A/N: The fortieth chapter! (The story has one more because of that author's note) And I'm not even halfway...Seems like this story is gonna be quite a long one, but I guess it's kinda obvious now. Anyway, another weekend means yet another week. So that's 3. Nearly a month...Oh well. Sorry this chapter's a little late, I took a break yesterday since I was super tired.
Once again, thanks for all the kind reviews guys and I'm trying to include suggestions. I just need to finish one of these plots! Speaking of which, some of these are nearing their end. Dawn's is more or less beginning, same with Gwen's and Heather's, Katie's should be done soon, DJ's is kinda a running thing till he writes the book, etc etc.
Rahuldalani, I'd love to write a fanfiction like that, but right now I'm really busy. If I have the time to I'll try to write one, but right now I'm overloaded with my stuff on fanfiction and in real life stuff. Sorry.
Anyway, I'm gonna stop blathering now, so
Till next time,
D.L.D
Leshawna's P.O.V
"Ok everyone, now let's go around and say what we enjoyed about today's session," I rolled my eyes as the instructor, Crystal, smiled at all of the moms in the room. Bridge sat beside me, holding Aaron, while I had Ava. She'd told me to meet her at this baby group thing since she's at her best during it. Apparently it's one of the few times she feels like she has time to relax. Now that scares me: having no free time after having a kid.
"So, Shawnie," She quietly spoke as the first mom started, "Why'd you want to talk to me so urgently?"
"Where do I begin?" I sighed as I played with Ava's tiny fingers. She grasped onto my hand, giggling slightly.
"Long story?" Bridge raised a brow.
"Not really," I shrugged, "I'm just in denial. It's still so unreal to me..."
"I get it," She nodded as we turned our attention to the third mom, "Being pregnant's a huge difference, especially when you don't expect it."
"Mhm..." I nod before my eyes widened, "How'd you know?!"
I made sure to whisper-yell so I didn't alarm the babies or other moms. If Crystal knew Bridge and I were talking she'd probably have a cow. Wait, I phrased that wrong. Crystal is actually a major cow, she'd actually be having a bitch fit because of it.
"You've been quiet all morning and seem to be really attached to Ava," Bridge chuckled, "You're not one to cuddle babies, plus you would've bitch slapped Crystal by now."
"True," I laughed along with her.
After we went round the circle saying what we enjoyed, all the moms and babies began to pack up. Crystal put away her stupid baby bear that she substituted for a baby as Bridgette and I continued to talk.
"So, what do you need help with?" She asked as she strapped Aaron into the stroller, "Have you told your parents? Who's the father? What happened? How did you find out?"
"Whoa, slow down hun," I chuckled before sighing, "No, I haven't told my family. I kinda got knocked up from a one night stand, I managed to grab his number though. I'm no ditz. And I found out cause Gwen made me take a test."
"Wow..." Her eyes were wide as she took Ava, "That's a lot, Shawnie. Especially with college and all the shit Chris is putting us through."
"I know," I admit, "I just don't want to feel like I've royally fucked up once again. I told myself I'd be careful with what I do and now...look what's happened!"
Bridgette sighed as tears leaked from my eyes. She immediately hugged me, rubbing my back as she consoled me. it felt nice to have a shoulder to lean on. Gwen was a good one, but Bridge knew more about being a mom than she did. Plus she went through this during high school, it made me feel as if I wasn't alone.
"It's ok, Leshawna," She spoke softly, "I'll help you get through this. You're strong and I know you'll be able to be a great mother."
"I know...it's just," I choked out between tears, "I don't know how my family's gonna react. They always said I was good and had everything going my way. But now-"
"They won't be ashamed," Bridgette shook her head, "They'll accept it. Trust me, it'll make things easier. Think of it at least you graduated before getting pregnant."
"I'll try to," I sniffled as her words sank into my head, "Thanks Bridge."
"No problem, Shawnie," She grinned, "It's all part of a mom's job."
Alejandro's P.O.V
"Flight 994 will to Spain will take off in a few minutes," I sighed as I heard someone announce my flight was due to depart.
I've missed college today and have been feeling terrible. Heather's been giving me the cold shoulder for a while and now I was leaving without getting to see her one last time. The very thought of it made my heart throb and I just wanted to give up and die right here and now. Everything seemed hopeless if I had to return to Spain with Heather seeing me as a dick. The last thing I wanted was for her to hate me, and I mean actually hate me. Not like her love-hate.
Jose sat beside me, a grimace on his face. He seemed to be missing someone too. I wonder who she is...
"This is unfair, hermanito," He turned to me, "How could our father call us back to Spain when he knows we have lives here? We were fine living by ourselves when they left a few months ago."
"I know," I sighed, "Es incerible. But what can we do? If it's an emergency we have to return there."
"We can persuade our father to bring us back, Al," Jose sighed, "How are you so dimwitted?"
"And how are you so, obnoxious?" I shot back, "Look, I hate you and you hate me, but we should end this rivalry to get back here."
"For once I agree with you, Al," I grit my teeth as I hear that insipid nickname.
"Good," I force a smile, "So we begin once we know why we were called back?"
"Can all passengers of flight 994 please board?" The lady's voice rang through the intercom again and all the passengers began to get up.
"Si," Jose nodded as the voice stopped and we got up to board the plane.
Gwen's P.O.V
Once again we managed to go through the whole play and everyone seemed glad about this. After all, it meant shorter practices and more time not doing what Blaineley instructs. That's good time spent in my opinion. Plus it's only about a week or two until we start performing. Once that's done, we can go back to our normal routines. No Blaineley, no Heathers and no annoying rehearsals! It's a win-win.
"We're definitely going to bring in a lot of money!" Dakota beamed, "But what would I do with it? I already have a ton from Daddy."
"I'm not sure yet," Duncan shrugged, "Maybe save it?"
"Save it?" Courtney laughed, "You couldn't save ten bucks if you tried!"
"And why would you save it?" Geoff chuckled, "When you could spend it on something better?"
"Someone's actually maturing for once," Everyone laughed.
"Ha, ha very funny," Duncan playfully glared at us.
"We're only teasing," Zoey smiled, "But they're right about spending the money. I might use it to buy some clothes. Maybe a new sewing machine."
"My money's going towards law school," Courtney grinned, "My parents will be so proud when they see I can pay for most of it! Maybe all!"
"Well, I'm gonna use it as a down payment for laser eye surgery!" Beth grinned, "I'm so tired of these..."
"I can see why," I say as I see her glasses. Beth's parents really hadn't done her any favors, they chose a square pair that didn't go with her face-shape. No wonder she got teased throughout high school. I'd probably destroy those glasses if I had them.
"Isn't it better to just get a more stylish pair?" Dakota raised a brow, "It'll, like, totally make you look cuter!"
"Plus it's all natural," Zoey nodded, "Way better than getting surgery. Cheaper too!"
"Really?" Beth looked at the blonde and redhead as they nodded, "Ok, I'll think about it!"
"Great!" Dakota beamed, and the three instantly burst into conversation.
"So what are you gonna spend the money on, Gwen?" Courtney raised a brow, "I mean we've all shared what we're gonna spend it on."
"Well," I began. There were so many things I could do, but there is one thing I've been wanting for a while. I even agreed to work at the local petting zoo from next week to raise the funds for it. I completely forgot we were getting paid from this too. Maybe I'll even have some cash left over...
"You can stop day dreaming," Courtney waved her hand in front of my face, "Tell us what you're gonna do!"
"Fine," I grumbled as I snapped out of my train of thought, "I'm gonna see if it's enough to buy a studio."
"That's a great idea!" Courtney beamed, "You can launch yourself into the art community after, and you won't have to work a crummy side job and-"
"Actually she may have to," Heather interrupted, smirking. Is everyone just eavesdropping freely on these conversations? "Once the money runs dry, does anyone really think Gwen's art would sell? It looks like a little kid's art project or mother's day card."
"And what can you draw Heather?" I glared at her.
"A lot more than you," She grinned.
"If you can draw so well, prove it," Courtney smiled, "Duncan go get paper and some pencils."
"And since when was I your errand boy?" He raised a brow at the brunette.
"Since Heather decided she's so high and mighty," Courtney frowned, "Now get the paper."
Why is everyone on edge today? Is it because rehearsals are quicker? Maybe it's just because this college is driving us all insane. Especially since Blaineley's forcing us to do this. It probably doesn't help that we're in one of the most toxic environments to exist: a hall filled with people who hate at least one person in here! It was only a matter of time before someone lost control. It just had to be Courtney and Duncan first though.
"Just do it, Duncan," I sighed, "Otherwise she'll explode."
"Fine," He grumbled before going to get what Courtney asked for.
"You two really need to chill," Heather smiled, "All this negativity isn't good for wrinkles you know."
"Shut it," I say, having enough of her, "What do you want?"
"What do I want?" She pointed at herself in shock.
"We weren't born yesterday, you know," Courtney glared at her, "We can see right through you're little Regina George being nice to Cady act."
"Fine," She growled, "I want you losers to stop paying attention to me. Stop saying you feel bad because that jerk left and it's made me a mess."
"We would," I say, "If it wasn't obvious. Everyone knows it's affected you."
"It hasn't," Heather insisted through gritted teeth, "I'm fine. I never needed that douche, never will."
"I said that about Duncan, and although I'm happy for him and Gwen," Courtney sighed, "I feel bad for letting my pride get the best of me."
"You sure it was just pride?" I tease.
"Oh, it was one hundred percent pride," She laughed, "Anyway, Heather you need to stop denying it."
"Denying it?!" Heather's voice was raised, "You guys are the ones thinking this in the first place! I'm not denying it!"
"You are," Both Courtney and I say in unison.
"Am not!" Heather stepped closer.
"Are!" We both stepped closer.
"Not!"
"Are!"
"Not!"
"Are!"
"Not!"
The hall filled with silence as Heather slapped me and Courtney across the face. A red handprint immediately showed on my cheek and I glared at the wigged bitch.
"Did you just slap me?" My tone was even, but inside I was ready to punch her lights out.
"Yes," She answered, a smile on her face.
"She just slapped us," Courtney looked at me and I nodded.
"And what?" Heather raised a brow, determination in her voice.
"You picked the wrong bitches to slap."
Taylor's P.O.V
"Ms Gripling!" Reporters pushed against each other in their swarm as I walked past, "Ms Gripling, just a question!"
"I can't answer any right now," I say as I hurriedly walk past.
"But it's crucial!" One insisted, "It's about the match against Tessa Banks! Do you think you can clobber her like Lucy Thunderberker?"
"Um...no comment," I say as I see the hall leasing to the prep rooms.
"Are you sure?" Another pressed, "You are a rising star in the community and we believe that-"
"She said no comment dipshit," Jo got between me and the reporters, "So unless you wanna have a mushy face, I suggest you don't harass my friend here again."
"Yes, Ms Earl," They all rushed away, gossiping as they did.
"Reporters, am I right?" She nudged me as she laughed.
"Yeah," I smiled, "Thanks for saving my tail, Jo."
"No problem," She sniffed, "Just tell me if those weasels bother you again. Us gym buddies gotta stick together."
I nodded as she disappeared into the crowd, leaving me alone to prepare for my match.
.0.0.0.
"And against Tess is the rising star: Taylor Gripling!" Cheers filled the room as I waved to the crowd. Everyone seemed to be excited about the match and I couldn't believe how many people actually came to support me. A few weeks ago I thought I'd never stand a chance against any of these girls, but now I was sure I was as good as any of them. I was ready for this. I always was.
"Ready?" Tessa's ponytailed braids swished as she banged her fists together, "I've heard a lot about the mysterious Taylor Gripling."
"You have?" I say as I go into my ready position, "So you've heard how good I am?"
"Or how amateur!" She laughed, "But I think you have a fair chance, even though I'm going to win."
"We'll see," I smirked, "I'm full of surprises."
The match soon started, both of us circling the other. The gap got smaller and smaller each time round as we observed our opponent. As I went round, I kept thinking about what Eva told me. Aim for the torso, aim for the torso, aim for the torso. Forget the face: she guards it well. But I should also feign that I'll hit it. Otherwise she'll catch on.
I go for the first hit, acting as if I were going for her jaw. Immediately, Tessa reacted guarding her chin as I went for her torso instead. My fist collided with her gut, causing her to stumble backwards. The wind was taken out of her and I could tell that I should strike. Not hesitating I lunge forward, punching her under the chin in the process. Blood bubbles from her lips as she glares at me, wiping it away.
Wordless, she picks herself up stalking ominously towards me. Her brown eyes are dull, devoid of mercy, and I can see the anger pulsing inside her. I got ready to block, knowing fully well that a attack was coming. My legs trembled as Tessa came closer, her presence cold and ominous. She reminded me of a wolf right now, cornering her prey and getting ready to tear it apart. This wasn't good.
"Don't chicken out, Tay!" I heard Lighting's voice.
"Yeah, pound that toffee back into caramel!" Jo smirked.
I smiled slightly as their words helped my legs not to tremble. My stomach was fluttering now, making me feel light and dizzy. The nerves were getting the best of me. I closed my eyes to try and recollect myself, but as I did I felt a fist connect with my face. In my panic, I forgot to check that my face was covered. Blood cascaded from my nose, landing on my chest and the ring. It continued to drip as I glared at Tessa.
"A hit for a hit," She grinned as she watched me wipe some of the blood from my lips.
"You're lucky I don't waste my swear counts on people like you," I chuckled as I raised my hands again.
"Aren't you a tough one to break," Tessa smiled and then frowned, "You won't last a second longer in this match."
We both leaped at each other then, her attacking and me blocking. She punched and jabbed at me, until she'd backed me into a corner. I was pretty shaken and I could feel a few spots on my arms and face that would have bruises tomorrow. Especially near my eyes and jaw. However I was tiring Tessa out. The more she punched, the more energy she exulted.
The referee was about to separate us, but then I decided to stop defending and chance an attack. Acting upon it, I brought my fist to Tessa's stomach and she fell to her knees. She wheezed as she the match ended and once again I'd won. But only by chance.
Shouts and cheers fill the room as I smile at the crowd.
"Taylor will verse Shanay Skyler next week!" The referee beamed as the crowd cheered, "Be ready because Taylor could end up winning again!"
The crowd cheered once more, but this time my smile faltered. Once again I'd won, but only by a chance. That's right: a chance. So what could happen when I verse Shanay next week? Would I lose? Would I choke?
All I could do was think as I walked from the ring and headed towards the prep rooms.
Brick's P.O.V
I instantly froze as I walked into the classroom Katie was using to make her designs in. Everyone sat at a station: cutting, threading, stitching or using a sewing machine. Colourful bolts of material, buttons, glitter, sequins and all that you could think of were spread around as the designers worked.
"Brick!" Katie set what she working on down and smiled, "I'm so glad you made it! Everyone's been working so hard since Blythe left to go to Downtown City with her dad."
"Um...that's unfortunate," I say stiffly, "Well I, um, just thought I'd give it a shot since you seemed so stressed the other day."
"That's fine," She chuckled, "Tom and Jen show you the team and how things work around here." At her words two people stood up. They both looked as if they were matching with their coordinated colour schemes.
"I'm Jen," The woman smiled slightly.
"And I'm Tom," The guy smiled, "I didn't think the military type would be interested in fashion."
"Trust me, Tom," Katie rolled her eyes, "Brick knows his stripes and dots. He'll be fine."
"You sure?" Jen raised a brow, "We can't afford for this to go down in flames."
"I'm sure," Katie went back to her project, "You guys just get him settled and you'll see."
The matching pair groaned before sighing and leading me around the room. They showed me where the materials are kept, then where to get any pencils if mine snapped or the lead broke, introduced me to the other designers and finally dropped me off at my work station.
"Well, you seem to know what you're doing," Tom nodded.
"Sorry if we seem harsh," Jen sighed, "We're just stressed about Blythe leaving. Plus, if we fail this we'll be has-beens in the fashion world!"
Both shivered at her words. I guess this was a pretty big deal for them.
"So, no pressure," Both said as they walked off.
"Yep," I reply, before grabbing the sketchbook Katie had prepared for me.
I flicked it open to the first page and thought for a bit before spotting something outside that intrigued me. Inspired, I began to sketch something.
...
A half hour later and the blonde next to me, Dakota, had called everyone over to look at what I'd been sketching. Everyone was saying how good it was and how it'll definitely help to make the collection better.
"Why's everyone bothering Brick?" Katie approached us, "I know he's new but we have a deadline and- wow. Did you design this Brick?"
I nodded, proud that I'd done something everyone liked.
"That's amazing!" Lindsay beamed, "I'd, like, totally model it!"
"I don't think it's anything special," I shrugged, "You guys' designs are way better!"
"But the colour, the simplicity- it's-" Tom insisted, "Amazing!"
"This has to be put into the final edition," Katie agreed, "Brick get to work immediately! Everyone else, finish your designs we need to meet that deadline."
The room was then filled with responses and the sound of shoes, mainly heels, tapping the ground as the designers rushed to their stations. We had a deadline to meet and judging by how everyone reacted it must be extremely important.
Sierra's P.O.V
"Isn't this amazing, Izzy!" I tried to make my voice stand out against the music and other fans' squeals.
I'd bought a ticket to the Drama Bro's concert that was a few hours' drive away and I have to say it was so worth it. The music's good, I get to see Cody and have fun! What'd be even better would be if it was on campus. Then I could take as many pictures as I pleased and maybe even bring all my friends. Only Izzy was willing to go on the long drive with me.
"It's great alright," Izzy smiled beside me. Her hair was in two puffy space buns and she wore glow sticks around her wrists and neck. She'd even painted on her face and added a few gems as if we were going to a festival and not just a concert.
"You don't seem focused on the band," I say as I watch her get out her phone.
"Oh, I am," She grinned, "I just wanna document the moment. Selfie!"
We both posed, getting a good one before she posted it. We then went back to listening to the band.
People were all around us, sweaty bodies rubbing against the other and voices joining in cheers. Who knew the guys were this good? Well, I did back when Cody gave me that ad. I remember that like it was yesterday, he'd actually asked me to do something for him! Well he always does, but that time it wasn't for the newspaper. But recently he's been acting a little strange...
"Looks like someone's thinking about Cody!~" Izzy teased, "Good thing you came to see their final concert before they go too far."
"Mhm," I say still thoughtful, "Hey, you wanna video call Noah and Eva?"
"Yeah," She nodded, "All this music's making my ears ring."
I just laughed at her comment before we made our way towards the bathrooms. I think I need a break from the band, or maybe the crowd: it's making me worry about Cody. Perhaps talking to Eva and Noah will help me to clear my head.
Cody's P.O.V
"Hey, wasn't that Sierra and Izzy?" Harold raised a brow as we the final song and were heading backstage.
"Yeah, it was," Justin agreed, "Hasn't Sierra got a thing for you, Cody?"
"A creepy stalker thing," I say, "But she's gotten better over the years."
"Sounds like you have an admirer," Trent chuckled and the others laughed.
"Meh, I'd say someone with an infatuation," I shrugged, "Tomato, tomahto."
"Sure," They all smirked.
"Ha, ha, very funny guys," I blushed slightly, "You all know I have a thing for Gwen."
"Who's taken by Duncan," Harold stated, "You can't chase after her forever. Gosh, you're nearly as bad as Sierra."
"Am not," I defend.
"You stole her bra once for a dare," Trent looked at me, "How stalkerish is that? You always complain about Sierra taking your toothbrush."
"Ok, maybe you guys have a point," I admit.
"Maybe?" Justin chuckled, "You have a serious issue. Although, you're doing a good job at avoiding a restraining order."
The other laughed while I just sighed. How did we even end up talking about this? All Harold said was that he saw Sierra and Izzy in the crowd.
"I wonder what Sierra and Izzy were doing here anyway," I say thinking out loud.
"They probably came to see us, man," Justin responded, "I mean, we're the number one boy band in the country. Maybe internationally."
"It wouldn't be impossible," Harold agreed, "We are good."
I just nodded as we headed back towards the dressing room. Maybe they're right, I mean why else would Sierra and Izzy come to a concert?
