Surprise, I have an update:
Just a reminder, it's a mostly a character driven story that focuses on the characters, and their backstories to drive the narrative
The next day over at the Vega home, the epitome of high school royalty stands in front of her vanity, a full-length mirror, Tori meticulously examines herself. She adjusts her skirt, making sure to show off her long, toned legs and sure enough to get eyes on her without breaking the dress code, her outfit, is a perfect blend of trendy and sexy that's designed to turn heads. Her long brown locks are perfectly styled to her back, her makeup is flawless, and her nails are polished. In the background, the faint sound of music plays from her phone. She smirks, "All eyes on your queen Hollywood Arts", she thinks to herself, dripping with arrogance.
The room is immaculately organized, with a large, plush bed adorned with luxurious, colorful pillows and a silk comforter. The walls are a collage of framed photographs and posters, featuring glamorous shots of herself at various events, interspersed with pictures of her friends and family. A vanity table, cluttered with high-end makeup and beauty products, sits beneath a large, ornate mirror that reflects the room's opulence. Shelves line one wall, filled with trophies, awards, and memorabilia from her performances and achievements that showcase her dominance in Hollywood Arts. Despite the room's polished appearance, there are personal touches that hint at a softer side: a well-worn teddy bear from childhood, a stack of beloved vinyl records, and a hidden corner where she keeps mementos of her late mother, including a delicate locket and an old family photo from happier days.
As she left her room, she knocked on the door beside hers, "Lo, you ready?" Tori asked, as loud rock music echoes from the other side.
Behind that door was Lola, room is a chaotic blend of brilliance and disorder, a reflection of her sharp mind and artistic soul. The walls are cluttered with framed medals, certificates, and awards from academic competitions and art exhibits, proudly on display yet half-forgotten beneath layers of sketches, notes, and open textbooks scattered across every surface. Her nightstand is a small island of personal moments, covered in photos of her and Beck, some neatly framed, others casually tucked beneath her favorite novel. Paint splatters stain the floor, and her bed is unmade, a mix of crumpled sheets and discarded clothes. Despite the mess, everything feels like it belongs, as if chaos is the only order Lola truly understands.
Lola's jet-black hair cascaded in loose waves down just below her shoulders, with a few strands dyed electric blue and burgundy. She kneeled by her bed, pushing her personal chest under her mattress, and pocketing the key. She sighed heavily, before picking herself up, tugging her favorite black Metallica tee, their debut album emblazoned across the front, and paired it with a plain black skirt that barely reached mid-thigh, showcasing her long, toned legs like Tori's. Lola rummaged through her closet and pulled out a pair of black stockings, carefully slipping them on. Her fingers worked slowly as she laced up her well-worn combat boots, the leather creaking with each movement. Lola's heavy black eyeliner with added an added touch of crimson lipstick, completes her signature aesthetic. She reached for her choker, fastening it around her neck, and grabbed her leather jacket that was decorated with pins and patches that represented her favorite bands and personal mottos She slipped on a pair of fingerless gloves and pocketed her phone. Finally, she grabbed her backpack, slinging it over one shoulder. It was heavy with textbooks and her sketchbook, always ready to capture a fleeting moment of inspiration. She looked at herself in the mirror, clinching her jaw, breathing heavily before masking it with her usual tough persona.
As Lola opened the door, she met her twin outside, "Kept you waiting huh?" Lola said with a smirk, etched on her face. "Why do you always have to look like a damn Barbie doll, Ria?" she teased, her dark eyes sparkling with mischief. "Do you ever get tired of looking like a fashion magazine threw up on you?"
Tori rolled her eyes, "Do you ever get tired of looking like someone from around when we were still in Kansas?"
Lola chuckled, her laugh a melodious sound that filled the room. "Touché. But seriously, why do you always have to look so... I don't know—polished?"
"Because I need to keep my reputation as the prettiest girl in school." Tori replied with a mock air of superiority.
"Dumbass, we share the same face, I'm as pretty as you are." Lola chuckle.
"Yeah, but you scare a lot of people." Tori laughs, "Besides, it's not like you couldn't pull off something a bit more, trendy if you wanted to. Ever think of trading those worn-out boots for a pair of heels?"
"Not gonna fucking happen. You're ridiculous enough already. How about you wear something more comfortable?"
Tori chuckles, "How about this? We switch styles for once and—"
"Whoever gives in first has to do the other's chores for a month."
"Deal!" the two said simultaneously as they shared a laugh.
"Girls, breakfast is ready!" Trina shouts from downstairs.
"Coming!" the twins said in unison.
The aroma of freshly cooked bacon and scrambled eggs wafted through the Vega household, filling the air with the warmth of familiarity. Trina stood at the stove, humming to herself as she flipped the strips of bacon onto a plate. The sizzle of the pan was a soothing background to her contented thoughts.
"Smells amazing, Trina." Lola remarked as the twins sauntered into the kitchen, her dark hair falling effortlessly over her shoulders.
"Yeah, for once, you didn't burn the bacon." Tori added, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she followed her sister in. Despite her sharp tone, her eyes softened at the sight of Trina bustling around the kitchen. Trina rolled her eyes but smiled, "You're hilarious, Tori. But thanks, Lola."
"You gonna eat that bacon or are you just gonna stare at them?" Lola teased; her voice laced with a sweetness that didn't quite reach her eyes.
Tori rolled her eyes, smirking as she stabbed a piece of meat with her fork. "I was just thinking about how much better they'd be if you weren't sitting across from me ruining my appetite."
"Oh, please." Lola shot back, leaning back in her chair with a mockingly offended look. "You know you love me. I'm the best part of your miserable little life."
"You're the worst." Tori corrected, but the affection in her tone was unmistakable. She took a bite of the meat, making an exaggerated show of savoring it. "But these bacons? They almost make up for your existence."
"Almost?" Trina chimed in from the stove, turning around to face them with a spatula in hand. "I slaved over a hot stove for you two brats every morning. You should be worshipping me right now."
"We do, Trina." Lola replied with a grin, "In our own, ungrateful way."
Trina shook her head, chuckling as she turned back to the stove. "I swear, I don't know how I ended up as the responsible one in this family. If Mom were here—"
The room fell silent, the lighthearted atmosphere evaporating as quickly as it had come. Tori's fork hovered over her plate, and Lola's smile faded, replaced by something somber that flickered behind her eyes.
"Mom would say—" Tori began, her voice softer now, "—that you're doing a good job." She smiles.
"Yeah." Lola agreed, her tone less biting than usual. "She'd be proud of you, Trina. We both are."
Trina turned back to them as she smiled. "Thanks, guys. It means a lot." She smiles, "So, are you two ready for school? Your senior year's almost over, you know. And of course, who can forget my baby sisters are in the spotlight." The twins smirked as they looked into each other's eyes. "For Valedictorian, Lola Samantha Vega, and to close out the Senior Showcase, "Victoria Dawn Vega!" Trina cheered, as her sisters sulked in the praise acting as they would in front of a crown before the three broke into laughter.
"I can't wait actually" Lola replied, her tone lightening as she picked up a piece of bacon and bit into it. "One more week,and Hollywood Arts can kiss my tan ass goodbye."
Tori chuckled, the sound light and melodic as she reached for a piece of toast. "Amen to that, sis! I'm so done with all the bullshit. Just one more week with those guys then we're out of there."
"Right? The way those girls follow you around, Ria, it's like they think being near you will make them relevant or something." Lola's teased
"Please, they're just jealous because I have what they never will; talent, looks, and the balls to say what I think." Tori shot back, flipping her hair over her shoulder.
Lola raises her eyebrow, "You also got their boyfriends' balls in your mouth..." she mutters.
"What did you say?"
Lola laughs, shrugging. "What? It's true."
Trina watched her sisters, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "Well, don't get too famous." she joked. "I still need you two to clean up your rooms before you leave."
"Yeah, yeah." Lola waved her off, grinning as she took another bite of bacon. "You sound just like Mom when you say that."
Tori smiles, "You know what, Trina? You're right. We'll be famous and clean our rooms—just for you."
Trina laughed, a genuine, light sound that broke the tension and filled the room with warmth again. "I'll hold you to that."
The sound of their banter filled the kitchen with warmth. Moments like this that they cherished, the brief interludes of normalcy in a life that had been anything but for the past few years.
As they ate, the conversation turned to lighter topics: school gossip, upcoming events, their plans for after graduation. But as the laughter died down and the plates were cleared, the absence of their father became more noticeable. David Vega was usually first on the table, his stern presence often comforting. Tori's eyes flicked to the empty chair at the head. "Where's Dad? He's usually here by now."
Lola paused, her fork halfway to her mouth, mirroring Tori's concern. "Yeah, he never skips breakfast."
Trina sighed, her expression sobering. "He left early this morning. Said something about a case. He's been really into his work lately, more than usual."
"Probably still obsessed with Mom's case." Lola muttered, her tone laced with bitterness. "It's like he can't move on."
Tori's face hardened, her playful demeanor disappearing. "Can you blame him? It's been almost three years, and they still haven't found who did it. I'd be obsessed too. Not to mention, the Boogeyman."
Trina looked down at her plate, "I just wish he'd talk to us about it instead of burying himself in work. It's like he's barely here anymore."
Silence fell over the table, the weight of their mother's absence and the unresolved case pressing down on them. For a moment, the warmth in the kitchen was replaced by a cold, lingering unease. Trina was the first to break the silence, forcing a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "Well, at least we've got each other, right? And hey, you two are almost done with high school. Just imagine the three of us in college next year." she said cheerfully. Tori nodded, though her mind was elsewhere. Trina noticed the change in Tori's expression and reached across the table to squeeze her hand. "Hey, it's going to be okay. We'll get through this together; like we always do."
"Thanks, Tri." Tori squeezed back,
Lola finished the last of her coffee and stood up, grabbing her bag from the back of her chair. "We should get going. Don't want to be late for the shitshow."
Tori nodded, following suit as she grabbed her own bag. "Yeah, I've got some faces to ruin today." She winked at Trina, her diva persona back in full force. "Thanks for breakfast, sis."
Trina smiled, but there was a sadness in her eyes as she watched them head for the door. "Have a good day, you two. And be careful, okay?"
Lola paused at the doorway, turning back to give Trina a reassuring smile. "Always am."
Tori lingered for a moment, her hand on the doorknob as she looked back at Trina. "Love you, Tri."
"Love you too, Tori."
"Ready to raise some hell?" Lola asked, glancing over at Tori with a wicked grin stepping out their door.
Tori returned the smile, her eyes gleaming with a dangerous light. "Always."
A honk pierced the morning calm, followed by the unmistakable purr of Ryder's car pulling into the driveway.
Lola's lips curled into a mischievous grin. "Showtime."
The twins stepped out into the bright morning, the California sun warm against their skin, as they spotted the two resident heartthrobs at the school. Ryder Daniels leaned against his sleek black converter, sunglasses perched atop his tousled dark hair, his camera hanging from his neck, a cocky smirk on his lips.
Beck Oliver sat on the back, his long flowing hair slicked back, exuding his usual calm demeanor.
"Morning, ladies." Ryder drawled taking pictures of the twins.
"Morning dumbass." Lola greeted grinning "Did you just take a pictures of us walking out the house?"
"Hey, it's for the yearbook. You know Principal Eikner wants this class to be documented to perfection."
"And as the school's photographer, he needs to capture the hottest and most popular girl that ever walked into those walls." Tori arrogantly chimed in.
"Damn right, I do." Ryder smiled, pulling Tori into a swift, passionate kiss. "Ready to rule the school?"
Tori laughed, her eyes sparkling. "Always, babe."
Lola's smile disappeared when her eyes landed on Beck. "C'mon let's go." she said.
Beck leaned over to catch Lola's gaze as she slipped into the back seat next to him."Hey." he said softly, smiling at her. "Missed you."
"Did you?" Lola quipped, raising an eyebrow as she closed the door behind her. Her tone was light, flirtatious, but there was a flicker in her eyes that spoke to the string of arguments they'd left unfinished.
Ryder pulled away from the curb, and the four settled into their usual rhythm, the car filling with light banter, talk of finals, the upcoming showcase, and graduation. Beck reached out, squeezing Lola's hand briefly, but she barely reacted. She just looked out the window, an unreadable expression in her eyes.
"So, what's on today's agenda?" Ryder asked, behind the wheel.
"Same stuff, different day." Tori sighed, flipping through her phone. "Gotta deal with the usual idiots."
"I'm worried about the Senior Showcase you know." Beck admitted. "We've still got so much to do."
Lola rolled her eyes, "You worry too much. Why don't you ask the latest bitch you've been with to help you out."
Ryder chuckled, glancing at Beck and Lola with a grin. "She's right, man. You two gotta sort your shit out. It's getting ridiculous at this point. I mean, think of all the parties we'll be hitting after, it's no good if you two are always each other's asses.
"Speaking of parties." Tori interjected, "We still need to figure out where we're celebrating after graduation. We should do something epic, something no one will forget."
"Like burning down Northridge to ashes?" Ryder joked, which garnered a laugh from them.
"Jokes aside, I can't believe we're almost done." Beck said, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. "Feels like just yesterday we were freshmen, trying to figure out which classes to skip, and where to go after."
"After graduation, the Vega sisters are about to be unleashed."
"Unleashed, huh?" Ryder chuckled glancing at her through the rear view mirror. "You sound like you're planning to wreak some serious havoc, Lo."
Lola shot him a playful look in the rearview mirror as well, "Maybe I am." Lola said. "Someone's gotta keep things interesting, right?"
"Yeah, well, try not to get us arrested before graduation, okay?" Tori said with a laugh.
Ryder turned up the radio, letting the music fill the car as they cruised through the neighborhood. The familiar jingle of the local station's news segment cut through the song, grabbing their attention.
The song on the radio faded, replaced by the somber voice of a news anchor. "This just in—two teenage girls were found dead early this morning in a residential neighborhood on Almaden Court. The identities of the victims have not yet been released, however, sources indicate that the LAPD is investigating the case as a double homicide. Speculations is that this is another work of the infamous unidentified Boogeyman of Hollywood. Could another two victims be added to the many who have lost their lives in the past two and a half years? More to report just ahead—"
The news anchor's voice droned on, but the car settled in silence.
Ryder's grip on the steering wheel tightened, while Beck shifted uncomfortably in his seat. Tori's mind flashed back to her father's early absence that morning, and she felt a knot of anxiety tighten in her stomach.
"Shit." Beck muttered, his brows furrowing. "That's messed up."
"Yeah, and it's close to home." Tori said.
"Maybe it's why dad wasn't at breakfast today." Lola followed nonchalantly, her eyes locked on the road ahead. "Probably had to head out to this scene. He always gets the juiciest cases."
"Yeah." Tori replied, her tone distracted. "Maybe."
Ryder reached over, giving Tori's leg a reassuring squeeze. "Don't worry about it, babe. We've got bigger things to focus on, like, the showcase, graduation, summer, and all the fun shit we've got planned."
"Exactly." Beck agreed, flashing a comforting smile. "We've got one week left. Let's not stress over it."
Tori nodded, though her mind still lingered on the news report. She shook it off, forcing a smile as she leaned into Ryder. "You're right. No point in freaking out over something we can't control." she said, her voice regaining its usual confident edge.
"Exactly, Ria." Lola said softly, "Don't freak the freak out."
"Tell me about it." Tori agreed, shaking her head. "I've got music club this first period, and I don't need this negativity."
"Of course, babe." Ryder soothed, squeezing her thigh. "You're gonna kill it."
Lola shrugged, her hand absently playing with the edge of her jacket. "We're doing something big for the film club. Something big that'll make us be remembered for a long time."
"Of course you are." Tori chimed in with a smirk. "You've always gotta be the center of attention, don't you, Lo?"
Lola rolled her eyes but couldn't help the smile that tugged at her lips. "Says the girl who's been planning her acceptance speech for the Senior Showcase since 10th grade."
"Hey, it's not my fault I'm a natural." Tori shot back, flipping her hair over her shoulder.
Ryder chuckled, his hand casually resting on Tori's thigh as he drove. "You two are something else, you know that? Always competing."
"Yeah, well, that's what makes us interesting." Lola said.
"What can I say? The spotlight loves me."
"And I love you." Ryder murmured, stealing a quick kiss at a red light.
Lola rolled her eyes playfully, chuckling, "You know if you two want me and lover boy here to fix our shit, you two tonguing each other's throat is not helping."
"Jealous?" Tori smirked.
Lola flicked her middle finger up, shaking her head, and smiling. The radio shifted back to music, the earlier news seemingly forgotten. They chatted animatedly about the upcoming Senior Showcase, Senior Ball graduation plans, and summer vacations.
Not too far from the Vega household is, Almaden Court, a quiet neighborhood, the kind where the sound of lawnmowers on Sunday mornings could be heard echoing from blocks away. Nestled near Briarwood Park, the houses were modest, each one a snapshot of suburban tranquility. White picket fences, well-manicured lawns, and the occasional tricycle left out on the sidewalk were standard sights here. It was the kind of neighbourhood where people waved to each other from their driveways, and where children played in the park without fear. But today, there was no laughter, no smiles, no chatters.
The calm of the morning was shattered by the flashing lights of police cruisers and the low hum of murmured conversations. Yellow crime scene tape cordoned off the area, fluttering gently in the breeze as if it were the only thing trying to maintain normalcy in the face of the horror inside. The once pristine lawn was now trampled by boots, and the front door stood slightly ajar, revealing glimpses of the chaos within.
Inside, the air was thick with the stench of blood, metallic and overpowering. The scent clung to the walls, the furniture, and the very fabric of the house as if the walls themselves had absorbed the violence that had taken place. The living room was a scene from a nightmare, a grotesque display that would haunt anyone who laid eyes on it.
A young teenager with brown hair hung upside down from the wooden beams of the living room ceiling, her once vibrant blue eyes now staring lifelessly at the floor below. Her body, gutted from sternum to pelvis was a gruesome sight, with her innards spilling out in a grisly waterfall. Her body was littered with stab wounds. Her throat had been slashed so deeply that her head was barely attached to her body, only hanging on by a few tendons and ligaments. The blood had dripped down to her fingers, as it pooled beneath her, soaking into the once cream-colored carpet, staining it a dark, sickly brown.
Another teen with blonde hair was no better off. Her body, too, was mutilated beyond recognition, her flesh torn open in deep, jagged gashes. She hung by a noose on her neck from a beam on the opposite side of the room, her lifeless form swaying ever so slightly as if taunting the investigators with its gruesome display. Blood had splattered across the walls, a violent spray that reached up to the ceiling and painted the room in crimson streaks. It was a scene from hell, a tableau of pain and suffering that no words could adequately describe.
Lieutenant David Vega stood in the living room, the weight of the scene pressing down on him like a physical force. He could feel it in his chest, a gnawing sensation that threatened to suffocate him. His eyes were locked on the bodies, his mind racing as he tried to process the horror before him. It was too similar.
"Same MO?" David questioned, his voice barely audible, as though it was being choked out of him.
"Yeah." His partner, Detective Gary warned, his tone firm but soft. The crime scene before them was a nightmare incarnate, a savage brutality that neither of them had except in a few cases. "It's him. Again."
David took the CSI team, "I want every piece of evidence. Hair. Blood. Fingerprints. Footprints. Any bodily fluids. I want every inch of the house combed so that we can put whoever did this to these girls behind bars." He ordered. "And get them down, cover them up. They're just kids. I don't want them displayed longer than necessary." David turned away from the scene, stepping outside into the cool morning air. It felt like a splash of cold water against his burning skin, but it did nothing to wash away the images seared into his mind. Gary followed, his brow wrinkled in concern as he watched his partner struggle to keep it together. "This is close to home," David said, his voice shaky. "Too close."
Gary nodded, leaning against the side of the house. "We found the victims IDs. Hayley Ferguson, and Tara Ganz. seventeen, seniors at Northridge High School." He said. "I just finished talking to Joseph Ferguson, Hayley's father. He's a wreck, understandably. Found his daughter and her friend like that—hell of a thing for a father to walk into. Said he was out all night. Got home around 5:30. Alibi seems solid for now. He was at work until closing, then spent the night at a friend's place drinking. I already had our guys check on it."
"Where does Ferguson work?" David questioned.
"You don't know?" Gary raised his eyebrows.
"Know what?"
Gary's face relaxes, "Oh, yeah. I forgot it for a second there. You weren't there when I picked up your girls after Lola went crazy." He pauses. "Joseph Ferguson is the owner of Karaoke Dokie, the same Karaoke Dokie where your twins go to."
David clenched his fists, the thought of his daughters—Tori and Lola—flashing through his mind. He felt a wave of nausea rise in his throat at the idea that this could have been them. That it still could be.
"What do we have for a murder weapon?" David asked, trying to focus on the details, on the work. It was the only way he knew to keep the fear at bay.
"Knife. Sharp as hell." Gary answered, his voice flat. "Deep cuts. Real deep. A lot of force behind them. Whoever this is, they know exactly what they're doing.
"Kitchen knife?"
Gary shook his head. "Too thin. The blade was thicker. Not something you'll find in a regular kitchen lying around. Probably brought it with them."
David straightens himself, "Like a hunting knife?"
Gary nods.
David's stomach dropped. He knew what that meant. He knew too well. He felt an all too familiar dread. This wasn't some random act of violence. It was deliberate. Methodical. It was him again. "Dammit!" David whispered, running a hand through his hair. He turned to Gary, his eyes pleading for some kind of reassurance, anything to tell him that this wasn't what it looked like. But Gary had nothing to offer.
The neighborhood, once so peaceful, now felt sinister. The rows of houses, identical in their suburban charm, suddenly seemed to be hiding dark secrets. David looked around, his eyes scanning the area as if expecting the killer to step out from the shadows, grinning at the carnage he'd left behind.
David's hand instinctively moved to his sidearm, the weight of the gun a small comfort amid the chaos. But it wasn't enough to quell the unease gnawing at him. This place was too close to home, and the victims were the same age as his daughters.
Gary placed a reassuring hand on David's shoulder, squeezing it gently. "We'll find the son of a bitch, Davey. He's bound to slip." he said, his tone leaving no room for doubt.
David nodded, he knew he had to keep it together, for the sake of his daughters, for the sake of the case. But as he looked back at the house, at the peaceful suburban street now marred by violence, he couldn't shake the feeling that this was only the beginning.
As they walked back to the Ferguson residence, David glanced over the house, its once welcoming exterior now a silent witness to the unspeakable horrors within. The crime scene was a stark reminder that the darkness that took Holly, and the one terrorizing the whole city of Los Angeles was still out there, lurking in the shadows, waiting for its next victim.
At Hollywood Arts, the parking lot was a mosaic of talent and privilege, where the elite of teenage artistry parked their cars and strutted toward the school's entrance as if walking down a red carpet. Custom-painted convertibles gleamed under the Los Angeles sun, the colors reflecting the individuality of their owners. Bright red, electric blue, and metallic gold—no two vehicles were the same. The students matched their rides, draped in designer clothes and unique outfits that screamed creativity and wealth.
As the school's most revered social royalty pulled into the parking lot, the atmosphere shifted. All conversation seemed to falter for a brief second. Then, like bees in a hive, it buzzed back up, louder and livelier, with heads turning, eyes tracing her every move. A mix of lust, envy, and admiration seemed to flow from every glance. A sleek black convertible rolled to a stop, and out stepped Tori, Ryder, Beck, and Lola. Gaze followed them, with the boys undressing Tori with their eyes while the girls studied every detail of her appearance, hoping to catch a glimpse of what made her the school's untouchable queen, the girl everyone desired, whether they'd admit it or not, envied for her looks, her voice, her confidence, and loathed for the way she wielded her assets like weapons.
"Fucking slut." one girl hissed under her breath, eyes narrowing as she watched Tori toss her long, glossy hair over her shoulder.
"She's so fucking perfect, it's disgusting." another girl muttered, her words laced with both admiration and resentment.
Tori well aware of the attention couldn't help but smirk. Every look, every whisper, was another stroke to her ego. She was every bit the diva, every bit the bitch they all knew her to be.
Lola on the other hand, had students waving and smiling at her. Ryder, walked around the car, sliding his arm possessively around Tori's waist, pulling her closer. Tori turned to him, her demeanor softening, with none of the venom she often spat at others.
"Babe, I swear, they're always staring at you." Ryder said, a playful chuckling.
Tori rolled her eyes, though the corners of her mouth curved into a smirk. "Let them stare. I mean look at me, right?"
Behind them, Lola and Beck walked a few paces back, both slightly offbeat. While Beck kept his face neutral, Lola's stare was sharp, her brow furrowed ever so slightly as her gaze landed on Beck before sliding away just as quickly. Their on-again, off-again rhythm had fallen more into "off" lately, and the silence between them seemed loaded with unsaid words, and unspoken accusations that simmered between polite exchanges.
"Seriously, are we doing this, Beck?" Lola finally muttered, her voice dripping with that impatient tone that only he could bring out of her.
Beck shoved his hands in his pockets, keeping his eyes ahead. "Doing what, Lo?" He answered coolly, as if her words didn't stir him. But his jaw clenched, and Lola noticed.
"Never mind." she scoffed, pushing her hair back and looking around at the students gathering around them, pretending to ignore the tension. She caught one of Tori's admirers gawking too long at her twin sister and threw him a sharp glare. He quickly looked away, muttering to his friends.
"Same crowd, different day." she muttered to herself, glancing at Beck. "Or maybe just same old bulls—"
"Hey." Tori interrupted, smirking as she looked back at them. "You two coming, or do we have to wait for your domestic spat to wrap up first?"
Lola rolled her eyes but quickened her pace, catching up to Tori and Ryder, who were already making their way toward the school's entrance. Beck followed a few steps behind, casting Lola a sidelong glance.
"Looks like everyone's out today to watch the queen arrive." Lola said, nudging Tori, a smirk tugging at her lips. The crowd's judgment and envy of her sister didn't faze her either.
"They can watch all they want, Lola." Tori murmured, glancing back at a group of guys who, one by one, each seemed to stop mid-conversation just to stare as she walked past. "Wouldn't be senior year without a little fanfare, right?"
Ryder grinned, leaning in close. "Or without a few idiots drooling over you. Makes it that much sweeter."
Beck scoffed lightly from behind, catching the exchange. "Right, because if there's anything this school's short on, it's inflated egos." he murmured under his breath, only loud enough for Lola to catch.
Lola raised an eyebrow, a quick, fierce grin flashing on her face. "Oh, Beck, don't pretend you don't love it." she said. "Maybe some of us just don't need the attention. Unlike some people who fucks a classmate the second we decided to go on break." Lola rolled her eyes. "Besides, not everyone can be 'Hollywood Arts' most desired heartthrob,' huh?" Lola quipped, a smile tugging at her mouth. But it faded just as fast. Their eyes met, and she looked away, uncomfortable in the quiet that followed.
As the group walked toward the entrance, the crowd parted like the Red Sea, every eye on them. Tori and Ryder led the way, the very picture of high school royalty, while Beck and Lola trailed behind a few feet apart.
A few steps ahead, a cluster of girls huddled together, their eyes glued to Tori as they whispered conspiratorially. "Did you see the way she looked at us? Like we're fucking trash." one girl snickers.
"Who does she think she is? Just because she's fucking Ryder doesn't mean she's all that." Another added, though her words lacked conviction.
"She's not just fucking Ryder, you know" the first girl followed.
"Yeah, but could you blame her?" the third chimed in, her voice low. "If I looked like her, I'd probably be a bitch too."
The group fell silent as Tori passed them, her presence commanding their attention despite their harsh words. Tori could hear the murmurs, the hiss of insults veiled by jealousy, but she didn't let them faze her. In her mind, they were beneath her.
"Lo, you, okay?" Tori asked, glancing back at her sister, noticing the slight tension in her shoulders.
Lola snapped out of whatever thought had momentarily distracted her and met Tori's gaze. "Yeah, just thinking about how this place is gonna be like a fucking ghost town without us next year."
Tori laughed, a genuine warm sound that was rare in Hollywood Arts. "Hollywood Arts is going to fall apart without us."
Lola smirked. "They'll be begging us to come back as guest speakers."
Ryder and Beck shared a look, one that was equal parts amusement and exhaustion. This was their life, watching the twins soak up the attention and turning heads wherever they went.
Inside the halls of the school were a colorful array of students, each showcasing their unique personalities and artistic styles with a constant buzz of creativity from rehearsing lines, strumming guitars, and practicing dance routines as they made their way to class. The walls were plastered with posters for upcoming performances, vibrant murals painted by the art students, and flyers for auditions. But amidst the creative vibrancy, there was an undercurrent of darkness—a social hierarchy as unforgiving as any you'd find in a regular high school. The students who roamed these halls were artists, performers, and creatives, but they were still vicious teenagers.
Jade stood at her locker, methodically arranging her books and supplies for the day. She wore her usual dark stylish outfits, her long straight hair falling over her back. Unlike many of her classmates, she didn't wear the school's eccentricity on her sleeve. The most noticeable thing about her was the quiet sadness in her eyes, a sadness she masked with indifference.
As she was focused on adjusting a small stack of notebooks, a group of boys slowed down near her, one of them had a smirk plastered across his face and threw out words in her direction, his voice dripping with venom. "Hey, West!" he called out, loud enough to draw attention from the other students. "When's the last time you got laid, huh?"
Jade's shoulders tensed, but she didn't turn around. She kept her eyes on her locker, pretending not to hear him, it wasn't even the worst thing she'd been called. But every time, it still cut deep.
Another voice chimed in. "Yeah, you look real' pretty and hot yourself, West, I'd bet I can turn you straight with one night, how about it?". The insult was met with tirades of laughter from the group.
Jade took a deep breath, swallowing the retort that burned at the back of her throat. She had learned long ago that fighting back only make things worse. But as she was about to turn away, Cat Valentine was hurrying towards her with André Harris, and Robbie Shapiro trailing behind. "Hey! Why don't you jerks leave her alone!?" Cat's voice, usually sweet and airy, was laced with an edge that caught the boys off guard.
André stepped in, his posture protective as he placed a hand on Jade's shoulder. "Y'all better watch yourselves. Pickin' on someone just 'cause you don't have anything better to do? What the hell is wrong with you?"
Robbie, standing a bit behind Cat and André, tried to look menacing, though his slight frame and awkward demeanor made it difficult. "Yeah, just get lost!" he added, his voice wavering just a bit.
One of the boys stepped right up to André's face, "Oh yeah? What are you gonna do about it, homeboy?"
André stands his ground, looking back in his eyes before someone from the group pulls the other one back. "Let them go, it ain't worth it." they said.
"You guys are lucky you're friends those Vega bitches, and that asshole Ryder." the boy said backing down before disappearing in the halls.
"Are you okay?" Cat's voice, now sweet in contrast to its earlier edge.
Jade managed a small, tight smile. "Yeah, I'm fine. Thank you." she said, her voice a little too even. "Nothing I'm not used to."
"Just ignore them, they suck." André added.
Robbie nodded, adjusting his glasses nervously. "Yeah, we got your back. Screw those idiots. They're just jealous because you're cooler than they'll ever be."
Jade couldn't help but chuckle and feel a warmth spread through her chest at their words. Robbie wasn't exactly the poster boy for 'cool,' but his heart was in the right place.
"Thanks, guys." she said, her smile a little more genuine this time. "Really, I'm okay. It's just—high school, you know?"
"Yeah, but high school's almost over." André said with a grin, trying to lighten the mood. "Graduation's just around the corner. We're almost free."
"Right?" Cat chimed in, her voice full of excitement. "And then we're off to do whatever we want! The world is our oyster!"
"Or our nightmare." Rex muttered to his gloom.
Jade chuckled lightly, the sound almost foreign to her. "I can't wait to get out of here." she said, though there was a hint of sadness in her voice.
"I've got a few gigs lined up after graduation." André said, his voice brimming with excitement. "Nothing major, but it's a start. I'm thinking of moving to New York to really kickstart my music career."
"That's awesome." Jade said, smiling. "New York's gonna love you."
Cat clapped her hands together, "I'm staying in here for now, I've got an audition for this new show in a few weeks. I hope I get it, but if not, I'll just keep trying."
"You'll get it." Jade said with more conviction than she felt. "You're too good not to."
Robbie adjusted the strap of his backpack, his mind elsewhere. "I'm thinking about going to film school. I want to direct my movies someday. Maybe horror flicks, something like 'Halloween' or 'I Know What You Did Last Summer'."
Jade's interest was piqued, "Horror, huh? Didn't think you had it in you, Robbie."
Robbie grinned, finally breaking out of his sullen mood. "Oh, you'd be surprised. I've got a dark side too, you know."
"But before we graduate, remember the Senior Showcase." André smiled, looking around at the group. "I mean, it's our last big gig before we graduate. Gotta, make it count, right?"
Jade tilted her head back, gazing at the ceiling for a moment before answering. "I'm thinking of singing an original song. Something about pain and all, but with a lille hope or light in the end."
"Ooh, I love that idea, Jade!" Cat chimed in.
Jade smiled softly at Cat's enthusiasm. "Thanks, Cat."
André nodded thoughtfully. "I'm probably gonna do a medley of my original songs. Something that tells a story, you know? Start with something chill, then build up to something big and emotional."
Robbie cleared his throat, his voice hesitant. "I was thinking... maybe I could do a stand-up routine? But, like, mix it with some ventriloquism. Something funny, but with a message. Maybe about growing up, facing fears, that kind of thing."
Jade glanced over at Robbie, her expression still soft. "That sounds good, Robbie. Just... make sure you don't go too dark with the jokes like last time. We're supposed to be celebrating, not making everyone cry."
"Yeah, yeah, totally. I'll keep it light... and quiet. If Lola finds out I'm doing stand-up, she'll push me to do the darkest shit she can think of." Robbie said, adjusting his glasses again getting a chuckle from the group.
"Yeah, Lola's jokes make you feel bad for laughing at them." André said
Cat giggled, "We also have the ball coming up! Are you excited, Jade?"
Jade shrugged, trying to keep her tone nonchalant. "I don't know. Those aren't really my thing."
"Come on!" Cat protested. "It's gonna be fun!"
Jade's smile lingered as she leaned back on her elbows, looking up at the ceiling. "I don't really see the point in all that—fuss. Besides, even if I even go, I'd just be alone." But there was a hint of sadness in her eyes, a shadow that flickered just beneath the surface.
Cat, ever the optimist, countered, "You can't go alone, Jade! You're too pretty to go alone." she insisted, "Maybe someone'll ask you last minute."
"Doubt it." Jade chuckled with a small, wry grin. "Besides, who would wanna go out with me? Plus, I'm not really into—all that romantic stuff."
André chuckled, shaking his head. "How about I take you? I think it'll be fun."
"You know I'm gay right?" Jade laughed.
"So what?" André chuckled, "It's a friends date."
"I'll think about it." Jade chuckled. "What about you Robbie?"
Robbie, forced a smile, "I, uh, I was thinking about asking someone too." Robbie hesitated, his eyes flicking nervously to Cat, "Uh—well—there's this girl that I like—" his voice trembled slightly, and he glanced at Cat, quickly looking away when their eyes met.
Cat perked up, her face lighting up like a Christmas tree. "Ooh! Who is she? Do we know her?"
Robbie's face flushed crimson spreading across his cheeks. "Ye—Yeah, you all know her. I just—I don't know if she'd want to go out with me. I mean, she's—she's really special, she's pretty, and I'm just—me." Robbie is flustered, as Jade and André share a knowing look at each other and smile as Robbie tries to regain composure. "Yeah, but—she's—I mean, what if she doesn't feel the same way?" He stammered.
Cat tilted her head, her brows furrowed in confusion. "Why wouldn't she say yes? You're sweet, funny, and have a great singing voice too." Cat smiled brightly. "Whoever she is, I'm sure she'd be lucky to go with you."
Jade rolled her eyes, though there was no malice behind it. "Just ask her, Rob. Worst case, she says no, and you move on."
Robbie's heart pounded in his chest. The way Cat looked at him, so innocent and pure, "Thanks Cat." he managed to say, his voice barely above a whisper before he turned to Jade, "Thanks Jade."
Jade, shakes her head watching Robbie, "When is the Senior Ball anyway?"
"This Friday." Cat answered casually. "On the 6th..." there was a pause. "Oh... the 6th huh?" The air around them thickened, the laughter fading into an uncomfortable silence.
Jade's jaw tightened, and her smirk vanished, replaced by a distant look as she stared at the floor, the memories crashing into her like a tidal wave. "Mrs. V.—" she breathes softly. "I miss her," Jade admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "She was—she was like a mom to me too, you know? Mrs. V always had a way of making everyone feel welcome. Like we were all her kids."
Cat nodded, her usually bubbly demeanor tempered with uncharacteristic sadness, "She was the best. I remember how she'd always hug me so tight like she was trying to squeeze all the happiness in the world into me."
André nodded, his eyes distant. "Jade's right, she had a way of making everyone feel like we were part of her family."
Jade swallowed hard, the familiar knot of grief tightening in her chest. "She was the closest thing I had to a mom after mine—" Her voice trailed off, unable to finish the thought.
Robbie, uncharacteristically solemn, glanced over at Jade. "And Tori—Tori just... she's like not even herself since then."
Jade's heart twisted at the mention of Tori.
"It's not just Tori that changed." André added, trying to break the tension. "We all did. That messed everyone up. Hell, the whole city is completely changed after that. She's the first of all this Boogeyman shit."
"Tori..." Jade said, her voice tinged with bitterness and sorrow. "I mean, she was the one who found her mom—and I get it, losing your mother like that—it messes you up. But she just turned into someone I don't even recognize anymore. She became exactly just like those people she, Lola, and I used to hate back when we were in fourth grade."
André sighed, shaking his head. "I think she's just hurting, Jade. We all are." He shrugs.
"Hurt doesn't excuse becoming whatever the hell she's become." Jade snapped, her eyes narrowing. "She turned on me like I was nothing. And now she struts around like she owns the place; like she's better than everyone else. But I still—" Jade caught herself, biting down on the words that threatened to spill out. "I still miss her. I still love her..." her voice cracks, "I still hope my best friend is in there somewhere."
Cat placed a gentle hand on Jade's arm, her eyes soft. "I miss the old Tori too, Jade. We all do."
"Yeah—" Jade trailed off, her gaze drifting to the entrance of the school. Her chest tightened, a familiar ache settling in. She wipes her eyes as her vision starts to blur. "I miss that dork." Her voice cracking a little bit.
"Hey, maybe it's just a phase." Cat said.
Before Jade could respond, she caught sight of Tori walking into the halls "Oh, shit." Jade breathes out. Tori was walking with Ryder, Beck, and Lola. "I gotta go, see you guys around." She said, her boots echoing on the pavement as she made a beeline for the doors leading to the classrooms. She could feel her friends' eyes on her back as she trailed off.
Tori strutted down the hallway, her heels clicking sharply against the polished floor. Her expression was one of detached superiority, eyes cold and sharp, scanning the students who watched her every move with a mix of awe, jealousy, and lust.
As they walked down the hallway, the usual whispers and giggles surrounded them. Tori could feel the eyes on her, but she pretended not to notice. She had grown used to the lustful stares, the envious glares, and the mocking snickers.
"Oh great. The Ice Queen is here." A girl muttered under her breath, just loud enough for her friend to hear.
"You mean the slut?" her friend answers.
"Got that right. Bitch just acts like that just cause guys are desperate to get in her panties." the first girl scoffed, her eyes narrowing at Tori's back. "Like she didn't fuck almost the whole drama club earlier this year. Fucking whore."
A group of guys leaned against the lockers, their eyes following Tori as she passed by. One of them, a tall jock with a cocky grin, nudged his group, "Tori fucking Vega." He said.
"I heard you barely lasted five minutes with her last spring break." One of them laughed at him.
"Hey! I was barely fucking conscious. You know the Vegas' parties are always a highlight. And besides, her mouth is like magic."
"I wouldn't mind five minutes with her myself." Another one of them followed. "I mean look at them legs and those damn cheekbones. UGH!"
Tori heard every word, but she didn't flinch. She'd been called worse by better people, and none of it mattered as long as she had Ryder by her side. He squeezed her shoulder, sensing her tension, and she leaned into him slightly, offering a rare, soft smile in return.
As they reached Cat, André, and Robbie by the lockers, "Hey, you guys!" Tori called out as they approached.
"Kept you guys waiting, huh?" Lola smirked.
André grinned, "Look who's here, the queen herself!" he teased, opening his arms for a hug.
Tori laughed and stepped into the hug. "You know it, Dré. Gotta keep my throne warm until graduation."
"You're right on time, we were just talking about talking about the ball."
"Can you believe we're almost done?" Cat chirped, her wide, eyes sparkling. "Senior Ball is this Friday! I'm so excited I could just—"
"Explode?" Robbie cut in with a teasing grin, "Just make sure you don't. I wouldn't want to miss out on seeing you in that dress you've been talking about all month."
Cat giggled, playfully swatting Robbie's arm. "Oh, stop it, Robbie. I'm just so happy! We're all going to look amazing, and it's going to be the best night ever!"
"Damn right it is." André agreed, nodding enthusiastically. He slung an arm around Beck and Ryder's shoulders. "We've earned it, y'know? After everything we've been through, we deserve one night where we can just have fun and forget about all the drama."
Beck's lips curve up as he glances over at Lola, whose dark stare falters his smile, "So, uh... Lola, you got your dress picked out yet, Lo?" he asked.
Lola shrugged, "Yeah, but I'm keeping it a secret. Gotta leave, a little mystery, right?" her tone, was casual but laced with coldness that everyone could feel. "What about you Beck? Did you get a tux? Who's your date?"
"Okay. You two, that's enough." Ryder chimed in, " Getting back to the topic... Tori's probably got something outrageous planned." Ryder chimed in, he wrapped an arm around Tori's waist, pulling her closer. "But knowing her, she'll outshine everyone at the ball."
Tori rolled her eyes, though her expression softened at Ryder's words. "I don't know about that." she said with a light laugh. "I might just go for something simple. Keep everyone guessing."
Lola snorted, crossing her arms. "Simple, huh? Right. You? Simple? When are you ever simple, Ria?" Lola chuckle.
Tori shot her sister a look, sticking her tongue out. "You're one to talk."
As they chatted, the bell rang, signaling the start of the first period. Students began to scatter, heading to their respective classes.
"Alright, gang, time to split up." André announced, slinging his backpack over one shoulder. "But we'll catch up at Sikowitz before lunch, yeah?"
"You know it." Tori said, flashing a grin at him.
The group started to disperse, each heading to their classes, but not before Lola caught Tori's arm, pulling her aside for a moment. "Ria—" she said quietly, "You good? You seem a little... on edge."
Tori's eyes softened as she looked at her sister, a brief flicker of vulnerability crossing her face. "I'm fine, Lo. Just... you know, thinking about Mom. Her anniversary is during the ball."
Lola's expression shifted to one of understanding, and she squeezed Tori's arm gently. "I know. We'll get through it together, okay? Just like we always do."
Tori nodded, giving her sister a small, grateful smile before pulling her into a hug, "Thank you, Lo. I don't know what I'd do without you."
"Don't get too sappy, sis." With that, the two parted ways, heading to their first-period classes.
Yeah, Tori's a real bitch at this point of the story, and I am totally reworking Cat to be less stupid like in the later seasons. Season 1 Cat had a bit of an attitude, and while being ditsy without being a totally insufferable.