Trouble Minds.
- Dipper's POV -
I want to stay forever mad at my sister. I want to so much, but... I think I should let it go. I didn't mean to snap at her last week... and to be honest... we barely talked to each other for the entire weekend. It's Monday, and I'm panicking that she may forget about me or take the fact that I'm a terrible brother.
I ... I will make this up, I will apologize to her today.
I walked down the staircase, all ready to go this time. I'm finally prepared this time, but not as fast as my sister is. Lately, she's been quick to get ready without waiting for me, not like we get done at the same time anyways. I wonder, what got her up in her doubts this time?
I was shoved by my sister after she said, ``Hurry up, slow butt!`` With an annoyed tone. I frowned and sped up my pace. I did want to get something to eat, but I guess my sister was in a rush.
How do I do this? How do I apologize to her without getting her mad or anything? Maybe I will just do it.
We headed out to the car and got in. The car ride was quiet, filled with an annoying aura from my sister. I looked over at her as she glared at me with a hateful expression. I didn't return the glare or anything, I just frowned, making sure I was sorry.
She didn't accept it as I looked away from her. I don't think she wants my apology, but I must. I will give her one even if she doesn't like it.
We got dropped off as we walked alone in silence, separating when we're in the school building and off to our classes. I let out a sigh and walked into my first period, which turned into my 3rd period several hours later. Every class was taking my mind off of my thoughts. The importance of learning this subject and remembering the lesson that it provided. I can't believe we already have a test coming up. I'll make sure nothing on that day can ruin my mood.
On the bright side, our teacher in my current class told us something that sparked my interest. ``To know our safety of this school, I will be showing you guys a slideshow about the Missing Teens.`` The teacher turned and walked over to the laptop to show the screen on the whiteboard. She ordered a student to turn off the light and told the entire class to quiet down. I straightened myself and turned my attention to the screen on the board.
``We do this every year in every class since it's an importance to teach our students to never trust strangers.`` She began, turning to the screen as it showcased students before the kidnappings. ``They were all in the ages between 13 and 18, specifically teenagers.``
She pressed on her laptop for the next picture. ``They were good students, good people that had left our ranks to the heavens.`` The photos were the students who smiled delighted, some even playing and pranking on others. I also saw our teacher tear up a bit. Did she have a student who was kidnapped from her classes? I frowned, feeling sorry for her.
``They were all great students.`` She said as if her voice was fainting with her sadden tone. She pressed the next slide, where it showed 16 missing photos of the students who were once happy.
``16 Teenagers were kidnapped from 2009 to 2015.`` She said. I widened my eyes at one of them. K-Kahlil...? He was kidnapped?!
``Make it 15 since... Mr. Hassen was released.`` The tone of her voice was annoyed by force. I tilted my head. Aren't you happy that he's not with the kidnapper?! What is going on in this school?
``To this day, those teenagers have not been found nor the kidnapper.`` She finished, turning off the slideshow. People around me started up a conversation about the recent one who came back. I grumbled to myself, hearing their mean comments. Aren't you guys glad he's back? What is going on?!
The class ended as I packed my binder and headed over to the teacher. ``Ms. Garden?`` I said.
``Oh, yes, Mr. Pines?`` She said.
``Why is...- isn't it good that he's back?`` I asked. ``About the kidnapping.``
``I wish it was my other students. I could care less about Mr. Hassen.`` She said as I slowly stepped away.
``But isn't it good that he's not with the kidnapper?`` I asked again.
``It is, but I wish it was my other students again. Everyone agrees that he's not much of a good student.`` She said.
I can agree with the "picking on the 9th graders part." ``Alright.`` I said, not wanting to continue this conversation.
``Do you know Mr. Hassen since you asked me?`` She asked, staring at me.
``I'm his friend.`` I muttered, looking back at her with a firm look.
``Oh. That's good for him.`` She said as if her mood was switched. I looked confused.
``... I guess it is.`` I said. What's going on?
``Well. You better go before your late, Mr. Pines!`` She said.
``Oh, right! Thank you for reminding me.`` I said before turning away and exiting her class. I almost forgot that. I'm just so caught up that everyone is... saying mean comments about him. I shouldn't worry if it doesn't bother him. Wait. I have Lunch Period this time. ``...`` I shook my head. It's too late, anyway. I headed towards the lunchroom, I got my lunch and sat down alone to eat it. After I finished, I dumped the rest in the trash can before picking up my stuff and headed off to the library.
.
``Mason!`` I halted and grunted. I was trying to rush before I heard that voice. I turned and stared at the two familiar people. I guess it's time to tell them their names since they will appear every single time.
``Where are you going off to?`` The person who said my name was Jason. Tall and such a bad-boy.
``Yeah!`` That would be John, who is his side-kick.
``None of your business.`` I said, standing up straight. I wish I was faster. I can run, and they'll be running after me, trying to beat me up.
``But it is. We're friends, after all.`` He joked. I would watch them both laugh before coming to a stop. ``Do you still think that?``
``Think what?`` I asked. I know what he's talking about, thinking we're "friends." I don't think friends insult one another.
``That we're friends, idiot. Jeez, I guess your mind is forgetting things now.`` He said in a sinister way.
``And you're going to make it worse?`` I asked.
``You want me to?`` He said, looking a bit surprised.
``I just want you to leave me alone.`` I said. Don't say anything negative or anything triggering. He will beat me up for it.
``I'm afraid I can't do that. I can't leave a "friend" behind.`` He said. ``Besides, since your... 18 now, I think I can do whatever I want to you.``
``Doing assault is terrible. It's going to get you arrested.`` I said, making a point.
``The police in this town are lazy, did you forget that, idiot?`` Jason said.
``...I probably did.`` I said, telling the truth. I forgot about that.
``You must also know, no one will help you.`` He said.
``People did in the past, but okay. I will remember what you said, even if it's false.`` I said.
``Don't be a smartass, Mason. It is not allowed here.`` He said, getting a bit irritated.
``Then, I guess you can't understand me.`` I said.
``I can understand you perfectly fine!`` He said.
``Then, I guess you don't understand what I just said.``
``What?`` He is now looking confused. ``What are you talking about?``
``What did I say?`` I asked, looking up at him with a firm expression.
``You said- STOP THIS NOW.`` He shouted as he tried to reach for me.
I backed away and turned away, walking off with quick speed. ``Nope. You don't control me.`` I whispered before hearing footsteps catch up to me. I felt my hoodie pulled back as I watch my binder fall from my arms. I turned and pushed Jason off of me. ``Oh your GETTING IT NOW.`` He shouted, trying to reach for me again.
I dodged and grabbed my things quickly. I ran off as fast as I could. That didn't go as plan. He's dumber than he's ever was. He's always foolish, why should I do the trick just to make him madder. I halted to the school entrance doors. I sat by it and curled up in the corner. I was trying to hide, but I don't think they followed me. I hope not.
About the... Missing Teens... and how lazy our policemen are, why doesn't any one take up a stand and find their kid on their own? They must all think they were kidnapped and pulled into the jungle. I slowly stood up once I was in a comfortable position. I feel so sorry for all of those people. Maybe I can... try to find them on my own.
But... I want to point out something today. Ms. Garden changed her mood as if she was possessed. Not like a demon possessing her- I don't know if those exist. I know magic does, so... that could be the source of her sudden change. She acts as if Kahlil wasn't a bad student. I want to ask her again about him and every one of my teachers. I need to note some things down about the nature of this school.
Everyone hates Kahlil for no unknown reason, I don't know if it's the same for everyone else, but... I think magic is doing it.
This can also go with the same case as Wendy felt towards him. Someone or something is making them hate him. Why? What did he do to make them all hate him?
I could ask him since I am contacted with him, but... I want to hear the people first and compare the stories together. I heard the bell ring as it was time to leave this school. I open the doors and walked out under the hot sun. I let out a sigh, waiting for my sister.
Right... that apology.
.
I stared at the faint crowds, noticing that I didn't seem to find her. I pulled out my phone and texted her. [Where are you?] - Dip. She didn't respond right away, but it took several minutes later for her to text back.
[Why?] - Sister.
[Do you not want to walk home today?] - Dip.
[I'm still mad about last week.] - Sister.
[Well, I want to apologize to you about last week.] - Dip.
[Okay.] - Sister.
[In person, so you see how I feel about my mistake.] - Dip.
[Why in person?] - Sister.
[So you can see how sorry I am] - Dip. I feel like she's avoiding me...
[You can just apologize here, and we're all good] - Sister.
[... That is true, but I still want you to see how sorry I was.] - Dip.
[WELL. On one condition. Do not change how my tastes are!] - Sister. I think she's mad now... I don't know. She might be annoyed at me.
[I won't. I just wanted to be a good brother.] - Dip.
[Yeah, right.] - Sister. I put up my phone and walked down the stairs and then the sidewalk. She's still mad from last week. It's been three days, I've already dropped it. I don't know why she has to continue it. I guess I'm not asking her help on this cold case since she's mad. Maybe she'll come around, I hope so.
I got home, giving a wave to my uncles before heading up into my room. I entered it as I jumped from the loud sound. I looked over to see my sister laughing on her bed. I grunted. ``Oh, I thought you were mad?`` I asked, walking over to my bed.
``I am mad! That's what you get for making me angry!`` She shouted.
``You know I'm already over all of this. It's a bit childish.`` I said.
``Excuse me? You almost made my day worse!`` She said, glaring at me.
I put my binder down on my bed and sat next to it. ``Almost? What made it to become better than mines?`` I asked.
``NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS!`` She grunted.
``You're so childish, it's so irritating.`` I said.
``I AM NOT-``
``And stop it with the yelling! I don't deserve this.`` I said. Even if I did, and I was lying to myself.
``You do.`` She said.
``Then I apologize. I apologize for snapping at you.`` I said, scooting back into the wall behind me. I was getting my legs up on the bed.
``You don't seem to be sorry.`` She said, glaring at me still.
``Probably because I got annoyed at your behavior.`` I said.
``Wow. WE'RE BOTH THE SAME AGE. Stop acting like your an adult!`` She grunted.
``We're 18. Which makes us adults, only younger than what an adult actually acts.`` I said, getting pretty tired of this.
``THAT DOESN'T EXPLAIN NOTHING!`` She said.
``Well. Let me say this. I bet you found your crush in which it made your day lightened up a bit. Well, that's good. But continuing this argument from last week isn't going to make things work. I don't even think your here for me even if you yell at me like this. I don't think you care.`` I said.
She paused. She was about to shout, but probably recalled what she said before. ``... yeah...`` Her voice was room-voice now. ``...`` She looked down at the floor, perhaps realizing her mistake. We're both wrong in our own ways, I apologized for snapping, and you still yell at me like I'm the bad guy. Which... I could be... I don't know how other people see me, though.
``But... stop acting like you know everything.`` She said.
``I am sorry that I am more mature than you are. I can't change that fact.`` I said. ``I can't change for who I am. Even if I tried to, I don't think it'll help.``
``Just pretend.`` She grumbled.
``...`` I stared at her. ``...``
``You're smart, aren't you? I'm sure you can do that.`` She said.
I could, I can. If you want me to. ``... Yeah, I can.`` But... why? ... I don't understand.
I tapped my pencil on my desk, staring at the economic worksheet in front of me. It was the next day, and I was sitting in my second-period class. I was thinking, "how would I pretend to myself?" Because that's just how I am. I could only do it around her, maybe stay quiet every time and let Mabel take the attention? I can do that and just sneak behind her back that I won't. But... would I be a bad brother if I do that? I feel like I would be one, I might not do that. I don't want to upset her.
The class ended as I packed up my things into my binder. I picked it up and left the classroom. I was pulled back by my hoodie AGAIN as I was thrown to the ground. ``H-Hey!`` I looked up to see Jason and his crew. They were all glaring me down with these terrifying looks. I felt a shiver and a guilt feeling coming up. Were they going to hurt me after what happened yesterday?
I quickly darted away and stood up to get my binder. I ended up getting rammed by one of the students. I caught my balance and stared at them. ``Why now?`` I asked.
``This is for yesterday, Mason. And trust me when I say this, you are not getting your stuff back ever again.`` Jason said with a cold tone.
``You can't do that! I will try to get it back without even trusting you! I can't trust you anyway!`` I said, walking forward to grab my binder, which was in between Jason and John.
``I don't think so.`` John pushed me. I slipped and fell onto the ground, hitting the back of my head. I blanked out for a minute, not moving an inch. I was so into my mind, trying to wake myself up. I think I was fading in and out, but I did hear some students yell at the bullies.
I force my eyes opened as I slowly sat up, even if I was dizzy. I looked up to the bullies who were running away. I saw a student hand me my binder. Another student push the student away with my stuff as a pair of hands helped me up.
``Are you okay?`` Finally, the voice was fading in. I nodded. The student handed my binder as I grabbed it.
``Thank you.`` I said faintly.
``No problem.`` Said the student who returned my stuff.
``I hate seeing those people pick on other people. It's not right.`` Said another one.
I nodded, wanting to rest. We all heard the bell ring as we departed and left for our classes. That was nice of them, but... I feel like my world is turning upside-down. I can feel my legs stumbling all over the floor, but I force myself to keep straight and hurry to 3rd period. I can't rest now, not until school is over.
I entered in my class as being late. The teacher glared at me for interrupting her lesson. I hurried and took my seat, and stayed quiet. I felt embarrassed now, even with all of this dizziness up in my head. Why can't I just report Jason and John? Well... the schools don't do much against it, they just give them a warning to not do it again. But it doesn't help at all!
I noticed I was falling asleep as I force myself up, trying to pay attention to the lesson. Don't fall asleep, just don't. After this is over, I can go and rest at home.
.
I'm... not surprised but... Mabel and Kahlil didn't say anything about it. Maybe because I kept my guard up so they won't notice. I think Mabel is still mad at me, so... I think she doesn't care about me.
We stood outside of the school, the day was over for them, but not for me. I have work to attend to.
``SO, I have a question.`` My sister would say, snapping me out of what I was doing.
``What is it?`` Kahlil said. I stayed quiet, listening in.
``Is there a reason why you... um. bailed out on Pacifica on that night?`` She asked. Oh. well...
``...`` Kahlil looked away. I could guess he doesn't want to say. I can't tell for him, he has to do this on his own.
``Well?`` She said, having her hands on her hips.
``... I wasn't interested in her.`` He said, looking back at her.
``...Then why did you accept the invitation?`` She asked. Probably to hang out with me afterward, cuz that what happened.
``... I don't know.`` He said, avoiding to look at her again.
``...Your not telling the whole story.`` She said.
``M-`` I stopped myself, staring down at the ground. No one spoke a word during that, Kahlil didn't even say another word. I didn't try to defend him, and I guess my sister was looking a bit aggressive. I looked back up to her expression, getting a dizzy spell from moving my head too fast. Here we go again.
``You just did that for a free invite, right? It seems like it.`` She said.
Oh god. I want to leave and rest, my vision is being weird again. I looked away from them slowly, struggling to stand up straight.
``...no. I didn't. But if you think that way, then I can't stop you.`` He said.
``So, it is true.`` Mabel said with a cold tone.
``Yeah...`` Kahlil said. ``...Are you okay, Mason?``
I looked over to them quickly, making myself dizzier. Great, you had to say my name.
``He's fine.`` Mabel said.
``No. I am not you little-`` I stopped myself from speaking. I avoided looking at them, staring down at the ground as my vision swirls around.
``... You guys are still arguing from last week?`` He said with an annoyed tone.
``I guess since I'm still mad at him.`` Mabel said.
``... You guys... ugh.`` He sounds like he gave up talking. I already dropped this, but she continues anyway. I shook my head and looked up at them.
``I'm sure your fine.`` Mabel said to me. I glared at her. Don't start it, Dipper. Even if you want to so badly, just don't. It's not the best time to do so. Your dizzy, and you need to get home.
``Yeah... I am.`` I mumbled.
``You don't seem to be okay. You're stumbling in your steps.`` Kahlil said. At least somebody cares about me.
``Maybe because he's tired-``
``Stop answering for your brother.`` He said to Mabel with a grunt. He seems to be annoyed with her about this all. But that is what she was doing. I'm surprised she didn't say anything after that. Be good, be smart instead of a little naive sh-t.
``...Yeah.`` I said, agreeing with her. ``I might be since I didn't get enough sleep last night.`` Why did I lie?
``Were you up thinking about the wonders of when your going to get a date?`` Mabel asked, smirking.
``...M-maybe...`` I mumbled, pretending to look embarrassed. Though... I feel like I'm embarrassed or blushing... I don't know.
``...Okay then.`` I heard Kahlil said. I think it worked.
``Well, lets head home, I know I got alot of homework to do.`` Mabel said, frowning.
``Yeah.`` I said. We both began to walk together, leaving Kahlil in his confusion. Once we had a far distance from him, my sister to turned me. ``Let's keep that up.`` She whispered.
``...`` I looked away from her and slowly nodded. What the ... I don't know what she's doing or planning.
.
I walked down the stairs, telling my uncles I will be walking there. I know they tried to convince me I should ride in a car, but... I just want to relax in the environment before I head into work, at least Uncle Ford understands. Uncle Stan, on the other hand, kind of does. Infact, he doesn't care. That's fine. I will just be walking there and back.
And yes, I did take a rest to get rid of my dizziness. Although I still have it, it's not bad as it was after school. I headed out, saying goodbye and walking along the jungle. I halted, hearing a faint voice. I looked up and over at the trees. ``...`` Don't answer to strangers, Dipper.
-don't you want a rest?-
``... Wait.`` I looked back at the trees, staring it down. ``Is that you... Kahlil?`` I asked. The voice seem to be calm and collected, although I heard a faint creepy tone from it.
-come on, i'm your resting grounds. life out there is tough, and soon it may crumble down to your feet.-
``... this isn't...`` I trailed off, feeling a gust of wind attempting to push me towards the jungle. What-
-come on. you know its true. it will soon kill you.-
-so come, rest along with the others where they escaped the life they once had. i promise i will take care of you.-
Dipper, what are you doing?! I was watching my own body move on its own and headed into the jungle. I need to get to work!
Why can't I control my movements?!
End of Chapter 17
New Uploading Schedule!
I will be uploading chapters every 10 days, shorting it from being 14 days(2 weeks).
Why did I change it? It's because I'm keeping up with this story behind the scenes. With this, I can focus on other projects I have in storage. Then again I could say, I didn't want to wait 2 weeks to upload the next chapter on ends.
So yeah, I hope you guys are enjoying the story so far.
It's been hard trying to fit things into places, but soon it will be cleared up once we pass the depts of Dipper's problems.
Anyways, Have a good day and see you in the next chapter!
