All We Are

by Ariela246

Eddward frankly was a very mysterious guy. There were people in school who respected him, most, however, feared his intimidating presence. Little Kevin had no idea how Eddward had gotten so much power in his possession, but he hoped someone would step up and give him a piece of his own medicine. [REV!KEVEDD] SLOW BURN(Warning: Graphic Violence & Self Harm! Please read with caution)

52. Chapter 52

So it wasn't a may or june update hehe...but the chapter is finally finished. Although it takes me a long time to finish these chapters it actually allows me to take in the story and find new inspiration. I actually really like this particular chapter, and it helped develop the story in ways it wasn't originally going to. This story is actually longer and quite different from the original lol. This chapter opens the door to a road for Kevin to possibly travel through and I love how it resembles reg. Kev in the strength of their characters. Of course, Kevin will continue to grow as well as the rest of the characters. Character development is something I LOVE writing and wholeheartedly believe it makes or breaks stories.

*ALSO if you are triggered by mentions of abuse, violence, suicide, cutting ect... please do not read this entire story...

So without further ado...please enjoy the chapter.

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There was a silence throughout the entirety of Peach Creek High. Something had happened once again and it would soon be known throughout the entire student body. The latest victim however, was not Kevin's main concern at the moment. As he wondered throughout the crowded halls to enter the natatorium he found the place to be empty. With concern he took a set by the benches waiting for the bell to ring.

Nazz had arrived alone this morning, quite unusual as Eddward was now the one who picked her up every morning and even dropped her home with the convenience that they lived in the same area of town. She had told Kevin the boy was not answering his phone and before he decided to rush off to see what was wrong Ed stopped him. "You've been missing too many classes, Kevin…the principal will call your dad sooner or later" he had told him. "He might just be home sick again...we can go after school to check up on him"

With that Ed and Nazz headed off to their first classes while Kevin decided to mentally prepare himself for the day away from the crowd. The natatorium, he found, was something like a safe haven for him. He liked to imagine the school's mighty shark diving into the water and swimming laps…Eddward always seemed the most at peace when he was swimming. When he heard the harsh ring of the bell, he got up and touched the water for good luck before making his way out hoping nothing was horribly wrong with the teen. However, these days…it was hard to think positively.

…

Nazz waved goodbye for the mean time as Kevin rushed out of school after his 6th class was over. She and Ed still had one more to go and would walk over to Eddward's after. She made her way to her locker to grab her coat as they would leave right after. She felt safe in the crowded hallways but knowing…there was someone out there wanting to harm her…possibly even kill her was horrifying. She didn't want to admit it to anyone but she was suffering from paranoia. It was hard to sleep and often times caved in to the insomnia and anxiety that she would stay up looking out her window into the darkness of town and listen to all the little quiet sounds. What if he was right around the corner and looking at her in that moment? Who was this person? Why now?

Feeling her breathing picking up Nazz gripped her bag tightly and took a deep breath in. She noticed the hallway to her locker was emptier and she stood a moment hesitant but decided to continue. She quickly opened the locker and grabbed her coat and scarf. As she closed the locker she heard quick footsteps and a panicked breath. Her eyes terrified looking to see a small kid, most likely a freshman turn the corner running and utterly scared. She knew what was happening.

Of course the J's would go after other kids if she and Kevin were off limits, and in that sense she felt guilty. Without thinking she grabbed the boys arms, who looked at her with betrayal but ushered him to follow her. As they ran down the next hallway she dragged him upstairs to a nearby empty storage room she knew he would be safe. Glaring at every passing student she finally ushered the boy inside the room and told him to be quiet and wait until they were gone.

She closed the door and looked around hearing footsteps coming up the stairs and once again looked around the hallways to the witnessing students who scattered to their respective classrooms deciding to ignore the event. She breathed in and began walking away pretending nothing had happened.

"Nazz!" Jimmy's voice was far too familiar and she froze with chills running down her spine.

"What do you want?" she thanked the heavens her voice was steady

"Don't you have class downstairs? What are you doing here?" Jimmy's dark suspicious voice spoke out. Johnny was right behind him looking around for the boy.

"What does it matter to you? I'm heading to class" She began to walk away once more when Jimmy took hold of her arm. She noticed light reddish marks on his arm that made him wince with the pressure of simply grabbing her. Those marks…looked awfully like someone had deeply bitten him…In that moment she stopped breathing.

"S-something wrong?" She questioned him trying her damn best not to let fear show on her face.

Jimmy gave her a dark look…a familiar dark look and she knew that he knew she had seen the marks.

Johnny stepped up from behind pointing at her "Just because you're Sam's bitch doesn't mean you can interrupt with our fun, you cunt!"

"Who is my bitch now?" an angered voiced called from the stairs and they all turned to look watching Sam slowly walk up the stairs with hands in his jeans pocket. His dark blue leather jacket contrasted his dark eyes and added to his threatening glare as he looked onto the scene in front of him.

Jimmy immediately let go of the girl's arm with one final squeeze leaving a light red mark from the tightness of it. Sam slowly walked up and noticed the mark on her wrist, he breathed in staring at the mark. "Johnny…" he called out with an unspoken demand to the other who looked at him in hesitance.

Johnny grabbed Jimmy's shoulder turning him around and punching him hard on the face. Jimmy fell on the floor with a growl holding his blooded nose in pain. Sam looked up at Johnny and the boy looked down at the floor "I'm sorry…Nazz"

Nazz watched speechless at the raw power Sam held against these teens. Was this why Eddward was so afraid of him in the beginning? Sam had a power that made everyone afraid of him and in that moment Nazz was too.

"Off with you two, I don't want to see your faces for the rest of the day" Sam spoke angrily looking down at Jimmy who was looking back up at him with a horrifying glare. Finally they both left heading back downstairs.

Nazz relaxed as she watched them leave her sight and jumped a little Sam took a hold of her arm. "Does it hurt?" he asked quietly.

She looked down at the mark now clearing away "No…" she let the boy look at it a moment "Thanks by the way"

"No need love" Sam let her arm go hearing the bell ring "Come I'll walk you to class"

The boy peek out from the room and she gave him a smile. Sam simply nodded and the boy ran off. With that Nazz followed quietly behind Sam when something occurred to her "Hey…can I ask something"

"What is it?"

"Eddward isn't here today, did you—" She started when he turned to her.

"No I had nothing to do with it, it happens sometimes…he's fine" Sam turned back walking again downstairs.

"What do you mean it happens sometimes" Nazz questioned

"Well it's not my place to say really, but he has what I'd call episodes sometimes…he's dealing with some issues is all" Sam placed an arm around the girl.

"Episodes? What happened?" Nazz looked up worriedly.

"Not to worry sweetheart, I'm sure it's passed by now. There's someone in town at the moment, someone he hates. Hopefully their meeting is over and our dear shark will be back tomorrow" Sam patted her shoulder.

"Who's the person he hates?" Nazz continued

"You ask too many questions love" he smiled down at her "Don't worry about it. Eddward might speak out but give him time…"

"What are you even talking about…ugh you've made me confused and worried now" Nazz pushed away from the other hold.

Sam laughed and pulled her back in leaning down to give her a kiss on her wrist where the mark had been "Run along to class now princess, I'm sure Kevin will make it better"

"It's scary how you know everything…" She mumbled out making the blonde teen laugh

"I wish I knew everything" he answered her watching as she gave him a hesitant smile and walking inside the classroom.

…

The freckled teen drove his bike through the west side of town with a frown yet he was anxious to see the other. He remembered that the boy hadn't replied to his message from last night and it concerned him. But again, this wasn't the first time something like this happened. It wouldn't hurt to check nonetheless.

He parked his bike next to Eddward's car and walked up to the door knocking first. After a moment he listened closely and knocked again "Eddward?" he called out. When nothing happened he looked around trying to remember where Eddward kept his hidden key. There was a heavy pot with a plant on the edge of the porch and he pushed the leaves aside looking for the key hidden slightly in the dirt.

Kevin cleaned the key and opened the door to find the house quite silent and ominous. The day was a cloudy one and it sure made the house much darker than it should be at 2 in the afternoon. "Eddward!" he called out again closing the door and taking his shoes off. He walked into the living room noticing the room a bit messed up with some pillow on the ground and an empty wine glasses on the coffee table…though there was another glass shattered by the wall where the portrait of Eddward's mother hanged.

He felt his heartbeat rise "Eddward are you here!" Kevin rushed upstairs noticing the open door to the office room that was always locked…the office room that Eddward NEVER let anyone look into… Some papers were tossed on the room's floor, a lamp tipped over and the computer chair turned directly facing the door. It seems as if there was a presence lingering there, as if someone had sat on the chair and left an obscure manifestation behind.

"Eddward" Kevin called again opening the door to the teen's room. He felt a sense of relief seeing the boy fast asleep on the bed. This moment of relief was soon over as he saw an open pill bottle next on the boys beside…with fear he rushed over and grabbed it looking at them. They were sleeping pills, but how many had he taken? Kevin felt a flash of his panic attack creep in and he moved over to sit beside the teen "Eddward…" Kevin shook the teen "Eddward!" His voice choked out with fear then held his breath when he saw the boy's chest rise and had made a small noise of annoyance. "Thank goodness" Kevin sighed out with teary eyes. He looked down at the sleeping boy and wondered why the need to take the pills…perhaps it was his nightmares? But what about the condition his house was in? This wasn't Eddward, and the only other time he had seen this house be in a state was that one summer night when he found the boy utterly drunk.

Kevin lowered himself laying his head to Eddward's chest and listened to the teen's heartbeat and it was then he smelled something he hadn't in a long time. Nicotine…

He rose up leaning close to the boy's mouth and smelled again, it was definitely Nicotine. Kevin frowned wondering what had happened. "Eddward…" he whispered sadly, and then it struck him… terrified he pulled the covers away looking down at Eddward's arms…

There was a bandage wrapped around his right wrist…Kevin sucked in a breath unable to look away…why…why again. "Eddward what did you do?" Kevin looked back up distraught.

He wasn't going to cry…but damn did he want to…Kevin covered the boy again and grabbing his injured arm and holding it close to his chest as he curled up next to Eddward. He would be there when the boy woke up.

…

Nazz had insisted on stopping by the grocery store and buying somethings for Eddward, women…Ed thought carrying two of the heaviest bags filled with fruit and veggies. Ed and Nazz walked up to the house and the boy checked to see if it was open, thankfully it was. "Eddward! Kevin?" Ed called out once inside.

"We brought some stuff to make dinner!" Nazz announced taking her shoes off and walking into the kitchen.

Ed stopped looking at the state the living room was in. He put down the bags and walked upstairs "Eddward?"

Nazz curious followed and gasped looking upstairs worried…Episodes, Sam had told her. "Kevin?" she called out making her way upstairs and stopping next to Ed who was staring inside the office room completely shocked and fearful.

"Damn it…" Ed hissed out in anger. He closed the office door and they walked into the boy's room finding Kevin and Eddward curled up sleeping together.

Nazz let out a sigh of relief "they're fine" she whispered out and looked up noticing Ed's tense state. He was looking onto Eddward with a twisted expression…she couldn't tell if it reflected anger or sadness…maybe it was a combination of both. She followed his gaze and saw that Kevin was holding onto Eddward's bandaged wrist. It was filled with dry blood and it was then she saw all the faint scars running up both his arms.

She quietly gasped holding onto Ed's arm she felt like she would fall. Ed turned to her and grabbed her by the waist taking her out of the room and closing the door behind him. "H-How long" she breathed out with tears in her eyes.

"I don't know…It's been going on for a long time" Ed looked at her with a frown. "He'll…He'll be fine"

"Like hell he is!" she hissed out "He's…oh my god…he's been cutting this entire time? And you guys knew about it! He needs help!" she cried out.

"Nazz calm down…" Ed grabbed her by the shoulders. With a nod he directed her to follow him downstairs. Quietly they walked back into the kitchen where she took a seat staring at the shattered glass in the next room. "Why" she asked.

Ed stood beside her looking onto the portrait of the dark haired women staring back. "He has…a lot of personal issues to deal with. I know he started cutting before he met me and Eddy but…" he trailed off remembering the conversation he had had with Kevin months prior "I didn't know we had made it worse" he clenched his fist.

"Worse?" Nazz looked up at him scared

"Kevin…Kevin told me Eddward has attempted…" Ed looked down tears forming his arms crossed extremely tightly at his guilt.

"Attempted…" Nazz looked with an open mouth "oh my…he's attempted suicide!" she felt like she was suffocating. Just what had made this boy spiral…"Ed!" she stood "Eddward needs professional help! What can you or Kevin do?"

"We can't force him!" Ed looked down at her blue eyes "The only thing we can do is be there for him, if and when he wants to get help, we'll be there to support him. But right now he doesn't want it"

"But he's…he's hurting Ed! This isn't healthy!" Nazz looked up at him in anger.

"Look, Kevin has learned this by now and you should too" Ed looked at her a bit crossed "Depression isn't something that is going to be cured overnight. He's not sad…he's in an immense pain that none of us can ever imagine. It's something that is consuming him and it might not be something that is ever cured…I know it might not make sense but all he needs from us is to be here for him. To show him he's not alone. Thank goodness he wants to fight back. Hopefully one day it will get better for him, and thankfully he has found someone who will unconditionally stay by his side and help him get better. But there are some dark things in his life that just…keep haunting him." He looked over to the wine glass "I made a huge mistake once…" Ed looked down on her with tears flooding his face "I'm not going to make the same mistake again…I know he needs help, I really do but he's not mentally prepared for that just yet. He needs time and he needs us"

The blonde haired girl looked up at Ed feeling his hurt and she wrapped his arms around his frame. "Ok…I understand" was all she whispered out.

…

There was familiar warmth encompassing his side and Eddward leaned onto it. Suddenly he felt it tightly around his arm and a sting of soreness. Lightly blinking he saw his injured hand with dry blood. He could hear and feel the screaming, the anger…and the hurt once more as he watched the person leave his house once more. Why was it like that every time? Why was he filled with emptiness and a desire to die every time the person looked down on him with those dark disgusted eyes? It was as if he wasn't a person anymore…like he was a deformed demon of some kind. Perhaps he was…

He opened his eyes once more upon hearing a sigh next to him. His eyes met with the sight of a freckled face sleeping next to him. Kevin. Eddward felt his heart drop as he saw the boy was cradling his arm. He leaned forward touching his forehead to Kevin's "Sorry…" he whispered.

It was as if those voices in his nightmares had become his puppeteer. He wasn't in control of his thoughts r emotions after the person had left. He was filled with anger and sorrow. He hated them for doing this to him…he hated himself for giving in. It must be his own fault for the person to look at him the way they did. Why else would they? Eddward wish Kevin had been there to hold him… to tell him it was alright. Perhaps he was being too needy or too selfish.

What happened next was a blur. A familiar state of haziness and it terrified him as he watched the red ooze out from his body…he wanted to do it again, perhaps go deeper. The freckled teen's cry had stopped him…As Eddward sat in the bathroom that night he could hear Kevin's crying and he knew what he had done would only upset the teen. That had been his grounding. It was as if he had woken up and pulled the strings away from his puppeteer, and he was able to stop.

Now that Kevin was actually here and had seen his doing he couldn't help but be upset. He felt Kevin stir and open his eyes catching the smaller teen's green eyes looking up at him. "You're awake" Kevin's sleepy voice cracked a little.

Eddward smiled "Yeah…"

"Hm" Kevin closed his eyes again leaning closer to the touch of their foreheads. With a breath Kevin whispered out "how are you feeling?"

"…better" Eddward closed his eyes too not wanting to see Kevin's expression.

"Ok" Kevin lightly squeezed Eddward's arm "…Do…Do you want to talk?"

Eddward frowned hesitant in his answer "Not now"

Kevin opened his eyes sadly and looked to see Eddward avoiding his gaze "Ok…" he decided to lean closer. He placed his head under Eddward's and intertwined his legs with the others. Kevin let go of the boy's arm and wrapped this arms around the other's waist.

Eddward could feel the immense warmth from the teen and felt overwhelmed with the comforting action. He felt tears building up at the corners of his eyes and wrapped his arms around the freckled teen grateful he was there. If there was a god, he thanked them for the compassion and patience of the boy in his arms.

Kevin flushed at the touch of the swimmer's slender fingers on the small uncovered skin of his waist. He closed his eyes focusing on the hand pressed tightly to his back and forced himself not to lean onto it. He felt so much comfort being able to feel the teen's chest rise and fall with a steady rhythm. After a moment of silence Eddward slightly tensed up.

"Who's downstairs?" the athlete asked with a rough voice making Kevin blush more.

He cleared his throat before speaking "no one?" he said confused

"Listen, there are sounds coming from the kitchen"

Kevin felt the boy's hand protectively tighten around him. Kevin turned his head away trying to listen to the sounds. Sure enough he heard talking and something cooking. It was then he remembered "Oh!" Kevin pushed himself up with an elbow "I think it might be Ed and Nazz. They said they would come after school."

"Oh…" Eddward looked up at him perplexed "why?"

Kevin smiled down at him "we were all worried about you silly"

"…" the swimmer didn't really know what to say. He watched the freckled teen sit up properly.

"I'm going to see what they're up to" Kevin turned and as he was about to stand up something came to mind. He looked up at the ceiling and clenched the blanket. "Um…" he turned feeling his face burn. Suddenly he leaned down and gave the boy a kiss on the cheek. "We're all here for you…you know that right?" he quickly glanced with at the other and gave him a small smile before looking down at the bed afraid to look at the reaction of the other. Then he stood and left the room.

As soon as the door closed Eddward felt his body melt. He touched his cheek in embarrassment completely uncertain on how to react to the boy's kiss. Was this Kevin being platonic like he was with Nazz? Or…

The loose bandage on his wrist then came into view. A dark figure flashed in his mind…a figure with an evil look, the person who had made him spiral all over again last night. He knew what he needed to do to end his miserable situation and if he wanted to see her again. He couldn't allow whatever Kevin was implying to develop. He couldn't admit to whatever it was he was feeling.

Then he remembered Blaine...the brunette boy had done the same but it hadn't been on the cheek. It had been an innocent action, but it had been an action that caused his life to become so chaotic. He couldn't do that to Kevin. He wouldn't allow the freckled teen to lose as much as he had over some foolish inquisitiveness. Besides, it would all be worth it when she would return. Hopefully then, this house wouldn't be so cold anymore.

He let out a long sigh and frowned at the loss of warmth…

…

Eventually Eddward had changed into an oversized dark red hoodie and black sweats. He grabbed his beanie and placed it on wanting the comfort of it as he headed downstairs. He noticed the living room had been cleaned up. There was no evidence of the shattered wine glass in sight. As he walked into the kitchen he saw Kevin and Ed taste testing while Nazz grumpily pushed them out of the way.

They looked over and smiled "Double D!" Ed came right up to him and embraced him in a tight hug, slightly picking him up the floor.

"Ed! You're insufferable" the dark haired teen grouchily mumbled out.

"Don't be such a Grinch, D" Ed put him down and smiled when Eddward smiled back.

Nazz looked down at the raven haired teen's arm and noticed a drop of blood falling down. He had opened the wound, with the frown Nazz shoved the utensil she was holding to Ed pushing him back "Look what you've done" she grabbed Eddward's arm. The athlete, however, gripped her hand stopping her from lifted the sleeve. With a frustrated breath she looked up at Eddward "There's no point in hiding it from me…I've seen them already"

She noticed the curious look the teen gave her "Come on, I'll help clean it up. Stupid Ed reopened it" she dragged the swimmer back upstairs ignoring Kevin's little chuckle.

As they approached the bathroom, Eddward remembered what state he had left the place in and stopped Nazz. "I can handle it on my own"

She looked up at him with a frown "Ed and I cleaned everything…" she opened the door to find the area clean as if nothing had happened last night.

Eddward could still see in his mind where the blood had fallen and spread and the bloodied knife that had been left on the counter. "Sorry you had to see that…" he said awkwardly, this was a side of him that he didn't want anyone to know about.

The girl shook her head "…Sorry we weren't here" Nazz spoke not looking at him. She gestured for him to take a seat as she looked for what she needed to properly clean the wound.

"No need" Eddward mumbled sitting on the toilet looking down at the shower floor where he could see himself hunched over letting the blood spill down the drain.

She then grabbed Eddward's arm and pulled the sleeve up now clearly seeing all the scars…she kept strong and undid the bandage and started to clean the cut. "Does Kevin usually help with this?" she asked curiously.

Eddward let out a small chuckle "he does"

As she finished up she looked up at the swimmer "Well…you got me and Ed too you know. If you need anything…I know I might not be at the top of the list but I'm here too and if you ever need to talk or just need company I'm just a couple of blocks away…ok?" she said quietly.

Eddward looked down at the girl with wide eyes unsure what to respond…it seemed today was a lot unsure situations "…Thanks Nazz"

"Good." She breathed out and stood "Let's head back down, dinner should be ready. I hope you don't mind I used your kitchen"

Eddward shook his head and with a soft smile followed the girl out.

That night they decided to have a sleep over at Eddward's they had caught the boy up in their lessons and discussed about how some red headed girl slapped Sam during lunch that day. Nazz quietly ate laughing along recalling her own particular moment with Sam…with Jimmy. Ed told some stories of the schemes Eddy would make them do at the table and Kevin stayed close to the raven haired teen the entire night.

But this moment of peace just couldn't seem to last.

…

Sarah had finally been released from the hospital and was allowed to move back home. Mentally she had gotten better but the realization of the reality of her life was still suffocating to her and she would break down crying after throwing a fit. She hated being paralyzed, hated being forced to be in a wheelchair for the rest of her life. All of this because of a stupid decision that she had made. Even if she still rejected him, Ed would be there to care for his baby sister for however long she allowed him to.

The first time she had allowed him to hold her hand, Ed had cried. She hadn't said anything but just let him hold her in a hug. He had missed his sister so much, no matter if she had been mean, and trouble making. He had missed seeing her around the house, and had missed hearing her loud voice. Sarah was his only sibling he had and damn it all if the world tried taking her away again.

Ed looked at her brushing her long red hair as she sat by the window looking out at the light snow slowly falling. She wore a black sweater and jeans with a blanket over her lap. Ed placed a warm cup of tea in front of her "years later and you still prefer black over pink" he chuckled looking out the window too.

She turned her gaze at him and scowled "I've always hated just girly colors…being in a coma isn't going to change that" she grabbed the cup and took a sip.

"I know that" Ed smiled down at her "you will always be you"

She frowned at the cup hearing his words "hopefully…I can be a better me this time around" Sarah put down the cup and sighed "I'm…sorry"

"For what?" Ed took a seat on the seat next to her

"For everything" she gasped out quietly with frustration " I should have listened to you, to mom and dad to Nazz, to everyone but I was just so caught up in my own head. Oh God!" She covered her face with her hands "I was such a bitch to you Ed, I was jealous of you and Nazz for being everything that I wished I could be" she whimpered out "and now here I am troubling you guys again with my shit, I don't know, m-maybe I should have fucking died. Maybe then I would be out of the way."

"Don't say that! Sis, don't think like that! You have no idea how much mom, dad and I prayed for you be with us, alive and well." Ed held her hands "you may be in a wheel chair forever, but you are alive and that's all that matters. What you do with your future is up to you, but please don't let it stop you from living your life. Just…give it time. We're here for you little sis, because we love you ok"

She nodded wiping her tears away. "Thanks Ed…man you've really matured while I was out" she laughed out "How is Eddward? I haven't seen him yet and you mentioned you were friends again" she decided to switch the subject.

"He's doing better, and he hasn't come by because he doesn't want to bother you while you're getting situated." He smiled "you want me to tell him to come?"

"Yeah I miss that nerd" she giggled. "And Nazz too!"

"Might as well invited Kevin too" Ed leaned back "He's been wanting to meet you"

"Who is he? You mentioned him before" Sarah ran her fingers through her hair starting to braid it.

"Kevin's a friend I made in Quiz bowl, after I transferred from lemon Brook high to Peach creek. He's Nazz's childhood friend too you know, I'm sure she's might have mentioned him to you before."

"Hmm I think she might have, but my memory is still a bit hazy" she tied the end of her braid

"Well, he's a pretty great guy, he's helped Eddward out a hell of a lot. I'm sure you'll like him"

"I'd like to meet him too" she smiled looking out "also…m"

"What is it?" Ed asked curiously

"What happened to Jimmy?" She frowned turning to him "I was sure I'd see him around but the last I saw of him was at the party I think and I remember hearing his voice all frantic but…"

Ed just stared at her for a long time unsure how to answer "Sarah… Jimmy, he isn't who he used to be…please try and stay away from him. He's dangerous"

"Jimmy?" She asked in disbelief "maybe I should talk to him, he was my best friend."

"No Sarah, its better if you don't get involved, trust me" Ed said quietly "he's…he's changed a lot since your accident. I'm not sure what happened, maybe your accident affected him or maybe his family's situation got worse but in all honestly it's better to leave him alone."

Sarah looked at her brother with an uncertain expression but she could tell he was being serious about the situation "It has to be Sam's fault" she mumbled out glaring at the snow sticking to the glass of the window. "That bastard doesn't care about anyone but himself"

The older guy Sarah had been seeing before the accident was a part of the gang and although she wasn't a member it seemed almost as if she had been. She had met Sam before any one of them had as well as Sam's brother who had been the gang leader at the time. Ed just stared quietly at his sister wondering what she had experienced that made her glare at the memory she was recalling.

He sighed looking over at his mother quietly looking through bills and his father smiling setting some bakery goods and coffee as he took a seat next to her. The house was warm and now felt whole with his sister finally here again. For now everything was good, hopefully everything would turn out all right for them, for everyone.

…

Kevin was packing up for the end of the day after his 6th class recalling that Eddward had to leave earlier that day because of some business Sam had assigned him. Ed and Nazz would go home together leaving Kevin to either wait for them or leave for home.

He slung his bag over his shoulder and walked out into the hallway. It was the middle of the week and the December weather had everyone wearing coats inside the school. Unfortunately some of the classrooms heaters did not work and neither did the ones in the cafeteria or the upper floor of the school. It was annoying that the principal did not choose to spend whatever bribe Sam would give him on necessary repairs the school building needed. It this continued the same way, he wouldn't be surprised to know the building might collapse in some years.

He yawned out sending a text to Nazz and Ed in the group chat that he would be leaving desperately wanting to take a nap. The school projects and essays were starting to get out of hand as winter break was in 3 weeks. He looked down at his phone noticing the date as December 2nd and smiled knowing Eddward's birthday was coming up. He knew the teen didn't want to do anything but Ed, Nazz and him had decided to at least spend the day over at Eddward's place Friday after school. He had bought a gift for the teen about 2 weeks back and he was beyond excited to give it to the athlete.

Pulling his dark blue scarf from his backpack he wrapped it around himself at the entrance of the school ready to walk home. As he pushed the doors open he felt a hand on his should that made him stop and look up. Dark eyes and blonde hair met him "Hi there love" Sam smiled down at him.

The ginger teen frowned "What do you want?"

Sam wrapped an arm around him pulling him close "Sorry to disturb your afternoon but I need a favor from you freckles, come with me"

Kevin put his arms up frustrated "Don't I get a say in this?"

"Of course you do" Sam smiled dragging the smaller teen through the east hall and opened the natatorium for them to talk. He pushed Kevin inside and closed it behind him.

"Whatever it is I'm not getting involved" Kevin slumped again the wall "So, might as well let me go"

"Nope, hear me out love" Sam chuckled out leaning against the doors with crossed arms "Then and only then can you choose to leave or do this one small thing for me. However, I must warn you the former has terrible consequences for you and for Nazz" Sam pressed his lips and nodded his head looking away innocently.

"…Small?" Kevin stared at him with a raised eyebrow for a moment then sighed out "fine, what is it?"

"Fantastic" Sam relaxed moving to stand in front of Kevin one arm blocking the others path "I need you to investigate something…or someone for me over in Lemon Brook"

"Me? Why not ask someone else like oh I don't know any of your three hundred and counting gang members?" Kevin said irritated knowing he was most likely just trying involving him in trouble "You have at least two thirds of them in Lemon Brook?"

"I completely agree, now I wonder why I haven't done that already huh let me think..." Sam gave him an irritated look "Now if you would let me speak, over in Lemon Brook there is a rival gang called The Northern Fangs, they are quite the vicious type and the person I need you to investigate has been seen over in their territory. The Fangs don't like us…at all. They know almost every member in my gang. Most all official members have a tattoo and I don't trust my mindless baboons nearly enough to do this one simple thing." Sam paused looking at Kevin seriously as he uncovered his chest a bit to reveal a shark tooth "If I send you wearing this" Sam pulled a leather jacket from his bag and handed it to him "Then they should trust you enough to let you in"

"But Eddward doesn't have a tattoo?" Kevin had seen Eddward shirtless countless of times by now and never recalled spotting a tattoo.

"Exceptions are made. He doesn't have one and that's because he's the swim team captain, it would be too hard to hide it" Sam clarified. "However, as soon as he becomes King he has to get one, symbolism of loyalty and what not"

It was weird imagining Eddward as the gang leader, and he hoped he never saw the day. Kevin looked at the logo on the backside confused seeing the old English gangster font that spelled East Sharks and the silhouette of a shark accompanied it "East Sharks? I thought your gang was The Great Whites?"

"They are, but remember when I told you there was a split in the gang years back? The group that divided changed their name to East Sharks, some still remain but they are not an active gang. They are also allies with The Northern Fangs"

Kevin contemplated the mission, why pick him? "Look I don't know if I'm up for this, I'm probably not the person to ask for this kind of favor"

"Fr— Kevin…listen" Sam scowled "This person is…" Sam sighed out frustrated "Damn it, I didn't want to tell you because I know your quite the troublemaker but" Sam pressed a finger at Kevin's chest "This might be the person who attacked Nazz…or at least they might know something about the attacker"

"Nazz said it was Jimmy, who is your gang member" Kevin accused

Sam rolled his eyes "Indeed she did. However, something doesn't add up to me. I've heard some of my boys gossiping about a masked man over on Fang territory. I promise this isn't dangerous for you. If I were to send Eddward or anyone else even if I myself went, it would be hell. The Fangs would kill us"

"Sounds like your scared of them" Kevin smirked

"I'm not…" he threatened "But this is serious… if you want Nazz and anyone else safe you'll do it" the blonde was dangerously sincere and it unsettled Kevin.

He knew he shouldn't accept, but if he did accept this would put Sam in his debt. Kevin would finally have something against Sam. Plus the great opportunity to be able to go out looking for the bastard who attacked Nazz meaning that yeah, Sam was right. If he didn't want Nazz hurt again he would go. Like hell he would pass this up, sorry Eddward "Fine, I scratch your back, you scratch mine" Kevin smirked looking up.

"Deal" Sam smiled down "I purposefully sent Eddward out to keep out of the way, so, don't fuck this up"

"I got it" Kevin shoved the jacket into his bag "so where are they located exactly?"

…

It was 8 in the evening when Eddward had finished with his shift with Ms. Adams. He had been busy all freaking day thanks to Sam and hadn't had the time to check in with anyone. He had sent Kevin a message about an hour ago but still did not get a reply to which he let out a soft sigh.

Once getting inside his car, the raven haired teen turn on the heater and decided to give Ed a call. He looked out of his window watching a couple walking by hand in hand and taking a picture by a tree with Christmas lights on. A bar was open allowing some of the people to take shelter from the cold and he noticed some members from the gang walk inside.

"Hey double d, what's up?" Ed's cheerful voice broke through the phone speaker.

"Evening Ed, I just finished work and I'm calling to check up on you guys" Eddward slouched in his car seat pulling his beanie down a bit for more warmth.

"Everything's fine, Nazz and I went over to the library after school and then I took her home. Kevin went home right after 6th and I haven't heard from him since. I'm guessing he took a nap, looked pretty tired to me"

"I sent him a message about an hour ago but he hasn't responded" Eddward breathed out a bit uncomfortable at the ginger boy's silence. "Maybe he did fall asleep…mind checking in at his home for me?" Just to be safe he thought.

"Yeah, I'll let you know in a bit"

"How Sarah doing?" He asked noticing the light drops of rain on his window.

"She's much better now, she's been asking about you ya know" Ed spoke out softly

"Oh really" Eddward smiled "then I'll come by this weekend to see her if that's alright"

"Sounds great D, alright I'm going to head out and I'll let you know if everything's good with your Boi" he spoke out with a teasing voice that made Eddward blush.

"No Ed…" the athlete whimpered out embarrassed.

"I'm joking….not really" Ed spoke quickly with a laugh at the end "ok bye"

Ed hung up before the other could respond leaving a blushed Eddward in silence as he observed the couple share a kiss and hug under the tree. With a frustrated sigh he gripped the steering wheel and turned the key ready to finally go home.

…

Kevin mounted his bike passed six that evening with clear instructions of what he needed to do that night. Sam had given him a temporary tattoo that would not rub off for a good week, the leather jacket and told him the gang leader as well as some of the captain's names just in case he was questioned. He had quickly explained the ranks, titles and positions of the general gang hierarchy structure. It was quite a structure that left Kevin a bit speechless; you had the boss, their consigliere, the underboss, then the captains, the made men, and the associates. These ranks and positions were highly intense when joining a huge mafia crew but Sam's gang was not as strict as most of the members were a bunch of underage kids. Sam had explained proudly that Eddward currently held the position of the underboss although it was kept in the down low since Jimmy was the consigliere and expected to take after Sam.

Captains, are the people who lead groups of made men, Eddward had been one before being promoted. The made men, were basically crew members that are officially initiated and take an oath of silence and loyalty. Finally the associates are unofficial crew members that commit crimes under the protection and direction of the captains and made men. As Sam explained, most of his gang was made up of associates while a third was official members. It seemed to annoy him but Kevin didn't ask further.

Sam said that the East Sharks were not as complex since their crew were made up of about 30 members and again were inactive. Sam had had one of his contacts make up a fake tattoo that was an exact replica to the gang's. It was a simple silhouette outline of a great white, and in all honesty, Kevin liked it. He had decided to place it on his inner arm and wore a thin grey sweater along with a dark green flannel that had belonged to his dad. He also had on the only pair of black jeans he owned and a dark red cap that had been his dad's as well. The leather jack was what truly tied everything together. He felt out of place and yet radiated a confidence he didn't know he had.

The freckled teen placed the hat and glasses in his small compartment and put on his helmet finally ready to leave. He had let his dad know he was going to go stay over at Eddward's and had debated letting Ed and Nazz know about his little mission, but decided against it knowing they would stop him. Sam had told him that if the situation turned sour he had some of his members hanging close to the area ready to help out and that slightly reassured him. He was in possession of a blade just in case as well. With a breath in he turned on the engine and drove off hoping everything would go smoothly.

…

"What do you mean he isn't home?" Eddward was laid out on the couch exhausted when Ed had called "Where is he then?"

"I don't know, Kevin's dad told me he was spending the night with you!" Ed yelped out confused.

"…what?" Eddward sat up alarmed "Obviously he isn't here so where is he?"

"Not with Nazz, you, me or home…" Ed sighed "I don't know, I went into his room pretending to look for something of mine and saw his quiz bowl hat on his bed. He never goes without his hat"

"Was his bike there?" Eddward asked already standing up and grabbing his keys and his leather jacket.

"No it wasn't"

"And you're sure he is not with Nazz?" Eddward headed into the garage.

"Yeah I'm sure" Ed sighed "I went around the neighborhood thinking he might be around but I didn't see him, maybe he's downtown but I don't know D. He isn't answering any texts or calls"

With a sigh he closed the car door and sighed out "Its fine, go home I'm going out to look for him"

"Let me know if you need me to help with anything, and let's not let Nazz know. It might not be a big thing and I don't want to worry her. Besides he might show up at you place later"

"Agreed…maybe he's just driving around but he would have answered us by now" Eddward rubbed at his forehead feeling a bit frustrated with Kevin running off again. "Alright I'll call later"

"Good luck D" When Ed hung up Eddward opened the garage door and drove off tensed and confused of why the freckled teen lied about his whereabouts. He just hoped he hadn't gotten himself in any trouble.

…

Lemon Brook was about twice the size of Peach Creek with some tall buildings right in the middle that made it look almost city like. Lemon Brook was right next to a beach where many huge parties were held, and in fact, the town was known as a party town. He wasn't surprised to hear faint music when he entered the town. Making his way into the northern part of town, he tried looking for the building Sam had told him was their hangout.

About 20 minutes later of searching he found the building graffiti with a tribal looking wolf he recognized as their logo. The name FANGS shined in neon bright red above the entrance. There was loud rock music playing from the inside and various gang members flooding the street outside and inside the place.

Kevin bit his lip as he stopped about a block away observing the people laughing and teasing one another. Vicious Sam had called them...Kevin took his helmet off and put on his glasses and the hat turning the brim to the back that left three strands of his ginger hair to pop out from the front of the hat. He felt his phone buzzing for most of his ride and now decided to put it on silence not wanting any interruptions. There had been one message from Eddward and it made him feel guilty not telling him what he was up to. However, this would be worth the scolding.

With that, Kevin shoved his hands in the pockets of his jacket and walked forward. He caught the attention of the gang members; a few were hostile but most just gave him a nod upon seeing his jacket. As he approached the entrance some of them made way for him to enter.

"What's a shark doing here" one of them growled out coming up to Kevin with their chest puffed out to look intimidating. "You're trespassing on our territory, shark"

"He's an eastern, it's chill" others explained with a smile then gave him a cheerful nod greeting the freckled teen. They pulled back their aggressive member letting Kevin through.

Kevin returned their greeting and entered the FANGS. Bright neon pink and blue lights enveloped every inch of the bar. Both scowls and greetings from young and older gang members looked his way. Kevin looked around the crowded bar hoping to stop something out of the ordinary or suspicious. Sam hadn't given much to go off from but the rumors of the masked man committing crimes throughout the town.

There were people of completely different backgrounds all gathered. Some danced, others sang both great and horribly, while others just hanged out by the bar quietly observing. It was hard to maneuver through, but as of now he didn't see anything suspicious. There were older members teasing the younger ones, a homosexual couple lovingly kissing each other by the stairs that lead to the second floor while others jokingly gagged at their PDA. There seemed to be games happening up on the second floor as there were loud howling and cheering coming down from there.

"Hey there Eastern" a cheerful voice popped up from behind him making Kevin turn around. A green haired teen that was about three inches taller than him stood with the most flirtatious smirk Kevin had ever seen. "You lost?"

"No I'm not. Actually, I'm looking for Raine" Kevin asked remembering Sam telling him too look for the gang leader and question them about the attacks.

"Raine should be around here somewhere…" the green haired boy looked around standing on his tip toes. It was then Kevin noticed the boy wasn't wearing a jean jacket with the wolf gang logo on the back like the rest who were there.

"Are you a member?" Kevin asked curiously

This caught the teen's attention once more "Nah, I just like to hang out here and they let me stay" the boy laughed out "The names Nat" he reached a hand out.

Kevin smiled taking the boys hand "Kevin"

"Oh here they come" Nat looked behind Kevin noticing the person walking towards them.

Kevin turned and saw an androgynous person of about mid-twenties walking towards them. They had tanned skin that was darker than Eddward's and long dark brown hair styled in dreads. Their light brown eyes appeared almost golden and they stood about the same height as Eddward.

"So it's true, we got an Eastern in town" the person named Raine spoke out with an emotionless yet authoritative expression upon seeing Kevin, like a territorial wolf. "What brings you here little shark?"

"I'm looking to speak with you about an issue" Kevin directly announced with a firm look not wanting to make a bad impression on of the gang leader.

"Are you made?" Raine asked with suspicious eyes. Kevin rolled up his sleeve to show them his tattoo. "Hm… I haven't seen you before. Didn't know Papa Alon was taking in any new members. Well then, come with me newbie"

Kevin followed Raine through the crowd to the bar section where they climbed up onto the table and they lowered a hand to help Kevin up as well. On top of the table, Kevin could see through the flood of people and they all looked so happy to be there. The feel of the environment was so different from what little he had witnessed over with Sam's. Eddward didn't seem close to anyone in the gang and it seemed like that ran through with most all. Yet here, there was a warmth that radiated through the entire bar that made Kevin feel comfortable "LISTEN UP WOLVES" Raine's strong voice boomed through the bar getting everyone's attention and the music lowered immediately "We've got an Eastern Shark swimming in our home tonight. Y'all better play nice" They paused a moment looking through the crowd then grabbed Kevin's tattooed arm and lifted it up in the air "Let's show our new friend our hospitality shall we?" Raine smirked down at Kevin then strongly howled out leading others to do the same.

Kevin didn't know what to think or feel, but in that moment everything was simply awesome. It was an unbelievable moment for him as he stood up there overlooking the crows with the Fangs leader. With confidence, he grinned looking around the room with howling people. There was an overwhelming amount of family-like atmosphere in the air as they greeted him. Sam was definitely the vicious one.

Raine jumped down the bar followed by Kevin, who was then greeted with some pats on the back as well as fist bumps. "Alright little shark, let's talk" Raine motioned with a nod of their head indicating upstairs.

The freckled teen nodded and followed the other. He laughed out when Raine made their hands into a camera and pretended to photograph the couple by the stairs. One of them just stuck their tongue out while the other continued to kiss them on the cheek. The second floor was split into sections, there was an open louche for games and the other side were rooms. They continued onto the second set of stairs that let them up into the rooftop. "It's hella loud to speak properly inside" Raine laughed out opening the door for Kevin.

Kevin noticed the rooftop was very nicely decorated with lights and some plants as well as some furniture though at the moment it was unoccupied. "I'm glad there's a new shark on the crew. They all usually swim to the Great Whites. Fucking barbaric gang I tell you." Raine spoke out leaning against the railing looking down at his members. "What made you join the East?"

The smaller teen joined Raine and took a breath in trying to come up with an answer "I hate Sam…" well that was true.

Raine laughed out loud "What did that bastard do to you? Were you a victim?"

"I was a target" Kevin muttered out "My best friend was a victim"

With a shake of their head Raine breathed out "Unbelievable. Someday Sam and his crew will get hit with Karma real hard they won't ever recover." Raine glanced down at Kevin "You made a good choice. The East Sharks and Northern Fangs, we're not like them. They deal with shady shit. Sam is the son of one of the most fearsome crime lords, it's to be expected." They placed a firm hand on his shoulder "Here, you've got our protection little shark. What did you need to talk about?"

Kevin nodded thankful for their statement and relieved they weren't a bunch of criminals. "I've heard about some attacks committed here by a masked man"

Raine nodded looking out into the lively town "hm…This isn't your territory. There's no need to be worried"

"Yeah I should be actually" Kevin turned toward Raine "You see, a while ago my best friend was attacked by someone in a mask. I'm thinking they're related"

Raine looked down at Kevin with confused eyes "I've haven't heard anything about an attack on Peach Creek?"

"I don't think they meant to attack the town. They went specifically to attack my friend" Kevin looked down at the members outside. "I want to find out who and why"

Raine nodded silently "Well, the attacks in town have been against both the Fangs and the Great Whites. More solely on our territory which was why we thought it was a Great White. But, the Masked man was seen by one of my members spray painting a harpooned shark on one of my walls" They turned and pointed behind them "It was over in that alleyway. How they managed to trespass so close to home, I have no fucking idea" they sighed out clearly angered by the action "My member said they were wearing a hockey mask and a black hoodie but they didn't get to confront them before the person ran off"

Kevin looked up remembering Nazz's description of the attacker. It had to be the same person.

They shook their head in uncertainty "I can't tell who they are against, us or them… they seem real angry at Sam but the dead shark could even symbolize Peach Creek's swim team captain. What's his name?"

"…Eddward" Kevin quietly responded tightly gripping the handle of the railing.

"Yeah him" Raine nodded "I heard your school calls him the king of sharks" they growled out "They're absolute beasts, him included. I watched one of his cage fights once. Unreal, barbaric, and yet pretty damn rad. I can tell he's going to make one tough of a King if he takes after Sam"

"Hm…" Kevin nodded fearing the image "So you haven't heard anything about the masked man attacking specific people?"

With a shake of their head, Raine responded "Not around here, no. It's mainly been attacks on gang territory for us." Raine straightened up turning around "I'm sorry to hear they went after your friend. There has to be a reason for it, is she part of the Great Whites?"

"No she's not, which is why it's weird to me" Kevin huffed out in frustration.

"Well, if it is the same person, there has to be a connection between what's been going on here and the attack on your friend. If you need anything I'd be happy to lend a hand little shark." Raine gave him a smile.

"Thanks a lot Raine. It would help a lot if you could update me of anything new you learn about this attacker" Kevin reached a hand out.

Raine shook Kevin's freckled hand with a soft smile "Yeah, I'll be in contact" With that Raine patted Kevin on the back "Stay as long as you'd like little shark, your welcome here any time. But my responsible adult side advices you not to stay up too late since it's a school night" they gave him a wink.

Kevin nodded and they headed back downstairs to enjoy the lively party. Kevin reunited with Nat who showed him everything that was Fang traditions and introduced him to almost everyone at that party. Raine had been strict about no one underage drinking especially knowing Kevin was on a motorcycle. Some of the Fangs wanted to admire Kevin's bike and he ended up giving rides to three of them. Around 10 Kevin finally left the party and as he drove out there were more howling from the wolves sending him off.

Now that kind of environment…he could get used to.

…

Eddward had driven around town for about half an hour when he decided to stop by a playground near his neighborhood and sent Kevin a message asking him to let him know he was alright. Around 15 minutes later he finally received a response form the freckled teen that calmed him down. He sat down on one of the swings feeling exhausted from the day but not enough to peacefully sleep. His head softly leaned against the chain appreciating the cold breeze of winter. Eddward let a breath out and watched the condensation of it disappear. His eyes wandered up at the night sky where he saw the thinnest crescent moon shining brightly above. Though it was late, he could hear the faint sound of Christmas music in the distant from downtown. Everyone was in the Christmas cheer as soon as December hit and he hated it.

Yeah, his birthday was soon and he hated it. Every year everyone around him was filled with joy and smiled all day and that only made him feel more depressed as it did this year. He was used to simply passing the day as if it was any other day, because it truly wasn't anything special. The only time he had decided to recognize it and do something was a year after his parents had left and he had taken down all their pictures from the wall. Burning them had not helped his abandonment but it had brought on a stronger attitude to rise up. Perhaps it had been the day he decided to not feel, well that's what he told himself but he was still hurting.

Nonetheless, if there was anything good about his birthday coming up it was that he was a year away from turning 18. He would soon finally he be free and that was the only joy he was getting from the day. He wouldn't have to live up to anyone's expectations anymore, he could leave. His bastard father wouldn't be able to stop him, and Eddward wouldn't have to be chained to the house. Though, as much as he claimed this…he was guilty of wanting to stay. If he stayed, he could hope that he would see them one day. His father was the only one to show up every once in a while, though not for him of course. His mother…he had no idea how she was. Every time he tried to ask about her, his father would avoid the question or say she's fine. Eddward wanted to see her so much. Even after her betrayal and after all the hurt he suffered he still wanted to just see her.

Something in him had been amiss ever since the first time he had asked about her. Where was she? How is she? Is she happy? May I see her? Eddward never received a clear response and his father would always turn sour unable to look him in the eyes. He hated him…there was a disgust in his spoken words. There was something his father was hiding that he didn't want Eddward knowing. Don't get him wrong he had decided to search for his mother once, but he never found any new information about her. It always ended the year they had left. It was like she had dropped from the face of the earth and Eddward was disappointed every time he tried once more. Eventually, he gave up, but not in asking about her whenever he happened to see his father.

If there was one thing he wanted for his birthday, dare he ask of this…he just wanted to see his mother. Eddward didn't care if it was from afar as he was now looking up at the moon. He closed his eyes recalling a feeble memory of her singing a song in her tongue as she ran her slender hand over his wavy locks. Her long black hair would always gracefully fall over her shoulders and her gap toothed smile would always bring a smile to his face.

Her silk voice and slowly turned down in volume and the memory was now on mute. His kid-self watched as his mother turned away and covered her face with her hands. When he sat up to place a hand at her arm she turned and looked down at him…she was crying and she was angry "Devil's child" she spoke out in disgust. Laughter could be heard in the background of the scene and then everything was swallowed and he was back in the room with the lamp.

Eddward opened his eyes with a gasp and turned his head searching his surroundings realizing he was still sitting on the swing and had fallen asleep. He leaned forward rubbing his face with his hands feeling emotionally exhausted. With a breath in he finally stood and made his way to his car. He really shouldn't he so hopeful…

…

Kevin was about 25 minutes way from Peach Creek and the freeway was completely abandoned except for one or two car speeding in front of him. He was still feeling the adrenaline from the night and he rode with a grin on his face speeding up. It was then he heard a rumbling of a car coming up close on the lane next to him. Kevin didn't make much of it but he turned when he saw the car leaning dangerously close. Kevin sped up thinking the driver must be drunk and trying to get away but then the car followed along trying to get close. Kevin turned trying to see the driver's face and only saw a dark hoodie and he felt chills. This had to be the same masked person…

When the driver seemed to notice Kevin's realization they turned the wheel hard attempting to crash into Kevin but the freckled teen pulled the brake of his motorcycle ending up right behind the car. Kevin watched the car merge into the same lane. Kevin then changed lanes and sped up going twice as fast trying to lose the person.

He looked back seeing the car speed up ignoring the lanes and going directly at him. This was absolutely terrifying…but Kevin only drove faster moving out of the way and it was reassuring as he saw the town come into view. This didn't stop the person as they were going dangerously fast to catch up to him. The car drove right behind him and even if Kevin moved the car followed. They were going to hit him and there wasn't anything Kevin could do at this point to get away. At the speed they were going…it could mean Kevin could get seriously injured or die. Now all that the freckled teen was thinking was how to minimize the damage, and there was only one thing to reassure him little injuries and that was to jump from his bike so it wouldn't crush his legs. Kevin couldn't even slow down because the person wasn't planning on slowing down and he would just crash into them…

There was bump from the car behind and Kevin gulped…he was ready.

As soon as the car sped up and crashed into him Kevin kicked off from the bike and jumped out of the way. He hit the ground hard and felt himself roll away to the edge of the freeway. Most of the air in his lungs was gone and it was hard to breathe. He barely opened his eyes enough to witness the car speed away and his bike skid through the freeway about 80 feet away from him.

Everything hurt so bad…thankfully he had his helmet on which had saved him from certain death had he hit his head as hard as he landed. Kevin still couldn't breathe right and he clutched at his sweater tightly. It hurt to breathe in and it hurt to breathe out. The left side of his back had hit the ground first and he knew for sure he had scraped the skin because it was burning and could feel blood building up.

About ten minutes later Kevin slowly sat up breathing in but it still hurt some. He gripped his left side tightly and dragged himself to his bike. He frowned when he saw the right mirror and some of the metal on it destroyed. He picked it up with a lot of effort as he was in pain and it made his bike seem twice as heavy. He examined to see if it was dangerous to ride and when he didn't see like it could explode on him he turn it on to test it out.

The way back to Eddward's house was going to be a very difficult one. Yeah he had ridden with one functional arm before but this was his entire left arm and back in burning pain. He could feel the blood sliding down but Kevin had to make it through. He held a breath and slowly kicked off the ground riding slowly back into town.

Eddward was going to kill him…

…

Eddward turned into his neighborhood when he slowed down noticing the silver car in his driveway. Why was he back? Eddward parked at the curbside feeling anxiety start to rise. He wasn't mentally prepared, well he never was but it wasn't that long that he had been there. So why was he back?

Eddward got out of his car and slowly made his way to his house. He noticed snowflakes falling but once they touched the ground they melted. His hands were trembling…damn it why? He held his breath and opened the door.

It was the same as always, the dim lit living room and the wine bottle out with the glass half empty. The office door opened and a light coming from it…he was always there.

Eddward made his way up the stairs and before he reached the door he listened. They seemed to be turning the page of a book. Eddward finally made himself present and stood at the door and looked inside. There he was sitting on that fucking chair at his desk with a glass of wine and a cigarette in hand.

"What brings you back so soon…Father?" Eddward questioned with a dry voice.

The man didn't turn to look at him, nor did he answer. Eddward observed him silently. He was a little taller than Eddward, and he was a man of a bit darker skin tone form Eddward's, they shared the same wavy hair as well. He had two beauty marks on the right side of his nose, and although he wasn't a big man like Kevin's father he held the presence of one. He had stern eyes and thick eyebrows that made him seem as if he was constantly in a state of anger. Victor Vincent, an educated man with an MD, a Ph.D., an expensive suit and a broken family.

Finally he turned his brown eyes to look up at Eddward "Must I have a reason to visit my home and only son?" he put the cigarette in his mouth and breathed in.

"Of course not, father. It's just…" Eddward leaned against the door frame "You never come unless you do"

The man chuckled darkly taking his cigarette out of his mouth and exhaling the smoke. He picked up his glass and took a sip of it, then cleared his throat staring at the way the liquid moved in the glass. "…" the man was silent letting Eddward know he was angry. "It is almost your birthday" the man's raspy voice announced.

"Indeed" the raven haired teen crossed his arms trying to hide his fear from his father.

"Have you contemplated my proposition?" the man looked up meeting Eddward's blue eyes.

Eddward nodded feeling a part of himself give up "I have"

"What is your answer?" His father would not break eye contact with him. The man had a clear disgust on his expression. Whatever Eddward answer would change that look to relief or murderous.

…

Kevin breathed out in relief as he saw Eddward's house, finally, he had arrived. His back didn't burn anymore but felt numb and he knew he was still bleeding. He left his motorcycle next to Eddward's car and that's when he noticed the other car he didn't recognize. Who was in the house with him?

Kevin limped his way to the house then knocked once. When he didn't get a response he noticed loud sounds from the inside. "I'M NOT!" Eddward's raging voice broke through and Kevin turned to see if the door was opened to which it was. As soon as he slightly opened the door he heard a rough man's voice "You're ill Eddward! When will you understand!" that made Kevin freeze…ill?

"I won't go! It's inhuman what they do!"

"I WANT MY SON BACK!"

Kevin stood frozen at the entrance…son? This was Eddward's father. Panic and rage began to build forgetting his physical pain.

"I AM YOUR SON" Eddward broken voice cried out

Kevin heard a loud and harsh slap "…my son died 7 years ago" the man croaked out in pure anger "You killed him!" Kevin could hear Eddward' heavy breathing…how dare he how dare

"You're the one who wrecked me" Eddward spat out venomously "I don't want your mercy" Eddward's footsteps made their way downstairs.

"EDDWARD. If you want to see your mother again you would do this for her!" the man yelled out chasing after Eddward and that's when Kevin rushed in knowing another hit was about to happen.

Kevin ran into the living room and saw the tall raging man with a hand on Eddward's shirt lifting him up and a hand ready for another slap. "STOP!" Kevin screamed out running in between them and taking the hit himself.

"KEVIN!" Eddward immediately wrapped his arms around Kevin.

The freckled teen stood up pushing through his pain that was starting to burn once more at the friction of hitting against Eddward's chest. "Your Eddward's old man?" he questioned looking at the man with just as much rage at he was being looked down on.

"Who are you?" the man looked down at Kevin with a scowl resembling Eddward's. "Another one of his trouble making…friends" he spat the last word with so much disgust it had made Eddward protectively pull Kevin back but the freckled teen didn't move.

"Yeah, I am one of his friends. Someone who actually cares about him" Kevin shoved Eddward's arm off of him.

The man laughed out with a shake of his head "Oh, you care? Really? You must be one of them too, a fucking devil's child. He's a fucking demon"

"How dare you!" Kevin stepped forward towards the man "You were the one to leave him alone! If he's messed up it's because of you! Eddward has been trying so hard to get better and here you come back ruining everything for him!" Kevin was so angry at this man he couldn't hear Eddward's attempts to pull Kevin back.

"He's NEVER going to get better by these terms!" the man spat out "I CAN'T HAVE MY CAREER, MY LEGACY RUINED BY HIM" The man grabbed Kevin and shoved him away then grabbed Eddward next lifting him up again "THE HUMILIATION, EDDWARD! Don't you understand? I can't have the entire fucking world know my son's a fucking faggot" the man's last words were broken "Please let me help you"

Eddward was petrified at the man words and hung by the man's grip completely tense. His eyes made his way down to Kevin who had been on the stairs looking up at them with wide eyes. He knew…it was out. Kevin hated him too didn't he? The raven haired looked back at his father feeling numb. When the man released him he didn't hear anything didn't see anything he turned and started walking away. Before he knew it he was running out of the house into the cold winter.

"EDDWARD!" Kevin screamed out, standing back up on his feet. He limped forward and before leaving he turned to Eddward's dad. "You don't deserve him" Kevin spat out weakly grabbing at the man's suit with his injured arm and with the other landed a punch at the man's chin. "You fucking selfish prick" Then Kevin feebly ran out after the raven haired teen.

…

Eddward wondered around town without a loud though but the image of Kevin's wide eyes. He knows…he knows…damn it he knows he knowsheknowsheknowsheknowsheknowsheknows! Eddward let himself drop on his knees when he reached the town's beach. Eddward pulled his legs to his chest and his beanie down covering his face. Why was he like this? His father was right he was ill… If everyone around him left for this very reason than he should try to fix it. Would it be alright to accept his father's proposition? Would the therapy work? He just wanted everyone back…

He couldn't bear to see Kevin's expression after hearing what he was. The only person who had stood by him would now be gone too and that idea hurt him more than he thought. He wanted to die…he wanted to die so bad. He wanted the ocean to consume him once more and hopefully this time it would work out and he be gone from this cruel world. He was so done dealing with everything, fuck everything…he was so done and tired.

"Eddward!" a faint panicked voice broke through his muffled hearing. "Wait! Can we talk this out?" Kevin panicked voice caused him to lift up his hat in order to see. Eddward felt his heart ache and his breath stop at the sight of Kevin making his way over to him. "Eddward…please I'm begging you" Kevin slowed down about 50 feet away from him and that's when Eddward noticed Kevin wasn't alright. The freckled teen was very pale and covered in sweat.

Kevin tried to continue to walk but his legs finally failed him and he stumbled down, he was out of breath and his entire body was so hot and in pain "I'm here…" he mumbled out weakly "I'm here Eddward" Kevin looked up at a panicked Eddward who was now holding onto him.

"Kevin!" Eddward seemed to have opened his eyes then he examined Kevin, the clothes he was wearing the bruises he was forming and the scratches on his hands and torn up bloody knees. "Oh my god…what happened?" he asked terrified. He felt a warm wetness from the back of Kevin making his eyes go wide. Eddward gently lifted the arm he had wrapped around Kevin and saw some blood. "Kevin!"

"I'm fine…Don't shout" Kevin mumbled out feeling so tired.

"Like hell you are! I need to get you to the hospital!" Eddward started picking Kevin up.

"No! Not the hospital" Kevin begged pushing away from the teen "I'm fine you can fix me up later"

"Kevin you're losing a ton of blood!" Eddward voice was harsh and he continued to struggle with trying to pick Kevin up who kept refusing.

"I lost a lot of blood would be the correct term" Kevin laughed out knowing he had stopped bleeding. "I'm fine really" he tried to convince his body not to pass out. "You're not" he bumped his head against Eddward's playfully.

Eddward shook his head "Kevin this isn't funny. I really need to take you to the hospital"

"No you don't" Kevin now let his entire body lean against Eddward's; he was so physically exhausted "You can fix me yourself can't you?"

"…" Eddward wrapped an arm around Kevin feeling tears starting to form "What the hell are you doing here you idiot"

"You're my friend Eddward…I'm not leaving you alone" Kevin muttered out "How you identify, feel or think doesn't change that fact." Kevin pushed himself up and looked up at Eddward's ocean eyes "That man doesn't get to manipulate you like that. You are who you choose to be." Kevin remembered everything Eddward had said about himself at the beginning "You are not a mistake, you are not defective Eddward and you are not ill. They don't see how glorious you really are" the freckled teen couldn't believe the man when he asked to help Eddward. What an asshole "I've said it before and I'll say it again, you're fucking perfect"

Eddward remembered the look Kevin had said those exact same words to him over the summer and the passion behind those words only seem to burn stronger in this very moment. "Kevin…" Eddward sniffled out.

Kevin shook his head softly "Let me finish…To me, you are Eddward Vincent. One of my best friends, and someone I can rely on one hundred percent of the time. You are someone who always has come to my rescue, you are my hero Eddward" Kevin smiled up at Eddward who had tears running down his cheeks now. Kevin reached up and wiped them away "If they can't appreciate and love you then forget them because you only need us. Ed, Nazz and I appreciate you. I love you just the way you are right now. No one is going anywhere Eddward. So… please, please don't put yourself down, please don't hurt yourself anymore. It hurts me seeing you so down. I'll always be here if you need me"

Eddward didn't deserve him…he really didn't and when Kevin reach to wrap his arms around him Eddward completely melted into the boy's arms. He felt so small in this moment and so happy and relieved Kevin was still there with him. Kevin smiled placing a kiss on the boy's temple. Eddward didn't deserve this angel in his life, and he felt so overwhelmed by the moment he almost forgot about Kevin's current condition. He felt the blood on Kevin's backside "Shit…" the raven haired teen pulled away "I really need to take you back"

"No hospital ok" Kevin chuckled out finally letting the other lift him up "I'll explain later"

"I can't believe I'm listening to you…I really should be taking you in" Eddward shook his head looking down at Kevin in his arms.

Kevin gave him a smile lifting a hand to wipe the rest of the tears away from Eddward's cheeks "I'm glad you are…"

Eddward smiled down at Kevin with a fond look "You're really something else, Kevin Barr" a pain in his chest still hurt at the thought of returning back home…hopefully his father was gone.

"mhm…" Kevin let his head rest on Eddward's shoulder he couldn't hold out any longer. "I'm…not going anywhere…" he muttered out once more before he passed out as if to reassure the other.

The night was really cold and snowflakes continued to fall down, and even if Eddward was outside without a jacket on he felt warmth enough from Kevin's presence. He walked quickly and lifted Kevin up when he felt him slipping. He got a couple of stares from the handful of people who were out at midnight but he ignored them, glaring harshly if they stared too long.

Finally made it back to his neighborhood where he noticed the damaged motorcycle and the thought of Kevin in an accident really scared him. The car was still there…as Eddward was carrying Kevin across his front lawn his father stepped out glaring at them. "You will not bring your…companions into this house. Leave him be, and come with me Eddward I'll help you get better"

"Move" Eddward spat out holding Kevin tightly.

"Do you plan on continuing this…this disgusting, sinful lifestyle?" Eddward's father form fists clearly starting to rage once more. "Do you plan on continuing to ruin your mother and me? All I want is to go back to how it used to be Eddward"

"MOVE! He's injured!" Eddward barked out and stepped forward trying to pass through his father.

"THIS is MY house and I will NOT have people like him here!" The man pushed them back.

"NO this has NEVER been your house! Legally this home is mothers! Unless she herself tells me in person she doesn't want me and Kevin here then I stay. Now…Move aside" Eddward stared at his own father with a roaring amount of rage. He wasn't going to let anyone disrespect Kevin like this.

Finally the man moved aside and walked to his car. His father was going to finally leave. Eddward rushed inside with Kevin and practically ran into his bedroom laying Kevin down on his bed and started to strip him.

When Eddward took the ruined leather jacket off he was beyond confused as to why Kevin was wearing an Eastern jacket? But that would have to wait until the next day. He gingerly took off the boys flannel and sweater leaving his freckled chest exposed. Eddward was beyond worried when he saw the huge bruises and horribly scraped skin all over Kevin's left side. Gently he turned Kevin to the side and saw his upper left back deeply scraped and was still bleeding only a bit. Making sure Kevin would stay on his side Eddward rushed downstairs into his basement and grabbed a bucket and went upstairs to get what he needed.

He had grabbed cloths, water, antibiotics, bandages and more things just in case and brought them over to his room. Grabbing the chair from his desk he sat by his bed and placed a towel tucking it under Kevin a bit to catch the water. He grabbed the one of the cloths pressed it to the wound waiting for it to stop bleeding. After a short while he grabbed another and soaked it with water lightly cleaning the wound and those around it. Eddward wondered if this accident was going to affect Kevin's body…he wouldn't doubt it and that saddened him.

Forty minutes later he finished wrapping the smaller teen in bandages. Eddward then turned Kevin on his backside placing a pillow on his injured side and with a small blush started stripping the boy of his pants to clean up the ones on his legs. Around two in the morning Eddward sat silently looking down at the nearly nude and utterly injured Kevin vulnerably sleeping in his bed.

Kevin had once again surprised him, and had once again saved him. If anyone was the hero here, it was Kevin not Eddward. This boy meant so much to him. Eddward didn't know what he would do without him here by his side. This boy was his saving grace, and his absolute fatal sin and he beyond happy to relish in it. If Kevin was the only one in this world that loved him no matter what than Eddward was willing to fight on, no more doubts.

"Thank you Pumpkin" Eddward leaned down pressing his nose to the boy's cheek bone then hesitantly placed a kiss on his freckled cheek. "Thank you so much" he stayed in the moment as long as he could and lightly encompassed Kevin in his arms. He shouldn't have doubted the boy, but he was so certain…he had seen the looks of everyone when they had found out, his parents, Ed and Eddy, and Marie had even once looked at him wrongly. However, Kevin was defiantly different from all of them…he was really something else. No matter what he told the teen Kevin would not leave his side and he was so grateful.

Eddward finally ripped himself from the smaller teen and began cleaning up. He knew he wasn't sleeping any time soon and when he finished he dressed Kevin in warm oversized clothing then took a seat at the edge of his bed leaning at the wall remembering to let Ed know Kevin was alright…well alright as he could be at this moment.

He looked down at the sleeping Kevin and remembered everything Kevin had stated that night. How he would accept him the way he was no matter how he felt or identified as. Yet, even if Kevin had said those things Eddward wasn't ready to accept that side of him…in his mind that side of him was still unwanted and sinful. But he was thankful to have Kevin's support.

If there was something he was more inclined to accept now it was his fondness for the freckled teen. Whatever that meant he would eventually figure it out along the way but for now he would cherish these moments with Kevin.

…

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Hope I did this chapter justice...

It was hurtful writing this chapter but also SUPER fun writing Kevin's side quest.

The Northern Fangs will return...

PLEASE leave a review about your thoughts, feels, and predictions! They really do help me stay motivated!

Again please excuse errors...these long chapters are over 10K (this one is 14K) and I have little to no patience of looking through it more than twice lolol.

Also if you want any updates on the next chapter, or just want to see AWA related art check out my instagram! Arielagam.