Edd's face paled as Nikolas was led away. what did he mean the genius thought, panicking. A hands fell onto his shoulder. Glancing up, Edd saw Mr. Barr starring back at him.
"Don't worry about him. Rose Water State Penitentiary is virtually impossible to escape from. He's just trying to get under your skin." He said with confidence.
"Are you sure Mathew?" Barbara said walking slowly into the room.
Mr. Barr levelled a look at the woman. He only found out about certain things until after he told her about the trial. He wasn't too pleased. "Positive. Edd won't be seeing that asshole for a long time."
Relief washed over Barbara at his words. Thank the Lord she thought as everyone departed leaving her alone in the courtroom.
...
The trio had lunch at Toni's. There was an air of peace about them as they chatted. Edd's chest felt considerably lighter. Though thoughts and insecurities still swarmed, he pushed them away and enjoyed himself.
"What ya thinking about D," Kevin asked as his dad went to pay the bill.
"Honesty? Nothing for once." He answered laughing. "I think your father is right."
Raising an eyebrow, Kevin said, "about what?"
A small smile flashed on Edd's face as he said, "he told me that once the dark passes, the light is more beautiful."
Kevin felt his heart swell at the familiar saying. "He used to tell me that after Ma died."
Edd didn't know what to say. Kevin never talked about his mother. Trying, he said, "I'm sorry Kev,"
Kevin smiled and said, "it's ok, eight years is a long time, but I know she isn't sad anymore."
Squeezing the redheads hand, Edd said, "I'm glad."
"Ready to go boys?" Mathew looked between the two and couldn't help smiling. He was glad they had found each other finally. Both teens had been through a lot in their young lives.
"Yep, I am. Are you babe?" Kevin asked.
Nodding Edd said, "Yes."
After Mr. Barr dropped the boys off at home he drove back into town. He had a few loose ends to tie up.
Kevin and Edd decided to spend the rest of the day at the museum. There was exhibits both of them would enjoy. They took in a laser light show before touring the planetarium. The couple relaxed for the first time in what seemed like forever.
Edd slept soundly that night, pleasant dreams filling his head.
...
School was a welcome routine for Edd, and surprising Kevin too. It felt good to get back on track. Nazz, Ed and Eddy met the two at the front steps.
"Salutations." Edd said as they walked up.
"Hey sockhead, how goes it?" Eddy spoke first.
"Quite well actually."
"Really?" Nazz asked.
"Yeah Nikolas got sent to Rose Water." Kevin said happily.
You could see the anxiety fall from everyone's face at the news.
"Good, he needs to stay there double D." Ed said. if not it won't be pretty
"Don't worry my friend," Edd said patting the larger boy on the shoulder, "he will."
The warning bell rang and the kids headed inside to class.
...
The cul-de-sac decided to see a movie Friday to celebrate Nikolas's sentencing. The Kanker's accompanied them as well. The movie sucked but no one cared. Things were beginning to look up, at least for homecoming game against Lemon Brooke was approaching, with it a certain quarterback would be on campus. But Edd felt safe surrounded with support. He'd cross that bridge when it came time. The genius was overly worried, however.
As everyone departed for the night, Kevin and Edd walked downtown, neither wanting to leave just yet. The raventte looked curiously at his boyfriend, who was deep in thought.
"What's on your mind, Kev?"
The jock didn't reply for a moment. Finally he said, a blush filling his cheeks, "I've been trying to think of a way to ask you to the homecoming dance."
Edd's face redened to match Kevin's. Giggling he said, "I think you just did."
Face still hot the redhead replied, "I guess I-" he didn't get a chance to finish before Edd leaned up and planted a passionate kiss upon his lips.
Pulling away slightly, Edd said, "of course I'll go to the dance with you." Kevin's heart filled with triumph as he kissed his dork with gusto.
*ring*
Kevin groaned as his phone rang. Edd outright laughed as he took it out. Looking at The caller ID he frowned. His dad never called. Answering it he said, "hey dad what's up?"
"I have terrible news Kevin."
END OF CHAPTER TWENTY ONE
I know it's short, I'm sorry.
Do you hate me yet? ;-P