A/N: Well time for the weekly 'scheduled' update! Hopefully the last chapter was good, I had to cut some of it and put it in this chapter due to how long it was getting... They're usually around 2,500 words, but 4,000 and something was around 2 chapters worth!
I might just start calling them 'Extra Long chapter cause I cram so much and this stories going to be long andddd- I'm waffling. Great.
Just ignore me, the school work's driving me nuts! Hopefully it gets better next week...
Till next time,
D.L.D
Courtney's P.O.V
I'm actually really surprised.
Heather's idea of a 'blind' double-date, or should I say revenge, actually backfired. I remember sitting at the table and thinking it was the worst mistake of my life, when I actually didn't regret it. In fact, it was kinda fun. I know what you're thinking.
'Courtney! How could spending a day with the Queen of bitchiness and those two Latinos be any fun?!'
Well, it was fun because it was perfect. Way better than the previous dates I've been on...well, all of them except that one Duncan did. I gotta admit, even if he is an asshole, he sure does know how to surprise a girl. I'm happy for him, and Gwen. But if he hurts Gwen, I'll personally snap him in fucking half! And I'm not joking. After kinda making up with Gwen, I feel like we can be besties again. Even if she doesn't forgive me, I'll totally be there for her. No matter what.
Speaking of that, I almost forgot about why I'm so happy!
Grabbing my phone from my bedside table, I add a new contact to my already long list. I really need to sort out those numbers...I just never have the time these days.
After adding the number, I immediately message them.
To - Can I trust you?
Me: Hey, I was just wondering if you'd wanna go out again sometime this week. It may help you with the bet.
I then sighed as I placed my phone back on charge and went to get my pajamas. A nice warm shower should help me right about now...
Taylor's P.O.V
"Twenty down, thirty more to go!" I say as I jab and punch at the punching bag.
"That's the spirit!" Jo smiled proudly as she watched me.
"Who would've thought a hopeless spoiled girl like you would ever get this good?" Stephanie beamed as she ran on a treadmill, "If your parents could see you now, they'd be proud."
"Oh, I know!" I say as I give the bag another hit, "I'm just not sure about my dad..."
"Figures," Eva sniffed as she lifted weights, "From what I've been told, he sounds like a major asshole."
"Asshole puts it lightly," Jo chuckled, "Your dad sounds like a grade A dick."
"Are you sure you guys wanna talk trash about her dad?" Stephanie asked a she turned to me, "Taylor's still his daughter."
"I stopped being his daughter ages ago," I say as I give the bag a final punch, "I woke up to from his sick fantasy back in high school. Now, who's up for a boxing match?"
"Now we're talking!" Jo cracked her knuckles, grinning, as she got her boxing gloves, "Wawanakwa style?"
"Wawanakwa style," I nodded as I got my own gear and gloves.
Wawankwa style is a term us girls use to refer to our style of boxing. It still follows the basic rules of the sport, but there's a few twists often added in by the watchers. Of course we can't play Wawankwa style in competitions or tournaments, but its fun to play our special sport as friends. Yes, I said it: friends. I finally have some female friends, and they're not complete pricks like Heather and Courtney! Not that Courtney's a huge prick, but still she was one in high school.
Jo and I climbed into the ring, both with gloves on and mouth guards in.
"You know the rules," Eva grunted, "Any below the waist and it's an instant win."
"Got it," Both of us looked at the other determinedly.
"Ok girls," Stephanie was on the opposite side of the ring to Eva, "In 3...2...1!"
The sound of a bell was heard and we immediately went into play. Jo struck first, aiming for the side of my face. I blocked it with both hands before going for a jab in her side. It struck and she moved to the side as she tried to look for an opening. She then went for my gut, but I dodged to the side before striking her face. Blood immediately escaped from her lip, but Jo didn't flinch. She just wiped it away as we continued to circle each other. At this rate I might win!
I went in for another hit, but this time Jo was ready. She blocked it and hit me right in the gut, knocking all the wind out of me.
"You've improved," She sniffed appreciatively, "But so have I."
"Game on," I smirked as we circled each other once more."
The match went on for a few more minutes, both of us striking and punching and the occasional twist being added in. We both looked a mess. Jo had a busted lip and massive coco, I, on the other hand, had a bloody nose and black eye. Signs that we'd both been hard at work and had tried our best. Then just as I thought I could win, disaster struck. Jo managed to club me around the head and the next thing I knew I was on the floor and unable to get up.
"Jo wins," Eva's voice sounded loud and booming.
Both of us spat out our mouth guards and took off our gloves, as Stephanie and Eva walked into the ring.
"Here you go," Stephanie passed us our water bottles, while Eva waited to talk to me privately. Once I was hydrated and able to catch my breath, Eva then leaned down and whispered something into my ear.
"Always remember that the enemy is working just as hard as you," Her tone sounded sincere, "Make sure you keep an eye on them. If you can do that, you'll win."
I nodded as she stood back up and went off to put on her gloves. She was right, I wasn't the only one working hard; everyone was. If I wanted to be the best, I have to keep an eye on the enemy. But most importantly, I had to prove to the world that Taylor Gripling can achieve something for herself once and for all. Even if no-one can believe I can.
Gwen's P.O.V
"It's a beautiful fricken day!~" I sang as the music came to a close.
Once it stopped everyone on stage relaxed. 'Finally,' I think, only for Blaineley to frown.
"That number's really missing something," Blaineley spoke as she looked at all the students on stage.
"She was fine," Duncan rolled his eyes.
We'd been doing this for at least half and hour now and we'd made no progress. It didn't exactly help that half of us didn't even wanna be here.
"For once I agree with the neanderthal," Courtney scrunched her nose as she spoke, "I can't believe I actually said that."
"Too late~" Heather teased, "Looks like someone's falling into old habits."
"Says the one who went out on a date with Alejandro," Courtney glared at her.
"It was all part of the plan," Heather shrugged.
"What? The plan to fuck him?" I high-fived Courtney as Heather clenched her fists.
"Listen here goth girl, if you wanna act like you're all big and tough then-"
"Can all of you shut the hell up!" Blaineley flushed red as her inner diva took over.
The rest of us all blinked, as she took in a deep breath before smiling, "Sorry I meant to say please settle down. Now, Gwen I need you to show more enthusiasm and energy."
"That's gonna be tough since she doesn't wanna be here," Izzy spoke out, "None of us really do! We're just here for a chance to make money on the stage!"
"Well, if you don't perform right that money'll go back in refunds," Blaineley smiled, masking her threat, "And do any of you want that?"
We all shook our heads in silence.
"Great!" Blaineley smiled, "Now let's try to at least get through this scene. And try to show enthusiasm and energy Gwen, you too Noah!"
"Fine," We both groaned. Duncan's so lucky: he doesn't have to come onto stage for the first scene.
"Ok, now let's start," Blaineley's smile dropped, "Again."
Sierra's P.O.V
I smiled as I plonked down in my desk chair. I'd bought myself some takeout from the local fast food chain and I have to say it's perfect fuel for what I have planned for today. I take a bite from my cheeseburger as log into my computer. I haven't had much time to check in this week and I have to say that a lot has happened. I looked at my inbox and noticed that I had twenty new messages.
I decided to check the first few and noticed they were just check-ins from my mom asking how I was. I instantly replied telling her that I was ok and that I'd visit as soon as my workload cleared up. After that I cleared out the emails I received from my subscriptions to weavers' club, bloggers' union and Chris Mclean fan club. Once I cleared that up, I was left with two emails. One from Izzy and the other from- Cody!
I couldn't help but grin as I saw that Codykin- I mean Cody had actually sent me an email! Sure, we've worked together for a couple of years in newspaper business, but we spoke at school maybe sent a few texts. It wasn't anything like emails!
I squealed as I hugged myself in glee. All my dreams are finally coming true! It won't be long before Cody proposes! Wait...don't get ahead of yourself Sierra. You've still gotta wait for him to come back from the world tour. Speaking of which, I'd better book a ticket. Maybe I can get backstage access too!
Ignoring the emails for a second, I book myself a ticket to the Drama Brother's next venue. It was only a two hours drive away, so I could definitely make it. Plus I don't mind missing one class to see Cody perform live!
After booking the tickets, I go back to my inbox and read my two remaining emails. Of course it read Cody's first.
*New email* - 18:30 (6:30 pm)
From: Codykins!
Codykins! - Hey Sierra, I just wanted to check in on how the newspaper's going. The tour's going ok, but I'm really starting to miss Pahkitew.
I furrowed my brow as I read his message. Why would Cody miss this place? Sure, it's great for finding excellent gossip, but that's all. But what really bugged me was that Cody was sad and when he is I am. Still, I'll send a reply to try and make his day better.
To- Codykins!
Me - Hey, Cody. Thanks for checking in. The newspaper's going fine, in fact I have so many article ideas that the second edition may come out soon! Anyway, just stay strong for the tour. I'm sure that soon you'll be back soon. I'll count down the days with you!
After sending Cody the reply, I opened Izzy's email. She's probably got a new idea for the gossip column on the school blog and newspaper. Speaking of which I need to finish that final article and it'll be ready for publishing! But I should check with Izzy about the gossip column since she's working on it as we speak.
*New email* - 18:45 (6:45 pm)
From: Crazy redhead bestie (Izzy)
Crazy redhead bestie - I've got a huge new idea for the blog/newspaper! I call it the 'secret crush column'. We get anonymous entries from students describing someone they fancy and in a certain place or time. Plus we can score gossip at the same time since you know every student on campus' description. How does that sound?
I nod as I eat a couple french fries. Izzy actually did have a good idea for the newspaper and blog. Plus it'd work in my favour since Cody won't find out! I waste no time in replying.
To- Crazy redhead bestie
Me- Count me in! My gossip source is running dry anyway; I have a feeling that we'll need to keep on our toes to stay in the gossip game.
After doing that, I go onto the document I was writing the final article for the newspaper's first edition. I spend the rest of the evening typing away as I ate my food.
Alejandro's P.O.V
"You, my friend, are the scum of the earth," I glared at Jose and he glared back.
"Says the guy who backstabbed majority of the females in his high school," Jose shot back, "At least I have the dignity to be honest."
"You're the most dishonest person I've met!" I spat, "You know very well! Remember dia de los muertos?"
"That was one time," Jose rolled his eyes.
"I got the blame for that!" I throw my hands in the air, enraged, "Do you know abuelo got out the chancla?"
"Can you two shut it for once!" Courtney's voice broke the tension between us.
We both looked at the rest of the class and they all wore the same tired and annoyed expression. I guess Jose and I got too far into the argument. Again.
"We're getting so tired of you two's bullshit," Noah sighed, "You two clearly carry some baggage."
"Yeah, get a room if you two wanna go at each other all night!" Izzy agreed, only to be met by weird looks, "Not like that! Pervs."
We all just sighed, only for the silence to be broken by the PA system.
"Jose and Alejandro come to Chris' office," Chef's voice sounded, "Immediately."
Both of us gulped as we heard Chef's tone. Hopefully it wasn't anything too bad...
.0.0.0.
Jose and I stood side by side in Chris' office. Chef loomed before us, his gait and height intimidating to us, even though we are both fully grown men. Chef always had that ability. To scare anyone with just one look. But this look was unreadable. We didn't know what he wanted.
"Sit down fruitcakes," He grunted as he rummaged through a draw on Chris' desk.
Obeying, we silently sat down in the seats provided. Chef mumbled under his breath as he finally got a tablet from the draw and answered the call. He then held it in front of him and we spotted Chris' face appear.
"Al, Jose," Chris grinned as he looked at us, "I have some terrible news."
"Terrible?" I raise a brow, "What do you mean by terrible?"
"Well, I'm losing my number one drama causers," Chris began, "My number one catalyst for Al's envy and my best source of entertainment after watching people eat Gwen's cookies and Heather and Leshawna's catfights."
"Still doesn't give us an idea, Mclean," Jose sighed.
"Fine, I'll spell it out in dumb Latino form," Chris rolled his eyes, "You two are going back to your dear family in Spain."
"What?!" Both of us cried out in disbelief.
"I'm afraid it's true," Chris chuckled, "Apparently it's a family emergency, so I have granted you leave for a while. You better start packing~"
"Chris-"
Before I could continue he ended the call, leaving us with a chuckling Chef.
"I know I shouldn't be laughing, but for once you two are getting along," Chef cleared his throat, "Ironic how a family issue brought you guys to stand each other."
Without another word, Chef left the office.
"What now?" Jose asked.
But I couldn't answer, for in my mind I was thinking the exact same thing.
DJ's P.O.V
"Ok, is the camera ready, Cam?" I asked Cameron.
He was helping us to record the cooking vlogs everyone suggested Owen and I should do. We were in my dorm kitchen, ingredients laid out for the dessert I was planning to make. Owen was busy snacking on some Chocodiles, while I prepped the final things needed for the first vlog.
"Yep," Cameron nodded, "Everything's fine."
"Great," I smiled, "Just tell me when we can start and I'll start."
Cameron nodded, before looking over to Owen, "You ready to film?"
"Ready?" Owen spoke through a mouth full of chocolate, "I was born ready."
"Great! Let's start!" Cameron then began to record.
"Hey guys," I smile warmly, "I'm DJ and today I'm going to make chocolate cake for my buddy Owen."
"Hey!" Owen smiled as the camera turned to him, "Oooh could you add frosting and sprinkles too?"
"Yep," I chuckled, "But first we have to make the batter."
"Oh, yeah I forgot about that," Owen chuckled sheepishly.
We then spent the next two hours making the cake. Of course the vlog wouldn't be that long, Cameron would edit it down for us. By the time the cake was finished and decorated, we filmed Owen tasting it, and somehow managed to save some for later.
"That was the best thing ever!" Owen whooped as Cam stopped filming, "That cake, learning to make one! You're a God DJ! A food God."
"I'm just doing what Mama taught me," I smiled bashfully, "Plus sharing good food is a good action."
"True," Cameron nodded as he packed up, "Is there any left."
"I made a spare just in case, but Owen seems to have left some," I say as I wrap him a slice.
"What? I have to savor this godly cake!" Owen retorted, his eyes glistening slightly as he looked at the cake, "But one more slice wouldn't hurt, right?"
"Go ahead," I chuckled as he took one of the biggest slices left.
"I could get used to this," He sighed.
"Me too, Owen," I agreed, "Me too."
Taylor's P.O.V
"Last practice before the competition girls!" Eva smiled, "How're you all feeling?"
"Pumped!" Jo called as she ran on the treadmill. Just to be extra, like she always was, Jo had set the speed to the fastest it would go. She was jogging quite fine, but she couldn't hide the red creeping up her neck to her nose and cheeks.
"I'm looking forward to it," Stephanie always had a sensible answer, but don't like that deceive you. She's a monster in the ring, in fact in anything where she has to win.
"Well, I'm just hoping I'm good enough to qualify to the next round," I shrug as I skip using a skipping rope.
"And you will be," Eva smiled.
"Just not as good as us," Stephanie and Jo both spoke in unison.
"We get it you two are arrogant," I teased, "But still, you all said I've improved."
"And you have," Stephanie smiled.
"But we'll see how far that gets you in the ring," Jo smirked, "Isn't your first match against Lucy Thunderberker?"
"Yep," I say as I think about her.
Lucy Thunderberker is the number one female boxer in her college. She has light blonde hair and stormy blue eyes with freckles scattered across her nose. So far, no-one in her district's been able to beat her. She's known as a legend in the female sports community.
"You're in for a major loss if you don't focus," Eva warned.
"Well, Lucy can kiss your ass for all I care!" Stephanie grinned, "So what if she's stronger, fitter and has practiced longer...never mind, you're in for an ass-whooping."
"Thanks for the support, Steph," I roll my eyes as I head towards the punching bags.
"I wasn't trying to make you feel bad," Stephanie sighed, "It just came out wrong."
"Just shut the fuck up, Steph," Jo growled, "You're the worst person to be talking right now. Remember your first soccer league?"
"Ok, I get it," She sighed, "I'll shut up."
"Thank you," Eva smiled, "Ok, Taylor, it may seem impossible to beat Lucy-"
"More like insane," I mumbled.
"Yes, I get it," Eva chuckled, "But everyone has their Achilles' heel. If you figure that out, you have a better chance of winning."
The others nodded in agreement as the sound of gym equipment filled the room.
Even if what she said did sound crazy, Eva did have a point. Everyone had a weakness and if I can find Lucy's weakness I could win...But what was it.
"Good thing I know dirt on every female boxer around here," Jo smirked as she produced a piece of paper, "And it says Lucy moves a little slower than others. Good thing, Tay's the fastest boxer around."
I smiled as Jo told me the weaknesses I needed to know. Even if I didn't know if it was true, it reassured me that I had a chance. That's all I needed.
"Thanks guys," I smiled warmly at them all, "Should we practice one final time?"
"Yeah!"
Katie's P.O.V
I sighed as I watched the sun set from my bedroom window. It was early evening and I was sewing yet another creation I'd dreamed up. Even though it reminded me of Sadie, I enjoyed making new designs. It's the piece of me that will never change, no matter what happens. It also helps me to keep my cool when Cady's upset.
The still rhythm of my sewing machine, sewing away, was broken by the sound of my phone. I heard the familiar ping I get from when someone messages me and immediately turned off the sewing machine. I then grabbed my phone and checked it to see who the message was from. My eyes widened at the name. Ralph Lauren! You've gotta be shitting me right now! There's no way that they actually wanted to showcase my designs. Sure, they said to call them when I had new designs after the Halloween fashion show, but...I had to have someone pinch me.
"Kitty!" My dorm mate immediately rushed into my room.
"What's up? I heard you call," She looked at me quizzically.
"Look!" I squealed as I showed her my phone screen.
"Oh. My. Freaking. God!" She grinned widely, "Katy, you did it! You can get out of this dump and work for one of the big brands! You'll be able to design for them and maybe even model. Let's not even start about the publicity. You may be able to start your own brand and then-"
"Kitty?" I poke her.
"Yeah?" She beamed, "Sorry. I'm just so happy for you! It's not everyday one of your friends gets to have their designs showcased by one of the big brands."
"I know, I know," I smiled warmly, "But I'm gonna need some help if I can get the amount done for the deadline."
"Good thing I know exactly who to call!" Kitty winked as she began to call some numbers.
Noah's P.O.V
"Where is my cappuccino?" Chris' voice rang in my ears.
I was meant to have a few months off since Chris took Topher on the world tour. But it looks like once again Chris was getting my hopes up for nothing. Plus he doesn't even pay that much! Sometimes I wonder why I haven't quit yet...
"Chris, it's my month off," I roll my eyes.
"Too bad, I can say when your time off ends or begins," He spoke in his annoyingly taunting voice.
"And who says you can?" I raised a brow, "I'm not a slave Chris, I'm an intern."
"Slave, intern. Same difference," I could see him grinning as he shrugged.
This infuriated me. There's no way this lazy cock sucker was getting another piece of labor out of me. Not in a million years. I'm finally quitting this stupid job, with its idiotic pay. I can find another way to make money, I'm done being Chris' loyal lapdog.
"You know what," I say, my tone serious and dark, "You can kiss my ass for all I care Chris. I'm done. You can find someone else to put up with your bullshit because I'm done looking after a big dumb baby. I'm sure Topher wouldn't mind replacing me anyway. Goodbye."
With that I ended the call and let out a deep sigh. Finally. Goodbye Chris and your stupid demands.
Dawn's P.O.V
I sighed as I walked through the nature preserve my parents owned. I've been coming here for the past few months and I have to say that it's partially helped with my issue. But it still lingers, and if it lingers it can get bigger. I continued down the path in silence, smiling at the occasional animal before spotting a familiar blonde. Amy.
She was asleep, laying on the green blanket of grass below her. Dried tears streaked her cheeks and I could tell from the waviness of her hair that her braids had come undone. She didn't stir as I moved closer, in fact she stayed asleep. I could tell from her aura that she was troubled and distressed. I have a feeling I know what made her feel that way, but I can deal with that later. Right now, I have to make sure she doesn't stay outside.
"Bruno!" I called to the Siberian bear that Bridgette had helped to rehabilitate here. He was actually a really friendly creature and loved to interact with humans. Trouble is people are scared of him, but Bridgette tries to visit him often. Well, as often as she can. She has got two babies to care for after all and both her and Geoff look exhausted. However Bruno understood as he'd recently had some cubs with a bear that was born here.
"There you are," I smiled as I spotted his dark fur, "Could you help me."
He growled in a friendly response and lifted Amy using his forelegs (I taught him a few humanesque actions) and walked with me towards my parents' home.
We walked through the trees, taking the long way round so as not to disturb Amy. We conversed a little and I asked him how the cubs were doing, but apart from that we walked in silence. Amy didn't wake the whole time we traveled, she just stayed in her unconscious state, often mumbling something or shifting slightly. She must really want to escape reality. I can definitely relate...
Once we reached my parents' home, I bid Bruno goodbye and piggybacked Amy to my old room. Luckily I went there often, so the room was in a good state and I knew that she'd be comfy there.
After making sure Amy was ok I sat down on my desk chair, getting out a book. It was hard for me to focus on it as I kept thinking about what to do next. Should I ask Amy why she was at my family's nature preserve? Should I just let her be? I really didn't know. It didn't exactly help that my mind was constantly contradicting itself.
"Just make a choice already!" I sighed as the voice returned once again, "If you fuck up, then you've learned a valuable lesson."
"It's not that simple," I say, the annoyance clear in my voice.
"You just overcomplicate things," The voice chuckled as she tried to manipulate me. Once again.
"Nice try," I smile dryly, "But it won't work."
"Oh it will-"
"What won't work?" Amy looked at me, her blue eyes wide and alert.
"Great," Both the voice and me sighed as we tried to come up with an excuse. I wonder how I'll get out of this minor issue.
