Townsville High
~I actually want to cry at how bad my last chapter was. But I'm back, hoping that this one will be alright. Sorry for the wait, but I'll explain down there V~
Chapter 50 - Growing Up
Last Chapter - Blossom began to worry at how close graduation was. It became clear that Boomer is indeed hiding something. Brody and Maxine got back together. Mitch started his second first day at Townsville High. And Buttercup helped Tyler get back into reality.
AUTHOR'S NOTE; Okay, if you're wondering why the long wait, I'll give you all a little insight. I'm in the middle of planning a brand new story. It won't interfere with updating this story, don't worry! The new story will be about boarding school. That's all I'll give away right now, but I'll say that I have it all planned out so it will run a lot smoother than this story haha! Thanks for reading.
I just want to thank a couple of people; Meleexx (BcXBu), Purplebloom, Pink Powerpuff Blossom, tomboygreengurl, Kimberly Klare, Jeannette, River Wolfigrl, Rarity01.
ANOTHER AN; All you Powerpuff Lovers out there! I strongly suggest you go over to 'Meleexx'-s page and read her story! She has just started out but she already has it all written. All she needs to do is translate the chapters into english. She is an outstanding writer, better than myself! So get over there and read her story please! :)
On to the story..
"For in every adult there dwells the child that was, and in every child there lies the adult that will be." - John Connolly, The Book of Lost Things
Buttercup stared blankly at the book in her hand. She had re-read it over five times and wasn't sure why she was still reading it. The book was given to her by her guidance counselor, Mrs Clark, at school the day before. Mrs Clark had spoken to her about her options. College, job, work experience. There was so many options of what she could be and what she could do when she finally left school in the upcoming months, but Buttercup's mind was at a firm blank.
She had always had one plan in mind. Graduate from school, become a world-famous female boxer, and finally travel the world to earn the adventure that she so desperately craved. But all of that seemed like a dream now. She could become a boxer if she wanted, she just had to train harder than ever before and get in touch with Mr Kelly, the scout from the training centre.
But that's when her mind went all fuzzy. She had everything that she wanted in Townsville. The thought of leaving Townsville after graduation - which was once a hope - now seemed like a chore. She didn't want to leave her sisters behind, she didn't want to leave Maxine and Brody to take after a kid by themselves, and most importantly, she didn't want to have to deal with not seeing Butch every day.
For the first time in a long time, Buttercup was stuck.
She had two choices. Leave Townsville after graduation, which wasn't as far away as she had thought, or stay here with her family and friends, and continue to live the life she had settled so happily in to. Buttercup wasn't even sure how to begin weighing out the pro's and con's of leaving Townsville. Both lists would be pages long.
Throwing her book at the wall, Buttercup let out a frustrated groan before spinning on her heel and marching out of her bedroom.
She began to make her way downstairs and the strong smell of pancakes made her mouth water. She followed the heavenly scent until she was stood firmly at the door of the living room. She spotted both of her sisters sitting on the couch. They were both ready for school, and digging into stacks of pancakes.
"Good morning," Blossom spoke lightly. "What took you so long to come down?"
Buttercup stepped inside and pursed her lips. She contemplated telling her sisters about how she had spent the last sixteen minutes staring blankly at a book entitled, "What comes next?" But that would lead to an entire conversation about what actually does come next for the group.
Eventually, Buttercup decided against revealing anything.
The dark-haired girl shrugged. "Just took a while getting ready. Pass me some pancakes."
Blossom smiled at Buttercup before passing her a plate filled with delicious pancakes, topped with blueberries, Buttercup's all-time favorite. Buttercup took a seat on the floor opposite from her sisters and began cutting into her breakfast with the fork sitting beside her plate.
"So, what were you and Ty talking about yesterday?" Blossom's quizzical gaze fell on Buttercup. "Looked intense." She took a small bite of her pancake and watched Buttercup with curiosity filled in her bright pink eyes. Bubbles turned to look at Buttercup also, tensing up slightly at the mention of her ex boyfriend's name.
Buttercup ran a hand through her silky hair. "Not much. He just needed a little heart-to-heart. Not usually my thing, but Ty's one of my best friends. He's alright now though. I think I managed to talk some sence into the idiot and get him to start talking to all of us again."
Bubbles pursed her lips uncontrollably. Although she was in shock that Buttercup did something so selfless and kind, she was more uncomfortable than surprised. It had been a couple days since her little talk with Tyler and she was still feeling the guilt from her own cruelty. All of the stress was getting to her, and she just needed to remember who she was. Telling someone she used to somewhat be head-over-heels in love with that he meant nothing to her, that wasn't who Bubbles was.
"Well, good work. Hopefully he can just apologize to Brody about their fight at school and there will once again be peace in the world." Blossom said somewhat sarcastically. Buttercup returned the grin that Blossom was sporting before taking another large bite of her pancakes.
"I hope so," Buttercup replied. "I'm going to call Mitch and see if he's up for giving me a lift to school." She announced before rising to her feet and walking away without another word.
Bubbles raised her eyebrow as she watched Buttercup leave.
"Do you think that Buttercup is acting a little strange this morning?"
"Maybe." Blossom said in confusion.
The read-head bit her lower lip and tried to think of why Buttercup was acting funny, but just like her sister, her mind had hit a blank. Blossom simply shrugged the thoughts off before finishing her breakfast in silence.
Mitch's POV
Staring myself in the mirror, I tugged at the end of my white buttoned-up shirt.
I could hear the builders downstairs. They were once again installing appliances in the kitchen. I wasn't even sure how many times my mother had decided she wanted to change the kitchen to make it look better. That's one thing about her, she's such a perfectionist. Nothing is ever right. Everything has to be perfect. I don't see how my brothers put up with her when I'm out with Buttercup and having a laugh.
I guess I can't stay too mad at her though. She is my mother after all. Plus, I have to admit, the house is going to look amazing when it's finally finished. I'll be having house parties every weekend, just so long as my brother's arent in. They would probably complain about how unresponsive I am. That's the unlucky part of having two older brothers.
"Can you believe her?" A deep voice asked from the door.
I turned to look at who was in my room and saw the grinning face of my eighteen year old brother, Freddie. He was in that horrendous black suit jacket that I always make fun of. What kind of person would wear a suit jacket with a white muscle shirt and jeans? He has no style. It's hilarious, acctually.
"She's our mother, Freds, we have to put up with her." I said, followed by a low chuckle.
Freddie rolled his eyes, keeping the silly grin on his face. He strolled over to me and stopped to check himself out in the mirror. I know Buttercup has said before that I'm full off myself, but my brother is worse. Freddie thinks he's God's gift. I might be a little vain about my appearance but Freddie takes it to a whole other level.
"Are you going out tonight?" Freddie asked distantly.
I shrugged. "Probably. Buttercup might want to do something after school."
Saying her name brought the boyish grin back to Freddie's face. I almost forgot that Buttercup used to know of Freddie back when we were kids. He was the only brother out of all three of my brothers that she had met. They got along alright, but before they really got to be friends, she had moved away. Luckily for me, Freddie is finished with high school and isn't going to try to get into her good books. It would be a shame to see his 'pretty' face messed up by Butch.
"Speaking of hot girls," Freddie started. "Have you got your eye on anyone, little brother?"
I held my lips in a tight line, not wanting to reveal any information. Freddie always tries to take me out on the 'pull' with him. He's always saying that we should be going out to clubs and meeting girls, because it's what brother's do, but I don't think I need Freddie weighing me down. Sure, tons of girls worship the ground he walks on but Freddie's only ever interested in a short and fun relationship. I like to think for the big picture.
"There is this one girl that I kissed, but it's not going anywhere." I said reluctantly, watching as Freddie's eyes filled with amusement. He let out a low chuckle and crossed his arms over his chest.
"Mitchelson's never give up. If you like this chick, nothing should stand in your way."
I sighed in sheer frustration. "First of all, she's not single at the moment. Second, I didn't say anything about liking Maxine."
"Maxine, huh? Cute name." Freddie said with a cocky grin before turning away to check out his appearance in the mirror again. I rolled my eyes before looking back into the mirror as well.
It's not like I don't find Maxine attractive. She's awesome, and funny, and pretty strange, which is a good thing. Normal is boring. But she's with Brody again. He's a decent guy, and there's also the fact that they're having a kid together. Any chance I had with Maxine Slater is shot to hell. Not that I'd want a chance with her anyway. This town is filled with girls, and I can have my pick, so long as Freddie doesn't get there first.
"When do you think the house will finally be done?" I asked casually.
"The kitchen has been changed six times, so who knows. You'd think that by now she would have found a look that she likes."
I shrugged at Freddie before snatching my hair-brush from the cabinet beside my mirror. I carefully brushed my hair, wincing at the tugs that I didn't know were there. Freddie continued to fix his own dark brunette hair with his hands. I never realised it before but Freddie and I are so much alike. He's really strait-forward and down-to-earth, just like I am.
Our two other brothers, that's a whole different story.
"Mitch, will you please tell our mother that the living room looks fine!" I heard Nick's voice getting louder as he made his way to my room. I groaned and rolled my eyes whilst Freddie simply chuckled loudly beside me.
Seconds later, Nick was standing by the door, his eyes ablaze in frustration. He looked at me expectantly, hoping for some help. Nick always seems to think that I'm our mother's favourite, whilst I think that he is considering he's the oldest. Nick is twenty years old, has a job as a shelf-stacker, and is mainly the bread-winner of the house. While Freddie and I, and our younger brother Matthew, usually spend more money than we make.
"Ask Freddie to do it." I said before fixing my belt around my dark blue jeans.
Freddie instantly tore his gaze away from his own reflection and narrowed his coffee coloured brown eyes at me. I flashed him a wicked grin before pushing past him to get out of the door. Just as I was about to leave my room, Nick stood in front of me with his arms crossed and his lips pursed. I stared him down, waiting for him to break the silence.
"If you don't talk to her, she's going to redo the living room and we're all screwed. You know how she gets, Mitch, she won't stop redecorating until we're broke and living in a very fashionable box on the side of the road." Nick said urgently, all the while keeping his tone serene.
I let out a low sigh and shrugged before pushing past him to get downstairs. I could already hear my mother yelling at the builders. She's a real piece of work. One day, she's all calm and happy, the next she's insane. She reminds me of Buttercup to be honest.
The second I saw my mother, a wide smile appeared on her face.
"Mitchel, what do you think about this colour for the kitchen?" My mother, or Sandy Mitchelson as others would say, asked me while practically shoving colour samples into my face. I glanced down at the bit of card. It was coloured a horrible brown colour that made me want to throw up.
I looked back up and swallowed the lump in my throat. "Uh..yeah, you pick whatever you want, mom. By the way, great job on the living room, it looks awesome." I said with fake glee.
"Really? I think it looks kind of plain.." Mother trailed off, her hand on her chin and her eyes off in a daze.
"No!" I said quickly, shaking my hands for effect. "It's perfect. Honestly."
She took a quick glance around the living room before nodding and giving me a small smile. She muttered a "Have a good day at school," before running off to check on the builders. I sighed in relief before turning around, finding Nick and Freddie standing there, grinning at me.
"Good job, little brother. Have fun at school." Nick said, running a hand through his sandy blonde hair.
"Not likely." I muttered before grabbing my school-bag from the couch.
Freddie sent an uneasy smirk my way. "Tell Buttercup I said hello."
"She hasn't seen you since we were kids, Freds, I doubt she still remembers you."
"She remembered you."
"Yeah, cause I'm awesome," I shot back with a boyish grin on my face. "See you tonight, don't wait up."
With that said, I swung the strap of my school bag over my right shoulder and walked out the front door - leaving my brothers to deal with my mother. The sunshine hit my face instantly and I grinned. It was the perfect morning. Just as I was heading to my car, the sound of my phone buzzing stopped me.
I reached into the tight pocket of my skin-tight jeans and snatched my phone out quickly. Buttercup's name flashed across the screen. I smiled slightly before accepting the call.
"Good morning, Lovely." I spoke cheerfully. I swear, I could practically feel Buttercup rolling her eyes right then. She never was a morning person.
"Get over to my house, you're giving me a lift to school." Her voice demanded on the other end of the line.
I smirked. "Surely Butch wouldn't mind taking you to school."
"You caught me," She moaned. "I just wanted to spent some time with my best friend whom has only recently strolled back into my life. Do you have a problem with that, Mitchelson?"
"Of course not. Fancy grabbing a coffee before school? I don't think they'll mind if we're just a bit late."
Buttercup chuckled. "Good idea. See you soon, Mitch."
The next thing, I heard the monotone buzz of the phone. I let out a soft chuckle before stashing my phone into my bag - it's much easier to get into than my jean pockets. Before closing the bag, I digged around and found my car keys.
Buttercup is obsessed with my car. I got it not that long ago. It was a birthday present from Nick for my 17th birthday. How he got the cash for a Mercedes-Benz C-Class, I'll never know. I never questioned it though. Having a gorgeous black sports car the second I get my drivers licence, who would care how the giver got it? Not me, anyway.
I opened the door and hopped into the drivers seat, keeping the hood down to enjoy the rays of sun. It wasn't exactly rare for sun to shine in Townsville, but it didn't mean that I couldn't enjoy it anyway.
Checking the time, I pursed my lips. Surely being late on your first week back at school wouldn't be a smart choice, but I need coffee desperately. Plus, if school called home, mother would be so busy arguing with the builders that either Nick or Freddie would get the call and would hopefully cover for me.
I reached forward to turn the radio on and grinned widely, thinking about how amazing it is to be back in Townsville. Now that I'm back, I couldn't even dream of leaving. But that also means I have to find a job. Graduation is soon, and I refuse to let Nick talk me into working with him as a shelf-stacker.
Mitch Mitchelson does not stack shelves. Mitch Mitchelson should also learn to stop talking in the third-person.
Brick checked his watch. 7:35. Only twenty-five more minutes until school started.
"Damn it," Brick cursed as he ran downstairs. "Butch! I'm borrowing your car!"
He ran into the living room to find his brothers on their feet, dressed and ready for school. This was a rarity. Usually both Brick and Boomer had to leave without Butch considering how long it would take him to get ready. He never was the most organised. Butch turned to look at his brother. His eyes showed amusement at Brick's stressed demeanor.
"Why can't you take your own car to school?" Butch questioned.
"It's in the shop. One of the tires fucked up - do not ask me how. Can I borrow your car or not?"
Butch shrugged. "Sure. But aren't you supposed to be picking up Blossom? You know she'll kill you if she's late."
"That is the whole point of me needing your car," Brick said frustrated. "You can ride with Boomer."
Brick didn't leave Butch any time to object before snatching Butch's car keys from his palm and rushing towards the door. He quickly grabbed the flashy snap-back hat that Blossom had given him to hide the mess his hair was in this morning. He had woken up late - which was also very rare. If he didn't get to Blossom's soon, then she would either yell at him or get Buttercup to literally 'tear him a new one'. That thought made Brick extremely nervous. No one wanted to be on the end of Buttercup Utonium's wrath.
He made his way to Butch's dark green Skoda Rapid. It was a beautiful car that often had Buttercup gushing. Of course, most cars left Buttercup star-struck, but Butch's and of course, Mitch's, were always her favourites. Brick quickly got inside the car and began to drive as fast as he could without getting a speeding ticket.
He knew it wouldn't take that long to get to Blossom's considering how close his house was to her's, but he was still trying to get there quickly. He took another glance at the gorgeous black Armani Exchange watch on his wrist. 7:40. Shit, Brick thought out loud.
A minute passed, and luckily, Brick could see Blossom's house. She had asked him to give her a ride to school this morning, mainly just to spend time with him. They didn't get much alone time, and Blossom wanted as much alone time as possible with her wonderful boyfriend. Of course, Brick wasn't complaining.
Then he saw her - looking as amazing as always.
Blossom's hair was up in a tight bun. She usually wore it down, so this was a pleasant surprise. She was wearing an expensive-looking pink dress that wasn't very flashy or frilly, but wasn't exactly plain either. A tight white looped belt was around her waist that matched with the flat white shoes she was wearing.
Expecting the worst, Brick stopped the car and braced himself, but Blossom simply smiled. She got into the passengers seat and leaned over to place a chaste kiss on his cheek. Brick furrowed his brows and for the third time, checked his watch. 7:43. Where is the argument, he wondered.
"Good morning." Blossom spoke cheerfully.
Brick held back a sigh of relief. "Hey, Bloss. You look nice." He observed, causing a faint rosy blush to spread over Blossom's cheeks. Even the slightest compliment from Brick could still make her blush like a little school-girl.
"I missed you last night," Blossom said, putting on a sweet pout. "What were you doing?"
"Homework." Brick replied while mirroring her expression. Blossom tried not to giggle at his pout but it was inevitable. He looked so darn cute. Brick chuckled at himself before turning back to look at the road. He started driving, watching out for the lights to change.
Blossom began to search around in her bag to check if she had everything she needed for school. Brick glanced at her and smiled widely. She was such a perfectionist something. Brick and Bubbles once joked that Blossom had Obsessive compulsive disorder. Blossom was not amused.
"Damn." Blossom said quietly.
Being who she was, Blossom rarely cursed. This was in fact around the sixth time she had cursed in all of her life. Brick seemed entertained by this and turned his attention to her. Blossom groaned as she closed her bag and crossed her arms.
"Everything alright?"
"No, my English book has been missing for the past week. I've looked everywhere. Is it at yours?"
"No, but it might be in here. You might have dropped it that time Butch gave you a ride last week."
"Oh, yeah!" Blossom exclaimed. She turned around to look at the back seats and scanned for her small red book. Brick also looked about, careful not to lose track of the road. Blossom pouted again as she realised that her book was not in eye-sight.
Blossom looked at the small black glove compartment with hope in her eyes. She prayed that Butch had found her book in the car and put it in there for safe-keeping..or he kept it so he could steal her notes for the next test. That seemed more plausible.
When Blossom opened the glove compartment, she was pleased to see her book.
She reached out and grabbed the book, smiling like a child come Christmas morning. That smile soon faltered when she saw what else was in the glove compartment. Brick's eyes cowered slightly as he watched Blossom take out the picture that was sitting inside.
It was her.
Blossom frowned as she studied the picture, from the spiked black hair, the red hat, and the brunette in the middle. It was a picture of Butch and Brick, with the gorgeous ex girlfriend of Brick's in the middle of them. Cordelia. She had her arms around both Brick and Butch, a big dopey grin on her face. The boys looked rather happy too. It made Blossom want to puke.
"Uh.." Brick tried to speak as Blossom continued to stare at the picture.
"Why do you still have this?"
"This is Butch's car, not mine." Brick spat out, hoping to save himself from the argument he was hoping to avoid. Blossom looked up from the picture to glare at Brick with anger flaring in her eyes.
Blossom narrowed her eyes. "So, you're saying that you don't have any pictures of her? Butch does. Brody does," Blossom pointed out, remembering the time she saw a picture of Brody, Maxine and Cordelia in Brody's home. "Are you honestly telling me that you don't have any pictures of her?"
There was a pregnant silence.
Brick looked at Blossom apologetically. "Yes, okay. But that doesn't mean I still like her. I miss her - a ton. But that's all there is."
"Okay," Blossom said softly. She trusted Brick more than she trusted herself. Blossom smiled at him weakly. "But you shouldn't just be telling me now that you miss her. She was a big part of your life, so you can't hide that. You should talk about her."
"What is there to talk about? We were in love. She left. It's not a very interesting story." He replied dryly - void of all the emotion he was bubbling up inside. Blossom could tell there was more to the story, though. That couldn't be it. No one dared talk about her, and Tyler once joked that Blossom was the 'new Cordelia.' She needed to know her, who she was.
"How did you meet her?" Blossom asked slyly.
Brick finally tore his eyes away from the road in front of him and sighed as he studied Blossom's shiny pink eyes. Blossom looked at him expectantly, hoping for a real answer for once. Brick nodded slowly and reluctantly.
"It was my first day of Townsville High.."
FLASHBACK;
Brick fumbled with the coded lock for his school locker. He wasn't used to having a locker - considering this being his first day at an actual high school. He finally managed to secure it properly. Brick was struggling to carry his many school books, and the girl that he knocked into the second he turned around didn't help.
One of his books scattered to the floor, and before he could examine whom he had knocked into, she had ducked to the ground to pick up his book. She rose to her feet once again and Brick was at a loss for words.
This moment would go down in Townsville High history - The first time Brick Jojo laid eyes on Cordelia Young.
Cordelia's hand raised and one of her perfectly manicured nails tucked a couple strands of soft brown hair behind her ear. She looked at Brick coyly, fluttering the thick black eyelashes above her piercing amber coloured eyes. As soon as those fascinating eyes were locked onto Brick's, he couldn't possibly look away. She was just so beautiful. Nothing could tear his gaze away from her.
She watched him watch her whilst flashing him a heart-melting smile. Her teeth were so white that they shined far brighter than any diamond ring on your finger could compare. Brick couldn't deny how much he wanted to kiss her right there and then. Her lips always looked glossy and full, even just after waking up. It was unreal. She was unreal.
It was the eyes that got him. Beautiful amber eyes - an enticing mix of orange and brown, making her look dangerous.
Finally, she spoke to him.
"I see you're new here," Her voice - angelic. Brick couldn't think straight enough to speak. He just gaped. "I'm Cordelia."
There was a deafening muteness. Cordelia cocked her head at him, a soft half-smirk dancing on her lips. She was used to people being captivated by her beauty, but Brick couldn't even speak. She brought her hand back up and waved it in front of Brick's still face, traces of red flickering her vision from her nail polish.
Brick suddenly through his head back, fully aware that she was trying to gain his attention.
"Brick.." He mumbled quietly. "My name is Brick." He stated clearer.
Cordelia's half-smirk spun into a full blown grin.
"Well, it's nice to meet you, Brick." She said before passing him the book that he had dropped. Brick took the book, still unable to tear his eyes away from her's. Only when she spun on her Gucci heels, did Brick lose eye-contact with Cordelia.
He watched as she strolled down the hallway, a spring in her step and a smile on her cherry red lips.
Brick continued to stare intensely until the bell rang and he realised that he had to go to class. He hoped that Cordelia would be in his first class - and luckily for him, she was. From that day on, a friendship was formed, and sooner on a relationship that would go down in Townsville High history.
...
"Wow," Blossom said. She was suddenly interested in her shoes - unable to look up to meet Brick's piercing red eyes. She could practically feel his body go rigid with every mention of her name. "It seems like you two were really meant to be together."
Blossom suddenly felt her cheek being cradled by Brick's strong hand. She looked back up at him, her eyes swimming in emotion. It took a couple of seconds to register that Brick was shaking his head. After the story, Blossom couldn't seem to think or see straight. No one likes hearing that the person they love was once so much suited for someone else. It stung deep.
"Cordelia was an amazing girl, Blossom. She was funny, sexy, witty-"
"You're not making me feel any better."
"-But she was so unright for me," Brick finished. "Everyone thought we were perfect but behind closed doors, we both knew how bad we were for each other. We literally drove each other crazy," Brick said with a soft chuckle. "But you? You drive me crazy in the good way."
Blossom smiled sadly, digesting his sweet words.
"So, if Cordelia ever came back here..you wouldn't pick things up where they left off?" Brick was astonished by her question. He suddenly went quiet, which made Blossom nervous. Brick turned to look at the road again, to make sure they weren't going to hit anything.
He glanced at her again and sucked in a sharp breath. "Cordelia had her baggage, alright? She wasn't who I thought she was. But you're Blossom. Even though you changed for a brief period, you're still Blossom. Cordelia was so two-faced that I couldn't keep up with her. When she left, sure, I was sad, but I was sort of relived too."
Blossom looked back down at the picture and frowned. She envied this girl so much. Not just because of her beauty - but also because of the effect that she left on people. She sounded like an amazing girl, of course she also sounded like an evil cow.
"How could you have been relieved? I mean, you had commitment issues because of her."
Brick looked over at her to see her still staring at the picture. He reached forward and took the picture out of her hand, glancing at it himself before looking back over at Blossom. He cleared his throat before answering.
"The commitment issues weren't because I still loved her. It was because of the hell she put me through before and after she left. There's something you need to understand, Blossom, Cordelia might sound like this amazing girl to you, but that's because you never met her. She didn't worship the devil, he worshiped her, and the ground she walked on! She made the vilest of people look like angels."
Blossom wasn't sure if Brick was being serious or just seriously over-dramatic. She raised her eyebrow.
"So you wouldn't be interested if she were to come back?"
Brick shook his head. "No. I love you, Bloss."
She smiled brightly and pushed her lips towards his, capturing him in a sweet kiss. Of course, she had to pull away quickly so that Brick wouldn't crash into another car. The fear wasn't even in crashing the car - the fear was what would happen if they survived. That car was both Butch and Buttercup's baby. They had to treat it like it were sacred.
"Yeah, I sort of love you too." Blossom said with a small pout before breaking out into a cheeky smile. Brick chuckled at her and shook his head before placing a chaste kiss on her forehead.
Brick looked out of the rolled down window and without needing to think, through the picture of him, Butch and Cordelia straight out. Just as he was pulling his hand back he noticed the time on his watch and his eyes grew.
"Shit!"
Blossom's brows furrowed. "What?"
"We have five minutes to get to school." He held up his watch. 7:55. Blossom cursed for the 8th time in her entire life.
"Good morning, Townsville! Watch out for some heavy rain later on today, and make sure to-"
Mitch instantly turned his car radio off. The though of it raining later ruined his hopes for going skateboarding with Buttercup and Butch. A small frown tugged at his lips as he turned his attention back to the road. The light's once again flashed green, and Mitch's foot pressed down on the accelerator. He started to drive again, wondering how long it would take to get to Buttercup's.
His finger pressed the radio button again, turning it back on. He clicked through the weather and news channels until eventually landing on his favourite radio station. A good song was on, bringing the cheerful smile back to Mitch's face. He looked down at the half open glove compartment and noticed the picture sitting inside.
He took his hand away from the steering wheel for only seconds to grab the photo. It was an old photo. Buttercup was in it, five years old and even then sporting her famous smirk. Mitch was stood beside her, wearing the silly beanie hat that Freddie had bought him. Apparently beanies were cool to seven year olds back then. Mitch chuckled at the memory of that fateful day.
Just thinking about how much things had changed scared him. It was strange. Nothing scared a Mitchelson. The thoughts of when he was six, when he had his whole life ahead of him. Now he had to actually grow up. Mitch wasn't sure if he could be like his brother, Nick, holding down a decent job and paying the bills that their mother can never make on time.
Buttercup wanted to be a famous boxer at that age too - of course, she was a superhero back then, she didn't know that a boxing career was an option.
Mitch pulled himself from his thoughts and shoved the picture back into the almost-empty glove box. His head shot up to notice that he was seconds away from Buttercup's house. He slowly started to slow down the pace of the car. Just as he passed the front door, he saw his best friend waiting for him.
She was dressed for a casual summer day in Townsville. Black denim shorts and a long-sleeved lime green shirt. Of course she had odd green tights on also. Buttercup was never famous for bearing skin. She never wore shorts out unless they were accompanied by thick tights or thin leggings.
Rolling down the window, Mitch smirked at Buttercup.
"Hello, Lovely," He called cheerfully. "Hope I didn't keep you waiting too long."
Buttercup pursed her lips, frustrated. He knew very well that he had kept her waiting for a full ten minutes. That was the thing about Mitch, he liked to get on Buttercup's nerves, because he knows that he's the only guy she wouldn't lash out on or try to choke to death. He had a free-pass when it came to the reign of terror from Buttercup Utonium.
"Whatever. You're paying for the coffee." Buttercup said - more like commanded - before moving towards his car and getting into the passenger seat. Mitch chuckled at her. She simply smiled back as she changed the music station on Mitch's car radio.
"You got it. So, how is life at the Utonium house?"
Buttercup shrugged distantly. "Good, I suppose."
Mitch's eyebrow immediately rose. "You, Buttercup Utonium, do not suppose anything. Talk to me. I am your best friend, remember?"
Buttercup sighed. "Yes, I do remember."
Her blank expression was met with Mitch's award-winning smile. "So talk."
There was a stiff silence as Buttercup ran her hand through her shiny black hair. She turned to look at Mitch - who was occasionally sending her a glance before turning back to the road - and nodded slowly. Buttercup knew that if she could talk to anyone about her problems, that Mitch was her guy. He was always so painfully understanding and sweet, as well as being the cocky and sarcastic boy he usually played. But he played it so well. Both, in fact.
Mitch waited patiently, one hand on the steering wheel, the other planted behind his head.
"What's eating you, kid?"
If he wasn't operating heavy machinery that she happened to be in, Buttercup would have given him a slap for that remark, which would have been rare. She never physically attacks Mitch. But he did get on her nerves by flaunting the fact that he is a year older than her. Being called a kid was not acceptable in any case.
"We're all graduating in a few months and I have no idea what to do."
"Career wise, you mean? I thought you wanted to be a boxer?"
Buttercup closed her eyes slightly - finding it hard to think properly.
"That is the dream. But could you leave this place? I mean, we've both left Townsville and we always find our way back. It's like Townsville is the only damn place that feels like home." Buttercup's voice threatened to raise in anger, but she remained as serene as possible.
Mitch nodded in understanding. "I get what you're on about, Lovely. If you want my honest opinion, I just got you back. And I don't plan on leaving Townsville again. So, I'd rather you stuck around. But you can't stay here for the plain fact that this is your home. You have to do what's best and all that noise."
"Yeah," Buttercup's face furrowed. "You're pretty smart. Sometimes."
Mitch cracked a smirk. "Don't tell anyone. Wouldn't want to ruin my reputation."
"Deal."
"Hey, we're here." Mitch announced as the car came to a halt. They were parked outside of the nicest café's in all of Townsville; The Cove. Buttercup and the others didn't spent much time at The Cove because it was far away from most of their houses. Mitch, however, always did love this little cafe.
It was sort of homely. Usually it was empty because most of their customers ordered coffee's or other assorted drinks to go. But you would occasionally catch a cute old couple or some business man sitting at one of the few tables and enjoying a quick pick-me-up before getting back to their lives.
Mitch and his brothers loved The Cove. It wasn't all that local, but the coffee was always amazing. It tasted like Christmas - as Nick Mitchelson once said.
"I feel like I haven't been here in years." Buttercup said, stepping out of Mitch's car.
Once he was too out of the car and the doors were secure, Mitch leaded Buttercup into The Cove. It still looked the same as the last time Buttercup had been, right down to the hardwood floors. Buttercup smiled as she took in the small café. Mitch spotted his favorite little table near the front of the café and began to walk towards it, Buttercup following behind.
The walls were a bright red colour, making it seem more up-beat than it really was. There wasn't any puffy red booths or fancy tables like you would expect to see in a café. Instead, the small coffee shop was surrounded by squishy orange armchairs, wooden tables and comfortable sofa's. There was always light classical music strumming in the background, adding the element of peace. All you could smell from the moment you walked into The Cove was the fresh aroma of coffee and pastries. Just enough to make anyone's mouth water uncontrollably.
"I'll get the coffee." Mitch said as Buttercup took a seat on one of the bright orange armchairs.
Mitch casually made his way up to the black counter. There was a tray of mouth-watering pastries behind a glass container beside the fancy cash register that made Mitch's stomach immediately growl. He contemplated getting food but decided against it. He was strapped for cash at the minute. All thanks to his mother whom couldn't stop decorating the house.
Behind the counter, a beautiful girl was absentmindedly studying her nails. Mitch didn't immediately try to grab her attention because while she was checking out her nails, he was busy checking out her. This girl was tall, the same height as Mitch himself, possibly the same age too. Her strawberry blonde hair cascaded in waves down her back and her mysterious blue eyes were slightly narrowed.
Mitch turned to look at the name-tag pinned to her short-sleeved white shirt. Hailey. Her eyes finally clicked onto his after a long moment of silence. She smiled instantly, taking in the tall and handsome boy before her.
"I'll take two coffees," Mitch ordered, a boyish grin on his face. "And a date if you're offering?"
A faint sound that was a mix between a laugh and a snort was heard back at Mitch's table. He turned his head to glare at Buttercup who was slowly banging her head against the glass window. She wasn't used to a teenage Mitch Mitchelson. He was much more full-of-himself. Buttercup couldn't believe how many girls he flirted with - although more shocked at how many girls went along with it. How Mitch got Maxine to kiss him, she'll never know.
Buttercup's eyes met Mitch's and she couldn't help but smirk at the ticked-off expression painted on his face. She waved and smiled at him with as much cheek as she could muster. Mitch let out a low groan before turning back to the beautiful cashier. She was giggling too, but not in the same way as Buttercup.
"I guess I'll see you on Friday." Hailey said in a stunning Welsh accent.
She passed him a small white card that had her name and phone number on it. Mitch smiled victoriously as he took the card from her hand. She passed him his two coffees and leaned forward to give him a chaste kiss on the cheek. He grinned uncontrollably, the kiss leaving him wanting so much more.
Just as he was about to go over to Buttercup, his eyes casually glanced to the piece of paper that was taped to the front of the cash register. The large bold headline grabbed his attention instantly.
Job Offer. Cashier/Waiter. Decent Pay.
Mitch lit up. He raised his eyebrow as he read the rest of the sign. He could really use a job right now. Not only to help Nick out with paying the bills that his mother couldn't, but also because it couldn't hurt to have a little extra pocket money. Mitch set down one of the coffees and too the sign, glancing back up to Hailey.
"Hey, what does it take to get a job here?" He asked her with a flashing smile.
Hailey smiled back at him. "As long as you can pour a decent cup of coffee, are good at Math and have excellent people skills."
"Sounds perfect for me," Mitch said. "Think you could put in a good word for me with your boss?" He asked her, trying to muster up as much charm as humanly possible. Hailey giggled and nodded.
"Of course," She said before handing him his change. "See you around."
Mitch thanked her before putting his change in his pocket and retrieving the other cup of coffee. He spun on the heel of his black converse shoes and began to walk back to Buttercup whom was shaking her head and rolling her eyes. Mitch smirked as he sat down opposite from her and handed her one of the coffees.
"Seriously? You want to work here?" Buttercup asked as she sipped her burning hot coffee.
"Yeah, dude! I love this place. My mom is in tons of debt because of all the work being down on the house. If I can contribute a little, maybe she'll get off my back," Mitch chuckled. "Plus, we're graduating soon, I'll need to get a job sooner or later."
Mitch watched as the happy-go-lucky smile dropped from Buttercup's face. He bit his own tongue in regret. After their talk in the car, mentioning graduation and jobs wasn't the best thing to do. Mitch had always suffered from foot-in-mouth disease.
"I really didn't mean to say that." Mitch said apologetically.
Buttercup shook her head and looked down at her coffee. "It's okay. I need to deal with this at some time, right?"
"Yeah."
"Do you think I've changed?" Buttercup asked absent-mindedly while tapping her fingers on the plastic cup of coffee she was staring at. Mitch's eyes lit up in amusement. He put both of his elbows on the brown oak table and leaned forward, trying to meet her eyes.
"Hell yeah - not in a bad way though. You're more open, you could say."
Buttercup finally looked up, continuing to tap her fingers, unable to sit still. "But how is that a good thing? I used to be so different before I came back here. Nothing bothered me, I stuck out from the crowd and didn't give a damn if people cared. Now..I just want to fit in more than anything. And I don't want to leave. I really don't want to leave."
"What do you mean?"
"Do you remember the last time you saw me before I left? I told you that I wanted to go wherever the world took me. It sounds so corny, but I wanted adventure, you know? Right now, I just want to stay in Townsville and never even think about leaving."
"So don't. No ones forcing you to leave."
"Exactly," Buttercup's voice raised slightly. "I pretty much just gave up everything that used to be important to me. I still want to be the person that travels the world and does whatever she wants. But I also want to be the person who I am right now, here. I don't know what to chose or do. Tell me what to do."
Mitch smiled slightly as Buttercup's head fell to the desk, slowly banging. If she kept doing that, she was sure to damage something. Mitch chuckled and reached forward. He poked at her hand to get her attention again - and it worked.
"Do what feels right," Mitch said, making Buttercup's face furrow. "Come on, Lovely. We're going to miss third period if we don't get a move on. Wouldn't want to get ourselves expelled before graduation now, would we?"
Buttercup forced a smile. She rose to her feet and finished off her now somewhat cold cup of coffee before dumping it in the trash can beside her foot. She followed Mitch out - rolling her eyes as he winked at Hailey before leaving - and bit her lower lip as she thought about their conversation.
It was time for everyone to grow up, but Buttercup wasn't sure if she was ready to leave this all behind. Well now? She was seriously running out of time.
"I love you."
"I love you, more."
"No. I love you more."
Tyler cringed and sent himself a face-palm as he watched his once good friend and his sister gushing over each other. It had been so long since he had seen them together that he had forgotten how sickening it was. Tyler opened his eyes to see them kissing and decided that was the final straw.
"Please stop," The British boy pleaded. "I beg of you!"
Maxine rolled her eyes, fighting back the grin that was coming to surface. She turned back to look at Brody, perched on top of their usual school bench, smiling like a kid in a candy store. She leaned forward and kissed him twice on the lips before placing a final teasing kiss at the corner of his lips.
"I missed this." She muttered while lacing her fingers with his.
Brody grinned boyishly. "I missed it more."
"No-"
"Not this again!" Tyler exclaimed, throwing his head in his hands and sulking. Just as Maxine and Brody were about to have another cute debate, a voice saved Tyler from his own personal hell.
"Hey guys." Buttercup's voice boomed as she stood before her friends. Mitch was by her side. Neither had realised how late they were, but luckily they had made it just in time for break. If they had missed their third period as well, one of the teachers were bound to give them triple detention.
"You two are late." Maxine observed, eyeing the pair. Mitch shrugged and sent a smile her way. He glanced down to see Maxine's hand in Brody's and immediately looked back up. Maxine smiled back at Mitch before turning to look at Buttercup, who was watching Tyler with a grin. He looked scarred for life.
Buttercup looked around for a moment. "Where's Butch?"
"You're boyfriend?" Brody asked, earing a deathly glare from Buttercup. "He's around. The last I saw he was with Boomer and Bubbles. He should be along any minute."
Mitch and Buttercup took a seat on the bench, the side opposite from where Tyler was sat. Buttercup smiled at him from across the bench, glad that he was back with the gang and no longer sulking in his house. Maybe this meant he was ready to move on? Buttercup wasn't sure, but she did know that he had something on his mind.
As if right on cue, Buttercup looked up to see Butch making his way over to the table. He had both of his siblings by his side, including Blossom and Bubbles. The second Blossom laid eyes on Buttercup, the pink orbs hardened, and Buttercup knew she was royally screwed.
"What time do you call this!? Do you want to get thrown out before graduation? God, you really need to start taking some responsibilit-"
"Wow, chill, Bloss. I'm here, aren't I? All is hunky-dory." Buttercup said, making Butch chuckle. He came over to sit down beside her and give her a quick, almost hidden kiss, but Maxine saw it and was cooing at them. Blossom huffed and crossed her arms.
"All is not hunky-dory! Just try to actually show up on time tomorrow? We only have a couple months until graduation. Remember that."
Buttercup sighed. "I'll freeking try." She tried to make it sound forced, but she didn't even need to try. Nothing could make her forget. If only Blossom understood how stressed Buttercup was right now.
"Aw!" Bubbles squealed at Maxine and Brody - thankfully stopping the argument that was taking place. The blonde motioned to the intertwined hands and started smiling so wide that it hurt. Maxine laughed shortly as she looked at Brody.
"You two are so cute," Bubbles said as she sat down next to Maxine on the top of the bench. "I always knew you would get back together!"
"I did too." Brody said sweetly before kissing her softly on the lips.
Tyler threw his head in his hands and started to make fake crying noises. He seriously had had enough of the mushy personal displays of affection.
Buttercup laughed along with Butch at Tyler's little display, then she noticed something. This was the first time that everyone was together in a long time. Of course, Skylar had been replaced by Mitch, but they were still all together. And it felt pretty amazing. Buttercup looked around at all her friends, laughing, kissing, having a good time. She got a pain in her gut. She had to leave this all behind.
How could she possibly leave them? What Buttercup couldn't accept, was that after graduation, nothing would ever be the same.
Brick and Blossom would go off to college. Bubbles would be trying to get into a fancy arts school to improve her dancing. She would drag Boomer along for the ride. Brody and Maxine would be too busy looking after their little baby to come out partying or go to annual movie nights. Tyler and Mitch would have decent paying jobs that wouldn't leave them much time to hang out. Butch would probably head back to the training camp for his second shot.
And Buttercup? She would be stuck. Everyone had a plan or an obligation, and Buttercup had nothing but choices.
Explosions...on the day you wake up. Needing somebody and you've learned, It's okay to be afraid. But it will never be the same. It will never be the same - Ellie Goulding, Explosions
"Miss Holland?" Blossom asked as she stepped into the guidance office. Her guidance teacher was sat at her desk, absent-mindedly sharpening her already lethal pencils. She looked up at Blossom through her thick-rimmed black glasses and waved her over.
Blossom closed the office door behind her before walking over to sit in the seat opposite Miss Holland. She glanced at the tall, well-dressed brunette. Miss Holland did always have an eye for beauty. Blossom had never seen her when she wasn't wearing an expensive looking Gucci suit.
Miss Holland's face lit up in an overly friendly smile.
"Good afternoon, Miss Utonium. I'm assuming you understand why I called you up here?" Maria Holland asked curiously while twirling one of her yellow pencils in her finger tips. Blossom was staring at the pencil for so long that she forgot where she was. It was hard not to get intimidated by Miss Holland.
"Uh..um.." Blossom mumbled, finally tearing her eyes away from the pencil. "Yes. You want to discuss my options for after graduation?"
Maria nodded bluntly. She began to skim through pieces of paper which Blossom assumed to be her permanent record. Blossom involuntarily swallowed the lump in her throat. She was so nervous that her palms were beginning to feel clammy.
"I see here that your grades have dropped quite a bit," Maria said as she looked up from the document, her eyes narrow beneath her bulky glasses. "Why is that, Miss Utonium?"
Blossom tugged at the collar of her dress, suddenly finding it difficult to breathe.
"Well, I was under a lot of stress-"
"Yes, I see that here, and you also fainted in class once? Was that also because of stress, Miss Utonium?" Maria questioned as if Blossom was being convicted of something. Blossom swallowed again, her eyes painfully wide.
"What does that have to do with-"
"A lot. You have missed a couple of classes due to unknown reasons. When you did show up to classes, you were distant, tired, unable to complete even the simplest of tasks. A future boss is not going to accept that kind of behaviour."
Blossom ran a hand through her silky red hair. She prayed that Brick was there to help her, but she was in this mess because of herself. Things had gone very downhill for Blossom. During the time of her eating disorder, she was so wrapped up in her image that school never came first. She didn't even realise how bad she had made it for herself for after she got better.
"Look, Miss Holland, I'm not perfect," Blossom started bravely. "It took a lot for me learn that perfect doesn't exist. I let my grades slip, I ruined all chances of having a perfect school attendance and record because I was careless. I'll admit it to you, I seriously messed things up for myself, but you have no right to hold that over my head!"
There was a dull silence.
Miss Holland pursed her lips and leaned forward, dropping the documents she had been skimming over. Blossom felt her head pushing back slightly, worried at the wrath she would have to suffer. The silence seemed to go on for years. It was deafening. Eventually, Miss Holland broke the muteness by taking off her glasses and placing them onto the table in front of her.
"You've got some guts to stand up for yourself like that," Maria spoke with admiration. "Tell me, what is it you want to do after you leave this school?"
From the tone of her voice, Blossom could tell that Miss Holland was genuinely interested and intrigued. Blossom didn't know why, but she decided not to question it. She was in no place to.
"A teacher.." Blossom mumbled.
FLASHBACK; - Chapter 24. Secrets and Fears.
"The next one, is tell them a personal secret."
Blossom smiled. "I want to be a teacher when I'm older. So I can teach kids not to make the same mistakes, someone to look up to, and to make my dad proud."
Butch smiled back. "I think you'd be a good teacher, maybe too strict, but hey, that's what the kids need." Blossom laughed along with him and shook her head.
"What's yours, and be honest!" Butch wasn't comfortable saying it to Blossom of all people, but he had a feeling he may as well get it out now, or never. He began to twiddle his thumbs nervously again.
"I worry that if I tell Buttercup how I feel, she'll stop talking to me." Butch answered. Blossom looked at him with a blank face. She sighed and put her arms on the table, leaning forward.
"Buttercup isn't like most girls, but you probably know that. She isn't going to be happy when she finds out you lied about not having feelings for her, but if she has them back for you, it'll be fine. If you really like her, you'll just have to take the risk." Blossom replied. Butch thought about it, and realised it made perfect sence.
"I guess you're right. You would make a pretty kick-ass teacher." He laughed. Blossom smiled and the two got up to head back to class.
...
Miss Holland's greyish eyes narrowed. "A teacher, huh? What makes you think that you would be a good teacher, Miss Utonium?"
Blossom began to chew her lower lip. It wasn't easy to explain to a teacher why you feel qualified enough to do what they do. In all her life, Blossom had never feared success of any kind, but now it was so close to the end, and it really was now or never. She had to prove not only to Miss Holland - but to everyone that she could this.
"I might not be the best role model. Sure, I go out to parties and occasionally drink. I'm clearly not as bright as I thought I was. I cause just as many problems as I conquer. But that's not what the kids are going to care about. They want someone they can relate to. Someone who can say that they have been through the same problems as they have. They need a friend, just as much as they need a teacher."
Miss Holland nodded slowly, although her expression unreadable. Blossom fiddled with her thumbs - unable to sit still.
"Okay, Miss Utonium. I think that this meeting is over. For the record, I doubt that an employment agency is going to hire a girl that wants to be friends with her students," She spoke in a harsh tone. "But..off the record, I think that it's exactly what the kids need. I guess it's your choice to decide which teacher you would want to be."
Blossom was almost speechless. Almost. "What do you mean?"
Maria sighed sharply. "You have exams soon. If your qualifications are good, then you will get easily hired. But teachers get hired for their strictness and capability to understand how to discipline kids. If you come across as the overly friendly type of teacher, it will be harder to find someone who will want to hire you."
Blossom gaped. "I don't have to decide what kind of teacher I want to be - I can be both. And my mistakes won't matter. I think you're right, Miss Holland, I think this meeting is over."
With that said, Blossom rose out of her seat and turned to leave.
She walked out of the office with her head held high, and a gut feeling that she had just done the wrong thing. She didn't want to be like Miss Holland. She didn't want to fear kids into speaking their mind. She wanted to be a teacher that kids could come to for help.
Blossom had been through so much in her short life - if she couldn't used those experiences to help others, then what was the point?
If she was going to make this work, she had to learn to forget how messed up things had gotten for her, and learn to grow up.
"Growing up is all about getting hurt. And then getting over it. You hurt. You recover. You move on. Odds are pretty good you're just going to get hurt again. But each time, you learn something." - Jim Butcher, White Night
Sorry for the wait, but I hope that the long chapter makes up for it? :) Well, the story is coming to a close now, but I still have some pretty awesome chapters left. I estimate around 9-8 possibly? As you might have guessed, this story is about dealing with teenage drama and still standing by graduation. A basic childhood - to - adulthood story. Well I plan on showing exactly what I mean by that!
Thank you for reading! You're all angels!
Review please, it only takes seconds :)
Allie
