What do I do?
- Dipper's POV -
Why did I come here?! I want to leave so badly. This place haunts me, even in the mornings. ``Hey, Dipper. The building can't jump out and scare you!`` I heard my sister laugh. I turned to glare her down until she stopped, realizing I was serious. ``Okay, jokes are off the list.`` She said, looking guilty.
``You think this is a joke?`` I said, raising my voice.
``Hey! I was just playing around! Nothing too serious!`` Mabel said, glaring at me.
``Easy for you to say. Luckily you don't have to suffer as I do.`` I said, glaring back at her.
``I mean, I wish I could wear an eye patch like you, brother.`` She said, easing her stare and smiling nervously. I stop my glaring and stared at her in confusion. ``What?``
``Wearing an eye patch means you're cool looking, right?~`` She winked at me.
``I don't know... does it? I don't feel any better than before.`` I said before shaking my head as we entered the school building.
``You don't! As long as you wear it, you will look cool! Trust me, In due time you will!`` She said, smiling brightly.
``Get your sunshine away from me.`` I grumbled, staring irritated at her.
``Aw, the little vampire doesn't want my sun~.`` She said. My stare soon turns into a deadly glare, scaring her a bit.
``It's true!`` She said, shooting the glare back at me. She then eases it and smiled again. ``I can't wait until our friends see you again! This will be exciting! Oh wait, we see them tomorrow...``
``Why not today?`` I asked, by now my stare has eased into a gentle one. She halted as I did too. I watched her expression go from a sad one to a burst of bright sunshine again. ``That's right! I held them off for far too long! Although we should just go in with a small group.`` She said.
``Good-`` I stopped myself from speaking what I was going to say in my head. ``Yeah, good idea.`` I finished my sentence. I shouldn't be thinking about leaving the group if it were to expand. That would be cruel of me, but would they even notice that I'm gone? I don't think anyone would care. ``Alright then! I'll text them during lunch and we should be good to go after school!`` She said, grabbing my hand, and pulling me forward.
``What about our home-``
``Homework can wait. Your health is more important than that hell. School can take a dump and leave for another year.`` Mabel interrupted me, looking back at me.
``I wish that could happen.`` I said, managing a small smile.
``Well, it's our last year so we should be good!`` She said. ``Just a terrible start, that's all!``
`` "Terrible Start," Yeah, right.`` I said, rolling my eyes. My sister laughed it off as she led the way to my first-period class. She can't go leading me around, thinking I need guidance from disappearing from school for 2 weeks. Well, I thank her for the company. I entered my first-period class as my teacher greeted me. They were asking where was I and was I alright after all this time. Why is everyone caring about me? At least, Mr. Waters doesn't, but it confuses me. Will I understand it? I don't know… it clutters my mind every time I think about it. Time passed by and lunch was almost ending, just 5 minutes left until the bell rings. I was hiding in the library, reading its books. Nothing seems to interest me, nothing at all, and it makes me mad. I let out a frustrated sigh and looked up at the nearby clock. Maybe I should head to class, perhaps I will have an interest in doing my classwork.
I got up and grabbed my binder and tucked the chair in with my foot before exiting the library. I quietly walked down the hallway, staring down at the floor before hearing a faint voice in the distance. I looked up and observed my surroundings. What caught my attention was a group of boys behind me, who were facing me. I widened my eyes in sudden fear, soon recognizing them. I quickly took off, running as fast as I could. I didn't want to see them again, not today, never. I should have stayed back at the library before I came through here. I hope they're not running after me.
I arrived at my last block, hearing the bell rang as soon as I halted at the door. I step out of the way, letting the previous class exit. As soon as it was clear, I entered. Like last time, the teacher questioned me. I said it was personal issues before I went to sit where I usually sit. Until the teacher offered me a seat up in the front. I accepted it since I probably missed a lot. This class should be easy to catch up with, anyway. When the period begins, I ended up doing the previous lessons and classwork that the teacher gave me rather than learning the extra information for today. That's good at least, although it's difficult working on them without help. I could ask for a tutor after school hours. Before I knew it, the class ended, and it was time to leave school. The teacher walked over to check on me as I understand some parts. And unfortunately, we ended up staying 10 minutes after I asked some questions about the problems and lessons. I ended up getting a tutor lesson on Friday since my teacher had no plans. I agreed as I exited the classroom, waving goodbye at my teacher.
I quickly head down the hallways and out of the school's entrance. I headed down the stairs before two people walked and halted in front of me. I stared blankly at Tom and Jade. ``That was a long talk with your teacher.`` Tom said, looking suspicious.
``... So what is it to you?`` I said, glaring mainly at Tom. I soon became wary of him. Jade... not so much.
``Nothing much. I was wondering why the teacher moved you away from us. Did you get in trouble for going missing 2 weeks?`` Tom asked, letting out a small chuckle afterward.
``Love it how you think all of this is a joke. In fact, is everything to you a joke?`` I asked coldly.
``Not the most part. No need to be harsh, I know you returned from a disappearance, but there's no need to be rude.`` He said, holding his hand out as if I was going to attack him.
``There is.`` I hissed, my mood snapping in an instant.
``There is? I don't remember doing anything bad to you.`` He said. I bit my lip and grunted.
``There is! Remember, you were with Jason, and what's that other boy name in the mall.`` Jade stepped in.
``At the mall? It was a friendly invitation. I was just doing you a favor, Mason.`` Tom said.
``You weren't. You made everything worse.`` I hissed.
``I did? Then why didn't you say something? Oh right, your friends didn't let you say anything. Gotta be faster than that.`` He said, letting out a snicker. I wanted to say something, but I think I realized, saying nasty stuff and shouting isn't the way to go. ``You know what, Tom. I don't want to be friends with you.`` I said.
``Where is this coming from? Is it because Jade is not right beside me and she's right next to you?`` He asked, which I turned to Jade, who was frightened. I turned back to him.
``This is final, I don't want to be friends with you.`` I said once more, watching his expression turn angry in seconds.
``Okay, listen up, I did nothing to you! After you come back from your disappearance this is how I am treated?! You're not a good friend, Mason.`` Tom said.
``And neither are you.`` Jade said, grabbing my arm and pulling me away from him. ``Come on. I don't want to be here any longer.`` There were sobs hinted in her voice. I nodded and followed her, ignoring the shouts from my ex-friend. I was grateful to have Jade there by me; it was like I was seeing another side of her. More like the previous one was the fake one. I'm so glad I caught my anger in the act, but I'm still shaking from the raging anger within me. At least I haven't snapped yet. We walked in silence before saying goodbye and going our separate ways.
I stepped into the Mystery Shack, walking through the gift shop area and into the hallway. I climbed up the stairs and into the shared room. I set my binder down on the desk and sat on my bed. I lay back down and stared at the ceiling. Maybe next time... I can go. For now, I want to cool off.
- Mabel's POV -
I walked down the pathway silently, watching each small rock pass me. Soon I came on concrete, observing the cracks. I looked up and saw a friend group in front of the park's entrance. I frowned before making it disappear. I understand, Dipper. Maybe on the weekends, we can go. I walked up to them, watching the red-haired girl noticing me and walking over. ``He... didn't come?``
``He had a rough day and didn't feel like coming.`` I said.
``Oh. School must have made his first day coming back worse. I guess we can hang just for today.`` Wendy said.
``Perhaps we can try again on the weekends.`` I said.
``Maybe.`` She said before leading me over to the group. The group frowned except for two people when they realize I didn't have Dipper with me. I told them what happened and they nodded in agreement. ``There's next time, so I'm sure we can do our best then!`` Pacifica said.
I smiled at her, nodding. ``I agree.`` We soon entered the park and laid out a vast blanket for all of us to sit and chat. As soon as we sat, I was the first to start off the conversation. ``I have something to tell you guys-``
``That you and Mermando are dating?`` Gideon interrupted me. I glared at him before nodding. ``Thought so.`` He added on. Shut up.
``Dang. Well, I guess the master of romance needs a lover after all.`` Pacifica said.
``Hey, it's not my fault I found a cutie.`` I chuckled, looking over at my boyfriend. ``Besides, if anyone needs help with it, I'll be here to listen to the end.`` I added, looking back to the group.
``That's good for you two.`` Wendy said, smiling.
``What about you and... uh, your boyfriend?`` I asked Wendy. She widened her eyes a bit before looking away.
``We split apart. It wasn't working for some odd reason. He kept being more and more clingy to me and I didn't like it at all.`` She said, shivering. ``Glad I dodged a bullet.``
I frowned, feeling sorry for her. Didn't realize the guy for her was that bad. ``Jeez, why do guys get like that?`` Pacifica asked.
``Some do not, but... I don't know, really. I don't want to offend the boys here that are with us this evening.`` Wendy said.
``Wise choice, Wendy.`` Gideon said, glaring at her.
``She said, some do not.`` Kahlil said, defending her, which caught me off guard.
``Alright, alright. I won't argue while you're here, Kahlil.`` Gideon said, backing off.
``Thank you, Kahlil. You're such a good friend.`` Wendy smiled before turning back to us. So they're friends... didn't realize he knew her before.
``Didn't mean to lead the conversation like that.`` Pacifica said.
``It's alright! Just white-haired wanted to be a little sh-t.`` I cussed, whispering to her. I made her laugh as I chuckled.
``I guess. So, how's everyone?`` Pacifica asked, looking around.
``It's good for me.`` Wendy answered first.
``You sure?`` I asked.
``I'm sure, you don't need to worry about me.`` Wendy said.
``And then they'll worry because you told them not to worry about you.`` Kahlil said.
``Shut it, Kahlil.`` Wendy said, swatting at him. ``Shouldn't you be daydreaming about someone?``
``...N-No!`` Kahlil squeaked, looking away from her. I noticed he was getting all red. I grinned evilly, waiting patiently for them to stop. I turned to Pacifica, who was eyeing me down.
``What are you about to do?`` She whispered to me. I chuckled, probably confusing everyone around me.
``Uh, what's wrong, dear?`` I heard Mermando say. I shook my head to him before turning back to the older friends we had.
``Does he have a crush?`` I asked Wendy.
``No.`` Kahlil answered first before Wendy could have said anything. I turned to him as he glared at me. I let out a chuckle. ``You can't hide it from me!`` I shouted at him.
``I can and I will.`` He hissed.
``He does, Mabel.`` Wendy answered.
``Wendy! I thought I could trust you.`` Kahlil said, glaring at her now.
``I wanted to see what this "Master of Romance" will do for your problem.`` Wendy said.
``It's not a problem! I have it under control.`` Kahlil said, even though I knew he needed help. Or did I? I mean, he could read this and roll his eyes at my suggestions.
``You keep waiting and waiting, I'm sure that's a problem.`` Gideon said.
``Do not get involved.`` Kahlil said, glaring down at the younger kid.
``Alright, just saying.`` Gideon said before turning his head back to Pacifica.
``Alright! I'll handle this on my own. I just know the perfect situation.`` I said, already coming up with the ideas. I can already see Kahlil shaking his head, not wanting none of this. I'm not sure why he doesn't want my help or anyone. Is it because I'm embarrassing him? Probably. I chuckled. ``I'll discuss it later. For now, my day has been doing well so far!`` I said, saving my friend from embarrassment and changing the topic back to Pacifica's question. I hope Dipper is doing well back at the shack.
I heard my boyfriend say how his day was and then Gideon's since Kahlil refuse to tell after the incident that happened. ``Well, my day has been running smoothly. You guys are glad that I had time to hang out. Although, I should hide...`` Gideon said.
``Why?`` Pacifica asked.
``People are falling over just to greet me, that's why.`` He answered.
``Well, that is what it means to be the popular kid of your school.`` Wendy said.
``I don't like it though.`` Pacifica said, frowning. ``I want every other student to treat me the same as they do. Instead, I only show my real self around my friends.``
``I'm afraid it won't happen unless you just go along with it.`` Gideon said. He seemed to not care about this current situation.
``I'm not going along with it, Gideon. Maybe it's luck in your case, but it's not in mine.`` Pacifica said, glaring at him now.
``Enjoy it while it lasts, being praised like hell.`` Gideon said.
``Not everyone is like you, Gideon.`` Kahlil said. Is he defending Pacifica now? I'm not sure.
``I know. I just don't understand why people don't enjoy the popularity that they generate.`` Gideon said, shrugging.
``It can annoy you, not being able to head to the destination you want to go.`` Pacifica said, easing her glare.
``I guess I can agree with that.`` Gideon said. ``Always getting in trouble with the teacher and such, I can see that.``
``Now you see?`` Pacifica said, smiling faintly.
``I know that is the negative side effect, but I just don't see it at all.`` Gideon said, shrugging. ``Rather not care about it at the moment. But sometimes you just need to accept it. Same with you.`` He said to Kahlil.
``No, thank you.`` Kahlil said, ``I'm not selfish like you are.`` He hissed.
``You... you don't seem popular...`` I said, staring at him confused.
``I used to be... and I didn't like it. Kind of stupid on how I got popular, but I'm guessing it was my appearance that attracted the girls.`` He said, looking away. ``And for some odd reason, I'm hearing slight conversations about me again.``
``Oh... that sucks. Do hope it doesn't hold you down.`` Pacifica said.
``Yeah... basically I don't enjoy talking about myself.`` He muttered.
``I can understand that. Coming from a twin who just loves to glare at me every dang morning.`` I said, huffing.
``Does he want to fight you every morning?`` Mermando asked.
``No. Dipper just glares at me until he had his morning coffee.`` I chuckled. ``It's kind of funny how he glares at me more if I laugh.``
``Probably because it bothers him, but we know how siblings are.`` Wendy said. ``Especially my four brothers...``
``You have brothers? Jeez, hope they're not like mine.`` I said.
``They're not. More wild and not your brother's type at all.`` Wendy said, letting out a small chuckle.
``I wish I had a sibling.`` Pacifica frowned.
``It's alright! You have me! You can consider me as a sister, I don't mind at all!`` I said, hugging my friend tightly.
``Thanks for the offer, Mabel.`` She said, smiling again. Soon we have gone into another talking phase until the sun was setting. I smiled at everyone, noticing Wendy was standing. We all did the same as it was time to go for everyone.
``It was great hanging out with you guys; I gotta go help my dad now.`` Wendy said.
``It was great too! I hope we can do this again.`` Pacifica said, smiling at her. Everyone said their goodbyes to her as more and more of us disappeared. And now it was just me walking home. Mermando attempted to make me come with him to other places in the town, but I didn't want to tonight. We can do that tomorrow. He seemed a little mad when I said that. I hope it didn't affect him that much.
I stepped into the Mystery Shack, ``Hey! How it goes, pumpkin?`` I heard Grunkle Stan say. I turned to him over the counter.
``It was good!`` I smiled.
``I'm glad you enjoyed yourself.`` He said before going back to cleaning up the shop. I turned and continued my way down the hallway. I climbed upstairs and over to the door where I heard odd noises, almost as if someone was crying. I grab the doorknob and slowly open it, to see my brother hugging himself with the blankets of his bed. I walked over and sat next to him, pulling him into a hug. ``What's wrong?`` I asked softly.
``... I... I don't know... I-I don't know... the world hates me and it... wants me gone.`` He sobbed.
``Hey, now. It does not; I don't want you gone... whoever told you they're wrong.`` I said, hugging him tightly.
``... but.. what if they're right..?`` He asked quietly. I stared at the void, wondering if it was the same situation that I've been in before, only this time, my father helped me out of the abyss. They're not right... those voices are never right. Even if it seems to be the truth...
...
What do I do?
End of Chapter 29