A/N: Thank you for all the great reviews! Especially you, Ansa88 and imaninja41. This chappie is going to get pretty intense so you've been warned. ENJOY!
Disclaimer: I don't own X-Men Evolution or any song used in this story, so don't sue me!
() =Telepathic conversations
""=Speaking
''=Thoughts
The Memorial
I heavily groaned as I got out of bed. My clock was beeping irritatingly loudly, so I picked it up and threw it against the wall instead of shutting it off. This week was going to absolutely suck ass! Not only was it the weekend of the anniversary of Andre's death but I have to go back home and see that she-devil called my mom. The way we fight one of us is going to be dead by Sunday afternoon. And I wish I was joking when I say that.
At school during lunch
"Mina, you've hardly eaten your chicken Caesar salad," Scott observed.
"I'm not hungry," I said. The moment I said that everyone around the table dropped their forks and stared at me.
"You're not hungry?" Rogue asked.
"You're always hungry!" Kitty exclaimed.
"There's definitely something up with you," Jean said. "Do you wanna talk about it?"
"Not really," I sighed. "You guys can ask Kurt though. He already knows."
"How would Kurt know?" Evan asked.
"I tell Kurt almost everything," I replied. "Go ahead and tell them."
"Mina, LaToya and Anthony are so sad because Saturday is zhe anniversary of their brother's death," Kurt told them. "But zhat's not vhat's bugging you is it?"
"Nope, I deal with his death every time I see fire," I dismissed. "I just really don't want to see my egg and sperm donors."
"You mean your parents?" Scott clarified.
"Same difference," I said. "If it wasn't for Andre's memorial I wouldn't even be going home."
"Oh, come on," LaToya said rubbing my arm. "Mom and dad aren't so bad."
"To you guys," I said pointing at my brother and sister. "They hate me. Not that I care."
"I think you do care," Talisa said. "But don't worry, I'm coming with you to keep you grounded."
I looked at Anthony and asked "And mom and dad are okay with this?"
"They said they'll be thrilled to see her again," Anthony said.
"Do they know you guys are dating?" I asked. Their nervous whistles made me laugh and say "Good luck with that then."
"It's just nice having someone close to you help you through something like this," LaToya said as she wistfully looked at Kurt.
"That's absolutely true," I said as I cut my eyes toward Pietro.
"Pietro, I need a favor," I said to him as we cuddled on the couch at the Brotherhood house after school.
"Uh-oh. The last time you said that we ended up on a double date with Lance and Pryde," Pietro groaned. "What is it this time?"
"Will you come to Richmond with me?" I asked as I anxiously bit my lip. "For Andre's memorial? I don't think I can go through it without you there."
"Uh," was all Pietro could say as he stared at me with his mouth slightly open.
"What's the matter?" I asked. "Are you scared of meeting my parents or something? Because trust me they don't care who I date anymore."
"Well, it's just that this is a big thing you're asking from me," Pietro said.
"Oh, it's okay if you don't want to go," I lied through a plastic smile. "Forget that I ever asked."
"Are you okay?" Pietro asked. "With me not going with you, I mean."
"No, no. I'm fine," I said. I looked at the clock mounted on the wall and said "Oh, wow! Look at the time. I have be packed and ready to leave in an hour."
"You're leaving so soon? But it's only Thursday," Pietro said.
"I know but we plan to get there late tonight," I said. I pulled a slip of paper out of my jean pocket and said "Here. If you change your mind this is my address in Richmond. If not, I'll see you Sunday afternoon."
"You're gonna be gone the entire weekend?" Pietro exclaimed in shock.
"Yeah. I'll see you when I see you," I said giving him one last kiss before quickly leaving. I gave a small wave to Lance before getting in my car and driving away.
"Hey, why was Semina in such a hurry to leave?" Lance asked. "She looked a little upset too. Did you guys have another fight?"
"No, she asked me to go home to Richmond with her for her brother's memorial," Pietro said.
"And you're not going because...?" Lance asked.
"Because I've never actually met the parents of any girl I've dated," Pietro replied in a hushed tone.
"That is absolutely pathetic," Lance said.
"I don't see having dinner with Pryde's parents," Pietro retorted.
"That's because they hate me," Lance plainly said. "But Semina's parents don't know you so they can't hate you. I say just go and let things take it's course."
"But-" Pietro began.
"But nothing," Lance interrupted. "Look it's her brother's memorial. She needs you there with her for support."
Pietro thought this over and sighed "Well, I'll see you guys Sunday afternoon."
Anthony drove LaToya, Talisa, Sasha and I to the airport in his car. My car didn't have enough room to store our luggage or carry Anthony for that matter. When he gets in my car, it's like putting an elephant in a clown car. At the airport, we met up with Logan and Ororo who would be flying us home. We couldn't take the X-Jet from the institute because Talisa was human and I doubt she would understand the whole mutant school thing anyway.
"Ooh, a private jet," Talisa said in awe. "That institute you go too must really pull out all the stops. How do I get in?"
"Well there's a special test you have to pass," I said as my brother, sister and I held back a laugh. We boarded the plane and waited for the jet to take us back home.
A jet and a car ride later
As soon as we pulled up to our house and Anthony, LaToya and Talisa got out of the car, I let out a loud groan.
"I don't wanna see her," I huffed as I crossed my arms defiantly.
"Sprinkler, just stay calm like we taught you and you'll be fine," Logan reassured.
"But-" I protested before Ororo said "No buts. Semina whether or not you like your parents, you are here to honor your brother's memory. But just remember, your parents do love you and they always will."
'I just wish I could believe that,' I thought before I said "Thanks. I'm just gonna have to tough it out and focus on Andre."
"We'll see you on Sunday," Logan said.
'If my mom hasn't killed me by then,' I thought as I got out of the car and headed toward the house. By the time I got in, my parents were already smothering Anthony and LaToya with hugs. When they saw me, my mom just uttered a quick hello while my dad gave me a high five. They quickly turned their attention back to the golden children before addressing Talisa. So much for sharing the love.
"Oh, my," my mom said. "Look at how you've grown."
"Yup, it was like it was just yesterday since Semina and I were playing with Barbies and landing back handsprings at six years old," Talisa smiled.
"Ah, yes. And look at you now," my mom said. "Dating our son."
"I hope your keeping him in line," my dad said in his deep bellowing voice.
"She's trying, dad," Anthony said.
"And what about you, LaToya? Any boyfriends we should know about?" my mom asked.
"No, not really," LaToya blushed.
"It doesn't matter who she dates," my dad said wrapping his arm around her shoulders. "No boy will ever be good enough for my baby."
"Well, I'm pretty wiped out from that plane ride," I fake yawned. "I'm gonna head upstairs and unpack."
While my mom and dad took little notice to my words, Anthony, LaToya and Talisa all hugged me before saying good night. It was only when I started up the stairs that my mom said "Semina, honey. You'll be sleeping in LaToya's room with her. Talisa will be sleeping in your room because she's a guest."
"What happened to your weight room?" I scowled.
"I figured we wouldn't need it anymore, so I put the room back to the way it used to be," my mom replied. "Oh and remember, we're having a late dinner at 9:00 P.M."
"Okay, whatever," I said as I trudged up the stairs. "I'll see you guys at dinner then."
I walked down the upstairs hallway and before entering LaToya's room, I quickly peeked in my old room. The navy blue walls that were there the last time I visited were now a creamy shade of pale orange and there was a bed and everything. Beautiful curtains for the window, a new carpet, my parents even put in a couch!
'I never got a couch when I was here,' I bitterly thought before closing the door and proceeding to my sisters room.
I looked around her room to see nothing has changed. Bright and cheery yellow walls, posters of Wiz Khalifa and J. Cole, and fuzzy plush toys scattered on her bed. Her room was bigger than mine so she could fit a desk in for her laptop and printer and luckily there was still enough room for me to sleep...on the floor. I sighed and slowly wasted time unpacking my clothes and essentials. LaToya walked in and sighed when she saw the unwavering pout on my face.
"Come on, Mini Mi," LaToya urged. "Lighten up. Things could be worse."
"I'm sleeping on the floor of my sister's room while my own room is the second guest room," I said. "How could this be worse?"
"You could be sleeping in the garage," LaToya offered.
"Hey, hey! Don't let mom get anymore ideas in her heads," I chuckled. "Because she just might do that."
"She's our mom not a monster," LaToya said.
'Not in your eyes,' I thought.
"Now come on it's time for dinner," LaToya said. "Mom made roasted pork."
"If there's one thing mom can do right, it's cook," I said following my sister downstairs.
The smell of pork surrounded the air and with each step I took the hungrier I became. I didn't eat anything before I left the institute and could you imagine Logan in a flight attendants outfit handing out little baggies of peanuts? I took my usual place at the table at the corner next to Anthony and LaToya and looked at the food on the table. My mouth watered at the sight of the pile of succulent pork, mashed potatoes with gravy, corn bread, salad, a bowl of vegetables and a pitcher of homemade grapefruit juice. We all joined hands and said a prayer over the food before digging in. I made sure I steered clear of the vegetables though because there was cauliflower in it. I doubt my parents even bothered to remember I'm allergic to them.
"So, Anthony, how have sports been going?" my dad asked.
"Great, I made first string on the football team," Anthony said.
"Are you the quarterback?" my mom asked.
"Nope, this guy, Duncan Matthews, is," Anthony replied. "Man, can he throw a football. Semina knows him, too. He's dating Jean. You remember her, don't you mom?"
"Oh of course," my mom said. "The pretty girl with the red hair. How could I forget such a sweet girl?"
"How's basketball going, baby?" my dad asked LaToya.
"I'm the captain," LaToya beamed. "Not to brag or anything but I led the team to every victory last season."
"That's my girl," my dad said with pride. "That's the old Wilson blood coursing through your veins. We're a family of athletes."
"Speaking of athletics, are you still cheerleading, Talisa?" my mother asked. I got a little hopeful that she was talking to me but it left as quick as it came when she said 'Talisa'.
"Yes, mam," Talisa replied. "It isn't the same with Semina, though. It's a shame she quit the team."
"You quit the team?" my dad asked. "Why?"
"I had a problem with the captain," I replied. "It's no big deal."
"Not a big deal?" Talisa exclaimed. "The squad hasn't been the same since you quit! We've had to cut back on the tumbling and we haven't had a decent or catchy song to dance to."
"I bet Misty must be hating the fact that she needs me there," I smirked.
"Oh yeah," Talisa agreed.
"Are you happy about this?" my mom asked. "You're letting everyone down! But that is what your best at."
"Thanks mom," I sarcastically said. "You're encouragement and kind words are what keep me going."
Before she had a chance to retort, the doorbell rang.
"Semina, go answer the door," my mom commanded.
I just rolled my eyes as I got up and walked toward the door. Sasha who was lounging by the door immediately sat upright and began barking excitedly. When I opened the door, my eyes widened and I let out a squeal. Sasha who was just as excited as I was jumped straight into the arms of Pietro after I swept him into a hug.
"Ah! Pietro, you came!" I said as I squeezed him before giving him a kiss that meant 'I missed you so much.'
"Yeah, I figured you needed me and you would probably would've die if I wasn't here," Pietro arrogantly said.
"Oh you are so full of yourself," I chuckled. "Why did you get here so late? You have super speed. You could've beat me here."
"I got lost," Pietro sheepishly said. "Aren't you going to invite me in?"
"Of course," I said taking his duffel bag and closing the door behind him. "Are you hungry? You caught us in the middle of dinner."
"I did just run here all the way from Bayville," Pietro said. "I'm running on empty here."
"Then let's get you a plate then," I said linking our arms together and escorting him into the dining room.
Everyone looked up as I came back in and confusion didn't even begin to describe the look on my parents face.
"Semina? Who is he?" my dad asked.
"Mom, dad, this is Pietro Maximoff," I said. "He's my boyfriend."
"B-b-boyfriend?" my dad sputtered.
"You never told us you had a boyfriend," my mom said.
"That's because you never asked," I pointed out. "Pietro, these are my parents, Dwight and Estelle Wilson."
"Nice to meet you both," Pietro said firmly shaking my dads hand. Despite his cool and confident outside, Pietro was more than nervous on the inside.
"That's quite a handshake you got there," my dad admired. "Do you play any sports?"
"I used to play basketball before I came to live in Bayville,"Pietro replied.
"How are your grades in school?" my mom inquired.
"Straight A's on every report card, mam," Pietro said.
"Ooh, an athlete and a scholar," my dad remarked. "Impressive."
"Thank you, sir," Pietro said. "I try my best."
"You're parents must've raised you right," my mom said. Pietro tensed up for a quick second but returned to normal soon after. With his super speed nobody saw it but I've been with Pietro long enough to catch little movements like that.
"Hey, guys. Enough with the questions," I said trying to change the subject. "Pietro's traveled all the way from Bayville to get here. He is pretty hungry."
"Oh, my mistake," my mom said quickly fixing a plate for him. "You must be very tired, too. When you finish, you can stay in the guest room. It's upstairs in the last door on the right."
"Thank you for being so nice, Mrs. Wilson," Pietro said. "I hope I won't be a burden."
"No, no burden," my mom dismissed. "And call me Estelle."
"Hmm, Semina, you haven't touched your vegetables," my dad noticed.
"I'm allergic to cauliflower, remember?" I said.
"Why aren't you eating your vegetables, Pietro?" my mom asked. "Your not allergic to cauliflower too, are you?"
"No," Pietro said. "I'm, um, allergic to carrots."
The real reason Pietro didn't eat any of the vegetables was because he knew if he did, he wouldn't be able to kiss me. That and he hates carrots. I mean come on, who doesn't.
"Oh, my apologies," my mom said. "If I had known you were coming ahead of time, I would've prepared the meal accordingly."
"It's alright, Mrs. Wil- I mean, Estelle," Pietro said.
"I hate to be rude but why are you here?" my dad asked.
"I came to offer my condolences to your deceased son as well as comfort my girlfriend through this difficult time," Pietro said taking my hand in his and rubbing it with his thumb.
"Considerate of our family and our daughter's well being," my dad observed. "I'm starting to like you already."
(Wow, you've actually one them over), I telepathically said. (If I could kiss you right now I would.)
(Save that option for later), Pietro replied.
(How have you manged to get them to like you so quickly?) I asked.
(That's the Maximoff charm at work), he said.
(Oh, hush), I said.
I held in a smile and being so wrapped up in a telepathic conversation with Pietro, I failed to notice my mom's face take on a look of suspicion. Dinner soon ended and my mom said every else could go turn in for the night except me and my dad.
"Am I in trouble or something?" I asked.
"You're about to be," my mom hissed. "During dinner I noticed you said something to that boyfriend of yours."
"Okay," I said 'Is this conversation going anywhere anytime soon?' kind of tone.
"You said something telepathically," my mom said. "Did you lose your common sense at the Xavier Institute? You know damn well you're not supposed to reveal your powers to humans!"
"What I say to my boyfriend is my business and besides who said anything about Pietro being human?" I smugly asked.
"You mean he's a mutant too?" my dad asked.
"Yes he is," I said. "Problem? He knows I'm a mutant, he knows about Anthony, LaToya and the institute. He knows about almost everything."
"What's his power? Hypnotic charm?" my mom mocked.
"Ha ha. Funny," I dryly chuckled in reply. "No, super speed. How do you think he got here?"
"I don't know," my mom said. "Like a normal human."
"What's wrong with me dating a mutant?" I asked. "I thought you guys would be happy for me."
"Well a mutant dating another mutant isn't always a good thing," my mom said. "Vivian learned that the hard way."
"Wait what?" I asked. "I don't think I heard right. Did you just say Aunt Viv had a mutant boyfriend?"
"Yes, and he was just like yours," my mom reminisced. "Handsome, arrogant but quite the charmer. And come to think of it, she said he had white hair too. Oh, Vivian talked about him nonstop. Your Aunt fell in love with him but he broke her heart and she was never the same since."
"What was his name?" I inquired.
"Erik something," my mom replied. "It was so long ago, I don't even remember. She never let us meet him though."
"Mom, dad, I'm really tired so can I go to sleep now?" I asked as my heartbeat sped up at the horrifying thought in my head. "Don't you guys still have preparations for the memorial on Saturday?"
"We do," my dad said taking my moms hand before she could chew me out any further. "Come on, Estelle. Let's just leave the girl alone and get some rest."
"Okay, okay," my mom agreed before she disappeared into her bedroom downstairs. "I'll see you in the morning, Semina."
"Night," I choked out before racing upstairs. Instead of going into LaToya's room where I would be sleeping I crept into the guest room. Inside I found Pietro admiring himself in the mirror.
"Okay, we get it Pietro. You're a pretty boy," I said startling him. "There's something important I need to ask you."
"Y-yeah, sure," Pietro said.
"Is Magneto's real name Erik?" I asked.
"Hey, how did you know that?" Pietro asked.
"Oh my God," I mumbled as my skin paled.
"What's wrong?" Pietro asked. "It looks like you've seen a ghost."
"Oh no, it's nothing," I replied. "I'm fine. Good night, baby."
I gave him a kiss on the cheek and crept to LaToya's room where I quietly slipped on the floor and thought "My favorite Aunt used to date Magneto" before falling asleep.
The Next Morning
The smell of bacon woke me from my slumber and made me race downstairs after brushing my teeth, only to find that everyone was already downstairs.
"Good morning, sleepyhead," Pietro smirked.
"Mornin'," I said giving him a kiss before my dad loudly cleared his throat and Pietro and I both blushed like crazy. "Sorry dad. How'd you sleep, Pietro?"
"Fine," Pietro said before taking a bite of toast. "Best four hours of sleep ever."
"You only slept four hours?" my mom asked. "Was the bed too lumpy? Too many sheets? Not enough pillows?"
"No, the bed was fine, Estelle," Pietro replied.
"Pietro's an insomniac, mom," I said.
"Oh, now I understand why he was up so early," my mom said. "I found him downstairs looking through one of the family scrapbooks."
"Which one?" Anthony asked. "Because if it's the one with the picture of me when I was a baby naked and covered with powder, I may need to hurt someone."
"No, no. It was the one with the picture of Vivian helping Semina swim for the first time," my mom said. "Semina just loves the water."
"She sure does," Pietro agreed.
"So, Pietro when did you meet my daughter?" my dad pried.
"We met at Iron Back survival camp last year and I guess we just clicked," Pietro replied.
"It was a mutual attraction," I smiled. "There was just something about him that I liked."
"And she was a feisty one," Pietro said. "And stubborn."
"Shut up," I said. "I am not."
"Yes you are," Anthony, LaToya and Talisa said in unison.
"Y'all can shut up, too," I said.
"How long have you two been dating?" my mom asked.
"Since November," Pietro said.
"Has it really been that long?" I asked. "Seems like just yesterday that you took me to the carnival for our first date."
"Wait, you guys have been dating since the carnival and you never told me," Talisa said.
"It was on the DL for a while," I shrugged. "I wasn't sure how people would react if they found out we were dating. You should have seen people's faces when we walked down the hallway holding hands."
"I hope you're doing a better job with Pietro than you did with Darnell," my mom said. The moment she said that everyone at the table became silent. "Boys like those two are ones you can't let get away."
"I didn't let Darnell get away," I said through clenched teeth. "He cheated on me, so I dumped him. And speaking of Darnell, why did you tell him where I was living in Bayville?"
"You did what?" my dad boomed. Apparently, my mom never shared this piece of information with my dad and he hated Darnell more than I do. "You sent that boy to her and never told me?"
"He came to the house begging to know where you went so I told him," my mom replied. "He's such a sweet boy."
"Yeah, that sweet boy gave me bruises on my arms," I said. "That just screams kindness."
"When did this happen?" Anthony asked. "You know what, it doesn't matter. The next time I see that boy I'm gonna bruise him and see how he likes it."
"It's fine, Anthony," I waved off. "I had my strong, tough boyfriend to protect me."
"Yeah, I messed his nose up pretty bad," Pietro bragged.
"You broke it?" Anthony asked.
"Shattered it," I replied.
"Hmm, you aint so bad, Maximoff," Anthony said giving him a fist bump.
"I'm the best at what I do," Pietro said.
"Oh really?" Anthony inquired. "Then how about a little one on one outside?"
"Bring it on," Pietro said. "Semina, you might wanna get some tissues for your brother when we're done. Because when I win, I'm gonna make him cry like a baby."
"Big talk for a scrawny guy," Anthony smirked. "You better be able to back it up on the court and then we'll see who's crying once this is over."
"This is gonna get good," Talisa smiled.
"Let's go watch," I said as we followed after them.
Anthony and Pietro took to the court and we watched as they began their intense game of basketball. Anthony checked the bounce of the ball before passing it to Pietro and starting the game. Pietro dribbled the ball as he headed toward the hoop. He tried for a layup only to be blocked by my brother. Anthony got the ball and shot it in the hoop earning both two points and the first basket of the game.
"Lucky shot. I think it's time to for me to show you how it's done," Pietro said before he removed his shirt revealing a well toned set of six pack abs.
My face flushed with heat before I whistled a cat call at him. "You got this, Pietro!"
'What a show off,' Anthony thought.
Anthony dribbled the ball a few times before charging to ward the basket for a jump shot. Pietro jumped up and blocked it with a swat of his hand. As the ball fell to the ground both Anthony and Pietro scrambled for it. Pietro managed to recover it and shot a three pointer that went int the basket with a 'swoosh'.
"Oh, it's on now," Anthony said taking his shirt off as well.
"Now those are abs!" Talisa called out.
I pointed my finger at my open mouth in a way to say I was going to vomit before Talisa giggled and pushed my hand down. The game went on for almost twenty minutes before a victor was finally named. Despite Pietro's speedy moves, it was my brother who won by making it to thirty first. Anthony has never lost a game of one on one and today's game was no exception.
"Not so bad, Maximoff," Anthony panted.
"Ditto," Pietro said as he wiped sweat from his brow. "You got lucky but wait until the rematch."
"I'll remember that," Anthony said as they shook hands.
I couldn't help but smile at the sight of my brother and my boyfriend getting along. Hopefully they'll keep this up once we get back to Bayville.
"Good job out there," I said to Pietro.
"Yeah but I didn't win," Pietro huffed.
"No, but you looked sexy while you were playing," I smirked.
"As always," Pietro said.
"I would kiss you as a consolation prize but you're sweaty," I cringed. "Not that I mind the glisten off those abs but sweat isn't a turn on for me."
"Then how about I go shower and you can give me my prize," Pietro seductively whispered in my ear.
"I'll be waiting," I whispered back.
Pietro retreated into the house and I sat on the porch swing with LaToya who had been playing with Sasha.
"Did you watch the game?" I asked.
"Yup, who knew Pietro had such nice abs," LaToya chuckled. "I wonder if Kurt has abs."
"He does," I said. "They're blue and furry. It's amazing how he doesn't get fat even after eating so many Gut Bombs."
"How do you know he has abs?" LaToya asked.
"When we went to the beach, he was wearing an unbuttoned shirt," I said. "And I've seen him in his swim trunks in the pool."
"Did you take a picture?" my sister eagerly asked.
"No!" I exclaimed. "Why would I need one? It's not I knew you were going to ask for it sometime in the future. I'm a mind reader not a future see-er."
"I'll just have to find a way to see them when we get home," LaToya said. "By the way, I forgot to ask what you're wearing to the memorial tomorrow."
"Damn it!" I yelled. "I completely forgot to pack an outfit for it! I was so preoccupied with seeing mom that it must've slipped my mind."
"That means we have to go shopping," LaToya grinned. "I'll get my car ready. Go change out of you're pajamas and meet me here in ten."
"I thought your car was out of gas," I said.
"Dda filled it up after we left," LaToya said. "Now go get ready."
"Okay, okay," I said. "Come on, Sasha!"
Sasha obediently barked and followed me inside the house and up the stairs. The same time I reached the hallway, Pietro stepped out of the bathroom fresh, clean and wearing nothing but a towel. The sight of him was basically making me drool. His wet hair drooping toward the back of his head with his bangs covering his eyes, the rippling muscles of his chest and arms and the look of his abs were almost too much to bear.
"Enjoying the view?" Pietro smirked.
"I sure am," I said. "I could stare at you all day but I'm going shopping. Wanna go with me?"
"Sure, nothing better to do here," Pietro shrugged. "Give me a sec." Pietro disappeared into the guest room and less than a second he came out fully clothed and ready to go. "Done!"
"Good, now you can keep Sasha company as I change," I said. Sasha scampered toward Pietro and affectionately nuzzled his leg with her head. "Play nice, you two."
I slipped off my pajamas and pulled on a cute short skirt, yellow V-neck t-shirt and a pair of matching yellow sandals. I tied my hair in a ponytail, grabbed my purse and stepped out the door where I found Pietro rubbing Sasha's belly.
"Aww, how cute is that," I cooed. "Let's get going. I need to be home in time to swim in the pool before dinner. Maybe you can help me pick out a new swimsuit while we're at the mall."
That lit a fire under Pietro's ass and he said "Then-what's-the-hold-up? Let's-go!"
At the mall
We walked into the Richmond Mega Mall and old memories swirled through my head.
"Ah, it's good to be back in my old home," I joked. "I basically lived at the mall back in the day."
"Then you know where the good stores are," Pietro said. "Like the swimsuit shop."
"Later," I said. "I came to get a dress for the memorial tomorrow. Please tell me you brought a suit."
"He he. Funny story," Pietro nervously said.
"I don't have enough money to buy you a suit," I sighed.
"But I do," LaToya grinned as she held up a gold credit card. "Dad let me borrow his credit card."
"Lemme guess, you asked for it while he was watching the game?" I asked.
"Works every time," LaToya said as she twirled the card in her hand.
"Let's get the suit first," Pietro suggested. "Because it takes Mina months to decide on an outfit let alone try a bunch on."
"Shut up," I said as I nudged him in the arm. We walked around the mall until my expert mall navigation skills brought us to a Men's Wearhouse. LaToya and I waited in the chairs in front of Pietro who was being measured for a suit behind a set of curtains. LaToya and I idly talked until Pietro walked out fully dressed in a black suit.
"Ooh, someone looks suave," I said.
Pietro struck a pose and I giggled. "You've gotten even more handsome if that was possible."
"Go on," Pietro urged. "Tell me more about how much you adore me."
"She could stand here all day and do that," LaToya chuckled.
"She probably could," Pietro said before he kissed me.
We stood there kissing until LaToya loudly cleared her throat and said "Don't you have a dress to buy?"
"Right," I agreed. "Let's get the suit that my baby looks so dashing in so we can find a dress-"
"And a swimsuit," Pietro piped in.
"-for me," I finished.
LaToya used our dad's credit card and charged Pietro's suit to it. We left the store and strolled around the mall until we found a dress shop named "Lily's" which happened to be next to "Victoria's Secret" where I was going to buy a swimsuit. After pulling black dress after black dress off of the rack and scurried to the fitting rooms where I would try them on. With each dress came a different dislike: too short, too baggy, too open, not open enough, too whoreish, too long and worst of all too unflattering. After dress failure after another I finally found the best dress for the occasion.
"I think I found the right dress," I called out I as admired myself in the mirror.
"Took ya long enough," Pietro called back. "You've been in there for years!"
"Don't mind Pietro! He's just being impatient as usual!" LaToya yelled. "Come show us the dress."
Bot Pietro and LaToya looked confused when I walked out fully clothed holding the dress I was going to buy in my hand.
"Why aren't you wearing the dress?" LaToya asked.
"It's a dress for a memorial," I said. "It's not a prom dress or a wedding dress. I'm not gonna make you sit out here and tell me how nice I look in it or not. I'm just gonna buy it and you'll see it tomorrow at the memorial."
"Okay, whatever gets us outta here so I can watch you try on swimsuits," Pietro shrugged.
I paid for the dress and we proceeded to "Victoria's Secret". I don't know whether or not it was a good idea to let Pietro pick my swimsuit but I'll have to wait and see what he chose for me is too, for lack of a better word, unsuited to my taste. Pietro handed me his selections and I took them into the dressing room.
I tried on the first one which was a sexy pink two piece with silver stars. It was pretty but it could barely cover my breasts or my butt. The second one was a blue two piece with drawstrings at the sides of the bottom half. I loved the color but it's way too easy to undo one of these strings. The third was a green monokini that had rips up the sides. I loved the design but this shade of green reminded me of the Mystery Meat at school. The fourth was a black monokini that wrapped around my neck and had gold skulls plastered on it. I absolutely loved this one but I still had one left to try on. The last was a pink, purple and black cheetah print monkini that had a low dip in the front and was completely open in the back. This was so just as nice as the black one which left me in a dilemma. I liked both of them so much I didn't know which one to buy, so I did the easy thing: I bought them both.
"Which one did you get?" Pietro eagerly asked as I stepped out of the dressing room. "The pink one?"
"No, I got the black one and the cheetah one," I replied. "I assume by your disappointment that you wanted me to get the pink one."
"What can I say?" Pietro shrugged. "With a body like that I'd show it off every chance I get."
"I'm sure you would," I snickered.
After purchasing the swimsuits, we walked out of the store and were just about to head home when my sister got hungry.
"I'm going to the food court," LaToya declared.
"But I want to go swimming," I whined.
"Then you can walk home," LaToya said. " 'Cause I'm not leaving until I get some food."
I huffed and reluctantly followed my sister into the food court with Pietro closely following behind. I figured since we we here might as well get a corn dog with chili cheese fries and a jumbo slushie. While Pietro and I shared the fries and slushie, I kept the corn dog for myself. LaToya devoured her plate of grande nachos and three slices of pepperoni pizza before we even finished! Satisfied with her meal she finally decided we could leave. As we proceeded toward the exit, a group of boys came up to us. I immediately my bags dropped to the ground and gave one of the boys a hug.
"Kevin!" I exclaimed.
"Semina," Kevin replied as he hugged back. "Damn girl, I aint see you in a minute."
"I'm living in New York now," I said.
"I heard. Was Richmond getting too boring for you?" Kevin teased.
"Of course not," I said. "I got accepted into a prestigious institute."
"Oh yeah, I forgot you were smart," Kevin said.
"What? No hug for me?" Shawn asked. "You know you're wrong for that."
"Shut up," I said as I gave him a hug as well.
Kevin and Shawn were two of my childhood friends that I always used to hang out with. They were my two favorite guy friends and Kevin was Andre's best friend whereas Shawn was Anthony's best friend. LaToya used to have a crush on Shawn which I can still see slightly lingering because when he hugged her, she blushed.
Pietro loudly cleared his throat and asked "Aren't you going to introduce me?"
"Right. Kevin, Shawn, this is my boyfriend, Pietro," I said.
"Boyfriend?" Kevin questioned.
"I was wondering who the white boy was," Shawn said. "This is who you're dating now?"
"Yes it is," I defensively replied. "He's sure as hell a step up from Darnell."
"What homeboy did to you was so wrong," Kevin said. "I saw him the other day with a cast on his nose. He said he broke it while he visited you."
"Oh, he didn't break it, I broke it," Pietro said. "He just couldn't keep his hands to himself."
"Respect," Kevin said as he gave Pietro a fist bump. "I would've done the same thing."
"Hmm, and all this time I thought he was soft," Shawn chuckled. "Never thought the white boy had it in him."
"Hey, enough with the race crap. I'm black and he's white, so what?" I groaned. "At least I'm dating someone. I don't see any girlfriend hanging from your arms."
"As a matter of fact, I have a girlfriend," Shawn reassured.
"Where is she? 'Cause I don't see her," I said.
"She's right here," a voice I recognized all too well said as she stepped out from behind the crowd of boys.
I looked at the girl in disgust and viciously said "Oh, Janay. I almost didn't recognize you fully clothed and not under Darnell."
"Well, I'm with Shawn now," Janay said. "But as far as I see it, you should be thanking me."
"For what?" I snapped.
"For saving you from an extremely tiny penis," Janay laughed.
As much as I wanted to laugh, I held my stern facial expression and said "Maybe I should be thanking you. If I were still with Darnell, I wouldn't have met Pietro."
I gave Pietro a kiss on the cheek and felt his pride from being bragged about.
"So are you two coming to Andre's memorial?" LaToya spoke up.
"We wouldn't miss it for anything," Kevin said. "Saturday at noon, right?"
"Right," I confirmed. "My mom's having a get together at our house later. Come through, okay. I'm sure Anthony hasn't seen in you in months."
"We'll be there," Shawn said.
LaToya and I hugged them goodbye before finally driving home.
"Ah," I sighed as I felt the cool water of the pool surround my body. I let my body float on the surface of the pool before diving underneath the water with a swimming cap to keep my hair dry of course. I appeared from under the pool and swam to the edge where I rested my arms and lazily kicked my feet. "This is so peaceful."
"Cannonball!" I heard my brother yell.
I snapped my eyes open and before I could yell "No, Anthony! Don't!" he had already splashed into the pool creating a huge wave of water that crashed over me and sent me under water.
"Anthony!" I yelled as I resurfaced. "My hair better not be wet because of you!"
"Oh, relax, short stuff," my brother dismissed. "You love the water!"
"Not in my hair I don't," I retorted.
Talisa and my sister came out with pool chairs and towels. My sister was in a white two piece that showed off her curves and Talisa was in a lime green one piece that showed off her fit, cheerleader physique.
"Damn, look at you," Anthony said. "You look good int that swimsuit."
"I know," Talisa smiled.
"Come here so I can appreciate it from up close," Anthony said.
Talisa splashed into the pool and swam over to my brother where she gave him a passionate kiss on the lips.
'Wow, they're almost as bad as me and Pietro,' I thought. 'And speaking of Pietro where is he?'
Just then, Pietro came outside wearing a pair of white swim trunks with blue lightning blots on them. The word 'amazingly hot' couldn't even begin to describe how he looked.
"Semina, you're staring," LaToya called out.
"I know," I called back. "How could I not? What are you waiting for, Pietro? Come in the pool with me! I know you want to."
"Just a sec," Pietro said as he walked back into the house. He ran toward the pool, minus the super speed and jumped into the pool.
"Ugh!" I groaned as I fixed my swimming cap again. "You're just as bad as my brother."
"Yeah, well I bet my splash was bigger," Pietro said.
"Is everything a challenge to you?" Anthony asked.
"What can I say? I love to win," Pietro shrugged.
"How about we play a game of chicken then?" Talisa suggested. "Me and Anthony versus you and Semina."
"You're on," Pietro agreed. "Me and Mina are gonna win this, right Mina?"
"I'll play," I said. "But if my hair gets wet one of you is gonna have to buy me a perm."
"Up ya go," Pietro said as he went underwater to let me climb on his shoulders.
"Get ready to lose," Talisa said as she climbed on my brothers shoulders and the game got underway.
Five games of chicken later
"Ha!" I said triumphantly as I high-fived Pietro.
"I told you we were gonna win," Pietro gloated before pulling me into a kiss. "Great job out there, babe."
"You too," I said. "It's takes a strong boy to lift me on their shoulders that long."
"Well, I do work out," Pietro said before flexing and striking poses.
I giggled and kissed him on the cheek for being so, well, Pietro.
"Okay! We get it. You guys are dating," LaToya shouted. "Just stop with the excessive PDA."
"Damn, what's your problem?" I asked.
"Someone's a little sour because Kurt's not here," Anthony teased in a sing song tone.
"Shut up! I am not!" LaToya cried out before defiantly crossing her arms and pouting,.
Pietro sputtered before releasing deep, resonating laughter. "You like blue boy?"
LaToya blushed before saying "Yeah, so what?"
Pietro started to answer but fell back into laughter. LaToya rolled her eyes while she irritatedly stormed away.
"What's wrong with Kurt?" I asked.
"He's just so innocent and virtuous," Pietro chuckled. "He doesn't seem like her type. They would be an odd couple."
"LaToya loves funny guys," I shrugged as I swam to the edge of the pool and pulled myself out. "It's always been that way. Now come on, it's dinner time. I can already smell the beef."
Pietro came out of the pool and stood before me dripping in pool water. I couldn't help but to ogle how perfect he looked.
"Y-you might want to change first," I said. "I don't think I could focus on eating with a body as perfect as yours sitting next to me."
"Fine, I'll go change but." Pietro began before pressing his body against mine and whispering "You know you want me to stay like this."
I shivered as he ran his hand down my back and even as he ascended the stairs I still felt goosebumps on my skin.
After dinner
I lay on the hard floor of LaToya's room tossing and turning from the terrible nightmare I was having.
Pitch black darkness with a creepy silence that hung thick in the air surrounded me. There wasn't a sliver of illumination anywhere in sight. A sudden burst of hot flames lit the darkness to the point where the light was overwhelmingly bright enough to blind me. Then screaming, so much screaming. Screams underlined with pain, terror and fear. I dropped to my knees, squeezed my eyes shut and clamped my hands over my ears as if to block out the scene playing around me. Suddenly a mirror appeared in front of me and as I stared into it I saw nothing. No, wait. Not nothing. A skeleton appeared as my reflection. A skeleton with the head of my dead brother, Andre.
My eyes snapped open as I quickly sat up from the floor covered in sweat with tears spilling from my eyes. I hadn't realized I was screaming until Pietro and Anthony barged in. LaToya was already by my side calming me down.
"Semina, are you okay?" Pietro asked with a look of concern on his face.
"Another nightmare?" LaToya asked already knowing the answer.
I gave a small nod as I pulled my legs up to my chest.
"Do you want me to stay with you?" Anthony offered.
"N-no," I choked out. "I-I'm fine. I'm sorry for waking you up."
"It's okay, really," Pietro said as he sat next to me and smoothed my messy hair.
"You guys can go back to bed," I urged. "The memorial's in the morning remember? You need to sleep."
"Okay," Anthony agreed finally caving in. He kissed my forehead and said "I'm in the other room if you need me."
I nodded before he retreated from the room. "You guys too," I said referring to my sister and boyfriend. "I'm fine now. Nothing to worry about."
They both opened their mouths to retort but I gave them a pleading look that stopped them. Pietro gave me a kiss on the cheek before saying "It's going to be okay. These nightmares won't last forever."
"I hope not," I mumbled.
"Anything you wanna talk about?" LaToya asked after Pietro returned to the guest room.
I began to say something before I decided against it and said "No. It was just a nightmare as usual. Nothing that needs to be discussed."
"Well, okay," LaToya unsurely replied.
As LaToya quickly fell back into a deep slumber, I lay back and stared up at the ceiling. There was no way I was going to be able to sleep soundly tonight. After debating with myself whether this was a good idea or not, I grabbed my blanket and pillow and slowly crept out of the room. I gave a soft knock onto Pietro's door and happily sighed when he answered.
"C-can I come in?" I shyly asked.
Pietro nodded and said "Of course, it's your house."
"I'm not going to be able to sleep, so is it okay if I lay with you?" I asked. "With your insomnia and all I figured we could talk for a while."
"I'd like that," Pietro smiled as we climbed into the bed. He wrapped his arms around my waist and I snuggled closer to him. "So what do you want to talk about?"
"I don't know," I shrugged until a question came to mind. "How'd you first find out you were a mutant?"
"It's a long story," Pietro said.
"I've got all night," I smiled. "I'm all ears."
Several hours later
"And then I found out that my skirt was tucked into my underwear during the entire routine," I laughed. "It was the most embarrassing cheerleading competition ever!"
"I bet the judges thought it was hilarious," Pietro chuckled.
"Hilarious? It was so funny they gave us first place out of pity," I snickered.
A ray of sunshine hit us from the cracks between the blinds as I pulled Pietro closer to me. "I'm impressed. We've been in one spot all night and you haven't been jittery at all."
"Why would I move from being in bed with my girlfriend? Especially while she's wearing that," Pietro said referring to my pink and blue polka dotted shorts and pink tank top.
"We haven't done anything," I said.
"Maybe I should change that," Pietro suggested before capturing my lips in a kiss.
An approaching mind made me pull back from Pietro and hop out of the bed. I made a beeline for the closet and hid inside of it the very moment my mom walked in.
"Good morning, Pietro," she greeted. "Breakfast will be ready in a little bit. I made my famous cinnamon raisin french toast so hurry and get downstairs before it's all gone."
"Er, uh. T-thank you, Estelle," Pietro stuttered. "I-i'll be ready soon."
I waited for my mom to get back downstairs before emerging from the closet and saying "That was close. If my mom would've caught me in here, she would have killed me."
"Your brother would've done worse to me," Pietro shuddered.
"Let's go get ready for breakfast," I said as I peeked out of the door. There was no one in the hallway so I quietly proceeded toward the bathroom. (The coast is clear, Pietro.)
After I got into the bathroom, Pietro crept in after me. I picked up my brush and pumped toothpaste on it before handing it to Pietro who followed suit. As we finished brushing our teeth, I sighed and said "Fresh breath at last."
"The better to kiss you with," Pietro said before kissing me. I tasted nothing but peppermint on his tongue and I was loving it. I leaned on the sink counter for balance but we both stopped when we heard a knock on the door. I quickly told Pietro to turn on the shower just in case.
"Who is it?" I breathlessly asked.
"It's me," Talsisa called out. "Let me in. I have to pee."
"Just a sec," I said. I pointed toward the shower and Pietro got in and closed the curtain. I unlocked the door and quickly climbed in after him.
"Thank you," Talisa huffed. "I was getting ready to wet myself."
"TMI," I sighed.
"Sorry," Talisa chuckled. "So where's Pietro? His room door was open and he wasn't in there."
"He, uh, went out for a run," I told her. "My baby has to keep in shape."
"Oh, no wonder he looks so good," Talisa said as she flushed the toilet.
"Hey! That's my boyfriend you're talking about," I snapped. "Only I can call say how good he looks."
"Calm down," Talisa said turning the sink on to wash her hands. "I'm just stating the obvious."
"Well, I'll do that. Thank you very much," I said as I saw Pietro's smile.
"Whatever." Talisa quickly brushed her teeth before saying "I'll meet you downstairs" before she exited the bathroom.
As she closed the door, Pietro and I struggled to hold back laughter. I shut off the still running shower and Pietro and I got out of it.
"We're never going to get to have some time alone are we?" Pietro asked as he wrapped his arms around my waist.
"I doubt it," I heavily sighed as I wrapped my arms around his neck. I gave him a peck on the lips and said "I think I'll go save us some French Toast."
Following breakfast, the day turned from a somewhat cheery morning to a grim noon. I had my arm latched in Pietro's as we walked into the church. Delicate white roses were placed around it along with people I recognized from Andre's funeral. Everyone was dressed in black and wore the same grief stricken and tearful faces as six years ago. A portrait of Andre was set up the front and it was one of my favorite pictures of him. His hazel eyes sparkled and his smile gleamed as he wore an expression that any twelve year old would have; both happy and carefree. I felt Pietro tense up and I looked in his direction to see Darnell walking toward us. Sporting a nose cast, might I add.
"Hello, Semina," Darnell greeted. "I came to offer my condolences."
"Thank you," I softly said. He looked like he wanted to say something else but decided against it and awkwardly walked away.
People who said similar things to state their sympathy also approached me as well as my family. After they all found seats in the pews, Pietro squeezed my hand and asked "Are you okay?"
"I'm fine," I replied in monotone. "I've dealt with it all before."
Pietro eyed her suspiciously because he noticed something everyone else also seemed to see: Semina wasn't crying. Not a single tear was being expelled from her eyes unlike the rest of her family and the memorial goers. Her face was stern but sad, like she was trying to keep everything bottled in. 'What is going on with her?' Pietro thought.
The loud church bells clanged together signaling the memorial was about to begin. Pietro and I hurried to our seats in the front of the church with family and close friends.
Pastor Thomas solemnly walked to the podium and said "We are here to honor the memory of Andre Marquis Wilson who died six years ago on this day. Join hands and we shall pray that his soul is resting peacefully."
After a quick prayer, he continued "Andre's brother and sisters will now say a few words on his behalf."
Anthony was the first to speak. "Andre wasn't only my twin but her was basically the best friend I ever had. Whenever I had a problem, he was there to help me out. Whether it was as small as deciding between video games or as big as teaching me to be more confident."
Tears slid down my brothers cheeks as his voice began to tremble when he said "He's not really gone though. Not entirely anyway. Everyday I look in the mirror, I see Andre. No matter what I do or where I go, I see him in. I loved my brother like no other and I pray that he's in a better place right now. I just wish I could see him one more time to tell him how much he meant to me."
Anthony stepped down and LaToya stepped up. She was already crying but she managed to get her words out clearly. "Andre was one of my biggest bullies as a child. But he was also my biggest rock. No matter how may times he made fun of my hair or pushed me in the mud, I know he would always be there for me at the end of the day with a towel, a cookie and kind words. My biggest regret is that I never got the chance to say goodbye to him before he died but I couldn't have known that that day my brother was going to be gone forever. But Andre's memory lives on in us everyday and I'm more thank grateful for that."
I stepped up to the podium as soon as LaToya returned to her seat in the pews. "There are no words to describe the love I feel for Andre. There were times that I took him for granted but after he was gone I realized how much I needed him. He was strong enough for both me and him when times were hard and looking back, it helped me a lot. But everyday, the thought I wasn't strong enough to save him before he died haunts me. The day he died, I was the only one with him. I saw him die right in front of my eyes and I was powerless to stop it. And I hate myself for that. I know-"
My voice caught in my throat as I tried to will out my next words but I couldn't bring myself to say them. I wanted to say that everyone would be better off if I had died in that fire instead of him. My mother would've certainly wanted it that way. However I said "I know that Andre doesn't want me to think that it's my fault but I can't help but blame myself. If I could go back six years, I would do anything and give up everything to bring him back. But for now, I want everyone to honor him and never forget the things he's done."
Even after all the emotion I poured into that speech, I still felt no tears in my eyes. I felt grief and remorse but I couldn't bring myself to cry. I sat back down next to Pietro and he wrapped a supportive arm around me and I was glad for it.
The house was still and quiet. My parents left to visit a few grieving neighbors while my brother, sister and Talisa cleaned up downstairs with Pietro. I plopped down on Pietro's bed in fatigue. Staying up all night talking left me in desperate need of some sleep. I slipped under the comforter and basked in Pietro's lingering scent. Within moments I was asleep; but not pleasantly I may add. Once again I was trapped in another nightmare.
Extreme heat engulfed my body as I lay on the wet, soft grass. I struggled to open my eyes but when I did I instantly regretted it. Standing before was a person set ablaze writhing in pain. I cautiously approached them and gasped. Standing in the fire was not Andre but myself. Skin melting away, flesh being burned and bones charring from the intense flames.
"This is how it should have happened and you know it," a voice from above said. That voice was my own mother's. "I wanted Andre alive, not you."
I looked deep into my own eyes and staring at myself was me in Andre's body watching what my mother thinks should've happened.
"AHH!" I shrieked as I snapped awake.
"Semina, it's alright," Pietro said as he cradled me in his arms.
"W-when did you get here?" I asked.
"A few minutes ago," Pietro replied. "I was coming up for my four hours of sleep when I found you in my bed."
"Sorry," I apologized. "I can leave if you want."
"No, no stay, "Pietro urged. "I don't mind."
Pietro slipped under the comforter and pulled me close to him.
"Thank you," I smiled.
"For what?" he questioned.
"Just for being here," I answered. "It means a lot to me."
"Anytime," Pietro said. "I'll always be here if you need me."
Pietro weakly smirked as he realized I wasn't listening because I had dozed off.
A few hours later
My eyes slowly fluttered open and I smiled as I looked straight into the eyes of my boyfriend.
"Were you watching me sleep?" I asked.
"You looked so peaceful and beautiful that I didn't want to wake you," Pietro sheepishly replied.
"I didn't think I'd sleep that soundly with the nightmares I usually get," I said.
"It's because of me," Pietro arrogantly boasted. "It's impossible to have a nightmare with me sleeping next to you."
"Y-you're right," I agreed. "All cockiness aside, having you next to me puts me at ease for some reason. You're my security blanket. I think you make me happy even in my sleep."
"Well, I'm here for you," he said lacing his fingers into mine.
"Promise me that you always will be," I whispered as a single tear slid down my cheek. "D-don't leave me."
Pietro brushed the tear away and whispered "I promise," before leaning into my lips for a, dare I say it, loving kiss.
Downstairs
Mr. and Mrs. Wilson entered through the front door and Mrs. Wilson sighed heavily at the sight of her son playing video games again.
"Really, Anthony?" she questioned. "This is how you're choosing to spend the day? What am I going to do with you? Where's your sister? And Talisa and Pietro for that matter. "
"LaToya's on the phone with Kitty," Anthony answered. "And Semina's upstairs sleeping. Talisa's e-mailing her parents and Pietro's in the guest room doing whatever he does."
"I'll go check to see if either of them are hungry," Mrs. Wilson said ascending the stairs and heading toward the guest room. She knocked lightly before entering. "Pietro, honey, are you-?" She stopped in mid-sentence because what she saw surprised her. "WHAT IS GOING ON?"
On the bed was Semina and Pietro intertwined with each other kissing passionately.
"Mom!" I exclaimed as I broke apart from Pietro.
"So this is what you do when your parents aren't around?" my mom asked. My mom's loud voice had manged to make everyone else in the house gather around the doorway.
"Semina, what are you doing in bed with that boy?" my dad questioned.
"We were just kissing," I explained. "As you can see I'm fully clothed and so is Pietro. We didn't do anything! "
"Not yet," my mom hissed. "I knew it was a mistake letting you stay here, Pietro because I knew this would happen."
"Why can't you believe me when I say nothing happened," I huffed. "You believe me, right daddy?"
"Finding my fifteen year old daughter making out with some boy?" my dad said as he shook his head. "I'm not sure what to believe."
"Seventeen," I said through clenched teeth.
"What?" my mom asked in confusion.
"I'm seventeen years old," I repeated. "One year away from being an adult. Not that either of you would know. Neither of you give a damn about me."
"Now you know that's not true," my dad reassured.
"Sure it's not," I sarcastically snapped. "When was the last time you called to check on me in Bayville or even tell me you love me for that matter?"
"It goes without needing to be said," my dad said.
"You're really unbelievable, Semina," my mom wryly chuckled. "It's the anniversary of brother's death and instead of grieving you're acting like a little whore!"
"I AM NOT A WHORE!" I yelled. "So don't you dare call me that!"
"Sure you are," she continued. "It's the only explanation for your behavior. It's probably the reason why you lost your last boyfriend. He saw how willing you were to sleep with him and labeled you a no good, dirty ho."
By now, I had lost all attempts at being civil about this matter and released my anger. I was seeing red and Pietro restrained me as I lunged for my mother in pure hatred. "Let me go! LET ME GO!"
"Oh and see that you can't control your temper either," my mom added. "Always ready to fly off the handle at the drop of a dime. You're just an angry slut who has no business having such a nice family and life."
"I HATE YOU!" I screamed. "I hate you so much, you evil bitch! I hope you burn in hell for being so wicked!"
"You should have been the one burning!" my mother yelled finally breaking her somewhat calm demeanor. "Six years ago, you should have died, not Andre."
"How can you wish that about your own daughter?" I cried out in anger. "What have I ever done to you to make you hate me this much? Why don't you love me?"
"Because I blame you for his death!" my mom bellowed. "I regret everyday that you survived and he didn't! If any one should be hating someone, it should be me. You are the most evil child that I wish I never gave birth to. Everyone would have been better off with you dead because you're absolutely worthless!"
"I always knew you felt that way," I seethed as angry tears slipped from my eyes. "Hearing you say it just gives me just cause why I'm sorry you are the way you are. So you know what? Fuck you. I don't give a damn about what happens to you anymore because as a mother you're dead to me."
I struggled out of Pietro's grasp and roughly shoved past my mother, went downstairs and disappeared out of the door.
"You are one messed up, lady," Pietro said staring my mother down in malice. "Semina has every right in the world to hate you."
He followed after me while my mom screamed "I don't care is she hates me or not! I don't love that demon child!"
"MOM, THAT'S ENOUGH!" Anthony angrily screamed. "I am so tired of you treating Semina this way. She isn't the reason Andre's dead so so stop acting like it's her fault!"
"It is her fault!" my mother screamed back. "If she wasn't so weak and useless, your brother would still be alive."
"MOM, SHUT THE HELL UP!" LatToya yelled. "You know damn well that she couldn't have done anything to save him!"
"LaToya, calm down," my dad said.
"Why didn't you tell Semina to calm down? Huh?" LaToya asked. "You guys are never there for her when she needs help or comfort. We're more of her parents than you two are!"
"You know what? We are sick and tired of you always picking a fight with her," my brother said to my mom. "And we are sick and tired of you acting like you're the victim. You're a grown ass woman who's picking on a seventeen year old girl and making her feel guilty about something she couldn't have prevented!"
"I'm not surprised if Semina never comes back because I would've done the same thing," LaToya said. "And that's run away from you and all your bullshit."
"And we really do feel bad that you're this way," Anthony said. "You need some kind of mental help because there is seriously something wrong with you."
Anthony, LaToya and Talisa left the room while my mom sighed and said "Those two don't know what they're talking about, right Dwight?"
She reached out to touch him but he pulled away and said "You've gone too far this time, Estelle. I agree with them completely. You need to stop blaming her because we all know it's not her fault."
My dad left the room leaving my mom standing there looking confused but not the least bit guilty.
Pietro wandered around the unfamiliar city feeling hopeless and sad. He was looking for Semina because after the fight she had with her mother she just disappeared.
'I never knew Semina's life was that hard,' he thought. 'All this time I though she was overreacting about her mom being evil. Now I see why she hates her and refuses to talk about her. She almost puts Magneto to shame for being worst parent of the decade.'
Night had already fallen so it was getting harder for Pietro to search for Mina.
'Okay, where would I go if I just had a fight with my mom about my dead brother?' Pietro silently mused.
His eyes widened and he used his super speed to run over to where he thought she'd be. Pietro, being very observant of his surroundings, noticed that on their way back from the memorial they passed a cemetery. After running around for a while he finally found it. Pietro carefully tiptoed around the grave plots in search of Semina. He released a scared breath he didn't know he was holding once her found Semina on her knees kneeling in front of a tombstone. As he approached her, he heard her quietly talking. Some parts he heard clearly but others were in a hushed whisper.
"I'm so sorry, Andre," I said as I stared at the tombstone. "I didn't mean to let you die. Maybe I should have died instead of you. That's what mom thinks anyway. I had another fight with her just now. She always screams mean things at me. What she says is true though. I'm just a useless weakling who should be in your place right now. I know that's how everyone wants it to be. People would be happier that way. Nobody cares about me. Except Tony and Toya. They always care. Oh and my boyfriend Pietro. He's a pretty great guy. It's a shame you'll never meet him. I can just picture you giving him a once over and being an overprotective big brother like how I always dreamed you'd be."
My vice dropped to a low whisper as I said "We've been dating for a while and I think I'm finally ready to tell him the truth about everything. Aunt Viv, Sierra and how deep my care for him goes. Pietro is the one and I need him to know that. I think I'll tell him when we get back to Bayville tomorrow. Or maybe I shouldn't. I'll probably scare him off that way. It may be too soon to tell him. But I think I'll know when the times right, Andre. I'm sure of it. I hope your in a good place, big brother. I love you so much and I miss you even more."
I kissed my fingers and placed them on the cold tombstone. I suddenly felt a hand on my shoulder and looked up to see Pietro with glossy eyes as if he was about to cry.
"Semina," Pietro said.
Even though he barely said anything the look in his eyes said everything. I nestled myself into his arms and finally released the tears and emotions I've been so desperately trying to bottle up all weekend.
A/N: Oh, wow. This actually made me tear up a little bit. It's too bad that Pietro didn't hear the last part of what Semina said. But don't worry folks. Those three little words will show up soon enough. So how'd you like this chappie? Hit the little review button and tell me! In the next chapter, we change the sad tone to a more lustful one *wink* Read the next chapter for all the steamy details!