Okay, I gotta ask a quick question. I wanna know everyone's standing on
adding romance to this. The story wouldn't be based on it; it just might be
a side thing. If you guys think it would take away from the story, tell me.
If you think it would add to the story, tell me. I just wanna ask while it
can still go either way. I know most romances are all the same, and that's
why I'm asking first. It doesn't matter as much to me. So please tell your
opinion on the matter. ^_^
I just noticed something. I was building up to this one part that was supposed to be the main part and I'm not even there yet after TWENTY chapters...lol...oh well, who cares. ^_^ I diddle WAY too much on details. But I guess that's a good thing. That means this will be going on much longer than I anticipated. Not that I'm complaining. ^_^
Liz- Yeah, Charlie's dad and the Varsity are both meanies. Lol, ALL HAIL THE SQUIRRELS! ^_^ Yeah, that TASP doesn't sound very fun...but at least we got to watch D2 and D3! ^_^ Lol, well I'm glad you are enjoying it. And yes, Cam would probably shoot you. Lol, EXACTLY!
Snorts90- Lol, yes...Charlie's dad is a psycho...dun dun dun!
Banksiebabe99- Lol, yes...that would be the bright thing to do. But hey, my story would be very interesting if the characters had ANY common sense at all. Lol. ^_^ yes, I kinda miss the Ducks too. ^_^
SpikeytheBunny- Really? WOW! Thank you so much! That really makes me feel good! ^_^Yes, Demonic George is back! Dun dun DUN! Lol, I would love too, but as with goerge, I must finish the fic first. THEN you have all rights to beating them up. ^_^ Yes, poor maids. *cries for maids* NO ONE IS SAFE FROM MY WRATH!!!! Lol, George and his psychotic bottle-smashing. Lol, I would have NEVER guessed that you liked Charlie angst! ^_^ yes, it shall get worse...DUN DUN DUN! Lol. Aw, I love you too! *hugs* You're so sweet to me! YYYYEEEEEEESSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!! You updated with a LONG chapter! *dances around giddily, screaming in happiness* YAY!!!!!!! I'm so happy! And your REVIEW has made my day SO MUCH BETTER! ^_^ Hey, and I don't know where you stand on Duck-Couples, but I'm writing a Charlie/Julie fic and I wanted to know if you would read and review it for me. It's kind of a 'warp into the mind of eleven-year-old Charlie Conway.' It's a scary place to be. ^_^ Anyway, just wanted to inform you that I would love you forever if you did! ^_^ *checks reviews for it* Oh...you already did.lol...^_^ You read my mind! *does happy dance* Thank you! And by the way, congrats on breaking 100 reviews! I'm insanely jealous that you broke 100 with TEN chapters while it took me THRITEEN! *hugs you anyway* But I still love you! ^_^
DodgerMcClure.aka.Drama-Queen- Lol, yes, Charlie DID get the raw end of the deal. Thanks for reviewing!
Chronicles Bailey- Charlie is your least favorite character? How sad! Well at least you love him now...I personally don't think he's ugly...I think he's hot. *wipes away tear* But we are all entitled to our own opinions. Lol. Thanks for reviewing! ^_^
Kate the Great- Ooo...that rhymed kinda! ^_^ Wow...such a long review...*is in awe, wondering how the time to answer it will ever be found* Well, I shall get started! ^_^ Oh, I forgive you. ^_^ Lol, yes he did. *breaks into hysterical giggling at the Adam's pain reference* Man...that's funny. ^_^ if you watch that scene closely, you can see Connie mouthing the words Adam is saying. She's all like, "I woke up, and the pain was gone!" It's so funny. Watch her mouth! I DARE YOU! ^_^ The pathetic-ness that almost all of the ff.net stories are IS pathetic. ^_^ Lol, yeah. Pa...per? *thinks hard, staring blankly forward* Yes, I am seeing it...I think...yes, I think I might remember. Now that I think of it, I am going to be forced to use this prehistoric method as well. I have now officially limited to an hour a night. Gosh, it's takes me an hour to answer reviews and write A LITTLE BIT of a chapter...o.O...that's not even including the stores I read and review! Lol, yeah. I have my own account on the comp and my bro is away at college so I don't worry. Lol...it's okay to be paranoid. I dunno who their coach would be...maybe that Varsity Coach on the movie...Coach Wilson, wasn't it? Oh well. Making one up would be MUCH more fun. ^_^ Yeah, Orion and Bombay would notice...I LOVE your story summary. ^_^ YIPPEE! You're gonna start the Charlie Angst one soon! WHEEE! ^_^ Yet another on the scoreboard for Charlie angst! Eek...busy-ness curse are un-cool...Lol...I guess I can forgive you. ^_^ Lol, you're a bright one. *giggles at your Kate On Ice With A Stick With A Protruding End statement* Yes, that wouldn't be very smart. I don't even TRY to skate with anything in my hands. I'm impaired enough as it is! I can barely skate without falling, much less could I ever skate and whack people with a big stick as I try to shoot a little black thing into a goal at the same time! It just wouldn't happen. The first time I was on the ice since I was in like the third grade, I tripped and fell because I (somehow) started thinking of Charlie and his coolness. Seriously, I was like off in my little world thinking of Charlie and then WHAM! I'm on the ice and my hands are so cold their burning. ^_^ It wasn't fun. But then I finally regained some form of coordination and balance and managed to go the rest of the time without falling. Yes! Yay for you! You made me happy. ^_^ And trust me, you DON'T want to read the book we did...now we're reading one called "The Old Man And The Sea"...*sarcastically* doesn't that just sound like a party? We also started reading Romeo and Juliet. I swear, Shakespeare uses far too many big flowery words...my brain hurts...*giggles* You've got the power, huh? ^_^ Ooo Bruce Almighty. I like that movie! ^_^ It was funny. *giggles and sings with Kate again*...*is in awe at clapping* Wow...that was beautiful. YEAH! I FELT IT!!!! ^_^ Lol, yes...reciting entire McDonalds commercials is sad...^_^ But you are definitely one cool chick for doing it! ^_^ Yes, George is stupid...Lol...*reads about Charlie-Accident Bruises* MWAHAHA! They WON'T know! *evil author laugh*...and I will use that to my advantage...*evil smile*...*realizes strange looks* I um...mean...uh...you weren't supposed to know that...o.O...uhhh...anyway. Yes, at least he tried. Lol, of COURSE you're worth somethin'. Lol, I thought your suggestion was funny. And I was THAT CLOSE to using it. But then I realized that maybe that wasn't the best idea. ^_^ That might be stretching Charlie sanity a little too much. *giggles* Yes, you are poetic. *paints phrase on board and hangs it around her neck on a plank with a heart containing the name 'Charlie' to match Kate* Lol. Ooo evilness! ^_^ Oh yes, I can tell. ^_^ Really? Lol, I'm Texan and I say 'Eh' sometimes...but usually while trying to do an accent. ^_^ I usually stick with 'Huh'...lol. *falls over laughing too* I love accents. Especially funny ones. ^_^ I also like Australian accents. Lol. Yes, I did use your school name. ^_^ Lol, in fact, in some strange logic I got the squirrel name From your school name. Something about "Royal Orchard" made me think "Squirrel"...lol...don't ask me how. Lol, he will tell them eventually...just not right now. ^_^ Hehehe...glass bottle don't be good. Lol, and George is, indeed, a creep. Yes, that he is. Lol, you're pretty sharp! ^_^ Awww thank you for all the lovely compliments! ^_^ Eek! The wrath of KATE! EEEP! *hurries up and tries to update, even though has been restricted to an hour a day* Oh, and I wrote another story. It's about Charlie and it's going to become a Charlie/Julie fic. I don't know your standings on Charlie and Julie fics, but it you wanted to read and review it, your support would be greatly appreciated! ^_^ *hint hint, nudge nudge* Love ya lots!
Allie- Lol, thanks for reviewing! ^_^
Adriana- Lol, nice theory. ^_^ George IS her boss, but as for his job...it's still undecided. ^_^ I'm having trouble deciding which suggestion to go with. But you are actually pretty close with the whole 'he got Charlie easily' thing. ^_^ Good job! Lol, and thanks for BOTH reviews! I love you lots! ^_^
Disclaimer- Me no own Mighty Ducks.
-Chapter 20-
Charlie took a sharp intake of breath and slipped his plaid over shirt back on.
"What happened when I left?" he asked quietly.
April's composure fell slightly. She looked sad. "Your father fired us. He thought we were provoking you." she said with a light laugh.
"YOU provoking ME? Now if THAT isn't the stupidest thing I've ever heard. That is such a load of bull! If anything, I was provoking you guys." He said, laughing bitterly.
"I know. He knew that too. I think he just wanted an excuse to get angry." She said, leaning back against the bench.
Charlie nodded. "Wouldn't surprise me." Charlie was glad he had someone to talk to. Even if that person was a thirty-something-year-old woman who was just fired from her job because of his reckless and immature behavior.
"You doin' okay?" she asked softly, turning her gaze to him.
He leaned back against the bench uncomfortably.
"Yeah, of course. Why?" he asked as calmly as he could. No, he wasn't doing all that great but she had enough to worry about. They all did.
"You sure? 'Cause he's known to have quite a temper and tends to well...get a little violent when he's angry." She said softly.
Charlie unconsciously flinched. "No, no problem. None at all."
She didn't look completely convinced. "No violence at all? He didn't break anything or sling out threats?" she asked in a shocked tone.
"Of course not." He lied through his teeth. He wasn't sure exactly why he was lying to her. She obviously already knew so there was really no point. Charlie just wasn't quite yet ready to admit that his dad was bordering on creepy. Or maybe he wanted to believe that his dad was NO LONGER bordering on creepy like he had when they had first met. He wanted to be normal again and that wouldn't help.
She frowned but tried to believe him. The uncertainty in his eyes spoke volumes but she wouldn't pass judgment or accuse him of lying.
After a few moments of uncomfortable silence, Charlie spoke up.
"Would you happen to know where Alyssa lives?" he asked softly.
April nodded. She then proceeded to explain the directions to the girl's home. He nodded and thanked her before heading off on his way.
~~~*~~~
Julie lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling. Her eyes were watery and she was getting depressed. Scooter had just broken up with her and ever since Connie and Guy had gotten back together, the other female Duck was nowhere to be seen.
Everyone had gotten really busy lately. She figured it was to get their minds off of Charlie. In the process, it had left Julie with far too much time to think about the missing Captain. He hadn't called anyone since well...the first and last time he called. They had heard every word of the argument between Charlie and his father and they were all worried sick.
The only thing keeping them sane was the chance that Gordon Bombay could bring him back. The former peewee hockey coach had told them of his visit to the judge's office and explained there was a chance they could file a case on abuse against Mr. Conway and they were going to try and do it.
Whenever she had been reminded of the whole 'abuse' angle, Julie had felt an extreme wave of sadness overtake her. She felt so sorry for him. She and Charlie hadn't been the closest in the world, but he was still an important part in all their lives. He was their leader.
She had felt a bond to him at the death of his mother. She wanted nothing more than to ease his pain and make him feel better. He was so crushed, and she felt helpless to comfort him. She had never experienced a death in the family or the death of a friend's family member.
She had done her best to make him feel better before he left. Everything seemed incomplete and empty without him. This was different from him quitting the team because he didn't agree with the coach. This wasn't even the same as Dean Portman choosing to stay in Chicago instead of starting his Freshman year with them. Not that those weren't both unpleasant, it was just that he didn't WANT to go, and they knew his father was obviously not of an acute mental state.
A solitary tear ran down her cheek. She quickly wiped it away. She couldn't let anyone see her cry. Not that she really thought anyone would ACTUALLY come in; she just didn't want to cry.
She sat up on her bed and reached over to the phone, her hand hovering mere inches above it. She hesitated. Did she REALLY want to call him? What if his dad picked up? She didn't really want to talk to Mr. Conway. She figured she would somehow end up giving a piece of her mind.
'C'mon Julie, it isn't that big of a deal. Just call.' She coached herself as she picked up the phone. She felt silly agonizing over a simple phone call.
She eventually picked up the phone and pulled out a piece of paper. Adam had written down Charlie's number and given to everyone as soon as he had the chance to check his call history. She quickly punched in each number and held the phone tentatively to her ear as it rang.
It wasn't too long before she heard someone pick up the phone.
'Whatever you're selling I don't want it.' She heard the voice say angrily from the other side.
"Um, is Charlie there?" she asked timidly. Julie wasn't usually the timid type, but this guy scared them all. Well, not Portman or Fulton. They just flat out hated him.
'No, he left a while ago. Anything else you need?' he asked gruffly from the other side of the phone line. He didn't want to spend any more time then necessary listening to his son's annoying friends. You would think they would get the hint when you fled the state...
She shook her head before realizing he couldn't see her. "N-no, sir. That was all. Could you, um, tell him Julie called?" she asked as politely as she could.
'No. Then he would feel compelled to call you back and he would spend hours racking up my phone bill. I don't want you bratty kids calling here anymore, ya hear?' he asked as he hung up the phone, leaving Julie alone on the other end of the line.
She bit her lip and hung up the phone dejectedly. She let out another sigh and fell back onto her bed. She saw a picture of her and Scooter, looking happy and smiling.
Her eyes glazed over again and she put the picture face down. Where had things gone wrong with Scooter? She thought he had really liked her. She had felt a connection with him that she hadn't felt with anyone else before.
Suddenly, Connie burst in through the door in a cheery mood. "Hey Jules. Why are the lights off?" she asked, flipping them on. The bright light flooded in and Julie covered her eyes.
Before Julie could reply, Connie continued. "You need to get out of this room. You haven't done anything in forever." Connie said, taking her hair down from a ponytail and running a brush through it.
Once she had finished, Connie turned to face the blonde girl. "You know what? You should come to dinner with us tonight. And don't worry; before you say it, you won't be imposing. It isn't just Guy and I. Some for the other guys are coming too."
"I don't really feel like it. Scooter just broke up with me." Julie said, as she laid her head on the pillow.
"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that..." Connie said as she sat down to comfort Julie, telling her Scooter wasn't worth it anyway and all that other stuff you tell your friend after a breakup.
~~~*~~~
Charlie stepped up onto the porch and knocked. It was a very small, rundown house. April had driven him there because it was so far away. He would have never been able to make there before dark if he had been walking. She gave him her phone number and told him to call her whenever he needed a ride home.
A woman who looked vaguely familiar answered the door.
She blinked in confusion when she was faced with a teenage boy.
"Um..." Charlie started, not knowing exactly what do now that he was actually there. "Um, is Alyssa here?" he asked, finally remembering why he was even there.
The woman raised her eyebrows and nodded. "Yes she is. You may come in if you'd like." She said reluctantly. She just hoped he wasn't a mad serial killer aiming to murder everyone in the house.
The woman then walked down the hall, knocked on a door, and called out for Alyssa.
The seventeen-year-old girl stepped out of the room in confusion. She was even more confused when her mother motioned to the door only to find Charlie.
"Charlie?!" she exclaimed in confusion.
"Hey Alyssa. I hope I'm not intruding..." he said, feeling profoundly uncomfortable.
"Oh, no! Not at all! I'm just wondering what you're doing here. Isn't it a school night?" she asked, looking at the clock.
"Yeah, I guess I just wanted to see how you were doing and find out what happened after I left this morning." He said, shrugging.
Alyssa's mom was now officially confused. "What? Huh?" she asked herself quietly.
Alyssa turned to her mother. "This," she said, pointing to Charlie, "is Charlie Conway."
Her mother nodded. "Your ex-boss's son?" she asked, raising an eyebrow skeptically.
Alyssa grinned. "Yeah. This would be him. He's a nice kid." She said, patting Charlie on the head jokingly.
He swatted away her hand. "You say this like I'm two years old." He said with mock anger, crossing his arms.
"You mean you aren't? I thought you were. You know, with that extremely immature act you threw together and all." She said with a smile.
"Ha ha, funny funny. Speaking of this morning, what happened?" he asked again.
Alyssa let out a sigh and prepared to relay the rest of the morning. But when she opened her mouth, her voice wasn't heard. Instead, the squealing of a young girl echoed throughout the house as she flung herself on Charlie's leg.
Taken by surprise, Charlie fell backwards and hit his head on the closed door.
"CHARLIE! How'd you find my house? Do you know my sister?" the little girl asked, speaking a mile a minute.
To get her to stop, his clamped her mouth shut with his hand. "Calm down, let me answer the first two questions. Yes, I know your sister and someone I know told me were she lived because I needed to talk to her." Charlie explained, recognizing the little girl as 'Brittany from the park.'
Alyssa cocked an eyebrow. "How do you know my little sister?" she asked.
"I met her at the park this morning when I was sulking and drowning myself in self-pity. She actually somehow convinced me that it was in my best interest to go on to school." He explained as the small blonde girl let go of him.
"Ah, I see. Quite a persuasive little thing, aren't ya Brit?" she asked her younger sister, who only smiled in return.
"He was all messy and smelled like syrup." She said, grinning.
That sent Charlie and Alyssa laughing. "Yeah, I was, wasn't I? That was right after our little food fight and I looked like a walking breakfast menu gone wrong." He said as he and Alyssa broke into hurdles of laughter again.
He stayed about another hour before calling April to take him back home. Charlie had found out how his father had fired all of them with no more reason then they 'weren't doing their jobs' and 'were provoking him.' It was no less crazy to Charlie after hearing it a second time. He decided he would do everything in his power to get them their jobs back. However, he still was convinced his dad needed to seek mental help.
Quickly, if possible.
I just noticed something. I was building up to this one part that was supposed to be the main part and I'm not even there yet after TWENTY chapters...lol...oh well, who cares. ^_^ I diddle WAY too much on details. But I guess that's a good thing. That means this will be going on much longer than I anticipated. Not that I'm complaining. ^_^
Liz- Yeah, Charlie's dad and the Varsity are both meanies. Lol, ALL HAIL THE SQUIRRELS! ^_^ Yeah, that TASP doesn't sound very fun...but at least we got to watch D2 and D3! ^_^ Lol, well I'm glad you are enjoying it. And yes, Cam would probably shoot you. Lol, EXACTLY!
Snorts90- Lol, yes...Charlie's dad is a psycho...dun dun dun!
Banksiebabe99- Lol, yes...that would be the bright thing to do. But hey, my story would be very interesting if the characters had ANY common sense at all. Lol. ^_^ yes, I kinda miss the Ducks too. ^_^
SpikeytheBunny- Really? WOW! Thank you so much! That really makes me feel good! ^_^Yes, Demonic George is back! Dun dun DUN! Lol, I would love too, but as with goerge, I must finish the fic first. THEN you have all rights to beating them up. ^_^ Yes, poor maids. *cries for maids* NO ONE IS SAFE FROM MY WRATH!!!! Lol, George and his psychotic bottle-smashing. Lol, I would have NEVER guessed that you liked Charlie angst! ^_^ yes, it shall get worse...DUN DUN DUN! Lol. Aw, I love you too! *hugs* You're so sweet to me! YYYYEEEEEEESSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!! You updated with a LONG chapter! *dances around giddily, screaming in happiness* YAY!!!!!!! I'm so happy! And your REVIEW has made my day SO MUCH BETTER! ^_^ Hey, and I don't know where you stand on Duck-Couples, but I'm writing a Charlie/Julie fic and I wanted to know if you would read and review it for me. It's kind of a 'warp into the mind of eleven-year-old Charlie Conway.' It's a scary place to be. ^_^ Anyway, just wanted to inform you that I would love you forever if you did! ^_^ *checks reviews for it* Oh...you already did.lol...^_^ You read my mind! *does happy dance* Thank you! And by the way, congrats on breaking 100 reviews! I'm insanely jealous that you broke 100 with TEN chapters while it took me THRITEEN! *hugs you anyway* But I still love you! ^_^
DodgerMcClure.aka.Drama-Queen- Lol, yes, Charlie DID get the raw end of the deal. Thanks for reviewing!
Chronicles Bailey- Charlie is your least favorite character? How sad! Well at least you love him now...I personally don't think he's ugly...I think he's hot. *wipes away tear* But we are all entitled to our own opinions. Lol. Thanks for reviewing! ^_^
Kate the Great- Ooo...that rhymed kinda! ^_^ Wow...such a long review...*is in awe, wondering how the time to answer it will ever be found* Well, I shall get started! ^_^ Oh, I forgive you. ^_^ Lol, yes he did. *breaks into hysterical giggling at the Adam's pain reference* Man...that's funny. ^_^ if you watch that scene closely, you can see Connie mouthing the words Adam is saying. She's all like, "I woke up, and the pain was gone!" It's so funny. Watch her mouth! I DARE YOU! ^_^ The pathetic-ness that almost all of the ff.net stories are IS pathetic. ^_^ Lol, yeah. Pa...per? *thinks hard, staring blankly forward* Yes, I am seeing it...I think...yes, I think I might remember. Now that I think of it, I am going to be forced to use this prehistoric method as well. I have now officially limited to an hour a night. Gosh, it's takes me an hour to answer reviews and write A LITTLE BIT of a chapter...o.O...that's not even including the stores I read and review! Lol, yeah. I have my own account on the comp and my bro is away at college so I don't worry. Lol...it's okay to be paranoid. I dunno who their coach would be...maybe that Varsity Coach on the movie...Coach Wilson, wasn't it? Oh well. Making one up would be MUCH more fun. ^_^ Yeah, Orion and Bombay would notice...I LOVE your story summary. ^_^ YIPPEE! You're gonna start the Charlie Angst one soon! WHEEE! ^_^ Yet another on the scoreboard for Charlie angst! Eek...busy-ness curse are un-cool...Lol...I guess I can forgive you. ^_^ Lol, you're a bright one. *giggles at your Kate On Ice With A Stick With A Protruding End statement* Yes, that wouldn't be very smart. I don't even TRY to skate with anything in my hands. I'm impaired enough as it is! I can barely skate without falling, much less could I ever skate and whack people with a big stick as I try to shoot a little black thing into a goal at the same time! It just wouldn't happen. The first time I was on the ice since I was in like the third grade, I tripped and fell because I (somehow) started thinking of Charlie and his coolness. Seriously, I was like off in my little world thinking of Charlie and then WHAM! I'm on the ice and my hands are so cold their burning. ^_^ It wasn't fun. But then I finally regained some form of coordination and balance and managed to go the rest of the time without falling. Yes! Yay for you! You made me happy. ^_^ And trust me, you DON'T want to read the book we did...now we're reading one called "The Old Man And The Sea"...*sarcastically* doesn't that just sound like a party? We also started reading Romeo and Juliet. I swear, Shakespeare uses far too many big flowery words...my brain hurts...*giggles* You've got the power, huh? ^_^ Ooo Bruce Almighty. I like that movie! ^_^ It was funny. *giggles and sings with Kate again*...*is in awe at clapping* Wow...that was beautiful. YEAH! I FELT IT!!!! ^_^ Lol, yes...reciting entire McDonalds commercials is sad...^_^ But you are definitely one cool chick for doing it! ^_^ Yes, George is stupid...Lol...*reads about Charlie-Accident Bruises* MWAHAHA! They WON'T know! *evil author laugh*...and I will use that to my advantage...*evil smile*...*realizes strange looks* I um...mean...uh...you weren't supposed to know that...o.O...uhhh...anyway. Yes, at least he tried. Lol, of COURSE you're worth somethin'. Lol, I thought your suggestion was funny. And I was THAT CLOSE to using it. But then I realized that maybe that wasn't the best idea. ^_^ That might be stretching Charlie sanity a little too much. *giggles* Yes, you are poetic. *paints phrase on board and hangs it around her neck on a plank with a heart containing the name 'Charlie' to match Kate* Lol. Ooo evilness! ^_^ Oh yes, I can tell. ^_^ Really? Lol, I'm Texan and I say 'Eh' sometimes...but usually while trying to do an accent. ^_^ I usually stick with 'Huh'...lol. *falls over laughing too* I love accents. Especially funny ones. ^_^ I also like Australian accents. Lol. Yes, I did use your school name. ^_^ Lol, in fact, in some strange logic I got the squirrel name From your school name. Something about "Royal Orchard" made me think "Squirrel"...lol...don't ask me how. Lol, he will tell them eventually...just not right now. ^_^ Hehehe...glass bottle don't be good. Lol, and George is, indeed, a creep. Yes, that he is. Lol, you're pretty sharp! ^_^ Awww thank you for all the lovely compliments! ^_^ Eek! The wrath of KATE! EEEP! *hurries up and tries to update, even though has been restricted to an hour a day* Oh, and I wrote another story. It's about Charlie and it's going to become a Charlie/Julie fic. I don't know your standings on Charlie and Julie fics, but it you wanted to read and review it, your support would be greatly appreciated! ^_^ *hint hint, nudge nudge* Love ya lots!
Allie- Lol, thanks for reviewing! ^_^
Adriana- Lol, nice theory. ^_^ George IS her boss, but as for his job...it's still undecided. ^_^ I'm having trouble deciding which suggestion to go with. But you are actually pretty close with the whole 'he got Charlie easily' thing. ^_^ Good job! Lol, and thanks for BOTH reviews! I love you lots! ^_^
Disclaimer- Me no own Mighty Ducks.
-Chapter 20-
Charlie took a sharp intake of breath and slipped his plaid over shirt back on.
"What happened when I left?" he asked quietly.
April's composure fell slightly. She looked sad. "Your father fired us. He thought we were provoking you." she said with a light laugh.
"YOU provoking ME? Now if THAT isn't the stupidest thing I've ever heard. That is such a load of bull! If anything, I was provoking you guys." He said, laughing bitterly.
"I know. He knew that too. I think he just wanted an excuse to get angry." She said, leaning back against the bench.
Charlie nodded. "Wouldn't surprise me." Charlie was glad he had someone to talk to. Even if that person was a thirty-something-year-old woman who was just fired from her job because of his reckless and immature behavior.
"You doin' okay?" she asked softly, turning her gaze to him.
He leaned back against the bench uncomfortably.
"Yeah, of course. Why?" he asked as calmly as he could. No, he wasn't doing all that great but she had enough to worry about. They all did.
"You sure? 'Cause he's known to have quite a temper and tends to well...get a little violent when he's angry." She said softly.
Charlie unconsciously flinched. "No, no problem. None at all."
She didn't look completely convinced. "No violence at all? He didn't break anything or sling out threats?" she asked in a shocked tone.
"Of course not." He lied through his teeth. He wasn't sure exactly why he was lying to her. She obviously already knew so there was really no point. Charlie just wasn't quite yet ready to admit that his dad was bordering on creepy. Or maybe he wanted to believe that his dad was NO LONGER bordering on creepy like he had when they had first met. He wanted to be normal again and that wouldn't help.
She frowned but tried to believe him. The uncertainty in his eyes spoke volumes but she wouldn't pass judgment or accuse him of lying.
After a few moments of uncomfortable silence, Charlie spoke up.
"Would you happen to know where Alyssa lives?" he asked softly.
April nodded. She then proceeded to explain the directions to the girl's home. He nodded and thanked her before heading off on his way.
~~~*~~~
Julie lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling. Her eyes were watery and she was getting depressed. Scooter had just broken up with her and ever since Connie and Guy had gotten back together, the other female Duck was nowhere to be seen.
Everyone had gotten really busy lately. She figured it was to get their minds off of Charlie. In the process, it had left Julie with far too much time to think about the missing Captain. He hadn't called anyone since well...the first and last time he called. They had heard every word of the argument between Charlie and his father and they were all worried sick.
The only thing keeping them sane was the chance that Gordon Bombay could bring him back. The former peewee hockey coach had told them of his visit to the judge's office and explained there was a chance they could file a case on abuse against Mr. Conway and they were going to try and do it.
Whenever she had been reminded of the whole 'abuse' angle, Julie had felt an extreme wave of sadness overtake her. She felt so sorry for him. She and Charlie hadn't been the closest in the world, but he was still an important part in all their lives. He was their leader.
She had felt a bond to him at the death of his mother. She wanted nothing more than to ease his pain and make him feel better. He was so crushed, and she felt helpless to comfort him. She had never experienced a death in the family or the death of a friend's family member.
She had done her best to make him feel better before he left. Everything seemed incomplete and empty without him. This was different from him quitting the team because he didn't agree with the coach. This wasn't even the same as Dean Portman choosing to stay in Chicago instead of starting his Freshman year with them. Not that those weren't both unpleasant, it was just that he didn't WANT to go, and they knew his father was obviously not of an acute mental state.
A solitary tear ran down her cheek. She quickly wiped it away. She couldn't let anyone see her cry. Not that she really thought anyone would ACTUALLY come in; she just didn't want to cry.
She sat up on her bed and reached over to the phone, her hand hovering mere inches above it. She hesitated. Did she REALLY want to call him? What if his dad picked up? She didn't really want to talk to Mr. Conway. She figured she would somehow end up giving a piece of her mind.
'C'mon Julie, it isn't that big of a deal. Just call.' She coached herself as she picked up the phone. She felt silly agonizing over a simple phone call.
She eventually picked up the phone and pulled out a piece of paper. Adam had written down Charlie's number and given to everyone as soon as he had the chance to check his call history. She quickly punched in each number and held the phone tentatively to her ear as it rang.
It wasn't too long before she heard someone pick up the phone.
'Whatever you're selling I don't want it.' She heard the voice say angrily from the other side.
"Um, is Charlie there?" she asked timidly. Julie wasn't usually the timid type, but this guy scared them all. Well, not Portman or Fulton. They just flat out hated him.
'No, he left a while ago. Anything else you need?' he asked gruffly from the other side of the phone line. He didn't want to spend any more time then necessary listening to his son's annoying friends. You would think they would get the hint when you fled the state...
She shook her head before realizing he couldn't see her. "N-no, sir. That was all. Could you, um, tell him Julie called?" she asked as politely as she could.
'No. Then he would feel compelled to call you back and he would spend hours racking up my phone bill. I don't want you bratty kids calling here anymore, ya hear?' he asked as he hung up the phone, leaving Julie alone on the other end of the line.
She bit her lip and hung up the phone dejectedly. She let out another sigh and fell back onto her bed. She saw a picture of her and Scooter, looking happy and smiling.
Her eyes glazed over again and she put the picture face down. Where had things gone wrong with Scooter? She thought he had really liked her. She had felt a connection with him that she hadn't felt with anyone else before.
Suddenly, Connie burst in through the door in a cheery mood. "Hey Jules. Why are the lights off?" she asked, flipping them on. The bright light flooded in and Julie covered her eyes.
Before Julie could reply, Connie continued. "You need to get out of this room. You haven't done anything in forever." Connie said, taking her hair down from a ponytail and running a brush through it.
Once she had finished, Connie turned to face the blonde girl. "You know what? You should come to dinner with us tonight. And don't worry; before you say it, you won't be imposing. It isn't just Guy and I. Some for the other guys are coming too."
"I don't really feel like it. Scooter just broke up with me." Julie said, as she laid her head on the pillow.
"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that..." Connie said as she sat down to comfort Julie, telling her Scooter wasn't worth it anyway and all that other stuff you tell your friend after a breakup.
~~~*~~~
Charlie stepped up onto the porch and knocked. It was a very small, rundown house. April had driven him there because it was so far away. He would have never been able to make there before dark if he had been walking. She gave him her phone number and told him to call her whenever he needed a ride home.
A woman who looked vaguely familiar answered the door.
She blinked in confusion when she was faced with a teenage boy.
"Um..." Charlie started, not knowing exactly what do now that he was actually there. "Um, is Alyssa here?" he asked, finally remembering why he was even there.
The woman raised her eyebrows and nodded. "Yes she is. You may come in if you'd like." She said reluctantly. She just hoped he wasn't a mad serial killer aiming to murder everyone in the house.
The woman then walked down the hall, knocked on a door, and called out for Alyssa.
The seventeen-year-old girl stepped out of the room in confusion. She was even more confused when her mother motioned to the door only to find Charlie.
"Charlie?!" she exclaimed in confusion.
"Hey Alyssa. I hope I'm not intruding..." he said, feeling profoundly uncomfortable.
"Oh, no! Not at all! I'm just wondering what you're doing here. Isn't it a school night?" she asked, looking at the clock.
"Yeah, I guess I just wanted to see how you were doing and find out what happened after I left this morning." He said, shrugging.
Alyssa's mom was now officially confused. "What? Huh?" she asked herself quietly.
Alyssa turned to her mother. "This," she said, pointing to Charlie, "is Charlie Conway."
Her mother nodded. "Your ex-boss's son?" she asked, raising an eyebrow skeptically.
Alyssa grinned. "Yeah. This would be him. He's a nice kid." She said, patting Charlie on the head jokingly.
He swatted away her hand. "You say this like I'm two years old." He said with mock anger, crossing his arms.
"You mean you aren't? I thought you were. You know, with that extremely immature act you threw together and all." She said with a smile.
"Ha ha, funny funny. Speaking of this morning, what happened?" he asked again.
Alyssa let out a sigh and prepared to relay the rest of the morning. But when she opened her mouth, her voice wasn't heard. Instead, the squealing of a young girl echoed throughout the house as she flung herself on Charlie's leg.
Taken by surprise, Charlie fell backwards and hit his head on the closed door.
"CHARLIE! How'd you find my house? Do you know my sister?" the little girl asked, speaking a mile a minute.
To get her to stop, his clamped her mouth shut with his hand. "Calm down, let me answer the first two questions. Yes, I know your sister and someone I know told me were she lived because I needed to talk to her." Charlie explained, recognizing the little girl as 'Brittany from the park.'
Alyssa cocked an eyebrow. "How do you know my little sister?" she asked.
"I met her at the park this morning when I was sulking and drowning myself in self-pity. She actually somehow convinced me that it was in my best interest to go on to school." He explained as the small blonde girl let go of him.
"Ah, I see. Quite a persuasive little thing, aren't ya Brit?" she asked her younger sister, who only smiled in return.
"He was all messy and smelled like syrup." She said, grinning.
That sent Charlie and Alyssa laughing. "Yeah, I was, wasn't I? That was right after our little food fight and I looked like a walking breakfast menu gone wrong." He said as he and Alyssa broke into hurdles of laughter again.
He stayed about another hour before calling April to take him back home. Charlie had found out how his father had fired all of them with no more reason then they 'weren't doing their jobs' and 'were provoking him.' It was no less crazy to Charlie after hearing it a second time. He decided he would do everything in his power to get them their jobs back. However, he still was convinced his dad needed to seek mental help.
Quickly, if possible.
