Chapter 2 : A Touch Of Evil (part one)
I knew my plan for the day the moment I woke up in bed that morning . Get ready , early , and make sure the flowers have reached school on time ; 7.20 because Betty is always early . I also feel extra motivated with the plan as I get my makeup on with music playing that I sing along to . I've been wearing makeup since I was twelve and Mum got me a 'lady kit' which had all the toiletry essentials but she also went far enough as to get me a full kit of makeup basics . I was staggery and not smooth at first , but since lessons from backstage at NYFW shows and practicing day to day by the time I was fourteen I was a pre pro .
Now , makeup and doing my hair seems like the only time that I can relax and take my mind of things by myself . In focus , dolling myself up and loving the outcome - there's really no bad points . Im in the middle of filling in my right brow when Mum knocks on open door and comes inside .
"You look agitated , Veronica . Are you okay for school ?"
"No worries , Mother dearest . I'm just taking my time" she's under the impression that I'm still shaken about my dad , since that's what I cried to her about the night of the semi formal . Taking a mental health day sounds amazing , but I also know that's not really the reason I want to take off . The reason is to avoid and avoid the entirety of what happened this weekend .
No , I don't just mean making out like an eskimo with Archie Andrews in a dark closet , betraying the confidantes of my hopefully best friend , and lying to my mother about it all - but also what happened dawn of the next day . When news spread like wildfire that Jason Blossom , the apparent golden boy of Riverdale that everyone talks about like he was heaven's godsend , well - the missing corpse of him had been found floating by the shore of Sweetwater River . And in all of New York's scandals there had never been a teenage child washed up by a shore .
Mostly I heard from the students' Twitter , as gruesome as it was to tweet about something like that - but I couldn't asleep all night and immediately jumped out of bed and told my mum right after reading it . We were driven down to Sweetwater River and the commotion was that of a movie set . It was literally a crime scene , and as many families of the town were there for no real apparent reason just like we were .
A boy I never knew - and this is all I know of him . All I ever saw of him , was his pale cold arm lying out the side of the gurney they'd pulled him away in . People who'd come earlier were talking about how dead his eyes looked . At seventeen years old , this boy was famous in life and death . He might have been the captain of the football team and the waterpolo team , and the richest kid in school , and gorgeous and smart and good . He might have done it all right and been the epitome of a high school boy , but his life was still so unlived and cut short .
And that made me uncomfortable , to say the very least .
Standing there in the cold forest by the death spot of somebody I didn't know , that died horrifically , with all these families I didn't know made me feel like an intruder and very rude . It made it even worse to see them , the Andrews men and The Coopers , both of whom knew Jason. Betty looked so pale and broken , suffering . I know part of that was what had just happened , but also remembering that story of her Polly and the late Jason I just wished I could run up to her and hug her and tell her it's going to be alright , and don't cry .
Nobody was feeling stable . Archie looked more blank than he was there , different reactions from different people I guess . Neither of them would look me in the eye which was understandable . It was only when I went home that morning that I slept off the entire day , and today , Monday brought school again . Already .
I can't get that feeling out of my head . Standing there , after just ruining two people's best friendship , seeing a cold dead body and his devastated parents and the chaos of a crime scene . Yes , maybe I do need a mental health day .
"If it's too overwhelming , just remember you can come right over to Pop's and I'll serve you a delicious chocolate milkshake with extra love" she smiles , straightening my duvet and reminding me dreadfully of her new occupation . I roll my eyes . When my mum said she had to start waitressing to keep us on our feet ? How ridiculous . I know daddy technically got a lot taken from us , but he's an heir .. and I'm his heiress . There's surely an unending flow of money but that's not even the least of my worries right now .
"Yeah . Sure" I throw my mascara away negligently with a little scoff . "Maybe I should just call Melissa up and see if she can give me an on the phone session" I turned around to face her with a little cheeky look .
"Don't joke about darker days , Veronica" her tone is soft , like it usually has been since we moved here and it just became us .
"Hardly were those days dark mother . Although , she used to tell me nostalgia cruelly insists things were better before even if they weren't , and to always enjoy the good of right now . Maybe she was right" I shake my hair out and start combing it .
Mum stays silent for a while , standing behind me in the mirror and looking at us . "She should be . For the price your father was paying , there had better be some good outcome" she finally says . I smile at her words , hoping to try and follow Melissa's advice as best as I can .
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"Just a sec , Ronnie . I'll get your fries now"
"Kay"
The bell at Pop's rung and the main pussycat , Josie McCoy came barging through the door . "Mom , its this same story with him every time . Why should I believe for a second it'll be different this time ?" She asks in clear anger , her whole face is contorted in it .
"Josie , just please - not right now . It's early , on a Monday , I need my coffee and you need to get to school . We'll talk later" Mayor McCoy replies somewhat frustratedly too . The two stand at the counter of Pop's and Mayor McCoy makes her order while Josie stands there scowling with her arms crossed .
"Hey" I move three seats down the row closer to her , hoping to ease some tension at this hour of the morning . "You're Josie right ? Just need you to know - you're cover , of All Through The Night was spectacular . Like , show stopping" I tell her honestly . In the midst of my angst fest , her singing voice had actually been a melody I was very impressed by .
Josie just barely cracks a smile . I know someone having a hard time probably won't cheer up at the first compliment , but it was worth telling her because it's true . "Thank you , new girl . Veronica Lodge" she corrects herself with an eye roll . I quirk my well done eyebrow .
"You know me ?" It's a stupid question one probably asked just to have some self assurance , just for fun . Josie nods with wide eyes . Her mother is typing away at her phone .
"Uh - uh . Girl , I heard all about your head butt with Cheryl at cheer tryouts"
"Ouch" I wince "are you gonna bite my head off as her best friend ?"
"Nah" she coolly dismisses "us girls have got to stick together . And besides" she adds "I'd say anyone brave enough to stand up to Cheryl like that is pretty fierce"
I laugh with her . "Yeah , well"
"Ooh ! High end cupcakes at Pop's ? Do they come with the Veronica Lodge package ?"
She notices the white cupcake box sitting next to my arm on the counter , right with my purse .
"Oh , no" I shake my head . "It's from Bean BeLuca's . Got them sent over"
Josie gasped audibly . "Really ? I love those ! I tried them once when we went to Manhattan to visit my cousin , I still haven't gotten over it"
"I know right ! They are to die for"
"So what's the occasion ? Just missing home feels ?" She takes the seat next to mine now , and mum has already put my to go fries in front of me so I have to leave soon .
"Not quite" I look down into my lap , unsure of what exactly to reply . "I uh .. kind of hurt Betty's feelings over the weekend and was hoping to make it up to her . Not by buying cupcakes of course , but this is just icing on top . Pun intended"
"Ah , I see . Well if I were her , I'd accept the apology without hesitation" her smile is sparkling suddenly , like whatever her and her mother were arguing about before has been forgotten . I can't help but return it just as big , my cheeks almost hurt . She's nice and pretty , unlike me , dressed in comfy cool chic style . There's a total ambiance of grace with her it seems almost unbelievable that something could make her as angry as she was when she walked in . Someone like Josie always seems cool and collected , nothing could get her off guard . Something I aspire to .
"What could you ever do to make pure heart Betty Cooper that mad at you anyway ?"
The question is casual , as she leans her head against her thin wrist on the counter and looks at the cupcakes a little closer . But I don't know what to answer . Again .
"Something against girl code . Which is horrible I know , so I'd better get going and give these to her before first period starts" I gather my things and stand up to leave .
"Good luck" Josie waves her fingers at me . "I'll see you around . I think we have History together actually , and Chem and Bio if I'm not mistaken" she looks up in thought . I laugh . "Okay , see you around"
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I've gone over what to say to Betty in my head at least twelve times so far , since I came up with this plan on Saturday until right now . I'm swallowing my nerves as I walk the halls into the school office , hoping to catch Betty right on time and without failure ( perhaps my plan is going better than I expected ) the timing is quite flawless .
"Who the hell is V ?" I hear Kevin wonder incredulously , a light huff and Betty answers the same time as I step into the office .
"Veronica" we say together . They're both standing by a huge vase of yellow flowers that were spilling over the counter , looking both awed and out of place . Kevin can't quite believe it , Betty just looks pretty bland and unamused - the opposite of what she was this weekend .
"The yellow is for friendship" I start explaining . "I also had Chocolate chip cupcakes flown in from New York . Because as my mum likes to say "there's no wrong the right cupcake can't fix" . Also , I've booked us for hers and hers meni pedis at Chez Salon . Blowouts too"
They look at me kind of like they can't believe it , like they probably need me to repeat it . Betty still has that careful look on her face , though .
"I am so sorry Betty" everything I've wanted to tell her so far and wording it for her to understand slips my brain completely , and that's the only truthful , honest , genuine thing I can get out of my mouth . "I don't know what happened to me that night , it was such a basic bitch move and -"
and I thought I was protecting you . "It was like I was possessed by - "
"Madame Satan ?" Kevin finishes my sentence with his own opinion . I can tell he's a real loyal friend to Betty , which makes me understand why he's being slightly bitter .
"The old me" I rephrase . "And I will never , ever do anything like that to you again . I swear on my mother's pearls . Just - can you please give me one more chance ?"
I don't know what I expect Betty to say . Probably yes , but I've never been in her shoes before . Any guy I've liked has never been enough to break a girlish friendship if one of them did something with him . So maybe she's really in love with Archie , and not only am I trying to get Betty back - I have to start actually try and be a better person . I could just not care , I could .
Being 'good' is easier when you have a real drive , and Betty Cooper gives me that drive . Archie Andrews does . And Kevin , they don't make me want to be better just to change . They make me want to be better because I see it in them , it shines through them and makes me believe for the first time that being good can be interesting and inspiring all the same . They made good look colourful , and appealing . So I stand there and hope she will say yes , even just for the sake of getting out of this situation .
"Okay" Betty finally speaks .
My whole face sparkles with delight . "What ?"
"What ?" Kevin looks at the blonde like she's insane .
"Really ? Awesome ! I'll take it , and you will not regret it" I hope she believes this promise . "And I'll bring these to lunch so we can celebrate !" I notion to the cupcakes .
The bell rings for first period so I leave them alone to get to class , but when I hear Kevin question so seriously why Betty even forgave me - after hearing him saying "why does she say that like she's not wearing pearls too ?" ( it makes me roll my eyes ) - it struck me to stop in my spot and listen . They couldn't know I was still here , and I do want to know myself . Why did Betty forgive me ?
"It's the path of least resistance , Kev" she says almost tiredly . "A week ago Veronica and I weren't friends , next week we'll nod to each other as we pass in the hallway , in two weeks she won't even remember my name and in three she'll have latched to some other girl to destroy"
Right . The absolute crush I feel in my heart is one I can't deny , not for a second . For a second , I get so hurt and mad it makes me wonder why I even tried in the first place . Whenever I go out of my way to be nice to someone , all they'll still me as is a soulless bitch . Perhaps Betty was saying it in the perspective of new kids always moving on to different friend groups , but what I know she means is that I'm just having fun ruining people . Like I can't even see past the fact that she's still in heartbreak and I'm just so boiled in disappointment and pain and anger , I wait exactly for her and Kevin's footsteps by the door before I start walking ahead myself .
They've seen me , and they know I've listened . So I did it on purpose , like I'm doing this to hurt them , like what they view me as .
Why do I even try at all ?
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Mr Dexter is always late to class anyways , always rushing in thirty minutes after class has begun that everyone knows well enough to find some other more entertaining occupation before he arrives . Most students are halfway asleep in the student lounge and Cheryl must be gossiping up a storm somewhere , but today might not be the case , Archie thinks as he leans against his locker . Her brother is undergoing an autopsy right now as Betty had told him her parents were off to sleuth and spill about .
This morning , when he'd opened the door and was met with the sight of bright Betty Cooper he was shocked to say the least . She's forgiven me ? It almost seemed like she's pretending this weekend didn't happen , asking him to walk her to school all cheerful like . Until they were actually on their way , and Betty told him she's trying to process being hurt and separating what she wants to what her mother wants ; which is for Betty and Archie to never speak again . That doesn't surprise him in the least . Mrs Cooper was always nice when they were kids , loving even , baking peanut butter cookies that were Betts' fave and commenting about how fiery and unruly his hair looked .
But even then Fred would say she's a snake in hiding , which Archie never understood . And as they got older , as the drama of Riverdale High's most stupidly forbidden romance of Polly Cooper and Jason Blossom became the centre of her life - Alice Cooper became colder towards Archie too . It was all never letting Betty out too long with him and snide comments here and there . Part of him thinks this is Betty's way of rebelling against her controlling mother , by being his friend despite being hurt by him just to make her mother mad . But he hopes that's not the case .
So he and Betty might be back to normal , or at least trying to be , but it still doesn't feel the same . Especially after what happened with Jason Blossom , seeing he was shot and feeling even more damned now - the gunshot on July Fourth , him and Geraldine on a blanket together
As if on cue , the loudspeaker came alive and Principal Weatherbee's voice came through the whole school speaking of what Archie just couldn't stop thinking about .
"Good morning students . This is your principal speaking . There have been many questions about the upcoming pep rally" fuck , the pep rally Archie had completely spaced on that in between everything happening . Pretty sure the football team has to make some big hurrah and he doesn't even want to ponder that , so he silently wishes , desperately , that the pep rally will be cancelled like everyone's been saying it is .
"So let me state clearly , it is happening , as scheduled" fuck . Archie sighs , he sees its almost thirty minutes into class so her starts making his way over , only to he stopped by the giant glass display of Jason in his football uniform , with all his achievements and frills . Archie stares at it . Was there anything he could've done to save this boy's family from a continued , delayed torture ? "Now , on a less felicitous tone , if you could give your attention to Sheriff Keller"
Kevin's father came on the loudspeaker . "Most of you already know the details , but your classmate Jason Blossom's body was found in Sweetwater River late Saturday night . So as of this weekend , Jason's death is now being ruled a homicide . It is an open and ongoing investigation"
Veronica wipes the countless tears dripping down her cheeks away ineffectually staring back at her crying reflection . She's chosen the east wing bathroom with plumbing issues since the main girls' toilet is most likely being used right then and all she wants is to be alone . After hearing what Betty said , after hearing the truth . She knows it's silly to be upset at Betty's obvious reaction considering what she did . She also hates that just a couple months back , exactly last year even , Veronica was leisurely doing just what Betty said she'd do just for fun . Ruining people . I liked it . Social destruction and manipulation , bullying .
The black tears totally ruining her foundation and eye makeup made this whole day a lost cause , as it already was . But when she heard Sheriff Keller say that Jason's death is a homicide , she thinks he's dead . His sister may be retaliating by throwing the wrong lovers in the closet , but she's still drowning in her own tears . And I'm sitting here , a complete mess , over what one girl said -
Something that's valid after all ? Things could be so much worse Veronica . If you can't see pass this , the road to a better self is one I'll never be able to take .
She wipes the very last tear away and stares at herself differently this time . Not a smile , not a scowl , not torn . Just icy eyes and fierce determination . She puts her makeup back on as well as she can before Mr Dexter should arrive to class , and promises herself this isn't going to ruin her and Betty yet . She thinks , I'll keep trying .
"And may I interject , neither I nor my parents will rest until Jason's death is avenged" Cheryl's high tone voice suddenly came on , surprising everyone momentarily . "And his cold hearted killer is walking the green mile to sit in Old Sparky and fry . I for one have my suspicions . Hashtag Riverdale strong" she finishes .
It's a moment later only that Sheriff Keller comes back on , probably disgruntled by the young girl's sudden and passive aggressively harsh interjection . "If you know anything that could help us find and apprehend Jason's killer , or anything that happened to him on July Fourth , I strongly urge you to come forward immediately ."
Archie finally tears his eyes away from the display long enough before realising his standing right next to Weatherbee's office , and can see everything clearly . He doesn't resist to look a little closer in , not thinking to hide in the least . Archie can see Cheryl standing straight as a board next to Sheriff Keller who's bending down to speak into the mic , with Principal Weatherbee to his left . If you know anything , come forward immediately . He contemplates for a second then remembers his promise , but it doesn't stop him from thinking for a second maybe I could say something in a different way . How could he possibly get his knowledge across to Weatherbee without exposing himself and Grundy ?
Just then the Principal actually turned and looked Archie right in the eye , to which he backed away immediately on instinct . He didn't mean to make it look so suspicious , hoping the man didn't see it as any more than a boy spying in to see this scene . He started walking forced casually down the hall again .
"You can speak to me or Principal Weatherbee . A death like this wounds us all , let's not let Jason down" Sheriff Keller finishes . Veronica takes one deep breath and pushes past the door to go and face her problems , do whatever it takes . Get to class .
"Archie" Jughead calls . The red headed boy looks at his friend and blinks a few times to register his calling him . He doesn't even speak but Jughead continues .
"Weirdest thing . This summer we were supposed to go on a road trip over July Fourth weekend . Which you bailed on , at the last minute . Is there something you wanna tell me , pal ?"
Archie doesn't even know what to think . Yes . The cancelled road trip that causes his thorns with Jughead now , but it's so like him to confront Archie right in the hallway even with what he's insinuating . And of course , it's Jughead who puts two and two together to figure it out before anyone else . He is the one who knows Archie best after all . The lump in his throat feels like its thickening . So much , he feels he might have to throw it up . What even could he say ?
Jughead , standing six feet away raises his dark brow questioningly . His reaction makes it so much worse .
Luckily , Reggie and Moose come bustling bundling down the hallways just like they did this morning , elbowing Jughead aside with more force than necessary . "Come on , Andrews . Dexter's car is in the park lot" they sweep him away much easier than usual , it's the first time Archie is grateful for these chumps to like him enough to be their friend . He can't imagine how horrible it would have been to have no other way out of Jughead's purposeful question .
Still , he and the boys spread out once the get into class and Archie sees Veronica there standing alone . Ah , the girl who's changed everything . He looks at her and feels guilty all over again . They lock eyes . Veronica's are wide and animated , they're chocolate brown and part of her endearing charm . They don't look too long for their friends might notice , but they both think the other must be remembering what Archie had said that night .
Veronica knows she is . His words being not only comforting , but also intimate . Everything about it was intimate , and too vulnerable for her to not be slightly scared by it . You scare me , Archie Andrews . Because I feel I let myself go when I'm with you . And it comes naturally , and I can't pretend that's not how it is .
He hears then that Ginger and Tina are asking Cheryl why she told the police Jason drowned when he was in fact shot , which Archie finds very insensitive to ask somebody who just found out he was murdered as well . Though the Blossom twin may be vicious , Archie knows Cheryl would never kill anybody , especially not her brother . Cheryl is visibly irritated by her friends' not so subtle insinuation and it struck him to go over and help her out .
"Seats everyone ! Pair off , gloves on , scalpels up" Mr Dexter finally comes bursting through the door in a hurry . Everyone starts scrambling to find their best friend and partner up .
"Can I be with Cheryl ?" Archie asks aloud , to which the teacher generally nods at .
"And I wanna be with Betty" Veronica decides . It takes him two seconds to snap his head back to see if he heard correctly , before realising its none of his business . Betty hadn't mentioned smoothing things over with Veronica , but maybe she's just grasping at straws to make things better between them .
"Oh , uh , I was thinking I'd partner with Kevin" Betty nods . She and Kevin look at Veronica somewhat awkwardly - they had been freaking about her hearing them earlier , and she seemed mad earlier , but she doesn't look that bothered now .
"Actually Keller's with me" Moose turns up to the table . "We like , talked" perfect Veronica smiles .
"Oh god" Kevin says to Betty as he gets up and moves to another table with Moose .
"Once again , fate throws us together" the raven haired girl sits down on the stool next to Betty's with a simpering smile .
"Hmm" the blonde purses her lips "or your forceful nature"
"What ?" Veronica raises her brow , not believing what Betty just said .
"You're forcing yourself into everything and anything you want Veronica . Forcing me to invite Archie to the dance and then taking him instead when you felt like it . Buying cupcakes and flowers and a spa trip for my friendship back ?"
"Okay I admit the cupcakes weren't the best idea . But it was a gesture Betty , I thought you'd understand"
She just nodded slowly in reply .
"I thought you forgave me" Veronica said softly . There was silence and rough movement as Betty picked up the knife to dissect the frog in front of them . Her jaw clenched , chin jutted out slightly before she finally just sighed , slumping her shoulders .
"I did . I do . I'm trying Veronica , just - give me some time"
"What did I even do to cause this sudden outburst anyway ?"
Betty glared . "Fine ! I get it"
They worked in silence for a while , until Veronica said that her thirteen year old trying - to - be - vegan self would have fainted at this dissection and Betty had to giggle a little .
"How bout lunch ?"
"Hm ?"
"Lunch , together . Can we do it ? You , me , Kevin - maybe even Archie ? It'll be like before all this madness that I caused happen"
Betty looked at the trying girl for a moment with her pleading eyes and promising tone , she could feel herself soften a little . Maybe it's the nature of Veronica Lodge to make everybody feel drawn into her light , and Betty surely feels it . After all , if she's trying to separate her wants from her mothers ; why not start here ? By being friends with someone she feels warm around .
"Sure" she agrees , ponytail bouncing and pink smile the girlish cheerful aura of Betty Cooper . Veronica does a little squeal and they fall into a comfortable conversation about how Betty thinks Cheryl's choreography is too complex to memorise and Veronica denying her .
"Cheryl , we haven't talked since the summer and I just wanted to say I'm sorry about your brother" Archie tells Cheryl sincerely .
"Jason was the best" she nods . He turns around again slightly and sees Veronica and Betty laughing as they poke and prod with knives and one part of him is glad they're friends again , and the other part has to say Veronica in her clean cut designer dress with blue rubber gloves on is quite entertaining to see . He smiles at them , at her for a second before looking back at his partner .
"If there's anything I can do to help .."
"That's sweet Archie . But unless you were at Sweetwater River and know who shot Jason" she shrugs and looks down a little sadly .
Her words rang in his head . Like the idiot Archie can be sometimes , he froze a little too long and just couldn't get the image of himself at Sweetwater River on July Fourth hearing that gunshot - he felt so bad for keeping a secret when this girl is suffering from uncertainty . He's never seen Cheryl look defeated ever , even in the slightest bit like right now .
"Uh , do the police have any leads ?"
"No , you ghoul" just like that any understanding he had of Cheryl is immediately lost with one line and a disgusted expression on her face . "But it's only a matter of time . And my twintuiton is telling me it's someone we all know"
Archie can't believe she's being so blatant . She has her suspects , after all . "Right" he gulps . "Well I'm not great at science but I can take point on this if it's too weird for you"
"Weird , why ?" Cheryl starts unwrapping the blade and puts on her glove steadily . "Oh , you mean because my brother is being dissected with a blade just like this one , probably at this for a moment ? Don't worry , I'm fine"
She then looks ahead at Ginger and Tina who are obviously whispering something gossipy about her to each other . And she sticks the blade in cold dead frog harshly which makes Archie almost recoil . "In fact ," she twists the blade , eyes on them . "I'm amazing"
After class , Betty ran out to meet their English teacher who had good news on her extra assignment so Veronica waited outside the bio lab for Archie to appear . She wanted to talk to him , not for any motive other than to tell him that whatever it is attraction they feel towards each other has to be blocked because her and Betty have sort things out . In her life , Veronica knows having a good girl friend is so much more important than boys who'll screw you over and leave you addicted - she tells herself this case can't be any different , as much as she doesn't want to believe it .
Dozens of students pile out but Archie is still stuck talking to a shaken looking Cheryl , he seemingly trying to condole her . She taps her foot and thinks how much longer , I have to do this before Betty gets back , but then Kevin stands up from his seat next to Moose and practically flew out of the lab .
"Ohmygod" he grabs Veronica's arm tenderly as he passes her and leads her away , sounding and looking very exasperated . "What ?" She half whines , looking back to see Archie just getting up from his seat now . Damn it .
Kevin is way too wound up about this thing with Moose although he won't start talking until Betty's there too , so she has no choice but to walk ahead and follow him . "Before we meet Betty, I just wanted to say Veronica .. I'm really sorry for how I was acting . I get the whole trying to reform thing is hard , and I guess it's just my screwed up loyal levels that made me practically despise you for it . But after seeing you make an effort , I think you're very different Veronica . Good different . And I can't tell you how sorry I am"
The girl smiles warmly . "Of course . To new beginnings ?" She cocks an eyebrow . "For sure" Kevin pulls her in for a hug . "No one can discuss the trends of fashion and trashy reality shows better than you !" Veronica giggles and they walk arm in arm to the English room .
"There you are !" Kevin called to Betty who came out of the class grinning . "Hey !"
"What's that ?" Veronica sing songs , referring to Betty's big brown envelope . "It's a thank you letter from the Golden Orchid essay competition . They said they loved my work !"
Veronica raises a brow . "Impressive"
"More academic bling for Betty" Kevin rolls his eyes amiably
"Okay okay" the blonde looks down shyly with a grin "let's get lunch and find Archie"
"So what did Moose want ?" Veronica asks once they're finally walking through the courtyard with lunch .
"Oh my god , I don't even think he knows . I mean , I am devastatingly handsome in that classic pre - accident Montgomery Clift kind of way , and sexuality is fluid . But can someone named Moose really be that fluid ?"
The girls laugh . "You know his full given name is Marmaduke right ?" Betty informs
"What ?" Veronica gasps . "No ." She chuckles in response . "Yeah , you'd be surprised no one here goes by their full names"
"Okay , well I ship it" Veronica brings back the subject at hand .
"Well of course you would . You're a big city girl with loose morals"
"- I just mean that Moose has an official girlfriend , Midge" he clarifies , seeing both girls' awkward reaction . "Anyways , it's terrible to say but I wish he would just stay in the darn closet"
The trio arrived at a table , where Archie Andrews sat playing the guitar concentratedly . He looked up at them upon hearing Kevin say that . Again , Veronica just wanted to face palm hard .
"Obviously , I didn't mean literal closet" Kevin curses himself . To break the tension and without invitation , Veronica sits down and changes the subject rapidly .
"Archie ! Any new material you wanna try on a very forgiving audience ?"
Archie is taken off guard . Oh god no . Playing in front of Veronica ? After the lyrics that were .. inspired by our kiss together ? She might hate it . She might notice . Especially not in front of Betty, that would feel so wrong ..
"Please ?" Veronica darts her eyes to Betty tellingly , which makes Archie realise how weird it is to see her after what they shared . He looks at her and remembers how it felt to envelope her bee stung lips , he's seen more than what her dress is covering and Veronica's hard breathing and touching and her soft , smooth skin … it's almost like he can't tear his eyes away from her now . What would it be like to have more ? He can't help but wonder , even if it is just to kiss her again .. to feel her again , their warmth colliding , the static frenzy he got when she's kissing so hard . He can't help but wonder about her .
"Would you ?" Betty sets her tray down , her familiar smile sending some guilt down his spine . "I'd love to hear it"
Ahh , he hesitates but Betty is so willing to move on and accept this and he can't imagine hurting her further . "I'm still working on the lyrics so , okay"
He braces himself . He starts strumming the first chords , Kevin sits back and marvels how much Archie has changed . Veronica is enamoured and so focused on the words his put in his song , but Betty suddenly can't breathe .
Honey come on , turn the radio on
And we'll dance , dance , dance for the rest of the night
I'm not ready to go
He's singing a different one than what came to his mind last night , this does seems safer and one more practiced . Betty doesn't know what it is , maybe that he outrightly rejected her while they were dancing that night , and again after that , and she thinks it's tragic there won't ever be a night like that with Archie . The radio on , dancing . It hurts too much and burns the same , so when tears prickle in her blue eyes as she watches the boy she loves sing about someone else it's no surprise .
He finishes on some not so correct note as the song is not done yet , but Veronica and Kevin clap for his stellar performance . It feels good when he hears her clapping too , a brief look in her eyes and he sees this joy surrounding it . Twinkling , clear , when she smiles like that it lights up her entire face . And it's making him react by smiling too . There's no stopping himself , when Veronica Lodge looks so bright and lovely .
That is until he notices Betty sitting too stiff ; even for Betty who never slumps . All thought , or lack thereof when in the haze of Veronica is stopped when he sees the overt darkness that has taken on her face . Her lips tremble .
"Betty , are you okay ?"
Veronica and Kevin look over too , much surprised to see her on the verge of snapping . Of course . My suggestion for him to play makes her freaking cry . I really can't help ruining everything can I ?
"I'm supposed to say 'yes' ." She breathes , voice a little squeaked "that's what the nice girl always says but no I'm not ! I want to be , I thought I could be - but it's too much too fast"
and then the next thing she's up from the table and walking away too fast for them to stop her .
"Betty !" Archie rushes to his feet and leaves the guitar behind forgotten .
Veronica calls after her too , though the two of them are already ten feet away and Kevin stops her. He holds her wrist as she tries to get up , and the two look into each other's eyes .
"Don't . Let him go after her"
"You think that's going to help ? It's not like anything he says will get her what she wants now !"
"I know that you going after her too is gonna suffocate her . Let them work it out , give her space"
Her stubborn nature is tugging on to go anyway , but she decides these instincts have gotten her in more mess anyway . So she sits back down , but then decides not to . Because she needs some space too , to be quite honest .
And then Kevin Keller was left sitting alone at the lunch table , one aristocrat stomping quite furiously back into the main building while the boy next door runs after his heart broken best friend .
"Betty ! Betty wait ! Come on listen to me"
"No !" She yanks her arm back furiously because why bother trying to hide it anymore ?
"No when I think of where I feel safest and most myself I think of us , in a booth at Pop's"
"Me too !"
"But that's not true anymore !" She cries "I thought I could pretend this weekend didn't happen , but 'I can't give you the answer you want' that's what you said to me . And that's how I feel right now , I'm sorry"
"Betty -" the look on her face before she takes off running is more than enough to break his heart , but then Principal Weatherbee is walking up to him steadily and Betty is already so far gone .
"Mr Andrews" he calls . Archie watches Betty's tall figure disappear between crowds and the doorways . "If we could have a word in private ? Mr Andrews ?"
Safest and most myself . That's what he is to Betty . She says it without hesitation , she doesn't even need to think . And that's when Archie realises he can't say the same . He knows what it feels like to be lost sometimes , and if Betty has found that place in him why can't he find her too ? Where is it that he feels safest and most myself , he asks himself and the fact that there is no answer rings the fear and terror inside his head .
"Uh , uh yes"
"You're in a very good place right now Mr Andrews" the older man looks at him through rimless glasses and this so unpredictable , unreadable energy about him . "Varsity football , AP music tutorials" why is he choosing now to list all my achievements ?"This morning in the hallway you wouldn't meet my eyes . Why ?"
Really ? really ? Because this is the second time today someone has asked him pertaining to that they think might have something to do with Jason Blossom .
"I was distracted . I wasn't feeling well" he reasons uselessly , not thinking much .
"Archie if there's something you want to get off your chest , perhaps about Jason , now would be the time"
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Veronica is going nowhere when she walks . It's just some aimless pacing that leads her to a crossroads between the stairs to the girls' main bathroom or the indoor cafeteria . Not the toilets , she decides seeming as it wasn't the best place for her earlier . Being around people will help her calm down without needing to cry like a baby .
When Veronica sits down at an empty table she's relieved that in this time of the year almost everybody prefers to dine outside . So she needn't worry about someone like Reggie or Cheryl who might make it a big deal that she's sitting , god forbid , alone during lunch . She drops all her things down on the table when she feels her head spinning . It's like a tornado for a minute , when the seat next to hers moves with someone sitting down on it .
Veronica looks up , and it's Josie . She sighs relievedly . "Hey girl" Josie greets casually . "See your cupcake thing didn't quite work out"
"No" she rests her chin in her palm , not meeting the other girls' eyes . They were quiet for a little bit . Not awkward , not suffocating either . Instead it felt like Josie somewhat understood her . Betty hadn't been mad at Veronica during lunch , she just stormed away from Archie . But it still hurt all the same .
"You can have it you know"
"Hm ?"
"The cupcakes . I'm taking one since Betty will not have these . And I'll eat all if you don't want it , I need all the comfort food I can get"
"Oh" Josie laughs "well I didn't peg you for an emotional eater"
"I'm not . But Bean BeLuca's is enough to tempt me" she says expressionless while unwrapping once cupcake .
"Don't mind if I do" Josie shrugs , taking the other . "This isn't bad , right ? That I'm eating what's supposed to be her gift ?" Veronica asks .
Josie wipes some icing off her top lip with a napkin . "Nah , after all . Wanna know a secret ?"
"What ?" Veronica huffs . What other secret . "Betty isn't a fan of chocolate chip ."
"Are you serious ?" The pearl wearing girl sounds scandalised .
"Fact . When we were ten at my birthday party I remember specifically keep trying to give her a slice . And what do you know ? Little Betty Cooper just wouldn't have it . She kept making different excuses and I was like , what's the matter ? Then for her birthday , I was looking to see what cake she had but Mrs Cooper just made a butter cake . But then this Jughead boy got her a peanut butter cookie jar and she loved it . And weirdest thing , I so distinctly remember this sticking out for some reason out of my childhood memories that every year I would remember to see if he got it for her again . And he always did ! It's so funny . I think I figured it out after that"
"Wow" Veronica widens her eyes . She wonders for a moment what all the teens she knows today , were like growing up together as children . And she didn't catch the name of whoever this peanut butter boy is but that didn't really matter .
"She's kinda crazy for that though"
"I agree ! Chocolate chip is a never go wrong staple"
When they finish devouring these cupcakes , one each and one shared , Josie looks at the time on her phone and rises . "I have to meet the girls for a quick meeting about wether or not we'll have a performance at this pep rally"
"Sure" Veronica nods "thanks for accompanying me through this guilt trip"
"No problem you heart breaker" she jokes , without knowing how closely true that is . "Hey , do you wanna hang out today after school ? Maybe go to the mall or ?"
"I wish I could" Veronica says apologetically . Shopping with a girl who obviously has an eclectic sense of style sounds so much fun right now , but she can't . "I have a river vixens practise after school today" she rolled her eyes a little .
Josie laughed . "Okay then ! Maybe next time"
"Next time for sure . Please rain check it"
"Definitely . See you around Veronica" Josie waves and walks away with her air of confidence and sophistication . They had that similarity , funnily enough .
oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
Weatherbee just asked me if I know anything about Jason" Archie blurts out . Completely out of breath , completely cluelessas to what to even think of the situation . It's kind of like when your body goes into hyper shock and nothing feels or acts the same , his whole body is covered in a sheen of sweat much like last night when he'd been unable to sleep . With everything on his mind , Jason , Veronica , Betty and even Jughead . He'd known it was a bad decision to even go to Geraldine's house but of all the problems at hand , that one seemed to be the only one he could fix .
"And ? What did you say ?" Geraldine puts down her instrument and quickly stands up . She's obviously nervous - if it weren't for Archie Andrews barging into the music room like this during school hours .
"Nothing . That I don't . But he said if I did , I shouldn't be scared .. he'll make sure I'm okay" he adds
"Of course he would you're his student !" Archie feels the guilt seep back into him . That same guilt , from so many nights of summer . While he and Geraldine might not be seeing each other anymore , this fierce connection to someone who he shares a deep broiling secret with and also one that could potentially hurt them both if exposed , is not too different from the connection he had during summer .
"Is this how you feel about me ?" He asks . Once and for all , point blank . "Because if it's not then I don't know what I'm protecting"
Her eyes look away for one second . He can't say anything he's so afraid , that everything could just come tumbling down . She said it herself , you could get expelled - we could go to jail . But also the sound of Cheryl's voice when she talks about Jason , that same voice Betty had when she told him safest and most myself . Maybe that's what I want . Jason was Cheryl's safe , the one who knew her true self . And was that Geraldine for him ? She sure understood his music dreams . But there isn't much else other than sex and now this secret . And if Archie's quite honest he feels furthest from safe when he's with her , especially when he's with her .
"It is" she finally says . Her finger brushes against his , feather light . Archie doesn't know what to say . "It's real" she whispers
"Maybe it's not right , but it's real . Which is why you can't go to Weatherbee . If you do , we'll never see each other again . Archie , I'm putting myself in your hands" her voice is barely even loud enough to be heard , but she's standing so close its all he hears . Archie hasn't moved from when he first walked into the room , but Geraldine has come so close she's practically standing against Archie . And the way her jaw is aligned against his and this rapid beating of his heart and how unsure he is , okay . She cares about me . She says it's real . Maybe I just don't know it yet .
And Jughead Jones has to do a reverse , a double take , then full on stare . When he sees his best friend , Archie Andrews in a much too intimate embrace with his music teacher Miss Grundy.
oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
"L - E - T -S - G - O ! Let's go , let's go and get it !"
"Stand down Vixens" Cheryl interjects . Almost everybody sighs . They're sweaty and spent but their captain won't stop obsessing over every little detail .
"And listen up . The weather's predicting a downpour the night of the rally but you're already raining on my parade" she rounds each girl up "with Jason so present in our collective consciousness , all eyes will be on me"
Veronica can't help but roll her eyes . So does Betty . Yes , they feel sorry for the girl . But it's starting to feel like everything in this school is becoming Jason - centric .
"Will this beautiful , exotic , hothouse flower drown under the town's scrutiny or be swamped by her emotions ? The answer is no and no . That said , I need star power" she stops a beat , everyone staring at her . "I need the Pussycats" she decides .
Guess they are gonna perform at the pep rally , Veronica thinks .
"Stay loose and limber ladies , while I make a call"
After Betty's meltdown she's been acting strange and distant the whole rest of the day . With Veronica and Kevin keep trying to reach out to her unsuccessfully , no doubt . The morose blonde had her head down and in the books every class , zipping out to her locker and just answering one liners to questions Veronica would ask . She didn't really know what happened , but she knows Betty shouldn't be mad at her either .
"After this practice I'll totally need a pedicure . You ?" The raven haired girl asks while stretching her hamstrings on the floor next to Betty . She did book one for them after all .
"I'll have homework" she replies softly .
"I know everyone grieves differently , but Cheryl's hosting a pep rally to cope with her loss . That's either psychotic or brilliant , or , both"
"Yeah , well at least Cheryl's not putting on act . Pretending to be a butterfly when she's really a wasp"
Woah . Where did that one come from ?
Veronica raised her brow challengingly . "For the record , the only reason I went in that closet with Archie is so that Cheryl . wouldn't ."
"Oh so you did it to protect me ?" Betty counters
"Damn straight"
"Okay , so nothing happened between you and Archie in that closet then ?"
The other girl is lost for words , naturally . Yes - something did happen , and it's been bugging at her all weekend how hot and seismic everything about being with him was . Like complete contentment , but she couldn't tell Betty that now . Instead , Veronica just crossed her arms somewhat dismissively .
"Yeah that's what I thought" Betty throws her hands up . "You know , Archie and I were fine before you got here"
Is she for real ? Is she seriously blaming me for something I had absolutely no fault over ? Really , you're going to blame ME ?
"If by 'fine' you mean he was oblivious and you were pining over him in silent desperation -"
"We were friends at least" Betty reasons
"You were walking on emotional eggshells around him , scared to tell the truth" Veronica says outrightly , something even Betty is afraid to admit .
"Okay - you don't know me"
"It is not my fault he doesn't like you !" Veronica finally snaps . She's tired of this stupid cliched contention over some boy who doesn't even have the guts to tell either of them any of what he's feeling . And for what it's worth , Veronica's words are true .
"If that's what you're thinking" she sighs in clarification "it's not anyone's fault it's not even stupid Archie's . It's just how it is , most of the time . The people we like , don't like us back . Romeo and Juliet are the exception , not the rule" she tries to get Betty to understand . The blonde is silent for words .
"Look , never speak to me again if that's what you want , I'll accept that . But what exactly , did Archie do wrong ?" If I can't save our friendship might as well try and save theirs , right ?
"Are you seriously taking his side ?
"No , I'm not -"
"And this is your way of being friends with me again ?"
"The Pussycats are in ladies !" Cheryl announces , bringing them out of argument . Until she notices Betty and Veronica's very heated discussion that now has both looking pissed off and unsatisfied . "- oh sorry ladies am I , interrupting something ?"
Oh no Cheryl you do NOT need to get in on this . "As a matter of fact -"
"No you're not" Betty smiles "Actually , I was going to come find you Cheryl . I have a gift certificate for hers - and - hers meni pedis and blow outs at Chez Salon . Do you want to come with me ?"
"Don't do this" Veronica shakes her head . Because seriously , this would be the last straw today with Betty and her moods effecting her .
"Butt out , closet monster . You have forfeited your right to take the high and mighty road" Cheryl widens her eyes exaggeratedly so much so that it really makes Veronica want to slap the bullshits out of both of them , at the same time . Who seriously takes someone's sorry gift and uses it with someone else ? And it was Cheryl's fault to begin with !
"As pour moi , Betty . But of course . I never turn down a pedi , and I was just about to suggest the same thing"
Betty and Cheryl , like the sky and the earth , walk hand in hand together away from Veronica ceremoniously . Betty has the smuggest look on her face as she does it too , needless to say Cheryl . And while she could be hurt , which she is - she chooses not to be . Veronica Lodge takes a deep breath and watches them leave together .
Oh really , Betty ? So you wanna play that game , then ?
tbc
Hey guys . Sorry about the longer wait , kind of lost motivation . Please review this ( I know I do this for myself despite the reviews , but it is disheartening when you work hard and don't get much outcome and that effects how fast these chapters go up to ) but anyways , love you guys x