A/N: Hello, everyone! I hope you are all doing well and staying safe.
I'm introducing an idea that I was tossing around from the very beginning, which ultimately resulted in not using until the rewrite. So, there are some significant changes in this chapter from dialogue changes and additional scenes.
I hope you all enjoy the read.
The overturned couch is appealing. It laid on its side as a reminder of what happened moments ago.
Ruth stares at it, tears threatening to fall. She recalls running like a bat out of hell down the street—her cries for help gone unanswered. Ruth had never been so terrified or angry before. It felt like she was a different person, an uncaged beast that left its confinement to terrorize unsuspecting and innocent lives and lay waste on them from that unfamiliar yet unrelenting rage. That frightened her—the Hyde to her Jekyll.
Ruth shudders from memory, and eyes drifted from the couch to the dried blood trail. She didn't stop for anything last night, shoes especially. Ruth ran here a blubbering mess. She even called out for Pennywise while Ruth ran. At that point, Ruth didn't care who heard her. It was the first name that came to mind and the only person slash thing that might bother to help.
She remembers crashing inside, stumbling over here, and collapsed. Ruth wailed, bawling her eyes out. She thought things were okay after he gifted those fake pearl earrings. It was all a lie. Jonathan has tried on several occasions advancing on her like that. Except, he was driven by rage. It took her a little over an hour to calm down. By that time, Pennywise came around. Ruth knew he was there from the cold prickle running down her spine. She's glad he didn't do anything to scare her. Otherwise, Ruth would have clubbed him again like usual. Although, Pennywise would have distracted Ruth from the horrid memory of her father trying to rape her.
Ruth thought about going to Mike's. Except, being in a new environment would put her on edge. Plus, she wouldn't be able to talk when Ruth got there. Plus, she doesn't think they would know how to console her. Ruth knows what would happen once she was able to speak. Jonathan would be put away, along with Jordan. They deserve it anyway. But Ruth doesn't want to take immediate action, at least not yet. She more so wants to talk with someone first.
The thought of going into town and looking for Mike came to mind. Ruth then remembered he left his number. She can call him from a payphone and have him meet her somewhere. If she does follow through with this plan, Ruth must be careful of where she goes. Jonathan has eyes around town. They can call and inform Jonathan of what Ruth is doing. It's a risk worth taking, though. Ruth had enough.
Ruth sighs heavily, unsure of what to do right now. A few tears rolled down her cheeks, but she is quick to ripe them away. Ruth does not want to go home, that is for sure. However, she can't hide here forever. Well, she could if Ruth had the necessities to survive. Ruth will put together a survival kit, along with a plethora of clothes, just in case something were to happen. She will also slowly bring her nonessentials here, such as notebooks and art supplies. Ruth will at least do her chores while both Jordan and Jonathan are gone during the day. She'll come back here in the afternoons and stay until curfew. Ruth plans on eating whatever is around for dinner there. If Jonathan cooks, she'll have her dinner in the room. If he forces her to eat in the dining room, Ruth will. She'll keep her mouth shut and only answer when asked. Doing all of this will make them believe Ruth has no choice but to stay there. Ruth will sneak out around eight-thirty to come back here when they're both asleep and return an hour before they wake in the morning. She doesn't need them to know Ruth is devising her escape.
Is it worth it, though? Ruth questioned herself.
Ruth sighs. She looks about the room, searching for Pennywise. The only thing that is with her is the overturned couch. She curves her lips from remembering his obnoxious clown shoes sticking straight in the air. Ruth didn't know he was there. She was startled by him, but Ruth wasn't going to allow the creature to frighten her. He may be intimidating, but Ruth can tell there is more to him than this scary exterior. Perhaps she can draw out the funnier side of him.
Yeah, that is a big maybe, Ruth thought to herself.
Ruth heaves one more sigh then crawled to the couch. She sets it on its feet without a struggle. When the furniture was back in place, Ruth heard something lightly clatter to the floor. Curious, she searched for it. Ruth ended up finding several Crackerjack prizes. One is a plastic horse figurine, and the other a red balloon sticker. Her lips curve into a gentle smile at the small gifts. These two prizes are because Ruth made up for forgetting the other day's box. She came here earlier yesterday and offered two Crackerjacks instead of one. Pennywise was ecstatic, of course, and Ruth got a chuckle out of his reaction.
She sighs softly then started to stand from her spot when Ruth's eyes caught something else. There is a torn piece of cardboard from a Crackerjack box. Confused, Ruth reaches out to inspect it. Upon closer inspection, there is writing on the brown side of the package.
You're safe here.
Ruth stares, blinking as warmth swelled in her chest. She smiles wide, then presses her lips when tears stung her eyes. It may be three simple words, but they meant a lot to her. Pennywise might be this horrific creature that scares children, but he is showing some compassion.
"Thank you," Ruth whispers.
She glances over her shoulder into the shadows. Ruth doesn't see him, but the cold prickle going along her spine told her differently. Pennywise is around, just not in plain sight.
So, that's what the cold shiver is about. Pennywise is nearby, watching, Ruth thought.
Ruth smiles still as she slowly stood to her feet. The smile vanishes into a grimace and yells out as Ruth fell to her ass again. She glances down at her bare feet, seething as the small lacerations which stung and throbbed unpleasantly. She looks around the room for anything to cover them, finding nothing.
"Christ, I guess I better invest in a first aid kit if Neibolt is going to be my safe place."
Ruth reached for the blanket with a heavy sigh to use a couple of strips to protect the lacerations. She would have to head home and clean them properly before going into town.
Ruth will call Mike. She needs help. Is there a possibility of him becoming her friend? It's probable, but she can't be too trusting of him yet. Mike needs to play his cards right to gain her trust. She thought about what to say while Ruth ripped the sheet and used the two to cover her feet. There's a lot Ruth needs to tell him. Ruth just hopes she is doing the right thing in turning to him.
With a sigh, Ruth's eyes land on the shadows again. The feeling of Pennywise watching her seemed more calming than eerie for some reason. She hums then turned away.
"I'll be back this afternoon," Ruth replies cheerily to the dark wood, tying the strips around her feet.
"I can't take it anymore. I need to tell someone before Jonathan ends up killing me. Even though I would much rather prefer if I did die, it's not like there's anything here for me to fight for anyway. Everyone hates me, you know. I'm the Bastard Kid, the town whore's daughter, the unwanted child, and disease. God, I hate that name."
She paused her work when a thought struck here. Ruth glances over her shoulder at the dark corner. Pennywise is still near, listening.
"Maybe, you can. Will you kill me if I asked you?"
There's silence in the room.
She waited for an answer from him or even a gesture, yet there was nothing. His presence slowly faded, as if leaving her.
"Pennywise?"
No answer.
Ruth sadly frowns, sighing heavily. She doesn't understand why she asked him that. Asking someone, well thing, to kill her is cruel.
"Why am I so desperate to die? Maybe I'm just depressed, or maybe, I'm just tired of living."
She shoves her depressing thoughts away with a shake of her head then stood to her feet with difficulty. Ruth slowly leaves the room and the house altogether.
In the shadows, Pennywise watched her leave. His innocent blues pierced the dark as he eyed her back sadly. Ruth's question if he would kill her when she asked haunted his mind. He could hear the shame ridden in her voice and see the pain in her eyes. Despite seeking help, the irritating child is losing her fight. She needs more than aid or someone to talk with. Ruth needs something worth fighting for.
Hopefully, this Mike boy will provide her that fight, Pennywise thought, then disappeared further into the shadows.
Typically, walking from Neibolt to her house on Witcham Street took thirty minutes. With the small cuts on her feet, it took Ruth an hour. It's nine-thirty now. Both of her parents are gone. Ruth stumbled through her window, settling herself on the mattress. Her bed is more comfortable than the couch, that's for sure. Except, Ruth doesn't want to sleep. She needs to clean and bandage her feet. Ruth will do whatever chores Jonathan left for her if there are any. If not, she'll just go into town and find a payphone. Ruth doesn't want to call Mike here. If for whatever reason, Jonathan came home and heard her conversation, she's dead. She must do this outside the house.
Thankfully, Jonathan left no chores for her. In fact, he gave her a "free" day. Either Jonathan felt guilty for what happened or is making her feel comfortable. Ruth believes in the second option. She is still going to enjoy the break, though. When Ruth bandaged her feet and found nothing in the house to eat, she came here. Ruth stood uncomfortably on her feet at a payphone. She already dialed the number Mike gave her and is impatiently waiting.
She can only hope Mike will be able to talk.
As she stood, something didn't settle right on her neck as it stiffened and tensed. A tingling feeling starts to spread from her shoulders blades down the spine and all over. Her breath quickens, and hands shook despite gripping the phone tightly.
Someone is watching her.
"Come on, come on," Ruth mumbles.
It rang for a moment or two, making her nervous.
"Oh, god, please, Mike. Why aren't you answering?"
When it rang for the seventh time, Ruth's heart drops to her stomach, and the feeling of being watched intensified.
She sighs heavily, "Oh, fuck, he lied."
Ruth pulled the earpiece away to drop it in the cradle, only to stop.
"Hello?" It was Mike's voice.
Ruth held her breath.
"Hello?" He questioned again.
When she didn't answer for the second time, Mike impatiently huffs.
"Yo, is someone there?"
"Mike?" Ruth starts with a shudder and uncertainty in her voice.
"Ruth?" He sounds alarmed.
She sighs heavily, glancing around for anyone watching her. Ruth doesn't see them, but she can feel their eyes on her. At first, Ruth thought they were watching her with hostility because it is pretty normal for her to sense. However, it seems different from all the rest. This feels comforting and warm. Her unseen watcher is looking out for her safety. How does Ruth know? She just does. Ruth glanced around for them, hoping to find whoever is guarding her but saw no one still.
Alright, I wonder who is stalking me? Ruth thought to herself.
"Hello, Ruth?"
Mike's voice startled Ruth, which also made her jump.
"Oh, Mike. Yeah, it's me."
"Ruth? Is everything alright?" Mike asks urgently.
She uneasily sighs, still watching out for people and her potential protective stalker.
"I need your help."
"What's going on, Ruth? Are you okay? Did that sum bitch hit you again? Where are you at? I'll come_."
"Mike!" Ruth spoke over him.
"Oh, Sorry. Too many questions at once. Just answer this, are you okay?"
"I'm," she pauses for a moment, thinking. Ruth sighs heavily into the receiver. "I'm okay. Although, I feel like I'm being watched right now. Can we meet somewhere so we can talk privately?"
"Yeah, yeah, we can. Would you like to come here where there are people around in case your stalker decides to do something?"
"I don't believe their intention is to hurt me, Mike. Just from the way their eyes are on me, they are just watching."
"But you shouldn't take any chances when you have someone stalking you when you are trying to sort out your living conditions. So, how about we met at the house on Neibolt? No one hardly ever goes there, but there is a neighborhood nearby if there were any trouble."
"No! No, not there." Ruth had to shoot that down fast.
It's her safe place. She doesn't want to invite anyone there without Pennywise's knowledge. He'll kill her.
"Oh, okay. I guess you're afraid of the place like everyone else. How about Bassey Park?"
Ruth hums. "I don't think so. It would just give my stalker options to go unseen. How about the back parking lot at the high school?"
"Huh, I don't know why I didn't think of that. No one is going to be around except for maybe a janitor. Plus, it's wide open. It will be hard for anyone to sneak up on you."
"Exactly. How long will it be for you to meet me there? I'm fifteen minutes away from the high school."
"You'll get there before I would by a few minutes. I'm twenty minutes out. Now, if I were anything like Flash Gordon, I would be with you by now."
Ruth chuckles, leaning against the phone booth outside and twirling her hair. She looks around again to make sure other than her stalker was watching.
"You're cute. So, I'll see you in twenty?"
"Yeah, I'll see you in twenty minutes."
"And Mike, one more thing."
"Yeah?"
She hesitates for a moment, feeling slightly guilty for asking this. "I hate to ask of this, but could I bother you in bringing me something to eat? I couldn't_."
"Hey, grandad! Mind if I take a couple of chicken biscuits with? Ruth hasn't eaten yet!" Mike called to his grandfather.
"I don't care if you brought the whole damn plate! Your girlfriend needs some meat on her bones!"Leroy had yelled jokingly.
"Grandad!" Mike yells, offended. "And Ruth is not my girlfriend!"
Ruth just laughs, highly amused. "Your grandfather is cool with me, Mike. I've seen him around a couple of times. Tell Leroy I said 'Hi.'"
"Alright, I'll do that. I'll see you soon, Ruth."
"See you soon," Ruth replies, then hung up.
She stares at the phone for a moment, and weight suddenly lifts off her shoulders.
Holy shit, am I seriously doing this?
Ruth heaves a sigh then glances around. She died inside when Ruth saw Belch's Trans-Am turn a corner and is headed her way.
"Oh, come on!" Ruth groans and visibly sags.
She knows they saw her since he sped down the street. Ruth can't run. She won't get far anyway. So, Ruth leans against the payphone in defeat.
Within seconds, Belch screeches to a halt. Ruth sighs as the three of them stepped out.
"I'm really not in the mood for you three stooges." Ruth drones tiredly.
"I guess I'm Curly then," Belch replies with a friendly grin and lightly pats her shoulder with a rub.
She returns the grin with a tilt of her head. "Yep, here you got, Larry," Ruth motions to Victor, who smirks with a wink. "And the brains of the group, Moe." She finished, glaring at Henry.
He rolls his eyes with a sneer, "Shut up."
"I'm glad to see you are okay," Belch says, giving her a once over.
"Yeah, you gave us quite a fright, sweet cheeks. You nearly got yourself killed." Victor replies.
Ruth half smirked, "Sorry to have scared you."
"We haven't seen you around for a couple of days. We just wanted to see if you were alright." Henry states, eyeing Ruth strangely.
She rightfully glares at him, "Just trying to stay out of the public eye."
"You are doing okay, though, right?" Belch asked her, noticing the exhaustion in Ruth's eyes.
Ruth lightly smiles, "Yeah, I'm doing okay. It could be better, though. Thanks for your concern, Reggie."
Henry glances from Ruth to Belch, connecting some dots. He knows that Belch and Ruth have this strange sibling-like bond. To see and hear him express concern for her unnerved Henry. He sighs heavily, giving Ruth a once over. Henry is still clueless about the abuse marks on Ruth.
"I'm glad to see you are in one piece. It was a good thing that black kid pulled you out of the way."
Ruth stares at him briefly. She wants to yell at him for getting her into trouble with Jonathan. Yet, Ruth also wanted to wail at him for beating the tar out of Ben, but she lacked the energy. Instead, she kept her mouth shut and contained her bubbling rage. Ruth glances at Victor, who is relieved himself and tries to smile but couldn't. Ruth doesn't have the strength to do so.
I'm starting to wish he hadn't, Ruth thought.
"Yeah, me, too. I need to go." Ruth replies softly and lowly.
She ignores their concerned frowns and gazes. They can tell something is off, but neither of them wanted to say anything. It is okay with her. Belch was the only one to notice her limp while Henry and Victor got back in his car. He looks back at them then at Ruth.
"Hey, Ruth," Belch calls.
She turns, regarding him in exhaustion. "Yeah?"
"Do you need a ride somewhere?"
Henry snaps his gaze on Belch, his eyes wild. "What the hell are you doing, man?" He whispers harshly.
Belch ignores him. "Come on, Boss Lady. Wherever you need to go, I'll take you there."
"Belch," Henry growls lowly.
Ruth stares at Henry then at Belch. She wants to decline, but exhaustion from not sleeping much lately is taking its toll on Ruth. Walking to the high school would only wear Ruth down.
She sighs, "Yeah, I could. Will you take me to the back parking lot at the high school?"
"Sure. You get to ride shotgun," Belch replies quickly without question.
"Hey, I ride shotgun," Henry growls again.
"Not right now, you're not. Come on, Ruth. I'll help you over."
Ruth smiles appreciatively, following Belch to the passenger side. He had a hand on her shoulder while she did the same and opened the door for her.
Henry finally noticed Ruth slightly limp. "Why are you limping?"
"I tripped and sprained my ankle," Ruth lies tightly.
"And you're walking around town with a hurt ankle. Why?" Henry asked while hopping in the back, glaring at Ruth distastefully.
"I didn't want to stay cooped up in the house," she answers. "Can we go now?"
"Right on it, Boss Lady," Belch answers.
He turns to her, noticing something different about Ruth. Startled, Belch couldn't help himself in asking. "Are you sure you're okay?"
She doesn't answer, but Belch noticed her gulping. Ruth glanced sideways at him. Her lifeless hazel eyes told Belch something is wrong. Belch won't say anything out loud, but his eyes caught sight of the scars on her forearms.
Not too far away, Ruth's stalker listened in on the teenagers conversing from an alleyway corner. He watched as Ruth got in the car with the boys, grateful that neither laid any harm on her. A frown adorned his thick lips as the Trans-am drove down the road and disappeared.
"Clever girl," they muttered.
Despite the minor drawback of not watching her from a distance, the stalker continued his objective.
The Tall Stalker made his way to the high school and just watch out for Ruth a lot closer than he needs.
It's quiet back here, rightfully so. Ruth needs silence, though. Belch had dropped Ruth off at the high school several minutes ago. He, along with Henry and Victor, will be back around in half an hour. It's enough time for Ruth to tell Mike everything. She, of course, can't spend too much time with him here. Ruth doesn't want Henry or the boys to discover him with her. They will eventually tell Jonathan, well, Henry will, at least.
She heaves a heavy sigh. Ruth sat on one of the tables, staring at the pavement. She's still unsure if going to Mike is a good idea. Ruth wants to trust him. Except, him coming to her doorstep and telling Ruth he's going to help has her terrified. If he intends to help, Mike should have approached her on the street. That's one of the reasons why Ruth is having a hard time trusting him right now. He's straightforward and headstrong.
Ruth waited for Mike to arrive for at least five minutes, maybe even a little more. She did get here a lot earlier than him. The drive was ten minutes. Ruth observed her surroundings as she waited, taking in everything. She could use the back lot as inspiration for her next drawing. Maybe Ruth should start a series of sketchings of people's fears. Why she has this idea? Ruth doesn't know. She could turn her hobby into something to strive for as she always had an artistic eye. She gets excited when Jonathan enlists her to trim and shape the shrubs. The perfectionist in her comes to life.
Click
Ruth gasped softly from the sudden sound, extremely alarmed now.
Click, Click
The clicking sounds close by, almost several feet away from her.
Click, click, click
Ruth stood from the table to investigate the sound.
"Hey, who's there?"
She hears someone curse.
Someone is definitely here.
"Hey, I'm talking to you! Why are you stalking me?"
"Relax, kid," a male voice sounds from around the corner.
Ruth was several feet from approaching the intruder when he spoke again.
"Please don't come any closer."
She stopped at his request.
"Why? Do you not want to be seen? And you better answer my question. Why are you stalking me?"
"Can't answer that," the male replies.
"Why?"
"'Cause I don't want you to know anything, that's why."
Ruth grew annoyed by his insistence in not answering her questions. She glances over her shoulder for Mike, who has yet to show. Ruth wished he was here already. Maybe then Ruth and Mike could gang up on her stalker. She heaves a breathe, considering her next inquiry.
"Do you happen to have a match on you? Or even a lighter? Mine went out."
The question startled her because one, there are several of Jonathan's men that smoke. Second, Ruth's fears they might be one of the Clarke Brothers, Jackson, and Draven, who prefer to be called by their shortened names Jax and Dre. These two are Jonathan's favorite henchmen, as they have a reputation and are feared amongst others. They are vicious and love to harass Ruth whenever they get a chance. From what Ruth understands from their exchanges, she is fun to antagonize. The brothers like to push Ruth to the brink of tears and do things to her that even Jordan would not tolerate. They are also known to not say anything to Jonathan or Jordan, even when Jonathan urges them to report their encounters. Jordan has confronted them quite a few times and beaten some sense into the lustful animals.
From the sound of the stalker's voice, it is neither of them. Her stalker has a very pleasant, light, clear yet smokey masculine voice. So, Ruth is happy about that.
Hmm, he has a pleasant voice, Ruth thought to herself.
"Sorry, no, I don't smoke. You should consider quitting as it's not good for your lungs."
"I know it is. I only smoke when I'm stressed."
This fact caught her interest.
"Oh, why are you?"
"I'm not supposed to be this close while keeping an eye on you."
"Why not?"
"Can't answer that."
Ruth lightly groans with a pout.
"Can you answer any of my questions?"
"Only a few."
"Can you give me your name, maybe?"
"Nope, try again," the male answered with an unseen grin.
Ruth puckers her lips and ground her teeth.
"Okay, then, how about what you look like?"
"Ooh, I can't answer that one either," he replies.
"What about your age?"
"Nope," the stalker replies with a pop of his lips.
"Damnit! You are annoying! Okay, what can you not provide an answer for?"
"Anything about myself or my purpose."
Ruth then noticed the stalker had an accent when he mumbled something under his breath that was actually offensive.
"Hey, what did you just call me?"
"I didn't call you anything, kid."
"You called me something derogatory in Svenska, you rövhål!"
Click, click, click, click
The stalker groans suddenly.
"Christ, you're annoying!"
"I know, I get that a lot," Ruth replies with a grin.
"Gee, I wonder why. And how in the hell would you know Svenska? Nice pronunciation, by the way."
"Tack så mycket, and I decided to pick up another language to learn during the summer break."
"Damnit," the stalker growled. "Why couldn't you learn Spanish or German or even French? It's just my luck you would have to speak my native language."
"At least I get to learn something about you," Ruth replies proudly with a grin.
"Which I didn't want you to know anything about me, to begin with."
"And why not?"
"Can't answer that," he responded tightly.
Ruth opens her mouth to say something when a familiar voice interrupts, causing her to jump with a squeak and turn to acknowledge them.
"Hey, Ruth!"
Mike is riding in with a large grin on his face.
"Well, time for me to leave. That's a cute little squeak you have, by the way." The stalker replies suddenly.
Ruth glances back at the building edge, startled and with pink gracing her cheeks.
"Oh, um, you're leaving me already?"
"Uh, yeah. Your friend has arrived."
"Oh, he is not my friend. At least, not yet."
"Oh, why not?"
"Because I don't trust people easily."
The stalker paused for a second, as if considering his words.
"I understand what you mean. I don't trust easily, either."
Ruth's features soften from the cold detachment in his soft and intoxicating voice. She can only assume someone he was close with had betrayed him.
"Then it appears we have something in common."
He lightly chuckles and with an unseen soft smile.
"Yeah, it appears so. At least, you're in good hands now with your "not-your-friend" is here. It is the black kid, right?"
"It is, and his name is Mike."
"Oh, good. Now, if you excuse me, I need to go clean my ears out from your obnoxious voice."
Ruth puckered her lips and stepped close to the edge but kept to his request in not peering at him.
"You're a jerk! You know that!"
"Yeah, yeah, I know, I get that a lot. I'll be around, kid."
"Stop calling me, kid, rövhål!"
When the stalker didn't retort back, Ruth finally peered around the corner to look upon him. Her furious scowl falls when her eyes meet air.
The stalker is gone.
What the hell? How did he? Ruth's thought trails off when Mike skidded to a stop.
"Hey, who were you just talking to?" Mike asked upon approaching her from behind.
"My stalker," she growled in response and returned to sitting on the table with arms folded in front of her and pouting.
Mike gaped at her then turned the edge of the building, wondering if Ruth's stalker is still there.
"Your stalker? Is he still here?"
"No, he left already and quite quickly, too."
"You shouldn't have talked to him, Ruth. What if he?"
"He's not going to hurt me, Mike. I don't think that is his intention anyway."
"How can you be sure?"
Ruth paused for a moment to consider something. She recalled their brief exchange, noticing the hesitation in his voice now. Her stalker doesn't want to follow her around or reveal anything personal about himself. He's doing this for a reason, and Ruth wished she knew why. She noticed now that the guy had left, Ruth is on edge again, whereas she wasn't like that seconds ago. There is something about her stalker that is providing her a sense of calm. Pennywise does that, too, but not as much as this guy.
She sighs heavily, then glanced at Mike with a frown.
"I just know. Besides, he told me that it was you coming and not anyone else. So, whoever the guy is, he just wants to keep a close eye on me."
"I still have to wonder why, though. Here," Mike paused to hand her a foil-wrapped biscuit.
"Thanks, Mike. I hated asking you for some food_."
"Hey, don't feel guilty for asking me about bringing you something to eat. Like I told you before if you need anything, just call us. Rather it is helping you with the assholes or a chicken biscuit."
Ruth chuckles lightly with a soft smile, still unnerved and cold.
"Thank you for bringing me some. You're sweet. You know that?"
Mike blushes as he sat down next to her. He doesn't know why, but Mike glances at her feet. He saw the bandages along with the red mark on her arm. His blood boiled from the sight.
"So, that sum bitch father hit you, didn't he?" He says suddenly.
Ruth pauses, a little startled at his observation. She heaves a sigh then turns to him.
"Unfortunately. These were from me retaliating and protecting you, Mike."
She refused to tell him about the raging beast coming out of her. Ruth never knew she could get that angry and cause that kind of damage to a person. It almost felt like she was a different person.
He stares, startled himself. "What do you mean?"
"Two words: Henry Bowers."
Mike deadpans then wrinkles his nose. "Damn! I forgot about that Mullet Head being there. Let me guess, he called to check on you and blabbed about what happened."
"Exactly. Jonathan even called the library to validate if you were there."
"Christ! He pulled some Sherlock Holmes shit. I need to be more careful like granddad said."
Ruth stares at him, rigid. "Wait, Leroy knows?"
"I only told him what I know from what I've seen so far. I went to him for advice on how I could best help you. I didn't want to do anything stupid to put you in jeopardy. Although it sounds like I did. I should have waited until I saw you in town to return the book. I'm sorry I got you in that trouble, Ruth."
She lightly smiles at him, grateful for Mike seeking advice. "Thank you, Mike."
"You're welcome, Ruth. Tell me, how long has this been going on?"
Ruth breathes sharply, preparing herself. She laid it out thick for Mike. She told him everything he needed to know, from how long to the suicidal thoughts. As Ruth spoke, not once did Mike interrupt. He sat there, listening to every bit. Mike, of course, would contort his features in rage or pity. He even touched her shoulder and rubbed her back. It was him giving Ruth comfort. The strange thing about it all was that Ruth never cried. There were a few occasions where she wanted to, only to hold them back.
Mike let her talk it out for the last ten minutes. The milk he brought for her had gone warm, but the few biscuits were gone. He realized then how underfed Ruth is. The poor girl is living in a decent house where the parents don't feed themselves. Mike should have Ruth stay with him where it's safe and have a plethora of food for her to choose from.
When she had finished telling him, Mike gently takes her hand in his. He eyes their entwined fingers, feeling oddly excited about their budding relationship. Mike is touched that she turned to him for help. He certainly does not want to disappoint her, either.
"I'm going to get you out of there, Ruth," he says suddenly with conviction.
Ruth gently smiles, blushing as she eyed their hands. "I hope so. I can't take it anymore, and I do not want to stay there either. At this point, I have someplace I can go to get away from it all."
"Where is that?" Mike asked, curious.
"I can't say," she replies flatly.
"Why not?"
"Please remember, Mike. I need time to trust you. Not to offend you or anything. I don't want to trust someone completely and then get burned."
Mike nods, understanding. "Understandable. Granddad said the same thing. If you have someplace to go where it's safe, then go there. Just know, our door is open if you want a warm bed and meal."
Ruth smiles, "Thank you, Mike. You really are a sweetheart."
He blushes deeply. "You're welcome, Ruth."
His entwined fingers brush her knuckles, smiling. For some strange reason, this felt right. Mike knows it is too soon, but he is beginning to like Ruth. His granddad is right. Mike does have a crush on her, and it's not because of her appearance either. There is something about Ruth that Mike is attracted to. He wants to figure out what that is.
"I know you wanted to talk about everything, but I have yet to learn anything about you. Other than reading, do you have any other hobbies?"
Ruth regards him with a smirk. "Well, I do like to draw. I don't think I'm any good, though."
"I'll be the judge of that. The only thing I can draw is stick figures and apples."
She chuckles, "I can see that. I also like to write. I may have to show you some of my work."
"Well, here's an idea. Are you planning on going to the Fourth of July fair this year?"
"I know I don't want to be home, but I would need to get permission first. Why do you ask?"
"Well, if you can, do you want to, you know, go with me? I'll pay for entry and anything else for you."
Ruth tilts her head, grinning wildly. "Are you asking me out on a date, Mikey?"
"Yeah, I think I am."
Ruth knows she shouldn't. The fair will be crowded with people. Everyone knows she is off limits for whatever reason. If anyone sees her with Mike, she's done for. Except, how can she ignore a cute boy who just asked her out? It's risky yet dangerous.
Let's step out of the comfort zone for once, Ruth thought to herself.
"Yeah, I'll go with you. We just have to be careful." She grins.
Mike beams. "Great. How about we meet each other at the entrance at eleven?"
Ruth smiles and goes to answer when she and Mike hear a horn honking. There is even a blare of music. Mike became nervous when he realized who was coming.
"Shit, Bowers. We need to go." Mike replies, then jumps from the table over to his bike.
"It's okay, Mike. That's actually my ride."
"Your ride?" Mike questions, confused.
"Reggie, well, Belch, was kind enough to drive me here. He saw me limping and offered to drive me where I needed to go. Reg told me he would be back around in half an hour." Ruth explained.
Mike stares at her for a moment, hurt evident in his gaze. "So, the rumor is true then?"
Ruth's brows knit. "What rumor?"
"That you are a member of Henry Bowers' gang. I'm guessing that's true, huh?"
"Oh, no. I'm not a part of the gang. They just act like I am."
"What does that supposed to mean?"
"I'll put it this way. Even though I'm supposed to stay away from others, they look out for me like brothers when they shouldn't. Henry just takes it a little further than he needs and has this strange infatuation towards me. Victor and Reggie just follow."
"But they're friends of yours, right?"
"Hardly. The only one I'm sort of chummy with is Reggie."
"Oh," Mike mumbles and avoided eye contact.
The car horn sounds again, distracting Ruth. "One second!" She hollers.
"If that's the case, then I really should get going. I'll see you around, Ruth." Mike guessed, agitated yet disappointed.
"We'll still talk, right?" Ruth questions and stood from her spot.
"Yeah, I guess. See ya."
Mike then forced himself forwards, pedaling away. He doesn't even look back.
Ruth watched him leave, suddenly feeling unsure about speaking with Mike now. While he has the best intentions, her gut tells her not to get too close to him. She doesn't know if it's just nerves or her intuition talking. With her cynicism, Ruth can read people like a fortune teller and carefully pick out who can be trusted. Ruth believes she can with Mike. Besides, if there is anyone that could help her out of this, it's him.
With a heavy sigh, Ruth turns to meet Henry and Company.
When she turned the corner, Ruth is surprised to see only Belch in the car. He waves at her enthusiastically with a grin and points to the passenger seat. Oddly enough, Ruth smiles. She may want to talk with Mike, but Ruth does have other options. Unlike Henry and Victor, Belch looks out for her like a true brother would. He's different when the other two are not around. So, Ruth can talk with him and hope to god he doesn't get her in trouble.
Ruth kept her word. She returned to Neibolt later that afternoon.
After talking with Mike, Ruth got a chance to speak with Belch. The conversation she had with him was undoubtedly eye-opening. Belch admitted he saw the scars but chose to keep it a secret from Henry and Victor. While he may be a bad boy, Belch does show some humanity. Belch also confessed he didn't like the thought of Henry cutting Ben Hanscom. Since Belch knows now, Ruth trusted him enough to keep everything a secret. He's a decent person anyway. Belch is just hanging out with the wrong crowd.
Ruth limped silently towards Neibolt, thinking. She has a lot going through her mind. Ruth is wondering what her next move will be. She can't see Mike again until the day after tomorrow. Ruth can at least call and let him know how things are going but can't say anything further. Ruth could go to the library and look up information for a social worker. That's risky, though. The thought of going to the station came to mind. Except, Ruth knows Officer Bowers is one of Jordan's eyes. If he saw her there, it's in a casket six feet under. So, that's out of the question.
Argh, what the hell can I do now, damnit? I need a distraction, a good laugh, maybe, Ruth thought.
When Ruth approached the house, she can feel something slightly off. Ruth even has the cold prickle going up and down her back.
Pennywise is nearby. He's trying to scare her again.
Ruth rolls her eyes with a curve of her lips. It's become routine for her to get a daily scare. Ruth adjusted quite well and quickly to Pennywise's antics since she learned he's a shapeshifter. He tried as a mummy the other night. Except, his version was not the campy, cheesy-looking ones from the old black and white movies. Pennywise was a dry rotted, decaying corpse. Yes, it freaked her out at first, but Ruth saw through him. His version of a werewolf was terrifying, as well. The whimpering whine after she knocked him one on the head made Ruth giggle. Pennywise may not have liked her laughing at him, but he provided a much-needed distraction.
"I wonder what you have in store for me today," Ruth thought out loud.
She smiles while lightly humming, then turns a corner. What Ruth wasn't expecting is a severely diseased man oozing and leaking fluids standing in her way. She makes a startling cry, stepping back. They watched her with a twitch of a smirk. Ruth shudders as she stood before them, realizing quickly that it's Pennywise.
"Holy sweet Jesus, just what in the hell are you?" Ruth gaped, giving him a once over.
He gurgled a laugh, choosing not to say anything. Pennywise moves around her to the front of the house, but he was motioning her to follow.
"Just who are you going to frighten with that bizarre form anyway?"
No answer. Pennywise still motions for Ruth to follow.
Ruth rolls her eyes, sighing. "Alright, whoever you're going to scare with that nastiness is sure to freak out."
She comes up from behind him, looking over his infected shoulder. Ruth wrinkles her nose at the smell.
"Damn, you could use a bath."
Leper Pennywise scowls and groans. He elbows Ruth then points down the road.
Ruth follows his crooked finger to see Eddie coming. She feels a flip of excitement in her stomach.
"Oh, goodie, Twitchy Eddie. Yeah, he will definitely be afraid of you. But do you know what would be even better? A snake."
Pennywise glances at her, where a diseased brow quirked upward.
"Trust me when I say this. Eddie will shriek. I pulled a prank on him in school once with a fake one. I can only imagine what he will be like if a real one is thrown at him."
Pennywise is silent, considering this. He opts for his idea, though. He moves while Ruth watched from the corner of the house.
"Oh, come on, Pen, please," Rush starts in a hushed whisper. "Shapeshift into a snake and let me fling you." She begs with an excited giggle.
Ruth watched from around the corner as Eddie neared, grinning wildly. She turned her attention to the leper that is Pennywise. He slowly stalked his prey as Eddie frantically picked up his pills that scattered on the ground. When Eddie caught sight of the leper, his features contorted into fear and disgust. He yells, crawls backward, then bolts. The leper following closely behind as Eddie screamed in her direction. He did, at one point, fell but was quick to return to his feet.
Thinking quickly, Ruth rushes around the house and hunkers low near the back porch. She covers her mouth from the sound of Eddie screaming for help as he came around. Ruth watched as he crossed the yard to the chain-linked fence, standing there and looking back.
She then felt the cold prickle turn into a searing heat. An unnatural grin crosses her features as Pennywise stood in front of her. The sight of his tall form intimidated Ruth, while the large bundle of red balloons floating above his bulbous head enthralled her. Ruth stares at them with an odd gleam in her eyes and a grin that matched his own. Their red color reflected on her skin like a camera filter. Ruth's ginger hair seemed redder, as well.
Wow, she gawked.
"Where are you going, Eds? If you lived here, you'd be home by now."
Scare him, Ruth urges.
"Come join the clown, Eds. You'll float down here."
Change, she continues to taunt.
"We all float down here. Yes, we do."
Pennywise contorts his laugh as Eddie screams.
Ruth watches as Eddie got on all fours to crawl underneath the fence. She waited patiently for her moment to add on to his scare. Ruth felt something slither up her hand. She glances down to find a snake coiling their tail around her wrist. Ruth then hears a voice in her head, instructing her when to take the shot. She hears balloons popping and fluttered around her.
NOW!
That is her cue. She stood quickly with the snake curving into an "S." Like the famous baseball player, Babe Ruth, Ruth pulled her arm far back and flung Snake Pennywise towards Eddie.
Pennywise inwardly grins, WEE!
He soars through the air, his aim in hindsight. Pennywise, hisses then collides into Eddie's chest. The next thing he heard was the boy shrieking loudly. It's loud and shrill enough that Pennywise's eyes crossed at the high pitch girly scream. He even inwardly cringes.
Yikes! Now THAT is a scream.
Eddie frantically pounds at his chest like King Kong to wipe the snake off, grimacing. Pennywise drops to the ground. The tip of his tail barely touching Eddie caused him to shriek again. Cackling in his head, Pennywise slithered to the tall grass. He can hear Ruth's muffled laughter. Pennywise will have her rolling once Eddie is calm. He has one more trick up his sleeve.
Eddie sat on the ground, wheezing and gasping for breath. He takes a big gulp and shudders.
"Holy sweet Jesus, I hate snakes."
He crawls towards his escape, his heart still racing. When Eddie thought everything was alright, something big came up from behind him. He glances back to see something that made him want to faint. There was not one but two giant slithering snakes staring him down and hissed. Eddie makes that same shrilling scream then turns on his bum to run. The boy forgot there was a fence in his path and plows into the chain like a cartoon character. Of course, the tiny boy grunts from the collision and falls backward with an oof. His face felt like a waffle press smashed into him and left a permanent mark. He could have sworn someone from behind him guffaws loudly.
Eddie doesn't give a damn if they did! He even heard a female start laughing loudly. Who was it coming from? Eddie didn't care either.
He drops to his knees and crawls with a whining whimper. Once on the other side, Eddie runs while crying like the little girl he became.
"Mommy!" Eddie cries.
Once the boy disappeared around the hedge screaming, Ruth's voice sounds from the tall grass.
"Oh my god!" Ruth laughs.
Pennywise, who reverted to his clown form, is rolling. The creature can't laugh! Yet somehow, he is. His laugh is unusual. It's the same one when Pennywise met Georgie. Except, he doesn't stop and growls lowly. Pennywise continues to laugh, which is obnoxious but oddly enough masculine. The sound of Eddie's girly shrill took him by surprise. The boy turning into the giant ape King Kong to wipe away his earlier slithery form was a sight to be had. Ramming into the chain-link fence just added to the boy's humiliation.
"He screams like a girl!" Pennywise laughed hysterically, rolling on the ground and pointing at Eddie's retreating form still.
"That was even better than I thought," Ruth wheezed, holding her sides.
"You were right! That was flipping hilarious!"
She cackles some more. "I told you it would get Twitchy to shriek."
They laughed for a couple of minutes, letting the high go down on its own. Ruth lays on her stomach and props her head with her hands clasped together, watching Pennywise. There is something about the evil clown that Ruth is fascinated by him. She couldn't tell if it is his abilities or the fact Ruth admires his craft. Ruth eyes his wild orange hair and the silver suit in wonder.
Pennywise must have felt her eyes on him. He glances over his shoulder at her, catching Ruth's grin. A faint brow rose curiously. He wanted to question, but Ruth answered him before he could.
"I'm curious now. Who else did you scare?" Ruth smiles softly.
He pursed his lips and brows scrunched. "Why?"
Her smile widens, beaming. "I'm fascinated by you."
"Why?"
"You're not like any other. You're unique and intriguing. So, please tell me, who else did you scare?"
Pennywise thought about it, but he decided not to go into details about any of them yet.
"No," he answers, then stood from the ground.
He marches forward to the broken porch.
"Oh, come on! Please!"
"Nope."
Ruth pouts, crossing her arms while she watched his retreating form.
"Why not? It's not like we have anything better to do."
He refuses to answer.
A determined grin crosses her lips. "How about a trade then? I'll give you one of the three promised boxes of Crackerjacks in exchange for a story."
She watched him jar to a stop but doesn't see the toothy grin surface on his ancient crimson lips.
He is quick to approach and glares down at her with a purse of his lips.
"One of the three?"
"Yes, one," Ruth paused with a screw of her lips. "Unless you don't want the one box or the other two."
His lips puckered more, and brows knitted close.
"Alright, fine. Just one," he replies with a pointed finger.
Ruth breams and reached into her bag to hold out the red and white box.
Pennywise grins upon seeing his delightful sugar snack and made a grab for it when Ruth pulled back.
"No, uh ah," she starts with a mischievous grin. "You'll get your sugar popcorn after you tell me one of your scares."
His eyes narrow with a pout now.
"Are you kidding me?"
"Nope, and you have to give me all the juicy details, too. No shortcuts or altering the outcome. I would actually like to use your scares as a series of drawings anyway. I know how much you like my artwork, even though it is not the best around."
Pennywise groans then dropped to the ground with a hand propping his head on his knee.
"Blast! Alright, fine. I'll tell you one and only one."
"Thank you, Pen," Ruth beamed and sat down with him just feet away.
"Yeah, yeah, but you must promise me something."
"Promise you what?"
He surveyed Ruth, looking her in the eye with a frown, then sighs.
"Will you stop bringing yourself down?"
Ruth stared at him perplexed yet felt a slight pang of guilt.
"You have a tremendous gift, kid. Anyone who would be able to draw like you would be lucky to have the talent you possess. So, stop saying you're not good when you really are."
She continued to stare, quite surprised that the shapeshifter complimented her for once. It felt nice and warmed her heart. Yet, him calling her 'kid' made Ruth suspicious if he is the stranger she met earlier. She won't say anything about the stalker just yet, though. Ruth wants to enjoy this time with Pennywise. Ruth smiles, then opened the box of crackerjacks and handed it to Pennywise.
He stared for a moment with a brow cocked.
"I thought you said after?"
"Consider the first box a freebie. I'll give you a second box if you do happen to tell me another."
"Bribing me now, are you?"
"Nope, not all," Ruth grins toothily as he snatched the box and rummaged through for the hidden prize.
"Could have fooled me, you irritating child."
Ruth pouts and stuck her tongue at him. He mirrors then handed her the prize, which is another plastic figurine, a monkey this time.
"Thank you, and thank you for the laugh earlier. I really needed that after the day I had. I also promise not to cut myself down anymore. I guess I need to work on my self-esteem. Now, tell me something good and scary."
Pennywise groans with a sigh.
Why am I even bothering with this one? I'm just going to eat her anyway, at some point. Pennywise thought to himself.
Strangely, the afternoon went better than both Ruth and Pennywise initially thought. Hanging out in the backyard and somewhat willingly telling Ruth stories of his scares was quite fun. She enjoyed hearing them, especially when Pennywise gave her the juicy details as he promised. He even went the extra mile and took on the form of said creature or whatever transformation he took for added effect and reenacted the encounter. Pennywise told Ruth three scares instead of his promised one, which earned him the other two boxes of Crackerjacks.
Because of him, Ruth is starting to feel a little less alone now with Pennywise around.
Little did Ruth or Pennywise know, their slowly budding relationship will shift drastically in the days to come.