Hope you guys enjoy the new chapter!

If you check my main page you can see which stories I am working on, or at least the ones I'm supposed to be working on. I tried my best finding all the spelling, and grammar errors.

Enjoy!

Kidnapped Because Of Meatloaf

"...-ven...Raven...Raven!"

"H-huh?"

Lola stared at me with an annoyed frown on her face. "Finally, I've been calling you for a while now. Why are you spacing out so much?"

I glanced at Lola and the others before looking down. "Sorry, I didn't mean to."

Lola smirked knowingly. "Oh, I know what it is. You've got a certain someone in mind, don't you?"

When I tensed and blushed, Lola laughed.

"I knew it!"

Kat perked up not wanting to miss any new information to tease me with. "What is it? What is it?"

"I assume something happened at James' party." Trent accurately guessed.

Lola nodded and crossed her arms as a secretive smile danced on her face. "A lot of things happened at that party."

By now Kat's eyes were practically bulging from her sockets and she leaned over the makeshift lunch table in excitement, "Come'on! Don't be like that! Tell me!"

"We~ll," Lola teased in a sing-song voice, "Ok, listen up."

While Lola told the others what happened at the party I sighed. Lola wasn't wrong that someone was on my mind, but it wasn't Sirius like she thought it was. Discreetly I stole a glance at Tom who was happily chatting with the multitude of students that surrounded his table. He looked completely different now than he did yesterday. The smile he showed them felt so fake, and forced now that I knew how he really was. I sighed lightly and looked down at my half-eaten lunch. Yesterday, I didn't get back home until 7pm because I had fell asleep and Tom hadn't felt the need to wake me. Luckily no one was home when I returned, so I didn't have to explain why I was coming back so late.

I was hoping being at school would help keep my mind off of it, but every time I looked at my hand everything Tom did to me replayed in my mind. How everything came to be was wrong. I had only been talking to Tom for less than 2 months, most of it about the English project, and now - all of a sudden - I'll be going to his home every Sudney for-well- whatever Tom wants. And despite my mind telling me it wasn't right, my body would shake and burn whenever I thought of Tom as if yearning for him.

'Ugh, what is wrong with me?'

It wasn't right that my heart sped up for him. He didn't do anything but bully, tease and say mean things to me.

'...But...'

Then he goes and praise me with such a sweet voice. I am embarrassed to admit it but I was pleased when he said that. As I stared at my hand I frowned in a mixture of confusion and frustration at my conflicting feelings.

"-and this hand, that she's staring so hard at, is the one that she received a kiss on."

Lola grabbed my wrist pulling me from my thoughts. When she suddenly grabbed my arm I panicked. The reason being was that I was wearing a sweatband around my wrist to hide the mark Tom gave me. Surprisingly they hadn't asked about it, but I was also relieved since I didn't want anyone to see it.

"Atta girl! I didn't think you had it in you!" Kat grinned and sent my a hearty thumbs up.

Beside me Lola nodded in agreement, "I second that. She even got Sirius' and Remus' numbers."

"B-but that doesn't mean anything." I quickly spoke up hoping to quell their growing excitement, and hid my wrist under the table and out of their sights. The last thing I needed were their imaginations running wild. "We're just friends. Besides, like I told Lola, Sirius told me that he has someone he likes already. And Remus has a girlfriend already."

"That was obviously a lie." Kat snorted.

"I tried to tell her that."

"It sounds like he wants you to drop your guard around him."

I groaned, "Mary not you too."

Mary only giggled in response. Fortunately, there was still someone with some sense about them in my group of friends.

"Or he could be telling the truth." Trent pondered a loud, "Maybe he really does only want to be friends." Then with a dismissive shrug he ended with, "Then again I could be wrong. I'm not interested enough in romantics to put much thought into it."

"If that's the case," Lola leaned across and plucked the poor younger boy on the forehead, "Then keep your opinions to yourself."

"Besides, just think about it. When I get with James, the four of us can go on double dates and stuff. This way I can make sure you aren't a complete ditz."

I pouted in indignation, "I'll have you know, I can handle something like a date on my own just fine. And you sound pretty confident about you and James."

She nodded matter-of-factly, "Well of course I am. Half the battle is having confidence-"

'Well you have plenty of that.' I thought with a nervous chuckle to myself.

"-and after that is opportunity. I just have to find excuses to be around him, or talk to him. The more I do, the more chances I will get that something might happen. I mean, the more you are around someone, the more you can't help but think about that person."

Lola looked really determined to make something spark between her and James. It never failed to amaze me how assertive, and strong Lola could be. She was always someone who I could turn to, to help me out when I was in trouble or to just give me the strength and support to achieve something. Sometimes I wondered what kind of friend I was to her. How did she see me? For me, Lola was a shining light and someone who I could aspire to be. She was just so sure in everything that she did or said. If I ever had someone that I liked I wouldn't be able to approach it like she did.

"That being said-" She folded her arms and tiled her head slightly in contemplation, "How do I do that, and make it seem natural? We have a class together but he's always surrounded by girls it's hard to get to him."

"You tried texting him?" Kat asked.

"Yeah, but the conversation kind of died after a while."

Just as I was thinking the lunch break was longer than usual, the bell rung and everyone went their separate ways. The next few days nothing of note happened. Tom didn't make any indication that we had anything to do with one another, and other than an occasional nod from wither Abraxus or Antonin, I had no other contact with the group. Sunday eventually came around again, and without much choice I would meet up with him.

Two weeks later brought September to an end, and other then having to bear though Sundays, everything went pretty normal. Kat's grandparents were finally feeling better, and since Kat lived with them they would be released to their home soon. I had also heard that Lola's father had succeeded in his promotion. Fall break was also coming up soon, and I was looking forward to having a full school week off. Lola already had plans, apparently her family was going on some trip as a congratulations for her dad's promotion. Kat would be in full time caregiver mode for her grandparents, and other than the occasional volleyball meet up with Mary, I probably wouldn't see her much. Guess it was going to be a pretty quiet break for me.

"We're back!" Trent and I called out as we entered our home.

"Welcome back."

Trent and I shared a look in surprise that there was even a response. It was rare for Dad to be home on a Monday. When we walked into the living room our shock increased upon see the sharp dressed, intellectual looking man sitting with my father. The man wore a very sharp black suit, and rectangular glasses that made his eyes appear beadier and more brooding than they were. His black hair was slicked back, and his entire demeanor screamed professionalism. He had that typical look that would make all the workplace ladies swoon over him. Unlike my father, who had very strong and defined features, the other man was very easy on the eyes. His face was smooth, and had gentle features that one would think he came straight from some girl's fantasy uncatalogued. Having both this man and my father in one room was kind of intimidating, but regardless we greeted him with a smile. After all, he was Carlos Reed, Trent's father.

"Dad, what are you doing here?" Trent asked as his father stood and walked over to us.

"Mainly business, but it's been a while since I've seen you so I though I'd visit as well."

"Hello Uncle." I smiled and gave him a brief, and admittedly awkward, hug.

"I'm glad to see you are well." He look at his wrist watch, "Are you done for the day Trent? I wish to talk to you."

"Yeah, just let me put my things away."

I could tell Trent was excited to finally be able to spend some time with his father. Other than the occasional letter, or phone call, he hadn't had much contact with Carlos. While Trent was getting ready I asked, "How long will you be here?"

"For a while."

Maybe it was because he was a lawyer, but talking to Carlos was just as difficult, if not more difficult than talking with my Dad. He only ever answered just enough of the question, and never elaborated. It was frustrating sometimes, but I could understand the reason. He wouldn't make for a very good lawyer if he ran his mouth so freely, and with an impressive 2% loss rating, Carlos was considered one of the best in his field. It wasn't hard to tell why Trent was as smart as he was.

"Will you be staying with us?"

"Yes, for the time being."

"In that case, would you like me to prepare a lunch box for you?"

"I would appreciate it."

Trent returned and soon the two of them were out the door.

"Raven."

"Yes, Dad?"

"Next weekend there is a dinner party I want you to attend." When he saw me visibly deflate he added, "Trent will also be joining us. It will be a good way to get his foot in the door as well. Though, he is a bright kid, so I'm sure even without my help he would do fine."

Wait, so what is he trying to say about me?

"Also, I'd also appreciate it if you'd start making my lunches again."

The request surprised me, but I was no less happy to accommodate. "Sure thing. Are you staying for the rest of the day?" To my question he nodded, and since we also had Carlos here I knew I would need to make a larger than normal dinner. After a quick inventory check I noticed we were short on a few things, so I decided to run to the store. It was nice to have a full table after such a long time, and I enjoyed cooking for large groups of people. When Trent and Carlos returned I was just finishing up dinner. After we all ate Trent and I cleaned up, and I began making lunches for everyone. Finally, around 10:30, I was able to go bed.

The next morning when I woke up our dads had already left and had took their pre-made lunches with them. We told the others that Trent's dad was back in town, though we didn't know exactly how long. When I asked what they talked about while together, Trent said that his dad only asked him how school life was going, and to look over some data. It was crazy to think that someone as young as Trent could hold such a highly valued opinion in the business world. Even my father has asked Trent to double check some numerical data, and spreadsheets on occasion.

While school passed by without incident, it wasn't until Trent and I were on our way home did something feel off. After getting off the train I couldn't shake the feeling that someone was watching me. When I turned around I thought I saw someone try to duck out of view but there were so many people moving about it was hard to tell. I frowned unable to shake the feeling, and noticing my discomfort Trent observed me worriedly.

"Is something the matter?"

"Hmm, I don't think so." I faced him with a smile, "Let's just get home."

The feeling of being followed persisted all the way until we got home, and I couldn't enter the house fast enough. It was a strange feeling, but Trent didn't seem to notice it so maybe I was just imagining things. I had been stressed out lately with the whole Tom situation. Maybe it was finally getting to me. I shook my head to rid myself of those thoughts and removed my shoes.

"Oh, dad and Uncle Reed are here." I said upon seeing their shoes. "That's surprising."

A thoughtful look entered Trent's eyes, "It is a bit curious that Uncle Clark isn't at work two days in a row."

"It is, but it's also nice to have a full house once in a while." I smiled brightly, "Since we don't have much homework, I think I'm gonna try to make a homemade pizza."

Trent's eyes lit up, "Really? Will it have-"

"Extra cheese?" I finished his question with a giggle, "How could I forget? I'll have to run to the store for some things though."

Trent offered to come with me, but I declined saying that I would be alright on my own. I thought about the feeling I had earlier, but decided that it was my imagination. After putting my things away I knocked on my dad's study assuming they would be there. I told them I would be heading to the store and asked if they needed anything, before heading out. Thankfully, it appears it was all in my head, because I didn't feel like I was being watched while out. After buying the necessary items I returned home and began prepping for the meal. Along with the pizza I was also making a vegetable stir-fry and some steamed rice since both were easy and quick to make. After a few hours I was finally putting the pizza in the oven and I got a chance to sit down and work on my homework.

It was around 8pm when I had the table ready for dinner. Seeing Trent making his way to the table I laughed, "Looks like I've trained you well. I'll get our dads, oh, and hands off the pizza till I get back."

"Dang it." I heard him curse under his breath.

"Dad, Uncle I made dinner." I called out as I walked closer to the study. I raised my hand to knock on the door but paused when I heard a voice.

"I appreciate the help, Clark. The work of your detectives have been detrimental in building my case."

"It's nothing. Though, I'd feel better if you'd agree to let me give you an escort until the trial is over."

"Their kind of scare tactics hardly bother me anymore. I've been through my fair share of troubles, and this is hardly something to fret over."

I wondered if I should interrupt their conversation. It sounded pretty important, and very dangerous. Carlos was a prosecutor so sometimes he had to put some of the worst people behind bars. With that kind of job I'm sure he had many people that wanted him dead. If my dad, as the Police Chief, was giving him personal help then whoever he was prosecuting must be someone dangerous. I shuddered thinking about it. It sounded like their conversation was coming to an end, and though I didn't intend to, I didn't want to be caught eavesdropping. Gently I knocked on the door and informed them that dinner was ready.

"Hey, you think you could make some meatloaf tonight?"

Trent asked the next day, as we were getting off the subway to go home. It wasn't too often Trent made request, so when he did I usually tried to follow through. I thought about it before answering.

"I don't mind, but we'll have to make another store run." It was a good thing there was a mini mart in walking distance. If Uncle Reed and sad were going to be around the house like this, then I would need to make a shopping trip. I can't keep going everyday.

"Then let's do it before going home."

"Ok, that sounds good. This weekend we should plan to go grocery shopping. Were running low on hand soap too." Thinking about the weekend made me think of my deal with Tom and suddenly my mood plummeted. Just what was he going to make me do this time? Thinking about our last three encounters caused an uncomfortable heat coursing through me.

'Easy girl. Nothing good will come from thinking about it now.'

I quickly shook my head, hoping that Trent hadn't noticed my shifting mood. Luckily, he appeared to be lost in his own thoughts.

Soon we walked into the small grocery story and browsed the place only briefly. After getting what we needed we headed to the register. As we were waiting a whispered conversation behind me caught my attention.

"I wonder whats going on."

"They look so suspicious too."

I sent a quick glance at the two older ladies behind me as I began to pay more attention.

"Not even this area is safe anymore."

"We should hurry and get home. Nothing good can come from staying here longer than necessary."

"You would think that with Officer Clark's home so close they wouldn't come down here."

"That's true. I moved here because I thought it was safe."

My eyes widened in surprise at the sudden hand on my arm. I looked at Trent who was looking both confused and worried about my lack of concentration. I realized that the cashier was waiting for the money, and with an apologetic smile I paid for our items and we left the store.

"You've been acting a little off lately. Is everything ok?"

I didn't answer and instead took a nervous look around us before settling on Trent's worried eyes. "Did you hear what those ladies were talking about?"

The worry in his eyes seemed to intensify and he shifted his eyes to the floor. I took that as a 'yes'.

"Well, let's hurry up and get home." I pushed us along hoping that we would arrive home soon.

The walk back home felt longer than normal, and despite the time of day there was no one on the roads. Not even cars seem to drive by. The eerie lack of people, combined with the old ladies' conversation formed a bubble of anxiety in my gut. I cast a glance over my shoulder and I froze at what I saw. It was the edge of someone's shadow just on the other side of the wall of the corner we just turned. Was there really someone following us? Why? What could they be after? As I tried to rack my brain for an answer Trent's strained voice pulled me back to reality.

"Raven."

He look visibly shaken now. Because Trent was in the same year, and always acted mature I would sometimes forget he was only 15 years old. He probably noticed something was up way before I did, but hadn't said anything to keep me from worrying. Now that this was the situation I could see that he was just as scared as I was. Did he know why we were being followed? No! Now wasn't the time. When we were home, and safe I could ask. Right now - as the older one - I needed to be calm. I took a deep breath and tried to smile reassuringly at Trent. I firmly grabbed his wrist, and he nodded in silent understanding.

Suddenly we broke out into a run, making a a beeline for our home. We were still 10 minutes from home, but I had hope that we could at least out run them. Sadly, that dream came to an abrupt end because we suddenly crashed right into two men in black suits.

The guy's face was uncomfortably close to mine and I was enveloped in a crushing hold. I struggled and writhed in his old but it was useless.

"L-let me go!"

Beside me Trent was also struggling, but the guy holding him was extremely buff, giving Trent no chance of escape. His face contorted in pain when his arms were pinned roughly behind his back.

"Who are you?! What are you after?" Trent grimaced as he tried to struggled against his captor.

We continued to struggle when a black can came to a screeching halt in front of us. A man wearing a red sweatsuit and smoking a cigarette exited this van. When his eyes landed on Trent a crooked smirk cracked his face.

"Looks like a big catch today, huh boys?"

"W-whats g-going on?" I tried to sound confident but I was so scared that my voice was shaking. "

I was ignored and the man walked over to Trent, "So you're the brat, huh? You got a nice little sum over your head you know." He chuckled darkly.

My mind went blank as I tried to figure out some way out of this, or if I could at least get Trent out of here. But what could I do? After hearing what the guy said Trent tensed up and his lips formed a thin line. Maybe there was someone close by who could call the police.

"S-somebody!" I shouted as loud as I could. "Somebody hel-!" The guy holding me spun me around so my back was against him and shoved his forearm into my throat. His thick arm crushed my windpipe and all I could do was claw at his arm as I gasped for breath.

"Heh, give it up sweetheart. No one is coming to help you. We made sure of that."

"St-stop that!" Trent shouted finally finding his voice. "She can't breath!"

"If you want someone to blame in all of this, blame that daddy of yours." He took a hit of his cigarette before laughing again.

Black spots were beginning to dot my vision and their voices were becoming a dull murmur in the background. I began struggling less as my energy and consciousness began to fade away. Right as darkness was about to take over a rush of oxygen entered my lungs and I felt myself being roughly pushed forward making me fall to the ground. The sudden extension of live made me dizzy and I coughed and gagged as my vision began to slowly return. Every intake of breath burned my throat, and my eyes teared up.

I looked up and finally noticed Trent being shoved into the car. My eyes widened in fear. With every bit of strength I could muster I lunged forward and latched onto the man in the red jogging suit. "W-wait." I wheezed. "Y-you can't-ah!"

He dug his hand into my hair and yanked me off of him. "If you know what's good for you, you'll stay put."

"Don't worry about me." Trent called from the van. He tried to smile, but when I looked at him he was so scared. His lips trembled, and his voice shook. How could he tell me to not worry if he looks at me like that? I couldn't let them take him.

I reached out for his leg to stop him again, "T-take me i-instead." I pleaded. This time I felt a sharp pain in my stomach and I curled into a ball from the pain.

"Persistent bitch." The guy spat, and hopped in the van.

As I laid there in pain I heard the van door shut and the squealing of tires as the drove off. I raised my head in the hopes I could catch the license plate, but dropped my head in defeat when I saw the blank plate. I coughed and rose to my feet as quickly as I could.

Shakily I ran back to the house and when I arrived I practically fell through the door . "Dad! Uncle Reed!" My voice was still raspy, and it hurt to shout but I didn't care.

"Dad!" I scrambled up the stairs and threw open the door to his study. It was empty.

I had to hurry for Trent. We could still catch them. They couldn't have gone very far. I fumbled for my phone and called my dad. As it rung I paced around the living room unable to calm myself down. What were they doing to him? Were they hurting him? Why did they take him? I didn't understand! I sobbed in frustration when he didn't answer and tried again. With each rang I could feel the helplessness of my situation growing and tears began streaming down my face. Out of all the times why wasn't he picking up?

Finally on my third try he picked up, sounding slightly annoyed. "Raven, why ar-"

"Daddy, it's Trent! He's-These guys-I couldn't st-st-stop the-"My mind raced a mile a minute and I couldn't find the words to form a complete sentence. Instead I sobbed on the phone unable to do anything else. I was useless, even now. My breath was shallow and no matter what I didn't I couldn't get myself to calm down.

"Raven, where are you now?" There was an urgency in his voice I never heard before.

I tried to answer between my sobs but it was no use.

"Raven!" His gruff shout hit me like a bullet and I my hysterics calmed down enough to listen. "Are you safe?"

"Y-yes...I'm home." I sniffled.

"We'll be there soon. Just calm down and try to get yourself together so you can properly explain what happened."

Though he couldn't see I nodded, "O-okay...Hurry home."

"I will."

The call ended and I could feel my tears returning. How could I let something like this happen? If only I had noticed something sooner, or if we just went home instead of going to the store maybe this could have been avoided. As I plopped onto the couch I dropped my head in my hands and glared at the floor in self loathing. I was so pathetic! I couldn't do anything and now Trent was gone. I chewed my bottom lip and cried silently until there was a sound at the door.

My head shot up at the noise and my body reflexively tensed. Did they come back? Were they going to take me now? However, instead of a red jogging suit I saw two stone faced men who locked eyes on me. Seeing them seemed to open the flood gates again and hot tears ran down my face. I jumped to my feet and rushed over to wrap my arms around my Dad's waist and bury my face in his chest. Dad gently caressed my head and pat my back comfortingly.

"D-daddy, I-i'm sorry. Trent-He's g-gone!"

"Calm down, Raven." His voice was assertive, and firm with only a hint of compassion. "You can't give an account like this."

How could he be this way even now? It was like he didn't even care. This wasn't just anybody! This was Trent we were talking about. How does he expect me to be calm?! As if sensing my thoughts, Dad moved me enough so that he could look me in the eyes.

"The longer it takes for you to tell us, the less time we have to find him." With a small sigh he added, "I know it's difficult, but there isn't time for self pity."

Ugh, of course he was right again. We needed to find Trent as soon as possible, and me crying wasn't going to help anyone. Besides, if Dad was kind to me now I think I would just start crying again. With last few sniffles I nodded and we all moved to the sofas. I then began to tell them about what happened, and what I could remember. It was strange because before I could barely get my thoughts together, but now the more I talked about it the more I was able to remember. It all happened so fast that it was hard to believe. When I finished I looked at Uncle Reed. His expression was unreadable and somehow it frightened me.

"Uncle...I'm sorry I couldn't help him. I couldn't even get a license number."

"You did all you could." His replied tensely .

"What'll we do?" Dad asked folding his arms. "The trail will resume Wednesday."

Uncle Reed stared off into the distance for a long while. His expression never changed but I noticed his eyes hardened as he settled into his resolve. Slowly he met my Dad's gaze and said, "No matter their demands...I plan on finishing the trail."

My blood ran cold at his words. I didn't fully understand what was happening but it sounded like he was leaving Trent out to dry. His own son! In unchecked rage I glared at him, "How can you say that, Uncle!? Do you plan on abandoning him?! This is your own son here! I-i'm sure whatever trail it is you can deal with a stupid loss!"

"Raven, watch your tongue."

I hesitated when my father spoke. How could he just go along with this? Trent was-he was kidnapped. I struggled with my anger and to bite back the other things I wanted to say. Instead I settled for, "Just...Just why? Why Trent?"

"This really isn't something you should stick your nose into." Carlos grumbled, "Your run in this evening should give you an idea of who I'm dealing with."

"...You mean...It's a gang?"

My dad suddenly stood up, "You don't need to know what's going on."

"But Dad I-"

"Do you want to make yourself more of a target?" His eyes challenged me and I quickly looked away.

Being his daughter already put a target on my back for his enemies, and I'm not surprised that Trent has a similar problem. My shoulders dropped and I huffed a sigh in defeat. Was this the extent of my usefulness? When I felt a hand on my shoulder I looked up and locked eyes with Carlos.

"I don't plan on abandoning my son."

With those parting words he whipped out his cell phone and went upstairs with a determined expression. I then turned to my dad who walked towards me with a first aid kit.

"Let's get you patched up."

He sat me down and took my hands. It was then I noticed the scraps along my palms and knees. It must have been when I was thrown to the ground. As he silently applied the salve to my wounds I stared blankly at the ground. Everything that had happened within the last hour had such a toll on me I didn't have anymore energy. If I was more like Lola maybe I could have saved Trent. She wouldn't wouldn't have let something like this happen. Trent was gone and it was all my fault.

Dad's voice cut through the heavy silence, "You said he kicked you. Does it hurt?"

Until then I didn't notice, but now that it was brought to my attention my side did hurt a little. I took of my school jacket and lifted my shirt slightly to see an ugly bruise starting to form. I winced from the sight and lowered my shirt. Dad's eyes hardened and his faced tightened in anger.

"Dad...They wont-" I bit my lip unable to finish my thought, but Dad caught on to my question.

"We'll bring him home. Don't worry about it. Also,-" He made me meet his eyes, "I feel I shouldn't have to, but don't speak of this to anyone. Starting today, and until this is all settled you'll have an escort."

I nodded not in any mood, or position to protest.

"Grab an ice pack for your neck, get some rest. We'll handle it from here." Dad patted my head before heading up the stairs, presumable to join my Uncle.

As I watched him walk away my chest tightened and an unbearable pain settled there. That night my thoughts of Trent and feelings of guilt kept me awake. Before I knew it light was peaking through the window and I got ready for school on auto-pilot. When I got downstairs it was a full house. My father and Uncle Reed were in the living room along with two other familiar faces.

It was Officers Raymona and Hiro. They were a recently married couple that have worked for my father for a few years now. They were nice people and always spoke to me if we ran into each other. Raymona was a 26 year old dark skinned woman, with long black hair and an average build. She hard warm chocolate eyes and a smile that gave her a motherly appearance. In terms of height she was only a few inches taller than me.

Next to her was her husband Hiro Takayama. He stood at the same height as my father with thin, short black hair and cobalt eyes. Being only 26, and Japanese, he had a very boyish appearance. Hiro had build that reminded me of Malfoy. He looks really thin, but even through his clothes I could tell it was lean muscle.

They were both wearing civilian clothes and looking at me with warm smiles.

"Officers Raymona and Hiro will be your escort until the situation is resolved." Dad spoke up. "You aren't to go anywhere without them present. Is that understood?"

"Yes."

Dad studied me for a while before saying, "Carlos and I won't be home for a while, so call me if you need anything."

"Ok."

After speaking to my escorts for a bit my father and Carlos left. When they did Raymona walked over to me and smiled kindly. "Come on, let's get you to school." She handed me my school bag and led me out to the waiting black Nissan.

I stared at the window and caught my reflection in the glass. The bags under my eyes showed my lack of sleep, and my overall appearance reflected out terrible I felt. Was it even a good idea to go to school today? How was I supposed to face everyone? Lola would figure out something is wrong, and if she pressed too hard I don't think I would be able to keep quite. I could feel a growing lump in my throat the more I thought about it.

"Maybe you should stay home for the day." Raymon turned her head to look at me. "It wouldn't do any good to force yourself, and you seem tired. Did you sleep last night?"

"No. I kept thinking about it."

"Raymona's right." Hiro then faced Raymona, "I'll inform the Chief while you take her inside. Perhaps something warm will help her get to sleep."

"Oh, good idea. How about I make something quick to eat. Maybe a soup" Raymona then urged me back into the house and to my room.

I sighed as I sunk back into my bed. Though I was relieved for not being forced to attend school, it didn't save me from my thoughts. I took a deep breath and tried to piece together everything that I knew. Dad and Uncle weren't going to tell me anything, which was probably for the best, but I wanted to understand.

Those men that came for us were from a gang and since they only took Trent, he must have been their sole target. Could this be related to Uncle's visit? From the little I overheard of their conversation, Uncle was working on a case and was getting direct help from my father. It must have been really high profile case, so there would surely be some news coverage of it, but since I don't watch T.V often I could have missed it.

I grabbed my computer to look it up. A quick search of Carlos' name quickly pulled up results. Once I read the article I almost felt stupid for how I didn't figure it out. It was so simple, but I couldn't put two-and-two together.

"Prosecutor Reed is days away from finally putting the notorious gang leader Torantino Valentine away for life. According to the Prosecutor himself, this is only the first step to making these gangs accountable for their crimes. He has been working on this case for months now, and with one more trial before the final verdict it won't be long before many can breath a sigh of relief." I read aloud and sighed sharply through my nose.

"So then...The gang is trying to use Trent to blackmail Uncle into dropping the case." Why couldn't they just tell me that? I didn't want to know any details about their case, I just wanted to know why Trent was taken.

My thoughts were cut by my phone vibrating. My heart clenched when I read Lola's name on my screen. It's already been 2 hours - time passed so quickly - and I noticed she had been trying to text me for a while. She was asking me where we were. It hurt me to lie but I didn't have a choice. I couldn't let her know that Trent was kidnapped. It came to me that I have been lying to the people around me a lot lately. First about my relationship with Tom, and now with this.

But what else could I do?

With a heavy heart I told her that Trent wasn't feeling well so I had to stay home and take care of him.

"Raven, come down and eat something." Raymona poked her head into my room.

"Ah, ok."

After eating I returned to my room. My lack of sleep finally caught up to me and before long I finally able to get some well needed sleep.

Sorry for the ending. I had actually planned on ending the chapter much earlier, but I couldn't find a good stopping point so I kept going. As you can see I still could find a decent ending point, so I apologize for how awkward it is.

Also don't worry, our favorite boy will make an appearance in the next chapter ^^

Please review if you have the time. Comments, ideas, or constructive criticism is welcomed!'i