A/N: Hello, everyone! I hope you all are having a great so far. First and foremost, I want to thank everyone for all the favorites and follows. It's nice knowing people like this story. Lastly, a lot happens in the second part, even a character acting OOC. You'll know which one once it comes to it. It's a different side to them.
I'm currently working out a few small scenes for Ch. 22 and polishing it up. Hopefully, I will have it posted by Friday or the weekend. I still need to finish my Christmas chapter, which should be up before Christmas, if not the day after.
06/08/20 Update: I went back and fixed some grammatical errors.
Anyway, enjoy the read, and reviews are always appreciated.
By late morning the next day, word got out that Irene is missing. Of course, Stanley is distraught over losing his source of happiness. Ruth, however, grinned at the satisfaction of his torment. She knew Pennywise was behind the girl's disappearance and why he went after them. Pennywise did say at one point that he will do anything to ensure her happiness. If it meant eliminating the source of her anguish, he would do just that. Ruth hoped he scared her real good, along with Stan. They both deserved it anyway. She would have to ask him what he had done to scare them later. Ruth also hoped that Pennywise enjoyed his meal.
Ruth just wished she was able to thank Pennywise for what he did. It showed he still cares despite their fight. The bouquet of yellow roses and white tulips he left on the window sill definitely put a bright smile on her face. Ruth ended up bringing the bundle of flowers to her bedside. She wants to see them before falling asleep at night and first thing in the morning.
She makes a quick glance at the bouquet, smiling brightly and feeling a warmth envelope her heart. Pennywise is not around for some reason. He might be out on another hunt for a meal. Ruth would have to help at some point in finding an easy target for him to eat.
I wonder where he is, Ruth thought.
"Yo, Ruth! Hurry it up, we're going to be late!" Belch yells from downstairs.
"I'm coming, jeez! Do remember I have to put a wig and makeup on!"
"You're already pretty! Why do you need that face paint anyway?"
"Aw, thank you, Reggie. Besides, I need to cover these darkening freckles of mine as people will recognize me. To make things easier and faster, I could use a hand."
"Oh, come on! We have what, ten minutes?"
"We'll be out of here in three if you help me in getting my outfit. And excuse me for oversleeping! I haven't had a decent night's sleep since mine and Robert's fight the other day."
Ruth then heard him thundering up the steps, his voice booming in the house.
"Honestly, I don't blame him for getting upset with you, Ruth. He is protecting you and feels a sense of responsibility for your well-being, including ourselves. Robert had every right to know the truth."
She lightly frowns, pausing in fixing her hair.
"I know. I was just," Ruth's thought trails off once Belch came into the room.
"You were selfish," Belch finished, eyeing her glumly.
"Yeah, that," Ruth mumbles.
He sighs heavily, regarding Ruth with a frown.
"Look, you two may have had this big blow-up of a fight, but apparently Robert still cares if he went out of his way to get you those flowers over there."
Ruth's features brightened when he mentioned them. She turns her attention on the flowers again, smiling brightly and fondly.
"They are beautiful. I just wish I knew where Robert is so I can thank him properly."
Belch studied Ruth a moment longer, noting the excited gleam in her eyes. If he remembers correctly, on the few occasions Robert was in the room with them, the slightly older adult, including Ruth, had the look. The expression of "I want to be with you forever." Belch can see something is going on between Ruth and Robert. Although it appears they are either denying their affections or are oblivious. The fight may have been centered around Ruth being pregnant, but there is more to it than that.
Belch remembers the conversation he and Ruth had that day. Ruth called him from a payphone and was a hysterical mess. He actually rushed over to where she was with Henry and Victor in tow. When Ruth finally calmed down, she told them about what happened. They were shocked, of course, but extremely surprised with her being pregnant. They were also quite upset with Ruth for not telling them but dared not to stress her further. When she spoke of Robert pinning her, Ruth confided in him that she felt a spark towards her protector slash friend. Belch caught the anticipated tone she had, even the smirk.
This observation made a light bulb go off in his head. He knows what needs to happen for things to move along.
He smirks mischievously. "Ooh, somebody has a crush on Robert," Belch sing-songs.
Ruth blushes an intense red. "What? No, I don't," she stutters.
"Yeah, you do."
"No, really!"
"Boss Lady has a crush on Robert."
She groans while sinking into the chair and covering her face.
"You want to kiss him," he continues.
"Sh-shut up," she sputters while growing pink in the cheeks and fumbling around.
"Ruth and Robert sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S_."
Having enough of his childish brother-like antics, Ruth hurls her compact mirror at him. She watches it collide into his forehead with a clang, which caused him to cry out and stumble.
"AH! OW! What the fuck?"
Ruth opened her mouth to banter when a new voice sounds in her ears, along with footsteps. She can feel that intense heat from the other day and yesterday resonates deep within her core.
Oh, holy shit and Shinola!
"Um, what is going on in there?" It was Robert.
She squeaks then rushed to the door. Ruth snaps it shut before Robert could peer in, which was a dumb move on her part. Ruth didn't realize when she closed the door, he was right there to slam in his face. She collapsed to the floor with her back pressed against the wall, shuddering a sigh.
Oh, holy sweet mother of pearl! Even hearing his voice is driving me wild! What the hell?
"N-nothing," Ruth stutters. "Just, argh, go away! I'm not decent!" She squeaks, and blush deepening.
Belch, who stood watching, widened his eyes at her and growled. "Ruth."
Realizing her mistake, Ruth immediately stood from which she sat and yanked the door open. She hoped he stood there still, but luck is not on her side today. In fact, Robert is retreating to the stairwell with feet pounding with purpose.
"Robert, wait!" Ruth rushed out of the room, intending to follow despite wearing the worn and flimsy robe.
"Save it," he bit.
"Robby, please wait."
"Why? Did you not want me to go away?"
"I didn't mean it in that fashion, Robert."
"Then how was I supposed to perceive it, you irritating child?"
Ruth opened her mouth to explain, only to stumble and trips on one of the steps. She makes a startling squeak then falls forward. Ruth would have tumbled down the stairs if Robert hadn't turned so quickly and caught her. He grunted from impact and nearly toppled backward with Ruth in tow. Instead, he swiftly grabbed at the railing to keep his balance, while continuing to hold onto Ruth tightly. They stopped with a slight jolt where both Ruth and Robert remained stationary for a short moment.
Robert eventually glances down at Ruth to make sure she was alright. Ruth is okay, however, with her pressing against him, Ruth's poor excuse of a rope popped open. He can see her heaving chest, including the crest of her white lace t-shirt bra. Robert grew hot in the cheeks and unknowingly whines. The feeling from the other day returned with a vengeance. Ruth's maturity is starting to show a little too early for his liking and is causing his human form tremendous distress.
Throw her off! Throw her off! He screamed to himself, but Robert knew he couldn't do that to Ruth.
Robert might be facing distress, but so is Ruth. She clung onto his chest, feeling Robert's taut muscles, which unintentionally flexed from her touch. A small muffled moan vibrates in her throat, suddenly feeling a little bothered by the closeness. She wanted to say something but didn't know what could be said to draw them out of this strange predicament.
Oh, good Lord, he is freaking toned, Ruth comments to herself.
From around the corner, Belch discreetly snapped a photo of the two with a grin plastered on his chubby face. He is quick to return to the bedroom without getting caught.
The polaroid snapping drew Robert out of his stupor. He clears his throat, then gently shoves Ruth away.
"Um uh, you-you need to be careful, Klutz," Robert replies tightly, rushing away with a bright blush adorning his cheeks.
Slightly offended and still very much bothered, Ruth stumps back up the stairs with a groan.
"Thank you for catching me, by the way, you jerk!"
Once Ruth returned the bedroom, she immediately went to the dressing table and collapses onto the stool.
"Wow, that was hard to watch, yet fun at the same time," Belch voiced after an awkward and unbearable silence. "I even got a picture."
"Great," she sarcastically groans. "Fucking Christ, I can't believe I am actually attracted to him. All Robert did was come by to see what was going on and see if I liked his flowers."
"Or to see if you wanted to go the town meeting with him," Belch suggests.
Ruth can only groan then covered face. "God, I'm such a fucking idiot."
Belch wasn't going to comment. Instead, he turned to her closet and started pulling out an outfit for Ruth. He grabs a cream-colored cashmere sweater, a mustard yellow cardigan, and her chocolate brown jacket. Belch is then quick to place them near her head.
"Come on, Ruth, get dressed. If you're lucky enough, you just might catch him in time for all of us to drive there. If not, you'll see Robert there and talk."
She sighs again then turns her teary gaze on Belch's choice. Ruth actually smirks when the colors reminded her of the flowers. She immediately thought about Robert and the pain in his voice moments ago. With a determined glint, Ruth rushes in dressing rather Belch was there or not. He actually makes a sound when Belch caught a glimpse of Ruth's round butt from her cheeky white laced panties after she removed her robe.
"Gah, jeez, Ruth, show some decency and reveal your womanly assets to your new crush."
Ruth reaches over and smacks his head.
"Ow!"
"Shut up, Reggie. A lady doesn't have to be modest. Now, will you help me in locating my boots."
"Yeah, they're already in my hand," he replies while keeping his gaze elsewhere and not on Ruth.
After a moment of rustling and zipping her jeans on, Ruth snatches the boots from his hands.
"Thanks."
Of course, being in a rush, Ruth opts to put them on while standing. She eventually tumbles sideways and crashes into her dresser. When she did, several things were knocked off the top and landed on the floor. Ruth then sees the letter from her father, along with a jewelry box. She has yet to read it or looked to see what lays in the small black velvet box.
Ruth doesn't know why she's stalling. She wants to know what her father was like and what he has to say for a while now. There have been a few occasions where Ruth would pick up the envelope and stare at it blankly. She even threw it in the trash multiple times but would pull it out. Ruth is so conflicted about it, yet is curious about what lies within the velvet box. She can only assume it's a piece of jewelry. It could be a ring or maybe a pendant or even a precious heirloom. The only way Ruth would know is if she opened the items.
Why am I stalling? She questions herself.
"Ruth," Belch lightly calls to her.
With a slow blink, Ruth glances at him and frowns. She gulps tightly then heads to the door, deciding not to say anything.
Belch can only watch her exit the room, noticing the dullness in her gaze. He bit at his bottom lip then stooped low to pick up the envelope and box. The object is kind of heavy, but not very from what he can tell and hear something moving around in there. Apparently, the tumble caused the thing to come loose. Being mindful yet curious, Belch opened the box to adjust the object. When he did, his eyes widened, and mouth gaped. He is quick to snap it close then returned the box to the shelf, along with the envelope.
"Ooh, Boss Lady is going to love it," he whispers to himself then rushes after Ruth.
There were already murmurs and conversations. The park of which held the mandatory town gathering is nothing but a sea of faces. Their breaths zoomed past their ears from a bitterly cold wind coming from the north. The crowd shivered and bounced on their feet, trying to stay warm.
The ground crunched from underneath their boots as Ruth, along with Henry, Belch, and Victor, rushed over. They approached from the back and forced their way through, not even caring if people glared at them. For Ruth, she tries to ignore the expressions. They're the same looks Ruth had grown accustomed to over the years, malice and resentment. She even remembers the feeling of hopelessness and lack of existence. Ruth can feel the scars on her heart reopening from memories rushing at her like a monsoon. The wounds on her flesh itch from the memories of Jordan and her swine of an uncle, Jonathan, abusing her body, mind, and spirit.
The feeling is so overwhelming, Ruth just stops in her tracks. She glares down at the frozen and dead grass, breathing shallowly. Despite hiding from the public, Ruth still felt exposed and vulnerable to the cynical world. She can feel the eyes of strangers on her and the curious, yet dirty looks because she is with Henry and his two only friends.
I shouldn't be here, Ruth thought to herself while still trying to hide behind a mask.
"Hey," a voice called to her.
Ruth hesitates to gaze at who spoke as she lost her sense of awareness. When she finally chalked up the courage to stare upon her visitor, Ruth is relieved to see Victor. Her bottom lip quivered, and tears started to brim her eyes.
"You alright?"
She slowly shakes her head, struggling to not look him in the eyes.
"No, I'm not," her voice soft and low.
Victor regards her sadly with a press of his lips, contemplating on what to say. He glances away from her to the guys. They're looking at the two in confusion and concern.
Henry mouthed, "Is she alright?"
Victor immediately shook his head, then turned back to Ruth.
"Do you want to leave? We can, if you need to, you know."
Ruth doesn't regard him just stared into the crowd, which seemed to watch her like a committee of vultures ready for a wake. She doesn't like it either. The imaginary stares only made her grow anxious and infuriated. Ruth trembled, but it wasn't from the cold. She can even feel a deep hatred bubble in her stomach.
She gulps before opening her mouth to give instruction, but nothing could come out. The sound of a microphone buzzed on and whined, causing her, along with a dozen others, to flinch. Mayor King's voice soon filled the openness and reached the attentive ears.
From afar, he taps at the microphone.
"Are we good? Yep, we're good. Alright, thank you all for coming out on this blistering cold November morning. I'll only take ten minutes of your time, if not less. After that, you are free to head back to your warm and cozy homes. You're probably wondering why I requested a mandatory town meeting and here of all places. We have an update on the whereabouts of Rutherford Grayson's daughter, Ruth."
The crowd bursts into light murmurs, while Ruth cringed and scowls. Someone had the gall to speak out.
"Couldn't you have just put it the paper?"
Mayor King rolled his deep blue eyes with a groan and runs a hand through his dark hair.
"While putting the announcement in the newspaper is ideal to most, I find it impersonal. I felt it was necessary to make a public statement on the matter. For three months, we have searched for Miss Greyson here in Derry, the neighboring cities, and throughout the state of Maine only to come up empty. Officer Bowers and the whole police department proposed in locating Ruth in other states. I, however, decided against the motion."
He pauses and grips the podium. With a shuddering heavy sigh into the microphone, Mayor King resumes.
"I'm officially calling off the search."
Ruth's eyes widened, stiffening while holding back an excited grin. The crowd bursts into gasps and more murmurs. From beside her, someone made a remark which made Ruth blood boil.
"Good. Who would want to have that rich bitch back here anyway?"
She slowly glances to her left, discovering Beverly standing next to her. Ruth glares at Beverly while holding back her scowl. She would have ignored her, except a voice in her head demanded retaliation.
"I take it from that tone of yours, miss, you never liked this girl, huh?" Ruth implies suddenly in a different tone and in a realistic Swedish accent.
Beverly snaps her gaze on the disguised Ruth, startled.
"Oh, um yeah, I never did."
"Varför?"
Beverly pauses for a moment to comprehend what she said. When Beverly finally did, there was a tone Ruth picked up that only made her blood boil hotter. Beverly spoke about her in complete disgust. She always thought Beverly put up an act in being unpleasant with her, but apparently, that is not the case.
"Oh, why? Um, Ruth, is just a snooty, condescending pretty little Madonna. Everybody hated her because she was born from a whore and an unknown father, at the time. She was bullied a lot because of it and the fact Ruth is much smarter than anybody else."
Ruth stared at Beverly while holding back her tongue.
"So, this Ruth girl was a Bastard Kid, and you despised her because of this fact?"
"Well," Beverly starts only to be interrupted when someone hushed them.
Ruth wanted to press Beverly further but decided to wait. She will get her chance very soon.
Mayor King holds a hand upwards, wanting to gain control.
"I understand the need to talk amongst yourselves, but there is more you must know. I'm calling off the search not because we can't find Miss Greyson. Office Bowers and I have come to an understanding that Ruth just doesn't want to be found."
"I could have told you that, Captain Obvious," Beverly remarks.
Ruth bit her tongue. She glared calculatedly at the ginger, contemplating.
"If Ruth doesn't want to be located, then we should respect her wish. Besides, it's better to go alone than be in the company of the wicked. We, as citizens of this beautiful city, are that in her eyes. We've spent years mistreating Ruth, and I don't blame her for leaving. I sincerely hope Miss Greyson is somewhere safe and with someone who appreciates her. Granted, I would much rather have Ruth be here so she can see how much the city regrets treating her the way we did. I'm most certain Rutherford would scorn us of our heinous actions upon his daughter. In fact, I would like to direct the subject elsewhere."
He makes a quick glance to his right, getting an okay from his secretary.
"Not only did I want to make a public announcement of Miss Greyson but to unveil a new addition to the City of Derry."
Mayor King motions to two covered items on the stage: one is a large mass of red with some defined shape, while the second is tall and rectangular.
"Miss Wilkins, if you would please reveal the item to your left."
Miss Wilkins, a rather attractive young woman with soft black sleek hair and long legs, removes the cover to the rectangular object. She reveals an enlarged aged photo of Rutherford sitting in a chair and beaming brightly while holding baby Ruth in his arms.
Ruth stares at the photo as her eyes brimmed with tears. From this distance, Ruth definitely took after her father from the fiery strawberry blonde curly hair, freckles, and nose. Ruth can tell from the picture that he's tall despite him sitting in a chair. She is bound to grow into a healthy height. The only difference is the freckles since they are covering his entire face and not just the bridge of his nose. She unknowingly reached to brush at the hidden markings, wondering why they're different.
Penny is right. I do look like my father, Ruth thought to herself.
She didn't realize since her environment grew still, but there were light gasps and muffled awes. Beverly scuffs and crosses her arms at Ruth's side.
"Ooh, a picture of the loving father and daughter," Beverly remarks snidely.
"This photo was on Rutherford's person at the time of his murder. It's sad to see such a good person who desired life with his daughter to be taken from this world. Despite Ruth's disappearance, I enlisted a sculptor from Bangor to create a memorial piece of Rutherford to put in place of his headstone as a gift and peace offering for her. Miss Wilkins, please reveal the sculpture."
She smiles broadly, then yanks the second cover with one hand. Beneath it is a bronze replica of the scene in the photo of Rutherford sitting with baby Ruth in his arms. There is even a plaque centered at the bottom.
In Honor of Rutherford Greyson the Third
That's all Ruth could read from this distance. She wanted to get closer but stopped when a certain someone continued to display disgust toward the Grayson name.
"Oh yeah, like we need something special for them. Those two are only getting recognition because Ruth's dear ole daddy is famous. Big fucking whoop."
Ruth scowls, shallowly breathing while glaring at the jealous teenager. A shadow crossed Ruth's features when a thought occurred to her.
"If you don't want to hear any more about this girl, you despise, would you oppose showing me around town, ja?"
Beverly turns to the disguised Ruth, startled at the suggestion.
"Huh?"
"My brother, Roman, and I moved here from Stockholm and are clueless about where everything is here. He is currently out house searching while I came here to find out what was going on. Would you mind showing me around?"
Beverly stared dumbfounded.
"Oh, um yeah. Uh, I mean, no, I don't mind at all. Yes, I can show you around town."
"Tack så mycket," Ruth replies excitedly in her fluent Svenska and different tone.
Beverly stares with uncertainty and searching Ruth's gaze.
"Oh, pardon me. I speak Svenska, well Swedish, when I get excited or upset. Thank you very much for showing me around, Miss."
"Beverly. My name is Beverly, and you're welcome. What's your name?"
Ruth toothily smiles, "The name is Vivian Johanna Gray. You can call me Jojo if you like."
Beverly eyed Jojo strangely, who smiled oddly at her. She couldn't tell if the grin should creep her out or feel suspicious. Beverly would need to be careful as a signal went off in her like a wailing siren.
"Hi, Jojo," Beverly managed to say. "Come on, let's get out of here," she adds, then started through the crowd to leave with her new friend.
Ruth watched her for a moment, then followed. The wheels in her head begun to turn while a devious smirk emerged.
I'm going to have a lot of fun with this one, Ruth, darkly thought to herself. She stuffs her hands in the pockets of her jacket, then followed Beverly.
No one saw the two go off, not even Pennywise in his human form, who searched amongst the crowd for her. He asked numerous people, including the guys, if they saw her. No one did. So, when Robert couldn't find Ruth, he assumed she ran off. He knows her father is a touchy subject since Ruth never knew him. The statue of him with her as a baby could have struck a nerve and made Ruth cry. All Robert wanted to do was make sure Ruth was okay. Now, he has grown worried.
Please, be safe, Ruth.
The two girls strolled throughout the city, talking and laughing. Ruth is enjoying this particular time with Beverly, as it helped her to understand something she always wanted to know about. Beverly spoke most of the time, which mostly consisted of her bad-mouthing Ruth. Marsh revealed a lot of things she had done to Ruth without any remorse. Beverly was the one who spread the rumor of Ruth being Henry Bower's girlfriend, not Betty Ripsom. However, Betty had the idea, too, but Beverly beat her to the punch.
Beverly glances at Jojo, grinning. "You know, you're pretty cool. I'm glad you and your brother moved here. Other than the guys I hang out with, I really need a girl for a friend."
"You're not so bad yourself. I still have a few questions about your hatred towards this Ruth girl, though."
Beverly stares for a second, considering. "Like what?"
"Other than her being a Bastard Kid, what did she ever do to you? Why do you hate her so much?"
The ginger grimaces and shrunk at the shoulders. "Um, she didn't do anything to me."
Ruth stops in her tracks and stares at Beverly. "Meaning what exactly?"
Beverly glared at Jojo, starting to grow nervous. "Why do you want to know?"
"I'm someone who can't stomach bullies and usually give them a taste of their own medicine. However, I want to know your reason for despising the girl. Now, what did you mean she didn't do anything to you?"
"All I ever really did was try being kind to her, and I get rewarded with a slap by my dad. We were all told to stay away from her, and I disobeyed." Beverly snapped.
Ruth glares with a purse of her lips before speaking.
"Your father is a rövhål for striking you, Beverly, but you shouldn't blame Ruth for what that sorry excuse of a man did to you. Is that the only reason or are there more?"
Beverly steps back from her, starting to feel more anxious than before. She can tell Something is not right here. Beverly couldn't figure out if it's the conversation or Jojo.
She gulps, readying herself for more backlash. "No, it's not. That was before I got on the bandwagon. I suggested to a girl who bullies me to drench Ruth in wet garbage and a dozen of other pranks that hurt her."
Ruth's blood boiled but held back on her anger. "Well, that's exceedingly rotten of you. What else did you do, Beverly?"
She stood further away from Jojo and leaned against the bridge railing that went over the canal.
"I did a lot of things that I don't regret. I hate Ruth because she played with Stanley's heart. He had a crush on her, and when Stanny admitted he liked her, Ruth told him she did, too. Except, they couldn't be together while she was hiding. He gave up on her and went out with Ruth's enemy, Irene, who is missing now. I don't doubt she's behind Irene's disappearance, the little fucking bitch."
Ruth can only glare at Beverly, fuming inside.
"She's a heartbreaker, arrogant, and irritating," Beverly concluded.
"How is she irritating?"
"She likes to correct Eddie, scuffs at Richie's jokes, ignores Ben, could care less about Bill and led Mike on. Ruth thinks she's better than anybody else and makes ill attempts in making friends. Like she really needs any. I firmly believe once Ruth realized she was rich, that bitch hightailed it out of here without a second glance. If she were with someone as the mayor mentioned, they wouldn't stand to be with her no more than a minute."
Ruth sighs slowly, her eyes darkening and staring at the river below them while cracking her neck.
"She's nothing but a disease…"
Beverly doesn't get to finish her sentence when Jojo's hand clamps over her mouth. At first, Beverly thought Jojo wanted her to shut up, but that was far from her mind. Beverly felt her feet lift from the ground and lower back pressed against the railing. Frantic, she reaches for the rail. Except, Jojo snatches her wrist and shoves Beverly further down by her mouth. She screams from underneath Jojo's hand, clawing at her wrist with her free hand. Beverly stares helplessly up at her, discovering the girl with different colored hair, Ruth's hair, to be exact. Her eyes widened and breathed raggedly.
"Ruth!" Beverly muffled.
"You talk too much," Ruth's voice deepens with a growl.
"No, stop, please!" She continued to muffle.
Beverly's feet kick the air, struggling to gain footing when she knew it was no use. Ruth held her down to the point of staring at the gray sky, and Ruth's fiery hair cascading down her shoulders like fire. The thought of this as the last thing she saw before dying frightened Beverly to the core. She began to struggle, hoping it would make it harder for Ruth. No such luck. Ruth held firm onto her jaw and wrist, bruising them.
"Ruth, please! STOP!" Beverly whimpers behind her hand, clawing still.
Ruth suddenly pulls Beverly back and removes her hand. Beverly reacted quickly and punched Ruth in the mouth.
"You're a fucking lunatic!"
Ruth seethes with a growl and audibly cracks her neck again. Her arm tightens then shoves Beverly back over the railing but remained to hold her down. Beverly screams only for her cries to muffle from the roaring water below.
"Ruth, please," Beverly begs. "Pull me back!"
"Why should I let you live after all the bullshit you done?" Ruth bellows while holding Beverly down at the shirt collar.
Beverly remained to scream and thrash. She stares down at the water from the corner of her eye, whimpering.
"Ruth, please! Please stop!"
"You should really watch what you say to people about others, little girl. You never know who they might be."
Ruth can feel the cloth give, which is dangerously close to ripping.
"Please, Ruth! Pull me back!"
Ruth grins with glee, finding absolute pleasure in Beverly's desperate cries for help and sheer terror. She could let go, Ruth really could. She could let Beverly go and watch her plummet to the cold river below towards her impending doom. Or Ruth could play with her some more. Ruth teases at the ripping fabric, taunting the frightened girl in her hands.
What am I feeling here? Why does this feel so... invigorating?
"Somebody, please help me!"
Her grin only widens, shoving her further down to the point of letting her drop.
"No one will hear you, you stupid girl. So, go ahead and keep scrawling."
"Please, Ruth, please!" She cries. "You're scaring me! Please let me go!" Beverly cries and whimpers.
Ruth blinks then frowns, glaring at the struggling girl beneath her in confusion. Beverly clawed at her wrist and attempts to grip her leather jacket. She saw it then, something Ruth didn't like to see. Ruth envisioned herself when Jordan threatened to kill her. Something must have clicked in her brain when Ruth realized what she is doing. Ruth trembled and glances down at Beverly, who proceeded to scream and thrash. Beverly even wetted herself.
STOP! This isn't you! Snap out of it, a voice tells her.
With a tight gulp and suppressing a whine, Ruth called down to her. "B-Beverly," she squeaks.
Beverly looks up at Ruth, crying and whimpering. "Please."
Ruth's lips tremble and shakily sighs. "Y-you didn't see me. Do you understand?"
Her brows scrunch despite Beverly grimacing. "YES! I didn't see you. I swear! I swear!"
Ruth gulps again then quickly helped Beverly up and back on her feet. Beverly collapses onto the pavement, crying and wailing.
No one was around to witness this, which Ruth was glad. Otherwise, people would recognize her. Ruth then realized the wig is no longer on her head.
What the? How, when did I take it off?
"Shit," Ruth curses, then stoops low.
She scrambles in tying and stuffing her locks under the hairnet, then quickly replaces the wig back on her head. Ruth glances around first then down at Beverly, who is struggling to regain composure.
With a sad huff, Ruth stoops low to place a hand on her shoulder only for Beverly to recoil.
"B-Beverly, what," Ruth murmurs, her voice cracking.
"Leave me the hell alone, you fucking disease," Beverly seethes through clenched teeth while crying.
Ruth gulps, shuddering still from what transpired. She doesn't hesitate to leave Beverly's side, letting her cry. Ruth kept her emotions inside until a quarter of a mile away from the shaken Beverly Marsh. She bursts into a hyperventilating fit, screaming and crying.
What the hell did I just do?
When Ruth returned to the Neibolt House, Robert was already waiting for her in the foyer. He stood by the stairs with arms folded over and scowling. The door softly clicked close, alerting him Ruth is home. Robert snapped his gaze on her and opened his mouth to berate Ruth for leaving but stops. His features relaxed upon seeing tears streaming down her face. He then noticed her bloodied wrist and the purplish blotch at the corner of Ruth's mouth. His chest tightens and jaw squares from the thought of someone laying their hands on her. In his mind, whoever struck Ruth is going to pay dearly. He'll make sure of it, too. A good fright would do the person in and make an exceptional meal out of them as well.
However, they will have to wait. Right now, Robert is more concerned about Ruth.
"What happened to you?" He calmly asked.
She doesn't answer, just stared at the floor.
Robert cautiously crept close to stand inches from her. "Ruth?"
After a moment of silence from her, Ruth spoke lightly.
"I, I don't want to talk about it, right now," Ruth breathes lowly.
"Ruth," he whispers then reached out to cradle her cheek.
She lets him touch her but doesn't lean into his hand. Ruth just remained to stare at the floor.
"Ruth, what's wrong?"
"I-I don't know," she struggled to say with a whimper, tears brimming her eyes again.
"Ruth, you're shaking. Please, talk to me."
Ruth chokes back a sob then opens her mouth to attempt to say speak, but it came out as a whimper.
"Viv?"
She sighs heavily, then finally glances up to catch his distressed expression.
"I don't know what happened, I really don't. All I know is that I did something that I wasn't fully aware of and can't comprehend anything right now. I'm sorry, but I need to be alone a little more."
Robert stares at her, noticing the tinge of fear behind her lively and pure eyes.
"Ruth, please, talk to me. Why are you scared?"
"I can't right now!" Ruth suddenly snaps.
She harshly shoves him away to remove herself from his warming touch then started forward.
Robert is caught off guard from being pushed that he stumbled slightly, but anger started to overtake his bones. He felt a sudden urge to rip at her flesh and make her scream in fear. His attempts to soothe what happened the other day and her emotional state are wearing his patience. He could take this opportunity but refuses still to kill Ruth. Robert fought the urge then turned to Ruth's rushing footsteps.
"Damnit, Red! Talk to me!" he screams in her head.
"Goddamnit, I can't talk right now!" She snaps then glances over her shoulder at him.
Ruth visibly flinches and deflates from the anger overwhelming his gaze. She claps a hand over her mouth then turns away in shame. With a shaky sigh, Ruth removed her hand to speak.
"I'm so sorry, Robby. I shouldn't have snapped at you or pushed you away. It was wrong of me. I can't talk about it right now because I'm still confused."
Robert doesn't say anything, just watched her with a frown.
"Something happened to me today, and I don't understand how or why it transpired. I need to be alone a little while longer. So, please, please don't take offense for my insistence in not wanting to talk."
She glances over her shoulder at him and feigns an apologetic smile. Ruth then began to rush up the stairs to distant herself from him. Robert quickly bounded after her and snatched Ruth from behind. Startled, Ruth squeaked in protest and tried escaping. The last thing she expected is being whirled around and encased in his arms. Her breath catches in her throat from the feel of his rigid chest under her palms and eyes widened. She felt him lean into the embrace as if to shelter her from the world. Ruth then felt a strange sense of calm wash over her from the crown to the tips of her toes. Whatever it is, Ruth has never felt this safe with him before. Robert, well Pennywise, could have taken his anger out on her, but he never did. He spared her from more trauma and is giving her comfort the best he could, a hug. It caught her off guard briefly, but Ruth gladly returned the gesture. Her fingers gripped on Robert's chambray shirt tightly as a sob quaked within her chest and started crying again.
"Shh," Robert shushed lightly and held her tighter.
"It's going to be okay, Ruth. It's going to be okay."
"Promise?" She hiccuped.
"Promise, promise."
The next morning, Ruth woke with a throbbing headache. Her face is red and slightly damp from tears as she cried throughout the night. Beverly's insults are part of the cause, but it's also the image of her father appearing in her mind. She doesn't see his lively smile anymore, only the decayed snarl of which Pennywise used to distract Jonathan. Ruth repeatedly heard his voice when there was no one there. There was another of whom Ruth couldn't place.
Ruth is beginning to drift in a dark place where it's hard to escape. Her threatening Beverly without really knowing is the icing on the cake. At least, she and Pennywise are somewhat on better terms, but not completely. Robert ended up carrying Ruth up to the bedroom, so she could rest a little. He stayed with her to give Ruth some sort of comfort, which helped immensely. She didn't tell him anything yet about what had happened yesterday. Ruth is still confused about it all. They have yet to talk about what happened on the train the other day. They really should, though. It would put them in a better spot.
Ruth laid soundlessly on her mattress and staring at the bouquet beside her head. Despite the gloom of twilight, the vibrant yellow and white stood against the black. They are light within the darkness of the room and her heart that is shrouded with darkness. Ruth thought once her mother and uncle were gone, things would get better. No, they're getting worse. She dragged herself deeper because of all the mistakes she made, and half of them, Ruth, can't entirely control for some reason.
Ruth should have never waited so long to decide what she wanted. Otherwise, she would be happy with Stan right about now and hanging out with his group of friends. Ruth would eventually be friends with Richie and Eddie, even Ben and Bill. Beverly, on the other hand, would not after what she did to her.
Ruth still can't get over the fact she threatened Beverly, and without really knowing she did. She's beginning to think Ruth had stooped to the level of her mother because she, for some disturbing reason, took great pleasure in torturing Beverly. Just like Jordan, she was killing Ruth slowly. The thought made her tremble and curl in on herself but continued to look at the flowers.
She watched them stare at her, lightly urging Ruth that things will get better sooner than expected as Pennywise had said. How she wished it were true. With a sniffle, Ruth reaches and slowly eases a yellow rose from the purple vase. She lays the flower near her face so Ruth could sniff at the center. It calms her to a degree but not enough to stop thinking about him. Between the two layers of her trouble cake, there is a slither of icing of her underlining problem. Pennywise is not the source of her dilemmas, not even Beverly. All Ruth ever truly wanted is to be with someone to show her compassion. Not the kind Pennywise gives, but fatherly love. She so desperately needs direction and advice from someone who could teach her about life.
Ruth doesn't know how to completely mend her friendship with Pennywise or how to go about discussing her growing feelings for him. She doesn't even know how to apologize for keeping a secret from him. Heck, Ruth could use some advice on how to get past the horrible thing she did. It's eating at her, especially Beverly's nasty remarks. She hates what people think of her, which only makes Ruth feel insignificant. Maybe Ruth relies too much on what others think about her. She strives to be better than what they perceive her as but it always comes off the wrong way. Like Beverly said, she is arrogant, conceited really and irritating.
Ruth stares at the yellow rose, grimacing while fighting back the tears. Although she knew its no use. Ruth is all alone in this dark world of hers, and there's no one here to rescue her heart. Out of the stillness in her room, a small voice fills the air.
"Papa," Ruth whimpers.
She curls on her side and lightly cries. Ruth laid there for a moment when she thought of the letter. She glances over her shoulder at the dresser, seeing a corner of the envelope, along with the jewelry box. With a huff, Ruth decides to finally read her father's letter. It's one of the three he left for her anyway.
Ruth slowly stood to her feet and crossed the room. She is quick to snatch it but left behind the box. Ruth is not ready for what lies within it.
She returns to the mattress and just stares at the front of the envelope. Her name is written clearly in a soft loopy script. His handwriting reminds Ruth of her own. Are they that much alike?
With a slow, steady breath, Ruth lifts the flap and pulls out a single-page letter. Her brows knit close but really thought nothing of it. Upon opening the paper did, Ruth's breath caught in her throat, even her eyes brimmed with tears.
My Dear Little Star,
It's only a short time before I get to finally meet you.
This journey has been trying for me since the beginning. Your mother, whom I wish I had never met, will soon give birth to you upon my request. Aborting a child who is a god-given gift shouldn't be taking away from this world because someone doesn't want you. I want you so dearly, my sweet little star.
I sincerely hope you find this letter during a time when you desperately need guidance. I wish I didn't have to give you the advice you seek through this letter, though.
Ruth stopped for a second, a pang in her stomach growing from the heaviness in his writing. Did he know something was wrong?
I have this horrible inkling that Jordan is up to no good and is planning on tearing us apart in some fashion. How do I know? I just do. I guess my instincts are telling me to start taking action before things are out of my hands. There's only so much a father can do to protect their newborn.
If something ever were to happen to me, I'm entrusting an old friend from long ago to keep watch over you. That is if he is even still around when you are born or later in life. He was about the only person that taught me the hard way that life is too damn short and not take things for granted. I hope he finds you the way he did me.
Ruth pauses again, wondering who this old friend of her father might be.
I want you to know that life will be full of obstacles, Vivi. It's a cruel world anyway. So please don't let your misgivings tear you down or mold your perception. As I said before, life is too damn short anyway. Take hold of your world like a bull rider and hang on tight. If you get knocked down on your ass, pardon my French, not haha, get up and carry on like a champion. That's what my father always told me.
Ruth actually chuckled, smiling.
Also, don't let what the others think to bother you, sweetie. You can't please everyone. Let them hate for who you really are. You certainly can't have them love you for what you are not. If you do something wrong that you shouldn't have done, it's okay to snap. Everyone has them, and we have to accept that aspect of ourselves. Be your own person, stay true to yourself, and don't let others direct your compass either. You're unique, extraordinary.
If you, by chance, meet that one special someone who can accept you for who you are and can guide you through those hurdles, keep them close. There is nothing worse than going alone in a dark and miserable world. It doesn't matter who it is or what they've done in the past to hurt you. They deserve a second chance and to have the most beautiful star of the night sky in their life. I know I do.
I'm looking forward to meeting the bright star of my world.
I love you so very much, Vivian, with all my heart.
Papa
Ruth stares at the letter, her vision slightly blurred with tears and grimacing. She doesn't hold back the soft sob that leaves her lips or the whimper. Her back curves as Ruth sunk in on herself and lightly cried. Her father's undying love for Ruth is overwhelming. All he ever wanted is his little star and give her the life she deserves.
Ruth is glad she held off in reading the letter as it did come in handy. His advice is what Ruth really needed, and it was right in front of her this whole time. Ruth just wished she had read the letter a long time ago. Maybe then she wouldn't feel like such an idiot right now. Everything that has led up to this point was for a reason, a lesson that needed to be taught.
She will stop living up to other people's expectations and not worry about what they think. What happened yesterday with Beverly is a damn good example. Ruth doesn't plan on apologizing to her now that she somewhat understands what caused her to do what she did. Maybe Ruth just snapped. Except, there was the voice telling Ruth that wasn't her. Why, though? Ruth remembers Beverly's fright invigorated her senses, even enjoyed tormenting her. She quickly shook her head to stop thinking about it. It's water under the bridge. Ruth must move on from the event.
Ruth defiantly needs to stop hiding secrets from Pennywise. Their fight from the other day is a good example. They both said things they didn't mean. Referring to Pennywise as an emotionless monster is far from the truth. He does have emotion. It's the actions of others that make them monsters. Granted, Pennywise is a shape-shifting creature, so it's partially true. Despite it, he deserves an apology for the rotten thing she had said and pushing him away again, even though they somewhat made up for it. She must fix her relationship with him. Ruth cares too much for him and needs Pennywise around.
The only thing Ruth wished she got clarification for is her growing feelings towards Pennywise. She's starting to feel this tug in her stomach and powerful attraction towards him. Does it mean Ruth desires him in that fashion? Or is it just hormones playing with her emotions because of the pregnancy? Now that would have been a fun question to ask if Jordan were still alive. Ruth cringes from the thought of asking that woman anything.
Maybe I should consult an actual doctor. I probably should start taking prenatal vitamins, too.
Ruth sighs heavily then slowly laid onto her side. She stares at the yellow rose again, where a genuine smile finally surfaces. A weight lifted off her shoulders then, Ruth no longer feels lost. As Ruth relaxed and filled with content, she felt a familiar cold prickle run along her spine to her toes. She snaps her gaze to the open door. He's not there but is home nonetheless.
"Pen," she whispers to herself.
Oddly enough, Ruth loves having this ability. She never told him about it. Maybe now is a good time to let Pennywise know. Ruth quickly sat up and stood to her feet, instantly becoming dizzy. She groans and nearly toppled forward. It took her moment, but Ruth got her bearings.
"Pen!"
She stumbles out of the room and towards the landing, getting dizzy again with a groan. Ruth heard the basement door viciously snap shut. Apparently, Pennywise is not in a good mood. Despite his current state, Ruth follows with the intent of confronting him. She must apologize for what she had said and done to cause this rift between them. She can't go without him. He is the light within her darkness, and quite literally, too. Besides, Ruth adores her tall, evil goofball of a killer friend.
Ruth rounds the corner and quickly descends the steps, dizziness overwhelming her again. Instead, she ignores it to watch from above at the bottom stairwell, hoping by a stroke of luck Pennywise was there. He wasn't.
"Pen!" She cries out. "Pen, please, we need to talk! I'm sorry for…"
Ruth's focus on approaching Pennywise blinded her footing, her quick feet missed a step and stumbled. She tried to make a grab for the railing to no avail. Her hand slid from the banister, falling sideways. A startled scream leaves Ruth's lips as she crashed and rolled down the steps. Her body crumbled at the foot of the stairwell, landing in a heap and instantly fell unconscious.