SCHOOLS IN FOR SUMMER
Ricky slowly uncurled himself from Amy and looked at her and smiled. He then kissed her on the cheek as she awoke and whispered good morning to her. She looked at him with tired eyes, and wiped away the sleep and said good morning back with a smile. Ricky arose and went into the kitchen to begin making breakfast for he, Amy, and John. Amy came fully awake and went into John's room to check on him. John turned over in his bed and looked at his mother with light grin. She then went into her son's room and uncovered him from his blanket. John began to laugh, and run around the room as Amy chased him to continue their morning ritual where they chased one another in an attempt to get John ready for the day.
Amy was a bit annoyed for it seemed that the older John got the more active, and energetic he would become. But, this was hard considering she did not have the energy to keep up with him. She and Ricky allowed this game for a week because neither had school for a while but she had failed her last English exam and was told that she would have to attend summer classes in order to make up for it. Today was the beginning of Summer School, and she did not have the patience to deal with this.
Ricky yelled at Amy from the kitchen that breakfast would be ready in a while, and she should hurry to get she and John ready to go. Amy, finally caught up to John and began the hard task of getting John his bath, and dressed for daycare. She filled the bath tub with the hot water and got out Johns' bath toys. As she turned around John disappeared out of the bathroom naked. John, Amy yelled as she chased her son into the kitchen. Ricky, saw his son running toward him smiling and giggling as he ran from his mother as naked as the day he was born.
As Ricky saw his son and finacee in the mist of their daily routine he couldn't help but laugh as this happened now at a routine. Amy however was not laughing since she was running late. John she screamed as she finally caught up to him. Why do you do this every morning. Come on Amy he usually does this to keep us in shape its better than jogging. Amy looked at him with a sour face and turned to take their son into the bathroom and get him ready.
As Amy finished getting John dressed she called Ricky who came into the bathroom and took his son so he could allow Amy to get ready for school. He himself would have to take John to daycare, and then open up the shop. This was new to him being a family man during the summer. Usually he would allow himself time to sleep in and go to work at noon, but now that he and Amy were getting married he thought it best to start working more hours in order to save for a bigger place, and the future. He had hoped that since he was now a high school graduate that he could apply for an internship job in the mail room of the company, but Ben had quit or was fired and was now working there. He wondered what had happened the day after the party to Ben, and Leo which he noticed caused friction between the two.
He thought if any friction would come it would come from Adrian. He knew that she would do something at the party in order to get over her humiliation by both he and her date, but why Ben he wondered. Usually Adrian would have turned her anger towards he and Amy, not her soon to be ex-husband. He tried to contact Ben after the party, but for some reason Ben refused to take calls from he or Amy. Ricky figured he was mad, and just wanted to be alone, later he learned from Jack who was told by Grace that Ben was on punishment from Leo, and he had spoken to Adrian after the "Incident" he called it.
Ricky remembered how he and Amy had talked about how they would deal with Adrian's advances towards him since they did not want her to come between she and he during their engagement. They figured that by giving her what she wanted at the party they would be free of her and teach her a lesson as well. But, he had to admit, he thought they should have used more tact than just kissing her like that in front of everyone. He didn't figure that she was dating someone so soon after Ben, and her advances towards him.
But, after the kiss and admitting to feeling nothing then dumped and be embarrassed like that must have been a shock to her ego. He thought it was nice of Ben to comfort her later, and that maybe she and Ben could work through their problems. But he later saw him talking to a new girl at the party. This thrilled Amy, who thought it would do Ben good, but deep down he knew she just didn't want Ben with Adrian. He could never figure why she hated Adrian so much, when in his own mind he actually saw similarities between Adriana and Amy though he would never tell that to either.
Amy came out of the shower just as John was finishing his breakfast oatmeal and juice with French toast. Amy came out wearing a red sweater, black tights and black boots. Ricky looked her over and whistled. Are you trying to make me jealous or are you trying to catch someone's attention at school. No, she said with a frown, this was all I had to wear since I forgot to do the laundry at my Dad's last night. She looked at him with a frown, and sat down to eat. Well, when you get home from work how about we go and do it then. We can even stop by and see your dad, and mom since we have both been avoiding them after the engagement. I know she said wryly. I don't want to hear their objections to us getting married.
We are not getting married right away Amy we are just engaged, he commented. We still have to get you out of high school, and me a better job and place to live. I know, I know. Amy said hoarsely. I think its kind of wrong that you and I stay here in this little apartment while Adrian gets to keep that huge two bedroom condo all to herself at Ben's expense. Well she is Ben's ex-wife, or soon to be ex-wife, and Ben said that he wanted her to have it. Stop being so jealous of Adrian, Amy.
She might have the condo, but she doesn't have Ben anymore or her baby True, Amy replied remembering Adrian had lost much more than she had gained. Deep down she felt sorry for everything Adrian had gone through, but she also felt jealous of her as well. Adrian was Ben's first, the mother of his first child, and also his first real wife, something she once wanted for herself. Amy you should get going, or you'll be late for school, Ricky said snapping her out of her thoughts.
LATER AT GRANT HIGH
Ben looked at Mike through the car glass as he knocked on it and informed Ben that he would be back at 1:00 PM on the dot, to collect him. Although Mike liked Ben a lot he too was disappointed in Ben for actually thinking of smoking marijuana. Ben, had been part of Mike's life since he was only three years old, and he was hired by Leo to act both as driver and body guard to Sarah & Ben Boykewich. It was a security precaution since, Leo's brother had informed him that he had received some threatening letters from members' of an opposing family. Although Ben didn't know the intricate details of his family's wealth Mike did. Leo's father was once a bag man for the mob, and allowed them to use his shop to launder money.
When Leo discovered this after his father's death he immediately put a stop to it. However, the mob did not take lightly to the dissolving of their partnership. Leo, paid a fee of $250,000 dollars to them in order to secure the safety of his family. Much of the money came from his new father in law who was a very wealthy man. Leo decided that he would not keep secrets from his family, and told Mr. O'Riley Sarah's father about his situation. Mr. O'Riley being descendant of an Irish Mob Family was able to free his son in law of the mob at a hefty price. With that Phillip gave Leo a $500,000.00 dowry, which he had saved for Sarah. Phillip was the owner of a large Bank, and sold his shares in order to help his son in law, and protect his daughter.
Ben, was totally oblivious to much of this history, save for his cousin in Italy who had taken, a mob job for some unknown reason. But, Mike knew the history well since he and Leo grew up together. Mike himself was an ex-employee of the mob, but was sent to prison for assault, after taking on an assignment .
Leo decided to help his old friend get back on his feet, and into a better line of work when he got out of jail. Leo gave Mike the job because he knew Mike was loyal, and honest, and would never let anything happen to his family. Mike worked for Leo for almost fifteen years now, and had noticed since Ben started high school his young charge had changed significantly in recent years due to the company he now kept.
He blamed much of Bens' troubles on Ricky Underwood. He thought Ricky reminded him too much of himself. Always ready to take on any task in order to prove himself. Ben, tried to be like Leo and be there for the people he cared about. But, Mike realized that Ben, mostly took after his mother. Who Mike remembered had a big heart, but would sometimes take on too much at once and would become overwhelmed.
Ben, looked at Mike with a frown and got out of the car. As he closed the door Mike drove beside him and repeated "ONE O" CLOCK. As Ben headed towards the school doors, he saw many of his class mates looking at him and whispering among themselves. He figured they must be gossiping about what happened at the party since, his attack on Henry did leave a few bruises.
He knew that his experiment with marijuana was not the topic since it would most likely be kept secret between he and his father. As he entered Grant High, he was met by Madison, who seemed down and sad for some reason. As he walked up to her he asked if she was alright. No Ben I'm anything but alright. You weren't the only one at the party who got hurt. Yeah, I heard Ben said as he remembered Alice calling him the week before, and telling him the story of how Lauren caught Madison and Jesse together. Well, if I can forgive Adrian Madison maybe Lauren can forgive you. No, she replied with tears coming from her eyes. You forgave Adrian, not Henry we all know that. Which means Lauren will probably forgive Jesse before she forgives me.
Ben couldn't help but feel sorry for the girls seeing as she was probably right. To, Ben forgiving Adrian seemed like the right thing to do since it was her nature to use sex in order to escape her pain.
But, Henry should have known better. Ben actually confided in Henry this secret, which made it worse in his eyes. Henry was asked by him to keep an eye on Adrian, to ensure she didn't make anymore mistakes. But, instead he took advantage of her situation, which made Ben want to hit him again as he thought about it. But, Lauren knows that Jesse was trying to lose his virginity, so there is a chance that she knows he took advantage of you, he said trying to comfort her.
Yeah, you're right Ben, Madison smiled finally able to have some hope that she had not lost her best friend. Thanks for talking to me, it's nice to know that you're still a nice a guy especially after all that's happened. Well, Madison I wouldn't say I' that nice. I just don't like to see a pretty girl cry, Ben said in a kind tone. This remark caused, Madison to turn and blush knowing that great guy like Ben thought she was pretty. As she was, about to thank Ben for his kind compliment Lauren came from behind and yelled, well trying to sleep with Amy's ex-boyfriend too Madison.
Madison, turned to look at Lauren with the same look as she had when Ben first saw her. Ben turned to Lauren, and said in a calming tone Lauren we were just talking about how bad she felt about what happened at the party. Ben, you should be the last person defending Madison, after what you did to Henry, Lauren replied. Honestly you did what I wanted to do to Madison. I can't believe you would forgive either of them much less Adrian. Ben, looked at Lauren and said you're right Lauren but this is not my problem and I should let you and Madison talk and work this out among yourselves. As Ben walked towards his locker he spotted Hank coming towards him still wearing the scars from his assault at the party. Henry walked slowly towards Ben's locker and attempted to make conversation with him.
So, nice to see you Ben well at least out of one eye since I can't really focus the other. Ben, did not acknowledge the comment he simply continued to place items in his locker when his phone rang. Hello, yes dad I'm at school and yes Mike told me 1'0 clock sharp. He hung up and Henry still tried to get Ben to acknowledge him. So is there trouble in the kingdom, he said jokingly. Ben simply shut his locker and walked away without even a word. Henry felt ripped apart inside that Ben neither yelled or even hit him but simply ignored him. He did not know which felt worse that his best friend hated him or that he simply felt nothing toward him.
As Ben walked away from Henry Amy entered the hallway, and saw Madison and Lauren arguing with one another. She decided that she would try and calm the situation between her two friends. Madison you're a hypocrite all you seem to do is sleep with other people's boyfriends, Lauren spat at Madison. Lauren, I didn't mean to sleep with him I was drunk and he simply took advantage of me. Yeah, and I suppose you were drunk when Jack and you hooked up too, Lauren replied. Lauren, I'm sorry I didn't mean for this too happen you are my best friend, and this is just like when you kissed Ricky. At that point Amy intervened and asked Madison how the situation between what happened to she and Jesse resembled what had happened to Lauren and Ricky. Amy, butt out Lauren snapped this has nothing to do with you. Lauren, Amy replied shocked that Lauren had attacked her.
Amy this is just as much your fault as it is Madison 's. When we all started high school we all took an oath we wouldn't get swept up in the whole sex thing. Then you go and have sex, with Ricky and draw Madison and I into it. What, did you say, Amy asked becoming furious at Lauren's comment. You heard me, she replied. Then you go on about your business keeping Ben, as a boyfriend all so you can use him. Lauren that is not fair, I never used Ben, I loved Ben you know that, as she replied to her remark.
Well if you loved him Amy how come you're engaged to Ricky. Lauren, Madison said calm down. Amy is the mother of Ricky's baby. Oh, please Madison Lauren snorted you were here only a few minutes ago flirting with Ben. WHAT! Amy said as she shot an angry glare at Madison. Why were you trying to flirt with Ben, Madison, Amy asked in a shocked tone. Amy it's not like that, and even if it were you and he aren't together anymore so it shouldn't matter, Madison said innocently.
Amy, continued to glare at Madison, she replied. You know Madison I was on the phone with Lauren trying to get her to forgive you. But, if this is how you are going to treat our friendship then I don't know why we were friends in the first place. Amy, how have you been anyone's friend she replied. All you have been doing since we started high school is complaining about how you didn't want to be pregnant. Complaining about how you didn't want to have sex with Ricky. And then complaining about how you wanted Ricky to marry you. Lauren and I have listened to all your problems, so when have you been a friend to either of us. Well excuse me Madison, Amy replied. I have been busy, trying to keep my family together.
Trying to study, and keep a job, and be with my boyfriend. Not to mention raise my son. Oh please, Amy the only time you even think of your son is when you need to use him to get some guy's attention. Either Ricky or Ben, you only use John as some kind of fashion accessory., responded Madison. Amy became frustrated at the last comment, and walked away. Leaving behind a large crowd consisting of Ben, Henry, Joe, Adrian, and half of the summer school student's of Grant High who immediately began texting those who missed this event of the confrontation between the three BFF's.
LATER THAT DAY AS SCHOOL CLASSES ENDED
Ben began, to take his books out of his locker and prepare himself for Mike's arrival, it was then he spotted Adrian walking toward him. Adrian shot Ben a smile, and was about to speak to him when she noticed Amy walking up from behind him. Ben, hi she said as she startled the young man who was not expecting her. Look, I've been trying to get in touch with you since the party, but you haven't accepted any of my calls she said. Yeah, well I have been busy, and I was meaning to try and talk to both you and Ricky hopefully together, Ben said sourly.
Really why, Amy asked. Actually, I have been thinking that maybe we all shouldn't hang out anymore, its just getting kind of awkward, he replied. Awkward, Ben we're friends. Amy that's what I've been thinking, I don't think we can be friends. What do you mean she said becoming upset. Amy, it's really hard trying to figure how I can be your friend after what you and Ricky did to Adrian at the party. What are you talking about Ben, we didn't do anything wrong, Amy said now angry.
Nothing wrong, Amy do you ever do anything wrong, he replied. You sleep with Ricky after knowing him a few hours wasn't wrong. Your being pregnant, and hiding it from me when we first started dating wasn't wrong. Your continuous lies to me about how you really felt about Ricky wasn't wrong, You and Ricky kissing while Adrian and he were dating wasn't wrong. You, humiliating Adrian at the party in front of everyone wasn't wrong.
Do you and Ricky ever think that maybe some of the things you do to people are wrong or is it always just everyone else who is wrong. You're blaming me and Ricky for Adrian sleeping with Henry Ben. We gave her what she asked for, and its not our fault if she couldn't take what she got. But, then again that's probably why she couldn't give birth to your daughter in the first place, she said furiously. Amy regretted those words before they were even out of her mouth, and she covered it with her hand after seeing Adrian had overheard her.
Adrian heard the comment, and was about to walk up to Amy when Ben intervened. You know what Amy SHUT UP. JUST SHUT THE HELL UP. What happened to my daughter was no one's fault, and for you to say that, finally makes me glad. You know I always felt guilty for sleeping with Adrian, the way I did. I even got mad at her for why we ended up sleeping together. But, now I see it was a good thing that I slept with her. Because, that night I was with someone who was honest, and actually cared about me. And now I can honestly say it was the best night of my life, and I no longer feel guilty about it.
It allowed me to be with someone who actually loved me and wasn't looking to use me. Instead of a lying, selfish, gold digging slut like you. Yeah, I said it Amy slut. You called Adrian that on so many occasions, and I wonder how does it make you feel to be on the other end of that word. Ben, then slammed his locker and walked down the hall toward Adrian, he took her hand and walked out of the school together. Thanks Ben, Adrian said as she turned towards him.
No problem, he said. It actually felt good saying that, now Amy Jeurgens knows how it feels to be on the receiving end of her own medicine. Adrian kissed Ben on the side of the cheek and went towards her car, just as Mike pulled up to collect Ben. At the same time Amy rushed into the bathroom went into one of the stalls and began to cry. She didn't just cry for what Ben had said but because she thought what he said may have been true.
