Bug lifted Tia up, as the two began to passionately kiss.
He lifted her up, hands underneath her ass as he lifted her up, moaning in-between kisses, before they both nearly fell, stumbling into the next room. He carried her, before lifting her up, and placing her down on the counter, before her hands went down to unbuckle his belt. That's when he froze. "No..." He said, face flushed, hair a mess, and breathless. Tia, who was just as flushed, sat there and nervously laughed. She raised an eyebrow.
"What?"
Bug smiled, pressing his forehead up against hers. Breathing heavy, he took a deep breath, slipping his hand into hers, lacing his fingers. against hers.
"Trust me, I've been wanting to do that for quite some time...I wanted to let you know how sorry I am. You're my only friend, even though out of anyone you have every reason to stay the Hell away from me. You treat my little girl like an actual little girl, not some freak...I've missed you so much, I just..."
Tia went to his belt again, when he smirked and shook his head.
"You don't need to..."
Tia felt wired, and flushed.
"I do though...I mean...I want to...I've missed you..."
She leaned in kissing him, remembering all those nights of him trying to get to second or third base, kissing down her neck making her uncomfortable, as she made excuse after excuse. Bug laughed softly before he shook his head.
"I've missed you too, but not like this...we got time Tia."
Tia smirked, staring at him.
"I'm on the pill. You aren't nervous are you?"
Bug blushed a little, before he gently brushed some of her bangs out of her face. He stared at her, and smiled.
"Let's just...go slow Tia. I don't wanna screw this up."
Tia smiled.
"Me neither."
"Maybe keep your distance at school though. I don't want people getting the wrong idea about you..."
"I don't care what other people think..."
Bug smirked.
"I know."
They stared at each other, before Bug leaned in, gently kissing her cheek. With that, he offered his hand and helped her off the counter, and Tia knew right then and there she needed to help Bug, even if he wasn't asking for it.
A few days later...
Tia wasn't sure what to expect as she sat in her bedroom, and dialed Lucy's grandmother in Arizona. She had taken the number from Bug's without him seeing, and honestly just wanted to get to the bottom of things. She did believe Bug despite his track record, and couldn't wrap her head around why his father was punishing him the way he was? None of this made sense, seeing that the family name, and it's reputation was what seemed the most important. Why make their only child raise a baby out of wedlock? A baby who was supposed to be the result of a rape, and small town scandal? None of it made any sense, and seeing that Lucy was dead, there were so many unanswered questions. One thing Tia knew for certain was that Bug was hiding something, and she truly couldn't take another year of people whispering about Bug, nudging each other, talking behind his back, and treating him like a monster. She knew he didn't care, but knew it was only going to get worse as time went on, which meant hiding Lady from this would be near impossible. So, she stared down at the number, debating on if she was really going to do this, before she took a deep breath, slipping her father's tape recorder on that she had borrowed from his office, she dialed the number.
Later...
She had done her editing with the tape recorder, making sure her own voice was out of it, and the answers Lucy's grandmother gave were clear, and to the point. She lied about her name, calling herself Shelly, and told Lucy's grandmother that she was a good friend of hers. They chatted for a while, and that's when she slowly got to hear the truth plain and simple. Lucy's grandmother said that after her daughter and husband's death, Lucy had a really hard time, and she just wished she had been in better health, since her eldest daughter had to take her in, who had quite the history with drinking, and yes even drugs. She took Lucy in just for the monthly check, but hadn't watched her close enough. She told her about how much she liked living here even though she was new, and had called her a few times telling her all about this new guy she was dating, and how he had really made her feel welcome since she was having a hard time making friends. She then told Tia about how stupid Lucy had been, angry at Burton over what happened the night of the party, and how she didn't think it would blow up the way it did. Burton's parents freaked, and she got the living shit scared out of her while she was staying here with her while she recovered from surgery. She told her how hysterical she was and scared she was. How she had been angry, and had no idea it would have been taken so far. When she found out she was pregnant, she honestly had to almost call the hospital since she thought her granddaughter was suffering from a mental breakdown. She only talked to Burton once, since her original plan was to get an abortion, then chickened out and decided to stay here with her, and give the baby up for adoption. She felt awful, and admitted to her that she knew she couldn't raise the baby alone, and that she wasn't about to ruin her life anymore than she already had. That she wanted to give the baby up to a nice family, who would give it a good life. Burton called that one time right around then, and that's when Lucy told him how she found out she was having a girl.
They never spoke again, because she went into labor early, even before she had to meet with the social service woman. Everything happened so fast, and just like that Lucy died, and that night Burton's father flew in, the paperwork was signed, she was given money, and so wasn't her daughter, and just like that they took custody of the baby and she never heard from them again. She wanted to question it, but she figured what's done was done. Lucy was dead, she wasn't coming back, and she hoped maybe the baby would be given a chance at a good life. Tia closed her eyes, knowing she needed this said more clearly.
"So Lucy told you the truth. Bug...I mean Burton never raped Lucy. She had lied about it all. He never raped her?"
"No dear, Burton never raped anyone. Lucy was angry at him that night. She told me while they were...making love he called her by the wrong name or something. She was furious, and tried getting him in trouble. She told me she didn't even think about how serious this was until Burton's father got involved. I myself gave her a screaming at. There's one thing to get angry about some jerk who doesn't treat you right, but to lie about something this serious, goes to show you what a little girl she still was. Burton's just a kid himself, and the two paid for their mistakes. She paid with her life, and he paid in giving up his life and raising the baby. I know my daughter and I shouldn't have taken the money, but we barely have anything left, If Burton's father had the money, we figured with Lucy gone and the trouble she caused, there wasn't anything else left to do. I know she shouldn't have lied about Burton, but...what's done is done. I feel awful not being able to be in her life, but I'm too old...and my daughter is a drunk. She's better off."
"So again, Lucy lied...Burton never raped her. His father set this all up, making him raise the baby as...punishment for the trouble he caused?"
"I believe so. He doesn't seem like a very good man, but maybe raising this baby will teach Burton responsibility. Just a shame how things turned out. Just hope the baby is given a good life..."
"She is Bug...I mean Burton is a wonderful father. I think taking on this responsibility might be what he needed. He loves her very much."
"That's good. Maybe someday I can give him a call and ask for a photo. I know I have no right, but she's still my great granddaughter. I wish them the best...I'm sure Burton thought he loved Lucy, but the fact remains, she was a troubled kid...who sadly caused a whole lot of trouble on her way out."
Tia hated to ask this, but needed to.
"So she lied. Burton never raped her, she made it all up?"
"Yes darling. The only good thing that came out of this whole mess was that little girl, and she's lucky that Burton doesn't resent her, and actually loves her."
Tia struggled to hold back tears, before she sniffled, thanked her, and promised she would call sometime soon to check in, even though she knew this was a lie. Once she hung up, she stopped recording, looked at her rape recorder, before sighing.
Several days later...
She ended up telling her mother everything, playing the rape recording for her as she listened. The two had gone out shopping together, and had gotten lunch afterwards. Once she explained everything, she played the recording, before asking her what she thought?
Her mother signed dabbing at her mouth with her napkin, before looking across at her.
"Do you really believe it, Tia?"
"You heard the tape. I just don't understand why Bug's father would be so angry that forces his son to gamble with his future, and doesn't mind if the family's name is dragged through all this shit. Bug said it was bad, but wouldn't go into it. There's gotta be a reason besides him trying to get even with him for the trouble this has all caused. Maybe punish him by making him have a constant reminder of what happened? This extreme way of responsibility? It just doesn't make sense. He's always throwing money at the problem, but this extreme?"
Her mother sighed, gently rubbing her temples.
"Honey, I think there's a reason why Bug isn't sharing. Maybe you need to leave well enough alone. This is none of your business honey. I know Bug has changed since you two were together...parenthood does that. I've seen him with her, he's scared out of his mind, but he loves her. I think whatever is going on is between Bug and his father. Don't get involved anymore Tia, it's none of your business."
Sighing, she crossed her arms.
"It isn't right mom, you should see how he's treated. He told me he's just trying to keep his mouth shut until he gets the money his grandmother is leaving him. It isn't until he turns twenty-five. He said since it's through his grandfather's trust his father can't mess with it. He's just keeping his distance, and his head down. He said once he gets that money he'll move Lady and him away. Until then...he's just gotta play ball with his dad. He seems miserable. He's super isolated, everyone at school calls him a monster, or a rapist...it's terrible. What's gonna happen once Lady is old enough to understand?"
Her mother sighed again.
"Darling, I just don't want you getting involved. I myself need to apologize to Bug because I too judged him like everyone else. I didn't like him because I knew the old him had hurt you. He might have changed, and I certainly hope so. You just need to remember this isn't your business honey. You have another year then college. You need to focus, maybe start dating someone without so much history and baggage. I think it's wonderful you're being a great friend to him, just remember...this whole mess is bigger than any of us could even imagine."
"Did I tell you who's name Bug accidently said the night Lucy got pregnant and they ran out of the party fighting? He said my name."
Her mother nearly choked as she lifted her coffee to her lips to drink. She cleared her throat stunned, before Tia sighed, shaking her head.
"I feel bad, I think Lucy really loved him, but...I think she had a lot of issues. I just...I know Bug was a lot of things, but he doesn't deserve this. Nobody does."
"Honey, I know you think you care about him, but just be careful. It would kill me to see you get hurt again."
Sighing, Tia thought about the tape recording, and her plans with it.
Two weeks later...
Bug was out today. He had been calling Tia last night explaining Isabella had been sick, so he was taking that Thursday and Friday off to be with the baby. Tia had been helping him with his homework recently, usually coming over two or three times a week. Bug still kept his distance from her at school, but Tia didn't care. She had been asked by a few of her friends if something was going on between? She had been respecting Bug's wishes, since she knew he didn't want to make waves, nor drag her down with him. She on the other hand didn't care. She never gave straight answers, but was spending her lunches with him either outside, both sharing a cigarette, or in study hall going over schoolwork. She knew people had seen them together, or saw her get a ride every day from him, and honestly she didn't care. She knew it was only a matter of time before she snapped if she was asked what was going on between her and Bug. Her friends were nosy, but knew whenever she was getting annoyed, and were currently not pressing her for any questions. Just Tuesday, when Bug dropped her off, her mother was just been climbing out of her car after bringing Miles to a doctor's appointment. Miles ran inside, while her mother turned and approached the car. Bug seemed nervous, but rolled down the window and waved.
"Hi Mrs. Russell."
Her mother smiled and leaned in.
"Hi Bug. Listen, tomorrow night I'm making my world famous pasta and meatballs, would you like to come over for dinner. I remember you always liked whenever I cooked that."
Bug blushed.
"Gee, I would love to but I got Lady..."
Before he could finish, her mother waved her hand.
"Please bring her. We have a highchair, besides I have a bunch of old clothes from when Maizy was a baby, and they are barely worn. I'll bring them down from the attic. They have been stored well, just need a good washing to get the smell of mothballs out, but there's some really cute stuff I would love her to have."
Bug lit up, truly touched.
"Wow, thanks Mrs. Russell..."
"Cindy please. Come by around five okay?"
Bug smiled, thanking her, before she winked at them, and turned around following Miles inside. Left alone, Tia eyed Bug before softly laughing. Leaning over, she kissed Bug on the lips, before telling him she would see him in the morning. The next evening, Bug brought over Lady, dressed in another onesie, with a matching hat. He carried her around in her carseat, and instantly Miles and Maizy were transfixed with the baby, looking over her, and asking Bug a million questions when he sat her down by his feet in the living room. Tia's father was friendly, shaking his hand, saying it was good to see him. Tia could tell Bug was nervous, but as always her dad was soft spoken, and had most likely talked to her mom about what was really going on with Bug. Her father looked down at Lady, smiling, and remarking that she was absolutely beautiful. Bug smiled proudly, thanking him, before Tia's father got a phonecall in the other room, While waiting, Tia smiled sitting awkardly near Bug, before Miles and Maizy began asking questions.
"Where's her hair?"
Bug laughed, unhooking her from the carseat, and gently rocking her with the toe of his boot.
"Um, she really doesn't have any yet."
"Is she talking yet?"
"Yeah? What was her first word?"
"Um, not really, just gibberish. I read to her a lot, that's supposed to help her start talking..."
"Does she walk yet?"
"She's too young idiot."
"Shut up idiot!"
Tia gave them both death glares, before Maizy leaned in closer and reached out. Tia warned her to be gentle, before Maizy gently stroked the baby's cheek with her finger. Miles joined in, and both petted the baby, staring down at her transfixed, as Lady stared up at them sucking on her pacifier.
"I like her hat."
"She's so tiny. Does she poop a lot?"
"Does she cry a lot?"
Bug laughed and nodded.
"Yes, and yes."
"How come she's still in her hat, and has all those blankets? She must be melting."
Bug shrugged as he lightly bounced her in the crook of his arm against his leg. He smiled looking down at her.
"Babies get cold really easily so you need them dressed warm so they don't get sick."
Maizy then asked if she could hold her? Tia was about to say no, when Bug shrugged and said sure as long as she sat up on the couch with him. Maizy grinned saying sure, before Miles wanting in on some of the action piped up that he wanted to hold her too. Both climbed up on each side of Bug, sitting back, and Bug carefully positioned Maizy's arm, showing her how to support the head, and how to hold her the right way. Carefully, Bug handed the baby over, and Tia hated to admit, she was a little nervous, watching from the other end of the couch. She instructed Maizy to hold her good, as she sat back, holding the baby in her arms. Smiling nervously, she stared down at the baby as Bug watched smiling.
After a few minutes, he asked if Miles still wanted to? Miles nodded, as Bug took her from Maizy, and carefully handed the baby to him, fixing his arms so the baby's head could be supported. Miles's expression made Tia bite down on the insides of her cheeks from laughing. He seemed super focused, before leaning down and smelling her head. He smiled.
"She smells nice?"
Bug laughed, raising an eyebrow.
"Yeah?"
He leaned down and smelled Lady's head before he laughed.
"Yeah, I guess she smells like baby powder."
Miles smiled, before Tia's mother came in smiling. She told everyone dinner would be ready in less than an hour, and told Miles and Maizy they could go upstairs and play on their Nintendo they got for Christmas until then. Miles carefully handed back Lady, before both raced upstairs. Tia's mother laughed, before she reached into the hallway, and dragged in two huge large tied up black trash bags. Bug got up to help, before Tia's mother smiled, asking if she could hold Lady? Bug said of course, and Tia smiled as her mother lit up holding the baby.
"Why hello there Miss. Lady! What a pretty girl you are!"
She held onto the baby, talking to her, before laying her against her shoulder.
"I have a play mat that I just washed, Tia it's in the hallway can you get it?"
Tia nodded, as Bug dragged in the huge trash bags, before Tia returned with the playmat. Her mother instructed her to lay it down, before she asked Bug if she let Lady have tummy time? Bug seemed confused, before her mother carefully sat down on the rug holding Lady. Bug and Tia got down as well on the carpet, before Tia's mother explained that tummy time was very important. That every evening, he could lay out this mat, and put her on her tummy. Sometimes she could be on her back and play with the plastic rings that came with the mat that she had, but it's really important to have her tummy. It strengthens her muscles, she'll be holding her head up better, as well as her back. I used to do it all the time with the kids.m Tia loved it." Tia blushed, rolling her eyes as Bug laughed, as he watched Lady gurgle, still sucking on her pacifier, lifting her head slightly, and wiggling her tiny little legs and arms. Bug lit up watching her, as Tia's mother laughed, and untied the first bag. Right away she started taking out little dresses, overalls, shirts, and coats.
Tia sat back smiling, watching a whole new side of Bug she wasn't used to. He lit up at every different outfit, even holding the little clothing up, as Tia's mother explained sizes for him. By the end, Bug brought both packed trash bags into his trunk, and came back in as Tia's mother was showing Lady the dangling rings that hung down over the play mat. She jingled them, showing one of the rings that had a reflective surface like a mirror, and one that was full of tiny colorful beads and made noise whenever you touched them. Lady had spit out her pacifier, and was giggling, and staring up with wonder at the rings. Bug sat down , before laying down next to her hiked up on his elbow. He touched the rings, making Lady's eyes widen as she shook her tiny little arms, and legs. They all had dinner, and Tia's mother helped put Lady in her highchair. Bug had slowly been trying her out on different baby foods, and Tia watched highly amused, as he fed Lady who wore her bib, and wore more of it than actually eating it.
Her mother seemed thrilled over the baby being there, and even insisted that Bug eat while she tried feeding her. After dinner, Bug helped Tia clear the table, as her mother changed Lady, and put her in one of her new outfits. Her father had gone to the living room to watch some shows with Miles and Maizy, before Bug looked at the time and thanked them again for everything and said he needed to get her back. Tia offered to carry out the playmat, and Lady's diaper bag, and her mother told her she wanted to say goodbye to Bug. When she came back into the kitchen after dropping the last of the things off by the car, when she paused in the doorway. Bug was sitting at the kitchen table, holding Lady, as her mother was finishing up talking to him. They hugged, the baby between them, and Tia could have sworn Bug was blinking tears away. She caught the end of what her mom was saying to him...
"Just remember, we're always a phone call away, and if you ever want to spend the night, or need somebody to watch Lady we're here."
She watched as they hugged, before clearing her throat, pretending she had just walked in. Bug and her mother pulled apart, as Bug tried burping the baby, blinking his tears away and smiling, thanking her again. Her mother kissed his cheek, before Tia offered to walk Bug out. Helping him with the carseat, the two outside, stood next to each other, before Bug smiled.
"Please thank your family again. That was the first...really nice night I've had in awhile."
Tia smiled, staring at him, before she took his hand.
"They know the truth, Bug. Just think...if more people knew Bug you wouldn't be so alone..."
Bug sighed, before he lightly brushed her cheek with the backs of his knuckles, before he kissed her cheek.
"I'll see you tomorrow."
Tia stood back sighing, watching him back his car out of the driveway, before officially knowing what she was planning on doing. Today would be the last day that this town believed Bug was a rapist.
The next day...
Tia made sure to pencil her name into helping out in the office the week before. Usually there was a rotating schedule for extra credit for anyone who had study hall first period or last. Tia already had the tape ready, and knew she was taking one Hell of a risk. Still, she had to try. Looking at Bug the night before laying on her living room floor, laughing, and playing with his daughter, she knew she couldn't stand back and watch this go on any longer. The morning announcements were always pre-recorded by the principal. The tape and player were right next to the microphone, where whoever was assigned to work the PA system, would read off a list if there was any new news, or things added for weekly reminders. The principal and vice principal were out at meetings for the entire day, or Mrs. Criss, the dean of students was left in charge. Tia, Corey Farren, and Alice Sterling, were the three assigned to the office. Corey was in charge of counting the school store, snack bar, and fundraiser money. Alice was in charge of answering phones, and Tia thankfully was in charge of the PA system. She was nervous, but knew it was now or never. Mrs. Criss was on a phone call in her office, and had her door shut. Corey was counting money in the other room, and Alice looked bored sitting behind the main desk, where Mrs. Criss usually was seated. She was currently blowing large bubbles with her chewing gym, or glancing down at the latest issue of Tiger Beat she kept hidden in her Trapper Keeper.
Tia dug into her purse, and took out the rape recorder. She had it all synced up, but saw her hands were slightly trembling. For a brief moment, she tried to think back on how truly awful he had been the year before. How he had lost his temper, screaming at her when she refused to go further with him. How he had yelled at her, mocking her, then went downstairs and picked up the next girl that was drunk to try and take advantage of. She thought back at what a punk he was screaming and swearing his head off after Buck tossed him out of his trunk. He thought of how awkward things were in the following weeks at he had avoided her, most likely scared that she might call Buck up or something. Then Lucy moved to town and the rest was history... She then thought of him laying on the floor laughing with his daughter, and knew that the Bug she had the bad memories with was long gone. Sighing, she watched the clock, then knew it was time. Taking a deep breath, she rolled her chair over, licked her lips, felt the nervous fluttering toss in her stomach, before she took out her tape recorder, finger lingering on the play button. She pressed the microphone on, her voice filling every speaker, and every room in the entire highschool. She spoke clearly.
"Attention staff and students, I'm about to play a very important phone conversation with Lucy's grandmother who wanted to set the record straight."
She saw Alice staring at her, raising an eyebrow, before she pressed play. Instantly Lucy's grandmother's voice filled the speakers.
"What I'm saying is Burton never raped my granddaughter. She made the entire thing up..."
Tia sat back, knowing the tape was only two or so minutes in total. Even if the plug got pulled now, the first few sentences were enough, and that's all that mattered. She sat back, unaware that Mrs. Criss had stormed in, looking white as a sheet.
At the end of the day...
She was given detention, but after her mother was called she had a feeling from the sounds of her mother's voice rising on the other side of Mrs. Criss' door, she knew she would probably get out of it, which in all honestly she didn't even care. She would proudly serve detention for the rest of the year if it still meant she got to accomplish what she did. Word spread like wildfire through the school, and as she sat waiting for her mother to arrive, at least three or so dozen people cheered her name, clapped, or waved at her as they walked by the office. Tia rolled her eyes, before Alice ran up to her as Mrs. Criss was calling her mother.
"Was the tape real? Did you really call Lucy's grandmother? Did Bug make you do this?"
Tia shook her head.
"No, Bug didn't want anyone to know because he didn't want to cause any trouble. I found her number and called her myself behind his back. I'm sure he's pretty pissed, but I couldn't stand people calling him a rapist for another day. It wasn't right."
Alice frowned, before she nudged her.
"Are you guys...like getting back together?"
Tia shrugged.
"All that matters is that the truth comes out. Bug never raped anyone. I have Lucy's grandmother's number if nobody believes me. I know you can spread the word fast Alice. Bug probably won't want to talk about it, but make sure everyone knows. Plus I made copies of the tape in case nobody heard it this morning, here you can have this one..."
She dug into her purse, and popped the tape out, handing it over to a very stunned Alice. Afterwards, when she left and her mother arrived, she didn't look angry. Instead she just patted her daughter's hand, before entering Mrs. Criss' office since she was left in charge. Twenty or so minutes passed, and finally she left, fixing the strap of her purse over her shoulder. Mrs. Criss frowned, before going back into her office. Now alone. her mother walked over and smiled.
"I have a meeting with your principles later this week, and you're suspended for the remainder of the week. They said if Bug's parents want to be in the meeting, they could press charges, but something tells me that won't happen."
Tia sighed staring up at her.
"Are you mad at me?"
Her mother took a second, before she softly smiled and shook her head.
"No, I'm proud of you. It's about time that boy has some people on his side. You're absolutely right. People needed to know. His parents won't do anything, and if they do your father and I will be ready. You've done your part now Tia, whatever else happens it's between Bug and his family. I'm proud of you though. Now I gotta get back to work. Do you want me to drive you?"
Tia smiled.
"No, I'm okay. Everyone is in class, I'll grab my books and take off."
"Okay, head straight home."
"I might swing by and talk to Bug later if that's okay? He had no idea that I was going to do this..."
Her mother frowned, and brushed some of her hair away from her face.
"If he's upset, leave him be. I think he has a lot going on right now. He'll come around, and even if he doesn't, you know you helped."
"Thanks mom..."
Rising, she hugged her mother tight, before her mother kissed her on the cheek before leaving. Wanting to make good on her promise, she headed to her locker, took her books out that she figured she would need for the rest of the week, before locking it back up. She started out towards the back when she heard her name.
"Tia!"
It was whispered, but she still heard it. She turned and saw Bug wearing his black hat, wearing his jacket, and standing by the rear doors where kids usually went out to smoke. He stood there and didn't look happy. Sighing, Tia nervously chewed on her lip, before she hurried over. He walked outside, and she followed him, where they were hidden behind the back steps. Standing there, hands shoved in his pockets he sighed and stared at her. Tia fixed her messenger bag, and stared at him. He had his back to her, before he turned, his eyes wild.
"Are have to be fucking kidding me Tia...are you serious?!"
Tia dropped her eyes and sighed.
"I know it wasn't my place..."
"You're damn right it wasn't. Jesus! To the whole school?!"
Tia lifted her eyes, feeling angry herself.
"That was the only way to set the record straight."
"I told you I didn't want to make waves. I told you I didn't care..."
"Yeah well you should have. This is bullshit. I really don't know what to say. You have a daughter now, and people deserve to know the truth. You never raped Lucy. Lady isn't a result of some terrible thing. She lied, and it got out of control. She was a stupid kid just like you. I know you don't care, and I know there's something more to whatever is going on between you and your parents, but I care about you, Bug. Maybe you don't, but I do. I couldn't stand back and watch anymore. If you don't want to talk to me ever again, fine, but at least I did something. You don't need to keep punishing yourself anymore, Bug. You aren't alone anymore in this anymore, you have a daughter now. She deserves to know the truth."
Tia went to push past Bug, when he took hold firmly of her arm, causing her to turn towards him. Bug stared at her, eyes filled with tears of anger, before he blinked.
"My parents are away from the week...could you swing by after school and we'll talk?"
Tia stared at him.
"No more bullshit?"
"No more. I promise."
Tia nodded, before she wiped her own eyes.
"Fine, I'll be there around three-thirty four okay?"
"Okay."
With that, Tia walked away, heart pounding as she headed home.
Later that afternoon... Tia got to Bug's guest house a little early. She had gotten home, showered, dried her hair, and changed into tights, a skirt, and button down blouse. She had lunch, and even ran the vacuum downstairs, as well as taking Parcy out, and cleaned the kitchen. She figured it was the least she could do. Her father would be home early, and was taking Miles and Maizy out to the mall. She picked up a little more, before watching the clock, and deciding she had waited enough, and started walking. Once she got there, she lightly knocked on the sliding glass door and hadn't heard anything. Waiting another minute, she finally slid the door open and walked inside. She could hear the shower running, and the sounds of Bug singing. Standing there. Tia smiled to herself listening, as she went to the sink, and washed some of Lady's bottles out, before the shower stopped. She could hear Bug in the other room talking to Lady. "Now we're all clean. Huh little girl? Did daddy and Lady take a shower? Yes, yes they did!" He sang a few choppy verses to the song "My Girl" causing Tia to hold back from laughing.
Then, Bug walked out of the bathroom. A towel wrapped around his waist, his hair wet and slicked back, bare chested, with Lady, wrapped up in another towel against his arms. He looked surprised seeing her.
"Tia! Jesus! You scared me!"
Tia smiled before motioning towards the sliding glass door with her head.
"I told you. Really gotta start locking that thing...I did enjoy the Star Search song though."
Bug took a second, before he rolled his eyes, and laughed. He held Lady up against him, before leaning in, and blowing a raspberry up against Lady's skin. She gurgled, and giggled. Tia laughed, walking over, before taking Lady from Bug's arms. She glanced at his bare slick chest and smiled. Taking the baby, she motioned to the nursery.
"Can I change her?"
"Yeah, I was going to put her down with a bottle, she's been taking it in the crib..."
"Sweet, come on."
"Let me get changed..."
"There will be time for that, come on help."
Bug smirked, before he followed her into the small nursery. Once Tia got Lady down on the changing able, she smiled and looked over at Bug.
"Are you pissed at me?"
Bug sighed, taking out a fresh diaper, and baby powder. He shrugged.
"I wasn't thrilled when I heard it over the PA system, but for the first time in over a year I actually had people walk up to me and look me in the eye. Most of them were being just nosy and wanting to talk, but a good chunk of them I could tell meant it. There were a ton of questions that I wasn't about to answer, but never able to. Some teachers and councliers even approached me and said their doors would always be open. Half of it I think is bullshit, the other half honestly might really mean it."
"Will your parents do anything?"
Bug shook his head as he put Lady into a fresh diaper. He tickled her belly with his fingers as he shook his head.
"No, they don't care as long as I just keep my mouth shut and keep raising the baby. I'm sure my dad will be pissed since everyone isn't treating me like the monster of the neighborhood, but he doesn't care at the end of the day so it's whatever..."
He then turned towards Tia and smiled.
"What you did was crazy, but it meant a lot."
"I just knew the truth needed to be told. Lucy would have wanted that at least. You guys made plenty of mistakes, but this little girl isn't one of them. You're not alone..."
Bug smirked, as he took a onesie out, and with Tia's help, poured her into it, before he sadly smiled.
"Thank you Tia. You don't owe me anything...but I know you were thinking about my little girl's future, so thank you."
Tia was about to say something, when she saw the bruises on Bug's side, a pretty nasty bruise, about the size of a fist.
"Jesus! Where did you get that?"
She went to touch it, but Bug scooped up the baby and turned.
"Um, I bumped into a table, let me get her bottle ready..."
He left the nursery quickly, and right away Tia got that same old uneasy feeling lurking over her. She signed, following him, carrying a pair of socks for Lady. Once she got into the kitchen, Bug had Lady up against his hip, hiding the bruise, as he heated the bottle up on the stove. He was humming "My girl" again, and Tia sighed walking over.
"Let me get these on her..."
Bug glanced over, before he handed her to Tia who looked down at the bruises. She then touched his bare shoulder, causing him to look over.
"You don't need to say anything. I won't say a word but...was that from your dad?"
Bug eyed Tia, before testing the water on his wrist. Tia nudged him.
"Bug..."
Bug nodded, and that was all she needed to hear. She sighed. She had only met Bug's father a few times, and remembered he had absolutely no issue humiliating his son, ot belitteing, or screaming whenever Tia swung by when they were dating. She knew he was a rich asshole, and sometimes he made her uncomfortable, constantly picking on Bug, saying he was a faggot with his hair, that his grades weren't ever good enough, and that he was a pussy. Bug always shrugged it off, never wanting to talk about it, but Tia knew better. She had seen a few bruises, but whenever she tried to casually bring it up, Bug would get moody. She figured this explained a lot of his personality.
"Has it been happening a lot lately?"
Bug shut the stove off, and tested the milk this time against his arm. He sighed, before looking at Tia.
"Here and there. It's gotten worse since the baby was born. He's a sadist. He enjoys seeing me suffer, and loves control. I'm just keeping my head down until I get my grandfather's money and I'm taking Lady and never looking back."
"Does he beat you?"
Bug shrugs.
"We barley see each other. As long as he doesn't touch Lady. I honestly think I would kill him."
"Why don't you go to the police?"
"Because he owns half of the station, and is best friends with the rest. Even if I went to another town or city, I'm risking too much. Look at how much fun he had making the town believe that lie that I was a rapist. I'm sure he'll find out and give me Hell, but I'm keeping my head down..."
"I hope I didn't cause you any trouble..."
"You didn't. I'm glad some people know the truth now. You're right. I can't be isolated like this. It's going to kill me. I need to think about Lady..."
"Why did he hit you?"
Bug shrugged.
"That might be too long of a story. Maybe another night. But...not to sound dramatic but..."
He walked over to the fold-out couch, and lifted something off the nightstand. It was a necklace, she thought she saw him wearing it, but it was always tucked into his shirt. She had noticed him wear it even when they dated, but not all the time. She never asked about it, figuring maybe it was a good luck charm.
"You're the only person that knows about this, but if anything ever happens to me..."
"Bug..."
"No listen, if anything ever happens to me, take this key. There's a locker at the airport, you'll figure out the passcode to it...but it's my insurance polcy. I'm not telling you what's in it, but a few years back I decided to rent out the locker and store what I needed in it."
"What's in it?"
"Only if anything ever happens to me. I don't think my father is that crazy, but just in case. He gets drunk sometimes and pushes me around, enjoying it...but your the only person that knows about this. I'm trusting you Tia. My plan is when I turn twenty-five and I'm out of here...this key, the locker number and combo will go to the police. My dad will hopefully get what's coming to him...not before then. Only if something happens to me...not a day before. Understand?" "Bug..." "No, I can't have you getting curious and doing your own investigating like you did with Lucy's grandmother. You go behind my back and that's it. Understand? I'm safe and so isn't Lady. That's all that matters. It won't make much of a difference if I sit on it, but when I'm 25 and that money is mine free and clear, I'll let you know what's inside it, Hell...if we're still together we'll deliver it to the police station together. The only way I want you to go yourself is in case something happens to me."
"Do you think your dad might take it too far?"
"Oh he has, but no I'm not worried about him. I trust you Tia. No more questions okay?"
"Okay, but...if he keeps hurting you we gotta talk again okay?"
Bug nodded, before Tia took the bottle.
"Let's put her down..."
They walked together to the nursery, before Tia wound up the mobile hanging over Lady's crib. She took her bottle alone, staring up at them, before Tia smiled.
"God she's beautiful. Things might be a little better at school for you now."
Bug shrugged.
"You know I don't care about that..."
"I know, but if things get too intense here, my mother wants you to know we have a guest bedroom, and you're welcome at my house anytime. She loves Lady. Bug smiled, staring down at his daughter. "Thanks, she's been awesome. Means a lot. Was she pissed you got in trouble?"
"Are you kidding? She came down to the office and was pumped. Pretty proud of me actually."
"Detention?"
"Suspected for the week so I get a mini vacation. I'm pretty excited. My mom also wants to invite you to dinner tomorrow night, she mentioned it last night. I think she just wants an excuse to fuss over Lady...which bring some extra outfits for her tomorrow. I need to snap photos for my photography project. Besides, you need some photos of your kid. I'll print them out for you...can start a baby album or something."
Bug smirked.
"Yeah? You wanna take photos of Lady?"
"Hell yeah. Cute babies will always get me an A. Besides, I don't want to spoil it but my mom was totally talking about maybe surprising you with a baby album since you don't have any idea what you're doing...so let her have her fun and act surprised."
Bug laughed leaning over the crib, looking down at the baby.
"Okay sounds good."
Tia smiled, before looking down at the baby.
"What's her middle name? Does she have one?"
"Um...yeah Beverly. After my sister."
"Your twin who died at birth?"
"Yeah..."
Sadly smiling, Bug pulled up the blankets up to Lady, who continued gazing up at him. Tia smiled, and leaned against him.
"I like that alot. Look at her, she can't take her eyes off you. She loves you."
Bug smiled, before Tia nodded, and motioned to the door.
"Come on, I wanna ask you something. I need a favor."
Bug raised an eyebrow, before Tia walked out of the nursery.
A few minutes later...
Tia had drawn the curtains to the sliding glass door and locked it. They had the baby monitor, and Bug sat on the foldout couch still in just a towel. She had just finished explaining what she wanted, and Bug sat there stunned.
"Wait...what?"
Tia smiled.
"I want you to take my virginity. I'm ready."
Bug rolled his eyes.
"Tia get serious..."
"No, I mean it. I'm ready...I want this, it isn't a pity screw. I'm ready, and I want you to do it."
"Tia, with our history...maybe we should take this slow. I care about you a lot but..."
"Bug, I'm on the pill. I want this, and my uncle isn't waiting in the closet with a baseball bat. Now...are you ready to do this or what?"
Bug sat back stunned.
Later...
"I'm not hurting you am I?"
Tia rolled her eyes, laying on the foldout closet in her bra with Bug underneath the covers. The baby monitor was on the nightstand, and Bug was currently laying between Tia's spread legs, in the missionary position, dully thrusting into her. The foldout couch creaked, as Bug stared down, face flushed, clearly nervous. Tia shook her head.
"You've asked that like a million times. It hurt a little going in, but I'm fine now Bug, now don't stop!"
Bug took a deep breath, his drying hair hanging down, before he tried to focus again, and stared ahead, moving in and out of her. Tia laid beneath him, holding onto his shoulders, before a small smile spread across her face. It had been weird, and more than a little uncomfortable, but laying here she now realized she honestly had been scared of nothing all those years ago. Bug and her were having sex. She was finally having sex, and in all honestly she could say it to herself right here and now...she loved him. Bug started thrusting into her faster, the creaking of the pullout couch, along with Bug's heavy breathing, being the only sound in the room. Tia held onto him tighter, when he bowed his head, and whispered as he tried to breath...
"I'm gonna cum...I'm gonna cum..."
He went into her once, twice, then stiffened, and snapped his eyes shut. Tia felt warmth, as he held onto her tightly, before collapsing. Tia laid back stunned, before slowly he raised his face, flushed with color, sweat rolling down. He gave a small nervous laugh.
"I know I'm not supposed to ask you again, but are you...okay?"
Tia laid there for a second, before she smiled, and compltely took him off guard as she grabbed onto him, and flipped herself to lay on top of him. Bug's eyes widened, as Tia smiled and leaned down, kissing his chest.
"Come on, get hard again. Let's do it again."
Bug laughed, staring up at her as if she was crazy.
