A/N: Ok, first chapter! Sorry it's taken ages, I've just been really busy. But updates should be more frequent now (fingers crossed) and I can't deny that I've enjoyed writing this one up.
Anywho a special thanks to JustaFriend for asking me to write this! I honestly would've never thought to come up with a story with this setup without your prompt, so you can say that this story is for you in a way. Consider it a gift of sorts and a way of saying thanks. After all your reviews often cheer me up.
Now, this is where the story really begins I guess and it'll switch between Courtney and Heather's perspectives. But yeah, apart from that I don't have anything to say (and apologies for putting up the wrong chapter for the prologue, I've fixed it now).
Well till next time,
D.L.D
~Heather~
"Would you believe she slept with him?"
"I know such a whore and after getting licked by that cat too!"
"I bet he got some sort of disease from it..."
"Yeah, like totally. Also did you know it was Michelle's boyfriend that she slept with?"
"Well no shit Katie, that's why Heather's a whore."
I roll my eyes as I hear the dumb twins gossiping about me once again. Katie and Sadie, the best friends since Grade school, are yet another example of the bubble brains I have to deal with daily. And by bubble brains, I mean people who don't think for themselves. Hence the term bubble brain, as common sense seems to disappear as quick as a bubble can be popped. It's like no-one in this school has their own brain these days - or should I say own thought process? Whatever. You get the idea, everyone here is more or less brain dead or irrelevant.
You can choose which.
Basically how things run here is that I am the big bad bitch in town and everyone else is scared of me or thinks that they can compete. Lebomba and her ragtag group are a prime example of my competition here. They all think they're great, but really I'm better. I'm known for being cold and ruthless. Cruel and bitchy. For doing whatever is necessary to win. I do as I please and I don't care who I hurt to do it. Beth can tell you that. I ditched her ass last year and now she's a nobody. A freak.
In short I'm loved, respected, adored; No-one dares to cross me unless they're in the mood to be ruined or are just plain crazy. I walk into these halls daily to hear some dumb trio or group talking about what I'd done. Usually they accompany their famous names with it too. Bitch, slag, whore, witch...Oh there are so many! But what's funniest is that they're all used to describe me, so even if people hate me I'm still known.
So technically I still win.
"You're disgusting, you know that. Sleeping with Michelle's boyfriend of all people."
I stop walking, frowning as bull dyke Eva blocks my path. Her broad shoulders and thick biceps block my view from what's ahead and I can see the scowl and look of contempt on her face.
Eva's known for her anger issues and more masculine ways. Like Jo, one of her 'friends', she's often at the gym getting more and more muscular until they finally achieve their goal of looking like men. It's amazing really. I'm so happy for her that I support it and she has the audacity to be bitchy about it.
Talk about ungrateful.
However Eva's one of the few people who dare to challenge me and of course she brings up this weekend's incident. The one that's spreading like wildfire.
"Just get out of my way," I attempt to push past but she blocks me firmly. "What do you want lesbo? I'm not kissing you!"
A round of laughter surrounds us and Eva growls, her face reddening as her fists clench in anger and annoyance. Oh, she's getting angry. Too bad I won't be there to deal with it.
Working fast, I slink into the crowd and get to the other side of the corridor just as Eva explodes. She ends up punching the locker, a huge dent left in some poor nerd's door. Bummer. The thing couldn't even stay on the hinges anymore, the metal falling to the floor. That must've been a hard punch. However Eva easily removes her fist, no signs of pain shown as she angrily sulks off into the opposite direction to me.
How stupid. You'd think she'd go after who pissed her off.
Happy at my work, I turn on my heel and head towards my locker. I needed to get a few things from it before class, oh and get my much needed notes on my plan for Goth Girl Gwen. She thought it was funny to post a video of Bruiser, my family's cat, licking my lips while I slept.
It was...humiliating. However I'm going to rise back from it - and all will pay.
Smirking I open my locker, the combination like second nature. The door swings open and I grab my Binder of Secrets, similar to the Burn Book from Mean Girls but way more real and dangerous. It contained all of the dirt and info I've gathered from my sources over the summer and school year, all of them game changing with certain students in my year. It was my key item for staying on the top of the school pyramid. My source of power. Something I'd need if I wanted to get back at Gwen.
A twisted grin sits on my lips as I spot Courtney across the hall. Boring brown Courtney. Courtney had tan skin and mocha brown hair. Even her eyes were brown (shows how basic she is). However basic A-type Courtney wasn't always her uptight and boring self. In fact she was useful to have as an asset. Really useful.
Right now she was with her boyfriend, Duncan. The typical juvenile delinquent with his green mohawk, rugged look and multiple piercings. He used to hit on me during our first year here and I immediately shut that down. Guys like him were a definite no-no, let alone massive jerks. But for some reason Courtney kept that fleabag around. The two had been on and off for a while now and so everyone was used to their crazy (and highly toxic) relationship.
However I have news that she doesn't. News that involves her boyfriend kissing - well I'd better not spill the goods. I need this to convince Courtney to help me take down Gwen. She's been a little bit too friendly with said Goth since this year started and I need her scheming (and image to blame) when I take down Gothball.
A small chuckle leaves me as the bell rings, signalling the first lesson of the day. Algebra. The only lesson where I sit next to Courtney and have a chance at getting her to help.
"Courtney!" I nudge the brunette beside me with my nail file. "Psst Courtney!"
We were in Algebra, the teacher droning on about something nonexistent while half the class slept away at the back. I could've been one of them, but unfortunately I'd been placed at the front right next to Ugly Beth and Ms CIT-of-the-year. One of the worst seats on my whole timetable, however I somehow make do. Most probably because Beth does my homework for me with the promise that I'll lend her my accessories.
Note of advice, I only give her the tacky ones.
"What do you want Heather?" Courtney sighed as she rolled her eyes, clearly pissed. She had a whole page written up already, numbers and letters mixed in a confusing jumble. "You don't usually find the time to talk to me during Algebra."
"Um rude," I make an effort to frown, showing my offense as I continue to file my nails. However I continue unfazed, as if I were introducing the topic of gossip. "Can't a girl give another some advice?"
"What like how to become a whore?" Courtney scoffed, going back to her work.
I scowled at this knowing that I was losing her. Soon she'd stop listening all together and let me drone on until the lesson ended. I couldn't have that happening. Not yet. I needed to convince her, or at least 'warn' her of the news I have. Otherwise my plan will go up in flames.
"More like that you're boyfriend isn't being loyal," I answer, my tone simple as I examine my nails. "Rumors are that he's cheated."
I spot Courtney tense beside me, her brow crinkling just the tiniest bit. Matched with that frown, I knew she was listening now. Hooked. She had taken the bait and now all I had to do was slowly reel her in. Real slowly.
"Yeah right, Duncan wouldn't do that," She answered in a wavering tone, confidence trying to hide her uncertainty as she chuckled. But I saw it. I saw it as clear as a glass of water. Courtney wasn't so sure that her Darling Dunky was being loyal. A crack in her snobbish facade.
"That's what they all say," I shrug simply, toying with a strand of hair. "Remember Addison and Ray? They're still trying to patch it up...and I heard Addison might end it for good."
A sharp exhale and I knew that my words had gotten to her. Closing her eyes, Courtney shut her book and turned to face me. Her face was calm and expression clear, but I could tell my words had bugged her. She had suspected that Duncan was up to something since last summer, however no-one had confirmed it. No-one had even hinted towards it. The whole thing was kept airtight and separate from Courtney. However I just hinted towards it and told her of what could follow.
"And why should I believe you?" She spoke slowly, clearly, as if trying to convince me as well as herself.
"Oh you don't have to," I laugh as I open my book and begin to focus on the crusty equations on the board. "The truth is in the evidence 'hun."
~Courtney~
The bell rang and I couldn't have left class any faster. I swear I moved in record time, packing away my books and rushing out of the class in the break time crowd before Heather could even hold me back to talk more.
Ha, more.
I didn't even know how much longer I could last in that two hour lesson, let alone an extra twenty minutes! My mind was swimming in her words and I was subconsciously drowning within it. Sinking lower and lower as I struggled to get to the surface. The sound of the bell had never been more of a relief.
"Hey Court, you ok?" I bumped into Gwen, the goth looking confused at my flustered expression.
It was odd to see the normally detached Gwen looked so concerned. It didn't really match with her teal highlighted hair and overall Gothic look. However I probably looked like I'd just seen a serial killer. Maybe even a living mute (mutated person, not someone who refuses to speak). So she had a reason to look concerned. But who could blame me for reacting the way I did?
Heather was spouting all sorts of things about Duncan cheating and how she knows that it happened. She even told me that my suspicions were correct, and that perhaps Duncan had been lying when I confronted him on it. But I didn't want to believe that. Not yet anyway. I know Duncan wouldn't lie to me. Not about that anyway. He couldn't. He said he loves me and I know he does.
I'm certain he does.
"Um...earth to Courtney?" Gwen waved a hand in front of my face, her features twisted in worry.
I blink as I spot a pale hand pass in front of my eyes snapping me out of my mantra. The mantra Heather caused.
"Oh..um yeah, I'm fine," I say quickly, catching my breath as I realise I was out of it. Did I just run from the classroom? I had to have done that right? I wouldn't be on the other side of the school if I'd walked. But why did I run? It wasn't like Heather wanted to fight me or anything, just spout more stupid ideas about Duncan being unfaithful. Ideas that I knew for a fact were false. But then again Heather rarely lies...she only twists the truth to fit her wishes. "Gwen, can I ask you something?"
"Oh, yeah - sure," She was caught off guard, but smiled nonetheless. It comforted me to see that. To see that she was calm and collected while I was panicking about something Heather of all people told me about. Something that could easily be a rumor or a lie. But still I had to check.
"Well...is Duncan cheating on me?" I ask in a quiet voice, the words sounding more stupid as they come out. I begin to fiddle with my hands as we walk, not looking at her. "I know he'd probably tell you since you're his best friend - and I won't hold you against it if he is - but I just wanna know."
The goth tilted her head, looking at me before a smile made its way onto her face.
"What kind of bull are you spouting?" Gwen laughed, dark eyes filled with amusement. She puts an arm around my shoulder, guiding me towards the courtyard. "You're joking right?" She frowned at my silence and worried expression. Then sighed.
"Duncan's crazy about you. Courtney," Gwen smiled, though there was a sadness to her eyes. It was quickly shaken away though, amusement filling them instead. "He wouldn't cheat on you for shit. Whoever told you otherwise is just trying to get into your head - or is being a bitch again~."
"Probably the latter," I say quickly.
"Yep probably that," Gwen nodded, smile still on her face. She then looked at me, something deeper and more thoughtful passing through her face again before she shook her head. "But...if it was a certain hag I wouldn't mind getting Leshawna and starting a fight over it. You know us girls have gotta have each other's backs."
I smile at her words, glad to have made friends with someone I would've never thought of approaching before meeting Duncan. I had always seen Gwen as that one weird kid in the corner while growing up. She was never someone I thought of befriending, or even sharing interests with, but over the course of the past year I've become pretty tight with her. We're more like sisters than anything at this point, and I have to say I'm glad Duncan made the push to make us friends. Without his input we probably would still be strangers.
"Thanks, Gwen," I say it honestly, glad that my nerves were now calmed.
"No prob, just make sure to speak before accusing anyone," Gwen warned, her smile a little more serious and dark. "You know how you get sometimes."
"Yep," I nod and sigh just as we head outside.
My thoughts may have been calmed thanks to Gwen, but Heather's comments still lingered and the longer they stayed the more they felt true. After all Heather rarely lies...
~Heather~
"Ok Tyler, here's how it's going to go," I have my arms folded, hips jutted out at an angle as I look at the wannabe jock before me.
He was my source on the whole Duncan cheating on Courtney fiasco. In fact he had seen it and gotten evidence that couldn't be passed off as fake. After all Tyler didn't have a reason to separate anyone, he was neutral in all of the drama. But that was mainly because he was stupid and let's face it no-one really wanted to talk to the clumsy guy. He couldn't even run around a track without falling over and I've seen plenty of five-year-olds do better. Trust me they have.
"How's what gonna go?" He looked nervous, like a mouse trapped in a cat's paw. He knew that there was no way out of this, no way to say no.
"Well listen and I'll say," I frown, slightly annoyed at his idiocy. This was always the tough part with my sources, they always were so dumb and brainless. Half the time I had to show them what common sense was and even then they didn't get it. "You're gonna tell Courtney what you saw Gwen and Duncan doing. Ok?"
"You mean when they made out - "
"Yes, when they made out!" I growl, throwing my arms in the air from exasperation. "That's why I came to you in the first place, Tyler!"
The jock gulped, clearly frightened of what I'd do now that I was angry. Really angry. I heaved in deep breaths as I clenched my fists, knowing that there was no point in being violent like all the animals in my year. It'd be better to hold it in and fuel it through the words I use. That'd really motivate Tyler to get the job right.
Yes, I'll use my words.
"Just go and do it, or I'll make sure that blonde bitch of yours won't go on another date with you," I say the words softly through grit teeth, and I can spot the reaction through the corners of my eyes. I can see that he is taking me seriously, especially from how he's suddenly gone silent. Afraid to speak.
Tyler than glances to the side, expression awkward.
"...Should I go do it now?"
"Yes!" I seethe, throwing my bag in the direction of his head.
It misses as he dashes out of the door, quickly making his escape from my annoyance. Good. Any longer and I think I would've exploded. Possibly even thrown a punch like those morons on the sports teams.
Exhaling, I recollect myself and leave the room. My bag is now hanging off my shoulder, the leather slightly scuffed from where I'd thrown it. Great, another designer bag gone to waste because of these bozos...
~Courtney~
I sigh as I finally find some peace a quiet. After such an eventful day, mainly of trying to forget about Heather's words, I'd decided to head to the music room to play my violin. Luckily for me it was empty and now I was just standing in the middle of it, playing my violin to an invisible audience.
I was playing Schindler's List's Theme, the heavily melancholic music moving me in a way that was odd. In fact I could feel the tears forming, but not falling. Not yet. Instead they clung to my eyes in a terrible way, causing my chest to ache as I continued to play.
That was when Tyler came in, an apologetic look on his face as I set aside my violin.
Wiping my face, I turn to look at him wondering why on earth Tyler would come here of all places. The music room where only the music nerds/freaks head after school. But from the expression on his face I know that the answer to that was already there for me. It was written in the way that he seemed pained to even see me right now, his own eyes reflecting a sort of empathy you feel for someone that you have to bear bad news to.
Unfortunate news.
"Courtney...I have some news," His voice breaks the silence, echoing around the empty practice room. A hand comes to scratch his head, eyes staring at the floor more than me.
"News?" I narrow my eyes at the dopey jock, feeling uncertain of what this 'news' could be. Tyler wasn't one to keep up in the grapevine after all. He was more the type to be oblivious to things and find out late. A late-comer as I called them. "What type of news?"
Tyler paused at this, glancing away as he anxiously rubbed at his arm.
"Bad news," His voice traveled towards me, low and seemingly regretful as he looked back towards me.
I looked straight back, my face confused and yet apprehensive. Like I said Tyler wasn't the sort of person who delivered news to people. Tyler was the sort of person who did as people like Heather commanded. People who were simple-minded and similar to sheep. Too stuck on belonging and following the flock to see that they were being led to a slaughter house.
Cattle.
And so I was scared of what he was going to tell me. Scared of what it meant because I know that Tyler wouldn't lie. Even if Heather told him to, he'd still stick to the truth.
"Just tell me the news," I turn away from him, picking up my violin.
If this was nothing too serious, then I'd go back to playing it and trying to drown out the doubt in my mind. But if it was then...then I don't know what I'd do. Maybe I'd just play my violin and try to pretend that it didn't happen. Try to drown it out with the music that I was playing. But I don't even know if I could do that. Denial seemed like the most obvious way I'd go after all. I always seemed to slip into it when confronted like that.
But how would I really react? What would I really do?
"Ok..." Tyler let out a sigh, a hand coming back to his head. "This isn't easy to say, but...Duncan's cheating on you. I saw it happen this summer, he and Gwen - they..."
He stopped when I dropped my violin, the instrument shattering into wooden splinters on the floor. The sound echoed and only emphasized the look of rage upon my face; the monstrous snarl I wore as I held back the tears and instead ball my fists. One of them were pointing at Tyler as I directed my anger towards him.
"You're lying..." I say the words softly, barely escaping as I feel the tears brimming. They form in clusters, falling as the anger consumes me. "YOU'RE LYING!"
A music stand is thrown in his direction, the object clattering as Tyler made a dash towards the door. A lucky dash that resulted in him escaping form my wrath as I tore apart the practice room. Furniture, sheet music and even other instruments were left to my mercy. A mercy that was blinded by red hot anger and tears. Tears that flooded from empty eyes as my heart ached and throbbed.
It hurt - no it burned. It burned to know that someone I had trusted - someone I had loved - betrayed that and lied to me. Openly deceived. With no one other than one of my closest friends! A friend that they had suggested I begin a friendship with! Someone that wouldn't have been a part of my life without them.
And that is what hurt me the most. The feeling of the cold deception, like a knife carving deep into my own heart. So cruel and unexpected that I found myself crying on my knees; Knees that were buried in fractured violin pieces; Pieces that splintered my skin and pricked my legs. My hands weren't in a much better state either. The fingers were cut or damaged, having obviously been injured when trashing the room.
But I didn't care. Why would I? As my heart had been smashed into pieces, just like the violin that was now all over the floor.
And I knew exactly who to blame for it.
~Heather~
I roll my eyes as I file my nails, waiting for Courtney to be done with her little meltdown in the practice room. As predicted rage took over before anything else, and now she was most likely plotting of ways to get back at Gwen and Duncan. She was hurt. Damaged. Vulnerable. The perfect mindset for me to control and exploit.
But why is she taking so fucking long? I'm pretty sure trashing a room doesn't take a full hour.
Releasing an annoyed sigh, I lean against the locker as I look at the practice room door. It'd been pretty quiet in there for a while now. All the crashing, smashing and banging had stopped and now only silence remained. A deathly silence when considering how Courtney was just behaving. Perhaps she'd killed herself out of heartache. Poor thing. Such a weak and innocent person to die in the name of love and all that crap.
However if Ms CIT did commit suicide, I'd have to find someone else to help me. Someone else that would be useful and honestly that would be a pain with all the morons in this school. As a result I had to make sure that Courtney didn't die. After all she was key to this plan I've been cooking for a while.
Mentally grumbling, I make my way closer to the practice room. Through the glass I could make out Courtney getting her things together, bag and coat already in place. However her face was slightly reddened, tear streaks smeared across her cheeks. Her nose was red, traces of snot evident from the way she was sniffling. Let's not even mention her hair though, it was slightly frizzy from whatever she had been doing.
But that did mean that Basic Courtney wasn't dead, so that's a thumbs up I guess.
Moving away from the practice room, I lean against the lockers once more and wait for her to leave. It takes a few more minutes for her to emerge, but when she does I'm ready and raring to go with my offer.
"Well, looks like I've lucked out today," I can't help but grin as I approach the CIT. "You're just the person I was looking for."
As expected, she frowned at this. Her expression wasn't too peachy, in fact it offered complete venom and distaste. But despite that she managed to speak to me, her voice surprisingly civil albeit showing traces of hatred.
"What do you want Heather?" She turned to face me, bag resting on her shoulder.
Smirking, I can't help but feel victorious as I know she's fallen into place. Fallen exactly where I want her to be in order to help me fulfill my plan.
"It's just like I said earlier, Courtney," The words come out innocent, friendly, as I approach her and place a hand on her free shoulder. "I only want to help."
And with those words I knew that she was well and truly hooked.