped her forehead with a nearby towel. "Well..." She eyed the two teenagers as she leaned her palm upon her thigh and tossed the towel over her firm shoulder. "Something you can't handle, Pataki?"
Helga stared at her long time friend sitting on the bench. The brown haired young woman must have gained twenty pounds of muscle and three inches of height since the ninth grade. Her short hair was pulled back by a bandana tied around her head and she wore a grey-blue undershirt with a loose pair of gym shorts. She was ripped from head to toe. It was no wonder everyone on the wrestling team called her She-Hulk. And to everyone else it was- "It's out of my hands, Trish."
Miss Heyerdahl asserted herself and spoke up. "We're here because of me. I wanted to see you."
The bulky girl took a sip of her water bottle and grinned eagerly. "Well, Phoebe Heyerdahl just came back into town and needs my assistance? I wonder who it could be. I'm excited."
Phoebe walked forward and calmly handed Trish the note.
She folded it open and glanced over the words and then the name. "Hmm...I hope you know he's triple my regular rate."
"I know."
Helga apprehensively looked to her companion. "Pheebs, are you sure about this? I swear, I can handle it. You just need to say the word. I've been wanting to mash that potato's face for quite some time."
Harold crossed his arms and belted out a single laugh. "Hah! You handle it?"
The crooked toothed boy may have gained some muscle and height as well since they were younger, but he also filled up on stupidity.
"Ah, shut it, BOOB!"
Phoebe smiled at her and placed a reassuring hand upon the blonde's shoulder. "Helga, no offense, but I think we may need professional help. I have a savings fund through the accident and my inheritance. And I believe I can speak with Patricia about some other sort of compensation as well."
"Sure. One time someone paid me their entire collection of BANG comics...That was a pretty sweet trade."
"Oh, and Wrestlemania's coming up! I'm sure Patty would like some tickets to that, huh?" Harold butted his two cents in. Helga was pretty sure he was still the only person that referred to her as Patty.
Trish simply rolled her eyes at him.
Phoebe continued to console her unsettled friend. "Do not fret, I'll figure it out."
Helga squeezed her fists and Trish spoke up. "Listen to the woman, Pataki. She'll get her moneys worth." She said as she folded the letter and bent forward to tuck it into her sock. "Just bring forth some sort of payment tomorrow, and he won't be an issue anymore." The bulky girl laid back down on the bench. "Harold, add another twenty. It'll be the one thing you lift today!"
The boy grumbled as he did what he was told and the two teenage girls walked out of the 'Rec Room'.
"I can't believe you did that." Helga said as she shook her head while they exited the gym and into the hall. "What am I saying? Of course I can believe that you did it." She grinned to herself. "I still think I could've handled it, but criminy, Trish is a beast. Even I've tasted those fists before. And I've never said this, but I am actually looking forward to school tomorrow. Asshole, won't know what hit him!"
Phoebe disclosed a modest smile as they made their way towards the cafeteria.
The blonde slowed her stride and her voice tendered. "You did a really good thing...you know, for Curly...for everyone really. Even though they may not all deserve it or know who their savior is." She ended distastefully.
Miss Heyerdahl stopped walking, and the two gazed at each other's optimistic features. "I did it for you too." She took a step forward gently grasped her friend's hands into her own. "I've been dwelling, a lot on what you confessed this morning."
Her vulnerability was out in the open again, and Helga's face became uncomfortable for the moment.
"As a...treasured friend, I don't want you to ever be afraid. Or that you have to fight and push back all the time, or...feel outcasted and alone." She released a heavy chuckle and attempted to hold back the overwhelming sentiments rushing to her eyes. "I can't fight worth a damn...I'm not physically adept for brawling. But I want you to feel safe. And I mean it, Helga. I would do whatever it took for you to feel that way."
The blonde's nervous disposition faded. Phoebe's declaration spoke volumes; they echoed into the infinite repository of her squishy brain, and rippled through the blood in her veins. All the serenades and prose she wanted to burst out with utter adoration, would have been too many words. "I hear you."
XOXOX
School had ended. And she wasn't really looking too forward to this next part. Damn, she really wished Phoebe had lied earlier. A chill evening with Pheebs watching a movie or goofing around would've been icing on the cake. Especially since her friend had solidified the reciprocation in wanting to still be friends and wholeheartedly accepted her for who she was. Which was an amazing feeling the blonde could get very used to. But no, she had to run an errand with football face for something that wasn't even her fault in the first place!
They had a pleasant lunch. The shorter girl had told her about some band she saw last night named 'The Ghost Brides' and how Gerald invited her. That could've been her instead of him but, Rhonda...She wouldn't have given up that crazy adventure for the world either. There would be more concerts. But there would probably only be one Miss Lloyd blowing up a sports car and confessing her undying love.
Yesterday seemed like forever ago. Her youth seemed like forever ago. Loving Arnold seemed like forever ago. Here she was in this new chapter in her life. Confiding her secretive actions to Phoebe was a big step, and she hoped it was a push in the right direction. She took Bliss' words seriously from her dream. She felt better. Nervous. But better.
She had also dabbled with thoughts of Rhonda and her having a normal friendship. Watching 'Heathers' for the forty-sixth time (apparently Rhonda was keeping count). Going out to eat without being high off their asses at two am in the morning and gobbling down three burritos each. Having the wealthy teen do her up in makeup and expensive dresses when they went to the theatre to see some shmancy show Curly invited them to. She might even be able to convince Rhonda to go with her to a baseball game at Quigley Stadium.
And then there was Phoebe. The beautiful soul that was Phoebe Heyerdahl. If she could write her another hundred letters she would, just babbling on about all the marvelous and magnanimous qualities she saw in her friend. Was she falling for Phoebe? That notion ran across her mind several times a day. She didn't think she could ever get over Rhonda. The girl that stole her chastity. She didn't think she would ever get over...Arnold. The boy that stole her heart. Now that was a rabbit hole she definitely didn't want to peek back down without Bliss there to pull her out.
Phoebe was everything she wanted to be. Rhonda was everything she wanted to look like. And yet, they both unconditionally cared about her. Her. Helga G Pataki.
She would have to acknowledge Olga's advice for once; to let time ride it's course, and accept Bliss' cryptic messages in her dream-state. And maybe so, the answers would come to her questions.
The blonde made her way over to the grass and squinted through the cracks in her glasses at the two students running around the football field. No. No way. It couldn't have been.
The duo came close as they nearly finished their lap, and one of the figures looked up from her feet. Sweat dripping down her face, the sauna jacket making funny noises as she ran; she noticed the love of her life standing there in the ground before her and Rhonda felt her knees wobble with weakness.
Helga watched as her dark haired friend tripped on the earth and tumbled forward, falling flat on her face.
Curly stopped his jog beside the wealthy girl as he quickly turned on his heel and rushed to his fallen companion. "Oh, honey! You totally ATE it!" He said concerned, but there was also humor in his tone.
The blonde dropped her notebook and ran over as well, taking Rhonda's other arm as Curly helped Miss Lloyd off the grass. "Rhon', are you okay?" She asked worriedly.
Miss Lloyd blushed hard, or was her face just red from the heat? She coughed out some dirt that had lodged itself between her perfect teeth. She had minor scratches and flecks of pebble on her cheeks. The teenage boy began to tentatively brush them away. "I meant to do that."
Helga exhaled a snort. "Now you sound like me."
"Are you alright, Buttercup? Your beautiful face isn't broken is it?"
Rhonda peered over at him and snarled faintly. "What do you think?"
He licked his thumb and rubbed the blades of grass away from her pink skin. "Good as new!"
The two released Rhonda as she adjusted herself back to a proper posture and Helga crossed her arms, shaking her head. "What're you two knuckleheads even doing? Looks like you're wearing trash bags with hoods."
The young man started to buoyantly jog in place. "Moving these money makers and sweating! Rhonda has spilled all the tea and confessed that she wants to completely stop being a raging alcoholic and a pot huffing deadbeat. So we're detoxifying!"
His exercise partner responded with a wild glare in his direction.
"Plus, after the whole car thing, her father kind of snatched away her entire college fund." His positive beat was flawless. "So we're atoning for these mistakes by sobering her up!"
Helga glanced over to Rhonda with remorse. Almost too speechless for words. "Is that true? I- I called him last night and told him it was my fault."
Miss Lloyd sighed; her face still flushed and damp. "Helga, that's...well that's actually incredibly sweet, but did you really think he'd fall for that? He knows me like the back of his thousand dollar wristwatch. And in a fit of anger, he did say those things. Whether he actually means it or not when I graduate...I'm not sure. I don't really want to push my luck that far."
"That's right, it's MY job to push her luck!" The dark haired boy exclaimed, panting through his words. "And she didn't even mention the best part! So, I get around a hundred dollars a week to stop by my grandma's place and check up on her and her two english bulldogs, Bruno and Bathilda. BUT- if Rhonda does it, she can get the money, and there, problem solved!
"Curly, can you-" Rhonda winced and feebly held up her hand. "Can you tone down the energy, please? I am already physically suffering."
"Oh, honey, It's only because I love you .YOU HEAR THAT WORLD?! I LOVE RHONDA WELLINGTON LLOYD!"
"The whole world already knows that."
"I'm just reminding them, dearest."
The blonde raised a brow and pursed her lips in confusion. "Wait a second, that sounds an awful lot like a JOB. Doth my ears deceive me? Is Rhonda Lloyd getting...a job?" She teased and a smile crept upon her mouth.
Rhonda rolled her eyes and shrugged bleakly. "He wants me to try it out for a couple days, and honestly, I don't have a fucking choice. My father is probably at some car dealership right now, making it rain all over some shiny new convertible, with MY trust fund!
"Don't worry, Grandma Lilly will adore you! Shes gonna' eat you up, my sweet. And that means less responsibility on me, wahoo!" Curly exclaimed and raised his fists into the air, his legs kicking up with glee.
The wealthy- hey, wait a sec. Why am I still calling her the 'wealthy teenager'? She's now p-po...puuhh...ahem, p-pooooor. Anyway, Rhonda responded with a chiding tone. "It doesn't mean less responsibility because if you join the football team, you'll have to stay after school for practice."
"Ohhhh, fooie! I didn't want that, I just wanted to do it to rub it into Wolfgang's face when I got accepted!" His optimistic demeanor saddened and she wasn't having any of it. Especially since she had to run around looking like a homeless person. All she needed now was a grocery cart full cans to complete the guise.
"Well, if I have to have tea and biscuits with Lillian Gammelthorpe on almost a daily basis, and walk two cross-eyed slobbering mutts, you'll have to finish out this season!" She pointed a stern finger at him.
He began to lightly whine through his huffs.
Helga was just bystanding, enjoying the hilarious argument, when a familiar footballhead walked over and joined them. "Hey, there you are." He said as he stopped by the blonde girl. "I also heard some shouting about Curly loving Rhonda?"
"No mystery there, Sherlock."
Arnold grinned as he interestedly watched Curly jog in place and Rhonda miserable in her sauna suit. "What are you guys doing? It looks like you're wearing garbage bags? Under the hot sun?"
"We're-!"
He was cut off by his irritated partner. "Curly!" She then glowered in response to Arnold's prying nature. "It's none of your business, Arnold. And, I think the main question should be-" She crossed her arms with a swishy sound in her suit. "Why are you here?" There weren't many reasons to not like Arnold. But obviously, Rhonda had found them all, and it always made Helga delighted.
The blonde girl chimed in. "Well, remember that one time when Arnold blinded me and I made him my personal slave? That's happening again."
The green eyed boy shook his head in annoyance. "I am helping Helga with a new pair of glasses, since yes, I did ACCIDENTALLY break her current ones. But there will be no slavery involved. I am voluntarily assisting you this time." He glanced down and checked the watch on his wrist. "And speaking of, we should head to the boutique soon before they close so we can pick you out a pair and get your prescription ordered."
Helga exhaled a breath and nodded rather gloomy. "Right, well..." She immediately gazed at Rhonda. Wanting to talk some more. Wanting to joke around with her good friend. Heck she'd even prefer running around this track with the two goofs if it meant she didn't have to go do adult stuff with you-know-who.
Miss Lloyd acknowledged the knowing look and interrupted. "Arnold, she'll be with you in a minute. Why don't you go wait by the bus stop?" She asked with an edge to her voice, but civil.
"But we-" He gestured to his watch again and Rhonda responded with a punishing stare. Her brown eyes chilling against her heated skin. The footballheaded teen gulped before retaliating. "Oh...kay...Please, don't be long." He gave a slight nod and began to stroll towards the nearby bus stop in front of the school.
Rhonda then called back to her shorter friend who was still jogging in place. "Curly, go run a lap."
"Yes, my love!" He said, beginning to trot around the track again and she pulled back the plastic hoodie, revealing her damp black hair as she took a few steps closer.
Helga gave an affectionate smirk; Rhonda may have been broke, but she was still terrifying as ever. "You look like you're shriveling in that heap. I almost feel sorry for you. Almost."
She raised a sweaty manicured brow. "Oh? But I still think I can pull off sexy in just about anything." She licked reddened lips and ran her fingers through her shimmering locks. "How are you..um…?" She spoke, her pupils getting lost, gazing through the broken glass and wandering around in the colors of Helga's blue irises.
"Doing? I'm good...I think." Her face softened and she rubbed the back of her neck anxiously. "I feel guilty, about your...dad situation."
Rhonda exhaled a gentle laugh. "So sympathetic." She snapped her fingers and pointed in Helga's direction. "That's your problem, Pataki. You feel too much. Softie." She lightly poked the blonde's collar.
"And she's back to giving me shit. You must really be fine." Helga shook her head and tried not to smile too much.
Miss Lloyd's hands fell onto her hips assuredly. "Well, to be honest I'm probably just delusional from the heat exhaustion and dehydration and can't really focus on my emotions right now."
The blonde's brows scrunched in faint worry. "Do I need to go get you a jug of water? Because I don't need you two dying on me."
"Your concern is lovely. But actually, while I trudge around under the grueling sun, all I imagine is being picked up and carried to a gold plated clawfoot tub. And the bathwater is a cool seventy degrees. I wouldn't mind a margarita as well. Wink. Wink. Nudge. Nudge." Her tone was playful.
"Or I could just dunk your head in the toilet of the girls bathroom. Old fashioned swirlie should do the trick."
"Why-" Rhonda squinted and lifted a finger to rest on her chin in thought. "Why does that thought turn me on?" She pointed to her friend accusingly. "Are you flirting with me?"
Helga chuckled and weakly pushed her. "Knock it off."
The brown eyed teen returned the laugh. "And I'm just shitting you. Curly and I nabbed the five gallon dispenser from the boy's locker room. It's by the bleachers. But I am sweating my guts out. Maybe literally. I dont know, there's alot going on under this suit." She lifted the bottom of the plastic jacket and her glossy torso was revealed.
Helga stared down at the defined abdominals that tensed under Rhonda's perspired skin. She swallowed as a subtle heat rose within her and her insides did a flip. But it also could've been the heat from outside, because criminy, it was hot!
"Want a hug?" Rhonda gazed at her and asked a little too innocently.
The blonde retaliated and shook off the desires bouncing around in her head. "Maybe when you don't reek of swamp ass." She exhaled despairingly. "But Rhon', I gotta' go. Otherwise Arnold's going to come back over, and no one wants that."
Curly heaved out several breaths as he finished his lap and met up with the girls again. "Another one, dearest?"
Rhonda bit her bottom lip and glanced back at the dark haired boy. "Just-...just a couple more seconds. Besides, even if you're making me do this, you do look so fucking cute jogging in your suit like that."
His face beamed like it was the best news he ever heard. "Thank you, my darling!"
Miss Lloyd faced Helga again and slowly nodded. "Jokes aside, I am fine. I have this 'noodle' to keep me focused." She jutted her thumb towards a bouncing Curly. "And the thing with my father...it's whatever. It is what it is...I don't regret anything I did."
"I'm glad you don't regret it." Helga responded earnestly. Her eyebrows became nervous and scrunched together. "By the way...I um...I told Pheebs. A- About you and I. I hope that's okay."
Rhonda hesitated before speaking. Her tone was surprisingly gracious. "I figured. She, uh...she wants to hang out sometime. I took her up on the offer. I don't know if she told you but, um...she was pretty amazing today. She's cool in my book."
A pink tint rose to Helga's face. "...She is amazing."
"Better than us 'jezebels'." She joked and then gestured towards the direction of the bus stop. "You better go join up with the boy wonder over there before he throws a football in the boutique."
Curly belted out a laugh through his breaths as he listened in. "Good one!"
The blonde nodded in agreement but paused for a second before taking a step forward and wrapped her arms around Rhonda's waist in a snug embrace.
The dark haired girl's eyes widened in awe, but she grinned affectionately and moved her taut biceps around Helga's shoulders, nuzzling her sweaty cheek against her friend's.
Helga hastily dropped her hands and pulled away at the discomfort, rubbing the moistness off her face. "Rhon'! Eww!"
"Now git'!" Rhonda yelled as she pointed to a waiting Arnold off in the distance, and Helga rolled her now annoyed blue eyes as she strolled away.
Miss Lloyd's heart swelled as she watched the back of Helga Pataki. Much like she had so many times before. Sweat continued to drip down her face, down her entire body. She was hot, tired, and crabby. But she had to admit, she was completely content in this moment. That is until she felt her ass get slapped.
Curly began to trot forward again. "If we are facing the right direction, all we have to do is keep on walking! Come on, champ!"
Her head fell back and she groaned, before moving her legs and joining him.
Freakin', 'noodle'!