A/N: Well...I bet you're wondering why I'm updating so early? Well, due to the corona virus pandemic my school closed for a while. Yep... But that didn't stop them from setting us work. -_- OF COURSE NOT! *Sighs*
Anyway, I thought I might as well spend some of the little free time I have to write up a few chapters. Just to pass the time. But don't expect too many updates because my school seems to be bombarding me with work. I already have a headache and it's only been two days!
But apart from that, I hope you guys enjoy this latest chapter! (Which I have to say is wayyyyy longer than usual. So sorry about that guys but I'm trying to fit in as much plot as possible, without too much filler. (Especially since you guys suggest great ideas for the plot!) But hopefully you don't mind too much)
Till next time,
D.L.D
DJ's P.O.V
I smiled as I set down the tarts I'd made earlier for a study snack. Bridgette, Miles, Laurie, Dawn and I had decided to do a group study session since we had an exam coming up. We'd all met at Dawn's dorm since Ella was at her rehearsal for Blaineley's play. My brows furrowed at the thought of it. Gwen, Izzy and Duncan had somehow been roped into it. I remember all of their reactions from yesterday.
.0.0.0.
"It wasn't that bad, right guys?" I raised a brow.
"It was terrible," Duncan shivered.
"He's right," Izzy nodded vigorously.
I looked at Gwen and she answered in a similar way.
"It was terrible, DJ. I swear, if I have to act like I'm Heather's best friend again I'm gonna puke, " Gwen frowned, "Even if I'm gonna backstab her later in the play."
.0.0.0.
Now that I think about it, that conversation was a little funny as I know they'll want to go eventually. They always end up doing that. Right?
Sighing, I sat down in an empty space, joining the others in our study circle. It was then I noticed I'm the only guy taking my course. Mama always said I was different from other guys, but I never thought I was that different. After all, I was pretty normal except for the fact that I'm a little skittish and love animals. Guess not too many people care about animals the way I do.
As we all took out our textbooks, ready to tackle the first subject we'd gone over, I heard someone speak.
"Could you pass me a tart, DJ?"
"Yeah, sure," I reached over to where I put the tarts only to find an empty tray. I felt a few crumbs and scraps, but nothing else. That's odd. I'm pretty sure I put them right there...
I turned to see if there were any left, only to see a sheepish Owen with crumbs around his mouth. In his hands were several tarts and I could tell from the crumbs that he was the culprit. He offered a slight grin, as the surprised look went from his face.
"Owen," Bridgette sighed, "If you wanted a tart you could've just asked."
"I know," Owen chuckled slightly, "But the aroma was so scrumptious, and when I saw that DJ made them- I- I just panicked and grabbed the whole tray!"
"Looks like you've got a taste tester," Miles smiled, giggling.
"Hey! Maybe they can make vlogs together!" Laurie suggested, "After all, DJ does vegan and non-vegan dishes that are super easy to follow."
"Plus they're delicious!" Owen spoke as he scoffed the tarts.
"It is a good suggestion," I say in deep thought.
"I say you should go for it, DJ," Dawn smiled.
"Plus you can make some money on the side to pay for Chris' ridiculous college fees, " Bridgette added as she rolled her eyes, "I'm still trying to figure out that small detail."
"True," I nodded, "I guess I will start a cooking vlog. You in Owen?"
"All you have to say is free food and I'm totally in," He shook my hand with his crumb covered one, sealing the deal.
Tyler's P.O.V
*Beep* *Beep* *Beep*
I groaned as I slid out of my bed. Luckily my class today was at ten, so I got to sleep in past Chris' wake up call. But then again it didn't make that much of a difference as I still woke up at the same wretched time. Why did Chris even have to create that stupid thing! It's a real nuisance. Especially when I need a certain amount of down time.
After getting ready for the day I headed to class, jogging along the pathway. It didn't take too long, in fact it was quicker than most days. That's a good sign. It shows I'm improving and will hopefully get to move up to Chef's class of elite students. I still can't believe Chris split me Lightning and Taylor up. Maybe he just does stuff to spite me. Who am I kidding? He does that to everyone.
I sighed as I finally reached the area where Gerry and Pete told us to meet them for class. To be honest they weren't half-bad as teachers, the only issue is that they're extremely competitive. It doesn't really help when you're someone clumsy like me. I tend to get blamed for my team's losses and it just makes it all the more easier.
"Hello class," Gerry smiled at us all, "You're all on time for once."
"Wait, Gerry," Pete scanned us all, "One person's missing."
"I'm here!" Scott panted as he finally reached the class.
"Just as I thought," Pete chuckled, "A late pupil. You know what this means, Gerry."
Gerry laughed along with him as the whole class knew what would happen next. If you come last there's usually a forfeit. The same is for if your team loses when we do practice games. The forfeits aren't terrible though, they're usually embarrassing. Like doing five star jumps, or press-ups, even jumping jacks. But like I said, the two retired tennis players are actually good teachers just really light spirited and competitive.
"Five jumping jacks, Scott," Both men spoke.
"You can never be late to a game," Pete spoke, "Otherwise it results in your team losing."
"He's right," Gerry chuckled, "The only time you can be late is once you've retired."
Both men laughed again before deciding to get on with the lesson.
"Today we'll be doing tennis!" Pete announced.
An audible moan went around the class as they continued to explain, ignoring us.
"We'll split you into teams of two," Gerry continued, "And we'll be doing a mini competition afterwards."
"Luckily for you," Pete grinned, "You have the best coaches to teach you."
Both men shared another laugh before getting a bag and passing it to Justin.
"Hand out these rackets and we'll begin."
Gwen's P.O.V
"I still can't believe Chris didn't that without our permission!" Cody spoke as I wearily brushed my hair.
Both him and Trent had been talking to me through video call all morning about Chris' grand world tour plan. Apparently they were leaving that afternoon and wouldn't be back for the next few months. If I were them, I'd actually be happy to escape this dump, but both of them seem to want to stay more than leave. They seriously don't get how bad it is here...
"Well, it's Chris," I say as I grab some eyeliner, "What did you expect?"
"She's right," Trent sighed, "We all should've known what we were signing ourselves into."
"Exactly," I say as I set down my eyeliner and get mascara, "Always read the contract. At least that what I've learned from High school."
"Definitely," Both guys replied as we all shivered.
If none of us had signed that stupid 'Student contract' then we'd all would've been free to transfer. Unfortunately I was way too young and naive back then, so I had to pay for it. It's a shame it had to be through that hell pit of a high school though.
"But there were some pros from high school," Cody finally broke the silence.
"Like?" I raised a brow.
"Like all the memories we made there," Cody spoke.
"Way too sentimental," I rolled my eyes as I got my lipstick, "The only good thing about that dump was all the friends I made. That's it."
"And you said Cody was sentimental," Trent laughed.
"What?" I defend myself, "I have fun with my friends! They're way better than memories."
"True," He nodded.
"What do you miss about High school Trent?" Cody asked.
"That's a tough one..." He sank into thought.
"You have to think about what you miss!" I snorted, "Do you not remember the shit storm of events that happened there?"
"I wasn't really involved in any drama back then," Trent answered simply, shrugging, "I never cared for it."
"Wise words," Cody nodded.
"Sure..." I say, before I hear the bell go once again and then Chris' voice.
"Can all students report to the green," I could hear the smugness in his tone, "I have a special surprise for you all."
"Of course he does," I roll my eyes as I grab my jacket off the chair by my desk, "I'll see you guys in five."
"Yeah."
"Bye."
And with that they left and I left my room.
Heather's P.O.V
I grinned as I spotted three new messages on my phone. Three people. Three confirmations. I couldn't help but feel excited. Excited to make my comeback. These silly bastards who knocked me down won't know what hit them once I'm done...
Grabbing my phone from the charger, I unlocked it to read the messages. First Courtney. She was vital for my plan to succeed. So I naturally needed to know her response.
*New Message*- 13: 25 (1:25 PM)
From: Bitchy C.I.T (Courtney)
Bitchy C.I.T: Hey just wanted to check if we're still on for Saturday? I really need a break. Jose and Alejandro have been way more obnoxious than usual and are bickering like crazy. Hopefully your 'blind date' thing'll be fun.
I smiled as I read her reply. It was just the response I was expecting, so I knew exactly how to reply.
To- Bitchy C.I.T
Me: Yeah. I'd never cancel. I'll meet you there, kay?
I then went to the next message. This one was from Jose. And once again he had to sound like a condescending asshole, while also trying to woo me. Like I can be wooed. I have the will of a bull, there's no way he can change my mind.
*New Message*- 12: 30 (PM)
From: Condescending Latino 2 (Jose)
Condescending Latino 2: Buenos tardes, chica. I was wondering about your suggestion for Saturday. If you're still on I will gladly come, if not perhaps we can reschedule?
A groan escaped my lips as I rolled my eyes at his message. Are all Burromuertos like this? If so, I'm sooo glad I'm not part of their family. I don't know how much more of it I can handle, Alejandro is just about enough but even without him I'd be fine. Speaking of the sneaky weasel, I'd better check what he responded with. He seems like the most smart one out of the three.
*New Message*- 12: 45 (PM)
From: Condescending Latino 1 (Alejandro)
Condescending Latino: I don't have a good feeling about this, but I accept. Though I assure you I'll be prepared for everything you're planning. But I'm no chicken, so I will show and we'll see who's really a lame culo.
I just scoffed as I replied, hearing the bell go off.
"Can all students report to the green," Chris' voice rang in my ears, "I have a special surprise for you all."
With that the bells stopped and I got up from my desk, grabbing my red jacket in the process. Hopefully Chris has a good reason for dragging me outside...
Harold's P.O.V
I took in a deep breath as I stood outside of my chocolaty goddess' dorm. I knew that she wouldn't be on the green with the others as she barely cared for time or following the crowd.
"Bein' on time is like following a crowd, sugar baby,"
To this day I remember her telling me that when I missed the bus to Steve's Romanticiser camp. The one camp I missed... No wonder why I have no luck in the lady department. But Leshawna did make me feel better about it. Plus I'm pretty sure if I went there I'd end up being hot-shot jerk like Alejandro and Duncan. The both of them are just...gosh! They're just so mean to me for no reason.
I must've been at the doorstep reminiscing for a while, cause when I looked at the door it was open and Leshawna was standing there. Looking as chocolaty and goddess-like as ever. I think my jaw might've dropped.
"What's it this time, Harold?" She raised a brow, "And you can stop gawking, I'm just dressed in some business attire."
I slowly clamped my jaw shot, "Oh...um...sorry, Leshawna?"
"It's fine," She sighed, "I've just been really stressed today. I got a bad grade in class."
"Never thought you were one for grades," I chuckled slightly.
"Me neither," She laughed a little, "But there's a big ol' world out there, and it's ain't wasting time on nobodies. If I wanna be remembered, I gotta hit it big!"
"Well, you keep aiming for that dream," I smiled warmly and she smiled back. Her smile made me warm and fuzzy. It was one of the genuine smiles. The ones that can't help but make you feel good inside. That make you drift into dream land...
"Aren't you supposed to be going today?" Leshawna broke the silence.
"Yeah?...Oh, crap I'm meant to be at the green now!" I hurriedly get up and begin to dash towards the green.
"Ha! You better run like the devil's gon' kill ya!" Leshawna laughed as she watched me run, "Bye, Harold!"
I couldn't even say anything back, all I could focus on was getting to the green. Even if it killed me.
Trent's P.O.V
"Say goodbye to the Drama Bros!" Chris gave his signature smile, "After all, this may be the last time you see them for a while..."
We all gave him a look as he chuckled a little, rubbing his hands together in glee. 'The last time you see them for a while...' What could he mean by that?
"Just get in the tour bus," Chris sighed as he stomped into the vehicle.
"Chris is the boss," Cody went in and so did Harold.
"You coming?" Justin asked as he lingered by the doorway.
I bit my lip as I thought. Maybe going on this world tour might be a bad idea. After all, Chris could be planning anything! He can never be trusted.
Deciding to take my chances I stepped forward, only to bump into someone. They fell to the ground and immediately rushed to help them.
"Sorry," I say holding out my hand for them to take it.
"It's fine," She replied as she grabbed my hand.
I'm sure I recognise her voice from somewhere... It sounds like a distant memory, buried deep in my mind. In fact she looked pretty familiar too, well her blonde hair did.
I helped her up and gave her a smile, which she returned only for us both to gasp.
"Trent!"
"Amy!"
"How comes I haven't seen you around?" She punched my arm, "Have you been hiding from me?"
"Nah," I say casually, "I've just been busy. What about you? You could've easily contacted me."
"I've been busy too," She chuckled, "But I think the fame's gone to the head of yours, because you seemed to have forgotten what I look like."
"I was just deep in thought," I defended myself.
"Is that so?" She raised a brow, "Cause you'd think someone would remember the person they kissed at prom."
"Ha, ha very funny," I deadpanned and she playfully punched me.
"Hey!" Chris honked the bus' horn, "Wrap it up, lovebirds! I have a deadline to meet!"
"He's still as douchey as ever," Amy chuckled, "Always pairing everyone up when he should know there's a thing called FRIENDS! You hear that bastard? F-R-I-E-N-D-S! FRIENDS! If you can't understand that get help ya retard!"
I laughed as Chris flipped her off in reply, and she did the same to him with both hands.
"Anyway, I'll just give you my number," She took out her sketchpad and ripped out a piece of paper, "I keep it handy. Call me any time."
And like that, she was gone. Fading into the crowd as I was left alone to go on the tour bus.
"Thank god!" Chris' voice broke the moment, "Now get your ass into this bus Trent, or we'll leave you behind!"
Shaking my head as I let out a sigh, I board the tour bus. Hopefully, knowing that I'll have someone to talk to after a long day will help get me through the next few months.
Amy's P.O.V
I sighed as I watched the tour bus leave. As I watched it fade into the distance, I thought. Slipping back into the mindset I was in before I bumped into Trent. He always had that affect on me, he was like a breath of fresh air after drowning in the murky rivers of my thoughts. Just proves what a good friend he is. Which he definitely has proven to me. That's probably why I'm happy to see him most days.
But then that got me thinking...Especially because of what Scarlett said earlier.
.0.0.0.
Ellody, Mary and I sat in the visiting room. It was well-furnished with green walls with white accents and aubergine couches with violet cushions. There were a few coffee tables with a few magazines scattered on top, presumably used by previous guests. That was when the warden came in.
The warden was a broad shouldered man, who was quite stocky. He had cool grey eyes and a stoic expression. Dressed in the hospital's uniform, with a name tag that read Earl, he looked like he had supreme power and authority here. Even if it was just a waiting room. He was holding a set of keys and looked at all three of us intently before speaking.
"Are you three Mary Shells, Amy Roundhouse and Ellody Michaels?" He looked at his clipboard as he read the names.
"Yes," Mary spoke for the three of us, "We are."
"Follow me," He simply grunted and we obeyed.
First he unlocked the door leading to the dormitories, making sure we were all in before locking it again. He then lead us down the grey bland hallway, with a window here or there, taking a crazy amount of lefts, rights and straight ons. By the time we reached the room we were meeting Scarlett in, I felt like I'd walked a whole mile.
"Before I let you in," The warden cleared his throat, "Are you three sure you want to go in there? You seem like three smart and capable young ladies, and that person in there is the personification of a monster."
The three of us shivered as he uttered the word: monster. That was the one thing reminding us that maybe it's a terrible mistake to turn to evil for answers. Especially when that evil can easily manipulate her to do her bidding.
The three of us shared a look, before nodding. We had to do this. If not to find answers, then to at least try to help dawn with whatever's going on in her mind.
"We'll be able to handle her," I spoke, trying to sound firm, "We know what she's capable of."
"Well, if you're planning to go the Harleen Quinzel root, then good luck!" The warden chuckled before opening the door, "Just remember she's caused our best therapists to either crack under pressure or commit suicide."
We all gulped at his words, and I could feel sweat beginning to gather at my brow. He just had to remind us of what she's capable of.
"Well it's a good thing we're not looking to give her therapy," Ellody answered, "Just answers."
And like that the torture began.
A/N: Just a small split to help you guys keep place. It probably isn't necessary :p
"Ellody, Marilyn and Amanda," Scarlett smirked as she adjusted her glasses, "Who would've thought my three favourite guinea pigs would actually show up?"
"So we're guinea pigs now?" Mary raised a brow, "What happened to being associates?"
"That died out when I realised you guys are way too innocent," Scarlett waved a hand, "And with innocence comes naivety: my plan had not room for that."
"Such a shame it failed then," Ellody smirked triumphantly, "Evil scientists never prosper. That's lesson 101 of being a genius."
"Ooooh, you wanna quote lessons now?" There was a playful gleam in Scarlett's eyes and I could tell that she was becoming volatile. She was planning something. Scheming. But what was it?
"Like you know anything about actual lessons apart from galvanization and being a complete psycho," Mary glared at Scarlett.
"Oh, I know a lot more than you think, Marilyn," Scarlett smirked as she glared back, "I can easily play whatever game you two are up to..."
A still silence filled the room as all three females glared at each other, while I stood to the side alone. Of course the scientists are the first to lose their cool. I'm meant to be the one with anger issues here! After all I go to fucking therapy for it! Not that I want to go, but I have to...
"Can we just get down to business?" I say, snapping all three out of their trance.
"Very well," Ellody nodded as she adjusted her blouse, "We need answers Scarlett."
"On what?" The redhead smiled, a little too much for my liking, "You know I know multiple things on multiple subjects. If you want an answer: be more specific."
"Quite shitting around," I clench my fists as I feel traces of Val escape into my mind, "You know exactly what we're talking about."
"Very well," Scarlett sighed as she re-tied her hair into its usual bun, "I'll tell you what you need to know about Dawn, as well as Amy."
"Me?" I stared at her wide-eyed.
"Am I referring to the Easter Bunny? No?" Scarlett deadpanned, "Of course I mean you! Why is everyone in this world so fucking brain dead."
"This place has definitely changed you," Mary spoke as we all took in the fact that Scarlett swore.
"A lot of things have changed me," Scarlett shrugged, "But this place is nothing compared to everything else. But we can save that for another time, right now I need to tell you what you want to know..."
.0.0.0.
I blink as I feel the familiar wetness of tears on my cheeks. I was crying again. All because I was reminded of what Scarlett told me. Something I did not want to hear. Something I told her not to share...
Tears ebbed at my eyelids as I dashed away from the crowd. My ears rang and I began to feel dizzy. Spinning and Spinning. The world wouldn't stay still... I ran and ran for what seemed like years. I was like Alice falling through the rabbit hole. Not knowing how long I'd been gone and how much longer was left. Just running, running and running. Crying and crying. Spinning and spinning.
"Why did you do it?" Her voice rang in my ears as I ran and cried, "Why?"
Tears cascaded down my cheeks as my legs began to feel like weights. My arms became stiff and aching and my breath short and painful. But I ran. I ran in whatever direction I could. I then tripped over something. I couldn't tell what it was because my vision was blurred with tears and the world was still spinning. My ankle throbbed from where I fell and I knew I wouldn't be able to get up. Not like this.
Deciding to just cry, I drew my legs to my chest and crawled into a ball. My tears quickly soaked through my clothes, dampening my skin. But why should I care? Who should care? If everyone knew what Scarlett and I knew and she had shared, then who would see me the same again.
So I sat there, curled up in the woods. My braids were undone, masking my face. Not that you'd want to see it anyway. I probably looked a mess. Who am I kidding, I'm always a mess.
Rocking myself back and forth, I cried and cried. My sobs fell silent to the world, as I got quieter and quieter, until I eventually fell asleep. My heart heavy with sadness and mind darkened with regret.
Alejandro's P.O.V
I smiled as I approached the address Heather had told me to meet her at for the 'double sate'. It was one of the newest restaurants in town and one of the best I have to say. I've eaten here a couple of times on an all nighter, and the food was pretty decent. Though it doesn't beat my abuela's churros, chocolate and cinnamon. Oh...those are just heavenly. It's a shame we had to move to the U.S, if we were still in Spain I could have them nearly every day. Now, it's every time my abuela sends them or visits. Talk about terrible.
I walked into the restaurant and my smile dropped immediately. As I had suspected Heather set me up, but it seems she didn't just set me up she set me, Jose and Courtney up. All three of us shared the same look, as she smirked at us smugly. She'd planned this all along... Just as I thought too! Damn you pride for getting in my way!
"Ah, I see you all made it," Heather grinned as she looked at our faces, "Good thing today was a blind date!"
The way she laughed filled me with dread, but also kind of intrigued me. It made me wonder how far she'd go just to be triumphant. Just to be one step ahead. Which she'll never be with me around- just saying. But it did make me wonder.
"Well, we'd better get this over and done with," Courtney sighed as she played with the hem of her skirt.
She was wearing a brow cardigan with a purple-brown top and beige skirt. Her hair was in its usual style, but I could tell that she'd tried her best to look presentable. Such a shame it went to waste...Or Jose will make use of that. But I don't take his sloppy seconds. I prefer to get my own.
"Yes, we should," Heather nodded.
She was wearing a deep red body-con dress and had her hair tied into a bun. She was expecting for this to happen. So, I'm not too shocked that she actually put effort into what she wore today.
"It's unanimous," Jose nodded, "Let's all eat!"
And like that we all went to our table, ready to get this 'date' over and done with.
