Okay…this was about 55 pages and I still had a few scenes to go…so I split it into two parts for your viewing pleasure :P In about a week I'll submit the second part, but I have a BIG week coming up with so many uni assignments :( one I have to do all by myself because my partner dropped out of uni and left me with all the work- still have to hand it in the same date with the same contents just like everyone else! And a ten week journal, AND a 10 minute debate, AND a 2,000 word research project, all due in 1-2 weeks!

Someone do me a favour and shoot me.

Anyway, this chapter was always going to be massive :P I'm sorry this first part is a little boring (well…in my standards) but it's building up to the first part of the big climax- right after the talent show. And it was so big with 30,000 words+ I had to split it, which lowers the effect in my opinion but still makes it easier to take :)

I was however very sad that Wally's confrontation got cut out, I mean I know it's dissatisfying to see our Wally so down and defeated but it is coming up! I PROMISE!

****And…I will give a warning. From here on, in the next few chapters, There will be Dread and there will be Jayden- meaning there will be blood, and instruments that result in blood, and violence- both physical, verbal (heavy swearing) and sexual (rape). I can't write smut, but I won't be doing the characters any justice if I don't…describe their evilness well I guess. Aaannnd there will be death. If people request it I will put a warning beforehand, but if it doesn't bother people it's just a friendly warning that bad things will happen…after all this is M…it's not all smiles in the M rated section :) ****

1000GreenSun: Keehee! :#) Thank you! I love your enthusiasm, makes me smile like a goofy idiot and makes my family ask what the hell I'm smiling about XD I'm thrilled you like my characters! I hope you like the update :)

Laurie43: Aw :D YAY! I love hearing I make people smile, really warms me makes me feel all tingly inside ;P I hope you enjoy the update my lovely! x

comicfan209: hehe :) I'm sorry I didn't get to fit the confrontation in! I was disappointed, but its in the next one I promise! Enjoy the update for now!

simi838: Soundwave WAS amazing, and I recently saw Escape the Fate at NSW uni :D they're my favourite band so of course I was hysterical! I managed to get to the front row and I touched Craig's hand! AHHHHHHH! *hysterical moment* :) anyway back to the story, I hope you like the update! :P

Hey Jessi: Wow impressive! 8D Naw your love of my characters is so touching! Really touches my heart (((: Thank you so much! I really hope you like the update :P

Kuchiki-san urahara: Aw good :) Good Speechless is good! Thanks for your opinions, mucho appreciato! :P Hope you like the update x

A New Side Of Awesome: Aw thank you! :D I hope you like the update just as much! Enjoy! (:

tmcala: Naw thank you (: I hope you like the update, much more coming up soon!

Apples Go Boom: Aw yay! :D Naw thank you so much! I love my Dodgem too, and don't worry he'll show his kickass side ;P Hope you enjoy the chapter, a lot more drama coming up! xx

numbuh310alltheway: Aw thank you! :D I'm thrilled to hear someone loves the classics as much as I do! And I do spoil Bandit, he gets all my Disney ;) Enjoy!

Wallabee sat up in bed, leaning against the headboard with his emerald green eyes rolling around slowly within their sockets- taking in every detail of the room he was in. His childhood bedroom…so many memories that existed within these walls…being in this room alone could take him back to when he was only a kid, only a teenager… back when he used to sneak out at nights, sneak Abby back in, hide alcohol under his bed and teach Joey the basic moves of self defence for bullies at school… so many countless moments that were within the confinements of these walls. It was amazing, when he thought of it…just like his mother's story about her past, how it had all come together with so many memories that still stuck with her all these years, despite being decades old. It was the same with his memories… all moments in life that formed who he was, just like the moments that had formed his room… It wouldn't be his room without the memories, just like it wouldn't be his life without the past behind it.

He groaned, sinking back down into the pillows and closing his eyes. He was getting a headache just thinking about it. He knew what he had to do…hearing about what happened didn't make any difference. Sure, it had numbed the sharp pain of immediately anger and betrayal, but it still existed within him- just bubbling and turning until he was ready to release it to the right person- and Dingo was right in his sights.

He winced as he thought back to when he'd first found out about Dingo…the bastard had contacted him in the first place! He was taken aback at how cold his brother had been towards him, just finding out about what he was doing and where he was staying seemed regular routine to him, and he seethed as he realised probably the only reason Dingo kept in contact with him was because he'd found something within his own interests…his own girlfriend. Probably screwing her just so he could get his own twisted revenge.

And Abby. Wally growled to himself. She'd gone along with it. And she was supposed to be his friend. She alone went behind his back to fuck his own brother. He couldn't put it any more simply than that. No matter the excuse, that's what she did. There couldn't possibly be a logical excuse in that.

He squeezed his eyes closed ones again as images filled his head, and a heavy sense of betrayal seemed to weight him down. He couldn't get over it, not right away at least. Sure, he had Kuki…but Abby was still his friend, and now he just couldn't see her that way. Three years…down the drain. Three years, and all he could see her now was on her back, all over Dingo like some rash…

He shuddered, grimacing as he threw off his blankets and shuffling down the hall to the bathroom, still with that disgusted look on his face.

He needed a shower.

Patton laced up his sneakers as he gazed at the fresh sunrise on the horizon, hinting at a fresh weekend and a brand new day. He rose from his position, stretching and placing his earphones in his ears, ready for his morning run. He'd been tense and frustrated for the last few days, and a run in the morning light seemed to be the only thing he could think of to calm him down. He thoughtfully looked over his shoulder at his friend's bedroom door, and a wicked smirk crossed his face as he made his way over, throwing the door open and jumping on his bed.

"Owwww…." He heard Hoagie groan. "What the…" His head emerged from the jungle of blankets as he turned to glare at Patton, who happily grinned back. A pillow flew at his face and he ducked, still poking at the figure. "Go away!"

"Awww come on Hoags!" Patton snickered, shaking the sleeping figure. "Come for a run! You need to get out!"

Hoagie furiously tried beating him off, but his reflexes were less than perfect having just woken up, so he grumbled a defeated reply and threw off the covers, growling at Patton as he sat on his bed, grinning in triumph.

"You won't regret it, Hoags." Patton smirked. "It'll get rid of your frustration, and all the fitness hotties are out at this time of the morning you know…"

Hoagie snarled venomously as he kicked his sneakers out from underneath his bed, tugging them on grumpily as he issued his friend with a glare.

"I'm not interested in the fitness hotties Pat." He mumbled darkly. "I'm interested in getting you off my back. The quicker we do this the quicker I can get back to sleep-"

"Yeah, yeah." Patton gave his friend a knowing look as he watched him throw on a shirt. "Whatever. I can tell you're jumping at the chance to get buffed up. Who's the girl that you wanna impress? Do I know her? She bangin'?"

Hoagie gave him another furious glare as he stomped past, an annoyed expression still evident on his face. Images of Abby formed in his mind, and he immediately tried to push them aside.

Am I that transparent? He couldn't help but ask himself. He felt Patton slam a hnd to his back, and he turned to see that smug grin of his over his shoulder.

"C'mon Dude…" Patton smirked. "You can tell me."

"I could…" Hoagie put delicately, rolling his eyes carefully. But before Patton knew what was happening Hoagie had bolted for the door, throwing it open and taking off down the hall.

"But you'll have to keep up with me first!" He could her Hoagie down the hall. Patton blinked with shock, bewildered, before a sly grin crept up his face, and he rushed out to follow him.

"YOU'RE ON!"

Rachel's golden blonde hair flew behind her as she hurried down the hallway, fumbling with her keys as she shoved them quickly into her door, closing it behind her as she scrambled in, still with her phone pressed against her ear.

"Ugh…" She whined again, talking over the chattering girl on the other line. "Teresa, how can a talent show be this disorganized? This is insane. I'm not even studying event management- this isn't even my deal, I can't-" She stopped, holding open the fridge door as she listened to the student on the other line. "Well…." She bit her lip. "If it gets me extra credit I guess I can help out a little...when is it again?" It was at this unfortunate moment that she went to take a sip of juice out of a carton in the refrigerator, and upon hearing Teresa's response she choked on the acidic, fruity taste and spat out half of it on the counter, her hazel eyes widening in shock.

"TONIGHT?" She squeaked into the phone, wiping at the juice that dripped off her chin. "How can it be tonight? There's hardly been any publicity for it- just posters and announcements- nothing on the college radio or-" She pinched the bridge of her nose, sighing. "And how long have you been planning this?"

She threw her hands up in the air and shook her head, completely giving up as she listened to the juvenile, worried whimpers on the other side. Sometimes, she felt she was the only leader among a group of children.

"Fine, fine." She grumbled into the phone. "Gimmie an hour and I'll be there to get everything sorted, okay?" Without waiting for a response she snapped the phone closed, gave a quick growl and stomped off towards her roommate's room, anxious to gather as many teammates as possible in this battle. She quickly starting typing a new message as she walked, sending Nigel an SOS. Unfortunately, the blonde had yet to master the sacred art of texting and walking, and she ran smack bang into a body that suddenly stepped out in front of her from the bathroom. Her body, despite being fit and athletic, was no match for the sturdy muscle of who she had just collided with, and she fell towards the floor, feeling as though she had run into a brick wall.

"I'm sorry!" Dodge squeaked, grabbing the blonde by the arms to stop her from falling. Sometimes he forgot how broad his shoulders were. Rachel blinked in alarm at the obstruction in front of her- half naked, wet from the shower, her best friend's boyfriend- gazing at her with worried icy blue eyes. She stiffened, her own eyes widening at the close proximity of his toned and tanned chest. All she could do was blink at it, dumbfounded, as Dodge still kept her from falling, a confused and concerned expression on his face. "You okay?" He asked her.

"Why…yes…" Rachel burbled, shaking herself from the spell as she stepped back, Dodge letting go easily as she swayed slightly on the spot, gaining back the feeling of gravity. "Don't…" She shook her head again, walking off still in a daze from the collision. "Don't do that…"

"Sorry…" Dodge mumbled sheepishly, biting down on his pouting bottom lip. He felt awkward enough staying at Fanny's place, but she had insisted that he got to know her life a bit more. He obliged, any excuse to wake up to her, but he still felt a little uneasy with her friends. They were from different worlds, different lifestyles…and he was never good at making friends. He followed the blonde into the small kitchen; Rachel smirking as she quickly grabbed a notepad and paper, tapping the pages with her blue ballpoint as she mulled around some ideas in her head.

"Do you need any help?" Dodge asked hopefully, fidgeting awkwardly as he leaned against the small counter. Rachel grinned, turning to give him a kind look over her shoulder.

"I need a whole army." She smirked. "Can I count on you?"

Dodge returned the grin, raising his hand in a mock salute. "Yeah…sure."

Rachel gave him a grateful grin, but her sharp hazel eyes suddenly stilled, her eyebrows contracting as her glare narrowed in on his hand, which was still raised. Dodge froze, stiffening automatically as he realised what she was looking at.

"And what…" She gasped eagerly, leaping forward with a knowing smirk. "Is that?'

"Nothing!" Dodge mumbled, but sadly it came out as a nervous squeak. He hid his wrist behind his back, but Rachel was already giving him a calculating grin, nibbling at her bottom lip as she held back an excited squeak.

"Omigawd!" She gaped, her eyes wide. Dodge stepped back awkwardly, his own eyes wide. It was as though it was an engagement ring. She stared at him, her lips agape. "I can't believe you got that! Is that real? Does she-"

"She doesn't know yet!" Dodge grumbled, his hand covering it. "I keep it covered, I don't want her to find out- I don't want to scare her-"

"You won't!" Rachel smirked, still touched for her friend. "It's sweet, it is! You should tell her-"

He shook his head, cheeks darkening as he looked away. He really was afraid, although he hated to admit it. He was starting to regret getting the stupid tattoo in the first place, Dingo and Abby had no problems with each other, but rarely Dodge got a relationship he loved, and it was the very first time he ever felt this way about a girl and it was going so well…he knew he could screw it up…he always did. He just didn't want this to end, and he had a feeling it would be too much for his Cherry to handle.

"I don't want to ruin what we got…" He muttered, his eyes wide. 'I just wanna remember her, you know? I won't ever forget her, she's everything to me and I just want to show her how special she is to me…" He sighed, glancing at the inscription of ink on his wrist. It was simple and scrawled right across his wrist- black, curvy signature of 'Cherry' followed by two bright red cherries connected with a stem. He liked it- he sketched it himself and it reminded him of his girl- the nickname he gave her- showing the special bond that he only shared with her. "I wanna be romantic about it, just so she knows it's just how much I care about her…sh-she doesn't have to get one for me, or anything, I just want the timing to be right…"

"Naw…" Rachel cooed, grinning at the shy look on the usually tough, fierce guy's face. "That's so cute!"

The two suddenly jumped in alarm as they heard the bedroom door close behind them and Fanny stood in the hallway, freshly dressed and gazing at both of them with a sly smirk. Dodge froze, recognizing the look she was giving him- her deep dark eyes eyeing him knowingly. She'd heard every word.

"And…" She smirked. "The timing is perfect to me."

Abby sat at her old desk, her eyes glazing over the collage of photos that littered her walls. Memories flashed by her at alarming speed- all framed perfectly and outlined with stickers and mementos. Countless movie tickets, souvenirs, wrist bands… all brought together with smiling faces and red eyes from the flashes of the camera. She could recognise every face… Posing with Nigel at graduation, kissing Wally at prom, hugging Rachel at a pep rally, her arm around Kuki at the beach, Hoagie, Fanny and her linking arms on their first day at college, a family photo with Cree while the two gripped each other tightly..

She sighed, lowering her gaze to the manila folder in front of her. She gingerly took out her latest ultrasound, delicately pushing a pin into the top of the photo and pushing it into one of the empty spaces of her wall. Sighing, she examined this new piece of her life- on show for all to see. It was different, it would take some getting used to…but it made her smile, just like all the other pictured memories.

She propped her chin up onto her palm as she took it in… her other hand on her swollen stomach. She was growing quite big- her stomach stuck out just as much as her breasts did, and everyone noticed and stared at the campus. There wasn't much she could do to hide it and honestly she didn't want to, she didn't want the baby inside her to be judged on her apparent mistake.

"No!"

Abby jumped as she heard a low growl, almost like a moan, and she looked over in alarm only to hold back a loud scoff, her hand covering her mouth. Dingo was still fast asleep spread across the mattress like the bed hog he was, his black hair covering his eyes but his lips agape, his face twitching and snarling as he jerked in his sleep.

"Give it back…" he snarled in his sleep, his hand contracting into a fist as he clawed at his pillow. "I swear I'll pummel you…gimmie…the…I'll hurt…cut you good-"

Abby dissolved into silent giggles as she gazed at the man she had fallen in love with, as crazy as it seemed. He was kicking and growling in his sleep, making threats to the air as he tossed and turned. She couldn't imagine what he was dreaming about, but she couldn't imagine it was anything good. She listened in, nibbling on her bottom lip to stop the burst of laughter. Dingo clenched at her blankets, frowning as he cuddled them tighter.

"No…." He mumbled, suddenly sounding upset. It sounded like a whimper. "Don't hurt him…"

Abby's eyes widened, her face suddenly troubled.

"Not RIP!" He whined. "Not Rip! Noooo!" He thrashed about wildly as Abby broke, not able to hold in the laughter anymore as she realised what her boyfriend was dreaming about. "I'm TELLING!" He added, growling into the pillow. unable to take it anymore Abby approached the bed, grabbing at his closed fist and with the other hand cupping his face, still with a large grin on her face.

"Dingo!" She laughed, smirking to herself. "Dingo, wake up!"

Dingo gave a final growl before his lids flickered, opening hesitantly in the bright room. His emerald eyes glowed brilliantly in the mornings, charged and refreshed. Abby's kind smile hung above him, and he returned it, dazed. His eyes travelled to where she held his raised fist, and he frowned, taken aback.

"You were having a nightmare." She told him gently, but still with that joking smirk clear on her face. Her fingers travelled upwards to his hair, running a few fingers through it and tickling his scalp. "You okay?"

"Fine…" Dingo snarled, his cheeks suddenly darkening as he dropped his hand, sitting up sheepishly. He knew he talked in his sleep, and he cringed at the memories he had of this embarrassing habit. His friends loved to stay up at sleepovers just so they could watch him, especially when they were older as it was apparently more funny when drunk, and even his own father would video him as blackmail. It was humiliating and Dingo hated it, it always came out when he was emotional and had nobody to hold in sleep. He cast Abby a suspicious look, and she only smiled sweetly back, her brown eyes twinkling lightheartedly. He folded his arms, pouting as he glared at her. "What did I say?" he mumbled grumpily.

Abby's smile widened, patting his leg as she rose from the bed. "Nothing too embarrassing."

"Good." Dingo snarled, but in one quick movement he'd pounced over to drag her back down to the bed, guiding her into his arms for a tight hug. As he couldn't constrict her stomach, his arms bounded her chest, and Abby gagged for air as she wrestled with his anaconda-like grip.

"Dingo…" She growled to him, but couldn't resist a sly smirk all the same. "I have to get ready-"

"It's only eight-thirty…" Dingo pouted, kissing the outer shell of her ear. Abby shivered, the sensation rippling through her skin teasingly. "We can stay in bed all day…"

"I wish…" Abby sighed, and reality suddenly hit her like a fast-moving freight train. She pushed against Dingo's loving hold, her face slackening as she processed the task ahead. "I…I have to tell Wally today. About the baby, about us…" She broke off, hating the mere thought of it- having to say it was ten times as worse, and the guilt seemed to creep back to her. Her hands lowered to her almost six month old stomach, cupping the swollen belly for comfort, assurance she was doing the right thing. Dingo's hands followed hers, his fingers entwining with hers as he kissed her shoulder, tilting his head so he could face her from behind.

"You're doing the right thing, baby." He assured her softly, and he held her closer as he saw tears ripple in those chocolate coloured eyes. "It's for the best."

"I know…" Abby mumbled shakily, heaving a sigh as if to calm herself. "But…It's still hard…" She bit her lip, turning to face him. "And…I think it's best if I go alone, you know? Us together might be too much, like rubbing it in…and I don't want any more fights."

Dingo seemed to pout, quickly morphing his expression into one of understanding. But he wasn't quick enough, and Abby narrowed her eyes at the disappointment.

"Your baby doesn't like it." She pressed, frowning. Dingo just smirked back proudly.

"Which one?" He asked, diving in for another line of kisses to her neck. Abby couldn't hold in her sheepish smirk, but shook him off and morphed into seriousness again.

"I like that, though…" Dingo grinned at her, his fingers tickling her body. "My baby…as in mine. As in, the property of Dingo Beatles, as in-"

"Don't get carried away." Abby lectured him, scoffing. But Dingo was hardly with her.

"As in my girlfriend, and my kid, and my baby, as both these babies are mine. Only mine to hug and kiss, and be with. My babies who I can finally do couple-y things with. Mine. Belonging to me-"

"Ok, you've pressed the point." Abby talked over him, her eyebrows raising. "You've asserted your male dominance and I am now the sole property of you, I am yours." Her eyes flashed teasingly, and she gave him a smug smirk. "Now can you let me get dressed?"

Dingo pulled her back, still grinning. "Wait, not yet…Say that again."

Abby frowned. "What?"

"The part about…you…" He gave her a smug smirk. "Being…somebody's?"

"Ugh!" She scoffed, throwing him off as she started for a shower. She couldn't help but return the smirk as she turned around to face him, where he was propped up on the bed looking so proud of himself. "You get dressed too!" She smirked, her tongue between her teeth as she gave him a cheeky, satisfied smile. "You need to go home and see if Rip's okay, as you sounded so distraught before." She gave him a concerned look over her shoulder before turning around, giggling to herself as she closed the door to the bathroom.

3…2…1

On cue, she could hear Dingo through the door.

"AWWWW!" He groaned loudly, burying his face in the pillow behind him, his face burning with embarrassment.

"What do you mean, the speakers are faulty?" Rachel demanded, her eyes as wide as saucers. She groaned, shaking her head and sighing in defeat. "Okay, okay. I don't care- just get them fixed!"

She shooed away a member of the AV club before turning back to her friends behind her, a snarl in place. Dodge bit his lip nervously, but Fanny just gave her friend a sly smile.

"Having fun?"

"I'm just grateful I'm getting extra credit for this…" Rachel snarled, returning back to her clipboard. "Otherwise I swear I would be outta here so fast…"

As the blonde carried off rambling intelligible threats into her clipboard Fanny gave Dodge a reassuring smile, squeezing his hand.

"See?" She muttered silently. "She's not so scary…"

"Kinda like Dingo…" Dodge scoffed, matching her whisper. "Bark's worse than their bite."

"Uh…you don't wanna make her bite, though." Fanny smirked, winking.

"Yeah…same with D." Dodge smirked back.

"…Then who would have been head of the high school spirit team, huh?" Rachel shook her head as she finished her empty threats, her eyes gazing back to the notes on her chipboard. "Anyway…" Her hazel eyes gazed at the couple over the top of her board thoughtfully. She tapped her pen against the wood, nibbling her bottom lip. "Guess you guys can start by helping set up the decorations- extra chairs, signs, banners, all that stuff that…well, you know-"

"…Doesn't require skills?" Fanny smirked. Rachel gave her a playful slap on the arm, rolling her eyes.

"Just get to work, slaves."

There was a crash behind her as an amplifier fell to the ground, harsh feedback ringing in everybody's ears. Rachel grew stormy, launching into 'leader' mode as she stomped over, looking murderous.

"Go get 'em tiger!" Fanny grinned, her fist pumping into the air in a salute.

"I guess she's already got them under control…" A strong British accent sounded behind them and Fanny turned, flashing a sly grin at Nigel, who had just entered behind them.

"Oh yeah…" Fanny nodded, the three of them watching the show as Rachel lectured all of them in how to handle the equipment. "No wonder they wanted her for the job, nobody can boss people around like Rach."

"Don't I know it." Nigel scoffed.

"Well…except maybe you." Fanny laughed, nudging him. Nigel playfully nudged back, the two friends chuckling at each other as Dodge stood off to the side, feeling awkward. Fanny noticed and gave him a sly grin, grabbing his arm and pulling him closer. "Don't think you can escape from this hard labour." She flashed Nigel a sheepish smirk. "Nigel you remember Dodge, right?"

"Faintly." The Brit mumbled, but gave him a friendly smile regardless. Dodge returned it, shuffling his sneakers as he gripped his girl's hand.

"Enough chit chat!" Fanny grinned, clapping both boys on the back and leading them over to the side table, where boxes of props were set up to be prepped. "Now let's get down to some hard labour!" She threw a nervous look over her shoulder. "Before Rach sends us to janitorial duty-"

"I heard that!" Rachel shouted over the hall. The trio buried their heads in the boxes, trying to muffle their laughter.

Hoagie and Patton screeched to a halt outside the college café, huffing and puffing trying to catch their breath. Leaning against one of the pillars of the building, Hoagie still managed to give his friend an icy cold glare through his sweaty chestnut bangs. Patton still managed to give him a smirk, clutching a stitch in his ribs.

"I…hate…you…" Hoagie managed to gasp.

"No…you don't…" Patton muttered between pants. "You…love me."

Hoagie could only muster a furious glare and a feeble kick in his friend's direction as they caught their breath, Patton finally straightening after a few minutes and fixing his slightly sweaty clothing and running a hand through his hair. "C'mon…" He smirked, slapping his friend on the back as he made his way into the shop. "I'll buy you a coffee."

"Make it a milkshake." Hoagie added, still giving him a scathing look. Patton scoffed as they reached the counter.

"But then that run was for nothing!"

"I ran all that way!" Hoagie countered, sneering at him. "I better be rewarded with something!"

Patton rolled his eyes, but he couldn't deny his friend had a point, and soon the two friends were happily slurping on a large milkshake each as they sat in a booth in the corner, grateful at a chance to finally sit down. Patton still watched his friend, however, and as he put the cup down and studied Hoagie closely he could see something was obviously wrong.

"So are you gonna tell me?" Patton asked bluntly, his eyebrows rising expectantly. Hoagie's own eyes narrowed, his chest suddenly constricting with nerves as Patton gave him a knowing look.

"Tell you what?" Hoagie mumbled, slurping up the last of his milkshake in a defeated way. Patton grinned expectantly.

"What's been up your ass recently?" Patton scoffed. "You can't deny something's bothering you, Hoags. And keeping it bottled up inside is doing you no favours."

Hoagie wrinkled his nose as he could feel his frustration rise. Everyone around him always had the same question- what's wrong?- And he could never have the heart to tell anyone what was really bothering him. What would it change, anyway? He faced the fact long ago Abby had chosen someone over him, and he had moved on from that senseless crush only a few months ago when he went out with Fanny, and again with Bonny. So what was the problem? His head drooped. He knew the problem. A baby was the problem- and Dingo was the problem. It seemed so unfair, as if Dingo had trapped Abby in something she couldn't get out of- something she couldn't escape from. She was stuck with him for life, and Dingo had simply waltzed into her life and snatched her from everyone's friendly hold with ease, and now he was reaping the awards. Abby stuck with him forever… it made Hoagie sick to think that that two faced, lying, cheating, tattooed, stupid, ignorant, aggressive, moronic-

"Hoags!"

He jumped with alarm, realising he was squeezing his empty milkshake cup so hard he'd completely crumpled it within his fist. He let go of it sheepishly, sighing in defeat as Patton's eyes seemed to widen with shock at the reaction.

"I…I love a girl I can't have…" Hoagie grumbled simply, sighing deeply as he admitted it. Saying out loud made it sound so simple. "Happy?"

Patton frowned. "Why…Why can't you have her?" He mumbled. "Can't you just…fight for her?"

"It isn't that simple…" Hoagie muttered. "She's got a baby by someone else."

"Oh…" Patton shared his friend's look of disappointment as he tried to gather up some reassuring phrases to cheer his friend up. "That sucks, Hoags."

"Yeah…" Hoagie growled. "It does."

"Well…" Patton rolled his eyes as he tried to think. "Look, you got a long life ahead of you- there's no need for you to get into that mess when there're loads of other girls out there, you need to concentrate on having fun…not finding the girl of your dreams! None of us should be looking for our soul mate…" he bit his lip, suddenly realising how true the words were. "I mean…we're only young…we should be… having fun, not getting married and having kids…" He smirked. "We'll have the rest of our lives to have that on our shoulders."

Hoagie gave him a feeble smile. "Yeah…and I really don't want to get involved in that…" But he still looked downcast as he continued. "But she means so much to me, and the guy- I don't trust him at all-"

"But that's her choice." Patton shrugged. "You can't help that in someone Hoagie…if she couldn't see you for how brilliant you are, she wasn't the girl for you…" He smirked. 'Other girls see it, Hoagie. Ones who will be willing to give themselves to you and only you. Just think about that, don't think about stuff you can't change."

Hoagie digested this, finally sighing with defeat. "You're right." He mumbled. He couldn't change the situation; all he could do was accept it.

"Be there for her…" Patton grinned. "You can still be friends, still keep her close right? And if it's meant to happen…it'll happen!" He smirked. "But I think there's another girl out there for you, Hoagie. A girl with a clean slate!"

Hoagie wrinkled his nose. He didn't like that way of thinking it- that Abby had been spoiled or stained…somehow she wasn't 'pure' anymore… He still thought of her as innocent and sweet Abby, who would never do anything to hurt anyone and was always there when he needed her…

But Patton was right…

If it's meant to happen…it'll happen.

Hoagie's phone buzzed in his pocket and he withdrew it, flicking the lid open to see a new text message from Nigel.

S.O.S from Rach- need help in the hall setting up for the talent show?

Hoagie smirked, quickly typing back a reply. Patton frowned, slurping up the last of the milkshake.

"What is it? Who's it from?"

"Uno." Hoagie grinned, slamming the phone back onto the table and returning to his drink. "We're heading over there to help out with the show."

Patton gaped, and Hoagie merely smirked back. "We?"

Fanny and Dodge stood together in the corner of the hall, making quick work of untangling a large ball of fairy lights to place on the walls. Dodge's fingers worked at working through the impossible knots, and Fanny stood by ready to wrap them in a neat ring around her wrist. Pretty soon they were done, and they handed the lights to Nigel who passed them to who was working at the walls up a ladder. Dodge draped his arms around his girl, heaving a small sigh into her shoulder before releasing her, Fanny whirling around and poking her tongue out in response. Dodge gave her a smirk in return, but still looked slightly troubled.

"What's up with you?" Fanny asked, a frown working into her features.

"I am really sorry about before…" Dodge mumbled sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck as his icy blue eyes widened guiltily. "I didn't mean to spring it on you like that, you can be honest, you don't have to like it-"

"Are you kidding? Who wouldn't love it? I'm flattered, not freaked out." Fanny gave him a genuine smile as she nudged him lightly with her shoulder. "I really do love it; I just wish I could…" She bit her lip, hating how mushy she sounded. "Show you how much I love you… You've really outdone me." She gave a sly smirk as Dodge seemed to pout at her.

"I wanted it to be romantic though…" He mumbled.

"I bet you did." Fanny grinned. "But admit it- you were too scared to show me."

Dodge nudged her back playfully, but he felt a telltale blush crawl up his neck anyway. He couldn't help it- he felt so helpless against her. Fanny grinned back, her own blush tainting her cheeks. She still couldn't believe that script on Dodge's wrist was real- she couldn't believe he would actually do that for her. Sure, they loved each other- but to have that dedication, that feeling, on his body for life- it was something wonderful, something amazing, something special that Fanny still couldn't figure out. She hoped this feeling was never lost, and she hoped the connection she shared with her man would never be broken. She knew…deep down, that she didn't think she could live without him now that she had him. As she watched her beau closely, a warm smile spread across her face as she thought of just how speechless he made her, and usually she had plenty to say to any guy.

All she could do was throw her arms around him in a sweet embrace, Dodge scoffing in surprise but nevertheless returning it, wrapping his arms around her and even lifting her off the ground so her sneakers dangled. She kissed his neck as he gently lowered her to the ground, a goofy grin plastered over his face.

"Sorry to interrupt."

Dodge's icy blue eyes rose at the voice, and they immediately hardened at the sight of Patton, who returned the hard gaze. Hoagie stood off to the side, and he could almost feel a chill engulf the room at the cold gazes the boys were giving each other, Fanny letting go of Dodge and turning to face them, a warm smile on her face as she walked over to greet the two boys.

"Hey guys." She smirked, her thumbs hooking into the pockets of her jeans. "Guess Rachel recruited you guys too, huh?"

"Yeah." Patton suddenly grinned at the sight of her, the chore ahead less grueling with the thought of Fanny around. The sight of the fiery redhead, her casual clothing that she managed to wear as if it were the sexiest lingerie, drove him crazy, and her face- not covered in any makeup, instead glowing bright with natural freckles cutely littering her cheeks- gazing up at him like that, he had to fight back just to grab her and kiss her, never letting her go.

Dodge glared daggers at the pair, well aware of the dark eyes that were practically undressing his girl. His fingers flexed into a fist, his fingernails digging into his palms as he tried to hold himself back. He bit his lip anxiously, looking down in sheepish alarm. No…hold…back…

"Yeah…" Hoagie added, and he frowned at the tension between the two, and he was surprised Fanny couldn't sense it. Dodge was nearing murderous; the look in his icy blue eyes seemed to hint that he was ready to swallow him whole. They had neared the colour of a dark blue. He lightened up immediately at the sight of Nigel, grabbing him and dragging him into the small group with a hopeful grin. "Uno! Just the man I wanted to see! So where do we start? Rachel said you guys needed some help with some things-?"

"Oh yeah." The Brit grinned, greeting the pair with a grateful smile. "Thanks for coming, guys. What we need is, uh, two of you to take those heavy boxes to the storage closet down the hall-" With this, he pointed to the far hallway, which lead into the storage closets. "And the other two, I gotta get some help with the stage checklist." The poor guy sighed as he looked it over. "I don't get it at all, and I have no idea where to find this stuff-"

Fanny cast him a sympathetic look, looking over his shoulder. "Well, I helped out with the musical last year, I know where we can find this stuff…"

Patton's eyes lit up, immediately stepping forward to volunteer to accompany the pair, but Dodge's reflexes were quicker, and he gave his girl a reassuring grin, masking the inner fury that was burning in the pit of his stomach.

"And me and Pat can grab those boxes." He grinned, turning to Patton with that fake smile plastered on his face. "Think you can handle that?"

Fanny looked up, giving her boyfriend a genuine smile. She was impressed, she knew how much Dodge hated Patton, and she had lectured him before on giving him a chance and being nice to him. She didn't think he'd actually follow through, but she gave him a grateful smile which he returned.

"Uh…" Patton pouted, looking put out. "Yeah, sure-"

"Thanks guys." Nigel grinned at the pair of them. "Guess that means Hoagie, Fan- follow me."

The trio wandered off to explore backstage, which just left Dodge and Patton together, alone. Patton wasted no time in picking up one of the heavy boxes, holding them to his chest as he made his way to the storage closet, fuming. He knew Dodge planned this, he didn't care how he just wanted them to be apart…he saw him as a threat… At this, Patton smirked. Good. He should be scared.

Dodge followed behind clutching his own box, sizing up his opponent. He had to clear this whole situation up; the guy had to know what he was messing with. Otherwise he'd just keep coming back like some annoying pest…

Patton wrestled with the doorknob before filing into the closet, anxious to complete the job as quickly as possible to get out of this awkward silence with his known opponent. Dodge followed close behind, throwing his own box down among the other stored items. Patton turned, ready to walk out the door, when it snapped shut, Dodge's hand thrown out of nowhere to slam it closed. Patton's eyes rose, and he was immediately met with narrowed icy blue eyes. Patton matched his glare, his dark eyes boring into his in the limited light of the storage hall closet.

"Listen…" Dodge began, his voice calm but with undeniable aggression underlying. he took a deep breath, attempting to calm himself, and started again. "I know you like my girl…"

At this Patton folded his arms, cocking his eyebrow. Dodge's fingers curled into a fist again, his teth gritted with frustration.

"And I don't know how…" He added in a low growl. "But I know you're the one who sent her that photo of me."

Patton 's lips twitched, but managed to keep up his stony expression. Dodge narrowed his eyes.

"How much do you know about my past?"

"Enough to know that Fanny deserves to know." Patton snapped back, not missing a beat.

"She knows." Dodge snarled, hating the venom that was in his voice, but he couldn't stop now, the anger was overflowing. Patton's eyes flickered towards his wrist, which was still outstretched to hold the door closed. His eyes flashed with anger.

"What's with the whole Cherry thing?" Patton spat hatefully, his eyes narrowing. "Her name is Fanny, okay? At least I have the decency to call her by her first name. What do you think this is, The Outsiders? Who are you? Ponyboy Curtis?"

"Hey!" Dodge stuck his chin out, his arms folding across his chest. "Don't diss the only book I read in high school."

"Whatever." Patton snarled. "She's my friend. She fucking deserved to know."

"You want her to be more than that." Dodge snapped back, closing the distance between them. "And I'm gonna tell you here and now- that's not going to happen."

"Oh, really?" Patton growled dangerously, matching his stance. "You gonna let her decide that?"

The two boys glared at each other hatefully, standing strong side by side in the confining closet. Dodge's anger was reaching boiling point, and it took all of his energy to calm himself down enough to give him a low growl of warning.

"Of course I am…" Dodge fumed. "But she's with me now, and it's her choice…and she's chosen to be with me." his eyes narrowed. "She had all those years to choose you and she didn't."

Patton smirked. "I was away then…" He winked, leering. "But I'm back now, aren't I?"

A flash, a burning seemed to echo through Dodge, and he closed his eyes, his fingers twitching. He took a deep breath, managing to keep his fury at bay, and Patton was taken aback at the desperate look in Dodge's eyes as he managed to open them again, staring into Patton's face seriously.

"Listen…" Dodge rumbled. "You may think you know me…but you don't." He took another breath. "I…I love this girl, more than anything…" He swallowed. "And…and I'm not used to having something like this in my life, I come from…from a different life to what you had…and I just…need to tell you…" Dodge glared straight into his face, his tone flat and final. "If you try to take her away from me, you will definitely, definitely regret it."

Patton froze. "Are you…" He frowned. "Threatening me?"

"I'm just saying." Dodge seemed to frown. "I can't…be responsible for my actions…I don't get angry often…but when I do…my father really…kinda…shows…" he swallowed, feeling sheepish. He couldn't believe he was actually warning his opponent. But he knew the truth- He realized just how much Fanny meant to him just by how upset he got whenever the threat was around she may not be around forever…He only got this protective over one other person in his life…

"You don't wanna see me angry, Patton, okay? From what I come from, you don't want to see me upset."

Patton's lips fell agape at the chilling promise, and before he could reply Dodge had pulled open the door, stomping out before Patton had the chance to respond. Dodge breathed heavily, running a hand through his hair as he tried to calm himself down…No need to panic, after all… But he couldn't help it, he knew Fanny meant the world to him, and he didn't want to lose her… But he'd never been this attached…This emotional…Irrational…

Except…

The only time Dodge had ever shown he was his father's son was one time, and that's all it took.

He was sixteen. At his house, in his driveway- to be exact. Dingo was revving pathetically at the old Commodore in front of them, while Dodge's patience was quickly wearing thin- yet he still smirked at Bandit's efforts- and his childlike tantrums.

"I don't get it!" Bandit pouted with anger, a smear of oil up his cheek and engine grease up his arms. He glared at the engine hatefully, sticking his head once again under the open hood of the car. "Why won't you run?"

"I don't think yelling at it will help Bando…" Dingo drawled with boredom, flicking his cigarette as he sat in the driver's seat- the door wide open. "It's dead."

"It is not!" Bandit whined back. "I haven't failed yet- and YOU-" He pointed at the car, narrowing his eyes threateningly. "Will not be the first!"

Dodge and Dingo exchanged smirks, enjoying Bandit's passionate whinging about fixing his friend's bomb. Bandit was the most knowledgeable out of the three, so they had all agreed he was the best suited to fix this- if anyone could- but he was becoming more of an entertainment value than a useful one, and that was the sole reason they hadn't called it a day yet.

The front door of the house then suddenly slammed open, and all three of them jumped with the yelling that followed- especially Dodge, who looked over the roof of the car in alarm, expecting the worst. He knew it was a bad idea to stay at his house…But his dad was locked up, he thought it was safe-

But his eyes widened at the sight, and his lips gaped in alarm, hardly daring to believe it.

Dread stomped out of the house, ranting and raving- screaming back inside all the curses he could muster. He looked furious yet smug, his dark brown hair ruffled and wild. Dodge stared, shocked. he looked exactly like their father…and he hated it, it was too similar and the scene was too close to being a flashback to the past.

"Dread!"

The trio heard a desperate cry within the house, and Dodge's mother appeared at the door, shaken and crying. Dodge stiffened, a sudden fire alit within him. He glared, stone-faced, as the scene unfolded.

"Dread, please don't do this!" His mother, Leyla, whimpered as she ran after him, her petite body an inch shorter than her oldest son, but still grabbing onto his arm as he attempted to stomp away from her. "Dread, you're not-"

"GET THE FUCK OFF ME!" Dread suddenly hollered, and without a second thought he'd hit her roughly, both fists connecting with herface as he pushed her into the dirt. Leyla fell roughly, her slender figure crumpling on the rough ground and her face frozen in shock, a hand snapping to her cheek as she stared, wide eyed, at the monster her son had become. She never thought she'd actually fear her baby… Dread stared over her, looking disgusted.

"You're nothing but a fucking whore, anyway!" Dread yelled at her, furious. "Dad was right with THAT one!"

He turned to stomp off, but stopped suddenly as he saw his path was blocked- by none other than his little brother. Standing a head shorter, slightly shaped with muscle but otherwise scrawny, with those stupid innocent icy blue eyes and a blank expression, Dread curled up his fist in preparation.

"Get 'outta my fuckin' way." Dread snarled, leering over Dodge threateningly. Dodge blinked, a pause of silence- and all Dread saw was Dodge's fist fly at his face- skin on skin, straight into the skull. But not once, Dodge slammed into him again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

Soon he was nothing more than a blur as he launched himself onto his older brother- who he had always kept clear of and kept distance from, and now he was laying into him, slamming his fists into every available part of his body as all that ran through his head was how much pain he wished him to feel.

"YOU FUCKING PIECE OF FUCKING SHIT!" Dodge found himself hollering, grabbing at his brother's neck and quickly tightening his grip. Dread stared up in alarm, his little brother's face twisted with hate and malice, his icy blue eyes darkening to almost black- alive and flashing with promising bloodlust. "YOU FUCKING HIT HER! YOU THINK YOU CAN HIT HER! SHE BROUGHT YOU INTO THIS WORLD, YOU PIECE OF FUCKING TRASH!"

"DODGE! OH MY GOD DODGE NO!" Leyla screamed, horrified at her baby. She pathetically tried to get to her feet, stumbling over to try and get him off. "STOP! BABY STOP! NO!"

"I'LL KILL YOU DREAD! I'LL KILL YOU!" Dodge promised, grabbing at his skull and slamming it into the ground.

Dread couldn't move, he could barely breathe as he felt the weight of his brother and the aggression that was flooding out. All he could do was try and defend miserably, feeling desperate as everything Dodge threw at him he couldn't match.

Bandit was horrified, speechless with shock as he watched the scene unfold in a matter of seconds. He barely knew Dread, but he knew Dodge and this wasn't him. He felt tears spark in his eyes. Dingo watched with awe, unsure of what to do or think. He'd never seen Dodge like this before…

"DODGE!" His mother was by then sobbing. She could finally see it- after years of doubt she finally saw their father within them both… but she thought Dodge was different… "PLEASE STOP!"

"HOW DOES IT FEEL TO GET BEAT UP, HUH?" Dodge screamed into his brother's face, and Dread attempted to shout back but all that seemed to come was a choked sob. Dodge grabbed at the collar of his shirt, finally stopping but still yanked him closer, so they were nose to nose.

"NOW!" Dodge snarled hatefully, shaking his brother's trembling form. "You can apologise to her."

Dread shook in his brother's grip, completely horrified and in incredible pain after his brother's series of blows. All he could see was his brother's homicidal snarl, his glistening black eyes promising more violence and anger. And from behind his brother's shoulder his own mother's wide eyed, horrified expression, tears littering her dirt stained face as she watched her two boys.

"I…I-I'm sorry." Dread managed to snarl, but all he could do was gasp, panting for air as Dodge finally released him. "Oh-Okay? I'm sorry."

"Good." Dodge rasped, rising to his feet. He swallowed as a heavy silence weighed on him, and he was suddenly aware of all the eyes that were locked on him. He looked down at his hands, bruised and scraped from laying into his brother, and his heart was racing, thumping dangerously in his chest from the adrenaline rush. He felt awkward, and Dread was staring up at him with horror…he knew he'd done something pretty harsh to make Dread of all people shocked.

He took a deep breath, running a hand through his hair as he made his way into the house, eager to escape it all. He'd never been that angry, he'd never been taken over like that before…but at the sight of his mother beaten again and by his own BROTHER no doubt…that set him off. He growled, yanking at his hair worriedly as he found himself staring into the hall mirror, his icy blue eyes staring into his reflection.

Maybe he was his father after all…

A loud beeping and a bright ray of light wasn't the best thing Dread had ever woken up to, but as he reached over to smash his fist blindly into his loud phone- which was bleating like a rabid goat and disrupting his bliss of slumber- he at least remembered the small mercy that his wake up call wasn't a prison guard banging against the bars of his cell.

"WHAT?" He snarled loudly into his pillow, squeezing his eyes closed before peering out into the bright light of his cell phone's screen. He fumbled with it, glaring at the new text message with venom.

Growling, he rolled over and harshly threw off the covers to trudge out the door of the small bedroom and open the door beside it, into the bedroom beside his. He scrunched up his fist and slammed it into the sleeping body of Jayden beside him, who growled with pain as he was given a vicious awakening. In the limited light, Dread could just make out his grey eyes blinked sleepily, feebly worming back into the covers in defence.

"Get up…" Dread snarled at him, shoving him lightly and issuing his friend a warning scowl. "We're supposed to meet the drug bitch in half an hour."

Jayden growled dangerously as he awoke, sounding remarkably like an angered badger. His teeth glinted in the dark as he stumbled to his feet, pulling his socks on blindly and slipping on his shoes. "Why d'we have t' getup so early?" He snarled, stamping his feet on the harsh concrete as he turned to glare at his partner. "Couldn't we have met'er at lunchtime?"

"It is lunch time!" Dread retorted, rolling his eyes as he pulled on his hoodie. "And tidy up a bit around here!" He gestured to the leftover powder and assortment of files that littered most of the empty space of room. "I have a feeling she ain't gonna be too cooperative, and she's gonna have to be dragged here for info anyway-"

"If that does happen- the lack of housekeeping 'round here will be the least of her worries." Jayden grumbled, yawning as he got up and stretched- flexing his muscles and batting his eyes to shake off the last signs of sleep. "What do you even hope to get for this meeting anyway?" He growled, folding his arms across his chest and cocking an eyebrow.

"Just trust me on this…" Dread smirked over his shoulder, throwing his friend a cocky look as he ruffled his flat dark chestnut hair. "I know how to find 'em…if anyone knows them it's me."

Jayden frowned with slight suspicion. Dread was his best friend, and he had been ever since they were in primary school together. He was the only one who had ever been able to talk some sense into him and they had stuck by each other no matter what happened- always coming to each other's aid no matter what the occasion. But the one thing that had ever come between them was Dread's sudden obsession with the one he affectionately named Bambi…the very best friend of his own little brother. Jayden didn't trust Bandit- ever since Bandit started crushing on his little brother- dragging him into a world of a whole other sexuality, Dread quickly falling for the pathetic kid too. Bandit

was the only thing the best friends had ever fought about- Jayden declaring their relationship unhealthy and that it had taken over his life. It had caused so many fights between them and a number of times Dread had been forced to choose between his best friend and his lover. Jayden eventually accepted it grudgingly- but still he hated the stupid kid that acted like a baby. The thought of Bandit was enough to drive Dread wild- completely altering his usually logical thought process and instead replacing it with impulses of lust and anger. Nobody had ever had that much power before, and Jayden hated how it changed his friend so much.

"Just remember the plan." Jayden reminded him lowly, eyes narrowed. "Don't get too wrapped in your little love dispute-"

"I won't." Dread drawled, rolling his eyes and grabbing the keys to their stolen car. "Don't you trust me?"

"Yeah, yeah…" Jayden sighed, stuffing his hands in his pockets. It's your libido I don't trust… He added mentally as he followed his friend.

Mushi flicked through the channels, switching from cartoons, music videos, talk shows, infomercials, and anything else that was available on mid-morning television. Not a real lot. She leaned her head against her hand, sighing to herself as she glumly stared at the screen, her eyes glazed over in boredom. There was nothing to do around the apartment, yet she highly doubted Trent would let her out of the house, and although he was nowhere nearby, she knew once he found out he wouldn't be happy. She frowned in frustration.

But who am I to take orders from him…? She wondered, her eyes glazing over the cooking show in front of her. I'm a teenager, and nobody has ever ordered me around before and gotten away with it…what hold does he have on me anyway? It's not like I'm a hostage anymore…

Her thoughts were interrupted by a sharp ringing of the phone, which was mounted on the wall in the kitchen. She rose to answer it, frowning as she did. Hardly anyone rang on that phone, she guessed it came with the apartment and hardly anyone had the need for it, everyone used their cell phones. She was positive she was the only one who even knew the number.

"Hello?" She answered.

"Madeline!" a shrill voice answered on the other end. Mushi froze, blinking in alarm. She knew that voice… "Where you been young'in? You still with us? You haven't been showing up for shifts…"

"Irma!" She bit her lip. "Y-yeah, I'm so sorry, I've been having issues with my family and we had to move and-"

"Yeah, yeah…" Irma rolled her eyes carelessly. "Francine warned me 'bout your life, hun. I knew that when I hired 'ya. My main point is that I finally got a hold o' 'ya, and I need another gal on…you want a shift today?"

Mushi hesitated, looking around the bland, empty apartment complex with boredom. She was stuck here- with nobody. She didn't even know if Trent was home, he seemed to come and go as he pleased. Same with the girls, who were always out doing their own thing. Bandit always came into her mind, but it seemed as though even if they shared mutual affections for each other, he was avoiding her too. It was as if she was a trend that had gone out of style, everyone just walked around her now, even Trent- her supposed 'boyfriend' was treating her like a wall ornament. Who would she be to take orders from people who didn't even appreciate her?

Not Mushi Sanban, that's for sure.

She heaved herself to her feet, stomping over defiantly to her room and grabbing her uniform. As her eyes flicked to her empty bed, she wasn't sure what to make of it. Biting her lip she wandered into the hallway, where she ran smack-bang into Bonny, whose eyes widened in alarm.

"Uh, Mushi!" She squeaked, immediately hiding the crumpled pieces of paper behind her back. "What are you doing here?"

"Uh!" Mushi quickly hid the uniform behind her back. "Nothing…"

The two girls stood side by side in the hallway, their hands held awkwardly behind their backs. Finally Bonny let out a sigh, flicking her shoulder length brown hair and giving the teenager a knowing look.

"I won't tell…" She mumbled, a sly smirk working its way onto her face. "If you won't."

Mushi grinned, and for that split second she was reminded of Kuki, and the sisterly bond the two shared- keeping secrets, looking out for each other. For that moment it was as if Bonny's sly grin was Kuki's, those kind, knowing eyes were Kuki's…

"Thanks, Bonny." Mushi relaxed with relief, sighing happily. Bonny grinned back, tapping her nose as she opened the front door.

"You too, Moosh."

Bandit blinked those doleful navy blue eyes up at Trent's bare back, his pouty bottom lips trembling dangerously. He clenched at the blankets around him anxiously, bt refused to back down, despite repeated warnings from his best friend to stop it.

Trent slid his shirt over his head, his face crumpled in annoyance as he attempted to ignore the almost piercing sensation prickling his skin. He couldn't. he whirled around, his arms folded sternly across his chest as he glared down at those ocean blue eyes, hoping his expression carried the burning anger and frustration within his system. He growled as Bandit blinked back, unaffected.

"I said stop it." Trent growled at him. "I mean it, Bando. Don't make me say it again."

"Why?" Bandit mumbled, still with those puppy dog eyes burning bright. "Because you can't look me in the eye?"

"Jus- Just…enough, okay?" Trent hissed at him, closing the distance between the two as Trent tried as hard as he could to keep his face straight, his eyes narrowing. "Just forget it."

"Something happened." Bandit hissed back. "I can't forget that Trent. Something happened."

"Enough!" Trent snapped at him under his breath. "You're my best mate, Bando-"

"Don't call me that!" Bandit suddenly snarled harshly, those usually serene blue eyes rippling with raw emotion. "That's Dodge and Dingo's name for me! Y-you get your own!"

Trent twisted his lips in frustration, his hands tightening into dangerous fists.

"Well that name is tainted now isn't it?" He rasped, every word cutting into Bandit like a whip. Bandit's eyes suddenly widened and he withdrew, his shield now down. Trent immediately faltered as Bandit broke away, his eyes filling with thick tears and his fingers tightening against the bed sheets, his eyes closing-

"That was low." Trent whispered, more to himself than anything. Before he knew it he'd sat back on the soft sheets, already craving those eyes to look at him. His throat tightened as he realised just how much he'd hurt him, he couldn't stand that guilty feeling- not again. Trent had already closed the distance between them before he'd even been aware of it. He was taken, filled with emotions he'd repressed for so many years, it was as if giving into a drug…unlike anything he'd ever felt before… Nobody else could make him this passive and desperate.

"I'm sorry." He mumbled, shameful. "Believe me, I am. I'm sorry. It just…came out-"

"Just admit it…" Bandit choked out thickly, burying his face into his knees as he fought back sobs. "You believe that, it's the truth! You-you think I-I'm-"

"I don't." Trent growled at him, before he knew it his arms were wrapped around him, his eyes gazing at him hard. "I'm sorry, alright? That was a fucked thing to say Band, you're still my mate…" Trent sighed, his nose nuzzling into Bandit's shoulder as he forced the words. He wasn't used to being so truthful, but it was as if Bandit blocked those defensive receptors in his brain, and he was left vulnerable to anything Bandit threw at him.

"I…I was always jealous." He mumbled. "Okay? It was hard for me to accept that you were someone else's. You were always mine and… I guess I'm still not over it."

He withdrew his arms and Bandit pouted at the loss of warmth, his tear stained face rising to see Trent had stood up, walking to the door with finality. Bandit immediately felt regret. Those words had hit him hard, and he had to admit he did put it on a little bit for some of Trent's attention…

"Trent…" Bandit whimpered. Trent froze with his hand on the doorknob, but he knew out there somewhere was a girl who honestly believed they were together… and even the pleading voice from the bed- the one he couldn't resist- couldn't block that common sense.

"I'm sorry." Trent mumbled, without turning, and without another word he opened the door, closing it sharply behind him.

Wallabee was sure to give both his mother and father a hug as he left for Kuki's in the morning. He wanted to let them know there were no hard feelings. After all, the whole situation would have occurred even if they hadn't known…and all he could concentrate on was how his best friend and own brother had betrayed his trust, he couldn't comprehend his parents as well.

He walked up to her dorm in high spirits, already cheering up at the thought of seeing his girl. As he knocked on the door, a fluttery, tingling sensation seemed to flow through him- he still got those butterflies at the thought of seeing her.

The door opened and as soon as Wallabee caught a glimpse of those bright violet eyes he beamed, Kuki beaming in return. She'd been consumed with horrifying nerves as soon as she'd woken up, and seeing her strong blonde Viking at the door, that was enough to cheer her up completely.

"Wally!" She grinned, almost jumping for joy. "Thank goodness you're here!"

Wally smirked in return, lifting at the thought of being needed. He pulled out his gift from behind his back, offering them to his girl. Kuki's eyes bulged at the sight of the large bouquet of yellow roses.

"For my star." he grinned at her. "I didn't want to get the cliché red…" He smirked. "Besides, apparently yellow means everlasting love."

"I love them!" Kuki squealed, her smile only widening as she threw her arms around him, gripping the flowers lovingly in her arms. her heart warmed as the sweet scent calmed her. "Thank you, Wally…"

Wally beamed as he stepped inside, closing the door as Kuki bustled off to find a vase to put them in, chatting excitingly as she went. But Wally's smile soon faded as he looked around the apartment, and he sighed grumpily as he took in the surroundings…oh…right he seemed to snarl to himself. This is Abby's apartment too…

"Are you okay?"

Kuki's concerned tone hit him like a ton of bricks, and Wally turned his head to see she'd placed his bouquet in a vase, a generous amount of water at the bottom. She placed them on the table, her violet eyes twinkling worriedly at her boyfriend. She skipped over, her arms wrapping around him. He gratefully accepted the hug, drawing her in and inhaling her sweet lavender perfume, mixed with roses too…

"I'm fine." He assured her, giving her a swift peck on her temple. Kuki frowned, her eyebrows raising as she looked up at him.

"You can't lie to me…" She teased, reaching up to stroke at his cheek. Wally snarled with frustration, but still leaned into her touch. His family drama was even starting to seep into his relationship with Kuki…was there no escaping his totally screwed up family tree.

"Guess I'm still upset…" Wally attempted to sound careless, but Kuki could hear the obvious hurt in his voice as though he was shouting it. "You know, like…the kid an-and Abby and stuff…and my brother-"

"You have a right to be upset." Kuki frowned, looking up into his face. "Why wouldn't you be?"

"Doesn't change anything…" Wally snarled. "I talked to my family, and I understand…why he hates me and all. My family has a history of hating each other…it gives him an excuse… but I still don't wanna see him- either of them. But it doesn't matter if I'm sad about it. They're still together. Abby's still knocked up. You know, its still going to happen if I accept it or not-"

"But you still have to let it out!" Kuki urged, sounding genuinely concerned as her arms tightened around him. "I'm here for you Wally…you know that right?"

"I know." He sighed into her hair, holding her close as he closed his eyes. "Feels like you're the only thing real, really."

"I feel awful…" Kuki's face drooped, her cheek grazing his shirt as she snuggled against him sadly. "I think maybe I'm taking this contest too seriously…I should be a better girlfriend and be there for you-"

"Aw Kooks!" Wally talked over her, scoffing as he pulled her in even closer, murmuring into her forehead sweetly as he kissed her. "You're always helping other people, and I really wanna hear you sing. It's the only thing I'm really excited for in the near future, to be honest." He cupped at her chin, forcing her to look up into those deep, twinkling emerald green eyes. "Just you."

Kuki smiled, dazed under those sparkling green irises. The two were locked in a loving embrace for what felt like an eternity. A peaceful silence was between them, and the two felt so close and whole neither of them wanted to let go. It felt like a record scratching, however, when the door suddenly burst open and a high pitched squeal seemed to cut through the couple, the two jumping apart and looking wildly around for the noise.

"Kuki!" The sound screeched again, and Hollie skipped into the room, her eyes lined so dark and thick she resembled a raccoon and her ginger hair a wild mess. She flailed her hands, fanning her acrylic nails worriedly as she ran into the apartment. "Oh my Gawd! You are not going to buh-leive- oh…" She broke, halting mid-skip and stumbling to a stop as she eyed the couple, clearly only just realising she'd barged in on a tender moment. "Uh…" She gave them an awkward look, nibbling her lip. "Soz?"

Wally glanced over at her, but still couldn't muster up a smile. Sure, he'd accepted that his girlfriend needed to help someone in need…but he still couldn't look at the girl who he'd once had his lips all over… he still didn't trust her, after her all over him, on Dingo's orders, the fact she was Dingo's ex, she'd known him since they were kids…the whole sight of her made him slightly sick, and even though he'd accepted her as friend and not foe, he still just wanted to see the back of her.

"Oh hey Hollie." Kuki was better in masking her disappointment as she approached the girl, giving her a quick hug as her kind way of welcoming. Hollie accepted, giving Wally an apologetic look before returning to Kuki.

"Sorry to barge in…" Hollie mumbled, nibbling on her bottom lip. "But Bonny looked up flights this morning, and the only flight we could get on such short notice for so soon was tonight."

"Tonight?" Kuki repeated, her eyes wide. "Are you sure that's all you could get?"

"It's holidays soon back home…" Hollie groaned, nervously tugging at her hair. "Its at 11:30, we have some time to make it after the show, but there's no guarantee! And even if we do win I can't get the money straight away! Unless you know a bank who would cash a big fake check at 11 o'clock at night…" Hollie looked thoroughly miserable, looking more saddened by the second. "The next flight we could grab was two weeks from now…I can't wait that long when he's after me now, and I can't afford to stay anywhere else-"

"Stop." Kuki held her arm, looking deep into the girl's face. Hollie sheepishly met her gaze. "We'll win, okay? You'll get the money to go home and you will get home…even if I have to pay for the flight myself."

Wally gaped, as did Hollie as she stared at the girl with awe.

"Oh, Kuki- I-I couldn't do that-"

"We're gonna win anyway!" Kuki gave her a confident smile "I have some money saved in my account, I can give you a check today as long as you're there for the concert tonight. And we'll win, and you can easily pay me back."

Hollie blinked at the sweet girl before her, overcome with the fact that anybody would be this nice to her. Hollie had never been the nicest girl, because she'd never been surrounded by nice people. Kuki was the first girl who had ever completely generous to her, and Hollie still couldn't believe their whole relationship started because Hollie was out to destroy her. All the girl could do was gasp, and throw her arms around the girl she felt so thankful for.

"Oh my god!" She found herself sobbing. "You'd do that, for me? You're so sweet Kuki! I'm forever in your debt! You need anything, sweetie! ANYTHING! You can call!"

"Uh…" Kuki had to smirk at her boyfriend's horrified expression as she embraced the girl back, but winced slightly at the grip. "You could…allow me to…breathe-"

"Oh!" Hollie quickly withdrew, still flustered. "Sorry! But-but thank you Kuki! I'll repay the favour one day, I swear!"

"Don't mention it…" Kuki smiled, and genuinely she felt it. She truly felt for the fiery Aussie girl, she really did. Her story had captured her, and she already felt Hollie had enough emotional scars, she didn't need yet another one. "Just…let's kick butt tonight ok? Sing our heart out?"

"Of course!" Hollie beamed, trembling with excitement. "Yeah! Of course! Just let me call Bon, and we'll book the flight!"

Kuki grinned as Hollie bustled off, brimming with joy at finally escaping. Wally seemed to givfe his girl a lecturing look, but Kuki raised her eyebrows knowingly.

"I just want what's best…" She mumbled. "She really needs to get out of the country, Wally."

"As long as its for the right reasons…" Wally grumbled, frowning. He knew Kuki had a giving, sweet nature, and it was very easy for people to take advantage of her…which made his blood boil at the very thought. "Not for drugs, or anything…"

"I believe her." Kuki said, determined. "Can you trust me on that?"

Wally sighed, winding his arms around her shoulders. "In that case…if you wanna say goodbye, ya know…I can drive you straight after the show."

Kuki's eyes widened.

"Then…then they can make it- they won't be rushing for the flight." Wally shrugged. "If you wanna-"

But Kuki had already swept him up in a kiss, tightening her grip as she embraced her man, grateful as she could clearly see the trust he placed with her.

"I keep telling you!" Lizzie snarled viciously at the two boys sitting in front of her. "I'm not a dealer!"

Dread clawed at his jeans, trying to distract himself by digging his fingers into his own legs than around her fat neck. Girls had always been a great annoyance for him- only useful when they didn't talk- but this one was really trying his patience. When he'd first laid eyes on her he knew the type- annoying and whiny…He'd cringed at the very sight of her. Sure, he'd fucked girls before…but this is why he preferred guys. Her beady eyes, pudgy face, stupid glasses and whiny voice were straining against his patience…and he was never a tolerant person.

Jayden was slightly more enduring, but not by much. He was, however, able to hold back a furious retort to swallow calmly, tilting his head curiously at the girl as he gulped down his drink, resisting the urge to smash the empty glass into her face.

"We're just curious, that's all…" He muttered delicately. "We're thinking it may lead us to someone we know-"

"I have no relationships with druggies." Lizzie sniffed snootily, her eyes rolling towards the ceiling as she sipped daintily at her drink. She had only come to this meeting with the threat that she'd be exposed as a druggie…which totally was not true. The only reason she was involved with scum such as this is because of one deal, and that was only to recruit someone to get back at her Nigel. But she had to admit… She watched them over her glass as she thought this. …these were some fine looking guys…

Dread twitched, his fingers flexing as though practicing the action on her neck- and Jayden sensed danger, grabbing his wrist under the table and flashing Lizzie a sweet smirk.

"Excuse us…" he simpered, dragging his friend from the booth and leading him down the aisle before either of them could commit a felony. Lizzie watched them go, her teeth grazing at her bottom lip as she held back a smug grin. Jayden dragged his partner through the restaurant, pulling him to a halt outside the mens room, where they were hidden from her prying gaze.

"I'm done." Dread hissed as soon as they were out of earshot. "You fuckin' hear me mate? I ain't putting up with her crap anymore- stick a knife to her throat and get her in the goddamn car!"

Jayden rounded on him, his grey eyes narrowed.

"Would you relax?" He purred, but his eyes flashed with the same bloodlust. "This bitch is easy. She's practically undressing you with her eyes-"

"Don't make me sick." Dread spat with hatred, his eyes narrowing viciously. "I'm this close to ripping every hair out of her fat head."

Jayden rolled his eyes, reaching over and grabbing his friend's shirt, dragging him closer to glare darkly into his face. "You're not getting it." He snarled into his face, and Dread stared back murderously. He hated being told what to do. "We gotta get info outta this bitch and nobody can trust what anyone says under threat."

"Nah!" Dread snarled back, twitching violently. "Fuck that- she'd be so scared shitless she'd sell her own mother's soul when I'm done with her-"

"Shutup." Jayden hissed back. Dread narrowed his eyes, looking ready to hit him. Jayden raise his eyebrows. "Have I ever led you astray?"

Dread snarled at him but kept silent, folding his arms and growling like a child throwing a silent tantrum. Jayden rolled his eyes, yanking him even closer.

"I know bitches like this…" Jayden rasped in his ear. "And trust me, you gotta drown them in sugar to get any results…"

"Fine." Dread snarled hatefully, looking murderous as he glared into his friend's eyes, as if trying to stare him down. "So what are you gonna do to get her home?"

"What am I gonna do?" Jayden simpered, sniggering as he cocked an eyebrow suggestively. Dread froze, his lips twisting maliciously. "Oh no, bro…you're the one who she has eyes for…"

Dread's eyes widened, flashing dangerously as he gaped at his best friend, shoving him roughly into the opposite wall as Jayden stifled his smug laughter.

"Shutup!" Dread snarled. "That ain't fuckin' funny, Jay!"

"You wanna find your Bambi, or not?" Jayden snickered, his eyebrows rising. "Besides, you're the one who's already sayin' you're bi, not gay."

"I am." Dread mumbled angrily. "But not…" He shivered. "That."

"That's what vodka's for…" Jayden said chirpily, pushing passed him with a smirk. "Whatever, dude, I'm gonna do anything to get Hollie, but if you don't want Bambi that badly…" He left on that note, looking over his shoulder to wink at the horrified look on his best friend's face. Dread glared at his retreating back, stomping and jumping up and down for a few seconds angrily before he scrunched up his fists and face, taking a few deep breaths as his tantrum subsided.

"Fine." He spat under his breath, his eyes flashing scathingly as he relaxed, following his friend back to the table. "Fine."

"Honestly, Patton." Hoagie snarled into the phone as he slammed his car door closed, rolling his eyes as he made his way across the car park. "I don't know why you're obsessed with getting me a girlfriend when you're pretty much it! You're more annoying than one and take up as much time as one!"

"Shutup!" Patton growled into his phone, narrowing his eyes. "I'm just indecisive that's all! And I just want you to know that I hate all forms of mayonnaise, I don't feel like chicken OR sesame seeds, or-"

"Yeah, yeah!" Hoagie sighed, making his way into the diner. "You've reminded me of that FOUR times! I'll get you something you like!"

"If you'd just read me the menu…" Patton whined into the receiver.

"I'll get you something you like!" Hoagie again tried to shake him off, snarling into the phone as he made to close it. "Just relax! And go do some work!"

"But-!"

Hoagie quickly ended the call, shoving the cell phone back into his pocket to quickly be forgotten. He was just finally relieved to have somewhat of a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere about him, even when the air was thick with the smell of bacon grease, he still felt a familiar, warm energy around the diner, and immediately he was re-energized and ready to face the busy day ahead.

He approached the counter and slumped against it, sighing in relief as he grabbed a menu, scanning through the contents even though he knew every item by heart.

"Hi…" A soft voice seemed to whisper to him. "What can I get you?"

"I need something to go-" Hoagie looked up, and immediately lost all train of thought as he found himself staring into a familiar, pale, youthful face. A pair of innocent eyes gazed back at him almost dream-like, before widening in alarm as she too gazed into a familiar pair of deep eyes. "Mushi?"

"Hoagie?" Mushi gaped, stepping back in alarm. Immediately all she felt was humiliation- caught at work, her fingers covered in grease, draped in a dumpy waitress uniform. Her pale cheeks dulled to a deep pink, and her eyes flicked backwards and forwards to find a quick exit. But there was none.

"What are you doing here?" He asked her, frowning. "You work here?"

"Obviously…" Mushi sighed, knowing the jig was up. "Just for some extra cash-"

"I hope it's got nothing to do with…" Hoagie gave her a knowing look, his eyes cold as he watched her protectively. Mushi bit her lip. She knew what he was talking about.

"Just don't worry about it, I promise I'll fill you in later." Mushi promised, those innocent eyes gazing up at him. Hoagie sighed, but knew he couldn't resist her angel-like stare. She still seemed so cute and sweet, he had trouble doubting her word. She looked nervously over to Irma, who was watching her close, and she pulled out her pad and pen and looked into Hoagie's face as though he was a complete stranger. "Right now…I gotta take your order."

Hoagie still gave her a disapproving look, but with one last pleading glance he gave in, sighing as he repeated all of the orders the group of friends had given him to deliver back to the hall. Mushi took them all down, promised him it would only be a minute and disappeared into the kitchen. Hoagie watched her go, looking thoroughly suspicious. He really did feel like Mushi was his little sister, that he had to look out for her and protect her. It made him sad to think that she may be in danger, facing things normal sixteen year olds shouldn't have to deal with.

He felt a tap on his shoulder and he turned lazily, only to do a double take and almost fall of his chair when he stared into a familiar pair of piercing, deep dark brown eyes.

"We have to talk." Bonny snarled at him, and without waiting for an answer she marched over to the far side of the diner, sliding into a booth and waiting for her ex boyfriend without another word. Hoagie wordlessly followed, too taken aback by her sudden appearance to muster up a response. He slid in opposite her, a guarded expression on his face at the sight of her. If it was one thing he gathered about Bonny in the short time they were together- it was that she was a manipulator.

"I'm going to be blunt with you…" She said carefully, trying to keep her voice steady. She was trying to ignore the fact her heart was pelting angrily against her chest. In truth Bonny was a nervous wreck. Since she was a little girl she was positive she'd be a great mother, but she also thought whoever was the father of that baby would want to be with her forever and ever, probably riding on a noble steed into a sunset… but I guess that was fantasy, and this was her cruel reality that she had to deal with. Because even when Bonny was trying her hardest to be sincere, she could still see the hate and distrust locked within her ex boyfriend's eyes. She sighed, blurting it out before she got the chance to chicken out.

"I'm pregnant."

There was a very thick silence. Hoagie felt numb.

"Uh…" A quick burst of panic seemed to rise up his throat, and he felt lightheaded- almost like he needed to puke. "What?" Was all he could manage.

"I'm pregnant." Bonny confirmed, her face steady and her eyes sincere. There was no trace of a joke in her face, all Hoagie was hit with was blunt truth, and the poor guy just stared at her, Bonny readily staring back. "I need your help."

"I can't…" Hoagie's heart was racing, and he could scarcely breathe. A kid? a baby? HIM? BONNY? He wasn't ready, he didn't want Bonny in his life, much less a baby! He felt the room start to slip, and Bonny's cold hand clenched around his arm, her dark solid eyes grounding him.

"Don't worry." She mumbled, her eyes wide with concern. "You won't be held responsible, I'm not ready to be a mother…I just need some money to go back home and take care of it."

"Take care…" Hoagie broke off, his throat dry. "I…what do you mean by that?"

"Don't worry." Bonny soothed him. "I'll take care of it. All I need is money to get home. You'll never have to see me again, I'll be out of your life!"

Hoagie's heartbeat gradually returned and he gripped at the table, the room coming back to him as visions of freedom seemed to spark in his eyes. There was hope…this was not the end…

"O…oh…" He suddenly rasped, speechless. "You-you mean-"

"I've got no money." Bonny mumbled, becoming impatient at how long this was taking. She had no idea how this was effecting Hoagie, all she cared about was getting her and Hollie home to safety. "I need a grant, check if you've got it."

"I…" Hoagie frowned, still pale and shaken. "Bonny…we-we should talk about…this…I mean- I'd feel bad just shipping you out-"

"Trust me it's better this way." Bonny said bluntly. "I just want to get out of here. I just want money."

"Oh…" Hoagie looked downcast. "Well…if you think it's the best…"

"It is." Bonny nodded, her eyes wide. "Definitely."

Hoagie sighed. He shouldn't complain…he knew he shouldn't. He'd dodged a real bullet, so to speak. But the thought of being a father, a baby born somewhere with his and Bonny's genes…that was something he couldn't escape. He couldn't just forget about it… but at the same time, he didn't want to be anywhere near Bonny. It wasn't what he wanted.

"Ok…" He sighed, gathering his composure and trying to stop himself from shaking. "Ok." he looked up at her, his eyes solid and daring. Even Bonny tensed. "But I never want to see you again."

Bonny winced at that. She felt horrible.

"…Deal…" She mumbled, but all she felt was empty and hollow as Hoagie complied with her wishes.

Jayden had to handle it to Dread- he sure had a way of charming people. Whatever the sex, whatever the class, Dread was a natural master in the ways of manipulating and flirting- able to get anything he wanted with a few smirks and witty lines. Even when drunk, high, off his face or even covered in vomit Dread could still lull anyone into his arms and snatch anyone into his clutches. Even when Jayden could tell Dread practically gagged at the sight of the chubby, plain looking brunette, he still managed to charm Lizzie into becoming a giggling schoolgirl, following him wherever he went in the hopes she'd get even a look from him.

Lizzie's eyes scanned the room doubtfully as the door slammed behind her, but still she remained calm and in control with that sultry, confident grin on her face- a look that Dread loathed. He slammed the door shut behind him, leaning against it as he flicked the numerous locks closed- the rusty clicks echoing in the large dingy room. Lizzie turned back to look at him- the shadowy figure leaning against the locked door, those deep black eyes gazing at her emptily- a knowing smirk planted on his face. A shiver went through her spine. She couldn't help it…he seemed so eerie, like he belonged in a world so out of her depth…

"So…" She began innocently, hating the way her voice cracked with nerves. Usually she was so in control, she'd done this so many times before with so many other guys who had the hots for her… She bit her lip, eyelashes fluttering once more at the still figure. "Are you going to tell me your name?"

He shoved himself off the door roughly, keys slipping into one of his pockets. He pulled out a cigarette with the other, lighting it with the flicker of his lighter before slipping it into his mouth. Lizzie found herself freezing with fear again, stuck to the floor as he made his way over to her slowly, the flickering ember reflecting in those empty, solid black eyes.

"Believe me…" He said silkily, his tone as rough as sandpaper and velvety smoke escaping his lips as he leered at her, smirking with obvious power. "You don't wanna know…doll."

She flinched, the smoke scratching at her eyes as she tried to retain her dignity, frowning with annoyance.

"Suppose I do…" She grumbled back, a childish pout on her face. Clearly, she wasn't used to being spoken to with such authority. Dread smirked. A challenge…

"Oh really?" he cooed to her, his lips stretching into a wicked grin. "You wanna know my name, Toots?"

She folded her arms angrily, already tired with the slow games he was playing. "Yeah, I do!"

Dread smirked, chuckling lightly and inhaling another lungful of harsh, bitter nicotine. "'Spect you'll be screaming it soon enough…"

Lizzie scoffed, her eyes widening. "Don't get cocky." She dismissed. She was being manipulated, and she hated that feeling…like she was a little kid being bossed around. She was the boss, she was always in control…nobody else. And with the dark handsome stranger, leering over her like that with obvious power and influence, with that stupid freaky grin and those big empty black eyes…she couldn't help but think she had suddenly buried herself in a situation that she couldn't get out of.

He stepped towards her, their noses almost touching as he lowered his face to hers. She could smell the smoke on his lips, feel the intensity of that cocky, amused stare, and as he scoffed at her- she felt the strange coolness of his breath, and it caused goosebumps to bubble on her skin.

"It's Dread." He answered softly. "My name…it's Dread. Dread Mathers."

"Dread?" Lizzie grinned, hoping to catch a flash of laughter in his eyes when he said that- a sign he was joking. There was none, Dread stood still and silent, his eyes wide and expectant- as if daring him to say something. Her smile faded, and her eyebrows curled into a frown again. "Why would you change your name to that?"

"I didn't." He answered simply, and then his still expression broke into a grin again. "My Dad knew where I was headed before I could even open my eyes."

Lizzie's own eyes widened as she noticed the stranger closing the distance between them, and she couldn't help but step back. "W…what?"

"I take after my father…" He murmured to her softly, reaching out and running a rough finger down her cheek. She winced, but couldn't pull away from the seemingly 'loving' gesture. He continued talking, his cold breath chilling her skin. "In every way… his eyes, his face, his voice…" He turned back to her, those dark eyes drilling into hers. "His desires…his beliefs…he was rotten to the core…" he grinned again, looking manic. "And so am I."

Lizzie swallowed, a lump rising in her throat as she stepped back again, but was only met with a cold, brick wall.

"The only difference is…" He simpered sweetly, pushing his body to lock hers against the solid wall. "He didn't get what he wanted…and I always...always get what I want."

She shifted, feeling uncomfortable at the close proximity- especially with that flickering cigarette so close to her skin, but both hands shot out either side of her shoulders-trapping her and locking his harsh gaze with hers. She whimpered, but quickly jumped and whirled around at the sound of another door opening, and the other stranger- the guy with dyed hair and grey eyes- walked out of a door, clutching at a video camera and looking indifferent.

"Um…" Lizzie's eyes widened with horror. "Oh thank god…uh, a little help? Please!"

Jayden grinned at the scene, sending Dread a sly glance as he sidled over to the couple, and Lizzie's hopes quickly faded as Dread returned the smirk.

"What's going on?" She demanded of the pair, her eyes wide.

"I told you, pet." Dread snarled at her, suddenly grabbing her arm. "I always get what I want."

Before she could open her mouth the boys grabbed the now squirming Lizzie, dragging her into the room behind them. She gasped as she met with a springy, soft surface and she looked up at the pair, realising she was on a bed. Dread locked the door behind them as the other watched her with amusement, a cackle escaping his lips as anger seared through Lizzie's body. Her mouth opened with a fury of accusations ready on her tongue-

"Don't bother." Jayden talked over her with ease. "This room is sealed shut." He looked over to his friend, grinning with malice. "Wouldn't you say Dread?"

"Looks Soundproof to me." Dread smirked, rapping against the black walls with his knuckles. Lizzie's eyes flicked around, and she realised their hint was right- no windows, just black, thick walls surrounding her. Only a bed, bedside table with a flickering lamp and a laptop- sitting open beside the door on the bedside table- were the only pieces of furniture in the room. She was virtually suffocated. Dread's eyes still flashed maliciously. "But still, can't hurt to test the theory…"

Jayden cackled, pulling something out of his pocket. Lizzie's heart jumped into her throat as she let out a squeak- suddenly staring down the barrel of a small pistol that was locked in Jayden's tight grip.

"Your Facebook, bitch." He growled, still smirking. Lizzie blinked, looking up with amazement.

"Wh…what?" She stuttered.

"Your FACEBOOK!" Jayden snarled angrily, his eyes narrowing. "Don't make me ask again."

Lizzie gulped, her breath coming in quick, hurried pants as she struggled to find her voice. Her brain scrambled for an answer.

"Er…Um…L-Lizzie…Lizzie Devine…" She stammered, gulping with fear. "I-I'm on my college group a-and fr-friends with-"

"Email and password!" Jayden growled. Lizzie's eyes flickered over to the laptop resting by the door, and Dread quickly tapping at the keys. She turned back to Jayden, whose grey eyes watched her threateningly. She mumbled it, blushing as she did so.

"H-hot girl Liz at hotmail…." She choked out. "A-and the password i-is I love Nigel13…"

"Cute." Jayden spat, his head tilting curiously as she watched Dread type it in, smirking as it was confirmed. He turned back to her, tucking the gun back into his jeans as Dread straightened to stand beside him, the two gazing at their hostage with amusement. Jayden tapped at the keys, his eyes narrowed with determination as he looked over at Dread, nodding. "Passwords changed."

"Good." Dread grinned, and with that he pulled a switchblade from his pocket, the blade flicking out and glinting maliciously in the limited light. Lizzie eyed it nervously, her heart pounding in her ears.

"I..I don't have anything to gi-give you…" She began to plead, desperate tears cascading down her cheeks.

Lizzie froze with fear as she realised she was looking up into the flash of the camera on her phone, Jayden recording her beneath him with those dark, cruel grey eyes flashing mischievously at her.

"This records pretty well…" He smirked, grinning at his best friend slyly as the two exchanged looks.

"And uploads straight to the internet too…" Dread added silkily. "Straight to Facebook as well…to all your friends."

"And your Mum." Jayden snickered, raising his eyebrows. "You got your Mum on here too, right? Karen Devine? Is that it? It's alright, ya know, I bet she'd love to see you in this light!"

Lizzie whimpered under the harsh light, and she could see the two boys laughing with glee at the thought of it. She knew exactly what they were threatening her with, and her chest clenched uncomfortably as her heart pounded in her chest, the anxiety overwhelming her. She was already well aware Jayden's thighs were straddling her more tightly, and Dread's fingers around her shoulders were gripping her shirt so tightly she knew the material would rip at any second, and she knew every second- every little emotion- every explicit detail- would be caught on her own camera.

"What do you want?" She pleaded with them, her voice high with fright. "P-please…" She begged. "I'll tell you a-anything…"

"You know what we wanna hear!" Dread growled, a hand clasping at her throat tightly. Lizzie yelped, beginning to cry. "The guy you sold the stuff too! What's his name?"

"I told you I don't know!" Lizzie sobbed. In one quick movement Dread grabbed at the collar of her shirt and jerked his arm and Lizzie gasped as she felt the material be ripped clear off her chest, leaving her in just her bra. She sobbed harder, struggling in vain to get her arms free of Jayden's legs, but failing. "I really don't!" She insisted. "He w-wouldn't t-tell me!"

"Quit 'ya fuckin' cryin'!" Dread snarled at her, giving her a fierce backhand across the cheek. Lizzie winced with sudden pain, a singing sting cutting into her skin. She let out a choked sob, feeling Dread's strong grip clasp around her throat. She struggled to breath, wheezing and rasping as she looked up into that pair of dead, depthless black eyes. "What'd he look like?"

"OH-OKAY!" She gave in, trembling as she racked her brain, trying to think. "He-he had b-black hair- and b-blue eyes- k-kinda skinny an-and on something- on heroin, he had all the-the scars-"

Dread's heart leapt as the familiar image sparked in his mind. He tightened his grip and Lizzie whimpered with pain.

"Name, bitch!" He demanded, snarling into her face. "What was his fuckin' name?"

Lizzie began to sob. "S-some other gu-guy came in- he called him a name! It-it was-" She wracked her brain desperately, thinking back to the humiliating experience. "It-it- was th-thief or something-"

"Bandit?" Dread demanded, a low growl. Lizzie nodded, her eyes widening as she recognised the name. Dread's face lit up, his dark eyes flashing with excitement. Jayden returned the smirk. Some good news.

"I've told you everything!" Lizzie screamed as Dread's fingers continued to constrict her air flow. "P-please stop! I've told you everything! Just let me go!"

"We gotta have some leverage…" Dread cooed to her in a sing-song voice. "After we leave you what's stopping you from telling the cops about us? Nuh uh, sweetie. We're gonna take a view videos, and if we hear you've been blabbing, your face won't be the only thing splashed on Facebook…or any porn site for that matter."

"What!" Lizzie squeaked, shaking under the rough hands.

"Shouldn't have tried fucking around with us, babe." Jayden leered over her, getting to his knees as he gripped her hair roughly. He pulled her head to see the video camera propped up by the bed, the recording light flashing threateningly. "Cause now, you're the one who's about to get fucked."

"And unless you want your family and friends to see the whole show…" Dread grinned, his depthless eyes gazing into hers mercilessly. "You'll just sit back, take it and shut up…least try and have a little fun while we have ours…" He leaned in closer, his teeth bared in an evil smirk. "Babe."

Maurice pushed through the double doors of the station, ready to finally drop off the last bit of paper work onto his desk before he could head off with his new wife to their honeymoon destination. But as he entered his familiar office, he immediately could feel the silence and tension in the air, and he knew something was very wrong.

"Maurice!"

He whirled around at the sound of his name, and an ash-faced Chad came to greet him, clad in casual clothing. A troubled frown graced his boyish face, and Maurice was now positive something was up.

"What are you doing here? We thought you'd left on your honeymoon…"

"Not 'til tomorrow…" Maurice reminded him, frowning as he looked at his partner up and down. "What are you doing? Why are you out of uniform?"

Chad sighed, looking thoroughly depressed as his baby blue eyes gazed guiltily into Maurice's solid ones. "We…were hoping not to drop this on you to wreck your honeymoon…" He mumbled. "But…well, you have a right to know…" He swallowed, looking towards the floor as he struggled to get the words out.

"Brian's dead."

Maurice's heart sank.

"What?"

"Some psychos stabbed him…then torched him and the squad car…" Chad mumbled, severely saddened by the entire ordeal. It was he who had found him in the first place and with everything alight he had no mode of contacting any of the other members of his team or anyone for help, all he could do was watch and flag down the first car that drove past. He also felt severely guilty at the entire ordeal, but he knew if he was in that car too he probably would have been killed as well- many had already said the attack was deliberate and planned.

Maurice mirrored that same look of depression. Brian was his partner, and had been for about six months. They went to the same police academy, were always in the same unit, and he couldn't forget all those nights on night duty with him. The fact he was gone he had trouble grasping, especially when he was gone using such malicious and terrifying methods…

"It's sad you're not going to be here for the funeral…" Chad mumbled, and it cut into Maurice to see Chad look so deflated. Usually he was so cocky and in control, so confident, but the event seemed to have seriously scarred him. "But you go have fun dude, I mean…we need something cheerful in here."

Maurice sighed. He was right, even when Brian was his partner, he wasn't even supposed to be here…

"Yeah, yeah." He muttered, running a few fingers through his hair. Chad growled, kicking at the nearest cubicle wall as he folded his arms.

"We're gonna catch the dicks who did this though…" he scowled. "Mark my words man, when they're caught I'll be at their throats so fast…"

"Excuse me…"

The two looked around to see a pretty, petite brunette staring at them wide-eyed, a piece of ripped paper clutched in her hands. her eyes lit up as she looked up at Maurice, finding just the man she was looking for.

"But I need to speak with you…" She simpered, smiling sweetly. "In private…if you could…"

Maurice frowned. He knew this girl from somewhere. Turning to Chad for support, he noticed Chad's baby blue eyes widen at the sight of her, before he turned around, going back to the group behind him. Maurice sighed, realising he was alone with this one. He turned to go back into the hallway, Bonny following behind him.

"Alright…" he sighed, leaning against the wall as he rubbed at the bridge of his nose, attempting to calm his thoughts. He'd just found out one of his close friends and workmates had been murdered, he had his honeymoon in the morning, he didn't need some stranger wasting his time. "So...what's up?" he looked up, frowning at her once more. "Have we met?"

Bonny sighed. "Yes, we have." She sat on the bench in the hall, twisting her lips as she began. She hated doing this once more, she felt horrible at what she was about to do…but she thought of her friend, of Jayden, and how much they desperately needed that plane ticket…both her and Holly, and the baby inside of her…

"Well, we met on your bachelor night…" She began slowly. "And…er…well…" She sighed again, finding this difficult. "Well, I was-"

"That dancer." Maurice finished, his eyes widening. Of course- she was hard to recognise with so many clothes on. "Uh…yeah, I remember…kind of…"

"Well, I wasn't completely honest with you that night." Bonny blurted out, her throat tightening and her stomach churning at what she was about to do. "I…well, we did…sleep together…and…I'm pregnant."

There was a horrible silence that engulfed the pair, Maurice's heart completely dropping in alarm at the weight of the words. His marriage, his love for Cree, his job, his friends, family, the death of his friend…everything was overturned with those few words.

"But I won't hold you responsible!" Bonny finished, her eyes widening as she saw his mocha skin pale to a sickly grey. "I…I just need money, to leave the country. Her eyes narrowed with determination. "I'll be out of here and never speak to you ever again. I'll take care of it, and I'll forget you." to rub this in, she tore up the address and phone number she had used to find him, the pieces falling to the floor. "Check, if you could."

Maurice looked up at her in bewilderment, unable to take it in. Only a minute ago he found out his partner at work had met a mysterious, horrible death…and now this girl was saying she was carrying his baby? She was bribing him? Maurice buried his fingers deep into his dreads, closing his eyes and shaking his head- hoping soon he'd wake up.

"Maurice!" Bonny snapped, and Maurice's eyes snapped upwards to see she had lowered to his level, and her expression had softened somewhat, but still carried that same ferocity.

"I know this is hard…" She tried to reason. "And believe me, it's hard too. But listen- you will never see me again. It was a mistake to come here- I'm going back home, where you'll never have to contact me. Ever. It's better this way. I'm thousands and thousands of miles away, you'll never have to think of me again. Continue your life. For me. I don't want to wreck it, that's why I need this money…a fresh start for me, to start over."

"Fine!" Maurice blurted out, unable to take it anymore. Anything to make her shut up and go away. anything to make him forget this ever happened. "I'll…" He sagged, defeated as he went to trudge back to his desk. "I'll get my checkbook, okay?"

Bonny twisted her lips. Of course, this was what she wanted…it was all going to plan, but she still felt horrible. Like a common whore, being bought off for her silence.

"That's fine." She agreed, nodding. "I'll wait here."

Maurice trudged off back into the office and Bonny hugged at her arms, sighing as once again she was left with silence.

It's for the best. She kept telling herself. It's for the best…

To be continued…