Slight M rating a bit down for Justine's language, I wouldn't call it M but I don't think the rating is the same in all countries everyone meassures didferent, just look at the TV-shows!
Part 51
Wes was shaking. He was literally shaking. He was standing in the wings at regionals and was shaking so much he resembled a maracas. He heard a soft chuckle and felt two hands on his shoulders.
"Calm down", Austin was saying soothingly. "You will be fantastic."
"What if I can't do it", Wes asked and looked up at him. "What if I mess up or something?"
"As long as you do your best you will be fantastic", Austin said fondly. "And look at it this way, by joining us this time you get to practice for the upcoming four years in this choir."
"I think I'm gonna be sick."
Austin laughed and pulled him into a hug.
"No you won't", he said. "And do you know how I know?"
"No", Wes said and shook his head while looking up at Austin.
"Because you're a star in the making. We all know it, now let's show the crowd."
Wes smiled and turned to watch the group performing on stage. It was Vocal Adrenaline but this time the group was really good. They moved in perfect sync, their singing was good, their lead singer was great but not fantastic and all in all it was amazing. The Warblers gaped in shock and when some of the VA saw them in the wings they shot them very smug looks and they mocked the Warblers with their looks and hand gestures. Which made the Warblers boil in anger. Austin put a hand to Jesse's shoulder.
"Jesse", he said.
"Yeah", Jesse said never taking his eyes off of the VA.
"Kick their ass."
"With pleasure."
Austin gave his shoulder a squeeze and Jesse smiled. Wes thought that this was the sign of the apocalypse. Austin and Jesse were never this friendly. But he figured it had to do with their common hate for the VA. They hadn't met them for that long but they were still hating them and if the faces of their other opponents were something to go by… they felt the same. The VA was mocking them all and it made their blood boil and made them even more determent to win this.
Oliver stood to the side biting his lip nervously. The Everetts were beside him, trying to sooth his nerves and for the thousandth time tell him that his injury isn't a problem for anyone in the Warblers. But Wes knew that Oliver doubted that just as much as he and the freshmen did. Jesse wasn't making any exceptions in his bullying and even though Austin and the seniors were still trying to get it out of the freshmen why they all had so much bruises and small cuts and were just acting jumpy and scared… the freshmen only spat answers or were so angry that they stormed off. Wes knew it hurt the seniors.
He looked around and saw how they were dressed today. The seniors were all dressed the same. They wore the black boots, black slacks, black trenchcoats, black shirts and black ties. The juniors had the navy blue blazer with red piping and underneath it they wore the red slipover, the normal tie, white shirt, grey slacks and black shoes. The sophomores wore the normal uniform. The freshmen wore white shirts, red slipover, grey slacks and black ties. Wes was dressed as the freshmen, the only difference was the rid and blue stripped ties.
"Okay guys gather round", Austin called and the Warblers turned to him. "Let's show those damn robots from Carmel that we are regionals champions. This victory has been in the making for many years and today we will take it. We will take it because in comparison to those robots we are a band of brothers. We have the younglings that we have to protect", he smiled at Wes and the freshmen and Wes knew that they all felt bad. Austin and the seniors were trying to look after and protect them but they didn't let them.
"…and of course we have your slightly overprotective big brothers", Austin's words got through Wes' day dreaming. "So I know we can beat them because we are and always will be the Warblers, a band of brothers. And you all know our saying?"
"Once a Warbler", the seniors said.
"Always a Warbler!" they all cheered and turned to the stage.
"And last out tonight from Dalton Academy in Westerville", the emcee said. "The Warblers!"
The stage was completely dark and Jesse stepped out on it and took center stage.
Jesse: Put your faith in what you most believe in (Warblers: Hum…)
Two worlds, one family
Trust your heart (Warblers: Hum…)
Let fate decide
To guide these lives we see
As Jesse sang the last note the Warblers walked out on the stage and made a formation before they started up more advanced backups and some dancing.
Jesse: Put your faith in what you most believe in – Jesse grabbed Kim's hand and they bumped their shoulders together.
Two worlds, one family
Trust your heart
Let fate decide
To guide these lives we see
A paradise untouched by man
Within this world blessed with love
A simple life, they live in peace
Softly tread the sand below your feet now
Two worlds, one family
Trust your heart – The audience cheered at the soulful and synchronized dancing.
Let fate decide
To guide these lives we see
Beneath the shelter of the trees
Only love can enter here
A simple life, they live in peace
Raise your head up
Lift high the load
Take strength from those that need you
Build high the walls
Build stronger beams
A new life is waiting
But danger's no stranger here
With every ending comes a new beginning
Two worlds, one family
Trust your heart
Let fate decide
To guide these lives
To guide these lives we see
Put your faith in what you most believe in
Two worlds, one family
The dancing had been more advanced than at sectionals but still not so advanced that it was awing the crowd. Oliver knew it was because of him and felt just a bit guilty. But the others didn't seem to care so he kept a smile on his face. After Jesse finished the song he stepped back and the boys stood on the steps that was on the stage. The seniors at the top, juniors below them, sophomores below them and freshmen below them. Wes slowly walked forward and stood at the front. He was so nervous he could die. He took a breath and they all started the next number with Wes as lead.
Wes: "Will you count me in?"
I've been awake for a while now
You've got me feelin' like a child now
'Cause every time I see your bubbly face
I get the tinglies in a silly place
The audience cheered and the Warblers started a move that would be their trademark for upcoming years. They stepped to the side in synch and snapped their fingers.
It starts in my toes
And I crinkle my nose
Wherever it goes
I always know
you make me smile
Please stay for a while now
Just take your time
Wherever you go
The rain is falling on my window pane
But we are hiding in a safer place
Under covers stayin' safe and warm
You give me feelings that I adore
They start in my toes
Make me crinkle my nose
Wherever it goes
I always know
That you make me smile
Please stay for a while now
Just take your time
Wherever you go
I've been asleep for a while now
You tuck me in just like a child now
'Cause every time you hold me in your arms
I'm comfortable enough to feel your warmth
And it starts in my soul
And I lose all control
When you kiss my nose
The feeling shows
'cause you make me smile baby
Just take your time now
Holdin' me tight
Wherever, wherever, wherever you go
Wherever, wherever, wherever you go
They start in my toes
Make me crinkle my nose
Wherever it goes
I always know
That you make me smile
Please stay for a while now
Just take your time
Wherever you go
The audience cheered and the Warblers took a bow. Oliver smiled at his friends before he hurried off the stage. But to make him feel less singled out one sophomore, one junior and one senior also left. Wes had been told to stay put because he and Jesse would handle the lead together of the last song. The beat boxers started first and then the others followed. Jesse and Wes high-fived as they danced to get into right place. Wes was in the mass of boys as Jesse began the number.
Jesse: Just watch me girl
Be ready, I'm coming for you
My body just felt it I knew, tonight is the start of something new
The way you dance, makes we wanna get down and show you
that we can become one, not two
As we move to this beat like crazy
Warblers: Move it, move it, move it, move it
Let's rock it, rock it, rock it, rock it
We can even pop it, pop it, pop it
Tonight is on
Woo!
Jesse: Girls step up to the party
Grab a boy and move your body
Do like me and my honey
Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Ooh
Boys step up to the party
Grab a girl and move your body
Do like me and my shorty – At shorty he pointed at Wes and Wes took center stage.
Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Ooh
Wes: It feels like, we've been doing this for years
The crowd is reflecting our moves, amazing what a beat can do
Now follow me (Jesse: follow me), and pop that body clap your hands
Turn around on one two (Jesse: say: Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Ooh)
Warblers: Move it, move it, move it, move it
Let's rock it, rock it, rock it, rock it
We can even pop it, pop it, pop it
Tonight is on
Woo!
Wes: Girls step up to the party
Grab a boy and move your body
Do like me and my honey
Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Ooh
Boys step up to the party
Grab a girl and move your body
Do like me and my shorty
Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Ooh
Jesse: Baby look at us, the way we move
from side to side, it's all so smooth
With every step we take, it just get better
Girl no doubt we got it together
Wes:Baby look at us, the way we move
from side to side, it's all so smooth (Ohh)
With every step we take, it just get better
Girl no doubt we got it together
Both: Girls step up to the party
grab a boy and move your body
Do like me and my honey
Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Ooh
Both: Girls step up to the party
Grab a boy and move your body
Do like me and my honey
Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Ooh
Boys step up to the party
Grab a girl and move your body
Do like me and my shorty
Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Ooh
The dancing was very hip hop and it looked amazing as it was done in perfect synch and at the last "oh" Jesse and Wes leaned on each other and shook hands, showing the audience that they got along after all. The dancing had been a 'battle' between two teams. On Wes' team was the seniors and freshmen while Jesse had the sophomores and juniors. It looked as if they had been fighting in their dance and they all ended it either leaning on each other, with their arms around each other or one boy going down on one knee and the other one sitting down on the floor leaning against him. The audience cheered loudly and the boys all got up and took a bow, putting their arms around each other's shoulders and the missing members returned.
The Warblers were boiling with anger. It was clear that they were the crowds favorite but they still got places third! No one was happy and they were trying to figure out why the heck they hadn't won! Oliver told them to blame him, which everyone refused. Everyone but Jesse and he was loudly declaring that if it hadn't been for Oliver not being able to do the advanced stuff they would've won. Austin told him off but Jesse just went on and on. He didn't stop his accusing until Mitch by 'mistake' smacked a door open in his face. Mitch had hurried in front and gone to the bathroom. His plan was to wait until Jesse was close and then slam the door in his face… and he did. When he heard Jesse's voice coming closer he opened the door and Jesse walked right into it. Everyone laughed, Mitch looked 'guilty' and Wes spat:
"I think I blame half of our lead that can't even stay on his feet!"
He knew it would cost him some pain later on but it was worth it. Vocal Adrenaline taunted them too. They met the group when they were leaving and the insults and mocking just came flying. The Warblers were sitting around waiting for their buss and Austin managed to keep the group from attacking the VA. But when one girl saw Oliver's leg she said:
"Oh that's why you are so totally bad? You are all semi-finished products."
Not even Austin could hold back the giants of the Warblers. The 'giants' didn't really have to do anything. They got up from their seats and positioned themselves in front of the Warblers and the VA took a few quick steps back. Why? Well imagine yourself if you are suddenly facing six muscular guys that all measure between 192 to 200 centimeters, or about 6.4 feet to 6.7 feet. Yeah you wouldn't be so cocky than either I'd expect.
"Care to repeat that", Rob growled, he was the tallest at 200 centimeters (about 6.7 feet).
"No", the girl hurriedly said and they left. Austin cursed and then pulled Oliver into a hug. The freshman was pale, shaking and trying hard not to cry. When Austin pulled him close he let the tears flow. Austin shot an angry glare at Jesse, who was coming back from the bathroom… and after talking to the VA coach. Jesse looked at Austin.
"What", he asked but Austin didn't grant him a response. He just held Oliver closer.
Everyone at Dalton was angry at the jerks of Carmel High and imagine their satisfaction when it was clear that the Dalton Academy Cassowaries would meet Carmel High's Ninjas. The match was being at Dalton and Wes was satisfied when he realized that all the Warblers were there… along with the rest of the school. It was the last matches of the year.
The Cassowaries were already national champions in the various martial arts they performed. Sadly Wes couldn't get a title since he wasn't a high school student. Carmel had been informed about this and made sure Wes could face off with someone anyway. Carmel enjoyed seeing people lose so they set aside their best fighter to tangle with Wes… little did this big guy know it was a black belter he was going up against. Jesse won his match as did everyone else from Dalton because they were determent to kick some ass.
"Go get him Wes", Coach Brown said and Wes smirked and got out on the mat. Dalton cheered and Carmel stared. The little guy that just stepped out on the Tae Kwando mat had all the protection that was part of the uniform but they still saw his black belt. But their shock turned to glee when the guy was facing took the stage. He was twice Wes' size.
"That's cheating!" someone shouted.
"Yeah", Wes called. "I have a higher ranking than him!"
Dalton laughed at that and Carmel did too, but in mockery. The judge looked at Wes, waiting for him to leave walkover.
"What are we waiting for", Wes asked in annoyance. "Let's get the show started!"
The judge shrugged and Wes and his opponent bowed to each other. The judge started the game and BAM! The boy from Carmel hit the mat. Dalton cheered. Wes got the point and they were to start again. The start came and WOSH! The guy from Carmel got hit in the head by Wes' foot. Wes smirked. He got high points since it was a jump, spin kick. The guy growled and went at Wes angrily but the shorter and more agile boy stayed out of harm's way. BAM! The Carmen guy hit the mat again, he saw stars and his world was spinning.
"Oh sorry did I kick you too hard", Wes mocked and the guy sat up, staring at him. "You can give up now if you want."
The guy knew this game wasn't a win or loss so he got up and bowed to Wes, leaving walk over. There was no way for him to catch up in points… or skill. Dalton cheered and Carmel booed. Wes felt satisfied and turned to his team. The Cassowaries won this last match of the season. They weren't only regional and state champions. They were national champs and it showed.
The Warblers were watching Kim with confusion. He was bouncing off the walls in the common room. He was watching something on his laptop.
"Kim what are you doing", Austin asked.
"Watching ESC 2007", the Swede answered happily. "Go The Ark!"
"The what?" Otto asked and sat beside the Swede. On his laptop was some kind of music competition. "What's with the phone number?"
"You call in an vote for the best song", Kim said. "Sadly people usually choose their neighbors."
"What?" Otto asked confused.
"Are you watching ESC", Olivia asked as she and Wes entered. She had heard the part of the voting.
"Yeah it's taking place right now in Helsingfors… I meant Helsinki, my cousin sent a link to where you can watch it", Kim answered.
"Cool", Olivia said and plopped down beside him. "Where are we?"
"Greece", Kim answered. "Then I think it was Georgia and then Sweden! Woo!"
"When's UK?"
"I think… um…" he scratched his head. "Number 19?"
"Cool, we're on 10. So is Sweden's any good? I haven't heard UK's so don't ask."
"Well I love it but that's because I love The Ark."
"Cool."
"Hold it", Justine said and the two looked up at her.
"What", they asked.
"What are you watching?"
Kim smiled and told them that he and Olivia were watching Eurovision Song Contest. It is an annual singing competition held among most of the active member countries of the European Broadcasting Union, which is why Israel is part of the competition. Each member country submits a song to be performed on live television and radio. Then each country casts votes for the other countries' songs to determine the most popular song in the competition.
Each country has a professional jury and the people call in to vote. The votes the jury gives and the people vote then gets divided between the points: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12. The contest has been broadcast every year since its creation in 1956 and is one of the longest-running television programs in the world. It is also one of the most watched non-sporting events in the world, with audience figures having been quoted in recent years as anything between 100 million and 600 million worldwide, since Eurovision has also been broadcast outside Europe.
"So it's a big honor winning", Nathan asked.
"Nah", Kim said. "You get to host the next show. But ABBA was 'discovered' through this. It launched their career as well as Celine Dion's when she won for Switzerland."
"Cool", Justine said. "Can we all watch?"
"Yeah let's hook it to the big screen", some senior said and Kim agreed. They had just managed to get it hooked when it was Sweden's turn. Kim grinned proudly and hummed along and the boys stared at the screen. They couldn't believe their eyes. Were those guys for real? And when the singer threw off his silver and feathery jacket and only had some strange sequin necklace covering his bare chest they all stared at Kim. He just shrugged.
"It's The Ark", he said as if it explained everything. It probably did to him.
"I like it", Joseph said. "But…"
"But", Kim asked. "But what?"
"It sounds like that other song… 'Because love grows where my Rosemary goes and nobody knows but me. She talks kinda lazy and people says she's crazy…'"
"Yeah yeah whatever", Kim said and waved them off. "Name one song that doesn't have something in common with someone else!"
Joseph backed off because it was clear that this was a touchy subject for the Swede. Olivia giggled and then it was UK's turn.
"Oh my God what is this?!" Nathan exclaimed when they watched a group dressed as flight attendants sing something about a flying flag.
"I have no idea", Olivia said and blushed. "And now I'm ashamed of being British."
"Oh please Ukraine is far worse than you", Kim teased. They watched the whole show and to the surprise of the Warblers Kim and Olivia were both getting more and more hostile and annoyed… and freaking scary. Wes looked at Eric and Brett.
"Is it normal to be afraid of your girlfriend", he asked.
"Yes", they and all straight boys around said. Olivia just flipped them off and Kim told them to shut up. Everyone was happy no one called him Swiss because that… would start an anger so big it made a volcanic eruption look like a camel fart.
A few days went by and both Kim and Olivia were upset over the song that won. Kim because he claimed that The Ark was much better and Olivia because she liked another song. The Warblers had a few small performances around the school. Wes was sitting in his classroom when he heard a small sigh and looked up at Ms. Lincoln.
"Ms. Lincoln", he asked. "Are you okay?"
"Oh yes I'm fine", she said and smiled. "I'm just gonna miss this Wes, next year you will be a freshman so our little classroom here will be taken down and I will actually miss taking care of your education."
"Well I am taking advance French with you next year."
"I know but I will still miss you. I mean you've been my student at this school", she said and laughed when she realized she sounded possessive. "And I think I'm not really ready to share you with the rest of the staff."
Wes laughed and got up and gave his teacher a hug. She smiled and hugged him back. She remembered the first time she had met this boy. He had been so sad, so scared and so lost and broken that it ate at her heart but now… now he was starting to become a strong young man, like the rest of the Warblers. Sure he still had some frailness to him but he had friends and grownups that could look after him. She didn't only think of Wes as her student, he was like a nephew to her. She had looked after him ever since he came and even though she knew he had Ma Trixie at the Lima Bean she hoped that she herself was a bit of a mother figure to this boy, if not she hope she was an aunt and not just some teacher.
"I think I have to say thank you Ms. Lincoln", Wes said and she looked at him.
"For what?" she asked.
"For putting up with me", he grinned cheekily. Yes he had spent too much time with the Everetts and Otto Jonhson and Nathan Newland. She made a pft-noise and cuffed him up the head and he laughed before hurrying off to his work again. But Wes just had time enough to sit down to start working when the PA sounded.
"All staff and students to the auditorium", the school secretary said and turned it off. Wes and Ms. Lincoln looked at each other.
"I don't know", Ms. Lincoln said and got up and she and Wes left the library with a few other students and the librarian.
"What's going on", Wes asked as he sat down with Nathan and Otto and the other boys from the dragon. He watched Ms. Lincoln join the teachers and he watched one of them say something to her and she paled. The swim coach was openly crying and Wes had never seen Carmichael look so sad. Wes could see that it took everything their principal had to not start crying. The teachers all sat down and Carmichael took the mike. He sighed.
"Boys I am sure you are all wondering why we are here", he said. "And I'm afraid it is not good news. Today, just after lunch hour Coach Brown and Coach Stevens went into the swimming hall to check that it was clean and that nothing was left after PE class. But what they found there is heartbreaking. You all know of Elliot White, our school's national champion and on his way to the Olympics. Elliot have always seemed as such a happy and content young man, an uprising star in swimming. We all had high hopes for him and knew he could go far. But today after lunch Coach Brown and Coach Stevens found Elliot White on the bottom of the pool. He had tied weights to his legs, waist, feet and arms. Boys, today at lunch Elliot White drowned himself."
The whole room started speaking in shock and Wes' eyes flew to Mitch. Everyone in the Warblers looked in his direction. Mitch was white-faced and his eyes were very big. Austin got up from his seat and motioned for the junior beside Mitch to move. Austin took his place and pulled Mitch onto his lap as Justine took Mitch's hands and Joseph hugged him from behind. Elliot's dorm mates were all crying, that including the Warblers from the Vermillion Bird. The only Warbler senior, Matt Jonson, was crying the hardest. He had known Elliot since they both started at Dalton.
"Elliot left a note", Carmichael cut in and they all turned to watch him, he was crying now. "He left a note where he told of his reasons and he wrote that he wanted you all to know his reason why. Elliot, our star swimmer… our Olympian has been on steroids his whole Dalton career."
"What?!" someone yelled.
"It's a lie!" someone else shouted.
"He writes it in his letter", Carmichael continued sadly. "He writes that he never thought he was good enough and thought that the steroids was his only way to fame. How he passed all the tests we don't know but he did. But he writes that he would never be able to live with himself if he went to the Olympics and won. He also wrote that he didn't want to be alive to face the shame. He writes that he loves all his friends and envy the real champions of the Dalton Academy Grebes. And he says that it is everyone but him.
He wrote that he would never be able to give up on the steroids because he needed them to survive. He asks for forgiveness and he declares that he wants to go down a warning example for anyone who wants to try steroids." Carmichael sighed again. "Elliot was a very unhappy young man, with lots of pressure from home and here. It is my theory that he didn't feel that he could be loved unless he excelled in the swimming his father was so successful in.
I am really sorry that he thought that his only way out was ending his own life. I am sorry that he didn't trust me enough to come to me and I want all of you boys and our dear Warblerette to know that you can always come to me. Losing someone is hard and we came close to lose someone last semester", he looked at Mitch. "Lucky for us we didn't… but now we did.
I am sure you boys don't know how to handle it all, but know that all your teachers, all the staff and I are here for you. If you need someone to talk with just come by. We are here for you. But please don't let the only memories of Elliot be this and that he used steroids. Let us remember him as a happy young man that was quick to laugh, happily made jokes, was never in a fight, was a good student and that looked after the underclassmen in his dorm. Let us keep him frozen as a soon to be nineteen year old that was happy just being with his friends and at the place he loved. Elliot's parents have asked all of us to attend and have asked the Warblers if they could sing Elliot's favorite songs at the funeral."
Austin looked up.
"The Warblers will", he said with a voice that gave no room for arguments. Wes felt an arm around him and he was pulled into Nathan's arms. He rested his head on Nathan's shoulder and cried slightly. Carmichael kept on talking but no one was really listening. Everyone was thinking of Elliot White… and why. Why they didn't notice something was up. Why…
The church was cold and everyone was dressed in black. Wes hated it, he hated black at times because at times he associated it with loss. He associated it with losing the seniors since it was their last year at Dalton and he associated it with the loss of a loved one. Everyone in the church was crying and watched the white casket with the white and pink roses. The priest had been talking a bit and the cantor had played a few songs. Matt Jonson had too, he'd played and sung Angel (In the Arms of An Angel) and had been fighting hard to keep it together.
Everyone was crying. All boys from Dalton, Elliot's family, the Dalton staff, the friends from other places… everyone. Wes had told Olivia to not come but she refused to let him go alone so she was right there with him. Dressed in black and looking sad. Wes held her hand through it all and knew that it soon was their turn.
Jesse wasn't there… he was sick. He'd gotten stomach flu or something. They'd rearranged then so that Justine would sing one of the songs and Wes the other. When it was their turn the Warblers all got up and sang the two songs they'd been asked too and everyone cried. Even the Warblers cried as they sang, they let the tears stream down their cheeks and sang with all the love they had for Elliot and his family. They sang for that happy eighteen-year old that they had met and gotten to know. They sang for a friend.
The last few months left of school was not as cheerful as they usually were and it was understandable. They had never lost a student like this before… never lost a friend. Wes hadn't even had enough willpower to steal the whistle from Austin since the suicide. But he was going to do it at graduation… graduation. That nearly had him crying. The Warblers were all gathered in the Hall talking and having fun, but Austin brought their attention to himself by blowing the whistle. Everyone turned to him and he smiled sadly.
"Let's talk about the upcoming graduation now", he said. "We have a few boys leaving us this year as well. I'm one of them. And we have our Warblerett leaving us."
"You can't leave", Nathan yelled getting up and glaring at Austin who was sitting behind the council table as usual. "We need you!"
"It's not his fault Nathan", Otto said and tried to calm his best friend down a bit.
"We can't stay forever", William said. "This year it's our turn to leave. But it's not like we'll be gone forever."
"Exactly", Reed said and stood up. "Remember our saying boys. Once a Warbler…"
"Always a Warbler", the rest of the boys said half-heartedly. Austin smiled.
"So", he said. "Does our seniors want to tell the rest of the group where they are headed? Reed."
Reed Morgan got up and pushed his glasses up, the African-American sighed.
"I am going to Northwestern to study journalism", he said and smiled. "I got my acceptance letters two days ago and I get to keep an eye on Peter and bug the hell out of him." The Warblers cheered for him.
"Malcolm", Austin said and looked around the room for the platinum blonde boy with blue eyes. He was leaning against the wall near a window.
"I'm gonna study to become a teacher at NYU", he said with a soft smile.
"Aren't you tired of school yet", Nathan asked in horror and everyone laughed.
"Roger", Austin called red-head with glasses smiled.
"I'm going to Harvard to study bio chemistry", he said.
"Nobel prize the next", Otto said happily and Roger smiled.
"I'll go next", Tom Bedford volunteered and ran a hand through his black hair, but he averted his brown eyes from everyone, afraid he's start crying. "I'm gonna study engineering at Yale."
The Warblers cheered for him and Wes walked up to him and gave him a tight hug. Tom hugged him back and the boys around him joined in on the hug.
"I'll go now", Joseph Hughes said and got up from behind the council table and ran a hand through his brown hair. "I'm gonna go to Oxford to study English literature."
"Oxford UK", Oliver asked and Joseph nodded. "Aw man we'll miss you!"
"I'll miss you all too", he said and smiled.
"Wait", Julian said. "I thought that if someone would study English literature it would be Austin." All eyes turned to their now blushing chairman. Justine smiled and hugged him from behind.
"He is", she said. "He's going with Joseph."
"What?!" the other Warblers yelled.
"Dude you can't go to UK!" Nathan said. "What about Justine?"
"I told him to go", she said and looked smug. "I sent in his applications and all stuff in secret."
"I both love and hate you", Austin said and she kissed his cheek.
"So the Diaz/Hughes brotherhood is going British", Otto said and everyone laughed.
"Austin said that his dream is to study at Oxford", Justine said. "Because, hello what better place to study English lit. than in England? But my loveable boyfriend said that he didn't want to go because he would be leaving me alone. But I told him, by applying for him in secret, that I can handle long distance relationships because seriously what girl can compete with me?"
Everyone laughed.
"I love your boy-side too", Austin cut in.
"Which is why no posh-British girl can compete with me", she said happily. "Because I'm not just a woman."
Everyone laughed again
"So what are you gonna do Justine", Wes asked and tried not to have his voice shake.
"I am going to Parsons", she said and skipped up to him and pulled him into a tight hug.
"What's that", Jesse asked. "Sounds like a disease."
"Well since you have the fashion sense of a Neanderthal", Justine spat at him. "It is a school for designers. I'm going there and then I'll start my own clothing line, with Mitch. If we are still on baby?"
"Duh I'm not doing anything without you in my life", Mitch said and she squealed.
"So William", Austin said. "Where are you going?"
"I'm going into politics believe it or not", William said and grinned so his blue eyes sparkled and a few ruffled his black hair. "Since you refuse I can be the next president instead… but Austin you need to write my speeches."
Everyone laughed again and Austin winked at William. All eyes now turned to Matt Jonson and he was looking at his hands. He hadn't been smiling much since Elliot's suicide.
"Matt", Austin asked softly. "Are you okay?"
"I am", he mumbled. "It's just… Elliot and I were going together."
Wes, Justine, Mitch and Reed hugged him tightly.
"We were going to LA to study film-making at a school there…" Matt mumbled. "My first film will be to his honor and memory."
"There's nothing honorable about a cheating suicidal kid", Jesse said and Reed had just enough time to get a good grip on Matt, because the other senior flew at Jesse.
"Jesse!" Austin yelled and got up. Wes could again see that big alpha wolf from when he was so tired he nearly fainted. Jesse though, was not backing down this time. Maybe he was trying to be bold now that Austin was leaving or he just enjoyed riling people up.
"What it's true", Jesse said. "The guy's been a cheater his whole life and then kills himself rather than trying to get clean? In my eyes he's a coward and not worth that memory and honor plate that Carmichael put up in the swimming hall. We all know he cheated! He's not worth any victories!"
"he had no choice!" Austin yelled. "In his point of view he had no choice and when you think so you can't find a way out. None of this was Elliot's fault! We are all to blame for not seeing his suffering! Just like with Mitch. We didn't do the right things then and we didn't do them now! I will not have you in here tainting that good guy's memory!"
"Austin you are graduating and have no power over me."
"I am still here for a few days Jesse", Austin growled. "And as long as I'm here my word is law and you better obey or I'll have you out of this group and this room so fast your testicles will fly off! Then I'll hunt you down and force them down your throat! So shut the fuck up or I'll do it for you! I'd love to see you talk without your teeth!"
Jesse paled slightly and Wes stifled a snort. No one ever said Austin couldn't have a potty mouth.
"Jesse do you like riling people up or something", Nathan asked.
"Of course not", Jesse said. "I just-"
"Tried to challenge the alpha", Joseph said smugly. "But pup that bit you right in the ass."
Matt smirked at Jesse and sat down again, but Reed still held on to him. Just in case.
"Speaking of alphas", Austin said. "We will have to get a new one. But before I do so Kim had something to propose."
Kim grinned and got up.
"I just want to ask the Warblers to show up at my place on June 22nd and celebrate the Warblers second ever annual midsummer party", he said and everyone cheered. Seniors from earlier years will also be welcomed."
"That sounds fun", Michael said with a grin. "Let's do it!"
Everyone agreed and Kim looked happy and sat down. Wes looked at Austin and saw him fingering the whistle.
"Decided", he said. "And now the last point of order for this school year… a new chairman." Everyone looked at him in anticipation and Austin got up and smiled.
"Since I already told him this at the beginning of the year he should know who he is", he said and smirked. "But with the airhead he is I doubt he remember. So Otto Johnson time to take a seat in the big chair."
"Wait, what huh who, me?!" Otto asked in shock.
"Who else?"
"But… but… but…"
"Otto for chairman!" Mitch called and everyone started calling the same… except for Jesse. Austin smiled at Otto.
"What ya say Otto", he asked and smiled. "Ready to take the lead?"
Otto just nodded mutely and everyone cheered and the last Warbler meeting of the school year came to a close.
A few days later Justine was sitting in Wes' room helping him sort through his wardrobe to decide what to keep and what to throw. She watched him go through the shelves and smiled fondly when she looked at him. Wes was so changed since she had met him the first time. Thinking back to it always brought a smile onto her face.
Flashback
Justine walked up to Wesley's door, Jerry close behind her and she knocked it. This small Asian boy that she had seen Jerry taking care of at the Warbler meeting opened it and she strode inside. The room was bare and looked nothing like a room should. It had no taste.
"Gosh such a horrid room", she said. "It lacks taste but we will sort that out sooner sweetie. You and I will soon have this room as pretty as I am."
"Uh…" Wesley looked at her and then at Jerry who had slapped a hand to his face.
"I'm Justine Gideon", Justine said and walked over and pulled Wesley into a hug. "Welcome to Dalton sweetie."
"Uh… thank you", Wesley said confused. "Uhm… what are you doing in here?"
"Oh darling Jerry here told me how awful you were feeling and I just had to come see you to make sure everything was alright. Are you feeling better sweetie?"
"I am feeling confused", Wesley mumbled.
"Why?"
"Um… isn't Dalton an all boys school?"
"Oh I'm not a girl all the time", Justine said and sat down on the bed. "So tell me everything about yourself."
Wesley just stared at her and Jerry decided to step in.
"We actually came here to ask if you wanted to eat some dinner Wes", he asked putting a hand on Wesley's shoulder.
"Oh such a cute name", Justine cooed.
"Will I have to sit with Alvaro again", Wesley asked shyly and Justine felt her blood boil.
"Absolutely not", she said and got up. "Who put you with that dolt anyway? He is a mindless dolt ignore him. That's what I do. You are sitting with me, Jerry, Mark and the other Warblers."
"I don't want to intrude", Wesley mumbled.
"Oh he's such a doll", Justine said and took his hand and pulled him to the door. "Come along sweetie."
Wesley looked horrified but got dragged along anyway. Jerry face-palmed again but followed the excited "girl" and her latest doll.
End flashback
Justine smiled. Their first dinner hadn't ended that well, she was just a bit too much for him. But she had taken for granted that he had been shown affection before… which clearly he hadn't. But she was happy that he now acted like a somewhat normal teenage boy. He was a bit mature for his age but it was nothing wrong with that, I mean her beloved Austin was the same way. When she thought of it, her Austin and her Wes was very much alike. Austin's parents hated him and had disowned him. His brothers had both hated him but now they loved him. Justine wondered if Wes half-siblings would meet him in the future and love him too… even though they would probably hate him first. But… maybe there was hope. She was sure that at least two of his siblings would love him… maybe three or four… depending on how many he had. One couldn't just not like Justine. Then it hit her.
"Darling", she said. "Which boys were it that beat you up?"
Wes looked at her in confusion… but told her.
School was in session at W-high and out in the parking lot some jocks were bullying other kids when suddenly a white convertible car came into the parking lot. Behind the wheel sat the most beautiful girl these boys had ever seen. Smiling like goofs they directed her car to a spot and helped wave her in for a perfect park.
"Ciao bella", one of them said and she got out of the car. She wore black stilettos, her legs had a nice tan, as did the rest of her body, she wore a short black skirt that showed off her amazing legs and had the boys stare at her butt. She wore a white short sleeved blouse and had unbuttoned the top buttons so that you could see her cleavage. She had long golden locks, her nails were long and painted black, she wore makeup that made her look stunning and her eyes made the boys' stomachs flutter. She also carried a bag with her.
She locked the car door and headed for the school, leaving the jock almost fainting as she moved her hips in a very egging way. She walked to the doors that two boys hurriedly opened for her and everyone in her way spread out, to make sure they weren't blocking her. The boys in the hallway were checking her out, sliding down the walls or walked into people or stuff. She made a little spin and a few boys walked into a few doors. She saw her goal at the end of the hallway. It was Reeves, Huey and Toby. They were talking to some cheerleaders, flirting with them.
"Hello Huey", a voice said and his eyes widened and he twirled around. Reeves and Toby grinned like idiots because they saw the most beautiful girl they had ever seen. The goddess of Dalton Academy… Justine Gideon. Huey looked as if he was seeing the devil.
"What do you want", he squeaked and she walked closer to him and trailed her fingers up and down his arm.
"I know you had a little fun a few weeks ago", she said and stood flush against him. Huey was terrified for three reasons. The girl in front of him was a guy that could probably take him on. The girl that was a guy had a boyfriend that he knew could take him down. And he had never told anyone what happened when he kissed this girl that was a guy. He was living on the rep of have been making out with Justine Gideon and having sex with her… well the last was clearly a lie. But still.
"I did", he asked.
"Yes you were giving my little boy Wes a hard time when he was here", she said and smiled sweetly. "I'm so sorry for him going so hard at that cute ass of yours." She pinched his butt and he squeaked before moving away from her.
"Oh I'm sorry did I hurt you", she asked with a little pout. "I would never want to hurt you. I mean other than in bed, we did go fast and hard didn't we?"
Huey paled.
"I… we.." he stuttered.
"Oh yes we did", she said. "I've never had such an orgasm as I had then." She moaned and Huey started blushing. "Things dreams are made of."
"I…"
"Because that's what it was wasn't it", she asked and her smile slid of her face. "A dream?"
She slammed him up against the locker.
"You lying little piece of shit", she said. "We never had sex because a: you are so not my type, b: you are not gay and c: I'm a guy!" With that she took off her wig and the all saw her short and still black hair, well his. The bag he had brought was full of clothes and he put on a pair of pants and pulled the skirt off. He then pulled the blouse with the fake breasts off and showed his own well-toned and muscled chest before putting on a t-shirt. The makeup was still on but it was clear to see now that the gorgeous girl of Dalton really was a boy.
"And if it wasn't for the nails hurting my palms I would punch your lights out so hard your social status hit rock bottom", Justin Gideon growled. "Stay away from Wes or any Dalton boy in the future or I will come back and hurt you. Do I make myself clear?"
Huey nodded and Justin walked out, taking off the stilettos as he went and put on a pair of sandals instead. People still avoided him because even though he wasn't looking like a girl… he was still beautiful.
Wes and the other Warblers watched their friends get their diplomas and Carmichael holding a speech to all graduates… and Austin doing it too because he was Valedictorian. Wes smirked because he saw that the chain hanging around his neck was empty, the older boy hadn't noticed that when Wes hugged him before he left to go prepare for the ceremony Wes had also managed to unhook the whistle. He'd hid it in the perfect place this time... he hoped because Austin was better at finding it than Jerry and Brad ever was.
Otto would be allowed to find something else to gain everyone's attention… as long as it wasn't a blow-horn Wes could live with it.
"My favorite role at this school has been working as the chairman of the wonderful Dalton Academy Warblers", Austin said and the audience cheered. "Stand up boys… "
The Warblers stood up to receive their praise and this time Wes didn't need to get hoisted up to get noticed, they could see him anyway… But the Everetts were gonna have some fun and hoisted Mitch onto a chair and he squeaked in surprise. The boys of Dalton laughed at the shocked look on the small boy and then they cheered when he grinned and waved. Parents and family members of the graduates all got curious as to what was going on. Wes grinned at Austin and Austin smiled back, but not liking the glow in Wes' eyes, something was up.
"I am as an ending my time here I have one last thing to do", Austin said. "Giving the new chairman the token of leadership, use it well." Otto smiled shyly and Austin beckoned him towards the stage. Everyone cheered as the blonde got up on the stage and both boys hugged tightly.
"The whistle is yours now", Austin said and moved the chain from his neck and put it around Otto's. "Please keep it away from Wes."
Otto laughed and looked down at his chest.
"That will be harder than I thought", he said and held up the empty chain. "He's already one step ahead of me."
The room erupted in laughter and Austin stared at the chain and then turned his burning gaze towards the Warblers. They were laughing hysterically, but Wes had disappeared from view. Nathan and Alexander stared at the empty spot, they hadn't noticed him disappear. Austin sighed and took the mike:
"Wesley just you wait until I can get my hands on you!" he barked and everyone laughed again. Carmichael walked up to the two Warblers and gave both of them a hug.
"Now", he said. "The boys in the Warblers wish to send the seniors off with a song."
The Warblers all went onstage, Wes hiding in the crowd, partly to escape Austin and partly for waiting for his 'entrance'. The seniors sat down in their seats while Otto joined his friends. The Dalton orchestra was going to help out this time. Jesse took a step forward and started singing. (Warblers,Jesse,Wes)
And so we talked all night about the rest of our lives
Where we're gonna be when we turn twenty five
I keep thinking times will never change
Keep on thinking things will always be the same
But when we leave this year, we won't be coming back
No more hanging out 'cause we're on a different track
And if you got something that you need to say
You better say it right now 'cause you don't have another day
Cause we're moving on and we can't slow down
These memories are playing like a film without sound
And I keep thinking of that night in June
I didn't know much of love
But it came too soon
And there was me and you
And then we got real blue
Stay at home talking on the telephone with me
We'd get so excited, we'd get so scared
Laughing at ourselves thinking life's not fair
And this is how it feels
Otto and Nathan grabbed hold of Wes' arms and hoisted him up and over Jesse and when he took ground he sang his part.
As we go on
We remember
All the times we
Had together
And as our lives change
Come whatever
We will still be
Friends forever
So if we get the big jobs
And we make the big money
When we look back now
Will our jokes still be funny?
Will we still remember everything we learned in school
Still be trying to break every single rule?
Will little brainy Bobby be the stockbroker man?
Can Heather find a job that won't interfere with her tan?
I keep, I keep thinking that it's not goodbye
Keep on thinking it's a time to fly
And this is how it feels
As we go on
We remember
All the times we
Had together
And as our lives change
Come whatever
We will still be
Friends forever
The Warblers were doing their normal kind of dancing and the seniors nearly cried.
La, la, la, la
Yeah, yeah, yeah
La, la, la, la
We will still be friends forever
Will we think about tomorrow like we think about now?
Can we survive it out there?
Can we make it somehow(somehow)?
I guess I thought that this would never end
And suddenly it's like we're women and men
Will the past be a shadow that will follow us 'round?
Will these memories fade when I leave this town
I keep, I keep thinking that it's not goodbye
Keep on thinking it's a time to fly
As we go on
We remember
All the times we
Had together
And as our lives change
Come whatever
We will still be
Friends forever
As we go on
We remember
All the times we
Had together
And as our lives change
Come whatever
We will still be…
Friends forever
The crowd cheered and the seniors got to their feet applauding and smiling brighter than anyone. The Warblers bowed and Wes winked at Austin and then looked at the stage floor. Austin followed his gaze and growled. Wes had strapped the whistle to a line so that it looked like a cord for the speakers, Austin had no idea on how to get to it and he sighed. Wes won the battle this year too. But hopefully Otto would win next year. It could not stand 3-0 to Wes! That was unacceptable! I mean come on!
After the ceremony the Warblers waited outside to greet the seniors. There was a lot of hugging and a lot of goodbyes. And of course a lot of tears. It was fun to meet everyone's parents though, even if it was just shortly and to meet some of the older seniors that had managed to be free for the occasion such as Joseph's brother and of course… Lucas. They knew they'd all meet up at midsummer but it was still sad. Justine's separation from Mitch was the saddest. After all… it had always been the two of them at Dalton. Wes could barely keep his tears at bay when he hugged her and when she was to say goodbye to Austin all of the others stepped away to give them some privacy. Otto managed to snag back the whistle when they left the stage and Wes was glaring at the thing in hate.
"Don't fret Wessie", Otto teased. "The war will still go on!"
"Oh I will win it next year too", Wes said and tried to smile. "No one can beat me."
"Ha! I know you better than any of the others does. You can't-"
"Wessie get over here", Justine called and Wes hurried off. When he was gone Austin hurried over to where the Warblers, but Jesse, were standing.
"I'm leaving now", he said. "So I just wanna say bye."
"Bye Austin", Mitch said and hugged him. "We'll see you at midsummer."
"Same", Austin said. "Otto come with me for a sec?"
Austin pulled Otto off to the side and looked around to make sure no one was listening.
"Otto promise me something", he said.
"Anything", Otto said.
"Keep your eyes on Jesse. He's no good and I've felt so since he first came here. I heard he's been talking to the VA and I just know he has something to do with the hurt freshmen."
"Austin I know that Jesse can be an ass… but violent towards the freshmen? I don't think so."
"But can you at least promise me you'll try to keep an eye on him? I don't trust him."
"Okay, I promise."
"Thanks Otto", they hugged. "And try to keep the whistle from Wes after you get it back?"
"What are you talking about I…" he looked down and saw what was missing. "Wesley!"
Otto ran off and Austin smiled. He would miss this a lot. He would miss all his friends but he wouldn't miss Jesse, not one bit. Well okay he would miss putting the jerk in place when he got the chance. He looked up at the school and sighed. Time to leave the nest and go out in the world and boy would he go out with a happy bastard.
TBC bye Justine, Austin and seniors we will miss you next year
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