~Wednesday~
"Mom, you're sure about this right?" I watched nervously as my Mom piled all my dad's stuff into boxes to either donate, sell, or burn - the majority ending up in this box. "I mean, I'm angry with him too but doesn't dad want any of this stuff?"
"Elizabeth, your father made it very clear that he doesn't want or need anything from this family anymore. He said that half-melted whore is providing all he needs so he said just to get rid of it. Besides, you know that FP is coming home in a few days and I will not have any trace of Hal Cooper in this house when he gets here," Alice stated matter of factly.
She had been so much more open with me since the discovery that she and FP Jones were star-crossed lovers, finally getting their happy ending. It had taken some getting used to, knowing that the man my mother loves is the father of the man I love, but it almost seemed like the universe knew what it was doing. No matter how strange the entire situation was.
"Mom, I'm just a bit surprised at how well you are taking all the changes honestly. I mean, I know you and FP rekindled whatever romance you had going on before but are you really ready for this? Living with someone who isn't dad?" I didn't want her to think I wasn't happy for her, but I just didn't want her or FP getting hurt if this thing hits the fan.
"Look, Betty, I appreciate your concerns. I really do, but I have spent far too long hiding my feelings for FP or running away from them. I got a second chance, we got a second chance. Me and FP both. I don't want to waste another second without him. I need him. I cared about your father, I really did, but FP's the only man I have ever really truly loved," I could see tears in Mom's eyes and couldn't rain on her parade with my silly fears. They are both adults and I can see the way they look at each other. Who am I to take that away from them? Besides, I literally just jumped into living with a man I have only been dating a few months, who am I to judge her life choices?
"Ok Mom, you're right. I'm sorry. Here, let me help. We can sort this stuff together and then we need to talk about the party, okay?" I said nervously. I was more afraid of how Alice was going to react to my news about joining than I was about actually having to do the Serpent Dance itself. I knew my Mom had been through this initiation and also how much she has hated the Serpents in the past. It may have seemed strange but I really wanted her blessing on this. I started to clench my fists but stopped myself from piercing my skin.
I moved to start sorting things into different boxes but I stopped when I see that Alice was staring at me suspiciously. She could obviously tell how anxious I was right now and her face grew worried as she stepped beside me, grasping my hand.
"Elizabeth, what is it? Did something happen? Is there an issue with having the party that day?" She asked, truly concerned that things would not go well. Alice wanted FP's welcome home to be a smooth transition and she wasn't going to let anything throw a wrench in her plans.
I could remember all the times I got this look from my mother. She had the same look when I was 4 and scraped my knee on the back deck. Or when I burned myself on my birthday candles at age 5. But after what I knew now about her split from her one true love, she was never the same after. Always trying to toughen us up, never wanting us to show fear or weakness. Of all the things I had missed, I missed the concerned Alice Cooper most. I think...
"Um, no Mom. Well, there is something happening that day that I really don't know how you will handle. And our relationship has been so good lately and I just don't want-," She cut me off with a sharp laugh. I tilted my head in confusion, waiting for my mother to calm down from her laughing fit.
"Is this about your initiation into the Serpents, Elizabeth?" Mom said it so plainly that I completely lost the ability to speak for a second. How...
"And before you ask how I knew, ask yourself something. Did you really think FP wouldn't tell your mother what you were planning? I mean, be serious, honey. You couldn't have kept this from me even if FP and I weren't back together," She said, arching her eyebrow at me.
"Oh. Well, I guess I didn't think of that. But are you angry?" I asked, holding my breath and waiting for the wrath of Alice Cooper.
"Elizabeth, why on earth would I be angry? You seem to forget that your mother is a Serpent as well. And I too know how persuasive the Jones men can be," she teased, making my stomach churn at the mental images this invoked.
"Again Mom, I don't need to think about you and my boyfriend's dad doing...things," I grimaced at the thought. I mean, if FP is anything like Jug... Ew, Betty, STOP! I thought as I shook the images from my mind.
"Come on Elizabeth, don't be a prude. If FP's skills are anything to go on, I'm sure Jughead is keeping you very well satisfied?" She said with a wink. Oh, Dear Lord... I can't believe my mother and I had the same exact thought. Maybe history really is repeating itself. I am so embarrassed by the conversation that I nearly dropped the stack of books I'm holding and I felt my face burn.
"Jesus Mom, can we not talk about my sex life, please?" I said seriously, trying to get her to change the subject. She only laughed harder and patted my hand.
"My word Elizabeth, you are so transparent. At least I can tell from the shade of your face that my assessment is correct," she teased before turning back to separate more of dad's thing.
At least the awkwardness is over, for now...
~Thursday~
"So let me get this straight, your mom was trying to get you talking about your sex life... with your boyfriend... who happens to be her boyfriend's son?" Toni laughed, holding her ribs. "Damn Coop, that has to be the funniest shit I've heard all day!"
I huffed, throwing my empty water bottle in her direction purposely missing her head. "It's not funny T, I was mortified! She kept wanting to trade off pointers and compare stories! I almost died! I don't know how my prim and proper mother turned out to be a freak in the bedroom." I shuddered, remembering her trying to explain this thing FP used to do with his tongue. My face heated again just thinking about it but I hoped that it wasn't too noticeable since I was already flushed from the workout.
Toni and I had been spending hours upon hours this week practicing for my initiation on Saturday. And as much as I hated the word, I couldn't help but want it to be perfect. I wanted Jug to see just how much I wanted this and that I wasn't afraid.
Toni has had previous experience in pole dancing and choreography so naturally, she volunteered to be my coach. Although, I think secretly she was just excited to be able to be to show off her skills and add a new female into the Serpent fold. We were definitely the minority in this gang, but we were hoping to change that once I am a full member.
Since each girl had to do a different dance, something uniquely tailored to fit with their personality, Toni had planned out a seductive and edgy routine for me to do that was sure to know anyone's socks off. She wanted it to be extra special and sexy since I'm Jug's girl. I still had a lot of nerves about the nudity part but the years of cheerleading and track had made pole dancing surprisingly easy for me. It had actually been kind of fun, honestly.
"Seriously B, it is kinda funny, don't you think?" Toni chuckled at my attempt at a scowl. "Ok, ok, let's change the subject and stop talking about FP boning your mom. Are you good with the song choice?" Toni asked with a wicked grin.
I laughed, knowing full well that she knew I was more than okay with the music. "Yeah T, I am. I think it fits and I've already learned the routine to this song so I think I'll be just fine. Besides, I have always found that song to be sexy and that's what we are going for, right?"
"Well, I think we've had enough practice for the day. How about we go get cleaned up and discuss your ideas for your lingerie before we start our shift at the Wyrm?" Toni asked, turning to pack away the cd player into the storage closet.
"Wait! Let's just run through it one more time and then we can call it?" I asked sweetly, getting into my starting position. Toni rolled her eyes, sighing while hooking the player back up to the speakers.
"You got it, Coop. God, you are such a perfectionist," Toni said as she pressed play on the cd player.
Girl, you have no idea, I smiled to myself and begin my routine.
Usually, on Thursday nights, the Wyrm is dead save for the few regulars who never seemed to leave. But with tonight's half price drink special the place was flooded with rowdy frat boys. We had been getting a steady influx of local college kids from Greendale coming in more frequently recently and some of them could get, well, aggressive.
Don't get me wrong, I've done my fair share of waitressing over the years so I know all too well about guys getting handsy or not taking a hint when we aren't interested in their games. But there seemed to be an especially higher risk of waitressing in a bar setting. Especially when one factored in the often skimpy uniforms - for example, the tiny jean shorts and heels mixed with the tight babydoll tee's at the Wyrm - that caused guys like that to go primal.
Jughead had been pretty good about showing everyone around the bar that we are an item and also keeping me from being in any situation that could trigger my anxiety about the Ghoulie attack a few months ago. Unfortunately, some nights he and the boys had Serpent business to take care of so Toni and I were left to fend for ourselves while they did their thing.
And tonight - sadly - was one of those nights. It had just been me and Toni working while the guys were in the back handling "work issues". I learned quickly that - even though the Serpents were legit - it was better not to ask about what actually went on behind those closed doors. I knew they couldn't tell me anything anyway and Toni knew better than to talk business around me, at least for now. I'd been learning so much from them all already that the secretive business talk didn't even matter to me.
Being with the Serpents had helped me grow more confident in handling myself, that coupled with Jug's obsessive need to teach me self defense had helped immensely too. Even if most of our sparring sessions end in crazy hot sex. Every day I could feel myself getting stronger and finding other ways to handle the darkness a little bit better.
Tonight, the bar had been almost packed for at least the last hour and some of the guys were starting to give me a little too much attention for my liking. I'd already been pinched, propositioned, and groped one too many times but instead of my anxiety taking over, I was just getting pissed off. I walked to the bar where Toni was and slammed my tray down to pick up my next drink order.
"I swear to God T, the next asshole who tries to grope me is getting a stiletto to the balls," I scoffed and blew the stray hairs from my eyes. She gave me a sympathetic look and smiled knowingly. She had seen how these animals had been treating me all night but she knew that I wouldn't want the boys to be disturbed when I knew I could handle it myself.
"Sorry, girlie. I've been there, trust me. Hell, I still get that shit and I only work behind the bar. The guys will wrap things up soon and then everything will calm down," she said, patting my hand to try and soothe me before looking over my shoulder.
"Shit, I think table 19 is trying to get your attention, Coop." She said as I groaned. These pricks had been hitting on me all night long and if it didn't stop soon, I'm not entirely sure I could be held responsible for what might happen next. I took a deep, soothing breath and tried hard to suppress the urge to smack these dickheads.
"Ugh, just shoot me. In the face, please," I sighed before putting on a happy face and heading over. The four boys at the table - and I say boys because real men don't act like these fuckers - were all cut from the same mold: college age, preppy, entitled, rich douchebags who thought they were God's gift. All of them were like clones of Archie and I hated it. How in God's name did I marry someone like this? I pondered for a brief second as I approached the table.
"Hello boys, is there anything else I can get for you tonight?" I asked sweetly, flashing my best fake smile, my ponytail swinging as I glanced between each of them. They all exchanged a sinful look and laughed. Then, when the laughter had subsided, the tall blonde at the table spoke.
"Uh yeah, sweet-tits. I'll take a lap dance and your number," he winked, staring at the curve of my ass lecherously. "Although baby, if that lap dance comes with a happy ending, I won't be needing the number," He licked his lips and continued to look me up and down while all his friends laughed again. I rolled my eyes at his statement before I spoke.
"Yeah, not gonna happen. Even if I didn't have a boyfriend, I wouldn't touch you with someone else's vagina. Now, I suggest you boys settle up your tab and get the hell outta this bar before things get ugly," I stated coldly. I was too damn tired and simply not in the mood for this kind of crap anymore tonight. I started to walk away but I felt a hand grab ahold of my wrist.
Here we go... I sighed, the anger stirring in my belly.
"No, no, no, that's not how this works, babe. I guess you must not know who I am because if you did, you'd know I will get what I want. I always get what I want sweetheart, even if it's from cheap Southside sluts like you," he purred as his hand moved to my ass, squeezing. I could feel my blood boiling over with rage and then it happened.
I grabbed the guy by his shirt and slung him to the floor face down, pinning him down with my high heel. Gripping his collar with one hand and his hair in the other, I pulled his head back while I dug my heel into the small of his back. I leaned over to speak into his ear, close enough for him to hear over the noise of the bar.
"Listen here you misogynistic troglodyte, I don't give a shit who you are or where you come from. You step into our bar and you will treat all women, not just staff, with respect. You got that, motherfucker?" I pushed my heel into his back a little harder causing him to whimper. My skin was on fire as I continued to keep him pinned to the floor, tugging his hair roughly.
"Now, this is your one and only warning. You ever touch me or any other woman in my presence without her express permission again, the next thing my heel pierces is your fucking testicles, you got that?" I spat. I was beyond done with assholes like this guy and I wanted everyone to know I meant business when it came to protecting the women in this bar.
At this point, I noticed that the entire bar had gone completely silent and his friends were in their seats, frozen in fear. I glanced to my left to see all of the Serpents have emerged from their meeting and were staring in our direction. I didn't let it phase me as I waited for his reply, pulling on his hair roughly.
"Uh-uh ok lady, yes," He whined, tears beginning to stream down his cheeks.
I pulled his hair harder and twisted my heel, digging it in further, "Yes, what?"
"Um, yes ma'am, it won't happen again, ma'am. I swear. I'll pay our tab and go. Do you... ow, um... take American Excess?" He simpered and I released him, stepping aside for him to stand up. I kept my face deadly and watched him make sure he wasn't going to try something else.
"Why yes, we do. And I'll assume that you will be giving a 25% tip for my troubles?" I crossed my arms and tapped my index finger, raising one eyebrow to indicate my impatience.
"Oh, yes ma'am, um I think 30% is probably better- uh yeah, it's more than fair. Here's my card, charge all of my friend's drinks to it also and we'll be on our way," he handed me his card, trembling as I snatched it from his hand. He could see the scowls on the faces of all the Serpents behind me and he realized just how dangerous of a situation this really was.
"Okie dokie, sir. I'll be right back with your receipt," I said in a sickeningly sweet voice and skipped towards the bar, acting as if I hadn't just threatened to impale the man's balls just 30 seconds before.
I headed to the register to retrieve his tab and ring him out when I heard snickering behind me. I turned to see Toni, Jughead, Sweet Pea, and Fangs all trying not to laugh. I shook my head and swiped the card, waiting for the transaction to process.
"What?" I asked finally, my confusion evident as the receipt began to print.
"Please God B, tell me we just witnessed 'Dark Betty' in all her dominant glory?" Toni giggled, passing a beer to Sweet Pea and Fangs. Jug smiled at me seductively but I could also tell by the look in his eyes that he was also proud that I handled myself when he wasn't able to. It made me smile to myself too.
"Remind me to murder Kevin for letting that slip. Yes, guys, I suppose you all did get a glimpse of my other half," I rolled my eyes and continued to gather everything I needed to take back to the table. Sweet Pea laughed even harder and nudged Jughead with his elbow.
"Damn Jones, you're one lucky son of a bitch. She's feisty, I like it. Hey Coop, if things don't work out with you and Jonesy here, I could use a good Domme," Sweet Pea teased as Jughead smacked the back of his head. I turned to look back at him with my eyebrows arched.
"Sweets, unless you really do want me to break your damn jaw, shut the hell up. Besides darling, you definitely couldn't handle me," I quipped with a wink before turning around to take my table their card and receipt. Sweet Pea's jaw dropped and Jughead burst out laughing with the others following soon thereafter.
Once the crowd had left, Jughead grabbed my hand and pulled me into his office, locking the door behind us. As soon as we were alone he gathered me into his arms and sighed in relief. He pulled back to look me in the eyes.
"Are you good, Princess? They didn't hurt you did they?" His voice was laced with genuine concern and fear. My heart ached at the brokenness in his eyes from the thought that he wasn't there to protect me, again. As I placed my hand to his cheek, he leaned into my touch and closed his eyes, breathing in my scent.
"I'm ok, Juggie. I promise. Truthfully, those jerks were just the last straw tonight so I had to teach them a lesson. I'm just sorry everyone had to see that side of me," I said embarrassed before I looked into his eyes and saw him smile.
"No babe, I'm glad everyone saw that. They'll know not to mess with my girl," he said as he twirled the end of my ponytail, a dark look in his eyes. "Besides Princess, it was kinda hot," he whispered, leaning down to press a tender kiss to my lips. His left-hand cradled the back of my neck while the right dug painfully into my hip, just the way I like it. He walked me backward towards his desk, deepening the kiss as we went.
Once my back slammed into the desk, he lifted me up by my thighs and sat me down on the edge. My hands ran under his jacket, slipping it off before heading for the hem of my tee and pulling it over my head while he discarded his flannel as well leaving him in his white tank top. I could feel all the ridges of his chest and stomach, making my insides burn from the desire pooling between my thighs.
He kissed the swell of my breasts, nipping at my collar bone and leaving marks as I ran my hands down his chest and under his shirt, tracing the hairs that lead to his waistband before slipping my hand inside his boxers, gripping him firmly. I moaned deeply as I began to work him slowly, causing Jughead to gasp and bite down hard onto my neck. His tongue soothed the mark and then traced all the way from my collarbone up to my earlobe before taking it between his teeth, tugging gently.
"Mmmm Princess, someone is eager," he rasped, " But if you keep that up baby, this will be over before it even starts," he breathed against my ear as I worked him faster. I wanted to make him come, to have him fall apart just from my hands. I felt him shuddering against my chest before he grabbed my hand to still me.
"You know the rules, Princess. Ladies first, remember?" Jughead said gruffly as he pulled my hand from his jeans and placed it back onto the desk, holding it there. He leaned in to capture my mouth in a wet kiss once again and moved to slowly unbutton my shorts.
I lifted myself off the desk enough for him to be able to slip my shorts and panties down my legs before he stepped back, raking his eyes over my mostly naked figure before dropping to his knees to kiss my inner thighs. I sunk my fingers into his hair, begging him to kiss me where I wanted, where I needed, when there was a sharp knock on the door.
Groaning at the intrusion, Jughead bit my thigh gently and sunk his fingers into my warm center before calling out to whoever was on the other side of the door, "This better be fucking good!" He shouted before running his tongue along the place that I have been craving his touch most, his fingers working their magic in tandem. I tried my best to stifle my moans, however unsuccessfully, as he continued to suckle my clit into his mouth and massaged my g-spot.
"Sorry Boss, you know I wouldn't bother you unless it was important," Toni shouted through the door. Jughead released my button and dropped his head against my leg with a sigh.
"Fine dammit, give me 20 minutes!" He shouted before looking up at me. "Sorry Princess, we're gonna have to skip the foreplay and make this a quickie," Jughead smiled before stripping his jeans and plunged inside, driving into me and pushing me over the edge twice before the 20 minutes was even up.
"Jesus Christ Jones, you know I eat my lunches at that desk right?" Toni yelled as we emerged, throwing a dishtowel in our direction with a disgusted look on her face. I instantly turned bright red and avoided eye contact with everyone but Jughead just laughed and tossed the towel back at her."Yeah, well I like to eat stuff at that desk too so deal with it, Topaz. I can't help it if I was hungry and needed a snack," He fired back with a wink, sucking his finger into his mouth and causing my blush to increase. I smacked his arms as he laughed and he kissed me, deepening it after a few seconds.
"Dude, TMI!"-"Gross" Sweet Pea and Fangs both shouted at the same time.
"Seriously, we get that you guys are like freaking jackrabbits but keep that shit to yourselves. And off communal eating surfaces, thanks," Toni said rolling her eyes while pouring a round of shots for everyone. "Thank God there wasn't a fire or you two would have been dead."
"Yeah, but what a way to go," Jughead smirked and wiggles his eyebrows at me. "So what was the big emergency anyways?" He asked Toni curiously.
Toni's eye flickered to mine before going back to Jughead's. "Uh, Serpent business, Boss," she said in a serious tone.
This phrase was one I'd come to know very well over the last few months as code for 'shit that wasn't my business'. He gave me an apologetic look and frowned. I knew that he didn't like keeping these things from me but I understood why it was necessary. The rules were there for a reason and Prospects, whether they were dating a Serpent or not, were not allowed to know insider info. It was safer for everyone that way.
He leaned in to wrap his hands around the sides of my neck, fingers ghosting along as he whispered into my ear, "I'm sorry, baby. I won't be very long, promise. You know I love you, right? It's not personal," he asked, kissing my temple. My hands moved to rest over his as we stood there with our foreheads touching.
"Juggie, it's ok. I know the rules and I understand, I promise and... I love you more," I teased and gave him a soft kiss, nuzzling my nose against his. I felt him breathe out a sigh of relief before he kissed me again.
"I swear to God Jones, don't make me hose you two down. I'm fairly certain you can pry yourself away from each other for five minutes so we can handle our business, dude," Sweet Pea grumbled. I narrowed my eyes at him before I started to look around the room - like I heard a ghost whispering to me.
"Hey, do you guys hear that? Sounds like a whining little bitch... Toni, please find this one a girl so he can get laid already," I shot back at Sweet Pea playfully.
"Cooper, are you trying to be my wing-woman? I didn't know you cared," Sweet Pea said as he clasped his hands together, a sarcastically awed expression on his face.
"Sweets honey, it's not even like that. I just figured the only way to get you to shut the hell up was to find you something else to occupy that mouth of yours. Then maybe we can all get some fucking peace and quiet," I laughed watching Sweet Pea choke on his beer.
"Blondie, every one of us has heard you and Jones going at it at all times of day and night. Quiet ain't in your vocabulary," Sweet Pea retorted, causing my face to burn crimson again. Jughead chuckled and kissed my temple once again and took pity on me.
"Alright, guys, enough talking about me and my girl's sex life. Let's get this meeting over with before it gets too rowdy in here and Betts has to stab someone." Jughead shoots me a wink and a lopsided grin before heading to the conference room in the back. Toni stepped from behind the bar to follow them, telling me that Dakota will help with drinks and play bouncer until they are done.
"It's cool Tone, we got this," I smiled and got back to running drink orders. I couldn't believe that in just two days I would actually be able to be apart of these meetings. Well, that is if I can survive The Box first.
~Friday~
Jughead's knee was bouncing 90 miles a minute as we sat in the back of my mother's station wagon, pulling into the parking lot of the prison where his father had spent the better part of the last decade. I couldn't tell if his fidgeting was because he is excited or a bit nervous, praying something didn't go wrong or that this wasn't some sort of mistake and his father would have to remain in this horrible place. I gripped his hand tighter and gave him a reassuring smile.
It was a warm and beautiful Friday morning and mom and I had taken the day off so that we could be there for Jughead and FP. Jughead may have been a grown man but this would be the first time he would be able to embrace as his father as a free man since he was a child. And as tough as I knew Jughead was, I also knew that he was still that same little boy inside when it came to FP. He didn't get a choice when his mother took him away and all he ever wanted was to come home to be with his father and make up for lost time, but that wasn't in the cards for the Jones'.
Ever since Jughead's return to Riverdale, his father had been in some sort of cell. Whether it was the local Riverdale lock up or the cold dead depths of Shankshaw, he was never able to have that one thing he always wanted. This would be Jughead's first time seeing his dad outside of these constraints since he left for Toledo and I knew just how much this moment meant to him. And while I knew that my mother was understandably just as excited, I knew that this was a landmark day for the Jones men. Father and Son: reunited at last.
Mom pulled up to the gates where they would be releasing FP, parking the car at the end of the small driveway. As we all stepped out to meet him, my mother spoke, "Ok now guys, I know we are all excited to be here to welcome FP home, but let's make our reunion here as short as possible. I want to get your dad as far away from this place as possible. He has spent quite enough time here-," before Alice could even finish her sentence, we watched the doors slowly open and Jughead's breath caught in his throat. He and his father were both grinning, tears shone in their eyes, and as soon as the rickety gate opened they run into an embrace.
My mother and I were both crying as we watched the men we love being reunited with one another. After a few minutes, FP clapped Jug on the back, a sure sign that he was ready to be released before he ran over to my Mom. FP picked her up, swinging her around like a doll and then drawing her into a very heated embrace. Jughead and I looked away but we could still faintly hear sweet whispers of love and affection coming from our parents before Jughead finally cleared his throat.
"Hey Alice, didn't you say something about wanting to get out of here quickly?" He asked almost shyly. Alice and FP broke apart and smiled widely at us. As we climbed back into my Mom's car, Jughead leaned in to kiss me softly.
He pulled away, caressing my cheek with his thumb and the adoration clear in his eyes. "Thank you for being here with me, Princess. I can't even begin to explain what this means to me. I love you so damn much it hurts," he whispered sincerely as his thumb brushed my skin gently.
"I love you too, Juggie. Forever," I whispered back and kissed him on the cheek as we headed towards FP's new home with my mom.
"Alice, really, you don't have to fuss so much over me. I'm just happy to be living somewhere where the only other person I have to shower with is you," FP said as he slapped Alice on the backside. Jughead gave off an audible groan and looked at his lap, trying to hide his face from our parents' PDA.
"Is this what we are like?" Jughead asked me quietly as mom and FP made their way into the kitchen to start cleaning the dinner dishes, mom standing at the sink while FP stood behind her holding her close.
"Honestly babe, I think we're worse," I laughed, glancing over to see my mom turning to get on her tiptoes and wrapping her arms around FP's neck. "I think this might be our cue to leave and give Romeo and Juliet some privacy," I whispered. Jughead looked up, instantly regretting it but clearing his throat to get their attention anyway.
"Uh Dad, Alice, it's getting kind of late so I think Betts and I are going to just head home. I know you guys have a lot of catching up to do and we have to get the bar ready for tomorrow, so we'll just see you there. Sound good?" Jughead said quickly, standing to help me from my chair to give our parents a proper goodbye.
"I hate the Jelly couldn't make it out today but she promised she'll be there tomorrow. She had to pull a double at Pop's to make up for getting tomorrow off so she probably just now got home from work. But she said she's really excited to see you, Dad," Jughead said as he hugged FP tightly.
"I understand Jug, and I know it's gonna take JB some time to adjust to her old man actually being around. But I hope I can mend those bridges the right way, with both of you kids. I love you, boy," FP's voice cracked as he patted Jughead on the back.
"I love you too, Dad," Jughead choked out as he gave one last squeeze before FP brought me in for a hug as well.
"Take care of my boy for me, kid. I can tell how happy you make him," I couldn't help but get teary-eyed at his sentiment and squeezed him tightly. I gave my mother a quick hug before we headed home to get everything ready for the initiation tomorrow. My nerves were buzzing with excitement, knowing how close we were to me being a full member of the Serpents. The sensation was equally addictive and overwhelming.
As we walked into our apartment, we found Jellybean sprawled out on the sofa with giant can headphones on while she sketched something on her notepad. She was bobbing her head to the music and I knew whatever she was drawing, it had her in an artistic trance. I felt Jughead's hands grasp onto my hips firmly before he pulled me flush against him while his lips pressed feather-light kisses to my neck, guiding me towards the hallway.
"Let's leave her to her art, Princess. I want to get you into a nice warm bath then spend the rest of the night worshipping every inch of your body," I could feel my core quivering as his breath fanned across the side of my face. I lifted my hand to wrap around his neck in order to pull him in closer and gasped when he bit down, suckling at the tender flesh.
"You keep that up Jones and we won't make it to the bath..." I keened, giggling when he hoisted me up by my waist and carried me towards our bedroom. Once he placed me back down to the floor, I turned and pressed him up against the door, kissing his firm jaw and lavishing his neck in return.
He growled my name in frustration as I sucked harder on a particularly sensitive patch of skin on his neck and I could feel him growing more excited by the second. Just as I pulled his shirt off and started to nibble on his shoulder, I felt his hands sliding down my back and cup my bottom. "Looks like the bath will have to wait. Ready for round one, Princess?" He murmured.
"For you, Jones? Always," I rasped, smiling seductively before he tossed me onto the bed and pulled my shirt over my head...
The water was warm and smelled of lavender and vanilla as Jughead slid in behind me, placing kisses on my shoulder when I leaned back on his chest and relaxed. Soon, he gently began to wash my back and shoulders with a sponge, taking the time to slowly lather up the soap and massage my muscles before rinsing me off.
I loved these times of the day. I had never felt more relaxed and cherished than I do when I am with Juggie, especially during our time alone. He treated me like a goddess, worshipping my body and my soul, and I had never been more in love. Even if my marriage was not officially over, I already knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with him. I breathed a contented sigh and he turned my head so he could look into my eyes.
"Penny for your thoughts, love?" he whispered his eyes like two storm clouds brewing with desire, his fingers tracing my jawline. I kissed the pads of his fingers tenderly as he brushed them against my lips.
"I was just thinking about how much I love you. How happy I am that we're here, how there is nowhere else I would want to be. How much I want this to be our forever," I glanced down, not wanting him to see the fear of rejection in my eyes. It's not like you are asking for a ring, Betty. I nibbled on my lip, thinking to myself.
Ever since Archie and I got together, I never felt like I was good enough for him - or any man for that matter. Archie never made me feel like I was the only woman in the world, rather that I had to constantly work to obtain his affections. Looking back, I'm sure if my Mom had not been so demanding when it came to perfection when I was young then I probably would have seen how universally wrong Archie and I were together. I'd have seen him for the lying, cheating, womanizing predator he really was. I never in my life would have believed that after Archie, I'd find someone I'd love as much as I do Jughead.
He grabbed my chin to bring my eyes back up to his and spoke softly, "Look at me, Betts. I want you too, all of you, forever. Which- um, I actually wanted to ask you something. Formally at least," I shifted myself in the tub so that I could see his face better, my heart quickening. Is he? He chuckled at my visible nerves.
"Don't freak, Princess. I'm not proposing marriage. I'd rather save that for after you are no longer Mrs. Archie Andrews," his lips formed a lopsided grin as he caressed my cheek. "What I am proposing though is more like a promise that would possibly lead to that someday. Um, what I'm trying to say, Betts, is... well... Betty, will you be my Queen?" Jughead's eyes sparkled, full of hope and anticipation as he waited for me to respond. A sense of euphoria washed over me and I climbed into his lap to straddle him, wrapping my hands around the back of his neck.
"Juggie, are you asking me to be the Serpent Queen? Your Serpent Queen?" I whispered in awe, running my fingers through his hair. Jughead slowly nodded and I felt my face split into a beaming grin. I couldn't seem to find my words so I just crashed my lips into his and poured my answer into it. I felt his desire twitching under me and I knew he felt the same stirring I did. He pulled back to rest his forehead on mine.
"Is that a yes, Princess?" he asked, voice husky with wanton desire. I ground my core against his hardened cock and kissed him again. "Yes, my love. I'll be your Queen. I will always be yours, Juggie," he tightened his arms around my waist and pulled me back in.
"My Queen..." he whispered, guiding my hips down and thrusting up into me. I lifted my hips up and slowly began sinking down on him repeatedly while he buried his face between my breasts, lavishing them with attention. My fingers tugged at his damp locks, eliciting growls from him that vibrated against my sternum before he captured my lips again in a bruising kiss.
"Juggie," I gasped as I pulled away, crying out every time my clit rubbed against his pubic bone. Jughead brought his hand up to cup my breast, guiding the nipple into his mouth and nibbling on it gently. He gradually moved his other hand under the water, his thumb finding my pulsating clit and pressing down firmly to draw tight circles against it. I could feel myself climbing towards my release when he whispered into my ear powerfully.
"Come for me, babygirl. I need you to come," he groaned, his jaw tightening at his impending release. I arched my back, riding him with abandon until my orgasm came screaming out of me loud enough to wake the whole damned town. I heard Jughead grunting as he rutted up into me, filling me as he came with a roar. We slowed our pace as I leaned in to kiss him sweetly, my hands caressing his cheeks.
"I love you, Juggie."
~Saturday - Initiation Day~
"Damn Blondie, you look good enough to eat. And trust me, if we were both single I would show you just how much," Toni teased suggestively as she walked into the backroom of the Wyrm that had been converted to a changing room for the night.
I hadn't put the rest of my outfit for the evening on just yet, taking a moment to admire the lingerie that Veronica and Cheryl picked out for my initiation. It was a black lace bustier with emerald green trim, matching panties, and a garter belt to hold up the sheer black stockings. I felt sexy and confident but I was also extremely nervous. The pasties Toni had made for me were barely visible through the sheer material but I knew Jug was going to lose his mind when he saw me dance.
"Thanks for the compliment... I think." I laughed nervously, desperately trying not to clench my fists.
Toni walked up to stand beside me and looked into the eyes of my reflection in the mirror. "Alright Coop, you good?" she asked me, concerned by my demeanor.
"I don't know Toni, I'm scared. Not just about the snakes but also about the dance. I know we practiced this thing for a while now, I'm just not sure about being so naked in front of everyone. I've never done anything like this before," Toni rubbed her hands up my arms and sighed.
"Betty, honey, if you can't do this it's ok. Neither Jug nor any of the rest of us will fault you or treat you differently than we already do now. This is a scary thing, but that vulnerability is what we all have to see to know you are with us. You gotta rip off your mask and stand before us as your true self. This whole thing is symbolic of that. Sexist and old school? Yes, but you know traditions are hard to break," she said softly, her eyes portraying all sincerity.
"No Tone, that's the thing, I don't want to be treated like I am now: always an outsider looking in. This is what I want; to be a part of something bigger. Just... I don't know, tell me to suck it up and pull up my big girl panties or something. I need a badass bitch pep talk here," I chuckled weakly.
"Well, you're in luck Betty Cooper, you've come to the right badass bitch," Toni grinned.
After I finished having my 'Coming to Jesus' moment with Toni, I got dressed into my powder blue sleeveless button-down and pink skirt before I stepped into the bar with my head held high and a look of determination on my face. Jug and FP were already on the stage beside a large clear coffin-like case while Sweet Pea and Fangs carried 5-gallon buckets up the stairs, placing them beside the case. I could only assume that these buckets were full of snakes and I felt my gut-churning slightly with fear.
You can do this. You are Elizabeth Freaking Cooper. You helped put away bad guys when you were in high school. You are strong, you are fearless. Now prove it to everyone here, I chanted my mantra in my head as I walked towards the stage.
The crowd hushed as all eyes turned on me, checking to see if I'd falter or back out. I looked towards the back of the bar to see my mother standing with my friends and she looked so damn proud. That was a look I had rarely ever seen on her face before today and it was just what I needed to boost my confidence even higher as I joined the Serpent King and his predecessor on the stage.
Jug's expression was hard but I could see the love in his eyes as I came to stand beside him. He gave me a reassuring wink before he turned to face the crowd, speaking assuredly, "Brothers and Sisters, tonight we gather to witness the transformation of Elizabeth Cooper. She knows the laws and recited them in the face of danger. Now, she will lie with the snakes, become one with them, and emerge as a Serpent on the other side!" A thunderous roar came up from the crowd as they raised their glasses and cheered me on.
"Don't worry, Betts, none of them have their venom glands. Just stay still and remain calm. It's just five minutes, try to find your happy place. I love you," Jughead whispered before helping me into the box and gently laying me down before turning back to the crowd.
"Now for the real test, can she survive The Box?!" And with that, FP and Jughead started pouring buckets full of snakes all over my body, careful to not put any on my head or neck. My first instinct was to jump up and scream but I willed my body to remain still - not wanting to fail - as they closed the lid.
This is nothing, you have lived through so much worse, Betty. You can do this, just think of Jughead. I started to envision all of our moments together: his touches, his breath on my skin, his wet hot kisses, the way he laughed at my stupid jokes or the way he looked at me when he tells me he loves me. Before I knew what was happening, I felt hands grabbing my arms and hoisting me out of the box. I looked up at Jughead, confused, and he just smiled down at me.
"You did it, Betts. The hardest part is over and you did perfect, baby. Almost thought you were in shock there for a bit," He said, whispering to me lovingly as he slid his fingers up and down my spine.
"Wait, that was already five minutes?" I must have blacked out and gone to another part of my brain because I didn't even feel like I was in there for longer than a minute. My mouth instantly became dry as I realize now it was time for my final test: The Serpent Dance. "Hey Juggie, can I get some water before I start the dance?" I asked, my voice trembling with nerves.
"Of course babe. Here," he handed me a chilled water bottle that was sitting beside the glass case on the stage. I took a few quick gulps and willed myself to breathe normally. "I'm ready now Juggie, can you ask Toni to start the music?"
Jughead nodded as he and FP left the stage, turning the house and stage lights down as they went. I slowed my breathing as I heard the music begin to play. It's now or never, I thought.
'Your man on the road, he doin' promo
You said, "Keep our business on the low-low"
I'm just tryna get you out the friend zone
'Cause you look even better than the photos'
I began to sway my hips to the music, focusing my eyes only on Jughead as I slowly unbuttoned my top and pulled it free from my skirt. My fingers trembled as they worked to pull the buttons free, but I kept watching Jughead and saw the fire in his eyes beginning to burn.
'I can't find your house, send me the info
Drivin' through the gated residential
Found out I was comin', sent your friends home
Keep on tryna hide it but your friends know'
I let my shirt gracefully fall to the floor and I bent my arms behind my back to unzip my skirt, letting it drop to the pile at my feet. I ran my hands up my body and into my hair before I stepped out of my skirt and walked slowly to the pole directly behind me.
'I only call you when it's half-past five
The only time that I'll be by your side
I only love it when you touch me, not feel me
When I'm fucked up, that's the real me
When I'm fucked up, that's the real me, yeah'
Spinning around the pole felt so freeing - like if I could do this then I could do anything. Like I was the only person who controlled my body. I caught a glimpse of the hungry look in Jug's eyes that filled me with desire as I slid my back down the pole into a squat before moving back up slowly.
'I only call you when it's half-past five
The only time I'd ever call you mine
I only love it when you touch me, not feel me
When I'm fucked up, that's the real me
When I'm fucked up, that's the real me, babe'
After doing a few more simple moves on the pole that Toni showed me, I sauntered back up to the front of the stage, swinging my hips seductively. I felt Jughead's eyes tracing every inch of my body as I started to unclasp each tiny hook on the front of my bustier.
'I'ma let you know and keep it simple
Tryna keep it up don't seem so simple
I just fucked two bitches 'fore I saw you
And you gon' have to do it at my tempo'
Once I was halfway through unclasping my top I slid my hands into my hair again, slowly tracing my fingers down my neck, onto my collarbone, until finally, they were traveling down the exposed gap between my breasts before finally falling back onto the hooks to finish the removal.
'Always tryna send me off to rehab
Drugs started feelin' like it's decaf
I'm just tryna live life for the moment
And all these motherfuckers want a relapse'
Before removing my bustier, I turned around so that my back was facing the crowd, hips still swinging. I slowly pulled the bustier open and let it fall down my arms onto the floor. Covering my breasts with my hands, I slowly turned and locked eyes with Jug. Here we go, I hope he likes my surprise, I thought hopefully.
'I only call you when it's half-past five
The only time that I'll be by your side
I only love it when you touch me, not feel me
When I'm fucked up, that's the real me
When I'm fucked up, that's the real me, yeah'
I slowly lowered my hands down my sides, finally resting them on my hips while still dancing, exposing myself fully to everyone in the crowded bar. I could almost see Jughead's mouth beginning to water when he saw that the pasties I wore were in the shape of two tiny gold crowns.
'I only call you when it's half-past five
The only time I'd ever call you mine
I only love it when you touch me, not feel me
When I'm fucked up, that's the real me
When I'm fucked up, that's the real me, babe'
I headed back to the pole to finish up my dance, showing off some more of the complex tricks that we practiced this week and trying to keep my eyes on my King whenever I stopped spinning. I poured as much sex appeal as I could into the end of this dance, wanting to prove to everyone that I was not afraid.
'Hills have eyes, the hills have eyes
Who are you to judge? Who are you to judge?
Hide your lies, girl, hide your lies (Hide your lies, oh, baby)
Only you to trust, only you'
As I finished up my final move on the pole, I heard the music quietly fade as Jughead and FP walked onto the stage, along with my mother. I stood completely exposed and vulnerable on stage while Jughead carried over a black silk robe that had his Serpent symbol embroidered onto the back. As he wrapped it around me, I could feel the sexual tension pouring off of him. He leaned in to whisper lowly so that only I could hear.
"As soon as this part of the ceremony is finished Elizabeth, I'm going to take you into the storage closet and fuck you like the dirty girl you are. Would you like that, Princess?" My thighs clenched in anticipation at his words as he tied the robe closed for me, kissing me hard on the forehead before turning us to face the crowd.
"Serpents, as your King it is my honor to present to you our newest member and my Serpent Queen, Elizabeth Cooper!" Jughead and the crowd cheered loudly. However, as soon as the noise deemed another shout could be heard and this one sent a chill down my spine.
"OVER MY DEAD BODY IS THAT BITCH'S SLUTTY DAUGHTER EVER GOING TO BE QUEEN OF MY GANG!" A dark-haired woman dressed in a Serpent jacket and all-black shouted from the front door of the bar.
"Gladys?" - "Mom?!" FP and Jughead shouted in unison, disbelieving what they were seeing. I could just barely make out Jellybean, who was standing behind her mother with an apologetic look on her face, and I started to put the pieces together.
And I had a bad feeling that tonight was just getting started.