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| [Introduction]
This is a campfire about 6 teens experiences through a public highschool. They each have a specific problem that they secretly (or publicly) deal with. Everyone should interact in some way, and eventually find out about eachothers problems. I only have 4 rules. 1)You have 1 week, and 1 week only, to make your addition before your turn is skipped. Once roughly half of your time is up, I will send you a notice telling you when your entry must be done by. 2)Romance is allowed, but nothing too graphic. 3)Fill out the bio below along with your first addition. Name/Nickname: Gender: Age/Birthday: Grade: Personality: Appearance: Family: Likes: Dislikes: Talents: Problem: History: And 4) HAVE FUN!! 
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| Name/Nickname: Caitlin Bennington Gender: Female Age/Birthday: 15/August 18th Grade: 10 Personality: Smart and friendly, quiet and reserved. Caitlin smiles at everyone and always seems happy, though she doesn't actually have any friends. Appearance: Caitlin is 5'8", tall yet petite and thin, the perfect figure of a ballet dancer. She has long, slightly wavy, black hair past her chest, and fragile features. She has large, bright blue eyes framed with long dark eyelashes, and soft, full lips and a pretty smile accented by two small dimples. She's graceful and elegant, everything about her is beautiful. Family: Dawna(43)-Caitlin's mom, constantly pushing her to be her best as a ballet dancer. Dave(45)-Divorced Dawna when Caitlin was at a young age and hardly visits or talks to her. Likes: Dancing when she's not being pressured, music, reading, and having someone to talk to. Dislikes: Her mom, her dad, dancing when she's being pressured, and prying adults. Talents: Dancing, singing, and math. Problem: cutting History: Dawna put Cailtin into ballet as soon as she was old enough to walk, so for as long as Caitlin can remember, her life has revolved around ballet. She's never had any close friends, though she's always gotten along well with the kids at school. Caitlin hardly remembers her dad. |
| Name/Nickname: Amy Tollan Gender: Female Age/Birthday: 15 Grade: 10 Personality: Amy is a typical nice girl. She doesn't really rely on her own thoughts. Amy has a lot of book smarts, but not a lot of street smarts. Like a ditz with good grades. She is extremely trusting, too trusting for her own good. She is energetic and sociable. Like a cheerleader only without the cheerleading since all of her cheerleading friends are in varsity which is only for seniors and juniors. Appearance: Amy is tall, blonde, and beautiful. She has big, blue eye and a charming smile that can make heads turns and boys melt. She wears clothes like the older girls, low cut and shows off her nice figure. Family: Amy is the oldest of her family. She has a twelve year old brother and a one year old sister. Her parents work together as they run a large enterprise. So one is always off on business. Sometimes both of them. So her 21 year old cousin, Leslie, is living with them while she goes to college and keeps an eye on all of them. Likes: Attention, boys, more mature people, hanging out with friends, and the occasional partying, all things girly, her dog Sparky. Dislikes: Being alone, most of the time her brother, her parents always being gone one way or the other, things that don't go her way Talents: She is smart and can get through any class Problem: She is pregnant. History: Amy has always tried to live the ideal life. She parties with people older than her and has always aced her classes. She hangs out with seniors and freshman in college. Her friends have had a history of using her for her money and brains. She has a boyfriend who is about to turn 18 and they have been serious ever since the summer, though most of it was for sex. |
| Caitlin lost her balance and stumbled, falling with a thump to the hard dance floor. The music for her routine continued on, and her mother stormed up from the seats. "You're hopeless! What is wrong with you, you stupid girl? Can't you get anything right?" Dawna grabbed Caitlin by the arm and yanked her to her feet with enough force to dislocate Caitlin's shoulder. Caitlin bowed her head. "I'm sorry Mom, it won't happen again." "You're damn right it won't, I'm paying a fine coach to teach you how to be a proper dancer so you can make something of your life, start your future..." Oh god, here came the future speech again. Caitlin felt herself losing it. Soon she would have to grab her bag and search for a place to be alone... Caroline, Caitlin's coach, glided over from her spot by the tape player to where Caitlin and her mom were standing. "Non, non, non, madam, there is no problem. The child is allowed to make mistakes, it is how she does learn, yes? A new routine is calling for more mistakes to be made, with much practice Caitlin will fly!" Caroline said, her voice heavy with her French accent. Dawna pulled herself up to her full 5 feet and 11 inches, and glared down at the petite Caroline, before she deflated, realising that she couldn't afford to lose such an expert coach. That was a close one. Caitlin felt the need to cut slowly fade away as she took deep breaths to calm herself and her mother stormed back to the seats. |
| Amy sat alone in her room doing her homework when a ding from her computer in the corner of her room went off. Her heart leaped and her head jerked up instantly. Robert was online! She jumped into her computer chair and swivled it toward the screen. She pulled out the keyboard and turned off the sound to the speakers. She grinned as she typed. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Sweety916: Hey baby. I had fun on our date last night :* Highoffoflife: Me too. You were great. Sweety916: Robbie, I meant the actual dating part, Silly. Though that was good too. Listen, I've g2g finish my homework and knowing you, you probably have to too. You're just getting sidetracked talking to me. Highoffoflife: Well I can't focus when I have the oppurtunity to talk to you, Beautiful. Have fun doing Calculus or whatever other impossible classes you're in. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Amy grinned looking at the screen. He called her beautiful. That was really sweet of him, she thought to herself. Amy felt a new feeling inside of her. One based on spontaneous excitement that she often felt inside whenever the older boy was around her. She bit her lip and considered if she should do what she had in mind. "Ah, why the hell not?" she said and then typed down the words she was feeling. "I love you," she said out loud as she was typing them and then hit the enter key. She giggled with excitement and curious of her boyfriend's response. They were having sex, why couldn't they say 'I love you'? There was no response from Robert for a while. Amy sighed and realized maybe she had overstepped her boundaries as a girlfriend. She bit her nail and suddenly regretting her actions. Through the headphones was the computer sound of Robert's screenname being logged off. Amy pouted and her regret worsened. She had overstepped her boundaries, at least according to Robert. He never said 'I love you' to her before. Maybe it was just a little bit too soon. Still the fact that Robert hadn't even told her it was too soon hurt her feelings. Her stomach swirled with nausea. Was she love sick? Amy pulled her chair back and leaned over the trash can. Amy pulled back her hair and threw up before she could even realize what her body was doing. No, apparently she was just sick. |
| Name/Nickname: Janet Carter/Ghost Gender: Female Age/Birthday: 15/Febuary 29 Grade:11 Personality: Quiet and reserved in the halls. Keeps to herself, but isn't afraid to speak her mind about everything but herself, though no one listens. Easily dissappears into a crowd since she feels that no one sees her anyway, and in a way she likes it like that. though her friends are few and far between. Exceptionally smart, she pushes herself in all her classes, having all Honors and AP classes. Even with skipping grades in elemetary school, she feels dumb and inadiquate because High school isn't going by fast enough for her. Appearance: With black hair and violet eyes, Janet has a striking appearance that could make her the most popular girl in school with the right attitude and clothing. As it stands, she tends to have a somber theme to her wardrobe; black, blue, purple and white. She tends to wear rather unassuming clothes or blouses that wouldn't look out of place in the rennassaince fair, or victorian era. She's always covered from neck to ankle, in mostly form fitting clothes that totally accents her growing curves while hiding her skin at the same time. "Ghost or Gothic" type appearacnce though she doesn't wear black makeup. On the contrary, she wears regular covergirl with baked apple red lipstick and berry gloss, knowing how to not only bring out the color in her face without looking like she has a pound of make-up on, but also to cover the black eyes and other bruises she has from time to time. Family: mother, Sophia(35): absolute perfectionist and homemaker with her own buisness that she runs from home so that she can take care and devote time to her children. She thinks anything less than perfect is unholy, her religion being that of being as perfect as one can be. father, Harold (35): Thinks that Sophia is the apple of his eye as the two have the same views on the world about everyting including the raising of their children. Buisness man himself, he sees children need strong upbringings with firm hands and strict controls. He feels that the way children are and act are a direct reflection of the parents- in a sence, bad children means bad parents and very poor parenting. Gloria(7): Janet's little sister, much like her the way she was at that age, Gloria is in fourth grade to the delights of the parents, though Gloria's only friend is her older sister. She often goes to the highschool to wait for her sister to get out so that they can go to the library together. Likes: Gloria, books, art, history, playing the rock music on the violin, being away from home Dislikes:Parents, home in general, having to play anything her parents tell her is 'proper music', gum. Talents: Music, art, science, academics in general. Problem: Very abusive parents. History: A virtual prodigy, Janet pushes herself to be perfect in everything, fearing failure and the beatings that it brings her. Playing four instruments and having several peices of art work in her father's galleries does nothing to make her parents show affection towards her, just about her. Finds solace in playing the violin as she finds most of her emotion can be found in the strings. Will often carry the case around with her to play after school before she and her sister head to the library. "Hi Gracie," Janet said, placing her bag down on the steps that led into the school. "Hola, Janet," Grace replied. Then contiuing on in Spanish, she added, "Will you play before we go?" Janet nodded, kneeling down to take out her violin and tuned it a but before leaning on the railing. "Since today we speak Spanish, I will play a tune from Spain little sister," Janet replied also in Spanish. She brought the violin to her cheek and drew out the first somber note. Finding the strings pliable, she warmed the instrument with a few more notes before going into a melody for her little sister. The ruffles on her shirt cuffs and collar his the bruises on her wrists and around her neck, and even with the stiffness and the soreness she felt in the fresh ones on her back, she played well enough to be called excellent. She missed a few notes, but kept going, this the only time that she could allow such mistakes to go unnoticed, as her sister was her only audience, being the last one to leave the school for the day. Grace sat watching her big sister, her own instrument in it's case as she just started to become proficent with the viola. |
| Name/Nickname: Robert Lutz/ Robbie Gender:male Age/Birthday: 17/ August 30 Grade: first year in local Jr. College Personality: Robert is the typical partier. He likes his woman young and ins't afraid to experiment. He is a sweet talked and can use that talent (or curse) to get himself out of trouble. He does have a strong work sense though. If something could be done now then do it and get it over with. Appearance: Robert is the typical blonde hair blue eyed beauty. He is aware of this and works out at the gym three times a week before classes to keep his body and health in shape. His muscels are toned but not in a grotesque way. He has his right ear peirced and a small dragon tattoo on his upper left arm. Family:Marie(42)- mother, Marie is a hard working woman. She works two jobs to support her son. Likes: young woman, painting, reading, partying, working at his job at Barnes and Nobels Dislikes: parents, romance, cats, Talents: painting, sweet talking ladies into bed Problem: got his girlfriend Amy Tollan pregnet History: Robert met Amy one day at a party his friend Josh was throwing. They had met and talked. They had not even gone out on one date before he had sex with Amy. Robert knew that Amy was different but he didn't know how she was different though. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Robert looked at the screen. Sweety916: I love you How could she love me, Robert thought. He had tried to make it so that she wouldn't fall in love with him. Robert ran his hands through his blond hair frustrated. He didn't want to brake up with Amy but he knew that something had to be done before the LOVE part of the relationship went any farther. "I Should respond." Robert said to himself out loud. But before he could register what he was doing he had already signed off. Robert decided to get his homework done before he had to go into work. As he was in the middle of his pyshcology homework his cell rang. "Hello?" Robert said. "Hey man grab Amy and come on over. It's a party!" He could hear the music in the background behind Josh. "Sorry man I got work. Duty calls. If the party is still rolling I'll show up after work." He could hear the disappointment in Josh's voice. But Robert had to work and keeping busy would get his mind off of the "L" word. "Look I got to go buddy. Call me at eleven and tell me if the party is still hopping." Robert waited for Josh to answear. "Sure buddy. I just hope I remeber to call you. I'm am out of here!" Josh yelled in a very pour Genie impression from Alldin. Robert hung up the phone and closed his text book. He had to get Amy out of his mind and a night of work and parting was just the cure he needed. |
| Caitlin walked up the school steps with just enough time to get to her locker and her first class, after having her morning ballet class. She had done well enough not to have her mother scream at her, and she had actually slightly enjoyed the class too. As Caitlin walked through the halls she made it a point to smile and greet at least three people. "Hi Sylvia." Caitlin smiled to a girl in her Science class. "Hey Caitlin, how's it goin?" Sylvia returned. "Hi Amy." Caitlin smiled to a girl in her English class, who smiled back and kept going. "Hey Carter." Caitlin smiled to a guy in her math class, who was walking by with his friend. He didn't reply, and as he walked by, Caitlin distincly heard his conversation with his friend. "Know how she always manages straight A's?" Carter asked his friend. "Because she's smart?" his friend said. "No, I know for a fact that she fucks the principal." Caitlin's eyes widened and she faught the impulse to turn around and say something. She was almost at her locker now. Don't think about it, just don't think about it, you'll make it, you're almost there... But the feeling was getting too strong for Caitlin. Her breathing was coming in quick, short gasps, and right in front of her locker she made a quick turn to her left and rushed to the bathroom, her bag securly on her shoulder. Once in the empty bathroom, Caitlin locked herself in a stall, reached into her bag, and pulled out her little pair of scissors. They were scissors she had stolen from her mom's sewing kit that she used to make and repair Caitlin's outfits. When she discovered cutting two years ago, they had become her only friend. Cailtin carefully unfolded the little peice of material they were wrapped in, and then carefully pulled up her sleeve, exposing her arm covered in white and red scars. As Caitlin brought the blade of the scissor to a clear space on her arm, and dragged it down and across her skin, her breathing slowly returned to normal and her silent tears stopped falling. When she was done, she carefully wiped the blood of the blade and dabbed at the small amount of blood on her arm. Then, making sure that it wasn't bleeding anymore, she placed her scissors back in her bag, pulled down her sleeve, and gathered herself together before going to class, knowing that she was late. |
| "No, I know for a fact that she fucks the principal." Amy had heard the comment made by Carter and froze by her locker. It hurt her. Was she a slut? No, she'd lost her virginity to Robert. Amy hadn't heard any names. Maybe it was directed to someone else. She was only sleeping with one guy and it definitely wasn't the principal. She took out her trigonometry book and slammed her locker out of anger. The moment she turned around someone's lips connected with hers and pressed her body against the locker. She opened her eyes and was relieved to see it was Robert. Then she felt silly. Who else could it have been? Amy was angry and didn't feel like kissing. She tried to push away, but Robert had a firm grip on her. Slut. The word echoed in her mind and she somehow found away to tear away from him. Amy didn't want to talk to him. She didn't want him to look at her after she told him she loved him. Robert tried to look at her in the eyes, but she kept looking away. "Ames, are you okay?" he asked. Amy finally found the strength to look at him. No! She wasn't okay! Why hadn't he responded to her after she talked to him yesterday. She let him into her heart and Robert left her feeling like an idiot. "I'm just a little upset," Amy said censoring her true feelings. Robert gulped feeling guilty. "Are you sure? Why are you crying?" he said. "I'm crying?" she said. Suddenly the wetness of her tears on her skin became exihistant. Amy wiped them away quickly on the sleeves of her jacket. She looked into his eyes and could sense the awkwardness between them. She could tell Robert thought this was about what she said to him. Not wanting to hear it she turned thoughts on his mind to something else. "I just heard a few kids say something that was hurtful, but I don't know if they were talking about me so I don't care." Obviously she did, otherwise she wouldn't be crying. The bell rang and she smiled up at him. "Can you walk me to class?" "Sure." |
| If there wasn't one person in the vicinity of the hallway that didn't hear Carter's comment, Janet didn't know who. The jerk had said it loud enough for everyone to hear. She opened her locker setting her violin case down so that che could change her books. With her foot, she pushed the case out into the passageway where Carter tripped uncerimonusly over it. She gave a slight grin, and turned around, frowning deeply as she did so. "Watch where you're going!" Janet said, retriving her case to lean against the locker. "Watch where you place your junk, slut!" Carter said standing up. Seeing who it was, he grinned. "Oh, it's you, on second thought, no wonder I tripped. I didn't think that you were actually there, Ghost." His friend laughed. "Funny, I'm surprised that you could even see past that big nose of yours," she said turning back to her locker. "I do NOT have a big nose!" "Then big ears then," Janet said closing her locker and picking up her case. She looked at him. "It's either you sniff out garbage, or you hear things that aren't there," Janet said. Then, getting a wicked gleam in her eye, she glanced around to some of the others who were at their lockers. "Or is it that you like Girls, and I'm less of a 'ghost' than you are?" She strode off, leaving him wondering what her words meant. Ducking into the girl's bathroom, she went to the mirror to cheak her makeup. There was no way to get excused from gym class, and she always needed to make sure that the fresh bruise that she had on her cheek from being late last night was sufficiently covered. She brought out her bag, and cheaking to make sure no one was in the bathroom, washed off all of the make-up with cleaner that she carried before re-appiying foundation, cover up and lip stick. She heard a noise comming from one of the stalls and frowned. |
| Robert walked Amy to class. He thought that if he had surprised her at school then they could get back to the way they had been before yesterday. Yet, it didn't seem like they were going to go back to the way they were. Maybe all they did have between them was sex. Robert wasn't sure but that mad him feel like shit. The bright sun and sound of the cars driving down the streets as Robert walked out of the high school made his pounding head ache more. This was the mother of all hangovers, Robert told himself as he pulled out his sunglasses. Robert looked around and got in his car. He had promised Josh he would stop by and pick him up for class. Robert looked at the passing buildings and started to zone out. He thought of Amy and their instant message conversation they had had the day before. Why in the hell was he obsessesing over some lame ass conversation. All he needed was Amy in bed and all their troubles would just melt away. He didn't plan on loving any girl till he was over forty, and till then it was school, work and party. Robert decided to call Amy later and see if she wanted to go to a party with him on friday night. They both knew the people and Josh had just gotten some Tequila from Mexico. After about nine or ten shots of tequila Robert would be on the best ride of his life after he threw in some weed. Robert pulled up to Josh's house and honked the horn twice. Josh came out flipping the bird to Robert. "Dude not so f-ing loud." Josh said. He held his head in his hands the whole way to school "So are we going to have a party tonight?" Robert asked. Josh looked at him like he was from Mars. "Duh, come on man how long have you known me NOT to have a party at the end of a stressful day of class." "Okay I'll come arounf eleven again. I have work but I think I'll see if Amy wants to come tonight." Robert looked ahead at the road. "How is things going with Amy?" Josh asked. Robert shook his head. "She told me she loves me." Josh let out a screech and started in a laughing riot. "She said the 'L' word to you? Man dump her fast. Unless, you known, she is good in the sack." Josh lifted and dropped his eyes brows trying to look cool. "She's great, I'm just not to hot about the love part." Robert saw the college come into veiw. "Man I just say dump her." "Maybe your right." Robert pulled into a spot in the parking lot and got out of the car ready for a day of class and worring about his future. |
| Name/Nickname:Matt Raxter/Goat Gender:male Age/Birthday: 17/July 2 Grade:11 Personality:Tries to make everyone and anyone laugh. Very easygoing, will help anyone whos in trouble, but dont piss him off. Very Mature and if no one is around very serious. Appearance:He has curly, nevercombed hair, Big brown eyes, with i scar across his left eye. He has a very deep voice for his age, somewhere around a bass, making the backstreet boys sound as high pitched as elmo.he's around six foot kinda big not muscular just big, around 260 pounds but only looks around 200, meaing there are hidin weight that only can be muscle. Family: Sister Katelyn. His mom Donna works at the school as a teachers aid, and his dad Darrell os always away working at some computer company. Likes: band(saxphone), writing, drawing, making people laugh. Dislikes: Church,God,anyone who tries to force church onto him, and last but not least stupid people. Guys who try to take advantege of girls. Cheerleaders! Talents: singer, saxophone, great bullshitter, using a 12 pound sledge hammer like it wieghed a single pound. Total nerd. Able to headbutt and often enough break everything but his head, hence the nickname Goat. Problem: Once killed a man with his sledge, for trying to rape his 16 year old sister. Is very paraniod that he will eventually get caught. so he moves at least once a year. History: other then killing a man just like everyone else. Matt parked his car in the side parking lot, his old 2000 dollar dolorian had to be parked with nothing next to it so the doors could go up. He stood out of the car and motioned his sister to do the same. Katelyn, being only a sophmore, seemed tremdusly nervus as she got out and stood in front of Matt, she barly went up to his shoulders so he could still; see their new school just fine. He grabbed her by the shoulders and turned her around. "If any guy even looks at you wrong, let me know, and he would be able to look at anything after im done with em." he said letting his anger show only a little. kate slumped into his big hands, but slowly nodded. "Sorry, i didnt mean to do that." he said releasing her shoulders, as much as Kate loved her brother and trusted him more then anyone else, she was afraid of him, but only a little, "Alright, lets get this over with." They walked into the office that was clearly marked, Matt noticed two guys get out of a car nearby and he glared as one of them pointed towards Kate, he would remember those faces. “May I help you?” the lady behind the counter asked looking trough her square glasses. “Sure can dear, we’re your new recruits.” he said standing at attention in front of the counter. The lady chuckeled and asked for their names, which he gave, and they both receaved their schudules. “Remember what i said,” Matt said to his sister as she had to go a different direction. She nodded and walked down the hall looking at the numbers on the doors. After what Matt did, in front of Kate i might add, she hasnt talked to anyone, even him. “Alright off to see the wizard.” he said looking at the numbers himself to find the class that he was saposed to be in half an hour ago. After finding his class three hallways away from the main lobby he stared at the door for a second. AP English. “Oh goody, i bet a nickle it will be some brit teaching the class to.” He said to no one, and walked inside. “Who are you?” the teacher said at the loud interuption. “Im your new meat for the grinder deal, serlion Matt Raxter.” Matt said, trying for a laugh and got it from most of the students, ecept for a girl in what looked like something that Leonardo De Vinchi would love, she only looked nervus. Grabbing the handle of a violen cass at her feet. “Well Mr. Jokester you can sit in that last chair.” the teacher said pointing to literally the last seat in the room right behind the violen girl. “No problem, oh and dear, would you like me meduim, or rare?” Matt said raising one eyebrow, as this time even the teacher chucled a little bit. “Just sit down before i do cook ya” she said shaking her head, “alright now that everyones here, we can get back to work.” Matt stood over his chair for a second then removed the tack that was stratigly placed there, and tossed it to the floor. his eyebrows went half way down his nose in fury, he looked around the room, staring for any sign of who would put a tack on his chair but found nothing. “Is there a problem back there, Mr.Raxter was it?” The teacher said after a second of him standing there. “No, just trying to get all the TACKS from my seat.” he said a little to loud through clenched teeth, making everyone turn around and stare at him. A pair of girls giggled in the corner against the wall, After he sat and everyone turned back to the lesson he picked back up the tack and darted it a couple of inches from one of the girls heads and then he finally calmed down enough to listen. “Good shot, the tack i mean,” the violen girl leaning back slightly. “thanks, sadly i missed on purpose.” Matt said bowing his head. “i could tell.” she said turning back around. |
| Caitlin was dozing in class. She wasn't taking in a word the teacher was saying. Instead, she was thinking about in the bathroom that morning. It had been a close call, finding that girl standing at the sinks when she had let herself out of the stall. Caitlin thought the girls name was Janet or something. She often heard people calling her Ghost. Was it just in Caitlin's mind, or had she seen the shadow of hidden bruises on Janet's face and neck? Caitlin did doubt her own sanity. She knew there was something wrong with her. Maybe a high possibility she was crazy. Was she starting to imagine things now? Was she making images in her mind that other people had problems too? Or had she really seen bruises? It was hard to tell, if they were there, they were covered under layers of makeup. Or maybe they WERE makeup. Caitlin shook her head and sat up straight, hearing the teacher call her name. "Caitlin? Could you tell me the answer?" Caitlin's English teacher was looking at her with a concerned look. Her English teacher was young, maybe in her mid or late 20's. She was nice, and Caitlin's favorite teacher. But sometimes she was a little too nice. Caitlin needed to be yelled at sometimes. What was it about her that made everyone so nice? Well, that wasn't true. Carter hadn't been nice that morning. And her mother wasn't nice. And obviously there was something about her her father hadn't liked, either. "Caitlin? Are you alright?" Ms. MacPhee asked when Caitlin didn't answer, but sat there staring at her. Caitlin blinked and cleared her mind. "Sorry? Oh, I'm fine. Um, the answer? 16 over C squared." Caitlin answered. Ms. MacPhee looked at Caitlin for a moment longer, a questioning look in her eyes. Caitlin started to wonder if she was wrong. But a moment later, the teacher smiled and turned back to the board. "That is correct." she said, writing the answer on the board and going on to explain something to the class and Caitlin sank back into her thoughts. After class, Caitlin was hurrying through the hallway to her next lesson. She was lost in her thoughts again when she slammed into someone and both her books, and the books of the other person, went flying. "Oh god, I'm so sorry! I wasn't paying attention, I-" Caitlin started, running around to pick up the books. "Hey, don't worry about it. It was my fault too." Caitlin looked up to see who it was as she handed their books back to them. It was Robert, she knew his name because he was one of the popular guys. He was going out with Amy, who Caitlin knew from a couple of her classes. "You cut yourself?" Robert asked, and Caitlin's breath caught in her throat. How could he possibly know? Robert took his books from Caitlin and pointed at a dark red spot on her sleeve. "What happened?" Caitlin quickly brought her arm back and hid it against her side, realising that Robert didn't know at all. "Just a scratch, I'm so clumsy sometimes." she smiled at Robert. "Anyway, sorry again." Caitlin walked quickly away from Robert. Two close calls in one morning? She was really getting careless. |
| Amy looked at Robert and laughed. He smiled at her. "Ookay.." Robert said making Amy giggle. he wrapped an arm around her and she felt in his body that something was wrong. She slipped out of his arms and parted him with a kiss. "Where are you going?" Robert asked pulling her towards him again. She grinned and bit her bottom lip seductively. "Well if you must know, I have to go to the bathroom," she said. "You know, powder my nose?" His eyes locked into hers. "You went like three times since last period," he said. She pulled out of his arms a little more urgently. It was urgent. "I know, but I have to pee. Now if you'll excuse me, I'll be right back," she said. Amy walked into the bathroom and came out of the stall wondering. Amy was well prepared for her mensturation cycle to arrive. It was already three weeks late. Amy bit her lip and wondered if there was something wrong. She noticed Caitlin at the sink with her sleeves rolled up. Amy ran beside her and turned on the water faucet with a friendly smile to Caitlin. "Hi Caitlin," she said in a bright cheery voice that even made her own stomach churn. Caitlin was frantically pulling down her sleeve. "Hey Amy," Caitlin said cursing herself for almost letting someone catch her for examining her scars. Amy started to wash her hands and Caitlin started to leave. "Wait!" Amy nearly yelled. Cailin stopped by the door. "I think something's wrong with my...you know, little visits from Aunt Flo. Has this ever happened to you before?" Caitlin cocked an eyebrow at the strange question. Amy blushed embarassed. "You know what? Forget it. I'm sorry. I guess I'm just a little over concerned." "That's okay," Caitlin said turning around. "See ya." Amy started to dry her hands and thought. This was something that she should discuss with an older female figure. Mother was still in England with Father on a business deal. Leslie didn't have class today. She would simply talk to her later about this. |
| Janet grabbed her books that she would need for homework and stuffed them into her bag. The school had a half-day that friday-teacher confrence or something, so she suddenly found herself with spare time before music lessons that afternoon. She went down the steps to see Gloria just running up the steps from crossing the street with her viola case just behind her. "You get a half day too, huh," Janet said with the hint of a smile. Gloria nodded with a grin and the two stopped at the bottom of the stairs, a sea of kids flowing around them as they left the grounds. "Play something happy?" Gloria asked. Janet smiled, and set down her violin case, opening it to take out her prized instrument. She cheaked her case for an extra string, and satified, she warmed up the indtrument with a song in mind. Once warmed, Janet went into playing songs from Metallica, starting with Unforgiven and 'Black'. Gloria, brightening, brought out her viola and once she found the cord, joined in with her sister in playing rock on their instruments. A small crowd formed around them, kids with nothing to do but hang out a few minutes before going home. Janet looked up to see the girl she saw in the bathroom yesterday. What was her name? Cailin, she thought. She looked at her as she watched the two girls play. Well, she supposed that she should try to make a friend. At the end of the song, she looked down to Gloria for a moment before going over to Cailin. "Hi," Janet said once she was face to face with the girl. "Um...I'm Janet. This is my sister Gloria," she said waving back to her little sister as she put away her viola. "Um, this probably sounds crazy, and you can say no if you want," Janet said as the crowd disperced, "But well, I was wondering if we could hang out sometime? Like at the library or something." |
| God did Amy have to pee. This made the fourth time today. But that was the least of Robert's worries. He had a feeeling that Amy knew something was wrong in their relationship. Or maybe he was just over paranoid. He and Amy had plans for the night. A rave downtown was being held by one of his friends so he could get them in for free. Amy had already told her mother that she was spending the nights at a friends and technically she was. Robert just happened to be that friend. Robert watched as Amy ran back to the car, fresh powder on her noce. She looked worried, he thought to himself but pain no heed to it. "Hey baby, what wrong?" Robert asked as Amy got back in the car. "Nothing. I think we should go to lunch first before we go back to your place." Amy made her voice sound sexy just the way Robert liked it. It made him feel in control. "Sure where do you want to go?" Robert started the car and pulled out of the drive way. "I feel like McDonalds." Robert looked at Amy surprised. Normally all she ate around him was health food, and when ever he tried to push real food on her she would tell him she wished to live over the age of sixty. "Okay? Amy is something wrong?" Amy tried to play dumb with Robert. "No, no eveything is fine," she said, "everything is fine." Robert looked at his girlfriend. "Baby you don't look to good. Maybe we should skip the rave tonight." God why did he just say that, Robert said as he instatly regretted making the suggestion. "No I want to go to the rave. I bought the cutest outfit. It's a slinky silver halter top with a jean skirt so small it's illegal." Robert tried, for a second, not to think of the outfit, but he failed. After all what was a guy to do, stop thinking at all? "Wohoo, baby we are going to have fun tonight!" Robert yelled as he revved the engine and drove down the street. |
| Matt waited outside the main gate for Katelyn, when she finally came they silently made their way to the car, he stopped and turned when he heard someone playing near the the other side of the parking lot. He followed the sound until he could see the violen girl playing with what looked like a younder sister, he lead Katelyn until he was in the back of the small crowd that gathered around the players, which were very good. Matt crossed his arms across his chest and sighed remembering his own days were he would randomly play around the school, his Bari Saxophone glittering in the son. he stood and listened with a nervus Katelyn at his elbo. when the crowd started to thin he fled back to his car which was now of course surrounded by two cars, he ushered his sister into the half opened door, and she released the parking break. Matt then grabbed hold of the back bumper and slowly pulled the car out from its parking place with KAtelyn inside making sure it backed up strait. ONce inside and on the road their moods relaxed. "So how was your first day?" Matt asked adjusting his rear view mirror," anyone give you any trouble?" Katelyn shook her head and patted her stomach, her silent request for food. "That sounds like a good idea, what are you in the mood for?" Matt asked almost mechanicly, his attempt at her to talk, which usally failed, which as always she simply shrugged and stred out the windshield. "Well lets see, our apartment wont be ready fo at least a day or so, so i feel like Mexican." Matt said glancing at his sister that put her finger in her mouth and made a gagging sound, "alright, how 'bout Italian?" Katelyn opened her mouth about to say somthing but he just nodded her head and let out a yawn. |
| Name/Nickname: Natasha Clairise Nieto (Shadow) Gender: Female Age/Birthday: 17/ February 10th Grade: 11th Personality: very quiet and secretive she keeps to her self. But if you get a little alcohol in her she knows how to have a good time. She has stories you wouldn’t believe. She's a bit of a Klepto she sees something out in the open next thing she knows its in her hands and she's off with it. She's not very trusting but when you earn her trust you have a friend for life who will do anything for you. She can talk her way into anyone's heart and out of any situation. She is extremely flexible physically and emotionally. She wants to find someone she can trust and be honest with but is sure there is no such person out there Appearance: Long straight black hair that hangs to mid back, Stone Grey eyes that seem allmost a piercing silver , she has a sharp thin face and a thin yet extraordinarily curvy figure. She has very pale white skin that is soft to the touch She wears little to no make up but her face seems to have a natural glow to it. She typicaly wears a black leather tailored coat and a colorfull top that shows off her figure and tight pants and boots Family: Her Father Nicoli Nieto and her Mother Stephanie Nieto are still together she is an only child who had a great relationship with her father until recently. Likes: Vodka on ice and dancing. Music of all kinds and cats. Taking Risks , and Gambling Dislikes: people who are too trusting, ignorant people, Dogs Talents: Sleight of hand, smooth talker , keyboard, Dancing, Singing, Escape artist Problem: She was raped by a guy at the school that she now makes a point to avoid. |
| Caitlin was taken aback, and it took her a moment to answer. She just stood there staring at Janet before she blinked and responded. "Oh! Oh, god, I'm sorry, I, I have a really busy schedule, you know, with all my lessons and stuff. I would really like to, but, you know, I just don't really think I would have the time..." Caitlin said. She was sorry, and you could tell. She really wanted to hang out with Janet. She seemed like a nice girl, and Caitlin didn't have any friends. But she knew her schedule wouldn't allow her to have friends. They would just get in the way. "Oh, okay, well thats fine. See you later I guess." Janet said, and she and her sister had already started walking away when Caitlin called out to her. "Wait!" Caitlin said. Janet and her sister stopped and turned around. "I...my mom doesn't know its half-day today. We could hang out now, if you'd like?" Caitlin said. "Oh, well, me and my sister were going to have some music lessons this afternoon." Janet said. "I love music! You two are really great. I wouldn't mind listening." Caitlin didn't know why she was practically begging like this. She was probably making a fool of herself. Janet probably didn't want to hang out with her. She was probably thinking that it had been a mistake to ask her to hang out. But she liked the feeling of knowing someone wanted to hang out with her. Most people knew about her busy schedule so they didn't even bother asking her to do something. "Alright." Janet said, a slight smile on her face. Caitlin grinned and hurried towards Janet and her younger sister. |
| "Leslie," Amy said walking into her little sister's nursery. Her older cousin was inside putting her little sister, Rose to sleep. Her parents were away in England currently. They called every once in a while to say hello, but they were extremely busy. Leslie was her older cousin who watched Amy and her little brother Tory. Her cousin was much like an older sister and always had been. "Yeah?" Leslie said in a quiet voice. "Things have been...kind of weird lately. Womanwise, I mean. You know. That wonderful little cycle that comes around every once in a while," Amy said her cheeks flushing. Leslie turned off the light with the baby walkie talkie in hand. Their home was huge and in a descrete spot on top of the tallest hill in the area that over looked the city. Leslie wrapped an arm around her younger cousin and squeezed in a hug. "Amy, my young naive cousin. Go on I know what you're talking about." "Well it's been a while. Almost two months. Should I be concerned?" Leslie picked up her eyes. "You should be if you're still dating that prick," Leslie said. Amy looked at her cousin. "All these times you've been telling me you've been sleeping over at Jessica's I've noticed you've been acting...different. Have you been sleeping with Robert?" Amy was stupified. How could someone just come right out and say that? Yes, she was sleeping with him, but it was with good reason. Wasn't it? "What are you saying?" Amy said her voice shaking. "I'm stating the obvious, Amy. If you've been sleeping with Robert and all this is happening you could be..." Amy cut her off immediately. "I AM NOT!" she shouted stopping her cousins words. Leslie shook her head and groaned. "You need to get this checked out Amy," Leslie said. "Please. It's for your own good." Amy's cell phone interrupted their conversation. The ring tone was light and cheery cabana music while the mood was still dark and tense. "Hello?" Amy asked. "Hey babe. You feeling up for a party?" said Robert's voice. She glared at Leslie. "Yes, I'm feeling very up for a party." Leslie frowned and shook her head. After Amy was done on the cell phone she jogged up the stairs toward the bathroom. "I'm going out. I'll be home before midnight. If I can't make it home in time I'll call." |
| "So..do you know of any place to go?" Janet said as the tre made their way away from the school. Caitlin thought a moment and shook her head. "Sorry, I usually have a really busy schedule with all my lessons and all, so I don't really get out much," Caitlin said wishing she knew more. Janet just shrugged. "I know what you mean. Half-days that my parents don't know about are like ambrosia." Gloria giggled. "Really? Why?" Caitlin asked, thinking on what ambrosia was; something to do with greek myths, was all she could remember. "Because of my oh-so-busy schedule." Janet shrugged. "Mom and Dad have us in all kinds of lessons and afterschool stuff," Gloria said holding up her viola case. "Today, and all weekend we have music lessons with our instruments, as well as tutors who come by and give us extra language lessons." Gloria sighed. "Tommorrow, being Saturday, we'll be speaking Italian all day, though there are still some words I don't know." "You guy can speak itialan?" Caitlin asked. Janet frowned. "Itialian, German, French, Spanish, and of course, English," Janet said solemly. If she was bragging, it didn't sound like it. She looked at Caitlin. "So with all the lessons you go to, what do you learn?" "Dancing," Caitlin said a wisp of a smile comming to her face. Janet stopped and stared. She shook her head and hopped a few steps to catch back up. "Really?" she said, running her fingers through her hair. "Sounds fun." "It is, most of the time I suppose," Caitlin said, looking around. "Mostly when my mom's not there." "Telling you what to do, how to act, to be better, to scold," Janet put in. Caitlin looked at the girl from the side of her eyes. "Yeah, I know the feeling." They turned down the block to find themselves both near familiar areas. Up the street aways near the park was the dance studio that Caitlin had her lessons, and across the way from that where Janet and Gloria had theirs. "Can we go to the park?" Gloria asked pointing to the playground. Janet was quiet a moment. "Please?" "Okay, I guess," she looked over at Caitlin. Caitlin shrugged and led the way across the street. "Just don't get dirty. Father would be very displeased if you got dirty." Gloria became very somber and nodded, going off towards the swings with her viola in tow. "That's where I take lessons," Caitlin said pointing across the street. "Ballet?" Janet said seeing the toe shoes painted on a sign. Caitlin nodded. Janet smiled, "I would love to see a rehersal. I really like the music that goes along with it. Janet nodded to a simple building across the way cat-cornered to the dance studio. "We have our classes there. I never knew you went to the ballet school. Cool." |
| Amy came running out of the house an hour later her slinky outfit on looking sexier than ever. Robert didn't even have to honk the horn before Amy came running out og the house. As his girlfriend got in the car Robert looked into a window and saw a woman. Cautiously, Robert drove away and waited a few minutes before asking about the woman. "Who was the chick in the window? Mom?" "No cousin, evil manipulative cousin." Amy looked out the window and tried not to think of her conversation with her cousin. Robert drove on for another hour before they came to an abandoned warehouse with cars parked all around it. Getting out of the car first Robert ran and opened Amy's door. "You look pale babe, do you want to wait a sec before we go in?" Amy looked at her boyfriend as if he was a stranger. "No lets party," a smile crossed her face and Robert took her hand leading her to the back entrance. A husky man stood guard. "Name?" "Robert Lutz." The husky man took his thumb and pointed the couple to the door. Music blasted out of the building. Blacklights and glowsticks were every where. Woman in little to nothing clothing and men in bomber pants and white tanks that looked blue. "This is great!" Amy tried to yell at Robert over the noise but Robert just looked at her and pointed to his ear. Giving up, Amy took Robert's hand and led him to the dance floor. Amy raised her hands over her head while Robert placed his hands on her hips. This is the way things should be, he thought, Amy in that outfit and a great party. |
| Matt slammed his fist into is enemy's jaw, blood splattering across the fight club arena and hit the wall with a slobering wetness that slid down the wall onto the floor. Over the ropes came the large bouncer guys to stop Matt from going farther then he should, even though his enamy as Matt saw it tapped out three minutes ago. The two men grabbed Matt around the sides, he shouldered one into the corner post, dropping him to the mat. Reaching around the other man's shoulder, he spun him around to face him, he grabbed the man's face and headbutted the man making him collapse onto the mat in a nose-bleeding mess. "Enough!" a sphere of a man near an office door in the opisite corner, "Boy! Come over here!" Matt stepped threw the ropes and walked over the man, other then a black eye, no other injuries were showing. Matt wore no shirt, revealing his torso, he wasnt toned but he was big, barrell chested, all his 260 pounds of muscle shown the round man seemed impressed. "Do you know who they were?" the man asked pointing the men helping each other up from across the fighter's gym. After watching Matt shake his head, he said "that was my best fighter and those were my best bouncers, and you know what?" "Yeah?" Matt said rubbing his aching hands. "I think i found my next great fighter, be here monday at three PM, you are now part of my crew." the man patted Matt on the back and stepped into his office and closed the door. Matt walked past the ring he was just in and waved to the men recovering and grabbed his bag. He looked back at the office door and headed to the lockerroom where Katelyn gestured she would wait. "Kate you still here? Im ready, if you are?" Matt said comming around the corner, kate looked up from the writing pad that was in her lap,"Homework?" Kate nodded and placed the writing pad back into her backpack, she got up and leaned on the lockers by the door. "Then we leave," Matt said gesturing her to go first, she did and then he walked her to the car. "Well are you ready for another day of school?" she nodded smiling widly "yeah its fun, glad to see that smile again. the apartment will be ready tomarrow after school so im going to drive back to the school, and park in the lot at least you know we wont be late." Driving back to the school, Katelyn fell asleep on Matt's shoulder leaving the only thing for him to do when he got there was to lean back his seat a little, as much as you can in a two seater dolorean, and fell asleep himself. "Exuse me? What are you kids doing?" said the still blury figure outside Matt's window when he openned his eyes, "Its nearly two AM you two should head home. "Well officer, at the moment we are home, our apartment isnt ready til tomarrow, or today rather and we...all we have is the car." Mat said through trembling lips, not of the cold through his open window, but the fact that a police officer was standing not two feet away from him, the thing that he feared most, the possiblity of prision time. "Well, its ok i guess, but lets hope i dont find you two here again at this hour, doing god knows what." the cop said flashing the flash lite at the still sleeping Kate. "She's my sister, unless theres some weird law that passed then no thank you sir." Matt said a little more angeryly then he intended. |
| Natasha had decided not to go to school yesterday she just didn't feel up to it. Her dad got a call from the school saying she wasn't there and he was not pleased. "TASHA well if you can't get the motivation to take your self I am taking you right now get up." He said. Natasha threw on a really cute pair of pants and a small top that said "Simply Perfect" that really excentuated her figgure. She started to fix her hair. She never wore make up. When her dad started yelling again "come on lets go are you going to take all day?" She finally came down the stairs as cute as ever she grabed her coat. They walked out to the car in silence. Natasha was not the type to typicaly be scared of anything but she couldn't stop thinking about it. She couldn't get her crawling skin to rest. She had taken nine showers in the last 3 days. The last thing she wanted was to see him. Her father dropped her off at the front door. "Are you allright kiddo?" he asked. She jumped out of her thoughts. "what? Oh Yeah... I am fine.See ya." Natasha slowly got out and walked calmly looking confident from an outward apearence as she walked in the building. |
| By they time they were done at the park, it was almost 3:00, at which time Caitlin's mom would be picking her up from the school to take her to her ballet lesson. Caitlin said a hurried goodbye to Janet and her sister, and, feeling like a normal kid for once in her life, she sprinted back to the school. She arrived to sit on the front steps just moments before her mom pulled up to the school. "Hurry up, we're late already." Dawna said as Caitlin slipped into the car with her bag. She glanced at the clock, which showed 3:06 pm. Her lesson started at 3:15, and it took them 5 minutes to drive there. So, by Dawna's standards, they were one minute late. "Sorry." Caitlin said, not feeling up to arguing with her mom. Not that she ever did. But she had had a good afternoon for once in her life, and she didn't want to ruin things. They arrived at the ballet building, and Caitlin couldn't stop herself from look to the building across from it where Janet and her sister were most likely taking music lessons at that exact minute. "What are you looking at? Get in here." Dawna said, holding the door open for Caitlin. Caitlin apologized and hurried into the building, heading straight for the change rooms. In the change rooms, Caitlin slipped into her black long-sleeved nylon outfit, with no material over the legs. She jammed her feet into her worn, white ballet slippers and twisted and tied the silky ribbons around her ankles. Caitlin twisted her long hair into a tight and elegant bun at the back of her head, and a few strands immediatly fell loose. Making sure her arms were securely covered, Caitlin hurried out to the stage, where she was hit once again with the familiar bright spotlight. "Beethoven!" Caroline grinned after her greeting, and, with a flourish of her hands, she bent bracefully and turned on the tape player, where Beethoven music danced out. "You know the routine, petite dame!" Caroline called, and Caitlin did. She took her first pose, balanced up on the tip of her toes, her chin up and her neck long, her arms out straight at shoulder height, her face towards the audience, and waited for the cue in the music. It came, and she started off the routine with a gracefull, perfect triple-spin. |
| Back at the club Robert pushed a fake ID toward the bartender and ordered two drinks. Suddenly Amy's eyes widened. "Just one, please. I'm not drinking tonight," Amy said. She looked at Robert and smiled. "What? No drink?" Amy shook her head with a small reassuring smile. She put her hand on her stomach and could feel her stomach moving around upset. "Amy, are you sure you're okay?" "Positive," she added stubbornly as if she were talking to her cousin. "I just don't want a hang over tomorrow. My parents are coming home for the weekend." Robert raised his eyebrows and nodded. She'd never really mentioned her parents before. Suddenly she grabbed her purse and stood up. "Are we leaving?" Robert asked. She shook her head. "I am. I'm not feeling very good. I think I'm going home. I'll catch the bus or something," she said. Robert sat up straight. She'd never left without him before. "I can give you a ride home," he offered quickly. She shook her head and left quickly so he couldn't follow. Amy started weaving with surprising grace between people. Two guys went up on each side of her and started to dance. Amy tried to squeeze through, but neither would let her. "I need to go!" she yelled to them over the music. One smiled. "Aw! Come on babe! Let me get you a drink!" he yelled. Amy squinted with frustration. She had to leave and she had to leave now. "I'm only fifteen! You still want to try and get me drunk so you can fuck me now!" Amy yelled. At that moment literally the music halted at the end of the song and more people than she wanted to had heard her and looked at her and the guys. Both guys immediately backed away and Amy ran toward the nearest exit. The cool night air blew at her face and chilled her underclothed body. She shivered and looked across the street. There was a drugstore placed there that was like a sign from God. Her shivers began to get more violent at the sight, but she knew what she had to do. She had to see if she were pregnant or not. Amy stood up and ran across the street before she could change her mind. Her legs pumped and a car honked at her from the other side of the street. Amy charged into the store and immediately stopped when the bright lights came down on her. She looked around and saw the make up aisle and the pharmacy on the other side of the store. The girl quickly found a pregnancy test and took it to the front cashier. "Hi, is this..." the woman looked down at the pregnancy test and then at Amy. Amy was shivering and blue being so cold. Her hair was hair sprayed and up with glitter scattered all across it. Her tube top started to slip down and she pulled it up. "...all for you today?" the woman finished quickly. Amy nodded. She didn't care what she thought of her now. She wanted to know the answer. Amy handed her way too much money and grabbed the test before it could even be bagged. Then she ran to the bathroom. She had to know now. |
| The violin lesson ended at five o'clock sharp. Janet's mom waited impatienctly for her and Gloria to gather their papers and put away their instruments, all the while smiling serenely at the instructor as they did so. He gave them both a bat on the head and dissappeared into an interior room, leaving the three alone. The mother glared at them, and they hurried, not wanting to feel the rate of her ire any more than they were already. Once they were in the car, Sophia turned and looked at them. "Wait until we get home," she said quietly. She was really mad, the calm and quiet tone of her voice only emphasizing it. Gloria and Janet looked at each other from the side of their eyes, but dared not move their heads from faceing foward. "Your father and I have a few words for you." Sophia turned and started the car, heading home near the better part of town-or at least what Sophia called the better part of town. Because the ride was in complete silence, it seemed longer than it actually was. It always did. As Sophia drove up the driveway and parked the car, she seemed to move slower than she did, puncuating each motion with a pause at the begining and end. She turned off the engine and waited until the car relaxed before taking the keys out; She rested her hand on the dorr a moment before opening it, and again before stepping out. She paused and looked at the house before turning to open the back doors to herd Janet and Gloria out, pausing again before telling them to leave their intruments in the car. She hearded them inside, past the foyer, and into the living room where Harlod, their father stood staring into the freshly lit fireplace, a decanter open on the mantle, and a sniffer in his hand and he rested on an elow that perched on the mantel near the fire. In his free hand, he had a book. Gloria's eyes went wide and moved to go get the book, but Janet held her sister back by the gentlest of tugs on the back of her blouse. "Gloria," he said in a mockingly sweet voice, "Gloria, what is this?" He asked holding it up. The cover said, "The adventures of Alice in Wonderland." "A...a...a book sir," she said meekly. "I can see it's a book," he said frowning and putting up the glass of brandy. He turned to the girls, Sophia standing at his right wearing a matching grimace. "What kind of book is it?" When she didn't answer, he continuted. "Is it a history book?" Gloria shook her head. "Is it a biography perhaps? Or a refrence book?" Gloria shook her head again, "Perhaps a phliosophy book." Again, she shook her head. "I know, Gloria," he said, bending over to be inches away from her face, "Is it a work of fiction?" Slowly, Gloria nodded her head. "What kind of fiction is it Gloria?" he asked his voice very unpleasent. "It's a fantasy story, father," she said in the barest of whispers. "That's right, and what did I say about such stories?" he said holding the book up between them, so that the label that indicated it was borrowed from the library was readable." "That they are the work of the devil," Gloria answered in an even smaller voice. Janet broke in, reconizing the look in her father's eyes. "Father, its my fault," Janet said, bring her father's face and wrath to her. She stiffened her reslove and with the barest of touched to her sister, told her not to say a word. "There was a boy at the libray near the tables where we do out homework that left the book there. When he didn't return it, I picked it up and was going to put it on the cart. But my curiosity got the best of me, and I read the first page. It seemed innocent enough with the girl named Alice going on a picnic, so I borrowed it to read before going to sleep. Gloria wanted to read as well, so I sat in her room for an hour before bedtime as we read the story. We hadn't gotten far though sir." "You know the rules, Janet," said glaring down at the younger daughter. "Both you and Gloria knowingly broke them this time. Are you claiming full resposablility for this." Janet's lip quivered. "Yes sir," she managed to say. "Very well," he turned to Sohpia. Sophia took Gloria roughly by the arm up the stairs to her room. Janet started to take off her shirt, stripping to the waist, her shest covered by just her brazier; her skin was mottled with areas from yellow to brown, old bruises just begining to dissappear. As Gloria was shoved forcefully into her room, she caught sight of Janet as her father's hand came down on her back, using the book as a blunt object to drive home his punishment. |
| Robert ran out of the club looking for Amy but saw no sight from her. He was absolutly sure this time that they were going to break up. She had embarassed him in front of his friends. Robert lifted his hand to his right eye that was now black and blue. He could still see out of it but it hurt to open his eye all the way. The people he thought were his friends decided that him bringing a fifteen year old to a club for people over twenty one was rude and discrasfull. They pointed out he was jail bait and could easily be thrown in jail. Then they preceeded to kick his ass. Robert got in his car and drove off not caring where Amy was. The bitch could freeze to death. He thought he had treated her like a queen. He made her feel loved, appreciated. Well no more. Robert knew of yet another party going on and decided to go wallow in his pain and drink away the night while he bitched at someone about Amy. |
| Matt wole up to soft yelping of his sister, he leaned over and scratched the top of her head, still sleeping she pushed him away trying to kick in his direction. He shook her awake through her grunts and growls. "You were having that dream again wernt you?" He asked when she looked awake enough to hear him. She nodded and curled closer to the window. "You ok?" he asked trying again to get her to talk. But she simply nodded and rolled over. |
| Natasha walked around the building relizing in her dads furry she was extremly early. She set her bags down out side her first class and collapsed on the floor next to them and started to shuffle cards to take her mind off where she was. Slowly kids started to filter into the building. "Maybe he won't see me that I won't have to have any classes with him but of course that can't be the case. Knowing my luck I will have every class with him." She thought to her self aloud knowing know one was even giving her a second glance cause this was defently not in the norm for her normaly shed be runing around hunting down her friends seeing who had what classes |
| While most peoples weekends were filled with parties and fun, all Caitlin had ever known on her weekends were ballet lessons and homework. The phone in their home was barely ringing, and when it was it was always for Dawna. But this Saturday night was different. The phone rang not long after supper, just as Caitlin was taking a seat at the kitchen table with her homework. She glanced in the direction of the phone, which was laying on the kitchen counter, but otherwise ignored it, knowing it wouldn't be for her. Dawna answered it, and Caitlin perked when she handed it over to her, thinking maybe it was Janet. But Caitlin's shoulders slumped again as she heard the voice on the other end. "Hey sweetie pie." her father said. Caitlin didn't answer. "You there hun?" Dave asked. "Yes." Caitlin said. "Listen sweetie, how would you like it if I came into town next weekend? We could have a father-daughter day. Sound good?" "It's been almost two years since I've seen you, dad." Caitlin said. She couldn't believe he had the guts to ask her out for a 'father-daughter' weekend. "I know hun, I know, that's why I thought it would be fun to spend a little time together, you know, I-" "No, dad. I don't think so." Caitlin said, and handed the phone over to her mom, who hadn't left the kitchen. "Dave?" Caitlin listened to her mothers side of the conversation. "Do you know what you're doing to the poor girl? .....ME?! What do you- .....Don't you dare get me started on that, David! .....As soon as Caitlin gets her act together, she is going to be famous, and the world is going to know all about how she made it without her father, with her mother helping her along every step of the line, how- .....I don't want to hear from you again, David. And neither does Caitlin. We're all a lot better off without you in our lives." and with that, Dawna hung up the phone, turning back around. Her face was an angry red, and she was breathing hard and deep. "Sit up straight! And get that homework done, we can't afford to have your grades slip." she snapped, and stormed out of the kitchen. |
| Back at the drug store a middle-aged woman who worked at the cashier and who'd recently seen the young fifteen year old come in and buy a pregnancy test was getting ready to leave. Her name was Nancy and the girl she'd seen was Amy. Nancy kept a close eye on the bathrooms. Through Nancy's entire shift no one had left the bathroom. "Nance," said someone at the register next to her. She turned to face her co-worker. "Take the rest of the night off. It's too slow for both of us to be sitting here doing nothing." Nancy grinned. "Thanks Marge. I think I will," Nancy said. She walked over to the employee's lounge and picked up her coat. As she passed the bathroom she paused. That girl was still in there. Nancy raised a knuckle and knocked lightly. "Excuse me, is everything all right?" A sudden sobbing was heard. "No!" said Amy's stern voice. Nancy took out her keys and opened the door. Amy was leaning over the toilet in her skimpy party outfit and her once hair sprayed hair dangling down from where it was once tied up. The sparkles that were in her hair lost their glamor and mascara was smeered with tears under her eye. "What's wrong dear?" Nancy asked placing her purse down. Amy choked on her sobs and pointed up to the bathroom sink. Then she leaned over and threw up, because she was so disgusted with herself. Nancy saw the pregnancy test where the two boxes showed definitely clear plus signs. "Oh my," Nancy said. "My...parents," she started before reconisidering her words. "My boyfriend is going to be so pissed." Her head fell in her hands and then her fist slammed into the tile so hard that she was sure her hand would be purple in the morning. "I don't give a fuck about him anymore! He can rot in hell for all I care! He can...can...Screw it! I'll kill the bastard myself!" Nancy closed the door and knelt down on the floor. Amy immediately fell into her chest for a comforting hug while panting for breath from the heavy cries. Nancy held her and stroked her hair that was stiff with hair products. She rocked her gently in her hug. A new experience for Amy. Her parents were never around much so the only hugs she knew were friendly or romantic. Nancy's hugs were comforting and loving. Amy fell limp in her hold and felt her tense body relaxing. "Calm down, girl. You're angry because you're scared and no one can blame you for that," Nancy said. "What's your name darlin'?" "Amy," she said wiping her nose. "I'm such a whore. I'm a slut. But I've learned my lesson. I'm going to get an abortion before anyone finds out." "Hush child!" Nancy snapped pulling her away by her shoulders and staring her in the eye. "There is a life in you right now whether you like it or not." For some reason hearing this was shocking. "That life trusts you and wants you to take care of it. Don't you turn your back on it." Amy's lip started to quiver. "I can't take care of a life. I can't even take care of myself. I'm not even sixteen yet and I'm pregnant. Oh God, I'm pregnant." Nancy reached for her purse and unzipped it. Amy leaned against the wall and hugged her knees. Nancy came over to her and sat next to her with a wallet in her hands. She opened it to the first picture and handed it to Amy. The picture was a young girl that was maybe a year older than her. She wore a cap and gown with a beautiful smile and bright happy brown eyes. "Who's this?" Nancy smiled proudly. "My oldest. Her name is Destiny. She's my pride and joy. Actually she just turned sixteen. I had her when I was her age." Amy smiled. "She looks nice." "My Destiny is a doll. I wouldn't give her up for anything in the world." Nancy held Amy's hands in hers. "When I found out she was coming I was scared as hell. My parents were ashamed and after a few conflicts they sent me to live with my aunt. I thought it was the most horrible thing to happen to me and while she was growing inside of me I hated her. I thought angry thoughts about her every second of everyday. Then when I finally gave birth and I held her in my arms. I couldn't believe it. She was the most beautiful, important thing in my life. She was my Destiny." Amy sniffed and smiled. Nancy smiled too. "Now I never went off and killed her father, but I got along perfectly fine without the man. Destiny's only seen her father twice, but all in all the experience was not nearly as bad as I thought. If I had to do it all over again, I would for my little girl. Pregnancy is scary, but being a mother is wonderful. God had this happen for a reason. You were chosen to bring a new person in the world." A single tear fell and Amy shook with fear and coldness of the tiles in the bathroom. "But I'm still afraid. What kind of life could I provide for a child?" Amy asked. Nancy squeezed her hands gently. "That is completely up to you," she said. Nancy stood up. "Come on, dear. Let's get you home." Nancy handed her the coat and wrapped it around Amy's shoulders. "Thank you so much," Amy whispered her mind whirling with thoughts. |
| Gloria entered Janet's room with a bowl of cereal and some intant hot-cocoa on a tray, shuffling towards her sister's bed so as not to spill a drop of the hot chocolate or cold milk. Janet, on her stomach, watched her little sister make her way across the carpeted floor from the door, only willing herself to get up when Gloria reached her side with the food. Her night shirt covered the bruises, though her movements betrayed the pain in them. "Thank you," Janet said hoarsely to her sister, at least managing a smile. Gloria nodded, and as soon at the tray was stable on Janet's lap, she sat on the bed, taking up the mug of cocoa. Janet then noticed that there were two. "Have you eaten?" Gloria nodded, looking at Janet over the rim of the mug. "Don't worry about me, I'll be fine." "Mom and Dad are gone for the weekend," Gloria said finally. "Aunt Millicent came early this morning to watch over us. They said that they both had buisness to take care of elsewhere." Janet wolfed down the cornflakes quickly, not wanting to eat them soggy; she hated soggy cornflakes, and didn't want to get into trouble for having food go to waste. She raised her eyebrows at the news. "They gave me instructions to pass to you when you woke. They said to behave, or they will find out about it. Father said that he'll make last night seem like a walk in the park if you don't behave and be good. And not tell Aunt Millicent anything that she doesn't ask about." Janet nodded, drinking down the milk carefully. Millicent entered a smile on her young face. "Morning kids," she said with a cheery smile. They both gave a very practiced plastic smile. "Morning Aunt Millicent," they chimed in unison. "Oh, no, just Millie," she said waving her hands. "I'm not old enough to be 'Millicent'. Well, my brother left a list of instructions for me, but how about we forget them for now and get to know each other a bit more, eh?" The two looked at each other. "What about our lessons?" Juliet asked, snapping her mouth shut, realizing that she had just went against her father's wishes already. Millie smiled. "Don't worry, We'll have all your lessons at the park today," she said looking out the window. "It's such a lovely day to waste spending indoors. I've made a call to all the turtors on the list and they will be meeting us there. And..since your music lessons are just across the street from the park, you can bring your instruments too." She smiled. "Now, chop chop! The day's a-wasting!" She said with a clap, taking the tray from Janet. Feeling there was definately something diffrent with her aunt from her parents, she bit her lip before venturing out. She figured if she was going to get into trouble, this was worth getting in trouble for. "Mille," she said as her aunt neared the door. "Hummm?" "Can I um, invite a friend?" "Of course dear," Millie said exiting. "After all, what's a day in the park without friends," she sung down the hall. "I wish she was our mom," Gloria whispered, laying her head in Janet's lap. Janet nodded in agreement. "Are you going to ask Caitlin to come?" Janet nodded. "We can all do our homework there," Janet said with a smile. "I hope that her mom will let her." "Well, if she doesn't right off, tell her that Caitlin will have the help of a private tutor," Gloria said making a funny face and grinning. "I don't think that any parent could say no to free lessons." Janet laughed. "Your right about that." |
| Robert had drank away the night and part of the morning to. When he woke up to go to class he had one hell of a hangover. Robert had stopped at Amy's house while he was on his drunken rage but was only told that she was not back yet. He couldn't get the felling that Amy was hidding something and not telling him. What a shock, woman always lie, Robert said to himself in the middle of Math 060. He was going to talk to Amy tonight and break things off. The relationship had already gone longer than he had wanted. But the sex was so good!!!!!!!! |
| Caitlin's mother was the one to answer the phone when it rang. Again, she listened to her mother's side of the conversation. "Hello?....May I ask who is speaking?....A friend? I'm sorry, Caitlin is not able to come to the phone right now. She had to finish her homework....I am afraid that isn't possible, her schedule is very busy....Well I am glad you understand. I will let her know you called. Goodbye." But when she left the kitchen and passed Caitlin from her spot in the couch with her book containing the three chapters she had to read for Monday, Dawna didn't say a word. ------------------------------------------------- "There is no rush, petite dame!" Caroline called as Caitlin struggled through her morning class. Her mind was still jammed with the memory of her mother keeping the information of Janet's phone call from her. Of course, she was only assuming that it was Janet, but she was at least 99% sure it was her. Because of this, Caitlin couldn't concentrate on her routine or the music, and she was at least a beat and a half ahead of the music. "Perhaps you stretch, yes?" Caroline said, stopping the music. Caitlin nodded silently and headed to the bar, where she stretched her legs. "We don't have time for this Caitlin, get your act together!" Caitlin heard her mother snap from the her seat. With one last stretch, Caitlin hurried back out to center stage. Caroline pressed play and counted her into her first step. "And one...two...three...GO!" Caitlin hit the first spin, no problem. She nailed the second triple, easily. But her muscles froze on the third. Her slippered foot stumbled and her arms swung like windmills to regain her balance. Keeping her face expressionless as stone, she caught her place. Into her next move, her mothers scowl stuck in her minds eye. Spin, spin, jump, spin, jump, jump... "Loose, Caitlin! You are much too tense!" Caroline called, studying her from her spot beside the tape player. Caitlin attempted to relax her muscles. This was not one of her more-enjoyed dancing times. And to think that the big competition was up in three weeks. |
| Amy awoke in her bedroom with a start. What happened? Oh yes, last night. Oh, it wasn't a fun one. Amy laid back in bed. "I am not going to school today," she grumbled. "Oh yes you are," said Leslie. Amy sat up and saw Leslie in the corner of her room. She walked up to her and knelt down beside the bed in a sisterly way of comforting her. "Your parents are coming by for the weekend and they're getting here today. I don't want them to think something is up. So would you please go to school or at least pretend to go to school. I know you must have a hang over..." Amy looked at her with dead serious eyes. "I didn't drink last night," she said. Then she turned her head and looked at the ceiling. "I will never drink again as long as I live." Leslie laughed. "Are you sure you weren't drinking last night?" she joked. Amy didn't laugh. "You were right. I'm pregnant. I am fucking pregnant. You were right, I was wrong. You're smart, I'm stupid. You're classy, and I am a whore." Leslie's eyes widened. After a moment her mouth gaped. Amy let the a single tear fall. Leslie stood up, but didn't move from the side of her bed. Amy closed her eyes and didn't make a sound. Another tear fell against her will. "Please say something. Something comforting." Leslie swallowed. "Go to school or stay at a friend's house. Not a word to you parents about this." |
| "Again, from the top." Janet and Gloria counted the beat in their head, following their teacher's conducting, along with nearly all of his other students. Apparently, there was a rehersal of some sort comming up, and he was asked to conduct for them. And he wanted all of his students to play. All of them. Janet and Gloria knew that their parents would only approve if they got solos. They sighed and went through the measure again, going over each note for what must have been the hundreth time. When they were finally given a break, their aunt clapped along with a lot of the parents of other kids from the back of the class. "I want more practice from all of you," the teacher said with a dissapproving frown. "I want perfection. Today, I want the strings to stay back one hour. No charge to the parents," he said glancing to the back, knowing that was what some of them were thinking. "We will work on their solo for the preformance." "It's too bad Caitlin couldn't come," Gloria said as she pushed through and made her way to the door several hours later. The sun was just setting, and it seemed the lights were just starting to take hold in the neighborhood. "Yeah, hanging out before that grueling session would have been nice," Janet replied, sticking her case next to Gloria's in the trunk. "From the way that her mom sounded though, I doubt that getting her tickets to the 'rehersal' would be a good idea either. Caitlin would be too busy." Janet sighed. SHe wished she could talk to her mom to see, but she knew what her mom would say; 'You have better things to do than to hang out with your friends.' She sighed again, and looked out the window to watch the lights pass along as they headed home. |
| Robert walked into the high school with one thing on his mind. Breaking up with Amy. Then he would leave for his own school. He had a pyshc test later that day. Robert saw Amy go into the girls bathroom. She looked tired but that was her fault. She was probably out fucking some other guy last night. She had not respect for him. Then he saw the girl called Janet going in the bathroom too. Maybe if he hurried up he could catch up to her and ask her to get Amy out of the bathroom. He barley made it. Janet looked at Robert as he called her name. "Hey." "Hey can you get Amy. I need to talk to her." "Sure," Janet said, "Amy your boyfriend is here. See ya Robert." "Bye Janet." Amy walked out of the bathroom. "Go away you heartless dick. Wait till I com ein your sleep and chop the damn thing off!" "What!" Robert didn't know what was going on. |
| "Go away you heartless dick. Wait till I com ein your sleep and chop the damn thing off!" "What!" Robert didn't know what was going on. "Just go! Before i scream for security!" Amy yelled at the top of her lungs. "Fine! I dont care about you bitch anyway!" Robert retorted back. "Apparently" Matt said as he turned the corner, "is there a problem dear, need me to get rid of him?" He asked looking down at Amy. "Yes, he was trying to rape me! Stupid Prick!" Amy moved to kick Robert but Matt picked him up before she could get there. "YOU DID WHAT!?" Matt asked robert no closer then an inch away from his face,through clenched teeth "You will never touch a nother girl if i have my way." "What are you going to do about it fastso!" Robert wrenched from his grip and backed up a step,"Your nothing but useless flab!" Matt grabbed robert's arm and picked robert up and against his chest, He gave him the biggest bear hug he could muster, for if he did anything else he would have killed the boy. Matt didnt stop until he heard a rib snap, he then dropped the boy to the hard ground, "Come on you piece of waste!" Matt grabbed his collar and dragged the boy to the main door and tossed him into the bushes, "If i ever see you touch another girl even if its wanted i will kill you, POUND your head, until its soft enough to use for a door stop, then feed it to you with some katsup. YOU HEAR ME?!" |
| Natasha left class and as she stepped into the hall way. "HEY TASH" Nick yelled over a crowd. She stopped dead not knowing what to do she turned around and smiled. "Hey girls," He said putting his arm around her. "Was that a Rocking party or what and Man can you dance. So I know its a week night and all but there is going to defently be a party tonight and well your just the life of the party. Well at least seeing you dance is the life of my party." He looked her over and smiled. Natasha just wanted to puke. "I..Can't.. I just absolutly can't tonight Nick." she tried to sound disapointed. "Is there something wrong girl or did I just hear wrong did you turn down an invite to dance." Nick was genualy disapointed "I am not feeling to hot." Natasha said truthfully "Well girl your looking fine from here...You must really be sick. Well if your sure. I'll hope to see you any ways." Nick went on down the hall. "Party My place tonight! gonna be there?" Nick asked a group as he passed them down the hall. "Nick didn't know what had happend thats a good sign but lord knows he will be there that scum bag I can't avoid him if I go. I will just stay home and lock my self in my room or something." Natasha thought to her self as she walked down the hall. "...he was trying to rape me! Stupid Prick!" A girls voice said loudly down the hall. Natasha just Shuddered "Rape" she thought. Natasha happend to be walking by when Matt threatened Robert. She tried hard to pretend like she didn't notice but she had cringed when she heard the word "Rape". She glanced over and kept walking towards her next class praying no one noticed her and she could just get to class with out having to try and manage words. |
| Caitlin was hurrying through the hallway when she passed by the scene. She stopped, startled, and looked from Amy to Robert to a guy she didn't know, but had only heard about; Matt. Or "Goat" as some people called him. She backed away, frightened, as Matt crushed Robert and then dragged him down the hall. She looked up at Amy as Matts retreating back left, and saw the look in her eyes. "Come on Amy." Caitlin said, gently taking Amy's arm. She led her into the bathroom, where she grabbed some paper towel and wet it with cool water, handing it to her. "Are you okay?" Caitlin asked quietly. Amy nodded silently. Caitlin didn't want to pry, but she was curious as to what had happened. She stood awkwardly by Amy. "Thanks." Amy said quietly. Caitlin nodded. "You want to talk about it?" "There's nothing to talk about." Amy said after a pause, putting on a weak smile. "I'm...I'm going to go to class now." Amy said. Caitlin nodded. "Go ahead, I need to use the washroom." Caitlin said quietly. When the door was safely closed behind Amy, Caitlin locked herself into a cubicle, positive that the bathroom was empty. She sat down shakily on the toilet, and opened her bag with a trembling hand. She let her bag fall down by her feet. With the peice of cloth with its comforting metal wrapped inside held tightly in her hand, she pulled up her sleeve. Unfolding the material in her hand, she found a clean spot, and closed her eyes. Slowly, her breathing returned to normal. |
| Amy walked away feeling terrible, but almost as if she wanted to giggle. Serves him right. That boy and his stupid sperm. Suddenly common sense kicked in. It wasn't his fault. It took two people to do what they did. Amy turned and started to jog. "Robert," she said. She ran faster. "Robert!" Furious and bleeding Robert turned. "What? What the hell is it, Amy?" he said. Amy shrank back a little offended. "I'm sorry," Amy said. "I've been going through a lot lately." Robert laughed and rubbed his ribs painfully. "Yeah, no kidding," Robert groaned. Suddenly he sat down on the ground. His rib hurt more than he thought. Amy knelt down beside him. "Are you okay?" Amy asked. The pain seemed to stab him suddenly. He let out a loud yell that echoed through the entire school. "My rib! My fuckin' rib!" he shrieked. Amy reached into her cell phone and started to call an ambulance. |
| The fastest minutes of the day was those five that you get between classes. And lunch. Sitting in the classrooms listening to the teachers just drone on was like listening to cats sing on fences. Even the extracurricular class of music that Janet took was dull. She sat near the back of the class listening to various students at various levels of proficency with three other students- whom had their own personal instruments as well since they went to the same tutor afterschool. While they went over the upcomming rehersal, Janet just sat there looking at the rest of the class while they played either abismally or so well they actually had a chance at Julliard. She gave a ry grin at one of the students with the flute as his notes seemed to float on an invisable breeze. "And he doesn't even have a private tutor," she thought as he went through a rendition on an excerpt from the Nutcracker. Usually, she was practicing her violin, or as today would have it, the flute. She looked down at the sheet of music infront of her given by the teacher and gave a small sigh. It looked like an up beat melody. At the moment, she doubted she could match Aaron's tone on the flute, so she sat quietly, paitently waiting her turn before the teacher. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Janet looked at her watch as she sat on the steps. Her aunt would be picking her up soon, and as her parents weren't back from their trip, she wanted to stay in Millie's good graces. She took out her flute and put it together, thinking of the notes that she could play as she pulled out each peice. Once it was together, she brought it up to her lips and blew tenatively over the hole. After dancing out a basic scale, she looked over to see one of the girls from her history class. If Janet remembered, she was new and didn't talk. She gave a small smile in greeting, and Janet returned it, remembering what her name was. "Your...Kate," She said in a questioning manner, "Right?" Kate nodded in responce. She mimiced playing the flute and smiled. Janet thought a moment. "Okay," she said slowly, guessing at Kate's meaning, "But I can't promise a happy tune." And with that, Janet started to play, the notes comming out in an airy melody, with a feeling of a heavy weight of fog, yet hopeful like a summer drizzle. Kate smiled, and Janet wondered if the silent girl was feeling the same way as she did about life. A boy came around the corner of the building and Kate got up. When Janet saw him, she stopped mid-note and put her flute away quickly. As he neared, she stood and moved to leave, turning to Kate quickly. "I hoped you liked it," Janet said with a smile, but fear dancing over her features. She saw what the kids had called 'the goat' done to Robert, so she didn't want to be anywhere in visual range of him if she could avoid it. Luckily, she could see her aunt's car near the gate. She gave a quick wave, running across the parking lot, giving Matt a mile-wide berth to keep out of his possible range. She wanted to take no chances. |
| The ambulence came and picked up Robert telling him that he has a broken rib and it might have punctured something so they wouldbe taking X-rays. Amy sat in the ambulence with her boyfriend. She didn't mean for that boy to beat the hell out of Robert but she was't all that sad either. "What happened ma'am?" the E.R doctor asked as Robert was wheeled in. "Some guy beat him up." "Why?" the doctor asked. "Um, I don't think I can disclose that." "The hell you can't why was teh crap beaten out of me Amy?" Robert asked. It hurt him to breath. "I'll tell you later. Right now just answear the doctors questions." Amy said. She didn't want to tell Robert she was pregnet yet. |
| Caitlin's dance lesson that afternoon after school went suprisingly well. "Tres bien, petite dame! Tres bien!" Caroline said, clapping her hands to the music. It was one of the more livelier tunes to The Swan Princess, the one which Caitlin would be auditioning for in the upcoming competition. It was going to be a large show, with many dancers, but only one Swan Princess. For the auditions she would have to do this song, and a slower tune. She wanted more then anything to get that part. And maybe, if she continued like this, she just might. That was stupid though, and Caitlin knew it. She always ruined things, it was a rare thing for her to have a good practice, and she was surprised time and time again that Caroline chose to remain her teacher. Caitlin didn't know what her mother would do if Caroline quit. When the song finished, Caroline gave Caitlin a break, at which point she went to the stretching bar with her water bottle, taking a few sips. Maybe...maybe if she made it into the show, she could invite Janet. Her mother would never have to know, Cailtin could buy Janet a ticket with her own money. Maybe even her little sister too. It would be wonderful to know there was someone friendly in the audience, someone who wouldn't care if she screwed up, someone like Janet. Or maybe Janet would even be playing with in the band! Caroline had told her that the band being taken on for the play was going to be a student band, one with an excellent teacher who had been working hard to prepare them. And Janet had mention something about having a lot of music lessons, so maybe that was it. Caitlin shook her head as she stretched her leg. She shouldn't be thinking about friends right now, friends just got in the way. What she needed to be thinking about was getting her act together and getting this part. |
| It was the end of the day and Amy had spent plenty of long hours in the waiting room. Roberts mother spent plenty of time fussing around him, but soon the doctor kicked her out of the room. Amy folded her arms across her chest and held in her tears. "Damn hormones," Amy grumbled to herself. A doctor came in and saw Amy. She started walkin towards her. Amy stood up automatically. "Excuse me? Did you come in here with a young man named Robert?" the doctor said. Amy tucked her hair behind her ears. "Yes, I did," Amy said. "He has a broken rib, but that's all," said the doctor. Amy nodded and a wave of relief sent shivers down her back. She nodded and the doctor led her into the doctor's room. Robert's mother got up and walked out the room to get some food from the cafeteria. Robert looked up lazily at Amy and stared coldly. Amy looked down with her hands crossed in front of her. "I'm really sorry, Robert," Amy whispered. She gulped. "You didn't deserve that and I'm sorry." Robert nodded to her and looked away. Amy sat at the side of the bed in a plastic covered chair. She reached for his hand to comfort him suddenly feeling the need to practice motherly nature. Robert looked down and took his hand back gently. "You don't have to stay here," Robert said softly. "But it was my fault. What I did was childish," Amy said. Robert turned his head and gave her a funny look. "What?" He shook his head. "Nothing. I've just never heard you talk like that before," he said. Amy looked down almost shamefully. "Well, I realize I have a lot of growing up to do in a short period of time. I've also got a lot of things to get done," Amy said. She smiled. "After all, I'm turning sixteen next week." Robert smiled, but didn't really show very much emotion otherwise. Amy stood up and patted his hand. Then he laid her hand on her stomach. "I realize also that we're over," Amy said. "So I want you to know that out of personal interests I don't think we should talk to each other again." Robert's face fell. She fell her heart beat weakly as pain struck her chest. She ignored it and held her head high. "I can take care of myself." |
| Natasha was walking towards the front doors of the school when class was over and she saw Matt. "Hey Matt you did a really great thing earlier today." She said and kept walking. Then she relized she had no car. She fell to the ground and put her hands over her face and just wanted to be home. She collected her self and pulled out her cell phone. "Hey Dad its your Daughter yeah you dropped me off today.... Thanks." she said and hung up. a couple of people walked by. "See you tonight Tash." Her dad finally got there she got in the car. "Hey Tasha your friend Jordan I think it was called and asked me to tell you there was a party tonight. Be home by 2 and you have to go to school tomarow. I have to work so I am just gonna drop you off at the house." "Umm Dad.." "yes?" "Have fun at work" she got out of the car. "I am sure you'll be the one having fun not me." he said Natasha smiled weakly. Natasha went to her room. "she had to go to that damn party because everyone would know if she wasn't there and that would bring up more question than anything. I wish Matt would be there." She thought this to her self Natasha took another shower scrubbed her skin raw and got dressed in nice dancing out fit that was a little more modest than her typical parting outfit would be. She got into her car and hesitated to start it . "Maybe he wont even be there." She thought taking her head off of the stearing wheel she started the engine. "Gah... I wish I didn't feel so Alone." She yelled. |
| Amy, Leslie, her younger brother Toby and youngest sister Lily sat anxiously in the living room. Amy and Leslie exchanged worried looks. Mother and Father were coming home. The door opened and everyone stood up except for Lily who was still an infant and sitting in Leslie's arms. "Dad!" Toby yelled. He ran across the room and hugged his dad. The older, well aged man smiled. "Whoa, hey Sport," he laughed. The Mother bent down and hugged him. "Oh my goodness! You're getting so big," she said. Then walked over to Leslie and took Lily from her arms. "Hello Leslie. How are the kids?" she asked. Lily started to cry in her mother's arms. She shushed her and gave Leslie little time to answer. "Lily! Honestly! You'd think you wouldn't even know your own mother." "They're all fine Aunt Jen. Lily's learned to run and is reeking havoc wherever she goes," her niece informed. Her mother looked at Amy. "Just like someone else in the family." Amy froze and then forced herself to laugh. Her mother leaned over and kissed her oldest daughter. "How are you dear? Oh, you are becoming such a woman! I need to come home more often. These kids are growing up without me!" she laughed. Amy felt disgusted. Her parents were only home for weeks at a time and were gone for months. You'd think she'd realize they don't wait for her to come home to continue growing. Amy smiled. "I think I'm going up to my room," Amy said quickly and jogged up the stairs. |
| It was too good to last and Janet knew it. If she didn’t play with her eyes closed most of the time, listening to the melody, and only looking at the notes and conductor intermittently, she would have probably broken several strings on her bow when her parents entered the hall. The teacher was having them practice in the orchestra pit of the theater where they would be playing in a few weeks time. While she played, she thought about how or if she could invite Caitlin to hear, or at least watch the dance company that they were playing for. She knew that the girl was a dancer, and even with a schedule that nearly mirrored hers in terms of lack of time, surely her mother would want her to go see something like a recitle as inspiration to be better. Janet was thinking about the various ways to get her a ticket, and even if she couldn’t come, it would still be nice, just because of the fact that she had someone to give it to. Then she came back to reality and berated her self. Looking at the stage as the conductor/teacher let them go, she thought, that she might actually be one of the dancers on the stage. She smiled at the thought. Maybe she could ask her. Her parents waited for her by the door, a sure indication that they were back, and were taking no chances that she and run amok while they were gone. As if. The next Monday, she made way as quickly as she could to where she knew Cait’s locker was to slip the note and ticket in. Instead she saw the girl, depositing her books to get ready to go to lunch. “Caitlin!” she called out, weaving between two students. Caitlin turned around and smiled at her. Janet smiled back.. “Heading to lunch? Mind if I come?” she asked. Running a hand through her hair, she sighed, “But just for a bit, as I’ve got to get some of my homework for French done.” “Um, sure,” she said, realizing that lunch was probably the only real free time that she had all day. Caitlin wondered if she should invite Janet and her sister to the recital. “Um,” Janet said, voicing the same thought that Caitlin was thingking, both confirming the other’s idea. “There’s a recital that my music class is playing for, and I thought that since you’re a dancer, you’d like to see it,” she said, holding up a ticket, “I figured that your mom couldn’t say no to that.” Caitlin smiled showing the two tickets that she had been ready to give Janet to the same recital. “I’m going to be one of the dancers on stage,” she said, finding the situation somehow funny. They both giggled, smiling at that. “Then we might be able to see each other a bit more,” the musician said, “As my teachers says that the closer we get to ‘curtain’, the more we will practice and even practice with the dancers so that we will both get used to each other” Janet said, doing a mock imitation of her teacher at the last part. “That would be nice,” Caitlin replied slowly as they sat down in the cafeteria with their lunches brought from home. She thought about her mother, and the phone call. Janet’s face grew dark a bit too. Janet was thinking on how now that her parents were back, they wouldn’t want her friends to be anything less than perfect, and would want to meet with their parents, judging the ‘worthiness’ of the friend by the parents. “But let’s try and keep it from my parents,” she said as Caitlin said the same thing. They looked at each other surprised, and gave a smile, though neither went into the details. As soon as the food was gone, they both stood and made their way back to the school, where their busy schedules would take them over again. |
| Robert laid in bed back at home and sighed. He wasn't suppose to do any heavy lifting or a lot of walking. The pain hurt but not as much as when Amy said that she couldn't see him anymore. He was suppose to be the one to turn HER down not vice versa. But he missed her. She was funny, beautiful and fun to be around. But in his hospital room she had acted older then her age and wiser. And the mood swings! Oh my god! One minute she was nice and calm and the next moment she was having this weird ass kid beating the crap out of him. What was wrong with her? Then a thought struck him. No that can't happen, they used protection. He had to call her and get this all setteled out. |
| Natasha arrived at the party and sure enough Nick had rounded up a huge crowd of people. She strolled up to the front door head high. Nick opened the door and smiled. "I knew it I knew you would be here." Nick said As I came through the door. "Well I guess you know me better than I do Nick." Natasha said. AS she walked past Nick looked her up and down. "I wish I knew you a little better" Nick said under his breath. Natasha made her way to the couch cause there wasn't much in the way of dancing going on yet. He wasn't here yet that was a miracle. |
| Caitlin Caitlin was ecstatic. And for the rest of the day, she seemed to be walking on air. For the first time, she had felt like she really had a friend. Not like she had felt at the park with Janet and her sister, but different. They had giggled together, made plans together, and for the first time Caitlin could remember, shared a secret together. The secret of their budding friendship and the recital. Caitlin could never remember having an actual friend before, having someone to giggle with and talk about girl things and tell secrets to. She wondered what Janet would say if Caitlin showed her her arm. If she shared that secret with her. What would Janet do? Caitlin realized what she was doing, and scared herself out of her happiness. What was she doing? What was she thinking? No one must ever know about her secret. No one. Ever. Her life would be ruined if anyone found out about that. Her carefully contructed walls would tumble down, and she would be vulnerable to everything around her. No one must ever find out about that. Caitlin would have to have a friend without secrets attached. But she had a nagging feeling that there was a deep secret Janet was keeping from her too, a secret she never wanted anyone to find out about. Like that day she had seen her in the bathroom... Caitlin danced better then she remembered doing in over a month that afternoon. Caroline cheered and Caitlin felt her mother beaming in the audience. And for the first time in a long time, Caitlin actually enjoyed dancing. |
| Robert tapped his fingers eagerly on the table top while he listened to Amy's end of the line ring. Sweat and condensation gathered in the pits of his shirt, but what did he care. He was home. "Hello?" said the female voice. Robert jumped out of his seat and stood up straight. "Amy, you've been acting really weird. Now answer me this and answer me truthfully. Are you-" Robert was cut off by the sound of the voice shouting in the distance. "Amy! Telephone," said the woman he was talking to and obviously wasn't Amy. Amy picked up the phone and groaned. "Hello?" "Amy it's Robert. I have to ask. Are you..." his voice trailed off into nothing as he lost his wit. "Are you..." Amy listened to him stammer from her own bed. She buried her face in her hands and muffled her own sobs. "Robert, I'm pregnant," Amy admitted impatiently. "You..." Robert said trailing off again. "What? But how could it happen?" Amy laid on her back with one hand in her hair. "Robert, you know exactly how it happened." "We used protection! You were on birth control," Robert argued. A tear fell. "No I wasn't. I didn't have the nerve to ask my doctor. I thought the condoms would be enough. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry." Her sobs had Amy heaving for breath. Snot ran down and she wiped her nose with her sleeve. |
| Robert saw his life vanish before his eyes. His dream of being a doctor escaped him as he held the telephone reciever in his hand. He was right about her being pregnet. But it was all her fault, he tried to tell himself but it didn't sink in. It took two people of the oppisite sex to create a baby. "Okay, well let's go to the doctor to make sure. If you are...you know... pregnet," th eword got stuck in his throat, "then we'll make a game plan. I guess I should ask you to marry me right now." Robert heard Amy stop crying on the other end. "Damn you and your stupid ass penis! I can't believe that your being so calm about this. I'm fucking pregnet and it your and your damn sperms fault!" Amy yelled as she threw the phone across the room. As she returned to normal, well as normal as a pregent woman gets, she picked up the phone and took a calm breath. "Sorry." She said into the receiver. "Maybe we should wait to get married after the baby is born. That way I don't have to live with a woman with mood swings." The comment didn't upset Amy though. Isn't this what she had been wanting for the last couple of months? It was but she had planned on him getting down on one knee and marring her because he loved her, not because he had to. Amy thought about if what she really wanted was to marry Robert. |
| "No. Forget it," Amy said. Robert sighed on the other end of the line. "Amy..." he started. "I said no and I mean it. I want to marry for love like every other person. We both should. Now if we're going just go right out and say let's get married it should be for the right reasons. I'll understand if you don't want to be in the baby's life. I can handle this on my own," Amy said. She wanted to put down the phone, but she hesitated. "Amy, please. You don't understand. I can't abandon you or this kid. Do you know why i've never introduced you to my dad?" he said. Amy was quiet. "It's because I have no idea who he is. I'm not going to let my kid go through that." "But you don't love me," Amy said. "Who ever said that!" Robert snapped. "I-I love you." Amy's face twisted into a snarl she growled frustrated and her fists balled up beside her. "Don't do that to me, Robert! Don't mess around with my feelings. I know you don't mean it!" Amy started to cry. "So you're going to have to be a lot more convincing than that!" She hung up on him and slammed the phone back into its holder. |
| It was an open rehersal. Janet sat in her chair in the orchestra pit adjusting the strings to her violin; her parents -or rather her mother- was in the audience along with several other parents to watch the practice. She reconized a few of them as ones that sat in just outside of lessons at the music school. She figured that the others must be for the dancers back stage. She idly wondered which one could be Cat's mom as she pluck a few cords. She gave a small smile and drew her bow along a few happy cords, thinking on how she had a friend. She winced as the skin streached over the back of her arm, and she set the instrument down, a fresh bruise just under the white sleeve. Janet gave a sigh and looked at her sister across the way with her won instrument, sitting with the younger students who were to play a simpler melody on their instruments. There's no way either one of them could tell her what happened to her. She didn't want pity, or anything. Just a friend. Would her secret get in the way? Janet looked to the stage and saw the dancers appear in a line, their instructor following, a grown swan with it's charges out infront. She saw her 'secret' friend, and gave the slightest of waves with her bow, picking up the violin and turning her eyes to her own teacher as he raised the conductors wand. Even if she was sore, and it hurt to play and sit, she would play her best for the only friend she had. At first break, the dancers were rushed off stage, followed by the musicians into the wings, leaving the parents in the auditorium; because of such small backstage space, the parents weren't allowed behind the curtain, making the scene seem bigger with only a hand full of adults and a couple dozen children and teens. Janet placed a bottle of cold water on the neck of the girl at the table and giggled as she flinched under it and turned around. "Water?" she said holding out the bottle which Catlin gratefully took. "You look magnificent out there." "And you played well," Catlin added with a smile. "You could hear me?" "About as well as you could see me," she said as they both took a sip of water, smiling. The teachers clapped their hands and shouted that break was over and that they would work on the next phase of rehersal, getting the secronization just right. |
| Robert stared at the phone. He heard the pregnet woman had mood swings but Amy would take the cake. Okay so he had to prove that he loved her, and he did, which shocked him. He didn't want the baby to end up like a complete ass like him. And he would damn well be in the baby's life. No matter what Amy said. Well I guess I better tell mom, he thought. Robert picked up his keys and drove off to his mother's work. He knew she was going to flip but she also knew he would do the right thing. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Robert couldn't get his mothers reaction out of his mind. He saw the tears in her eyes and the hurt that came with them. "What do you mean that Amy is pregnet1" His mother had cried out. "Mom I'm sorry. We used protection," once, Robert thought, " and Amy was on birth control. We took all the procotions." "Not all of them. Not haveing fucking sex is protection." His mother had turned her back from Robert and fell to the floor crying. He couldn't live to see her like this. "Mom were getting married. Or at least when I can prove to Amy that I... I lovvvveeeeee her." "Make me one promise." His mother wiped her eyes. "Anything. Mom I'm so sorry. I can't tell you how sorry I am. I never meant to hurt you." "I know. But- promise me you'll stay in the babies life? Unlike your father." "I already planned on it mom. Even if Amy won't marry me I will have visitation and go see the baby for the holidays." "That's a little better." Robert helped his mother off the floor and out the door. He had told his boss his mom would need the night off. Robet wished he had a night off but knew that with a baby coming he was going to have to get his crap together. |
| Caitlin It was another rehearsal, and this time there was no band there. This was the one that decided it all. Decided all the parts. Who got the Swan Princess, and who go the background dancing. Caitlin tried to keep her hands from her mouth, where her nails seemed to be somehow magnetized to her teeth. The most important roles were being named first. "Gabriel," the coach of the ballet, Stephan, was calling from his front row seat in front of the stage, looking down at his clipboard. "You have the prince." Gabriel, one of the male dancers, beamed and got congratulating slaps on the back. He was tall and slender, with a lean build and delicate features; perfect for the part. He was also and excellent dancer, and was only 17 years old. "Sabrina, the Queen Mother." Stephan said. Sabrina, a tall girl with red hair squealed. This was it, just the one part left. Odette, the Swan Princess. Just this part, and then he would name off the other people and their roles in the background. Just this part, and if Caitlin didn't get it... "Now for the role of the Swan Princess," Stephan said, glancing up from his clipboard for the first time. His eyes met Caitlin's for the briefest second, and her breath caught in her throat. She crossed her fingers under her legs so tight that she was sure they would be blue by the end of this. "Caitlin Bennington." Caitlin didn't have a reaction at first. She just stared at him, not realizing her mouth had dropped open in a perfect "o" shape. Her fingers remained crossed under her legs and it was a few seconds later before she heard the squeals of the girls around her and felt the pats on her back. It was then that the grin took over her face, from ear to ear. This wasn't her usualy dazzler she used on the adults, but this was a real smile. |
| Amy held the telephone shakily in her hand. Her parents were back on the road. Maybe on the airplane already. They'd only be able to hear her message. She could avoid them from there. Suddenly it rang and she dropped it on the floor. Her younger brother came and picked up the phone off the carpet. "Toban Tollan," he answered in a suave voice. "Hot stud and coolest guy ever at your service." His face fell with disappointment and he handed the phone to Amy. "Hello?" Amy said. "Hey, I'm coming home from school right now. I just wanted to tell you that I'm picking up some fast food,"came Leslie's voice. Ames, you had all weekend to tell your parents." "They're not ready to know. I scheduled a doctor's appointment with Lily's check up tommorow. Once I've talked to the doctor I'll tell them. I just want to hear it from a doctor first," she said. "Aren't you sure yet?" Leslie asked. "I've been throwing up like clockwork every night after dinner and just missed my second period. I'm sure." Amy relaxed and laid her hand on her stomach. And with all that throwing up there's no other reason I'm starting to gain weight. "If you don't tell them, I will," Leslie threatened. "You need to take care of this early. How am I going to look if their doing their usual international tours and come home to figure out Lily isn't the only baby around anymore! Besides we'll need to get more money wired for whatever you choose to do." "I-I can't! Mom's going to think I'm a...She'll kill it! Oh my gosh, she'll kill it! She'll want me to get an abortion! I can't do that!" Amy said panicking. Suddenly she saw Toby watching her in the doorway of the living room. His expressionless face made it obvious he'd been listening the whole time. "Toby knows," she whispered. "Great...Just call them please," Leslie said. Amy nodded. "Yeah. No problem," she said. Then immediately hung up. "Toby." "Amy, are you okay?" he asked more sensitively than he usually spoke. His older sister stood up and hugged him. "Toby, I think I might need you help," she said. "If Leslie asks. Tell her I told mom and dad. This is for the protection of my baby." "You can't possibly keep it," Toby said. "Please little bro. I'm counting on you to try and save my child. It's a life and I can't let it die. Please help me keep mom and dad from finding out. Maybe if they find out later than they won't have the heart to get an abortion. Will you do that for me." Toby felt an odd sense of protectiveness as they hugged a little tighter. "Yeah. For you. And my nephew or niece," he said gently. Amy felt an overwhelming sensation to cry for joy, but she choked back tears. Toby stepped back and smiled. "Geez, you're an emotional wreck," he laughed. Amy smiled. "You're telling me. Love ya, bro. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to dinner with the father so we can try and work out our future. Be good," Amy said grabbing her purse and walking out the door. |
| As soon as Janet and Gloria entered the hallway, they stopped dead. Near one of the doors that led into the room where they took their lessons was a gaggle of students all trying to peer at a single sheet of papper tacked to the message board. A 'thunk' on the floor announced their arrival to no one in particular as her flute and case landed. She looked at some of the other students there as some left with stoic faces, other with beams and some with frowns and glances either at each other, other students or their instruments. Once they were seen by some of the other students, Janet started getting polite 'congratulations' for what ever was on the list. Eventually she got her feet moving again- at least enough to get her through the people and over to the paper posted on the wall. "What is it?" Gloria, who was just a bit too short to read the paper asked. "Apparently not every one is playing next month at the play of 'The Swan Princess'," Janet replied seeing the list of names with positions. "It's a list of people who will be playing and where they will be seated." "Am I on the list?" Gloria asked curiously. "It seems to be mostly upperclassmen," Janet said scanning the list and not seeingeither of their names on there. A lump started to rise in her throat...if she wasn't on the list...Father would... "Yes, you're on here," Janet said suddenly seeing her younger sister's name on the list, "All the viola players are. I guess you have a small section." "That's great!" Gloria said seeing the worried look on her sister's face. Janet's lump only went away when she breathed a sigh of relief. "They have me as first on the list for violin secion. Looks like we might even be able to sit next to each other." "I hope so," Gloria said, now fidgiting. "I'm getting nervous already." "Why?" Janet asked looking down at her sister. Her faced brightened when she saw her hands twist. "Oh, don't worry, I was seriously nervous at my first recital too. You'll do fine. If you get too nervous just close your eyes." Gloria giggled at that and ran over to retrive their instruments. When she returned she looked at the small 'o' on Janet's face. Standing on the intrument cases and toes she read what had her sister in such a stark expression. "Yeah! Mother and Father will be so proud!" Gloria said with a beaming smile. "Solos! and group preformances!" "Yes," Janet said finding her voice, "We get to cover the intermission," Janet said pointing to their names. "I don't know how mother did it, but I'm sure this is her doing." "What do you mean?" Gloria asked looking at her sister's not-so-happy face. "I thought that you would be happy." Janet shooed her sister off the cases and hurried to class so that they could prep and warm their instruments. "Intermission is susspose to be a break for the dancers AND us, and so that the audience can go to the bathroom," Janet said, putting her flute peices together with a bit more force than nessassary. "Now we'll have even LESS time for that. Not to mention my fingers will probably be bleeding by the end of the night." "Oh." Gloria said sounding sobered. "Sorry." Janet gave a sympathy smile to her little sister and tried to bring her happiness back up a notch. "But hey," she said, bumping Gloria's shoulder playfully, "At least I get to play my favorite instrument with my favorite sister," she said with the best smile she could muster. Gloria brighted at that as their music teacher and conductor entered. "I wonder how Catlin faired..." |
| Robert sat in his car and twiddeled his thumbs in his car. He had called after talking to his mother. Him and Amy needed to talk to see where they were going to live, how they were going to live and what the furture held out for them. Amy got in the car and stared out the window. Tears were in her eyes and she let out a small sniffle. "Amy, how are you feeling?" Robert asked innocently. "Like crap." Robert only nodded and started the car. They drove to the local Route 66 resturant. He thought it would best to go to a sit-in resturant and talk then the McDonalds. "I want you to finish high school and go to college," Robert said as they sat at the booth and started to look at the menu. Amy was shocked. He wanted her to finish school and have a career? What about him? What would he do? "What about you? Your already in college, wouldn't it just be easier to have you finish college?" Amy asked. She was happy that he wanted her to still have a career but she could watch the man she loves throw away his own life. "I'll finish up this year and then drop out. I can start working full time at Barnes&Nobel and get a part time job at a fast food joint." Robert could see his dreams of being a doctor flying away. All that mattered right now was Amy and the baby. "No, finish college you only have two more years and then you graduates. You start your rotations next year, if the hospital likes your work ethnic they could hire you. Emergency Room medicine is important. And when the baby comes you can deliver it yourself and save us a couple thousand dollars."Amy smiled, she had to lighten up the mood. "But what about you? Your dreams of being a teacher? Those are important to." Robert looked at the woman that sat across the table. She was no longer a girl or an adolesent. She was pregnet, they were going to have a baby, they had to grow up and make the most out of their lifes. "I can get a loan like you did for college. I'm sure we quialfy for welfare so things shouldn't be as tight. We can both have a career. I don't want this baby to ruin your life." "Okay, tomorrow, lets go get the forms for welfare and see if we qualify. I'll start looking at apartments that I can afford. But my mmother said that if we need to stay at the house for a couple years she'll be happy to let us stay. She thinks the idea of her grandchild living in the same house will be really cool. I can garentee that the child will never be more then an arms length from anything that he/she wants." Amy wasn't sure she was thrilled with the idea of living with Roberts mom, but she wanted to go to college they would have to. She also relized that she had to get a job. "Okay. SO how did you mother take the news?" "She fainted, but then after the inital shock made me promise not to ditch you and the child the way my father did with us. I want you to know Amy that I am with you all the way. I love you and I plan on staying in both your lives." Tears were in Amy's eyes. She couldn't beleive what she was hearing. He said he loved her and didn't have to pause to choke on the "L" word. |
| Caitlin Monday was much to far away for Caitlin to wait for. She flew through her weekend recitals, dancing her routines perfectly and closing the books on her homework and assignments. She couldn't wait to tell Janet about getting the part. She entered the school after her morning recital and got to first period just in time. She hadn't seen Janet before the first class, but she wouldn't have had time to speak to her anyway. It would have to wait for the next break. Caitlin payed hardly any attention during the class, and kept an eye out for Janet on her way to her locker. Turns out, however, that Janet was the one who found Caitlin. "Hi, Caitlin." Janet smiled at Caitlin, standing beside her locker. "Janet! Hi! Guess what?" Caitlin beamed. "What?" "I got it! I got the Swan Princess!" "Really? Congratulations!" Janet grinned. "You're mom must be really proud of you!" The smile faded slightly from Caitlin's face. Her mother had actually smiled at her over the weekend, something she hadn't gotten from her in a long time. But she had also been working Caitlin harder then ever lately, though Caitlin hadn't really noticed it till now. "Yea...yea, I guess she is. This is what she's always wanted. She wanted to be a dancer when she was young, but her parents didn't have the money." Caitlin said. She couldn't believe herself. She had never told anyone this much about her or her family, and now here she was saying it as freely as if she were explaining that two plus two was four. "Gloria and I made it into the band." Janet said. "Oh? I didn't realize there were going to be people cut from it." "Yea. Well, we both made it in highest position. We're playing during intermission too." Caitlin noticed that Janet's voice and eyes didn't hold too much excitement while she said this. "Good or bad?" Caitlin asked. Janet shrugged. "I just won't really get a time to rest." Janet said. Caitlin nodded in undestandment. "Well, I'm sure you'll play just great." Caitlin smiled. "Yea, thanks. I bet you're going to be wonderful. I really loved watching you dance up there." "Oh, I hardly danced at all up there. They were just putting us through some basic exercises and routines." The bell rang through the halls and the crowd started to disperse. "Well, I had better get going." Caitlin said. "I'll talk to you later maybe?" Janet asked. "Definately." Caitlin smiled at Janet and they went their seperate ways. |
| "Robert!" Amy yelled as she walked onto the quad where she and Robert had always hung out before things got complicated. "Robert!" With a brown folder under her arm she ran around the lunch area desperately. She had recieved important news from the doctor and Robert had to know now. He had to help her. "Where could he be?" she asked herself as she ran blindly. People were watching her with confused looks as she zipped passed them. But this was important news. "Ro-" Before she could finish her sentance she slammed into someone at full speed sending her and the other girl falling to the ground. Papers flew up in the air and then gliding down to the floor. "Oh, I'm so sorry...Janet. Right?" The other extrememly pale girl pushed herself to an sitting position with the heels of her hands. "Yeah. And it's, uh...It's alright. Looks like you're in a rush." "Yeah, it's kind of important," Amy said beginning to pick up the papers. "I really need to find my boyfriend though." Janet crawled beside her and started to pick up the sheets of paper. "Here let me help," Janet said. She picked up a paper when some of the words on it caught her eye. Amy snatched it from her hands as she grinned politely. "No thanks. It was me who ran into you. I can handle this on my own," she said laughing nervously. |
| "Yeah..uh..no problem.." Janet replied as they stood and Amy left quickly. Janet gave a half hearted wave, "Um, bye then." Turning she headed towards the quietest spot in the lunch area where she normally rested between classes only to find it already occupied by one of the new girls in school. She headed over anyway and gave a quiet smile, taking her seat, "You don't mind if I sit here a play a bit do you?" The quiet girl shook her head and smiled, a clear indication for Janet to do as she liked. Janet brought out her violin and warmed it up, playing a few scales before settling on one and beggining a peice that was a classical twist on a very modern peice of rock music. After school as Janet was walking down the steps, she was stopped by one of the guys, as he stood infront of her, blocking her path. "Yes?" She asked, looking past him to where a car pulled up and her sister was climbing out. "Your janet right?" the kid asked, running his fingers through his hair. Janet gave a nod and continued around him down the stairs; the boy followed, stuffing his hands into his pockets. "Hey, I was wondering, like you play really awsome and stuff, if you'd like to go with me and some of my friends to like the movies or a concert sometime or something?" he asked, jumbling his words together. As they stood by the car, Gloria caught the last part of what the boy said and ducked inside quickly. Janet gave a smile and then a frown. "I..." Janet started. Her mother stepped out of the driver's side of the car and looked at her. "Janet, we have places to go, please get in the car." "Yes mother," Janet said getting in. With the window down she told the boy as the car drove off, "I'm sorry, you'd have to ask my parents." Janet rolled up the window to just a crack as the car turned the corner, and let her mind drift to how well her life seemed to be going. Things were going well indeed. She and Gloria have been on their best behavior and somehow had managed to stay on the good graces of their parents for nearly a week now- when they found out about their solos- and both were eager to keep it that way. Last night, Gloria didn't even have to help Janet into her nightgown, the old bruises gone and the newer ones fading fast. She noticed that leaning back in the seat didn't seem as painful as before either. It was a nice feeling. Gloria whispered something in the lowest tones possible, covered well by the sonata playing on the radio. janet gave a nod and thought on how she could word it to stay in their parent's good graces. The idea and wording came to her as they pulled up the driveway. "Mother," Janet said getting out of the car and helping her sister, "The recital will be a most opportune time to network with like-minded individuals," Janet said thinking carefully on each word, "I wonder if it would be a good thing for us to do to help in putting together a small dinner gathering for the band members and the dancers- and their parents of course- for after the recital where they might meet with some of the audience?" "Why would they want a thing like that?" her mother snapped, driving fear into Janet of saying the wrong thing. Holding it back, she raised a hand leisurly as her mother had taught in order to make her point. "There may be potential scouts and well paying members in the audience that might want to...sponsor certain canidates for say...Julliard or the Royal Academy.." Janet said, trying to sound bored and intriqued at the same time. "We could have a small gathering before the show of just the preformers and parents, and one after the show for a more 'formal' setting." "Why, that sounds like a marvolous idea, dear," a male voice said from behind Janet's mother. "That intellect has done you some good after all. I'm sure that I can put in a few phone calls," He said, giving his wife a loving squeeze, yet looking at his two daughters as the house pets that had done well in their training. It was the same look that their mother now gave. A calculated love. "Thank you Father," Janet said with a slight bow. "Now you two run along and do your homework. Esta will have dinner ready for us soon." "Yes Father," the two said heading inside. Gloria looked at her sister in wonder. "How did you?" "Lots and lots of luck," Janet breathed, realizing that she was probably holding her breath for half the conversation outside. "But at least with this, there's no way we can miss handing out with Catlin a bit before and after the show. Especially with the people that will be there, Father will pass on his idea to our teacher who will of course pass it to the dance teacher and...volia, buisness party." "It will be simple enough to get us kids off to the side to have some real fun then," Gloria said, excitment showing through. Janet ushered her into her room. "And.." "No," Janet warned, knowing what Gloria was suggesting. "No one must know. I've seen what happens. If you think this is bad...anyway, let's keep this whole thing between us. We'll have it as a surprise for Catlin if it actually goes off without a hitch." "What if she can't come?" Gloria asked sitting down at her small desk. "How can she not? From the way her mother seems at the rehersals, her mother would practially force Catlin to be there to show off as a prize throughbread." "Sound like us." Gloria said looking at the cabnet with trophies pictures and ribbons. Janet followed her gaze and nodded. |
| Robert had been in the libary when he heard Amy calling his name. Her screams could be heard through out the libary. Gatherig his stuff he ran out of the libary and after the woman carring his child. He found her exhausted and sitting on the grond holding a manilla folder. "Amy, Amy whats wrong." Amy looked at Robert and jumped into his arms. "Look!" Taking a small peice of paper out of the folder she handed it to him. Robert couldn't beleive what he saw. It was a black and white ultra sound. "Look at the dots." "Dots? As in plural?" Robert looked at Amy for an answer. |
| Natasha was walking towards her first class that day. She had actualy enjoyed herself for most of the party. She was a little shook up while dancing and she didn't have a drop to drink all night. Nick had wanted to get closer to Natasha but he had kept a safe distance from her that night. "Maybe a party or two isn't so bad. You can still have fun." She thought to her self. "Maybe you should talk to someone about what happend. Someone so when you do go out you have someone to watch your back and make sure you don't get hurt. You could Tell Nick." Thought to herself. "No he's too close to Micheal." She said aloud. "That has to be the first time you have actually connected the Monster to him." She thought to herself some more. A hand on her back interupted her thoughts. He whispered in her ear she hadn't heard. She shaking visibly. Natasha bit back a scream and held her head high. She was standing out side her first class. She really just wished goat would walk by. |
| Caitlin Caitlin was hurrying to class when she saw the girl outside her classroom, a boy whispering in her ear. She had a terrified look in her eyes and an expression that cleary said she would rather be anywhere but beside this guy. "Hey!" Caitlin called out to her. However, the girl didn't know Caitlin was talking to her. "HEY!" she repeated herself, and this time she turned around. Caitlin hurried up to her. She couldn't remember her name, and wasn't going to risk saying the wrong one. "Hey, listen, I had this question to ask you..." Caitlin glanced at the boy. She had seen him around the school before, but couldn't recall his name either. He smirked down at her and sauntered off. "Who are you?" the girl asked Caitlin. Caitlin introduced herself. "I'm Natasha. Thanks for that." Caitlin shrugged and the bell rang. "Oh! I'm going to be late for class." Caitlin said and hurried off in the direction of her next class, her heart beating fast and her face burning. What had she been thinking? She never interfered with other people. She had never done that before, what had come over her? Caitlin knew. It was friends. The fact that she was getting a friend was screwing everything up, just like her mother said. Her mother had been right. Caitlin couldn't let this happen. If she interracted with more people at school, that meant there was more chances of her developing friends. And if there were more chances of her developing friends, that meant there was more chances of her secret slipping. And she could not, absolutely could not let that happen. She would have to watch herself from now on. |
| "Dots?" Robert said again. Amy held up her hands to calm him down. How did he always seem to read her mind. "Robbie," she said. "Relaaaax." Robert's brow raised and his eyes were so focused the left one started to twitch. "Amy, please don't tell me that you're..." He couldn't even finish his own sentance. "The doctor said he thinks there's two placenta, which means we could be having ferternal twins. But this doesn't change anything," Amy said. Robert was still frozen in his shocked position. "Robert. Robert?" "This," Robert started. "Changes...Everything." Amy wrapped her arm around his waist and forced him to look down at her. "Listen to me. Everything happens for a reason. There is nothing to be afraid of. We'll get through this," Amy said calmingly. "Now just take a deep breath. Have you told anyone yet?" "Other than my mom? No," Robert said. Amy and Robert stared at each other. After a moment Amy took her arms off of him. "I think we shouldn't tell anyone. I'm going to see if I can transfer to a different school. Like one of those ones for pregnant teenagers. I don't want to hear any of the things people will have to say about me when I start to show." Amy gave a weak smile to comfort in. Suddenly the two of them gave each other a hug they both needed desperately. "You know, come to think of it my mom's going to love this grandma thing," Robert laughed. Amy smiled. "Well she better because the little ones are coming whether we're ready or not," she said. Robert and Amy walked to their next class side by side. Together they seemed like a couple with happy faces in a euphoric moment, but inwardly they were both very confused and nervous parents. |
| Janet made her way as carefully through the halls as the crowd permitted. Hearing Catlin's voice, she ducked into a recess of the wall between two sets of lockers, hiding just as she caught sight of her friend. Seeing that Catlin wasn't calling for her she sighed a breath of relief. Groaning inwardly, she supposed that she should be happy to see her friend, but at the moment, she needed to hide; she needed to keep her secret. That unfortunaly was more important than friendship. Taking a deep breath to keep from crying, she prepared to weave her way down just two more door to her next class. Then she saw the reason for all her pain. No, she chided herself. It's not his fault. He doesn't know. He cornered her, trapping her in the recess, though not on purpose. "Hi, I cally your house yesterday, well tried to anyway. I think I must have called the wrong number," he said sheepishly. Janet looked at him with a blank stare. She hadn't given anyone but Caitln her number. "I looked it up on the phone book." he said answering her unasked question. "SInce you said that I'd have to ask your parents, I thought that I'd do that. But the guy who answered had never heard of you so I hung up. Sorry." He looked so sincere in his apology, Janet didn't know what to say. All she could do was give the breifest of nods and look off to where her friend had just rescued a girl from another boy that seemed to have been harrasing her. Janet gave a small smile. Thinking that she was smiling at him, he smiled back. "So can I get your number?" "My..number?" Janet stumbled. She remembered hearing his voice over the phone reciver as her father picked up the phone. She remembered the look on his face when he looked at her as she did her homework. She remembered the sound of one of her instruments smashing against the wall...the feel of her flute as he used it to beat her for the phone call... at at that moment, the welts that the instrument left behind on her now tender back and legs. "N-n-n-no, um, no number," she said looking at his so innocent smile. What was she thinking? she couldn't get close to anyone. They would find out. They'd take her away, and Gloria..she had to protect her little sister. She saw Caitlin looking at her hands as she walked away from the girl. Friends...Caitlin had a secret. She had a secret. Did that help make them friends? She looked at the boy infront of her. He didn't seem to have any secrets. "I-I-I have a concert that night," Janet finally stammered. She held up a ticket from her pocket. It was the one she was going to give Caitlin before she found out that she was a dancer. He took a step back, and the bell rang. Shoving the ticket at the boy, she squeezed past him into the class room taking a deep breath as she made her way towards the back of class to hide. Too Close...she was getting too close... |
| Twins, that was all Robert could think. He was going to be having TWO kids. He understood why Amy had to change schools and he was proud of her for making that decision. That meant that her hormones wern't so out of whack. Robert was aware that he had to get another job because there was no way he could support his mother, himself, Amy and there unborn children. Robert rang up the woman's total. She had bought about thirty books all of different titles, but the same author. She must be a new fan, he thought as she walked out of Barnes&Nobels with four large bags. "Wow she dropped serious change," his co-worker Carl said as he was helping his customer. "She'll be paying off her credit card for the next twenty years. Hey do you know if Marge is looking for anyone full time. I need the extra cash." "Thats a lot of extra cash." Carl looked at Robert. He knew his friend was hiding something big and it had to do with him looking for a full time job. "Yeah, well some unexpected expenses came up. I need to work a full time job and keep this job to pay for it." "Whats wrong man?" Carl asked. "I can't tell you." Robert said as he called the next customer to the counter. |
| Natasha went in to class her whole body shaking she kept looking over at Caitlin. "That was such a nice thing for her to do. What had she heard? Wait I didn't hear anything so she can't have heard anything...." "....Natasha....Ms. Nieto. Answer the question please." The teacher said. Natasha looked up and with a smug smile on her face that lord knows where she managed to conjure that one from she stated with a matter of concern. "Im sorry Mrs. Figorouha but I am having a terrible time grasping this task and so if I may I was planing on coming in at lunch to have you explain this to me more throughly." "well allright Ms.... Natasha but if you would please pay attention as much as possible." She seemed extremly flaber gasted. Natasha had no intention of coming in for lunch. The rest of class went on with out a hitch. When finally the bell rang. Natasha jumped up and caught Caitlin in the hall. "Hey umm... Caitlin you mind me having lunch with you?" Natasha asked hopefully. "I thought you were having lunch with Mrs.Figorougha." Caitlin replied "No way. You kidding me I was just thinking about Micheal and the episode here in the hall." Natasha said. "There she had done it again...She couldn't tell a complete stranger but maybe after a few lunches." Natasha thought to herself. |
| Caitlin Caitlin was completely shocked, not to mention scared out of her wits, at Natasha's proposal. Lunch? With her? She had already screwed up enough to make one friend, she wasn't about to slip again and make another friend. "I'm sorry, I...I have to do some homework. I'm swamped." Caitlin said in her most sincere voice, her best apologetic smile lighting up her face. Natasha looked a bit disappointed. "Oh, well, I was hoping to talk to you about what happened," she said. Caitlin shook her head. "No, I'm sorry. I have too much homework, and I don't have any time after school to do it." "Well, how about tomorrow then?" Caitlin blinked in surprise and her smile faultered for the slightest moment. She caught it and placed it back on it, blinking politely at Natasha. "Tomorrow? Sorry, that's no good either. I have to go see Mr. Weatherby for Math." Caitlin lied. She was starting to get nervous, and was absolutely sure Natasha could hear her heart pounding in her chest. Her palms were starting to sweat and she re-adjusted her books in her arms, making sure the inside of her arms were safely hidden. "Oh...well, maybe some other time." Natasha smiled at Caitlin and Caitlin hurried away, breathing deeply. That had been closer then close. As Caitlin bustled down the hallway, she noticed someone else hurrying. She recognize the back of Janet's head. But Janet was walking oddly. It was like every move hurt her, and it seemed like she was trying to get away from Caitlin as fast as she could. Concerned, Caitlin called out Janet's name and then mentally kicked herself. What was she doing? She was supposed to be stopping herself from this! But too late now; Janet turned around. "Are you okay?" Caitlin asked, catching up with her. "What? Oh, yes, I'm fine." Janet said breathily. Caitlin gently touched her shoulder and Janet winced, jerking away from her touch. Caitlin withdrew her hand like she had been burned. What was she doing touching people? That would only get her into more trouble! "Are you sure?" Caitlin asked quizzicaly. Janet had seemed to be hurt by that slight touch, but she nodded her head vigorously. "Yes, yes, I'm fine, it's nothing to worry about. I'm just a little sore, I fell down a flight of stairs the other day." Janet laughed airily. "You know, I can be so clumsy sometimes." Caitlin plastered another fake smile on her face. But Janet's words tugged at the back of her mind, sounding oddly familiar. "Okay, well, if you're sure." Caitlin said. "Yep." Janet smiled at her. "Well, I'll see you around. I have a lot of work to catch up on," and she hurried away. Janet's previous words still tugged at Caitlin as she walked to her locker. She was worried, and confused. And nevermind scared. That sounds like my excuses... Caitlin realized, startled. |
| Amy came home early from school and tossed her backpack aside. Toby was quick to meet her as he rushed down the stairs. "Amy!" Her heart leapt instantly. "Toby, what's wrong?" she asked concerned. He skid to a stop right in front of her and grabbed her shoulders. "Mom and Dad are coming home! Leslie said something to them that must have let it slip!" he cried hysterically. Amy's eyes widened. "What?!" Amy looked around the room desperately as if looking for some way out. She pulled on the hem of her skirt nervously. Suddenly Leslie came in the door as well. "You told me you got this whole thing sorted out with your parents," was the first thing to exdplode out of her mouth. She had Lily in hand who was babbling casually. Amy licked her lips and was surprised to find herself tasting salty tears. "They're going to kill..." Maybe now wasn't a great time to tell her what she was having. "It. They're going to make me get an abortion. You know them. They're all about the family enterprise. Our image is a big thing to them and they'll never let me carry a baby. I am not letting them do that!" Leslie sighed and gave her a harsh look. "I know, Amy," she said becoming more understanding. "But I'm not the one you're going to have to convince." "How soon will they arrive?" Amy asked quietly as she crossed her arms across her stomach. "Soon enough. They had the jet pulled around in mid air and called for a landing," Leslie said. Amy nodded to herself. If her parents were so intent on being out of their children's lives, why couldn't they just stay that way? "I'm going to go hide in my room," she said marching up the stairs. After long, long moments of sitting on the balcony overlooking the city and listening to the sound of cars Amy still sat curled up on a cushioned lawn chair wrapping a teddy bear in a hug. It was childish and she knew it, but she desperately needed comforting. And she wasn't going to call Robert. She would show him that she was stronger than that. The sound of two car doors slamming shut made her jump. "Oh God," she mumbled setting the teddy bear aside. "Amy!" she heard her father screech. Daddy dearest with Mother coming to have a stern talking to with their daughter, Amy thought to herself. Within seconds her bedroom door opened. "Amy!" her father said again. He was a large man with black, slicked back hair. His face was reddened with rage. Suddenly her mother slipped from behind him and curled her petite delicate fingers on her husband's bicep. "Dear, I believe this is girl talk," she said. Amy's father glared at her. The same way he'd glare at a burglar or a hooker. She was a criminal in her father's eyes. That look alone, she felt, may have been punishment enough. "I'm not leaving," he said. The mother sat down beside Amy and reached for her hand. Amy flinched like a scared, wild animal. Sweat nearly dripped from every pore from her body. "M-Mom," Amy said. "Darling, we all make mistakes," the mother said. Amy froze out of shock. This was not the reaction she was expecting. "I became pregnant when I was not much older than you." "You were eighteen," her father correct. "You were of age and you and I were engaged." The mother turned around to toss a glare at him. Amy's father took a deep breath and turned the other way to look over the balcony. "But didn't you me when you were twenty six?" Amy said quizically. Her mother nodded. "I terminated the pregnancy. It happened again just after we were married and we had that terminated too," she said. Amy's eyes widened. "Why?" she whispered horrified. Her mother squeezed her hand. "We already had the momentum of the enterprise up and running. We weren't about to throw it all away by burdening ourselves with the responsibility of children as well," the woman laughed light heartedly. Amy stared at her in total disgust. "Burden?" she gasped. "Is that what we are to you? A burden?" The smile disappeared quickly from Amy's mother quickly. "No, sweety," she said. An incoherent mutter came from her father in the distance. The woman slowly turned her head toward her husband. "Roger!" "I'm sorry!" said the father insincerely as he reached into his pocket for a cigar. Amy watched him as he lit the putrid thing and wrapped her arms around her stomach tighter. "The point is, dear. We're here for you and we'll stay with you until your operation," said Amy's mother. Amy let out a whimpering protest. "What?" said her father in a booming voice. "I want to have this baby," Amy said. Her mother forced a smile. "Honey, there is no way you can be a parent..." Suddenly Amy narrowed her eyes and clenched her fists. "I can be a better parent than you ever were," she hissed through her teeth. The husband and wife stared at her in shock. Amy's father put out the cigar on the railing and squished the thing into the ground and walked towards her. His footsteps sounded like thunder. "We've provided for you, you have an immeasureble ammount of money, we can bribe any school to take you in, and we are going to pay for this operation. The least you can do is help us maintain our image. Now get in the limo, Amy!" His each word brought his face an inch closer to her. Amy backed up as far as she could against the back of the lawnchair. She shook with every breath, making her hold her breath so as not to exhale on her father's face. "N-No," Amy said in a quiet voice. He narrowed his eyes and her and forcefully grabbed her chin bringing her face up. "You wanna be a whore?" he said in a sinister tone. "You want everyone to look at our family and see what kind of SLUT WE CAN RAISE!" A tear fell and Amy started to sob a little. "Daddy, I'm sorry..." "Roger, that's enough," her mother said from behind him. "There's more than one way to get an abortion," her father said in a low voice. His fist curled at his side. "Roger! I said that's enough!" Amy's mother grabbed her husband's shoulder and whipped him around. Amy took the oppurtunity and jumped up from her seat and raced through the house. "Amy, where are you going?" Toby asked as she ran by him. She couldn't answer him as she ran blindly to the front door and got into her car where she sped away leaving tire marks on the asphalt. |
| It was late in the afternoon, though early for Janet as her music lessons had ended early. Since her parents were away for the evening and wouldn't be back until the next morning...somthing about annivsaries...she was thankful for the time to get away and out of the house, of lessons, of...everything. And at the moment, that included Gloria. Her little sister was still inside going over another rehersal, so while Janet had free time, she decided to spend it at the park across the street. The sun was shining, the air was warm and comforting, soothing her skin and making it so that even her body didn't hurt as much as it had earlier. She pulled up her sleeve for just a moment to examine the dark bruises that were starting to yellow around the edges- a good sign thatthey were healing fast and well. Even with the new ones on top of the old ones, she felt that they were comming along nicely. She heard a noise and quickly pushed down the sleeve to her arm and looked around. On a nearby bench, there was someone she reconized, but hardly expected to see in a park sitting on a bench, sniffling. Or crying. Walking quietly up to the girl, Janet sat on top of the bench next to her, sitting on the back, with her feet on the seat. The girl looked up startled. "I know you," Janet started slowly, "Your...Amy right?" Janet said, reconizing her from school. She was always to bright and...cheerful, it seemed out of sorts with the way she was now. Amy, in a mild state of shock, just numbly nodded. "I'm Janet." Janet stopped as she moved. Pain flared up from her back and side, a result from the beating. She placed her instrument on the bench and grimached, hoping that it looked more like a smile than a wince. She moved to get up and get away, before some one found out her secret. Before Amy did. Her parents were high in profile, and well, it wouldn't do if THEY found out. "I'm sorry, you look like you want to be left alone. I'll go." She said, jumping to the first thing she felt like she could say without sounding rude. She had one friend...and taht was risky enough to have. It couldn't..she couldn't...no..one friend was it. "No, please," Amy said in a near whisper. If Janet hadn't been used to Gloria talking in such low tones, she probably would have missed it all together. "You're the girl who plays on the school steps, right?" Janet nodded. "My...I'm...I'm waiting for my boyfriend. Stay with me until then?" Not knowing quite what to say, since she had to wait for her sister, and she couldn't go back into the school, she nodded. Taking out her instrument, she rewarmed the strings, resting a foot on the bench to support her elbow as she started, drawing the bow along the viloin slowly, in a somber tone. To go any faster would have caused her too much pain, and from the look on Amy's face, she didn't seem to want to talk anyway. But that was perhaps just Janet not wanting to talk herself. |
| Robert had heard the music first, slow and senuous. It screamed of heartache and pain. The music seemed to fit perfectly with his mood. Though he was more angry then sad. How could Amy's parents demand they have an abortion. Don't they know that that is considered murder to most people! And her father having the fucking nerve to demand that she get one! Robert walked up to the bench where Amy and the musician were sitting. Amy saw him first and jumped off the bench and ran to him. She leaped into his arms and started babbeling. "They...want...me...to..." Amy said hysterically. "Shh, shh, it's okay." Robert took Amy's face in his hands making her look at him. "It'll be okay. You can stay at my house. OKay?" Amy nodded in agreement. If she went home who knew what her father would do. Robert turned to the girl on the bench. "Thank you for keeping her company. Do you want us to stay with you till your parents pick you up?" The girl shook her head. "No my little sister should be along shortly then we'll walk home. Thank you anyways. It was noce talking to you Amy." "It was nice meeting you Janet." Amy said as she and Robert turned and walked towards her car. "So are you okay?" Stupid question, he thought to himself. "The fact that my father felt the need to try to punch me in the stomach hard enough to make me miss-carrie is really fucked up." Amy said, hate dripping from her words. Robert stopped walking. He couldn't beleive what he had just heard. Her own father felt the need to try to punch his own daughter just to kill two innocent children? Robert quickened his pace and brought Amy closer to him. "The stupid bastard. The stupid fing bastard. Who does he think he is! God? No!" Robert's face was getting really red. As the couple got in the car, Robert revved the engine. "Were going to talk to your parents." |
| Tasha couldn't help thinking it must have been something she said. She really didn't mean to embarass the girl she had done her a kindness and she wanted to get to know her better. Nick came up behind her. "DAMN!!!! That is one fine ass you got there girl and we all know you know how to shake it." "Thanks Nick your a darling. Hey... Can I talk to you?" "Of course you can Sugar. Whats the problem? What do we need to talk about? " Nick asked seeming allmost concerned. "Who's Ass do I need to kick" His voice was now filled with Sarcasim "Well you see theres this guy and he's been kinda bothering me and I was wondering if you could give me a hand and just you know keep an eye out. Maybe hang out a little more often go see a movie catch dinner sometime. I just need a guy close for a short while." I said with All sincerity "Hey Tash You aint got no problem here" Nick said he kissed her on the cheek. "I would be your boyfriend any day. Don't you normally have Micheal do shit like that with... "Micheal can't do it He's to close to that other girl. Thank you sweety I apreciate it. I Have allways liked you, but you never ask me out..." Natasha said sounding like she was thinking out loud. "Well Hell screw this I need a guy close for a while WE are having a party at my place tonight." Nick said Excited "sounds great.Nick." Tasha kissed him lightly on the cheek. Natasha hoped having Nick closer would work. As long as Micheal didn't get a hair up his ass and try to Scare Nick off all should be fine. Natasha didn't see Caitlin anywhere at lunch. Natasha wanted to invite her. Natasha caught her coming out of a class just as Natasha was leaving the class room next door "Hey. Caitlin Here "she handed Caitlin a Piece of paper" If your not doing anything tonight I would like to see you. If you need a place to crash or a ride let me know." Caitlin had this look of shock on her face. Natasha didn't notice she was on her way to her next class. The Note just had Natasha's Phone number and address on it The party information directions to Nick's house and his phone number. She figgured if Caitlin was even aloud to do anything she probly allready had plans. She Would defently give her the option to come. Make sure she knew that when Nick said "Hey come to the Party Everyone's invited" Included her. She wanted to find Someone she could trust and Nick was way to open as a drunk and to close to the monster himself. |
| Caitlin Caitlin's had shook as she held the invitation in her hand. What was she doing wrong to have this keep happening to her? Why was she suddenly making all these friends? She was going to be in deep trouble, soon, if she didn't stop doing this. But...then again, it would be fun to get out of the house for something other then school or rehearsals. And...maybe it wouldn't be that bad. She could...she could tell her mom she was going to the library, and maybe just show up for an hour or two. No big deal, right? It might even be fun. Maybe...maybe... Caitlin's head buzzed with mixed up, confused thoughts as she headed to her next class. Fortunately, once she reached her class she was able to absorb herself in her studies like she used to do. By the time last period was finished, Caitlin found that her mind seemed to have made a decision with out. She was going to the party that weekend. |
| "Robert, please. Don't go in there. My dad's pissed off enough as it is. He doesn't need to see the guy that knocked me up," Amy said as they pulled in front of the house. "No one threatens my children or you," Robert said putting on the emergency brake. Amy didn't move. "Come on. Let's go." "No. I'm not going in there and neither should you," Amy said stubbornly. Robert opened the door and started heading towards the front door. Finally she rolled her eyes and opened the door, not wanting Robert to face her parents alone. Robert raised his hand and started to knock on the door when it opened on it's to reveal that Amy's parents were also using the door. "Who's this?" Amy's dad asked Amy immediately. "This is Robert," she said. "Anyway, there's something I want to say to you and mom." Robert looked back at Amy confused. Amy's father opened the door letting her and Robert in. Robert stepped inside realizing that he'd never been inside her home before. He looked around trying to avoid the father's death stare. Toby came down the stairs with Lily in his arms. "Toby, go back up to your room," Amy's mother said. Amy gave him a reassuring glance and then he went back upstairs. Amy's mom and dad sat in the living room on one couch while Amy and Robert sat across from them. Robert started to say something when Amy put her hand on his knee to stop him. "Mom, Dad. I know a way out of this," Amy said. "I want to be emancipated." Amy's mother's eyebrows went up. "What?" "I want to be emancipated. I want to be my own legal guardian. You can disown me, or do whatever you like. But I won't be around to let the press see me pregnant or a mother. I just want to have this baby," she said. "I can stay at Robert's and neither of you will have nothing to do with me ever again." "No," said Amy's father immediately. Amy turned to face him with her face completely serious. "If you don't I will sue you," she said. Amy's father stared at her for a moment then laughed. "Sue us for not emancipating you?" he laughed. "Sue you for child abuse," Amy corrected. "I'm sure I can get more than one count of negligence in there." "Please, dear. Be reasonable. Your mother and I have the best lawyers money can by. All you could afford is...Well, I don't think you can afford one. You couldn't possibly win," Amy's father said moving over to the bar to start making himself a drink. "No, but it'd kind of ruin the point of giving me an abortion because I'm sure we can somehow get this in the papers for the public to read," she said coolly "Amy!" her mother gasped as the father stared at his daughter. "Emancipate me, please," Amy said. Amy's father walked back over to her mother and handed her a glass of bourbon. There seemed to be a stunned silence in the room. Robert was stunned to see sweet little Amy act so out of character and the parents were stunned that there was a lawsuit against them from their own daughter. Amy's mother sighed and sipped the drink. "Amy..." "If we do this, you are no longer a part of our family," Amy's father said. Amy didn't seem entirely surprised. "You don't expect any money, a place in the will, and your heir to the enterprise is gone. I don't ever want to hear from you or see you ever again. You may take everything you need except for your car. That is rightfully ours. Then you get out for good." Silence had never been so loud. Amy thought about it. She felt her abdomen where there was to beings growing inside. Two children who were in her utmost care and protection. Robert leaned over to say something to her. "Ames, you don't have to do this if you don't want to," he said. "Fine," Amy said to her parents ignoring Robert. She'd wanted this moment to come for a very long time. The sudden sense of bravery or maybe just determination to save her children helped her keep a straight face. This was it. This was her moment and her parent's wake up call. "Send the papers home. Leslie and Toby will know where I'm staying." |
| Janet made her way down the stairs slowly as late in the morning as she dared. Her younger sister was blissfully with her aunt for the weekend, out on an ‘outing’ of sorts. Her parents were in the foyer greeting a couple for lunch, and Janet inwardly cringed when she saw them. They were old friends of her parents, and very high in profile, so she was reminded of every time they visited. Although she had never met them, they had two or three children of their own, and always seemed to be off somewhere. Too young to be seen all the time, yet always there; like prize thoroughbreds at a race. This time she noticed that the mother seemed to have a resemblance to the girl Amy though. "So graceful," the lady said in admiration at Janet’s decent down the stairs. Her parent’s beamed, and her previous thoughts on the guest’s family was rebounded onto herself as she suddenly felt like the horse for show. She only wished that her ‘gracefulness’ was due to actually being graceful rather than having to walk carefully to keep from hurting with all the bruises that were freshly healed and the bone bruises that were barely starting to heal. “Thank you,” her mother said with a simpering smile. “I do my best with her.” "We have her in all the best classes,” her father said with a false pride. “Excels at several instruments and languages.” As Janet came around the banister, he noticed her violin case in hand, “Ah, she’s off to her afternoon violin lessons now.” Janet gave a small curtsy to the guests in way of greeting. “Yes, father.” She said quietly. “So polite!” the lady said as if Janet was nothing more than a dog doing tricks. “How do you do it? Our own…” she faltered, and her husband picked it up as if on a cue. “Our eldest boy is doing well in his studies as well. I see Harvard in his future,” the man said in a way that made Janet think of a bird puffing out it’s chest. “I thought you had a daughter,” Janet’s father said with a hint of inquiry. The man’s face darkened for a moment, and the woman took the smallest intake of breath. “Had…” the father said bluntly, “She’s…gone.” The lady gave a small sob that had a false ring to Janet’s ear, but played her own parents like harps. “Oh, I’m so sorry to hear,” her mother said in sympathy. "Yes, well,” the father said with a forced smile. He paused as if he couldn’t talk about the subject. “Shall we go into the conservatory for some lunch?” Janet’s mother said before the silence could intrude for too long. They gave a nod and she led the way into the next room. “Father,” Janet said before he could leave. Janet had been working up the nerve and the possible wording she could use for her plan while she stood there listening to the adults banter. “Would it be alright if I stayed late and practiced for the upcoming concert? I was hoping that I could spend some time at the library as well for an extra credit paper for English as well this afternoon.” Her father looked at her and gave a nod. “Very well. Do not be home too late. Which library are you going to be at?” “The local University’s sir. The public library closes much too early today.” “Take a taxi home then.” "Yes sir.” Janet gave a bow and made her way out the door and down the stairs to the cab that had been waiting for her for the past few minutes. As she sat in the back and gave the address to the school, she opened her case and looked at the invitation that rested on her violin. It had been slipped into her locker in school, and personally addressed. She gave the briefest of smiles thinking how she had just gotten enough time to do whatever she wanted. Perhaps she could spend an hour in the party, just to soak in the atmosphere before going home for the night. Of course she would have to pick up the taxi from the university campus, incase her father asked the driver, but it would definitely be worth it. |
| Amy sat in Robert's room the following day thinking over what she had done. She had made sure to pack all of her cloths, cancelled all of her credit cards, withdrew all her money from her account and packed all the stuff she could. Her mother had sat in the parlor the whole time making sure not to piss off her husband any more then he was. Robert had been supported. He knew that she didn't want to talk and he respected that. He helped her box up her things and carried them out of the house. Robert had been secretly afraid of Amy's father. But his anger for him trying to harm his children really pissed him off and that showed more clearly then his fear. Once Amy was in the car Robert made sure to leave a peice of advice for him. "I know for a fact that I'll be a better father to my TWINS then you were ever to Amy or any of your children." Roberts smiled when Amy's father's face fell flat with the news of his daughter having twins. Robert walked into his room and saw his fiance in a way sitting on the bed with tears in her eyes. He sat next to her and drew her closer to him. He wrapped his arms around Amy an took her hand into his own. "Ame's I am so proud of you. When I was scared spitless you stood up to the devil and won your battle. I am so proud of you. I don't think I ever loved someone so much as I did the moment you gathered your courage and asked for your amancipation." Amy stayed quite not sure what to say. He had never talked so...poetically. Even if the mistake will cost her in the future. |
| Natasha went home intending to change. She pulled out her favortie parting outfit and quickly through it into a shoe box and put the shoe box in a corner. Her hands were shaking she could never wear that outfit again. She went through her "clubing outfits". Natasha put on a pair of thigh high boots that were leather and black and made her legs look perfect in shape. She found a Red Camisole leotard that was a little more low cut then she felt acceptable to wear to school, but still decent. She then put on a Black leather miniskirt. She grabed her coat and left leaving a note for her father to see when he got home. ----------------------------------------------- Sorry I missed you dad. Don't know when I will be home if for anyreason you can't get a hold of me call Nick's house. Have a good evening. Love Allways and Forever Your Daughter Tasha ----------------------------------------------- She jumped in her car and drove over to Nick's house. She was early just as she had intended. She knocked on the door and Nick answered. "Good to see you." said Nick to Natasha She smiled kissed him and followed him inside. "So I know you have all of my favorite songs. What are we missing?" Natasha asked. "I ordered the food the first five disks are in the Cd player. My Older brother Jeremy is refilling the Liquor Cabinet as we speak. So who is this guy thats giving you problems and what kind of problems?" Nick asked genually concerned. Natasha was shocked she didn't know how to answer. So she pulled the Im a scarred little girl card and Curled up close to Nick and barried her face in his chest. The doorbell rang and the party was starting. Natasha sat up and whiped the nonexistant tears from her face. Nick went and answered the door. Natasha got up and started the music. Nick wrapped his arm around her waist. Natasha looked to see who came in. "Hey Stephanie, Carl, John good to see you guys." Natasha said "Hey Natasha lets go get a drink to start the evening" Stephanie said. Stephanie and Tasha went over to the liquor cabinet. "Hey Jeremy you sticking around tonight?" Natasha asked. "I don't know are you dancing?" He asked. "Maybe." Natasha said. "Well then Maybe I will stay." He said. Stephanie and Natasha got their drinks. Natasha was drinking vodka as usual. "SO whats the deal with you and Nick and does Micheal know yet?" Stephanie asked. "There is nothing for Micheal to know. Nick and I have the same relationship we have allways had.Besides Micheal has a girlfriend" Natasha said "Yeah but even she knows that you have allways been his number one girl." Stephanie said. "You make him sound like some kind of Pimp and I can't believe your defending him he is such an Arogant prick and I am NOT HIS." Natasha said a little angry. ------------------------------------------------ Meanwhile (While Natasha and Steph are getting their drink) "Hey guys. What do you think of Natasha?" Nick asked. "Whoa man if I am thinking what your thinking She's off limits man. Micheal would have your Ass for messing with his woman." Carl said. "You think even with his girlfriend. Well you know what I don't care when everyone gets here I am asking her out. If Micheal doesn't like it he can go screw himself." Nick said. There was a knock at the door Micheal and his girlfriend had arrived. People started arriving in larger groups and Natasha asked Nick to dance with her. |
| Caitlin By the time Caitlin walked up to the house that was addressed in the invitation, it was bustling with noise and people. She walked up to the front door, her back straight and her head held high, not letting it show how nervous she was. She had a polite look on her face but was waiting till she actually saw some people before she put her smile in place. Caitlin walked through the front door, and many people were standing around in the enterance hall with drinks in hand. She slapped on her smile and flashed it in their direction, walking through the house. Oh why had she come here? She felt slightly out of place in her long sleeved navy blue shirt with a longer white undershirt showing from underneath the bottom, and her regular jeans that were neither too tight nor too loose, while every other girl was skantily clad. However, she felt a small reassurance in the small object safely hidden in her pocket. If worse came to worse, she could run out of here and find the closest place she could be alone. "Hey, want a drink?" A guy Caitlin recognized from the grade above her had walked up to her, an extra plastic cup in hand. She could smell the alcohol. "Oh..no thanks," she smiled at him. "I'm not drinking tonight." "Aww, come on, don't be a dud!" He was tall, at least a full head taller then her, and muscular. He was on the football team. Caitlin remembered his last name, McGuire. He had perfect wavy blonde hair, straight white teeth, and sparkling eyes. All the girls swooned over him, but Caitlin had never spoken to him before. "Um...well, alright." Caitlin smiled and took the cup from him, raising it to her lips. She tried not to breathe in the smell as she took a small mouthful, and tried even harder not to show the distaste on her face while her throat tried hard not to gag the beer back up. "That'a girl!" McGuire said and slapped her on the back. "I'm Tony, by the way. Tony McGuire." He held out his hand. Caitlin was thankful that her hands weren't too sweaty as she held hers out to shake his as she replied. "The football player." "The best." Tony grinned. Caitlin suddenly noticed how very close he was to her, and she could smell the stale alcohol in his breathe. His words were slightly slurred and he kept staring at her mouth, grinning stupidly. It wasn't hard to tell that he was drunk. "So, why don't you gimme some'a that lovin," he grinned, getting even closer to her. Caitlin inched her head back a little bit. "Pardon?" She said. "Yoouuu know, that lovin you give the principal." Tony exaggerated the word as prince-ee-paaal. "EEEVERYONE knows what you do. That's how you get some'a the highest grades in the school. You stop by his office all the time and give him some'a that sweet self." At this time, Tony's hand came up and groped at Caitlin's breast. The smile had long ago slipped from her face as her heart sped up and her breathing quickened. She tried to brush his hand away from her. "Aaah, I see you like the thought of gettin a lil' bit'a Tony. The Football Champ." Tony leaned in to kiss Caitlin, but she turned her face away and he missed his drunked aim, his kiss landing wet and sloppy by her ear. The music was blasting in the background and everyone seemed too preoccupied to notice that Caitlin was in a struggle with this prick. She was by now with her back against a wall, and he was blocking her from getting anywhere away from him. She was really regretting coming to this party now. "Wassa matter?" Tony slurred. He grabbed Caitlin's chin and turned her face to his, landing a drunken kiss on her mouth. As Caitlin gasped in shock, he slithered his tongue into her mouth. With a squeak of surprise, Caitlin pushed him away with all her strength. He stumbled in his drunken state, right into a small end table, knocking it over. People moved out of the way with angry cries as he spilt his drink, only to laugh once they saw that it was the Great Tony McGuire. "Aaah, I knew you were a square little bitch anyways. Go fuck the teacher." Tony spat the words at her as he turned the corner, just narrowly missing the wall, and stumbled away. Caitlin stood frozen. Her heart was racing, beating so hard she was sure it was goin to break out of her chest. She wouldn't have been surprised if everyone could hear it over the music. Her breath was starting to catch, and her hands were shaking. She knew if she didn't get somewhere soon... As Caitlin hurried through the house in search of the bathroom, she saw Natasha on the arm of a guy. She spotted Caitlin and grinned, making a move to get to her to talk. Caitlin tried to smile, but one word came out of her mouth instead. "Bathroom," "What? Oh, just down the hall, last door on your right." Natasha said, pointing Caitlin in the right direction. Caitlin didn't say another word and hurried into it, locking the door safely behind her and digging in her pocket. She sat down on the closed lid of the toilet, rolling up her sleeve with a shaky hand. |
| Robert and Amy were quiet the rest of the way home. The passed by a house where music was blasting and the whoops and hollars of enjoyment were even louder than the music. The two of them watched the house as they drove by it. The thought of them both passing up a party was strange. Both of them felt it. When it was out of sight the two of them both looked forward and watched the road. Amy swallowed hard. "Robbie," she said in her cute little weak tone that she hadn't allowed herself to use since she found out she was pregnant. "I'm sorry I invited myself to live at your house. Is your mom going to like me? Or will she resent me forever for letting this happen?" Robert shook his head. "She'll love you. I mean she made the same mistake that we did. She was just a little bit older when it happened." Amy nodded. "What if she doesn't want me to stay at your house?" Robert stopped at a red light. He looked at her smiled. "Well then, we're just going to have to hide you in my room. I kept a dog I had a secret from her for a week. As long as you don't bark or crap everywhere you should be good," he said light heartedly. Amy's eyes widened fearfully. "It's a joke. Of course she's going to let you stay. We'll just tell her what happened with your parents and hope for the best." Amy nodded and laid a hand over her stomach. In her head she felt like reassuring her babies. They'd gone this far and there was no going back. |
| Janet had never been to a party before. Not like this one anyway. The boy that had tried to ask her out twice now looked in her direction. Trying to duck into the crowed, he managed to corner her in a hallway niche, putting a drink into her free hand. It smelled strongly of the brandy that her father drank often after dinner. "Um...thanks" Janet mumbled, bringing her red plastic cup to her mouth and inhaling the fumes but not actually drinking. "No prrobleem," he said, dragging out the word. The chopping the next sentence, she played with her hair, "I din't thik youd mak it," he smiled, straighted up and seemed to sober up a bit. "I'm Jeremy. I don't think I told you." Janet just gave a nod, hoping that he would try to touch her or anything. There were just so many people... "Um, thanks for the invite," Janet said looking around. He seemed to just be looking her over and not really listening to her. "You are pretty, you know that?" he said playing with her hair, "Why wear such gothic clothes? It looks good on you, but you aren't like into death or something are ya?" Janet was caught off guard by the question. "N..n..no,"she stammered. "My..my mother, um, likes it." She said, suddenly moving to the side to keep some football jock from spilling his drink on her. "Oh, lookie here!" his slurr was worse than Jeremey's. "It's a teacher's pet! There'sss twooo heerrrree," He said, raising his cup and turning around to salute a crowd that paid no atention to him. "Dooo yoou want tooo kep alllll the lov to thhh tea-A-churs tooo?" He reached in to get a kiss from Janet. She moved to the side, Jeremy interving. She shook as Jeremy took her arm and led her away. "Are you oookay?" he asked. "Don't mind Tony, he's just a big jerk." Janet gave a smile and moved off, "Where are you goin'?" "Bathroom," she said spitting out the first thing that came to mind. He nodded and let her go. She went up the stairs where she hoped to find some quiet space where she could stop shaking. "Looking for the bathroom?" a girl in a red leotard said seeing Janet's searching look. Janet nodded numbly. She pointed towards a closed door. janet made her way for it, only to find it locked and someone already inside. She slid down the wall, holding her violin case in both hands. "There you are!" Tony said comming up the hallway towards her. "You aren't going to be stupid are ya?" he said, slurring his speech tremendously and reeking of liquor. "I have to go to the bathroom," Janet said looking at him, and seeing his size rivaling that of her father. She shrunk down and into herself a bit, seeing her father in the jock infront of her. "Whas hiss?" he asked moving to pick up her case. "You gotta gun or somm-hing?" he said as she moved to hug the violin closer. "No, just my violin. Please leave it alone." "Lemme see," he said, moving to grab it as she stood with her back to the door and hid her case behind her. As he moved to grab it, the door opened, and Janet stumbled into the bathroom backwards. She closed and locked the door, turning to confront whoever she had just locked in there with her. "Uh..hi," Janet said surprised to see Caitlin there. Caitlin looking paler than normal, gave a cheery smile. "H-h-hi," she said equally surprised to see Janet. "I'm sorry," Janet said leaning against the door. This jock was trying to kiss me," Janet said shuddering. "Tony?" Caitlin asked, and Janet could hear a tone that matched her own. She nodded and and equal shudder went through her. Caitlin clutched her back as Janet grabbed her arms and sank to the floor. "We can't stay in here forever," Janet whispered, looking at the fish clock hanging on the wall. "The library closes in a few minutes.." "The library?" Caitlin looked at the one person she hoped she could trust, but held back. Janet nodded. The dancer figured that neither of them told their parents that they would be here. Janet was starting to rock back and forth on her heels. "If father finds out..." she started to whisper. Caitlin kneeled down, to see a worried and somewhat paniked look on Janet's face. "I shouldn't have come... I shouldn't have come..." "Janet?" Caitlin said touching her arm to hopefully get her attention. The girl was scaring her. Janet flinched at the touch so hard that she bumpd back against the wall. A sharp intake of breath to keep from screaming and Janet was back in control. "Um..are you, are you alright?" Janet nodded. Then shook her head. "I've, I've got to go," Janet said slowly comming to stand. "He'll kill me if he finds out," she said. Caitlin knew she was talking about her dad. She looked at Caitlin. "Come with me, please? I'll pay for the taxi," Janet said looking calm. "I can say that we went to the campus to practice and work on homework...and...lost track of time," Janet said thinking fast. She opened the door and dragged the girl outside, grabbing her arm, causing some of the fresh cuts to stick to the shirt. Once they were outside, Janet found a cellphone and called a taxi to come pick them up. "Janet.." Caitlin started. Janet looked at Caitlin then down at her wrist that she still held like a life preserver. "Oh, sorry," Janet said letting go. The shirt statred to dimple red, but the musician was oblivious to it. She jumped into the cab and waited for Caitlin to follow. "Caitlin, come on, please? My dad'll..." Janet stopped, realizing that she almost told her what her father did. "Comming?" she said instead, with a false air of cheeriness. |
| That life was over, Robert thought as he pulled into the drive with Amy. He wasn't sure what his mother would say but if he knew her she would accept Amy with open arms. And once Robert told her what Amy's father had tried to do hsi mother would only be the happier to have saved the babies lives. Amy was hesitant to get out of the car. She felt like a stranger going into an unknown land where there were killer monsters. Laying a protective hand on her stomach Amy walked over to Robert who stood on the porch waiting for her. "I'm scared." Amy said to Robert in a whisper. "Don't be. Mom I'm home." Robert yelled while he took Amy's coat from her. "Hey honey." Roberts mom, Marie, came out wiping her hands on a dish towel. She stopped in her tracks and looked at Amy. "Mom this is Amy. I thought it was pass due that you meet her." Amy held out her hand to the woman. But Marie didn't take her hand, instead she grabbed Amy into a hug on a mother could give. "I'm so happy to finally meet you. Robert has talked about you for some time now." Amy was taken aback by the kindness this woman was showing her. She had expected Marie to yell for Amy to get the hell out. But instead she was welcomed with open arms, quite literally. "Thank you. I hope I'm not interrupting anything." "Oh no, I was just making a small snake. Are you hungry?" Amy was hungry but she wasn't sure if she was suposse to say yes or no. Robert answered for her. "Yes. Were starved. Um, mom I have a question to ask." "Sure, but lets talk over some cake. I just frosted it." Sitting in the kitchen five minets later, all three adults were eating chocolate cake and drinking milk. "SO what did you want to talk about Robbie?" Marie asked her son as she looked Amy over. The poor child looked like she had gone threw hell. "Um, well we have a little problem. Well it's a big problem. Amy-" "Are the babies okay?" Marie asked concern playing all over her face. "Yes there as fine as they can be at the moment. The problem is Amy got kicked out of her house, well it was more she had to leave is she wanted to save herself and the babies." "Robert!" Amy hissed. She had justed wanted him to tell his mother she got kicked out not that she had to leave for her safty. "What the hell do you mean protect the babies and Amy. What happened?" Anger was rising up in Marie's voice. Robert told his mother the whole story, all the while holding Amy's hand. When he was done Marie spoke. "What the hell do they think they were doing! I kill the bastard he should be trying to help you through this time in your life not kill your children! Amy there is no way your going home. Your staying here and that is final. Even if I have to take a third job I will, by God, let those children have the best damn life. They will never know what it is your going through." Amy was shocked by Maries action. She had been prepared to be kicked out on her ass. Well people could surprise you, she thought to herslef. And the cake was damn good to though. |
| Natasha had seen Caitlin and even shown her where the Bathroom was but she had never seen her come out. She was hoping she could talk to Caitlin, but what would she have said. Someone cut the music. The whole party went silent and Nick turned to Natasha. "Well I guess this is as good a time as any. Natasha will you go out with me?" Nick asked. Natasha glanced around the room Everyone was staring. Her eyes met Micheals. "Yes Nick I would love to go out with you." Natasha spoke timidly. Nick Kissed her hard on the mouth. There were a couple of gasps some chearing and a squeek from micheals girlfriend as his hand squeezed a little too hard. The music started back up everyone went back to dancing and Micheal's grip fell hard on Natasha's shoulder. She gasped. "Can I speak to you alone?... Just for a minute." Micheal spoke slowly staring at Nick. "Come on Nick lets step outside" Natasha was shaking at this point she had thought he was talking to her. Nick nodded and stepped out the front door. Natasha made her way to a couple of guys. "Hey I just want you to make sure everything stays fair I don't want Nick to get in over his head." Tasha whispered to the two guys who followed them outside. Natasha went to the front window and was now shaking as she watched Micheal Harrass Nick. Nick walked towards the house. Micheal stood there. The front door opened. "Tasha lets talk." Nick said. Natasha walked over. "what?" Tasha asked. "Micheal is under the impression that the two of you are sleeping together." Nick said. "No..." Natasha looked up and saw Micheal. Natasha was shaking. She looked so scared. "Are you ok" Nick put a hand on her. "Can.......We....Talk about... this a...alone?" Natasha spoke timidly. Micheal gave her a look that could kill. Natasha closed her eyes for a second and prayed that Nick would understand. Nick took her hand and they made there way upstairs and locked the door. "Now what do we need to talk about?" Nick spoke comfortingly. He still sounded mad but there was a smoothness to his voice. "I..Drunk..............Monster......*choke*...R.Rape." Natasha choked out she was crying so hard now. |
| Caitlin Agaisnt her better judgement, Caitlin slipped into the cab beside Janet. They were each on opposite ends of the back seat, each as close to the windows and as far from eachother as they could get. Caitlin clutched protetively to her arm, breathing deeply, frightened of how close she had come to getting caught with her disgusting secret. And Janet... "Thanks for coming with me, Caitlin." Janet said softly. Caitlin looked over at her, but Janet was looking down, not at Caitlin. "Thank you for the ride," Caitlin said. Janet nodded and she continued to look at her. "Are you sure you're alright?" Janet nodded her head, but still did not look at Caitlin. She reached out her un-injured arm, a movement as if to touch Janet lightly on the shoulder, but left her hand hovering in the air instead as Janet twitched at her movement. "Is there something you want to tell me?" Caitlin asked quietly. She heard a soft sniff and Janet, who's bowed head was hidden by her hair, raised a hand to her face. By now the cab had stopped by Caitlin's house. Caitlin knew that Janet was on the verge of telling her something very important. But time was running out, and she felt the need to nudge her along. "Is it Tony?" She asked. As soon as she did, Janet came to her senses and realized that she could not, would not, tell anyone about her father. "Um, yea, the creep just freaked me out. That's all." Janet said, raising her head now and giving Caitlin a weak smile. "I'll see you on Monday." Caitlin nodded and climbed out of the cab, not wanting to pry Janet any further. She knew how important privacy was. How important one's secrets were. She knew only too well. |
| Robert held a baseball bat in hand as he crept toward the kitchen. He'd heard a strange noise in the house in the middle of the night and grabbed it first thing. He held it up as he walked through the doorway and turned on the light. Amy stuck her head out of the refrigerator and turned around to see Robert with the bat held over his shoulder. She yelped and Robert dropped the bat to his side. "Geez, you scared me. I thought someone was in the house," Robert said. Amy held her chest. "I scared you? You're sneaking up on me with a bat!" Amy shouted. She looked once more in the refrigerator and then sat at the kitchen table. Robert sat down beside her. "Your mom is so nice. I hate to be an intruder in her house." Robert scooted his chair closer to her and wrapped his arm around her. "It's no big deal." Amy laid her head down on the table top. "It feels like a big deal," she muttered. "I'm really sorry." "There's nothing to be sorry about," Robert assured. Amy wiped her eyes before tears could roll down uncontrollably. "You got any relish?" she asked suddenly. Robert cocked an eyebrow. She looked at him and smiled. "If not that's fine. Macoroni and cheese will work too. Oh! Or both!" "Ew," Robert managed to say. "Yeah. Weird combo. I think one baby wants relish and the other wants macaroni and cheese. Geez, that's just what I need. To put on more weight," she said. Robert smiled and shook his head. |
| The cab pulled out onto the street and Janet watched as Caitlin waked into her house. She sighed and leaned back into the seat. She looked at the cab driver from the rear seat and rested her head back. "Are you alright little miss?" the cabbie asked. Janet nodded, thinking back. She really wanted to tell Caitlin. But she knew that she could never tell her; it was too important. Plus, the cab driver would've heard, and then...who knows? "Fine, sir," she said looking out the window as the lights passed the car...or the car passed the lights, she thought. The cab eventually pulled up into the driveway. Even from where she was she could tell that her father was waiting for her. "Sir, could you say that you picked me up at the college library?" "Yes miss," he said looking at the stern looking man as he approached the cab, pulling out a wallet. Janet gave a smile and dropped a ten, everything she had in her pocket, on the seat where he could see it. He was going to get a double tip for the fare. Janet climbed out, holding her violin case close to her. Her father paid the man and he drove off, leaving the girl alone with her father. She rushed inside and moved to go to her room. "Did you have a good time," her father asked looking at Janet. Janet looked down. |
| "Hey I think you would be kind of cute with a bulging belly." Robert said as he got up to put some water on the stove for his girlfriend. "No I wouldn't I would be fat and ugly." Amy began to pout. Robert walked over to Amy and slid his arms around her waist. "Nothing can make you ugly. You could be all wrinkeled and smelly and you would still be the most beautiful woman in the world." "Really?" "Really." Robert kissed the top of Amy's head. "Now lets see about that Mac and Cheese" |
| Nick soothed Natasha not asking her to speak as she cried. She slowly calmed down realizing the tears in his eyes and the comfort he was giving her. "Nick." Natashas voice cracked and she wiped her face. Nick looked her in the eyes. "Care to try and tell me again." Nick spoke calmly brushing a hand across her cheek holding her closer. Natasha started to shake she wanted to tell him. She wanted someone to know. But Micheal would kill him and me. "the only time I ever had.......... sex with.......*choke* Micheal was a couple months ago at Jason's house when I was ...abnormaly drunk .....I couldn't even walk home. ......The.... monster took me up ...stairs and I was so ....out of it I couldn't even..... fight. I kind of collapsed... on the floor allmost .....past out ....................... when he abruptly made me Sober by Raping me." Natasha said choking and crying shaking. Nick didn't interupt her he sat there intently listening it took her a good 30 minutes to tell the story as it was. "Shhhh Angel I wont say a word you lay here and I will watch over you We can talk about this when your ready. You poor thing I can't believe. He's terrible No one would have thought. You had been acting strange but you have been dealing so well your so strong. I should have known. I try to keep an eye out." NIck whispered in my ear soothing my hair. My eyes closed as I sank into his lap. This was so unlike him. He was the partier and yet it was so warm he seemed to know exactly what to say to make things just enough better to take the shakes away. He left me alone long enough to lock the door. and then he came back and I curled into him. I was so close we could have been one person. And for just an instant for the first time the icky feeling the crawling of my skin was gone. |
| Amy sat in her desk worrying about the future. There was no money. There was no family. There were no real friends There was just her and Robert, who she had no idea what to think of him. Did he love her? Did she love him? "Ms. Tolan." Amy looked up quickly. "Are you paying attention or taking a nap?" asked the firm teacher. Amy thought for a moment. She was already beginning to show, though it wasn't necessarily distinctly a pregnant belly. Everyone was going to find out soon enough. "Excuse me. I think I'm going to throw up," Amy said getting up to leave. Not even waiting for a response, she stood up and walked out into the hallway. She wandered slowly looking down at her stomach. "Boys or girls? Or both?" she pondered aloud. She placed here hands on her stomach like she had many times now feeling on the inside for motions of the babies. "Sons and daughters. Halloween outfits, Christmas with Santa Clause again. I've never even held a baby before." Amy smiled. "I hope I don't screw you guys up like my parents did," she said. "And you two will never have to know them. I'll protect you from them and other evil things." Amy smiled. She wasn't even making sense, but the fact that she was talking to her children was amazing. Her first words to her children. She suddenly got excited. "You won't be rich, but having money is only a little part in life. You're going to have a loving Mommy and Daddy and one day we're going to take you to Disneyland," she said with a grin. She gave a happy little twirl. She was talking to her babies. "But only if you're good. And I'm going to drop you off at school and make your lunches and hold you and sing to you and..." "Excuse me!" someone said. Amy's happy little moment came to an abrupt stop. She stared wide eyed at the principal. He cocked an eyebrow at her. "What are you doing out of class?" Amy started to stutter. "I...didn't feel good," she said. "Oh really?" the principal said not convinced. She nodded. Suddenly her stomach groaned out loud. Amy bent over and threw up. All that swirling and skipping with her unborn children was catching up to her. The principal backed out of the way avoiding getting the mess on his shoes. Amy looked up at him with big innocent blue eyes. "Oh," was all he said. "I'm going to go to the health's office if you don't mind," she said. He nodded and let Amy pass. Amy surpressed a giggle as she walked passed him. Once he was out of hearing range she patted her stomach. "Good job, kids," she whispered. |
| School on Monday was hard. Not that the classes were hard, it was that facing the people at school was hard. Moving was hard. Her dad never found out about the party, but her little sister had gotten into trouble and he had taken it out on her. She had stayed in her room, only comming out for meals and today, school. At her locker, she got a whiff of a familiar scent and turned around to see Jeremy standing there, placing a hand on the locker next to hers. "Hey, sorry, there," he said seeing her startled surprise. "I'm sorry about what happened at the party,"he said actaully honest. Janet's chest constricted. He sounded like he actually meant it, and she could't even give him a viable excuse. "Why'd you leave? It wasn't something I did was it?" Janet shook her head. His smile made her chest hurt. "My dad wanted me home early..." she got out her books, closing her locker. He ran a hand gently through her hair, brushing the loose locks behind her ear, causing her to flinch. Makeup covered the healing flesh on her cheek well enough, but it still hurt. "Hey, did you get enough sleep last night?" he asked trying to look her in the eyes. She shook her head. And looked for a way out. "Studying," she said looking for an secape route before he realized the dark circle under her eyes weren't from lack of sleep. She saw Caitlin hurrying towards the bathroom. "Hi Caitlin!" she said calling out. She looked at her watch and gave she hoped a placeated him. "Looks like I'll be late for class if I don't go." Ducking under his arm, she rushed off after Catilin into the girl's bathroom. Inside, Janet could hear muffled sniffles from one of the stalls. She moved towards it, then stopped, remembering how Jeremy almost saw her face. No... it that was Caitlin, she would have to make sure that her face...she couldn't allow her secret to be revealed. What would she think? Caitlin wouldn't want to be her friend anymore. She went over the the mirror and cheaked her foundation, quickly doing touch-ups to the area around her eyes and cheeks. At that moment she hated Gloria for what ever her younger sister had done. She paused for a moment, in the middle of applying a light blush. She couldn't hate her sister, it was hard sometimes, not to hate her, but her sister wasn't the real reason she had to wear so much make-up. No, she had seen how other families were; they didn't go taking out their anger on their children. Other children were grounded or lectured. No, it wasn't Gloria's fault for making what ever mistake she made. As Janet nodded to herself in the mirror, she put on her lipstick, a nuetral tone with a slight tinge of red to it assured that her sister was safe. She promised herself that she would talk to Gloria about what had made Father so mad and would figure out a way to kep it from happening again. The door to the stall opened, and through the mirror, she could see her only friend come out. |
| Robert sat at his desk in class and tried to concentrate. He liked school overall but he knew that he had to quit after the semester so that he could work full time. He was going to make damn sure that he gave his children the best life. Wwith his mothers and his incomes together they might be able to add another room so that the babies can have. He and his mother had sat down teh night before and figured out prices for diapers and formula, that is unless Amy decideds to breast feed, then all that money save would go towards Amy's college. He was in love with her. The thought struck Robert like a brick. He clentched hsi stomach as it danced. But then he remembered Amy's reaction to his proposal. She wouldn't beleive him. If he was her he wouldn't believe him either. So he would have to show her that he loved her. Picking up his pen he began to concentrate on how to properly bandage a large gash. |
| Natasha woke up to Nick soothing my hair. "your awake..." He said softly Natasha jumped. "Your dad called I told him you would be home after school today. We are allready late so if you want to go we can other wise we could stay here." Nick said. "We didn't???" Natasha asked confussed. "no Angel. You cried yourself to sleep in my lap." Nick responded. "we beeter go to the second half of the day." Natasha said. Natasha got up and walked down to her car pulled out a boot box. She then proceeded to take off her boots and put them in the box. Grabed the shoe box and the wallmart sack. Went into the house and changed into a pair of tight jeans and a low cut t-shirt and a pair of tenis shoes. "My don't you look attractive?" He said with a grin on his face. "Are you ready to go?" Natasha asks. Natasha quickly braided her hair and jumped in her car. "see you at school." Natasha said and blew Nick a kiss. Natasha arrived right at the passing period after lunch. She walked to her class and was abruptly thrown against a wall. "You told him didn't you? You little whore." Michael whispered. She was pinned she tried to look past him. |
| Caitlin Caitlin's breath caught in her throat as she spotted Janet in front of the bathroom mirror. What was she doing there? How long had she been there? Had she heard anything? Had she seen anything? What if she knew? She was going to hate her! She would never want to talk to her again, or even look at her. Janet would know how much of a freak she was, and never want anything to do with her ever again. "Hi." Janet said with a cheery smile. Slowly, Caitlin let out her breath and clutched her bag to her side, making sure her arms were safely covered. Then she plastered her smile onto her face. "Hi, Janet. Thanks again for the ride the other night." Caitlin noticed that Janet looked slightly nervous, and lightly touched her face a couple of times, as if making sure it was still there. "Oh, yes, it was no problem at all." As Janet spoke, Caitlin noticed a little spot below her eye, on her cheekbone, where Janets finger and rubbed away a small bit of coverup. A blue-ish tinge had appeared there, almost as if there was a bruise under all of it. Caitlin cocked her head. "Are you okay?" "What? Of course I am. What do you mean?" Janet asked, a little jumpy. "Is that a bruise?" "What?" Caitlin was sure Janet had actually jumped this time. "What? Of course not, no, how could I have a bruise? Um, excuse me, I need to use the washroom." And in a flash, Janet was inside one of the stalls. Caitlin stood there for a moment, trembling. She knew, didn't she? Janet knew what Caitlin had been doing. But, did she? She had still talked to her. But...she seemed to want to get away pretty fast. She knew...didn't she? |
| At home Amy stood in front of the Lutz's mirror sideways. The dreaded bump was there early of course because twins were taking up twice as much room. "Ugh...I'm huge," she moaned. Suddenly Robert's mom poked her head in the bathroom. Amy jumped and then relaxed. "Hi," his mother said. "Oh! Look at your tummy!" Amy pulled down her shirt. "It's getting hard to hide it at school," Amy said quietly. Ms. Lutz smiled and put a hand on her shoulder. "Big sweaters," she suggested. "I'm already down to that. I quit cheerleading and...Should I just drop out?" Amy asked. Ms. Lutz's eyes widened. "No!" she shouted. Amy immediately regretted her words. "I'm sorry," she responded. Ms. Lutz laughed. "There's nothing to be sorry about," she said. "You need to get over this fear of people judging you. I'm sorry we can afford to put you through that pregnant teenager school." Amy shook her head. "It's not your fault," she said. The front door closed alerting both women that Robert was home. "Amy!" he shouted. Amy and Ms. Lutz walked out into the living room. Robert set down his backpack and stood beside her. At the door was Mr. Tollan. Amy clasped her hands over her stomach. "Amy," he said. "Leave us alone, Daddy," Amy growled protectively. "Get out of the house, sir," Ms. Lutz agreed. Another man came from behind him and reached over to hand Amy and Robert an envelope. "You're serving us?" Amy asked astonished. "If you insist on having that child it at least needs a decent place to live. You won't be making enough money to support a baby. Fortunately, your mother and I will be will to take it in," Mr. Tollan said. "I would sooner put them up for adoption," Amy spat. Mr. Tollan raised his eyebrow. "Them?" "That's not going to happen," Robert said. "Get out. I'm not going to say it again," Ms. Lutz said. Mr. Tollan turned to leave with his lawyer. Amy's eyes narrowed as he left and shut the door behind him. Robert put his arm around her shoulder and held her. |
| Janet pulled out a mirror and looked at her face. Caitlin knew, she just knew it. She was shaking. Outside of the stall, she could hear Caitlin's footsteps. They hesitated in the middle of the room, and seemed indicisive. Jaket shook her head and forced herself to get under control. Her hands shaking, she looked into the hand mirror again, picking up the brush. Ironic how it was hermom that showed her how to apply the make-up. Caitlin wore a bit herself, but it was easy to see that it wasn't for hiding behind. But Caitlin knew. She chided herself for trying to make a friend. But at the same time, she desperatly needed that friend, and knew it. "Caitlin," she said quietly from the stall. There was no sound. Had she left already? She paused, and could hear her breathing, sounding scared. Oh god, she knew. She would never want to speak to Janet again. Oh god..ohgodohgodohgodohgodohgod... "J-j-janet?" Caitlin said in much the same tone. Janet took a chance. As she always seemed to do of late. But maybe she could cover it up...maybe, "Do you have any lipstick I could um...borrow? I ran out.." she said tensing a bit. She opened the stall a bit and peered out. Caitlin was looking towards her and the door, her arms clutching her purse and books close to her chest. "Please don't tell anyone," Janet whispered, thinking that her friend was going to tell the nurse...or worse....a teacher... |
| Robert read the summons over again. "There not going to take the babies." He stated as he looked at Amy from across the table. "How can they do this. First they try to kill the babies and now they want to take them away from me." Amy was silently crying while rubbing here belly. "I'll quit school. I already have an interveiw for another job. I can start working full time at Barnes & Nobel this week. And hopefully I can get the part time job at McDonalds. Then with my mom's income we should be okay." Robert rubbed his hands over his face. He coudln't beleive that he was at risk for losing his children. "I could quit-" Amy said. "No!" Ms. Lutz said again. "I told you earlier your not quiting. If Robert has to quite school your not. Your going to college. And as soon as there is enough money Robert is going back to Medical school." Robert and Amy looked at Ms.Lutz in admiration. "Okay that settles it. Now what shall we have for dinner?" Ms. Lutz said as she stood up from the kitchen table and walked to the fridge. |
| Natalies eyes screamed for an exit. There was none. It was as if they were invisible. The bell rang. "Damn it. I can't be late to this class again. But next time I see you we're gonna talk." He screamed. That bell was her saving grace. She hurried into her classroom. her heart was racing and hands were shaking. "Hey wow good to see you Natalie where were you this morning?" "i just woke up a little while ago." she replied. After class was over She ran out of the building taking a senic route to her class it was worth it because she didn't meet Micheal. |
| Caitlin "Do you have any lipstick I could um...borrow? I ran out.." Janet asked, opening the stall door a bit and peering out. I cluthed my bag and books close to my chest. "Please don't tell anyone," Janet whispered. "What? That you ran out of lipstick? Why not?" Caitlin asked, suddenly confused. Why was Janet so freaked out? Was she freaked out of Caitlin? Well no, that didn't make any sense, then she wouldn't be asking her not to tell anyone. Was she freaked out about the bruise? Why, it's just a silly little bruise, Caitlin got them all the time from spills in dancing. But...wait. Suddenly, it clicked together in Caitlin's head. Janet didn't do anything that might cause a bruise on her cheek and make her that freaked out about it. Something must not be right. Something must have happened to make that bruise appear that Janet didn't want people to know about. Should Caitlin ask, or mind her own business? How would you like it if someone suddenly asked you about what you do to yourself? The voice in Caitlins head spoke. It was right. She couldn't ask, Janet obviously didn't want anyone to know. Caitlin cleared her throat. "Er, no, sorry, I don't have any lipstick. Um...bye." With that, Caitlin hurried out of the bathroom as fast as she could. That was such a close call. She had been so sure that Janet knew. And what was Janet hiding that she didn't want anyone to know about? Maybe they had more in common then Caitlin thought... |
| Amy walked onto the school campus feeling like a balloon. A balloon that everyone saw, that everyone was talking about. She doubted it was true. Amy had found a knew love for big shirts and even oversized jackets no matter what the weather was. It was hard not to touch her stomach though. She felt a constant need to rest her hand on it, to protect herself whenever she nearly bumped into someone. She desperately fought the urges though. No need to emphasize what she guessed everyone knew was there. As she walked down the hall alone to her next class the door beside her flew open. Amy screamed hysterically. All instincts tore loose and defeated the battle with self control. Amy clutched her stomach, enhancing its roundness. Caitlin gasped and immediately backed away. Amy peered through the hair that had fallen in front of her face as she doubled over. "Um... Hey," Amy said with a small laugh. Caitlin looked back at the bathroom and then at her. "I'm sorry. I must have really scared you. Are you alright? Did I hit you?" she asked quickly. Amy was still breathing heavily. Her heart rate was up. She felt like a scared animal looking for a place to hide. "Yeah. I'm fine," Amy assured. |
| Janet took several deep breaths and watched as the one persone she hoped to consider a friend rush out of the bathroom. Did she go to tell a teacher? If she did, should she wait? No. No, waiting would be bad. She Just needed to clean up, that's it. Making sure teh bathroom was empty, she went over to the mirror as quickly as she could, pulling out her compaq to cover up the purplish yellow bruse on her cheek. Once it was covered well enough she moved to get to her next class hoping that Caitlin wouldn't tell. Two steps to the door, and she heard a scream in the hallway. Her first instict was to run towards the noise, to find out what happened, but he managed to stop short of the door and peer out. Caitlin was helping one of the girls...Amy -Janet thought-up from the floor. "Oh gawd..." Janet whispered as they started to head back to the bathroom. She backed up and away from the door as they entered. "Really, I'm fine," Amy protested. She looked spooked. "Hi," Janet said looking at the girl. "Janet, Amy doesn't feel well," Caitlin said. Janet automatically turned on a faucet to cool the girl and wash her fash that was flushed. "You're flushed," Janet whispered. "My...I..." Janet gave a small smile. "I think that you just need a little rest. My mother went through the similar things with my sister. But I'm sure it can't be all bad." Janet's voice grew to a whisper, "I hope..." She looked away and Amy looked horrified. "Sorry," the girl muttered. "I'll just go...I won't tell anyone. I don't think that they will notice anyway..." Janet gave Catlin the handkerchief that the girl normally used for her makeup. Janet grabbed her books, moving slowly, but in a rush at the same time. She winced every other step on her way to the door. |
| Robert sat in the waiting room and tried not to seem nervous. This was his third job interveiw this week but he was damn sure he was going to make sure that he was able to care for the twins. Were they both boys or both girls? Or maybe one of each. Yeah, he hoped that there were one of each. |
| Caitlin What did she think she was doing? Was was she helping Amy? She was the most popular girl in the school, she wouldn't want to be helped by someone as unimportant as Caitlin. "Really, I'm okay." Amy said, smiling meekly at Caitlin. "Thank you for your help." Caitlin handed her the handkerchief Janet had given her as she had left, and flashed her perfect smile back at Amy. "Well, if you need anything, just...just let me know." Caitlin said. She could've smacked herself the second those words left her mouth, but she regained her composure. "Thanks." Amy said again. Caitlin nodded, gathered her books and her bag, and hurried out of the bathroom. She was going to be late for class. Caitlin really needed to get herself together. Why had she become so stupid! She was getting way too close to Janet, and even though she had thought that having a friend would be nice, that little voice at the back of her head and always been right; it would just lead to trouble. Just look at how close Janet came to finding out about Caitlin's secret! She would have known how sick Caitlin is, what a twisted freak she was, and would never want to even look at her again. And then Amy! What was she doing, trying to help out the popular girl? That couldn't lead anywhere good. Sure, the occasional "Hi" in the halls was perfect, but first she scared the living daylights out of her, and then she tried to help her? Caitlin really needed to start watching out. |
| Amy placed the dinner at the other side of the table and began to set the plates. Ms. Lutz came home dropping her jacket on the chair and blindly heading toward the refrigerator. "I'm sorry I'm late. My boss thinks someone is stealing from the cash register and they thought it was this guy and..." The woman sighed as she scanned the refrigerator for food. "And we're out of of food. So I'm going to pick up some..." Finally Ms. Lutz turned around and saw the meal Amy had presented them with. She smiled innocently. "Oh my," she said. "Amy, what is the occasion?" "I didn't get that job I applied for," Amy answered. "I figured I might as well be doing something productive." "Oh honey..." Ms. Lutz started. Robert suddenly came home and collapsed on the couch. Amy started to dish out the food. "You didn't have to do this." "I wanted to," Amy said. Really the guilt was tearing at her. Here she was barging into this woman's life and living in this woman's house. Ms. Lutz seemed to take that answer just fine. Or perhaps she was too tired to argue to be polite. Amy fixed her plate and one for Robert. She walked into the living room where Robert had collapsed. "Robbie..." she whispered. "Mmm," Robert groaned. "You want some dinner?" Robert opened one eye and saw the meat loaf. "Ames, this is great," he said. Amy sat down beside him. "Robert, someone at school knows," Amy started. Robert stabbed his food. "Who?" he asked. "Janet and Caitlin," Amy said. Robert paused to think. "Who?" Amy shook her head. "These two girls. One who wears a lot of make up and another one. She dances. Or ice skates. Something like that," Amy said. She bit her lip nervously. "I don't think anyone should know," Amy said. "I know, babe," Robert said. Amy flinched at the word. "But they're going to find out sooner than later." "I want to at least hold out as long as possible before people start...saying things. You know what people say about me," Amy said. "I heard it from all of you jerk friends. The girl ones. They say I'm a immature slut." Robert's eyes widened. "What? Who said that?" Robert demanded. "I know they do," Amy said. "I don't want to prove it to them and give them right to... say things." Robert put his arm around Amy and hugged her close. She leaned her head into his shoulder. "I won't let them," he said softly. "I just hope Janet and Caitlin don't say anything," Amy said feeling once again comfort in Robert. |
| Janet sat at her bedroom window staring at the rain the flowed down the side. It was an afternoon shower that led into the evening, and the cool glass was comforting on her shoulder. She examined her hazy reflection in the glass; make-up free, the color of fading bruises along her right cheek and neck healing well enough. Her parents were away again, and soon enough she wouldn’t have any bruises what so ever- if they stayed away long enough. Her aunt was there to ‘watch’ them, but she had hardly been in the house as well, doing several functions of a sort and only coming home to get to sleep. She looked over at Gloria who sat on the carpet surrounded by books and homework. Her sister, so pristine and innocent, was as injured on the inside as Janet was on the outside. The sisters looked at each other for a moment, before Janet looked away, back out to the darkening sky. The bell chimed and Gloria ran out of the room, returning moments later with a bag filled with dinner; baked ziti and rolls with juice for the two of them from the local pizzeria. Gloria brought it over to her, and Janet put away the violin that sat forgotten on her lap and took the fork that Gloria handed her. Silence filled the room; silence filled the house. The two sat together, the remains of dinner gone and cleaned up, a bare memory as the street lamps came on. Gloria closed the last book that held her homework and went to sit in the window across from her sister. “Why don’t you just leave? We could run away,” Gloria said into the silence. Janet looked at her sister and smiled. “Where would we go?” she asked calmly, “Where could we go?” “We could go to Auntie’s house,” Gloria said calmly. Janet shook her head. “It sounds nice, but we would only get in her way, then she would become just like Mother and Father. We’d be back to square one. Worse even.” “They can’t keep this up forever,” the younger sister said stubbornly. “You’ll be off to college soon.” “And you’ll be here alone,” Janet said softly, “No, I can’t leave you here alone.” She took her little sister into her arms and hugged her as hard as she could, even though it hurt her. “Do you really want to end up looking like me? And you- with no little sister to take care of you?” “And no big sister to protect me,” Gloria said softly. “But still,” she argued, “Anything’s got to be better than being here.” “I’ll have a scholarship,” Janet said with a smile, “I’ll get into Julliard and we can go to New York and stay there; you can go to school there too, and if you want, you can join me in Julliard. I can give you lessons as the teachers tell me, and you’ll be years ahead of everyone else.” Janet said looking out of the window, imagining the future. “Father would never allow that,” Gloria said sternly. “You’re suppose to go to Princeton or Stanford and get some degree in being a Doctor or something.” “Mother as well, though I’m sure it’s something in business or Law at Harvard on her mind.” “I want to be a pilot,” Gloria said scrunching her nose. “A pilot? Where did you get this idea?” Janet looked at her sister, raising an eyebrow. “School.” Janet nodded. “Better keep such thoughts to yourself. It’s Med school for you.” Janet spaced off. “What are you thinking about?” Gloria asked. Janet shook her head. “Life’s little secrets,” Janet said softly. Her mind wandered to Caitlin who probably knew about her secret, and then to Amy who was hiding the fact that she was pregnant. “Life’s little secrets, sis.” |
| Thanks for your participation, everyone! The campfire stopped moving along, but Jinsei and myself decided to start a new one with our two characters. Keep reading, and great job everyone! The End! |
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