VERY IMPORTANT A/N: Okay, as you all should know, this story is rated R,
and if you havn't figured out why yet, you will know in this chapter. It
contains very sensitive material, and we are warning you to be mature about
it. If you can't handle it, don't read it. Basically, if you flame
/I chapter, and only this chapter, "you will get your head chewed
off", and both of us feel the same on this issue. If anyone has any beefs
about this or the way this chapter is done, you can email us personally.
Seriously, we have our reasons for asking this of all of you so just go
along with it. Lets just say, not only is this sensitive in general, you
don't want to tango with us on this one. So, you've been given warning, now
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Tensleep: I made your day? Hooray! But I do have to say that if I made your day...then you made mine even more. I was having a horrible day when I got your reviews, and it made me VERY happy. Okay, since I don't think I ever answered the review from Chapter 11, or did I? Its been sooo long...Anyway, since I didn't answer that, here goes. This is pretty funny, because Keira has a ton of brothers, and I have a few myself, but neither of us has a sister. We both had to laugh about that, don't ask us how we pulled it off, I guess its because we did the opposite of our experiences with our brothers, and all of our really good friends ONLY have sisters, so we are around the sisterly fights a ton. So there goes that. Yeah, Reesa's back up and going, cleaning, yelling, and giving hell to anyone who enters 'her' house. HAHA. Hope you enjoy this next chapter, and REALLY I will update pretty quick on this next part...assuming my computer keeps working and my dad doesn't dump it. Enjoy and let me know what you think.
Oblivious Misconception: Well, here comes the first moment of truth...the speculation ends...kinda. It takes a lot to wrap this whole thing up, but you'll get the general idea, so you wont be speculating as much, you'll just have other questions as each chapter gets updated. Don't hate me, please! I think you'll like this next part...so read on and enjoy! Oh, and thanks for the extensive review on chapter ten that I never got, I understand, I wouldn't have taken the time to rewrite all that either, but Im sure it would have been good. Anyhow, have fun reading!
Sodapop'll-be-mine: Im really happy that you like it! I like it to, but I tend to be a little biased towards it...*smiles*. Here goes the next chapter, have fun reading it and figuring everything out! Sorry it took me forever to update, the story is really long. See Ya!
Okay, have a good time reading! I swear I will update soon. I had a really crazy few weeks, what with date dances (which here are all day big affairs) and homework, work, wonderful health crap, and life in general I didn't have time until Friday. Then due to my great luck, when I finally did have time to update my computer was whacked, then the internet went down, and to top that off once it was up I had the ever lasting joy of competing for the computer with four other people spending hours on email and stuff. So yeah, sorry, but I plan to update very soon, like tomorrow or something before I get real busy with life again. So, have a great time reading, and let us know what you think...unless of course you hate it, then you can keep your mouth shut or bring it up with us in an e-mail, but don't expect to get off easy.
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Chapter 13 (Darry's POV)
"Hey, Rees?" I asked as I walked into the kitchen where she was busy making herself some oatmeal. She was the only other person who even considered waking up early, weekend or not. It was nice not being the only one awake, you know.
"Yeah?" She was rummaging through the cabinets for a bowl and a cup. She was being picky about which ones she used.
"I'm gonna /I and run a few errands before I go to work. I need to know if you need any more of the antibiotics." I really didn't have the money, but I couldn't deny her of something she needed. Especially if it meant preventing further poisoning.
"Nope." She found what she was looking for and went to drop them on the table. She went back to the stove and stirred the oats.
"Good. Do you think you'll need anything at all? Period?" I might as well get all excess shopping done while I am doing it, right?
"Uh.... No. Not now."
"Good. All right. Well, I have to go now, so I guess I'll see you later...maybe." Most likely not because it's Sunday and I work all day and whatever shopping I don't finish I have to do later.
"'Kay. See ya."
I left the kitchen, grabbed my jacket and keys and headed for the door. Before I got there, however, I passed by the couch where I noticed Skye was asleep. Soda had told me, before turning in, that he had left her out there and I could move her if I wanted. But I saw no point in doing that so I left her there too. I was in bed and I didn't care to get up.
She didn't look too good. She looked down right bad. Her skin was flushed and sweaty and she was shaking. Damn. I wish I would've caught on earlier. I mean I noticed a little yesterday, but I know she wasn't /I bad until now.
"Reesa?" I called into the kitchen.
"What?" she asked in a singsong voice. "Shouldn't you be gone?"
"Yes. Hey, I need you to check and see if we have any flu medicine." I really didn't want to buy any if I could help it. Money was going to have to be tight for a little while if we didn't want to go into debt. First Reesa and then Ponyboy. I didn't need for Skye to end up there too.
"Hold on." She was silent for a minute while she went into the bathroom and looked through the medicine cabinet. "Yeah, we do. Why?" She came out to the living room so she wouldn't have to yell halfway across the house.
"I think Skye might need it. I don't know that she has the flu, but if it's the same symptoms, won't the medicine work the same?" It should, shouldn't it? It would only make sense.
"Oh God. Darry, don't tell me you believe all this. It's an act. You have to know that." She crossed her arms and stared up at me. "She's been doing this all weekend."
"Which is exactly why I don't think she's faking. Friday was up in the air because she wasn't showing it and it was a school day. Yesterday she was flushed and tired and now look at her. So, will it work either way?"
"Yes, but, Darry, think about--"
"Reesa. Why are you two at each other's throats? Just because you're pissed at her for some reason doesn't mean she can't be sick for real." Come on. Let there be some peace and quiet for once. I hate contention. It stresses me for absolutely no reason at all.
"It's nothing, Dar. I'll make sure she takes some. Just leave so you aren't late for work." She shoved me towards the door, or she tried to anyway. She wasn't very successful, mainly because I wanted a straight answer and that was far from one.
"Really? It's nothing?"
"Yes! We're just fine. I don't know what you're talking about. Just leave. Everything's fine."
I've never heard such a lie come from her, but you know -- whatever.
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(Skye's POV)
"Soda! You're going to be late!"
"I know!"
"Where are you going?"
"To work, stupid."
"I'm not stupid, Reesa!"
"Yes, you are."
"Drop it, guys."
"Hurry, Soda!"
"I am! Calm down! I can risk being five minutes late. Don't worry!"
"When are you coming back?"
"...When I get off."
"When's that?"
"When he's off! How stupid do you get, Ponyboy?"
"SHUT UP!" I yelled. Owwie, that hurt. My head was throbbing on one side. Much good my yelling did. No one listened to me as usual.
"I'm leaving..."
"Good. See you later."
"Where are you going, Soda?" I asked confused. I propped myself up on my elbows and squinted to find him in the room. The sudden brightness had caught me off guard.
"To work." He was running through the room pulling on his shoes and hat. "Bye, guys. Feel better, Pon! You too, Skye."
"What about me?" Reesa poked her head out the kitchen in mock hurt.
"What about you? Take a chill pill." He smirked and ran out the door and down the driveway where Steve was waiting to take him to work.
"Bye."
I laid back down wondering how late in the day it was. I knew that Soda didn't go to work on Sundays until the afternoon but there was no way I had slept that late. I admit I sleep in on weekends, but no one sleeps in until... whenever it was. Not me at least.
After a minute or two Reesa came in with a spoonful of red liquid and forced it down my throat. It was nasty. It was disgusting.
"What the hell are you doing? What is that? Rat poison?" God it left a bad after taste. Where's my water? You're supposed to let me have water after you attempt to poison me!
"Oh God. Yes, Skye, I'm poisoning you. You'll be dead by the end of the night. I guarantee it." She rolled her eyes at me and got up and started to leave.
"Wait! What's going on? What time is it?" I was so confused. I hate being left in the dark. It doesn't hurt to fill me in on things does it?
"It's three. Now leave me alone."
"Leave you alone? I haven't done anything! Tell me what I did!"
"You woke up."
"Oh, I'm sorry. I'll never do it again. How about that?"
"Fine by me."
"What the hell is with you, huh? What's crawled up your ass and decided to make camp?" Why wouldn't she cut me any slack? I didn't do anything to her that I know of and I would really appreciate it if she wouldn't bare down on me so much.
"Skye, whenever you feel like talking about it, go ahead, but until then I don't want anything to do with you. Now go back to sleep."
Go back to sleep?! I just woke up! I can't go to sleep now. Not with her yelling at me and not making any sense. "What am I not telling you, Rees?"
"How do I know?" she nearly yelled. Then she came closer to the couch and leaned down over the back near my head. "I swear if you don't start coughing up details soon I'm gonna tell Darry who jumped Ponyboy," she whispered. Who was going to eavesdrop? No one cared enough about our conversation to be listening anyway. And if she only said who it was who jumped Pony, then he'd remember for himself. What bad was there in that?
And suddenly it all came screaming back to me. I realized what she was talking about and why my stomach was so knotted. My goal to not see him, hear him, or come anywhere within ten miles of him for one day had been unsuccessful. The only reason I went to the movies last night was to not be home alone. Being alone scared me. Being alone made me vulnerable to anything that came my way and I hated it. So I went with the guys to the Nightly Double and loe and behold guess who was there? The pervert himself. Why I ever left the car in the first place was something I'd never remember. I should've known that with Dally and Steve there that I would've been fine, but I didn't feel that way about it.
I rubbed my eye with the back of my hand lightly and said, "Go right ahead."
She didn't say anything but stood up straighter and looked down at me.
"Can we turn on the damn heat? It's fall for crying out loud." What's wrong with these people? It's freezing in here!
"Skye, you have a fever and it is on. Trust me, it's on. Why else do you think I'd wear this?" I looked closer and noticed that all she was wearing was shorts and a belly-shirt. So maybe she was warm, but I sure wasn't. "Do you need another blanket?" I hadn't even realized I had one, but yes, another one would be nice.
"Sure. Why are you being so nice now?"
"Because I don't feel like getting my ass kicked when Darry comes home." She left and went to go get my extra blanket off my bed. It was a big fleece one and it felt really good to be wrapped up in. She threw it at me and I just let it fall into place on top of me. It was fairly good aim and I had to barely adjust it to make it more comfortable.
I fell back asleep before she could tell me to. It was very easy with all the soft, warm blankets and pillows all around me. It felt pretty good.
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(Reesa's POV)
I was so bored. Everyone was gone, Soda and Darry at least. They were at work, and Pony and Skye were both sick and out of it. I just made them stay in the their rooms so I could listen to the radio and watch a little TV. I mean, I had nowhere to go, although I wanted to go somewhere. Besides that, I had no one to go with, which was the more determining factor. I never went anywhere alone. It was too dangerous. Well, I did sometimes, but only if I had to.
To entertain myself I decided to go make some cake. It wasn't my favorite thing to do, but it was a little useful as it would get eaten, and it was something to do while I listened to rock and roll. Our house was way to quiet when people were sick. It drove me crazy at times. I'm one of those people that needs noise, to an extent.
I had just taken the cake out of the oven when I heard someone come into the house.
"Who's here?" I called out.
"Me." Yeah, that helped. It was Dally. Great.
"I'm in the kitchen." I yelled after he didn't come right in.
He stuck his head in the door next to me, "Yeah, I ain't deaf, Rees."
"I must have forgotten." I said smiling innocently.
"Hey, watch it." He said in a warning tone. But he wasn't all that mad. It was just me...okay the annoying little brat maybe, but just me all the same. He could deal with what I dished to him, even if he didn't like it. It was like when I made dinner, if you didn't like it you ate it anyway, no choice in the matter around here. I guess that depends more on my mood, but the point is that people take what I give them because it is all on my terms. Usually, I think.
"Where is everyone?" Dally reached around me and tried to take the cake. I swiped his hand away.
"Can't you see its still hot and not ready to eat yet? Hell." I was a little annoyed by that, and my voice said it but Dal just laughed at me as usual, "Soda and Darry are at work, like they always are on Sunday nights, where did you think they were?"
"What about Pony and Skye and the guys?"
"Pony and Skye are both sleeping. They're both sick. And how am I supposed to know where all of everyone is? I haven't hardly seen anyone but Skye today."
"I thought you said that Skye wasn't really sick. I mean, I didn't hear it from you, but I heard about the whole thing."
"Well, today she had a fever and she's been pretty sick, so I guess she is. Its just that she had no reason to come home on Friday. She's so weak, she has no pain tolerance."
"Well, Rees, you don't exactly have the lowest tolerance either. Its not her fault."
"She could at least try a little harder to deal with it." I don't know how she got to be part of this family. All the rest of us could deal with things, I mean physical injuries and stuff, like fighting. She couldn't fight, or handle pain, or any of that. No wonder Darry worried about her so much, and she wondered.
"Well, hey, I'm going to a party. You wanna come?"
"Uh...where's it at?"
"It's at Rob's place."
"Oh, then yeah. Give me a few minutes?"
"Sure, I'll find something to eat. Did you go shopping yet? Last time I tried to find something to eat in this house, there wasn't shit to eat."
"Yes, I went yesterday." I walked out of the room and went to change my shirt and pants. I had to look good and I hadn't put on anything decent that day. It took me only a few minutes, most of which was doing my hair and choosing the shirt I wanted to wear. I found a black tank top that fit me real good. It was tight, but just right and it made me look really skinny. I had a pair of jeans to, they were worn out, but once again, a pair that fit me more than perfectly. I pulled on my shoes, and went over to Skye.
"Hey, Skye." She didn't move, as usual. "Skye!" I yelled in her ear. Yeah, that didn't make a difference either. I tried everything from shaking her, to making her smell alcohol, to literally pulling her off the bed and watching her slam to the ground. I gave up after that and left her on the floor. What? She would survive. Hell, she was out cold.
I went over to Pony's room and stuck my head in, "Hey, Pony?"
He was fast asleep to. I knew he would be, but I hoped I could wake him up. I hadn't wanted to because I knew he had just fallen asleep and he had had the hardest time getting to sleep the last two days. Well, sorry, that ones down the drain. Maybe, if I was lucky, he would go back to sleep.
"Pony." I shook his shoulder a little, and he groaned. Thank goodness. "Hey, I'm going out, 'kay?"
"Huh? Where?"
"To a party. Tell Darry when he gets home that I'll be back in time for curfew. You'll be alright?"
"Yeah, sure."
He didn't move much as I left so I hoped he remembered the message and that he was going back to sleep.
I walked out into the living room and saw that Dally was drinking a beer and finishing off the last of the crackers he had in his hand, "You ready?"
"Yup." I was so glad to be leaving that house. I usually didn't mind being home, but it had been a long week and I needed to get out. So we left.
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(Skye's POV)
With everyone gone except Pony and me, I was feeling really bad. Not just sick bad, but really bad. I did feel sick, but that wasn't anything compared to the nerves and anxiety I felt. I knew I had to be overreacting but I was literally that scared. Scared that nothing would ever be normal again.
I can't even begin to tell you how it all started. I'm not sure I know the answer to that. I have an idea as to where it all began but I'm not sure.
First off, like all fifteen-year-old girls at my school, I thought I loved Miles. He's a gorgeous, dark haired, five foot ten inches, muscular hunk. He looks and acts like the type of guy who only wants to love you, protect you, and you just feel so safe around him. Fortunately enough for me -- that would be unfortunate now -- he reciprocated the feelings and asked me out on a date one day. And, like any warm blooded teenage girl, I said yes. Ponyboy, Reesa, and the rest of the gang told me to stay away from him but I saw no bad in him whatsoever. He was simply misunderstood, right?
Wrong.
After a couple of dates -- we never got around to be official boyfriend and girlfriend -- he started acting really weird and it was seriously creeping me out. He kept trying to make moves on me and it was pretty uncomfortable to say the least. For reasons beyond my control I have a reputation of being the bad girl who doesn't give a damn about anything and who is known for getting all up on the guys. That's not all that true. If anyone who made those assumptions took the time to get to know me, they'd have realized that I have never had an actually boyfriend and I've never done anything past a simple kiss. I don't think I've ever been to second base if truth be known. Thanks to the fact that I have several brothers and friends who would beat the guy whom even tried to touch me. Everyone knew that and I imagine that's why I've never had a boyfriend. They were all too scared. I think that's what got Miles' attention in the first place. Which part, you're wondering? All of it -- my reputation, my so-called innocence, and the fact that he likes anything that's worth taking a risk for.
As time went on I was literally given no choice. I wouldn't exactly call it rape because I never prevented it in the first place, but that was out of fear. Maybe it would be considered rape. I had no idea. That didn't matter to me. What mattered was that no one could find out because I was so scared that it would end up being my fault. As long as I knew it wasn't my fault, in my mind, it wasn't. Okay, that's not accurate. What would be more so correct would be to say that I had it scratched deep into the surface of my skull that it was my fault but if no one confirmed that then only I would have the guilt to live with. I would have eight extremely pissed off people baring down on me, if they knew, and I couldn't do that to myself or to them. I figured that it'd eventually stop and it wouldn't take long for it to, so I kept it under wraps. Much good it was doing me.
Now I had the feeling that Reesa was catching on. I don't know how she possibly could but it was looking that way. I know she knows who jumped Pony and I admit that I should've told them all right away but I couldn't. Like I said I was too scared. Anything that had to do with Miles -- even Clay -- scared me. Fear and me don't mix very well. I knew that Reesa didn't know the full extend, if she had an idea to begin with. There's no way she could. She was just as innocent as I was and I'd prefer to keep it that way. I wouldn't ever want to subject anyone to that kind of stuff without their consent first.
God I hated being alone. It was eating at me like nothing else. I couldn't give anyone a good excuse as to why they should stick around so they all left Pony and me. Anytime before Thursday I wouldn't have been scared. Pony would protect me and I could use that to my advantage. But when the actual time came around for him to do so, he didn't live up to the standard I had set myself for him. It wasn't his fault. Him against two guys that were both larger than he was turned out in disaster. I still trusted Pony with every fiber of my being. But I couldn't when it came to Miles and Clay, and Pony was in the condition he was. I just couldn't allow myself to trust something that wasn't worth trusting.
Ponyboy was asleep in his room and I was sticking close by in the kitchen. I felt funny being in there myself. I wouldn't want him to wake up and then I'd have to come up with some lame excuse explaining why I was in there. I'd rather skip the humiliation thank you. So I was sitting at table with a bowl of chicken noodle soup with the radio playing softly beside me. My headache hadn't gone down at all but the silence was unbearable.
It was around nine o'clock and I knew Darry would be home soon so I was beginning to relax a little. Isn't it pathetic how easily things got to me? I was the most dependant person when it came to my fears. Then there's people like Darry who take them on with no hesitation and no problems. Why was I so weak?
The doorbell rang so I got up to get it. Hopefully it was Two-Bit or Steve. I could handle seeing someone else tonight. It was bored stiff and I just wanted familiar company. Could you blame me?
I swung the door open despite my lack of strength and came face to face with my worst nightmare.
The screen door was open and Clay and Miles were standing on my doorstep looking angry. Well, Clay looked angrier than Miles who actually was pulling off a slightly hurt look. I felt myself starting to breathe deeply out of my own anger of not looking out the window before I answered the door.
"Where've you been?" Miles asked as he reached out to touch my arm but I pulled back. "I haven't seen you for awhile."
"I know. I've been sick." Man, I was glad to have a real excuse tonight. Nothing could get to me when I was sick.
"But not too sick to stay home last night?"
Damn it. "I wasn't sick yesterday. It's only started this morning. I've been sleeping all day." I love being able to lie like I do. It never benefited me any, but it was sort of cool.
This time Clay spoke. "That's great. Listen, we wanted to know if you were up to hanging out tonight." Like hell I was.
"I can't. Darry won't let me leave. I could go ask him but --"
"He's not here."
There's no way he could know that. No way.
"Yeah, he is. I'll get him out here to ask if you --"
"I said he's not here. Don't try and make me look stupid, Skye." His eyes were blazing and I had the feeling he was drunk. No, I could /I he was drunk. His breath smelled heavily of tequila and his eyes were sort of out of focus.
"Why are you avoiding me?" Miles asked in pouty voice, stepping back up to the plate. "What's wrong?"
"I'm not avoiding you. I'll get Soda out here if you don't believe me."
"I said not to try, Skye," Clay growled.
"What?"
"Look. You think we didn't do our homework before coming?" My stomach started to knot and I didn't want to know what he was talking about. But my mouth rattled off before I could stop it.
"What do you mean?"
"No one else is here." He grabbed me by the wrist and pulled me off the step and onto the porch. "I don't appreciate how little you think of me."
"I wasn't saying that you were --"
"Little Miles here is getting depressed without you. Why not fix that?"
God no. "I'm. Sick. And I'm not allowed to leave."
"Since when has that stopped you before, you little tramp?" I felt my jaw- line go stiff again. Maybe it never did before but it definitely would from now on, I can promise that.
"Since... I'm grounded and I don't wanna add on to it anymore." I don't think he was buying my lies, but I'd dish them out as much as I needed to if it helped me to stall. Darry was due home in minutes. He should be anyway. He always got off work at nine on Sundays. Where was he?
"Like I said. When has that stopped you before?"
I was getting angry now and it was almost overriding my fear. He still had his hand wrapped tightly around my wrist and I knew I wasn't going to be given much of a choice, if any. I couldn't bring myself to say anything. I didn't want to say something and dig myself any deeper.
"That's what I thought."
They started to walk away and Clay was dragging me along with them. I was forced to leave the house behind with the door open and all.
"Clay. Stop. Please." I'd go on my own if he'd only let go of me. He had never approached me with such force and authority before. My fear of having something else to add to my list of things for people to catch on to was suddenly gone and it was replaced with fear of Clay. What the hell he wanted with me, I didn't know.
"Be quiet." He opened the door to his truck waited for me to climb in. I stared solidly at him for a few seconds and then reluctantly hopped into the cab. He let go of me as Miles slid in next to me. Clay hurried around to his side, got in, and started up the engine. "Let's go."
It was quiet for a minute before Miles said something to break the long silence. I would've preferred him to keep his yap shut.
"I wouldn't worry if I were you."
"Why would I worry?" I didn't like the way that sounded.
"Don't be so jumpy all the time. It'll be fun." He rubbed at the window with the side of his fist and looked out into the dark.
"For me or you?"
"For all of us."
"...Excuse me? All of us?" Now what the hell did he mean by that?
"Yeah."
Okay, he cannot tell me only that and not expect me to be curious as to what he was trying to say. I wasn't going to stay silent when this concerned me. Besides, I was starting to notice that we were driving in the opposite direction of their house. That alone was bothering me.
"Miles, I swear to God if you think we're putting on a freak show --"
"Hell no."
"Then do you mind telling me what you're talking about?"
"You'll see."
It was apparent to me then that I wasn't going to be given any answers whatsoever. I'd have to wait it out and find out for myself.
I was feeling very uncomfortable sitting between the two of them. There wasn't enough room with the two of them to not have to touch them. I don't think they were trying to stick away, but they didn't have to press in on me like they were. I wasn't going anywhere.
Several minutes later we were in the Soc's neighborhood and we were slowing down to a stop in front of one of the houses. I had been up in that area before. Mostly from hanging out with friends and vandalizing the place, but I'd never tell them that. Clay pulled to a screeching stop and put the truck in park. I closed my eyes at the thought of what was coming. I knew it wouldn't be considerably close to ending. I could only imagine how much longer this would go on for.
Miles jumped out of the truck and held out his hand to help me down. I took it because one I wasn't feeling too good and I was afraid I'd end up on the grass if I didn't and for another I wasn't going to act like I was angry. That's the last thing you wanted to do when it came to those two.
When I had slid over and jumped down I was expecting him to release me but he didn't. He just intertwined our fingers and started to walk up the driveway following Clay. He was trying to make it feel like everything was normal and I was supposed to be enjoying myself but I wasn't stupid.
Clay opened the garage door and we followed him in. Immediately I felt like throwing up.
There were four other guys there sitting around on banana chairs and bean bags, smoking weed and holding bottles of beer in their lose grips. They all looked eager and pleased when we walked in and a couple of them muttered hellos. I recognized every one of them, although I didn't know their names. I recognized one of them as the kid who lived here. He was greaser born but had been adopted into this Soc family a few years ago and he never let go of his greaser ways. I almost didn't dare to admit he was a greaser, I'd be safer referring to him as a hood, but there was a fine line when it came to these boys.
The place smelled awful and it was trashed except for a small area in the corner where they had managed to squeeze in a battered looking mattress and a few nearly clean linens. There was a makeshift curtain hanging to one side and it didn't look all that solid, but transparent.
I started to feel filthy and degraded when I took in everything. I knew exactly what was planned for the night and I had to bite back a scream.
I didn't have to restrain myself from talking much longer after that. Miles was still holding my hand and Clay walked around behind me, proceeding to tie a strip of cloth around my head, cutting into my mouth and pulled tightly into a knot in the back. It was so tight I could hardly do more then breathe. I couldn't even grunt a reply when Clay asked me if it was too tight. Like he cared.
Miles began to rub my arm with his other hand and I wanted so badly to push him away but I was paralyzed. How he could stand there and do that while he was allowing this to happen... when he probably planned it -- was making my stomach knot even more.
But the preparation wasn't over with. Clay walked over the corner, grabbed a lengthy piece of rope and came back. He grabbed my free hand and Miles let go of my other to let Clay take it. He tied my hands roughly behind my back. The rope was so tight I was afraid it would cut off my circulation. Hanging my head in shame, he dropped my arms behind me.
I didn't have any time to brood as he shoved me harshly across the room, which wasn't that wide and I fell to my knees near the bed. The other boys laughed, Miles included, and I could feel my face burn from humiliation. I felt disgusted as Clay kicked me somewhat gently in the back but practically lifted me of my knees and sent me head long into the mattress.
I didn't move. I was going to make this as hard for them as I could. Clay flipped me over and stared down at me with a mixed look of pity and hunger. I knew then that no part of this was a joke. I stared blankly back at him. He probably wanted me to be scared, and God knows I was, but I'd never let him know that if I could help it.
He grinned down at me and whispered, "Let the show begin."
Tensleep: I made your day? Hooray! But I do have to say that if I made your day...then you made mine even more. I was having a horrible day when I got your reviews, and it made me VERY happy. Okay, since I don't think I ever answered the review from Chapter 11, or did I? Its been sooo long...Anyway, since I didn't answer that, here goes. This is pretty funny, because Keira has a ton of brothers, and I have a few myself, but neither of us has a sister. We both had to laugh about that, don't ask us how we pulled it off, I guess its because we did the opposite of our experiences with our brothers, and all of our really good friends ONLY have sisters, so we are around the sisterly fights a ton. So there goes that. Yeah, Reesa's back up and going, cleaning, yelling, and giving hell to anyone who enters 'her' house. HAHA. Hope you enjoy this next chapter, and REALLY I will update pretty quick on this next part...assuming my computer keeps working and my dad doesn't dump it. Enjoy and let me know what you think.
Oblivious Misconception: Well, here comes the first moment of truth...the speculation ends...kinda. It takes a lot to wrap this whole thing up, but you'll get the general idea, so you wont be speculating as much, you'll just have other questions as each chapter gets updated. Don't hate me, please! I think you'll like this next part...so read on and enjoy! Oh, and thanks for the extensive review on chapter ten that I never got, I understand, I wouldn't have taken the time to rewrite all that either, but Im sure it would have been good. Anyhow, have fun reading!
Sodapop'll-be-mine: Im really happy that you like it! I like it to, but I tend to be a little biased towards it...*smiles*. Here goes the next chapter, have fun reading it and figuring everything out! Sorry it took me forever to update, the story is really long. See Ya!
Okay, have a good time reading! I swear I will update soon. I had a really crazy few weeks, what with date dances (which here are all day big affairs) and homework, work, wonderful health crap, and life in general I didn't have time until Friday. Then due to my great luck, when I finally did have time to update my computer was whacked, then the internet went down, and to top that off once it was up I had the ever lasting joy of competing for the computer with four other people spending hours on email and stuff. So yeah, sorry, but I plan to update very soon, like tomorrow or something before I get real busy with life again. So, have a great time reading, and let us know what you think...unless of course you hate it, then you can keep your mouth shut or bring it up with us in an e-mail, but don't expect to get off easy.
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Chapter 13 (Darry's POV)
"Hey, Rees?" I asked as I walked into the kitchen where she was busy making herself some oatmeal. She was the only other person who even considered waking up early, weekend or not. It was nice not being the only one awake, you know.
"Yeah?" She was rummaging through the cabinets for a bowl and a cup. She was being picky about which ones she used.
"I'm gonna /I and run a few errands before I go to work. I need to know if you need any more of the antibiotics." I really didn't have the money, but I couldn't deny her of something she needed. Especially if it meant preventing further poisoning.
"Nope." She found what she was looking for and went to drop them on the table. She went back to the stove and stirred the oats.
"Good. Do you think you'll need anything at all? Period?" I might as well get all excess shopping done while I am doing it, right?
"Uh.... No. Not now."
"Good. All right. Well, I have to go now, so I guess I'll see you later...maybe." Most likely not because it's Sunday and I work all day and whatever shopping I don't finish I have to do later.
"'Kay. See ya."
I left the kitchen, grabbed my jacket and keys and headed for the door. Before I got there, however, I passed by the couch where I noticed Skye was asleep. Soda had told me, before turning in, that he had left her out there and I could move her if I wanted. But I saw no point in doing that so I left her there too. I was in bed and I didn't care to get up.
She didn't look too good. She looked down right bad. Her skin was flushed and sweaty and she was shaking. Damn. I wish I would've caught on earlier. I mean I noticed a little yesterday, but I know she wasn't /I bad until now.
"Reesa?" I called into the kitchen.
"What?" she asked in a singsong voice. "Shouldn't you be gone?"
"Yes. Hey, I need you to check and see if we have any flu medicine." I really didn't want to buy any if I could help it. Money was going to have to be tight for a little while if we didn't want to go into debt. First Reesa and then Ponyboy. I didn't need for Skye to end up there too.
"Hold on." She was silent for a minute while she went into the bathroom and looked through the medicine cabinet. "Yeah, we do. Why?" She came out to the living room so she wouldn't have to yell halfway across the house.
"I think Skye might need it. I don't know that she has the flu, but if it's the same symptoms, won't the medicine work the same?" It should, shouldn't it? It would only make sense.
"Oh God. Darry, don't tell me you believe all this. It's an act. You have to know that." She crossed her arms and stared up at me. "She's been doing this all weekend."
"Which is exactly why I don't think she's faking. Friday was up in the air because she wasn't showing it and it was a school day. Yesterday she was flushed and tired and now look at her. So, will it work either way?"
"Yes, but, Darry, think about--"
"Reesa. Why are you two at each other's throats? Just because you're pissed at her for some reason doesn't mean she can't be sick for real." Come on. Let there be some peace and quiet for once. I hate contention. It stresses me for absolutely no reason at all.
"It's nothing, Dar. I'll make sure she takes some. Just leave so you aren't late for work." She shoved me towards the door, or she tried to anyway. She wasn't very successful, mainly because I wanted a straight answer and that was far from one.
"Really? It's nothing?"
"Yes! We're just fine. I don't know what you're talking about. Just leave. Everything's fine."
I've never heard such a lie come from her, but you know -- whatever.
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(Skye's POV)
"Soda! You're going to be late!"
"I know!"
"Where are you going?"
"To work, stupid."
"I'm not stupid, Reesa!"
"Yes, you are."
"Drop it, guys."
"Hurry, Soda!"
"I am! Calm down! I can risk being five minutes late. Don't worry!"
"When are you coming back?"
"...When I get off."
"When's that?"
"When he's off! How stupid do you get, Ponyboy?"
"SHUT UP!" I yelled. Owwie, that hurt. My head was throbbing on one side. Much good my yelling did. No one listened to me as usual.
"I'm leaving..."
"Good. See you later."
"Where are you going, Soda?" I asked confused. I propped myself up on my elbows and squinted to find him in the room. The sudden brightness had caught me off guard.
"To work." He was running through the room pulling on his shoes and hat. "Bye, guys. Feel better, Pon! You too, Skye."
"What about me?" Reesa poked her head out the kitchen in mock hurt.
"What about you? Take a chill pill." He smirked and ran out the door and down the driveway where Steve was waiting to take him to work.
"Bye."
I laid back down wondering how late in the day it was. I knew that Soda didn't go to work on Sundays until the afternoon but there was no way I had slept that late. I admit I sleep in on weekends, but no one sleeps in until... whenever it was. Not me at least.
After a minute or two Reesa came in with a spoonful of red liquid and forced it down my throat. It was nasty. It was disgusting.
"What the hell are you doing? What is that? Rat poison?" God it left a bad after taste. Where's my water? You're supposed to let me have water after you attempt to poison me!
"Oh God. Yes, Skye, I'm poisoning you. You'll be dead by the end of the night. I guarantee it." She rolled her eyes at me and got up and started to leave.
"Wait! What's going on? What time is it?" I was so confused. I hate being left in the dark. It doesn't hurt to fill me in on things does it?
"It's three. Now leave me alone."
"Leave you alone? I haven't done anything! Tell me what I did!"
"You woke up."
"Oh, I'm sorry. I'll never do it again. How about that?"
"Fine by me."
"What the hell is with you, huh? What's crawled up your ass and decided to make camp?" Why wouldn't she cut me any slack? I didn't do anything to her that I know of and I would really appreciate it if she wouldn't bare down on me so much.
"Skye, whenever you feel like talking about it, go ahead, but until then I don't want anything to do with you. Now go back to sleep."
Go back to sleep?! I just woke up! I can't go to sleep now. Not with her yelling at me and not making any sense. "What am I not telling you, Rees?"
"How do I know?" she nearly yelled. Then she came closer to the couch and leaned down over the back near my head. "I swear if you don't start coughing up details soon I'm gonna tell Darry who jumped Ponyboy," she whispered. Who was going to eavesdrop? No one cared enough about our conversation to be listening anyway. And if she only said who it was who jumped Pony, then he'd remember for himself. What bad was there in that?
And suddenly it all came screaming back to me. I realized what she was talking about and why my stomach was so knotted. My goal to not see him, hear him, or come anywhere within ten miles of him for one day had been unsuccessful. The only reason I went to the movies last night was to not be home alone. Being alone scared me. Being alone made me vulnerable to anything that came my way and I hated it. So I went with the guys to the Nightly Double and loe and behold guess who was there? The pervert himself. Why I ever left the car in the first place was something I'd never remember. I should've known that with Dally and Steve there that I would've been fine, but I didn't feel that way about it.
I rubbed my eye with the back of my hand lightly and said, "Go right ahead."
She didn't say anything but stood up straighter and looked down at me.
"Can we turn on the damn heat? It's fall for crying out loud." What's wrong with these people? It's freezing in here!
"Skye, you have a fever and it is on. Trust me, it's on. Why else do you think I'd wear this?" I looked closer and noticed that all she was wearing was shorts and a belly-shirt. So maybe she was warm, but I sure wasn't. "Do you need another blanket?" I hadn't even realized I had one, but yes, another one would be nice.
"Sure. Why are you being so nice now?"
"Because I don't feel like getting my ass kicked when Darry comes home." She left and went to go get my extra blanket off my bed. It was a big fleece one and it felt really good to be wrapped up in. She threw it at me and I just let it fall into place on top of me. It was fairly good aim and I had to barely adjust it to make it more comfortable.
I fell back asleep before she could tell me to. It was very easy with all the soft, warm blankets and pillows all around me. It felt pretty good.
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(Reesa's POV)
I was so bored. Everyone was gone, Soda and Darry at least. They were at work, and Pony and Skye were both sick and out of it. I just made them stay in the their rooms so I could listen to the radio and watch a little TV. I mean, I had nowhere to go, although I wanted to go somewhere. Besides that, I had no one to go with, which was the more determining factor. I never went anywhere alone. It was too dangerous. Well, I did sometimes, but only if I had to.
To entertain myself I decided to go make some cake. It wasn't my favorite thing to do, but it was a little useful as it would get eaten, and it was something to do while I listened to rock and roll. Our house was way to quiet when people were sick. It drove me crazy at times. I'm one of those people that needs noise, to an extent.
I had just taken the cake out of the oven when I heard someone come into the house.
"Who's here?" I called out.
"Me." Yeah, that helped. It was Dally. Great.
"I'm in the kitchen." I yelled after he didn't come right in.
He stuck his head in the door next to me, "Yeah, I ain't deaf, Rees."
"I must have forgotten." I said smiling innocently.
"Hey, watch it." He said in a warning tone. But he wasn't all that mad. It was just me...okay the annoying little brat maybe, but just me all the same. He could deal with what I dished to him, even if he didn't like it. It was like when I made dinner, if you didn't like it you ate it anyway, no choice in the matter around here. I guess that depends more on my mood, but the point is that people take what I give them because it is all on my terms. Usually, I think.
"Where is everyone?" Dally reached around me and tried to take the cake. I swiped his hand away.
"Can't you see its still hot and not ready to eat yet? Hell." I was a little annoyed by that, and my voice said it but Dal just laughed at me as usual, "Soda and Darry are at work, like they always are on Sunday nights, where did you think they were?"
"What about Pony and Skye and the guys?"
"Pony and Skye are both sleeping. They're both sick. And how am I supposed to know where all of everyone is? I haven't hardly seen anyone but Skye today."
"I thought you said that Skye wasn't really sick. I mean, I didn't hear it from you, but I heard about the whole thing."
"Well, today she had a fever and she's been pretty sick, so I guess she is. Its just that she had no reason to come home on Friday. She's so weak, she has no pain tolerance."
"Well, Rees, you don't exactly have the lowest tolerance either. Its not her fault."
"She could at least try a little harder to deal with it." I don't know how she got to be part of this family. All the rest of us could deal with things, I mean physical injuries and stuff, like fighting. She couldn't fight, or handle pain, or any of that. No wonder Darry worried about her so much, and she wondered.
"Well, hey, I'm going to a party. You wanna come?"
"Uh...where's it at?"
"It's at Rob's place."
"Oh, then yeah. Give me a few minutes?"
"Sure, I'll find something to eat. Did you go shopping yet? Last time I tried to find something to eat in this house, there wasn't shit to eat."
"Yes, I went yesterday." I walked out of the room and went to change my shirt and pants. I had to look good and I hadn't put on anything decent that day. It took me only a few minutes, most of which was doing my hair and choosing the shirt I wanted to wear. I found a black tank top that fit me real good. It was tight, but just right and it made me look really skinny. I had a pair of jeans to, they were worn out, but once again, a pair that fit me more than perfectly. I pulled on my shoes, and went over to Skye.
"Hey, Skye." She didn't move, as usual. "Skye!" I yelled in her ear. Yeah, that didn't make a difference either. I tried everything from shaking her, to making her smell alcohol, to literally pulling her off the bed and watching her slam to the ground. I gave up after that and left her on the floor. What? She would survive. Hell, she was out cold.
I went over to Pony's room and stuck my head in, "Hey, Pony?"
He was fast asleep to. I knew he would be, but I hoped I could wake him up. I hadn't wanted to because I knew he had just fallen asleep and he had had the hardest time getting to sleep the last two days. Well, sorry, that ones down the drain. Maybe, if I was lucky, he would go back to sleep.
"Pony." I shook his shoulder a little, and he groaned. Thank goodness. "Hey, I'm going out, 'kay?"
"Huh? Where?"
"To a party. Tell Darry when he gets home that I'll be back in time for curfew. You'll be alright?"
"Yeah, sure."
He didn't move much as I left so I hoped he remembered the message and that he was going back to sleep.
I walked out into the living room and saw that Dally was drinking a beer and finishing off the last of the crackers he had in his hand, "You ready?"
"Yup." I was so glad to be leaving that house. I usually didn't mind being home, but it had been a long week and I needed to get out. So we left.
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(Skye's POV)
With everyone gone except Pony and me, I was feeling really bad. Not just sick bad, but really bad. I did feel sick, but that wasn't anything compared to the nerves and anxiety I felt. I knew I had to be overreacting but I was literally that scared. Scared that nothing would ever be normal again.
I can't even begin to tell you how it all started. I'm not sure I know the answer to that. I have an idea as to where it all began but I'm not sure.
First off, like all fifteen-year-old girls at my school, I thought I loved Miles. He's a gorgeous, dark haired, five foot ten inches, muscular hunk. He looks and acts like the type of guy who only wants to love you, protect you, and you just feel so safe around him. Fortunately enough for me -- that would be unfortunate now -- he reciprocated the feelings and asked me out on a date one day. And, like any warm blooded teenage girl, I said yes. Ponyboy, Reesa, and the rest of the gang told me to stay away from him but I saw no bad in him whatsoever. He was simply misunderstood, right?
Wrong.
After a couple of dates -- we never got around to be official boyfriend and girlfriend -- he started acting really weird and it was seriously creeping me out. He kept trying to make moves on me and it was pretty uncomfortable to say the least. For reasons beyond my control I have a reputation of being the bad girl who doesn't give a damn about anything and who is known for getting all up on the guys. That's not all that true. If anyone who made those assumptions took the time to get to know me, they'd have realized that I have never had an actually boyfriend and I've never done anything past a simple kiss. I don't think I've ever been to second base if truth be known. Thanks to the fact that I have several brothers and friends who would beat the guy whom even tried to touch me. Everyone knew that and I imagine that's why I've never had a boyfriend. They were all too scared. I think that's what got Miles' attention in the first place. Which part, you're wondering? All of it -- my reputation, my so-called innocence, and the fact that he likes anything that's worth taking a risk for.
As time went on I was literally given no choice. I wouldn't exactly call it rape because I never prevented it in the first place, but that was out of fear. Maybe it would be considered rape. I had no idea. That didn't matter to me. What mattered was that no one could find out because I was so scared that it would end up being my fault. As long as I knew it wasn't my fault, in my mind, it wasn't. Okay, that's not accurate. What would be more so correct would be to say that I had it scratched deep into the surface of my skull that it was my fault but if no one confirmed that then only I would have the guilt to live with. I would have eight extremely pissed off people baring down on me, if they knew, and I couldn't do that to myself or to them. I figured that it'd eventually stop and it wouldn't take long for it to, so I kept it under wraps. Much good it was doing me.
Now I had the feeling that Reesa was catching on. I don't know how she possibly could but it was looking that way. I know she knows who jumped Pony and I admit that I should've told them all right away but I couldn't. Like I said I was too scared. Anything that had to do with Miles -- even Clay -- scared me. Fear and me don't mix very well. I knew that Reesa didn't know the full extend, if she had an idea to begin with. There's no way she could. She was just as innocent as I was and I'd prefer to keep it that way. I wouldn't ever want to subject anyone to that kind of stuff without their consent first.
God I hated being alone. It was eating at me like nothing else. I couldn't give anyone a good excuse as to why they should stick around so they all left Pony and me. Anytime before Thursday I wouldn't have been scared. Pony would protect me and I could use that to my advantage. But when the actual time came around for him to do so, he didn't live up to the standard I had set myself for him. It wasn't his fault. Him against two guys that were both larger than he was turned out in disaster. I still trusted Pony with every fiber of my being. But I couldn't when it came to Miles and Clay, and Pony was in the condition he was. I just couldn't allow myself to trust something that wasn't worth trusting.
Ponyboy was asleep in his room and I was sticking close by in the kitchen. I felt funny being in there myself. I wouldn't want him to wake up and then I'd have to come up with some lame excuse explaining why I was in there. I'd rather skip the humiliation thank you. So I was sitting at table with a bowl of chicken noodle soup with the radio playing softly beside me. My headache hadn't gone down at all but the silence was unbearable.
It was around nine o'clock and I knew Darry would be home soon so I was beginning to relax a little. Isn't it pathetic how easily things got to me? I was the most dependant person when it came to my fears. Then there's people like Darry who take them on with no hesitation and no problems. Why was I so weak?
The doorbell rang so I got up to get it. Hopefully it was Two-Bit or Steve. I could handle seeing someone else tonight. It was bored stiff and I just wanted familiar company. Could you blame me?
I swung the door open despite my lack of strength and came face to face with my worst nightmare.
The screen door was open and Clay and Miles were standing on my doorstep looking angry. Well, Clay looked angrier than Miles who actually was pulling off a slightly hurt look. I felt myself starting to breathe deeply out of my own anger of not looking out the window before I answered the door.
"Where've you been?" Miles asked as he reached out to touch my arm but I pulled back. "I haven't seen you for awhile."
"I know. I've been sick." Man, I was glad to have a real excuse tonight. Nothing could get to me when I was sick.
"But not too sick to stay home last night?"
Damn it. "I wasn't sick yesterday. It's only started this morning. I've been sleeping all day." I love being able to lie like I do. It never benefited me any, but it was sort of cool.
This time Clay spoke. "That's great. Listen, we wanted to know if you were up to hanging out tonight." Like hell I was.
"I can't. Darry won't let me leave. I could go ask him but --"
"He's not here."
There's no way he could know that. No way.
"Yeah, he is. I'll get him out here to ask if you --"
"I said he's not here. Don't try and make me look stupid, Skye." His eyes were blazing and I had the feeling he was drunk. No, I could /I he was drunk. His breath smelled heavily of tequila and his eyes were sort of out of focus.
"Why are you avoiding me?" Miles asked in pouty voice, stepping back up to the plate. "What's wrong?"
"I'm not avoiding you. I'll get Soda out here if you don't believe me."
"I said not to try, Skye," Clay growled.
"What?"
"Look. You think we didn't do our homework before coming?" My stomach started to knot and I didn't want to know what he was talking about. But my mouth rattled off before I could stop it.
"What do you mean?"
"No one else is here." He grabbed me by the wrist and pulled me off the step and onto the porch. "I don't appreciate how little you think of me."
"I wasn't saying that you were --"
"Little Miles here is getting depressed without you. Why not fix that?"
God no. "I'm. Sick. And I'm not allowed to leave."
"Since when has that stopped you before, you little tramp?" I felt my jaw- line go stiff again. Maybe it never did before but it definitely would from now on, I can promise that.
"Since... I'm grounded and I don't wanna add on to it anymore." I don't think he was buying my lies, but I'd dish them out as much as I needed to if it helped me to stall. Darry was due home in minutes. He should be anyway. He always got off work at nine on Sundays. Where was he?
"Like I said. When has that stopped you before?"
I was getting angry now and it was almost overriding my fear. He still had his hand wrapped tightly around my wrist and I knew I wasn't going to be given much of a choice, if any. I couldn't bring myself to say anything. I didn't want to say something and dig myself any deeper.
"That's what I thought."
They started to walk away and Clay was dragging me along with them. I was forced to leave the house behind with the door open and all.
"Clay. Stop. Please." I'd go on my own if he'd only let go of me. He had never approached me with such force and authority before. My fear of having something else to add to my list of things for people to catch on to was suddenly gone and it was replaced with fear of Clay. What the hell he wanted with me, I didn't know.
"Be quiet." He opened the door to his truck waited for me to climb in. I stared solidly at him for a few seconds and then reluctantly hopped into the cab. He let go of me as Miles slid in next to me. Clay hurried around to his side, got in, and started up the engine. "Let's go."
It was quiet for a minute before Miles said something to break the long silence. I would've preferred him to keep his yap shut.
"I wouldn't worry if I were you."
"Why would I worry?" I didn't like the way that sounded.
"Don't be so jumpy all the time. It'll be fun." He rubbed at the window with the side of his fist and looked out into the dark.
"For me or you?"
"For all of us."
"...Excuse me? All of us?" Now what the hell did he mean by that?
"Yeah."
Okay, he cannot tell me only that and not expect me to be curious as to what he was trying to say. I wasn't going to stay silent when this concerned me. Besides, I was starting to notice that we were driving in the opposite direction of their house. That alone was bothering me.
"Miles, I swear to God if you think we're putting on a freak show --"
"Hell no."
"Then do you mind telling me what you're talking about?"
"You'll see."
It was apparent to me then that I wasn't going to be given any answers whatsoever. I'd have to wait it out and find out for myself.
I was feeling very uncomfortable sitting between the two of them. There wasn't enough room with the two of them to not have to touch them. I don't think they were trying to stick away, but they didn't have to press in on me like they were. I wasn't going anywhere.
Several minutes later we were in the Soc's neighborhood and we were slowing down to a stop in front of one of the houses. I had been up in that area before. Mostly from hanging out with friends and vandalizing the place, but I'd never tell them that. Clay pulled to a screeching stop and put the truck in park. I closed my eyes at the thought of what was coming. I knew it wouldn't be considerably close to ending. I could only imagine how much longer this would go on for.
Miles jumped out of the truck and held out his hand to help me down. I took it because one I wasn't feeling too good and I was afraid I'd end up on the grass if I didn't and for another I wasn't going to act like I was angry. That's the last thing you wanted to do when it came to those two.
When I had slid over and jumped down I was expecting him to release me but he didn't. He just intertwined our fingers and started to walk up the driveway following Clay. He was trying to make it feel like everything was normal and I was supposed to be enjoying myself but I wasn't stupid.
Clay opened the garage door and we followed him in. Immediately I felt like throwing up.
There were four other guys there sitting around on banana chairs and bean bags, smoking weed and holding bottles of beer in their lose grips. They all looked eager and pleased when we walked in and a couple of them muttered hellos. I recognized every one of them, although I didn't know their names. I recognized one of them as the kid who lived here. He was greaser born but had been adopted into this Soc family a few years ago and he never let go of his greaser ways. I almost didn't dare to admit he was a greaser, I'd be safer referring to him as a hood, but there was a fine line when it came to these boys.
The place smelled awful and it was trashed except for a small area in the corner where they had managed to squeeze in a battered looking mattress and a few nearly clean linens. There was a makeshift curtain hanging to one side and it didn't look all that solid, but transparent.
I started to feel filthy and degraded when I took in everything. I knew exactly what was planned for the night and I had to bite back a scream.
I didn't have to restrain myself from talking much longer after that. Miles was still holding my hand and Clay walked around behind me, proceeding to tie a strip of cloth around my head, cutting into my mouth and pulled tightly into a knot in the back. It was so tight I could hardly do more then breathe. I couldn't even grunt a reply when Clay asked me if it was too tight. Like he cared.
Miles began to rub my arm with his other hand and I wanted so badly to push him away but I was paralyzed. How he could stand there and do that while he was allowing this to happen... when he probably planned it -- was making my stomach knot even more.
But the preparation wasn't over with. Clay walked over the corner, grabbed a lengthy piece of rope and came back. He grabbed my free hand and Miles let go of my other to let Clay take it. He tied my hands roughly behind my back. The rope was so tight I was afraid it would cut off my circulation. Hanging my head in shame, he dropped my arms behind me.
I didn't have any time to brood as he shoved me harshly across the room, which wasn't that wide and I fell to my knees near the bed. The other boys laughed, Miles included, and I could feel my face burn from humiliation. I felt disgusted as Clay kicked me somewhat gently in the back but practically lifted me of my knees and sent me head long into the mattress.
I didn't move. I was going to make this as hard for them as I could. Clay flipped me over and stared down at me with a mixed look of pity and hunger. I knew then that no part of this was a joke. I stared blankly back at him. He probably wanted me to be scared, and God knows I was, but I'd never let him know that if I could help it.
He grinned down at me and whispered, "Let the show begin."