I'm sorry if you hate this chapter. I tried hard! It's okay if you don't like it, but please be nice about it! REWRITTEN
I kept contemplating whether I should even be going to the rumble or not. My body still hurt like absolute hell, but winning it for Johnny?
That was well worth it.
I made sure to rest most of the day, before I began to leave. The doctor's and nurses argued that I should be resting still, but I wasn't having any of it. Eventually, they gave in before giving me a change of clothes that the boys had brought over from my new room at Buck's. After that, I started making my way over to the Curtis'. I could barely lift my right arm to knock down the door, and instead, I kicked it open. The gang turned over to look at me, staring in surprise, not expecting me to even show up.
"You didn't think I wasn't gonna go to the rumble did yah?" I shut the door, walking inside.
"You shouldn't even be out of the hospital. Why did they let you go?" Darry folded his arms.
"I can be very convincing Dar-Bear." I smirked.
"You're too hurt, Jackie. You should be restin'." Darry argued.
"I got painkillers." I held up the small bottle.
"Do I even want to know where you got those?" Darry frowned.
"I might have took them while the doctor had his back turned. I'm fine though. I feel...okay-ish." I shrugged.
"I don't want you fightin' tonight. It's too dangerous." Darry told me.
"She's comin' either way Darry. Might as well give up now and save your energy for the rumble." Two-Bit chuckled.
I pulled on my leather jacket, making sure it was covering my injuries, before I gave Darry a wink.
"You know I can kick some Soc ass. So what's the problem?" I asked.
Darry eventually sighed and rubbed a hand through his hair.
"Alright fine. You can come. But I don't want yah anywhere without one of us bein' near you. And don't over do it, okay?" Darrel said.
"It's a done deal, Curtis." I smiled.
"Why are you so hellbent on fightin' tonight anyway?" Steve asked. "You don't even care about the rumbles. Why now?"
Everyone looked at me expectantly, waiting for my answer. I folded my arms, wincing from the pain, before I spoke up again.
"I'm doin' it for Johnny. I've...I've never felt so angry before in my life. My life has been absolute shit, the only good thing to ever happen to me was meetin' you guys. Yer family." I spoke seriously.
The gang wore different expressions on their faces, making it hard to figure out what they were feeling.
"If those assholes had just left us alone, we wouldn't have been in that mess to begin with, Johnny wouldn't be in that hospital bed fightin' for his life. I'm gonna make them pay. It's as simple as that." I lowered my voice. "Now let's do this shit. Let's end this once and for all. You guys with me?"
Steve grinned, hollering and cheering as we both ran out of the door together. Soon enough, everyone followed, looking excited and determined about beating the Soc's at the rumble. I could hear the thunder in the distance, and kept hoping it wouldn't rain before the rumble even started. Ponyboy came over to me as we jogged together towards our destination and began talking to me.
"Do you think...Johnny will make it?" Pony asked.
When I really thought about it, while part of me said yes, another part had hoped that Johnny didn't make it.
"With the way he is now...I actually hope that he doesn't make it. Does that...sound selfish?" I frowned. "I mean, I just don't want him in anymore pain. And he has no chance of ever walking again...I don't know what to feel...I just want what would be best for him."
Pony slowed down until he came to a stop, tears springing in his eyes. I came back over to Pony, putting a hand on his shoulder.
"I think I get what you mean. He'd be miserable wouldn't he?" Pony muttered.
"I just...don't want him to suffer anymore." I blinked away tears. "I love that boy so much. Me wanting him to stay alive, I feel like it's a little selfish of me to want that, you know? I love him..."
Ponyboy nodded in understanding, before giving me a hug. I returned the hug quickly, trying to calm down and pull myself together. After several seconds, we caught up with the gang until we finally made it to the rumble. We all stood tall and strong with the Greasers, side by side as the Soc's arrived in their fancy cars one by one.
"Ah..Heffer. Good seeing you here." Tim Shepard winked at me.
I tried being friendly and winked back.
"Nice to see you too, Timmy." I smirked.
"I told you not to call me that." He rolled his eyes.
"When have I ever listened to you, Shepard?" I chuckled.
"Good point." He nodded.
We all fell silent, growing angry as the Soc's finally started to make their way over to us. I pulled my hair back and put it in a loose bun as I cracked my knuckles, ready to get started.
"Hello Darrel."
Darrel nodded at the Soc in what seemed to be mutual respect, almost as if they were old friends which was more than likely. I spotted a familiar face in the crowd, recalling the night of Bob's murder.
This fucker was one of the guys who tried to drown Ponyboy and I.
The Soc looked straight at me and sneered as he recognized me.
Oh, he's first.
And then the fight had begun.
Greasers and Soc's charged at each other at full speed, looking ready to kill almost. I ran at the one Soc that was there the night of Bob's murder, ready to beat the snot out of him within an inch of his life.
This asshole deserved a fate worse than death.
I jumped on him, my legs wrapping around his waist as he fell backwards. I didn't let up, punching his face until I could hardly recognize him. It was almost as if I wasn't even in my own body, I was just letting the rage take over. My blood was boiling, I couldn't contain what was left of my sanity, I was being eaten alive almost. Without realizing, I was being pulled off of the Soc, being put in a choke hold immediately.
"What's a Greaser bitch doin' here fighting?" He laughed.
"Fuck...you..." I breathed out.
I thought quickly elbowing him in the stomach as hard as I could, causing him to release me. I whirled around in a flash, kicking him right in the face as he was bent over, trying to catch his breath. That Soc fell almost immediately, groaning in pain as he became unconscious. I smiled as I witnessed the chaos unfold right in front of me. It had started raining not so long ago, but it was like a veil falling over everyone. The rain almost looked beautiful against the men brawling. It was when I saw Ponyboy being attacked that I finally snapped out of it, my rage taking over once again.
"FUCK YOU! GET OFF OF HIM!" I screamed.
I ran at the Soc, tackling him to the ground and off of Ponyboy. We struggled for a few minutes before I kneed him right in the groin. I used that chance to get up from the ground and began kicking the Soc in the stomach repeatedly with my hard boots. I turned over to look at Ponyboy, making sure he wasn't badly injured.
"You okay Pony?" I asked.
"Thanks..." He coughed.
Ponyboy gave me a small smile before his expression changed completely. His eyes widened in shock and before he could really warn me, I was already tackled from behind.
"Jackie!" Pony yelled.
I nearly whimpered from the pain, but managed to focus on the Soc on top of me instead. I was turned around until the Soc was straddling my waist, punching me in the face repeatedly. Pony had tried to help me, before he was pulled away by another Soc.
"You fucking bitch!" The Soc shouted in my face. "Normally I don't hit girls, but you're the fucking exception here!"
I struggled with all of my might, trying to throw him off of me, but nothing had worked. The Soc continued attacking me. As if by some miracle, the Soc was being yanked off of me, before being thrown to the ground. I slowly got up from the ground, looking to see who had helped me. I looked up at the sky, and sighed at how nice the cold raindrops felt on my skin. I turned my attention to the beat up Soc and noticed who my little knight in shining armor was.
Dally. He made it.
"No one touches my girl, you dipshit!" Dally growled.
"Your girl?" I looked at him in surprise.
Dally turned around and smirked at me, wrapping an arm around my waist before pulling me in for a heated kiss. I closed my eyes immediately, falling into his embrace and brushing my tongue with his. Dallas nibbled on my bottom lip before giving me one more kiss.
"Damn right you're my girl, Angel Face." Dally smirked.
I stood there in complete shock, not expecting this from Dally one bit. Dallas winked at me, before running off into the crowd again, looking for another fight.
I think we're gonna have to talk about this later...
It wasn't long after until I heard shouting and cheers over the noise of the rainfall. Soc's were fleeing and running away, while the Greasers were happy for their victory. I would have been celebrating as well, but I could feel the pain come back. I merely stood there, my eyes clenched tightly as I fought back the urge to scream from the sharp pains moving throughout my body. I didn't even notice that Sodapop had come over, giving me a look of concern.
"Jackie! Are you alright?" Soda put his hand on my shoulder.
"Don't touch me man!" I yelped from the pain.
"Shit. You need some help. I knew you shouldn't have come to the fight." He mumbled.
Sodapop ignored my complaints and picked me up, carrying me all the way back to the Curtis household. The gang followed us closely behind, nursing bruises and cuts. I kept breathing deeply, trying not to lose my mind much like earlier. Soda placed me on the couch as he frantically brought out the first aid kit.
"Where are your pain meds?" Soda asked.
"Pocket..." I hissed.
Soda gently moved my arm, before reaching into my pocket and pulling out the bottle. He took out two pills after reading the label on the bottle and gave me a glass of water on the table nearby.
"Drink up." He ordered.
I took the pills, swallowing them before laying back down on the couch.
"Go worry about the others...I'll be fine, Sodapop."
"You got a nice cut on your face, let me see if it needs stitches." Soda said.
"Make it quick." I grumbled.
Everyone sat around the living room, cleaning off their cuts, and getting ice for their bruises. I drifted in and out of sleep from the pain meds, trying really hard to stay awake. I only took notice about half an hour later, that Ponyboy was missing. I sat up against my better judgement, wincing from the pain as I managed to finally stand up.
"Where the hell do you think you're goin'? You ain't in no shape to be movin'." Darry told me.
"I just...I wanna go...I need to see Johnny." I muttered weakly.
"Sweetheart, you're barely able to stand. I don't think that's a good idea." Two-Bit came over.
I made it over to the door, my hand hovering over the door handle before the door opened, nearly knocking me over. In came Ponyboy, looking glum and depressed. When he looked into my eyes, I saw tears. Ponyboy came over and gently hugged me, putting his head on my chest and refusing to look at anyone else. I was immensely surprised by the action, but slowly wrapped my arms around him and rubbed his back. As I started feeling more alert, the more anxious I became.
"Hey Ponyboy where you been? What's wrong?" Soda asked.
"Pony...what's the matter?" Darrel looked concerned.
Ponyboy pulled away from me, making his way to the kitchen, trying to distance himself from everyone.
"Johnny died...Dally and I told him we won and he just...died. He told me to stay golden..." Pony mumbled softly. "Dally didn't take it too well...he's gonna blow."
The words hit me hard, like pouring a bucket of ice cold water over my head. I didn't realize that I had let out a sob before I could see everyone look at me in worry. My body shook violently as I started crying and almost fell to the floor. Two-Bit being the closest nearby, he quickly caught me in his arms as we both came to the floor. Two-Bit held me tightly, trying to keep his emotions in check as well. I eventually pulled away from Two-Bit, getting up from the floor regardless of how I felt, physically and mentally. I stood in the doorway looking out into the dark and cold night. The moon was out and shining brightly in the darkness. I would have thought it was a beautiful night, but then Dallas invaded my thoughts. He loved Johnny just as much as I did.
Pony's right...he's gonna blow.
I found my leather jacket resting on a coat hanger near the door, and quickly put it on, ignoring the sharp pains in my arm.
"Jackie...where are you going?" Darry cautiously asked.
"Gotta...I gotta find him." I mumbled.
"Who? Dallas?"
"Darlin', I don't think- -" Soda started.
"He's my best friend." I cut him off. "I know Dallas Winston. Pony's right. That man's gonna blow. I can't...I can't lose him too."
"Jacqueline- -"
"I'm gonna find him." I spoke more firmly.
With that, I slammed the door, making my leave.
I ran as far as my legs would carry me. I could feel my heart pounding so loudly that I could hear it in my ears. This might have been the second time in my life that I was this desperate. I was never much of a religious person, but right now, with all that had happened thus far, I was praying to God. I just wanted something to go my way for once, I didn't want anyone else to die tonight.
Especially Dallas.
I could hear screams in the distance, as well as police sirens. I knew Dallas was hurting, but I didn't think he'd try and kill himself like this. I ran until I could finally see Dallas with police officers surrounding him from several feet away, ready to shoot. I could also make out the gang from a distance, all of them shouting and crying, begging for the police to put down their guns and spare Dallas as they ran towards them.
"Put down the weapon!" An officer ordered.
"You ain't gonna take me alive!" Dally yelled.
"DALLAS NO!" I screamed.
Dallas got out his gun, and aimed for the officers, but before being able to pull the trigger, the officer's had shot first, all at once. Dallas' body had sharply turned from the impact of the bullet hitting his shoulder first, falling backwards to the ground. I kept running, hoping to make it over there before they shot again, but Dallas refused to go down and got back up again. They fired once more, getting Dallas repeatedly. Soon enough he was crawling, bullet holes peirced through his body, blood beginning to pour from his mouth.
"STOP IT! HE'S JUST A KID!" Two-Bit hollered.
I finally made it over to Dallas, my eyes wide from absolute shock.
I failed him...I failed...
I pulled him over until he was laying against me, gasping for his last breath. Tears strolled down my face as I cradled him. I looked down at him and found him smiling faintly at me, like this was something he actually wanted.
And then I understood...he wanted to die.
Dally weakly moved his hand as he coughed up more blood, his hand shaking violently as he grabbed at the chain around his neck. He snapped it off of him before placing it into my own hand.
It was his ring.
"Ja...Jackie...be my girl?" He breathed out.
I nodded my head frantically, the tears flowing freely onto his face.
"Yeah. I'll be your girl." I choked out.
"...what's...with the...the long face...Angel Face?"
"Dally! Stop talking! You're gonna make it! The ambulance is probably on their way!" I snapped.
Dally smiled sadly and shook his head, knowing the hard and sad truth.
He was going to die right here...
"Dally...you can't...you can't." I sobbed.
Dally placed his bloody hand on top of mine, gripping it weakly. It wasn't long after until I saw the life drain out of Dallas' eyes, his body growing limp against mine.
"Dally? Dally! Wake up! No.." I placed my forehead against his.
For the first time in my life, I was defeated, I felt part of myself die with Johnny and Dallas. I held on tightly to Dally's ring attached to the broken chain in my hand.
"Step away from the body, ma'am." An officer spoke up.
I finally looked up, glaring at the officer through my bloodshot eyes, looking up at him in absolute hatred. I slowly placed Dally's body down, stepping in front of him, guarding him.
"Fuck you." I spoke up.
I felt my gun in my leather jacket, still remaining in its pocket.
"FUCK YOU!" I screamed.
I was about to pull out the gun until Ponyboy ran over, placing his hand over my arm, knowing full well what I planned to do. I saw the fear and sadness in Pony's eyes. I felt him remove my hand from the pocket, lowering my arm so that it remained at my side. The officer slowly made a move towards Dallas' lifeless body, and I just about lost it.
"DON'T YOU FUCKING TOUCH HIM YOU BASTARDS!" I hollered.
"JACK NO!" Pony cried.
I ran at the officer's until I was being held back by Darry himself. I struggled against Darry kicking my legs, making it absolutely difficult for him to hold me back. Soon enough, Two-Bit joined in, having to hold my legs together, so that I couldn't kick at anyone.
I wanted to kill these men, they deserved it! I WANTED TO KILL THEM ALL- -
Suddenly, I felt a tightness in my chest, spreading throughout my body. I froze almost immediately, staring up into the sky.
Fuck...everything hurts...
"She stopped movin'..." Steve mumbled.
Darry loosened his grip as well as Two-Bit, both of them lowering me to the ground as they saw the look on my face.
"Jackie?" Darry looked concerned.
My body twitched slightly, the tightness in my chest getting worse by the minute. Darry put his ear against my chest, his eyes widened when he pulled back.
"Shit. She's having a heart attack!" Darry cursed.
"A what?!" Soda yelled in shock.
Two-Bit glared at the officer's.
"WELL DO SOMETHING!" He shouted.
The officer's snapped out of it, two of them moving over to Dallas, the other two moving over to me as they began talking in their radios for an ambulance.
"Jackie just hang in there!" Darry looked into my eyes.
"Just hang in there!"
I felt myself sitting up, my body aching as I held my head. Everything was cloudy, making it very difficult to see anything surrounding me. It was also odd, how the entire area was just pure white. There was nothing, no sound...just nothing.
"Hey Angel Face."
I looked over, seeing Dallas walk over to me from the distance that never seemed to end. He held out his hand, helping me up from the ground.
Where the fuck am I?
"I didn't expect you to die from a heart attack, you know." Dallas sighed.
Dally pulled out a cig and lit it, offering me one as well. I shook my head, and he put the pack away.
"...I'm dead?" I finally spoke up.
"Yeah...it was kind of sad to watch actually." Another voice joined in.
I turned around to see Johnny Cade himself, I nearly felt myself crying. Johnny looked great, almost like what happened at the church had never occured. I went over to Johnny, hugging him tightly.
"Oh Johnny. I missed you so much." I cried.
Johnny returned the hug, rubbing my back soothingly.
"I missed you too. I'm sorry we couldn't see each other under better circumstances." Johnny sighed.
"So...where are we?" I asked.
"We're in the afterlife, babe." Dally wrapped an arm around my shoulder. "I mean...I guess I'd consider it heaven...it's completely white...I fuckin' hate it, man. It's just so bland."
"Oh shut it Dal. You're scarin' her." Johnny scolded his friend.
"Shit...sorry." Dal cursed when he saw the look on my face.
"So...so I'm really dead?" I muttered.
"Yeah." Johnny nodded sadly.
"I- -I can't be dead!" I stammered.
"Well it's possible, and it literally just happened." Dally chuckled. "I mean, hey, at least you've got us right?"
"Why are you being such a dick right now?! I fucking love you and you went and got yourself killed!" I cried.
Dallas raised his hands up in surrender before he dropped the cig and put it out. Dallas slowly came over to me, growing serious as he place his forehead against mine.
"I'm sorry babe...I just...I couldn't take it. Losin' Johnny...it broke me. He was like the younger brother I didn't have." Dally mumbled.
I nodded in understanding, giving Dallas a small kiss.
"Aw...that's all I get from you?" Dally smirked.
I gave Dallas another kiss, both of us wrapping our arms around each other as our tongues danced together passionately. Johnny coughed behind us, making us stop and pull away.
"Why do you gotta ruin my fun, kid?" Dally sighed.
"Because she's gotta get going, that's why." Johnny rolled his eyes.
"What do you mean get going? I thought I was dead." I grew confused.
Dally's eyes widened from surprise as he stared at me, before he began grinning from what seemed to be happiness and relief.
"I guess it ain't yer time yet, Angel Face." Dally chuckled.
I looked down at my body, noticing a faint glow to it, my body was fading away slowly.
"Johnny! Dallas! What's happening?!" I panicked.
"Relax, babe. You're just going back to the world of the living." Dallas winked.
"Listen, Jack...I wanted to tell you something before you go." Johnny started.
"What?" I asked.
"Stay golden- -"
"We've got a heart beat! She's stable!"
My eyes cracked open, I saw blurred figures hovering over me and grew scared.
"She's waking up!"
"Miss Heffer. Do you remember anything?"
"D...Dally..." I barely whispered.
"Put her on oxygen."
I kept groaning, crying for Dallas and Johnny, trying to form a sentence and ask where they were for the next five minutes.
"Give her a light a anesthetic."
"Miss Heffer. We're going to put you to sleep so you can get some rest alright?"
I felt my eyes closing again.
I opened my eyes again, I noticed a breathing mask over my face. I made a move to sit up, but was gently pushed back down.
"Guys. She's awake." Soda smiled.
The gang surrounded my hospital bed, looking happy to see me awake and breathing.
"Jesus, woman. You gave us one hell of a scare." Two-Bit sighed in relief.
"God damn, I knew you was a fighter." Steve grinned.
"She's always been a fighter- -"
"Give her some space guys." Darrel spoke up. "She looks overwhelmed."
"...Pony..." I muttered.
Ponyboy shot up from his seat, coming over to me and grabbing my hand. I gave him a small smile, and squeezed his hand.
"I'm...I'm so glad you're here." I told him.
Ponyboy began tearing up, before he gave me a smile as well.
"I thought I lost you too. Scare me like that again, and I'll kick your ass." Pony joked.
"Like I'd let you, kid." I played along.
"Miss Heffer."
We all turned to look at the doctor in the doorway, realizing it was the same doctor that took care of me before after the church burnt down.
"I'm glad to see that you're awake."
I took off the mask on my face providing me with oxygen and sat up in my bed carefully.
"What's up doc? Am I gonna make it?" I chuckled faintly.
"I think you'll be fine. I was surprised that you had a heart attack, especially someone at a young age. I think it was because you were scared. It's not uncommon to have a heart attack when you get spooked, or in your case get the shock of your life. But it's a little odd because it tends to happen more with older people. I think as long as you remain calm and relaxed, you should recover quickly and be okay. You shouldn't have been moving to begin with based off of your other injuries from Windrixville, which might have contributed to the stress on your body, so I want you to stay on bed rest when you get home. We're going to keep you here overnight for observation." The doctor informed me.
"Sounds fun." I rolled my eyes.
"Also, I think it would be best if you had someone take care of you when you get home. You really shouldn't stress your body anymore than you have."
With that, the doctor left the room.
"I guess you'll just have to move in with us for the time being, won't you?" Darrel smiled.
I gave Darry a look of surprise, but shook my head.
"That's real nice of you to offer, Darry, but I can't do that." I refused.
"Why not? You heard what the doctor said." He frowned.
"And I'll do just fine at Buck's."
"You really think Buck's place is the best place to 'relax'?" Steve scoffed. "He throws parties constantly. It ain't no place for you to be."
I let go of Ponyboy's hand.
"Well I don't know where the hell you expect me to go then. That's where I live, that's where my stuff is."
And Dally's stuff...
"Just stay with us, Jackie. We'll go get your stuff." Soda offered. "You can live with us for the time being. It'd be nice to have a womanly touch to the place." He smiled.
"Oh don't you start giving me that charmin' smile, Sodapop Curtis." I chuckled.
"Is it working?" He winked.
"It might be." I smirked.
"Oh stop your flirting!" Two-Bit whined. "Be serious here guys."
"Finally, we have someone talking some sense." Darry nodded.
"If anyone's charming, it sure as hell ain't Soda. It's me!" He laughed.
Darrel sighed and pinched his nose, trying to be patient.
"Either way, I'm going back to Buck's..." I grew serious again.
"Jackie...please." Ponyboy mumbled.
I glanced over at Ponyboy, watching him get annoyed and saddened at the same time.
"Stop being so damn proud and just let us help you. Alright? We care about you. You're family." Ponyboy said.
I smiled at Ponyboy, playfully punching his arm.
"I think Ponyboy is the most charming." I teased. "He's got a way with words."
I sat up straight, ignoring the looks of worry everyone gave me before I got comfortable and folded my arms.
"Alright. If you're hellbent on having me stay with you guys...then fine." I finally agreed.
Darry and Soda smiled approvingly at me, happy with my decision.
"But I'll be picking up my stuff from Buck's first. No arguments. There's something I gotta do..."
"Like what?" Steve asked.
"Like none of your business." I snapped.
"Alright, alright. Fine. But one of us is gonna help you pack." Darry grew serious.
"I wish I could, but me and Steve got work tomorrow morning." Soda frowned.
"Ponyboy's got school tomorrow, so we'll have to rule him out." Darry said.
Ponyboy glared at Darry, angry that he made his decision for him.
"Guess it's all up to ol' Two-Bit." Two-Bit smirked.
"Alright then, it's decided? Two-Bit goes with you to help you pack your stuff up." Darry told me.
"Fine." I nodded.
And then it hit me.
Dally's ring...where the fuck is it?!
I searched the bed frantically, watching the boys get worked up over me.
"Where is it?" I asked worriedly.
"Where's what?" Steve asked.
"D...Da..." I frowned and closed my eyes.
I can't even say his name without getting upset...god damn it.
Ponyboy seemed to pick up on what I meant, and came over. Fishing into his pocket and pulling out Dally's ring.
"Here...I grabbed it before they took you away, you dropped it when...you know." Pony mumbled softly.
"Thank you." I blinked away tears. "I thought I lost the damn thing."
Everyone fell silent, recalling everything that had transpired over the last 24 hours. Two friends gone in one night, it was unsettling and depressing.
"I'm uh...I'm gonna get some shut eye. I'll see you tomorrow, Two-Bit. Bye guys..."
I laid down, pulling the covers over myself, waiting for everyone to leave. I looked down at Dally's ring in my hand, growing more upset by the second.
I can't believe he's gone...
The next morning, Two-Bit came with a change of clothes he'd borrowed from his sister. I gladly took the clean clothes, keeping everything else in a plastic bag after putting on my leather jacket. Two-Bit and I went slowly, going at a small pace because I needed to. Most of my body remained sore, but I ignored it, continuing on my way to Buck's. Soon enough, we made it there, but the inside wasn't as cheerful as it once was before. There were depressed and gloomy faces around the joint, but after seeing my face, everyone lit up and stood up all at once.
"Heffer!"
"Jackie you're okay!"
"It's good to see ya kid."
Buck came over to me, placing a small key into my palm.
Jeez...I don't think I've ever seen Buck so sober before...
"Listen, uh...Heffer. I- -uh. I wanted you to have this. I know how much Winston meant to you. I thought you should be the one to clean out his room. He'd probably want you and your little gang to have his belongings anyway." Buck mumbled.
I stared at Buck and nodded, placing the key into my pocket. Two-Bit followed as I walked upstairs heading down the hall until I reached my room. And so for the next half hour, Two-Bit and I unpacked what stuff I had with me. Most of it was just clothing, but other stuff was what belonged to my mother before she passed away. Two-Bit left to find more stuff in the bathroom to take with us, and I slowly snuck out as he ranted on about Mickey Mouse being on TV later today. I grabbed the key and slowly turned it within the lock. I held my breath, walking into Dallas' room for the first time since Bob was killed. I picked up some clothes left on the floor, lifting them up to my face and smelling Dally's scent. It was almost comforting, almost like he was right there with me in the room.
"...what's...with the...the long face...Angel Face?"
My eyes widened as I dropped the shirt, tears springing into my eyes as I whirled around kicking the wooden dresser, making go several feet away before turning over. Soon enough I'm just throwing shit across the room in absolute anger. Finally, I punched a hole in the wall. I took back my fist, holding it to my chest before I slid to the floor, closing my eyes tightly.
Why'd you leave me Dal?
"Jackie? Babe, what the hell were you thinkin'?" Two-Bit asked worriedly.
"I'm fine." I muttered weakly.
"Sure you are. Now let me see your hand." Two-Bit held out his hand.
I gave Two-Bit my hand, watching him inspect it and touch it gingerly.
"You really did a number on this place huh?"
"I just...I'm so angry." I nearly growled.
"We all are." Two-Bit mumbled softly. "I'm real sorry this happened, darlin'. I knew Dal liked yah."
"I saw it in his face...he wanted to die. I never saw him look so peaceful before in my life." I lowered my voice.
Two-Bit's eyes widened at this, and he quickly wiped his eyes.
"Let's say we get you fixed up and watch some Mickey huh?" He tried to smile.
"Can I clean up his room first?" I asked.
"Later. We've been here long enough and you got the key. We'll come back, I promise."
I nodded before Two-Bit helped me up from the floor. Two-Bit waited by the doorway, but I stood there frozen for several seconds. I glanced down, picking up the shirt I had dropped earlier. I quickly shrugged off my leather jacket and the shirt I was currently wearing, before putting on one of Dally's favorite shirts. After fixing the necklace with his ring on, I put back on my leather jacket, helping Two-Bit carry my belongings as we locked up the room and left.
After getting to the Curtis', I took some painkillers and antibiotics, falling asleep on the couch in the living room as Two-Bit sat on the floor in front of the TV with a beer and plate of chocolate cake that Soda had made. It might have been four hours later that I saw Ponyboy come inside from school. I groggily sat up as I watched Ponyboy storm into his room. I got up as Two-Bit was distracted by the TV and slowly made my way to Pony's room.
"Hey, Pone. What's wrong?" I spoke up.
Ponyboy looked at me with a frown evident on his face.
He's upset about something, that's for sure.
"I'm fine. Just peachy." He grumbled.
I shut the door and sat on his bed with him.
"Don't get wise." I glared at him. "Tell me what's wrong."
"I was just...there were some Soc's talkin' about Johnny. I got real angry about it." He confessed.
"Do you know their names?" I asked.
"It was some of Randy's friends..." He muttered.
"You mean Bob Sheldon's friend Randy?" I clarified.
"Yeah." He nodded.
"Alright then."
I shakily got up from Ponyboy's bed, making my way out until I got to the front door. Ponyboy and Two-Bit followed me quickly, catching up to me as I made it down the steps connecting to the front porch.
"Jackie! Where are ya goin'?" Two-Bit yelled.
"Jackie!" Ponyboy called out.
I felt a cramp in my leg and fell to my knees, holding my limb as I hissed from the pain.
"Where the hell do you think you're going?" Two-Bit asked again.
"I just got some business I need to take care of, Keith." I mumbled.
"You're thinkin' of going after Randy aren't you?" Ponyboy looked worried.
"Naah. I just want to have a little talk with the guy is all." I feigned innocence.
Soon enough, Soda and Steve arrived down the street and came over, wondering what was going on.
"Hey guys, what's up?" Soda smiled.
Soda's smile faded as he saw me struggling to stand up and quickly came over to help.
"What the hell's she doing out here guys?" Soda questioned.
"She's tryin' to pick a fight with that Soc Randy, that's what." Two-Bit grumbled.
"And you're lettin' her?" Steve raised an eyebrow.
"No! We were tryin' to stop her!" Pony argued.
I rolled my eyes as the boys argued and pulled away from Soda, continuing to make my way down the street. It took about a minute or so until they quit their bickering and saw me half way down the road, turning at a corner.
"Shit! We gotta stop her!" Steve cursed.
"Jackie!" They yelled.
I continued to ignore them, ignoring the waves of pain.
Those assholes think they can get away with talkin' about Johnny like that?
"HEY!"
Johnny was a good kid. He was innocent!
"Get back here!"
I'll kill those motherfucke- -
I'm finally grabbed from behind, turned around until I'm looking directly into Soda's vibrant blue eyes.
"Would you stop and think for one damn minute, Jack?!" Soda snapped.
"They're all going on trial about Bob's murder. You also. You might want to think about keepin' yourself out of trouble." Two-Bit added.
"Those bastards don't have the right to talk about Johnny!" I panted.
"Just stop okay?! We've lost enough of our gang, you trying to take on those assholes is suicide!" Ponyboy shouted.
I fell silent, wondering where this confidence in Ponyboy came from.
I mean, I guess being on the run for murder would probably change a guy. Plus going into a burning building to save some kids...
I closed my eyes resisting the urge to pull away from Sodapop as I thought this over.
As much as I want to...Ponyboy's right. I've gotta keep cool...I can't...I can't be so angry all the time. I'm turning into Dallas...
I laughed at the irony of it all, tears springing into my eyes as I grew sad from the thought of Dallas.
That fucking bastard...he's haunting me even from the dead.
"Uh...is she alright?" Steve cautiously asked.
"Jack?" Soda gently shook me.
"Maybe it's her meds?" Two-Bit suggested.
I wiped my eyes, and smiled cruelly.
"I'm so damn angry...it hurts..." I laughed dryly. "How can things get any worse than this?"
"Jack." Soda mumbled softly. "Come here darlin'."
Soda pulled me in for a hug, rubbing my back in an attempt to comfort me. I pulled away instantly as I staggered back a little.
"I don't want your damn pity, Curtis! Shove it up your ass!" I nearly growled.
I turned around and started walking away again, this time no one came to stop me.
I tried listening to Ponyboy, making sure to avoid going to the south side where the Soc's resided in. Instead, I went to the Dingo to cool off, ordering a burger and drinking milkshake. In an attempt to clear my head, I just stayed there the entire day, ignoring the looks I received from the waitresses.
"Well look who it is."
I glanced up to see Dallas' ex standing before me.
Sylvia...
Sylvia gave me a saucy little smirk as she took a seat in the booth with me.
"How have yah been, Heffer? I'm glad you guys killed that Soc. The dick had it coming." She chuckled.
I ate some more French fries, afraid that I'd say something nasty in reply.
"What's wrong?" She glared at me.
I swallowed my food down, and returned the glare.
"Get the fuck out of here, Syl. I ain't in the mood to deal with you. Especially you of all people."
Sylvia's eyes narrowed before she glanced down to see Dally's ring hanging off of my necklace.
"Where the fuck did you get that?" She hissed. "If anything, that ring belongs to me."
"To you?" I scoffed. "You're a fuckin' two-timin' whore that would spread her legs for anyone. Why the fuck would Dallas give this back to you? You ruined your chance with him. That's one thing he liked about me. Unlike you, I'm loyal."
"What the hell did you say to me? You've got some balls, Heffer."
Soon enough, I'm being tackled to the floor, both of us going all out and beating the shit out of each other. Finally, I got the strength to pull her off, grabbing her by the hair as I slammed her face on the table.
"You sure you wanna fight me? I might still be injured, but I'll kick your skanky little ass." I growled.
Sylvia looked upset now, struggling against me, but I only pinned her down to the table more roughly.
"If I see you again, I won't hesitate to finish what I started. I'm tired, two people that I loved are fucking dead, and I just want to eat my god damn dinner if that's alright with you." I spoke lowly into her ear.
Sylvia nodded frantically her eyes widening as I finally released her. She quickly walked out of the Dingo, not daring to look back. Finally, I managed to calm down, sitting back in the booth like I had before.
"Jackie? That you?"
Steve's girlfriend Evie cautiously came over and she gingerly touched my shoulder.
"Shit...you got a huge cut on your fucking face. Let me clean it for you."
I waved her hand away, drinking the rest of my milkshake.
"Nah. Leave it. I'll be okay." I muttered.
"So...how are you doing?" She hesitantly asked.
"Fucking peachy keen." I grumbled.
"Listen...I'm sorry about Johnny and Dal. I knew how much you loved them. Ignore Sylvia, she's just upset over Dallas too."
I merely nodded in reply, biting my tongue so I didn't say anything to scare Evie.
Fuck Sylvia, that bitch.
"Hey...can you help me up?" I mumbled softly.
I blushed as I averted my gaze, feeling embarrassed.
"What?" She looked confused.
"I need some help to get up. I...it hurts to move." I told her.
Evie blushed as she finally understood, moving over and putting her arms under my shoulders, helping me out of the booth.
"Where to?"
"I'll just walk home. I'll be okay, Evie." I smiled at her.
"There's no way you'll be able to walk home by yourself, Jackie. Let me drive you okay? I'll borrow my boss's car. He won't mind." She told me.
I nodded in reply.
"Jackie!"
"Here you go fellas." Evie smiled at the gang. "Special delivery."
"Jesus Christ, what the hell happened?" Two-Bit asked.
Soda and Steve helped me over to the couch, laying me down carefully.
"She got into a bit of a scuffle with Sylvia. Jackie didn't start the fight, don't worry. I saw the whole thing. The bitch was askin' for it. If anything, Jackie let her go easy." Evie explained.
"Oh really?" Soda raised an eyebrow.
"Shut the hell up." I replied groggily.
"Jeez...she looks ready to pass out." Steve muttered. "Thanks for bringing her, babe. I'll see you tomorrow."
Evie smiled, giving Steve a kiss before she walked out, driving back to the Dingo.
"Jack...what the hell were you thinkin'?" Soda sighed.
"I was thinkin' I could actually eat my dinner in peace, but Sylvia had other plans." I retorted.
"We're gonna have to start layin' some ground rules, if this is how you'll be acting." Darry finally spoke up.
"I didn't even do anything." I rolled my eyes.
"So what happened earlier was just our imagination?" Steve scoffed.
"Watch it, Randle." I hissed at him.
"No Jackie. He's right." Soda defended Steve. "I understand that you're upset, no one expects you to bounce back right away after what happened, but you've gotta keep a level head. You need to recover, have some time to grieve."
"I'm perfectly fine." I smiled tensely.
"Right sure." Two-Bit chuckled sarcastically. "I think you're perfectly sane!"
"Well thank you, Keith!" I flipped him off.
"Jacqueline Audrey Heffer!" Darrel shouted.
I flinched at Darry's tone, knowing that he now meant business.
Jesus, he sounds like my dad, well...a better dad.
"Your middle name's Audrey?" Steve muttered.
"Shut it, Steve." Darry snapped. "I swear to everything holy that I'll strap you to that couch if it means you'll recover! You're like our sister, we're worried sick over you! If you don't stop it, you'll be dead yourself! Is that what you want?! You never think! You never consider how everyone else is feelin'! You think you're the only one that misses Johnny and Dallas?"
I sat up and glared at Darry.
"I know. I'm just a fuck up, right? I'm so sorry that I ain't perfect." I grumbled.
"I told this to Soda and Ponyboy when our parents died. You just don't stop living because you lose someone. We're all here for you, Jackie, we'll always be here. You're family." Darry lowered his voice.
I stopped glaring at Darry, my expression softening as I nodded in understanding.
"Alright..." I nodded again. "I'll just...I'll try. My mind's been racing since they...I just don't know...I don't have a fucking clue what I'm doing anymore. But you're right...Johnny wouldn't want me to be like this." I mumbled softly.
"Good. I just want you to try...for them." Darry put his hand on top of mine.
"I'll try. But don't get your hopes up...I'm just a mentally unstable girl." I chuckled.
"That we can agree on." Two-Bit joked.
Soon enough, we're all laughing, the mood slightly lightening up.
I hope this chapter was okay. I worked really hard on it! Please don't be too harsh with the reviews!