* Ray POV *
~ 1st Day of Christmas ~
The mall was over packed. People were doing some shopping, Jawan and I were just strolling through. Seeing if we could catch any last good sells. I still had to get Craig a birthday gift. A gift card might be fine? Or some shades.
Jawan: " All these beautiful fly mamas in here….d*mn…." - Jawan rubbed his hands together, looking towards a few. - " That a*s on her…..Mmmmmm mmmm mmmm….."
I laughed ignoring him. Walking through the crowded mall. Laughter, cheers, christmas music all played in the background. I wasn't to focused on them. I was more focused on finding the perfect gift for my Mom.
Something I always wanted to do since I was younger. Be able to buy her a gift, with the money I worked hard for. I hope the gift I picked out will make her smile. Fill her heart with joy. Love. Showing her that I care and love her.
Jawan: - He nudged me softly with his elbow, looking at me. - " Dude, you ok? You just spaced out. " - Laughing, shaking his head. - "
Ray: " Oh just thinking, thats all man. Worry about you, I got this. " - I laughed, he shook his head. - " I'm serious, just wondering what to get my Mom. Thats all dude."
We continued on our way through the mall. Arms wrapped around our shoulders pulling us in, we both turned our heads seeing Jacob(Latimore).
Jacob: " What's good fellas? " - Smiling from ear to ear. - " Last minute shopping? "-
Ray: " You know it, what about you man? " - I asked him, as he shrugged.- " Surprise you're not here with Nique. "
Jacob: " She just left with Bahja and Brea. "
Jawan: " Those colorful females. " - He said with a laugh. -
Jacob: " Haaaaaa get off them Jawan, get off them. " - We all laughed. - " But seriously, what's good for tonight? Anything going down? "
Ray: " Nah, not that I know of....." - Shrugging, as we walked through the mall.- " Ay remember back in 6th grade how we used to run around this place? Getting in trouble? "
They both looked at me, folding their arms nodding. I smirked, looking over at a group of females. I cupped my hands.
Ray: " AYO SHAWWWTY WITH THAT DONK! " - The girl turned around as her and her friends snickered and giggled. I smiled, winking at her.-
Jawan: " Daya is going to kill you bro, better stop while you're ahead. " - He said with a laugh, Jacob stood there with his arms folded. Shaking his head.-
Jacob: " Oh how I miss the old times. " - Shaking his head with a smile on his face. He looked around.- " So...." - He said rubbing his hands together.- " Which store should we turn upside down first....."
We headed towards Macy's, walking in. Looking around. Deciding where to stir up some fun or pranks.
Jacob: " Hide and go seek? Mens section only, that there...." - He pointed off towards a random sign. - " Is base, can't hide near it. "
Jawan looked at me while I looked at him, smiling. Jacob walked over towards the sign as he started to count. Both of us took off running, splitting up. I looked around, going inside of a clothing rack. Squatting.
This brought back memories. The three of us used to be so close. Fourth grade is where it all started. Mrs. Peterson class, always stayed in trouble. But she loved us and pushed us to follow our dreams. Never forget that school play when all three of us had the lead roles.
We kind of fell off coming into high school. Jacob didn't won't anything to do with the gang life. We respected him, didn't need for him to get caught up. We chilled, but not as much back in the day. We were the baddest things walking the halls.
A smirk appeared on my face, the clothes flew back, I jumped some. Seeing Jacob he tapped my forehead.
Jacob: " Got caught, dang. Thought you would've hid somewhere were your shoes can't be seen. "- I looked down, seeing the space between the clothes and floor.-
Ray: " Welp, guess I'm it.....Same rules apply. " - I wonder where Jawan was hiding off. Knowing him he probably wonder off flirting. -
The game continued on, for about 25 minutes until we got caught by the store security. We bolted out of the huge store, heading towards the food court.
Jawan: " I still hold the title to the best hider, no need for claps. I know. I know. "
Ray: - I smacked my lips. - " Yah because you weren't even in the right department, cheating a**. " - Laughing as I shoved him softly.-
Jawan: " Ay ay ay, don't hate on me. Not my fault you suck. "
Jacob: " Nooooo Ray, nooooo hahaha." - I looked at the two, mugging them both.-
Ray: " Y'all better calm that noise before I take both of you out. " - With a smile on my face laughing. -
Sitting down after grabbing our food. I noticed Jasmine, Jacob's girl. I smiled walking over, to greet her.
Ray: " Jas, wassup? Where's your curly head boo at? " - I asked, as she looked up at me from her food.-
Jasmine: " Oh hey Ray....." - She sighed some. - " I don't know, we're not together anymore....."
The tone of her voice sounded hurt, her eyes seemed lifeless. She sat there twirling noodles around with her fork.
Ray: " Oh, I'm really sorry to hear that...." - I sat down across from her. - " Look, I'm sure whatever is going on...It'll be fixed and worked out." - Giving her a warming smile. -
Jasmine: " I doubt it.....He hates me, won't even look at me...." - I could see the tears form in her eyes. - " He treats me like her...Like I'm the one who did sh*t to him...."
Jinsu: " Something going on here? " - I turned around, looking from my seat. Seeing this dude.- " Need help kid? "
Kid, did he really say kid? Pissed me off some, as I ignored him. Facing Jasmine.
Ray: " Well just hit Daya up, I'm sure she's there for yo-" - He slammed his tray on the table, as some of his food splashed everywhere.-
Jinsu: " Runt, get up and move....Or I will force your little a*s up....." - I looked up at him, pissed off to the max. He said it with a smile on his face, looking at Jasmine.- " Who is this little punk? Friend of that h*mo Jacob? "
Jasmine: " Jinsu, stop..." - He brought his finger up to her lip, shushing her as he looked back at me.-
Jinsu: " Now, runt. Do we have an issue? Are you going to get up and leave....Like a good wittle boy? " - His laugh pissed me off.-
Ray: " You don't won't an issue with me......You really don't....." - The cold words escaped from my mouth, his grin started to irrataded me.- " Jasmine, you don't have to take this from this prick. "
Jasmine: " Ray.....Can you please leave......"
Jinsu: " Run along, go on...Get, go play with your little friends. " - I got up from the table, standing in front of him. He folded his arms.- " D*mn you seemed a lot taller sitting down. Kid, go head. I don't feel like whooping your a*s in front of everyone....."
Ray: - I grabbed him by his shirt pushing him, I felt arms pull me back. - " Man let me go, so I can wipe the floor with this b*tch...."
Jacob: " Nah, relax. He ain't worth it....." - He stepped between this Jinsu guy and I. - " We'll be on our way...." - Jawan pulled me away, as Jinsu fixed his shirt.-
Jinsu: " I'll be seeing you around.....Kid....." - Giving me this smirk as he dust his shirt off, sitting down in front of Jasmine.-
I couldn't help but see the hurt and painful look in her dull eyes. She looked broken, emotionless over took her once gorgeous and beautiful smile. Jinsu turned his body, as
we made eye contact. He winked at me, smiling big.
The two looked at me, as we sat down at our table. I stared back.
Jacob: " Dude, what he h*ll happened? " - He blurted out. -
Ray: " I just went to talk to her, he called me out my name. Simple as that. " - Shrugging, I started to eat my tacos. - " Dude is hella disrespectful though, she looks unhappy. "
The two turned around, seeing Jasmine and Jinsu. Focusing back on me, nodding their heads.
Jawan: - A soft sigh came from him. - " Yeah....I wonder what happened between her and Jay though...."
Ray: - I shrugged. - " No idea...." - Taking another bite. - " That dude pissed me off though, smiling in my face while insulting me....He'll learn not to f*ck with me though....."
Jacob: " Calm down Ray, you probably won't ever see that dude again....No need to take it there. " - Jawan nodded his head in agreement.-
Jawan: " Seriously though Loon, he's not worth the trouble. "
Ray: - I looked at the two. - " Y'all are right, thanks."
Once we finished up our food, we got our things ready. Heading out of the mall, walking together. Snow slowly fell from the sky, the cold wind made them twirl a bit.
Adjusting my beanie, shivering from the cold. We made it to our cars, as Jawan got in with me. Jacob walked to his, making sure her made it safe.
Jawan: " So what's good for tonight Bro? " - He looked in my direction, while I looked back.- " I say we do something. With the old crew, game night or something. "
Ray: " That doesn't sound to bad. Haven't done that in a while, " - A smiled appeared on my face. - " sounds nice….I wonder if Diggy will let us come over and have it there. "
He whipped out his phone in an instant. I pulled out the parking lot. Blasting music. Heading towards our next stop. We were going to wing this one, cruise around the city for a while.
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* Tinashe POV *
The decorations were cute. An all white party. Craig is in for a surprise. I decided to join Keke in her quest for the decorations. I held up some cups, his birthday was a day after Christmas. She decided to throw him a surprise party.
Tinashe: " What about these? They're cute, white with sparkles on them. " - Making a surprise face at her, shaking the cups. She laughed, I tossed them in the shopping cart. - " Seriously, Craig will love this. I hope he doesn't think you're neglecting him. I sent Roderick over to keep him company….."
Keke: " Well thats very nice, and I like those. " - She smiled, tossing some napkins in. - " I'm sure he'll enjoy this. I hope so, he's been upset because he think he's spending his birthday inside. "
Tinashe: " Little does he know….Oh Craig, how you'll smile big whenever you see this……Are you inviting Jasmine? " - She paused, looking at me. -
Keke: " Of course…..She's a friend….."
Tinashe: "….And Jacob? "
Keke: " He's a friend of Craig….They seem drama-free when they're around each other…." - Her lips twisted, she she shook her head. - " I'm sure they'll be fine….." - Looking back at me - " Why? "
Tinashe: " Ooooh just asking. " - Shrugging my shoulders, she smiled shaking her head. - " I'm serious, Jasmine is our friend. She never returns texts or phone calls anymore……."
Keke stood there, looking at me. Placing the phone to her ear, I guess she was calling Jasmine. No answer, as she put the phone back in her back pocket.
Keke: " Shall we continue shopping? " - She asked clearing her throat, a worried expression was written all over her face. She walked off as I followed her, pushing the basket. -
Tinashe: " What about these forks? " - I tossed them in the basket without her even looking. - " How about we stop by and see her? " - I knew what was on her mind. -
Keke: " That'll be fine……." - The soft words came from her lips, her boots clicked against the tiles on the floor. -
Tinashe: " I don't know about you, but I'm getting hungry. " - I chuckled some, rubbing my now growing belly. I sighed some. -
Keke: " Eating for two. " - She smiled, placing her hand on my shoulder. We continued our shopping. -
We sat across from each other. Eating. Chatting and laughing. I looked up, watching as the two walked in. I rolled my eyes some, as Keke caught my glance. Looking back. She looked at me, as she smirked.
Keke: " Tinashe, calm it. Don't say anything, if they speak. Speak, if not lets keep moving along. " - She raised a brow, I ran my fingers through my hair. Rolling my eyes. - " I'm serious Tinashe, don't make me call Roderick for you. "
Tinashe: " Go head, call him. " - I stuck out my tongue at her, as she laughed. -
Selena: " Well well well, hello there Keke. " - She said walking over to the table. Lucy followed behind her. - " Happy Holidays to you and Craig. " - Cutting her eyes at me. -
Keke: " Hmmm, same to you Selena. " - She simply said, smiling at her. -
Lucy: " Mind if we join you girls? "
On the inside I felt like beheading the two, on the outside my eyes read kill. Kill these two fronting wh*res. Eat with us? For what, get on with your day already.
I guess Keke read my expression, as she nudged my leg with her foot. Lucy and Selena sat down, across from each other. You could cut the tension with a knife. This very awkward moment.
Selena: " So, do anything special for Craig? " - She asked Keke, eating her food. - " I mean his birthday is coming up right? "
Keke: " Yeah it is, and no. Nothing, I think his family is taking him out to eat. " - I was surprised Keke could lie with a straight face. -
Lucy: - She cleared her throat, looking at me. - " So Tinashe, how does it feel? " - I turned my attention to her, cocking my head to the side. She blinked some. -
Tinashe: " How does what feel? " - I asked with an attitude in my voice. Raising a brow, wiping off my hands with my napkin. -
Lucy: " Well……" - Looking at me, flipping her hair. - " Being 16 and pregnant. " - I dropped my fork in my plate, clanking against the plate. - " I mean it must be hard……" - She had this smudgy smile on her face. -
Tinashe: " How would it feel if I dragged you across the floor by your hair? " - Her eyes grew big, as Keke cleared her throat. I looked at her. - " You know, you two might want to get up and leave. Before I flip this b*tch over on the both of you. "
Selena: " No need to be ashamed of your mistake….."
Mistake echoed in my head. It sent me over the edge. I felt like reaching across the table and bashing her head against the table. I sat there and smiled.
Tinashe: " Aren't you the one to talk….." - I smirked at her. She faced me. -
Selena: " Oh believe me, I can talk. I'm not the one that got knocked up. "
Tinashe: " I'm not the one who got caught sucking Justin's d*ck at a party. " - I covered my mouth. - " Oooops, so sorry. No need to be ashamed of your mistake. "
Selena: - Her cheeks turned red, cutting her eyes towards me. Smiling. - " Yet, I'm not pregnant in hig-……"
Tinashe: " Because you caught the juices in your mouth? " - I cut her off, Keke snorted as she covered her mouth with her hand. -
Lucy: " You should really cut out those smart remarks Tinashe." - Deciding to add her unwanted two-sense in. I shot her a look. -
Tinashe: " Coming from the b*tch who keyed Jacob's car ooh and smashed the windows out? " - I looked between the two. - " Oh lets not forget how you tried to call him out at the party….Oh lets go down the list shall we? "
Keke: " Ok look, can you two just leave. No drama." - Selena glared at me, I glared back. - " Seriously, don't do this sh*t in public. Its petty and childish. " - It caught us all off guard, hearing Keke curse. -
Selena: - She grabbed her tray from the table. Looking at me. - " Keep those last crossed, next time. "
Tinashe: " Spit or swallow? Which will you do next time? " - I shot back at her. The two stormed off. I looked back at Keke. -
Keke: - A smile creeped across her face, as she burst into laughter. - " Tinashe, really? Really? Spit or swallow? " - I laughed along with her. - " I tried to keep a straight face, but dang…..I cannot deal with you when you're roasting someone. "
Tinashe: " Those two started with me, my mistake? Really, those two will learn not to mess with me……"
Our talk went on for another 30 minutes. Getting ready to go see Jasmine. We left the restaurant. Heading towards her house, we chit chatted and joked around the whole ride there.
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* Jacob POV *
The sweat dripped from my face, my curls pulled back into a ponytail. I stared up at my reflection from the ceiling mirror. Lifting weights, I sat up. Arms were burning, rotating my shoulder. I heard a laugh, as I turned around. Looking back.
Jacob: " Nothings funny….." - I said with a smile on my face, as I winched in pain. - " I don't see how you can do this, everyday. Geez. "
Taylor: - He looked at me, smiling. - " Well I'm used of it because I play sports. " - He replied back, folding his arms. -
Jacob: " Still, this is torture. I think you gave me extra pounds on purpose. " - I stood up, rubbing on my burning arm muscle. -
Taylor: " It wasn't that bad, stop whining. " - Slapping my shoulder with his hand. - " So did you ever talk to Jasmine yet dude? " - He asked. -
This subject again. Everyone I talked to brought her up. What don't they understand, she left me out in the cold. Didn't stand up for me, put me out. I had to break it off.
Jacob: " No, not even. I mean why should I? " - I asked looking into his eyes. - " If she cared, she would've stopped her dad and that a*shole from talking about me, right? "
Taylor: " You love her right? " - Ignoring my question as he shot this question at me. -
Jacob: " I mean I did, I guess I still do……."
Taylor: " Then talk to her…..Simple…..Stop being stubborn dude. " - Slapping my shoulder again, I punched him in the chest playfully. He laughed. - " Oh look, skinny man getting some power in his punches. "
Jacob: - I flashed a smile. - " Whatever, I'm strong. " - I said flexing my arm, his hand covered my muscle. Squeezing it. -
Taylor: " Mash potatoes, now these babies. " - Flexing his arms, looking at them. Then at me smiling. - " Pure muscles, go head. You know you want to squeeze them. "
Jacob: - I shook my head. - " Stop hating, you ready? " - I asked looking at him, grabbing my gym bag. Heading to the locker room without an answer from him. -
I wiped myself down in the shower stall, throwing on some fresh clothes finishing up. Our conversation flashed in my head. Maybe I was being stubborn with her, but did I want to risk it again? Did I need to go through her bad mouthing father again?
Deep in thought, looking down at the ground. I bumped into Taylor, he turned around looking at me. As he smiled, wrapping his arm around my shoulder.
Taylor: " Watch it dude. " - Laughing, we walked out the gym. - " Where are you headed? " - He asked taking his arm from around my shoulder. -
Jacob: - I shrugged my shoulders. - " No idea…..Maybe go home and rest since someone had me working hard today. "
Taylor:- He rolled his eyes. - " Stop being a whiney brat about it. " - He placed his hand on my shoulder, squeezing it some. - " Well I'm catching a movie later on, you can join if you want. "
Jacob: " Will do, I need to do some thinking. " - We dapped each other up, going our separate ways. -
I drove around town, figuring out what to do. An idea popped in my head, turning at a red light. I pulled up at the place. Getting out as the wind blew hard, my hair blew in the directions.
I smiled big, seeing her. She smiled back, waving big. Coming up to me.
Demi: " Well what a surprise. Hey there Tiger. " - She flashed her smile at me, hugging me. I hugged her back. - " And what do I owe you for being in your wonderful presence? "
Jacob: - I laughed, hugging her back. - " Oh nothing, I just thought I'd stop by and say hello. You seem awfully bored. " - I looked around her job, she worked at a cupcake place. -
Demi: " Well….I'm not…..And while you're here, you should get a cupcake….On me of course. " - I smiled as she I followed her towards the selections. -
Jacob: " OOOOOOOH, M&Ms cupcake!? Reallly? " - She looked surprised by the excitement in my voice. - " Ha, sorry. My favorite candy. "
She giggled some, as she took one out. Handing it to me, I smiled big. Feeling like a kid at his birthday.
Demi: " Not judging you at all. " - Throwing up her hands laughing. - " Well as you can see, this is waaaay more laid back then the music I do. I wrote a new piece today, called Skyscrapper. "
Jacob: " Cant wait to hear it whenever you decide to put the music to it. " - She leaned over the countertop, I started to eat the cupcake. - " You made this one? "
Demi: - She nodded her head, smiling at me. - " Surely did. "
I started to chew, making faces. As I started to gag, bringing my hand up to my throat.
Jacob: " W…..W…….Wa….Water……Aguuuuua….." - I smiled at her, she rolled her eyes. -
Demi: " That was not funny, jerk. " - Folding her arms, as she turned her back to me. - " I'm not talking or looking at you for 10 minutes. " - Her curly hair bounced as she shook her head from side to side. -
Jacob: " Demi, really? Awwww it was just a joke….." - I said leaning over the counter top, tapping her on her shoulder. - " Hello…..Heeeeeelllo, HOOOOOOLAAAAA…..Demi…….Come ooooooooon, ayyyyyyyyyyy!? "
She continued to ignore me, as she turned her head. Looking at me. Flashing a smile, then sticking out her tongue. I rolled my eyes, she brought her finger to my face. Placing a little blob of icing on my nose, as she smeared it.
Demi: " Hmmm, we're even now. Jacob the green nose Reindeer. " - I wiggled my nose, scrunching it up some. As she laughed, looking at me in my eyes. - " Green is your favorite color after all, right? "
Jacob: " Si, it is. " - I smiled at her, dipping my finger in my cupcake, bringing my finger up to her face. Smearing the icing on her cheek. - " I guess we're even now? Oh wait thats 2 points for me, right? "
Demi: " Ohhh is this a challenge, you will be defeated Jacob. " - She spun around quickly, turning back around, holding an icing bag in her hand, pointing it at me. -
Jacob: " You don't have the gu-" - Before I could finished, my face got covered with icing. her laugh was beyond cute. I licked my lips, tasting the icing. Shaking my head. -
Demi: " Oh my gosh, Jacob. " - Her laughed continue. - " Say cheese! " - She said as I flashed a smile, with my eyes closed. She came around the counter, as she stood next to me. Taking another picture. -
Jacob: - I rubbed my cheek against her forehead, smearing the icing. - " NAH! Take that! " - I said with a laugh, she laughed back, looking up at me.-
We joked around for a bit more, starting to cleaning up. I sat there, as she wiped off the icing from my face with a towel, standing between my legs. I looked up at her, as she stared back into my eyes. I wrapped my arms around her, as she smiled. Running her fingers through my wet curls.
Demi: " Good thing this is a family owned business or I would be fired…." - Her soft tender voice brought a smile to my face. -
Jacob: " I know right. " - I smiled up at her, closing my eyes. She ran the towel over my face one last time. -
Demi: " All done Tiger. " - I opened one eye, looking at her. She grabbed my cheek softly, squeezing it. -
Jacob: " Aren't you the best cupcake cleaner ever. " - I stuck my tongue out at her, smiling big. - " A beautiful one at that…." - I said lowly. -
Demi: " You think I'm beautiful? " - She asked, kind of in a shocked way. -
Jacob: " No doubt about it, you truly are……" - She looked away. - " What? Somethings wrong? "
Demi: " No guy has ever told me this before……And meant it…You don't know how many times I stared in the mirror…Wondering whats wrong….." - I could see the tears forming in her eyes, I stood up. Embracing her in my arms. -
I didn't say anything, I just held her. I heard her sniff, as she buried her face into my shirt. I tightened my arms around her, rubbing on her back. Resting my chin on her head, rocking from side to side. Saying lowly and softly how beautiful she truly her. How gorgeous her smile was.
I knew how it felt. To feel this way, to feel unwanted. Wondering what was wrong. Being teased, made fun of. I sniffed, as I felt her hand rub up and down my back. Her tears soaked my shirt, I didn't care though.
She stopped as she looked up at me, sniffing. As she wiped the tears from her eyes. I smiled back, bringing my hand up to her cheek. Placing my hand on it, rubbing her cheek softly with my thumb. She placed her hand on my arm, smiling back up at me. She mouthed the words, Thank You.
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* Craig POV *
Focusing on the screen, mushing down the buttons. Looking out the corner of my eye, seeing Roderick. His big goofy grin was all over his face. He was in the lead by 7 points. I reached over, slapping the controller out of his hand, laughing.
Roderick: " DUDE! " - He yelled out, as he scurried to get the controller. I scored a touchdown, he rushed back looking at me. - " That does not count……"
Craig: " Awwww Wodewick mad? " - I laughed making a baby voice at him. - " Now as many times as you popped the controller out of my hand. I know you aint butt hurt. "
Roderick: " Please, don't even get me started…." - Smirking at me, I smirked back. -
Craig: " Ya ya ya, whatever. " - I laughed, scoring the field goal. Looking at him, he rolled his eyes. -
The game came to an end, we both sat there. Flipping through the channels on the tv. Trying to find something to do, we've been playing Madden on and off for the longest. I looked over at him.
Craig: " You know you do-" - He cut me off. -
Roderick: " I know I don't have to be here, but I'm here. So shut it up. " - He looked at me, raising his brows. - " You're my boy, cant let you sit here and be bored all day. If you're bored, I'm bored. " - Beating on his chest softly with his fist. -
Craig: " Hard headed…..Whatever…." - Facing the tv, I looked over at him. - " Thanks though. "
Roderick: " Anytime. " - He said nodding his head. - " Now I am hungry, I know you're hungry too. " - He reached over, hitting me in the chest. -
Craig: - I rubbed my chest, looking at him. - " I actually am. " - Looking over at the two boxes of pizzas we had earlier. - " Chinese? " -
Roderick: " You read my mind, we should just go. I'll drive. " - Without a response he got up, grabbing his keys. Looking at me. - " Well hurry up, don't have all day. You don't wont to see me when I'm hungry. "
I rolled my eyes, pulling on my coat and beanie, grabbing my crutches as I followed Roderick to his car. He drove off, towards this chinese buffet. I sat at the table, as he fixed my plate.
Embarrassed was how I felt. I couldn't wait for this to end, to get off of these crutches. Do things on my own. Stop depending on everyone. I couldn't even fix my own plate, all because of her. My nose flared up, thinking about it pissed me off. How she tried to ruin everything between Keke and I. I couldn't stand her, I never disliked someone as much as her.
I snapped out of it when Roderick put the two plates down in front of me. I sighed lowly, looking down. Closing my eyes, pretending like I was praying.
Roderick: " I hope thats enough. " - He said once I lifted my head back up. - " I mean if it's not. I can go grab you some more. "
Craig: " This should be good……Thanks Bro…." - I said, taking off my shades. As we both started to eat. -
Roderick: " That big 17 coming up, you're getting old as dirt. " - He said with a laugh, I shook my head. - " Its all good though, we wont treat you any different. "
Craig: " You're so dumb Roderick. " - Laughing as he smirked. -
Roderick: " Any idea what you're going to do? " - He looked at me. - " It is what? A few days away? " - He started to count on his fingers, looking confused. -
Craig: " Today is December 20th, 6 days Rod. Just 6 more days. " - He looked at me, nodding his head. -
Roderick: " Oh yah, that many days. " -He laughed loudly. I shook my head, eating my food. -
I cleaned about 5 plates. Sitting back in the chair, best food ever. I pulled out my phone, texting Keke to see what she was up too. I smiled from her reply, blushing a bit. As I cleared my throat, putting back on my serious face.
Roderick: " I don't understand, you eat so much but you gain no weight. " - He sighed heavily. - " Not fair, if I go on a eating spree I gain it instantly. I weigh like 220 right now, I was 210 not to long ago"
Craig: " Well you're the big football player, suck it up. "
Roderick: - He laughed, as he dropped the fork in his plate. - " I'm stuffed…….Ugh…." - Slouching back in his chair. - " Coach is going to bed pissed when next semester kicks in….."
Craig: - I shook my head.- " Dude you worry and over react, to young to be so concerned and upset with your weight or whatever….."
Roderick: " I need to be more smart and watch what I eat….If I want to get drafted I need to be on top of it….." - He looked at me. - " To be able to provide for the little one….."
He was right, he had his mind set and made up. Nothing would distract that. One thing about him, he never gave up. It made me smile, he was thinking ahead. Planning out his future.
Craig: " Whats next on the agenda Bro? " - Picking up my crutches, standing up. He stood up stretching, as we walked towards the door. - " I bet these people are mad at us. "
We gave them a run for their money again. Roderick and I came here often, they knew us. So of course they put out extra food. I felt my phone vibrate, getting a text from Ray.
Craig: " Welp, people are gathering at Diggy's house for game night. We could pass through? " - I asked looking at him. -
Roderick: " Word, sounds fun. So I can murder all y'all fools in it. "
Craig: " Dude, don't even embarrass yourself. " - He bumped into me, as I glared at him. - " You did that on purpose. "
Roderick: " Did what? " - Smirking at me, walking towards his new charger he got. - " Stop being so clumsy, dang. "
Craig: " You just wait till I get off of these crutches….." - I gave him a serious look, then cracked a smile at him. -
He cranked the engine up to his car, driving off towards the store. We decided to pick up some snacks for later on tonight.
I wonder what my girl was up too. I missed her, a lot. It seems like forever since I've been away from her. Since I've felt her presence, her lips against mines. I sighed softly, looking out the window.
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* Zendaya POV *
Roshon sat across from me, reading over the acceptation letter, from Gifted Heights Academy.
Roshon: "….Roshon Fegan you have been accepted into Gifted Heights Academy, we welcome you….." - He read out loud, looking at me with a big smile on his face. -
Zendaya: " Congrats big brother. " - I said to him, smiling. - " Going for music or dancing? "
Roshon: " Music of course, this will look good when I apply for Full Sail once I graduate….." -
We sat in his Dad's living. His father was much nicer, he treated me like i was his own daughter. I still don't know the full story of why my mom and him divorced. Roshon's dad was a musician. He traveled a lot, Roshon mostly stayed on the road with his dad.
Roshon: " I cant wait to walk through those halls, a Senior. AYYYYY! " - I laughed at him as he smiled big, nodding his head. - " The ladies wont be able to handle this face. "
Zendaya: " I know right, they'll be running away. OOOOOOOH, yah I went there. " - He narrowed his eyebrows at me, shaking his head. -
Roshon: " Thats messed up. " - The low words came from his mouth. -
Zendaya: " Oh Ro man up. " - I got up from the couch, grabbing my purse. - " Well I'm going shopping with Dionne. I need to buy you a gift…."
Roshon: - His eyes seemed to twinkle, as he smiled. - " Ooooh word, gift cards! "
A horn came from outside, I looked at him. He smiled, I smiled back hugging him. He walked me outside towards Dionne's car. I got into the passenger side.
Roshon: - He knocked on the glass, I rolled down the window. - " Now make sure my sister comes back in one piece, iight? " - He said to her with a smile. -
Dionne: " I will do just that for you…" - She smiled at him, as he nodded walking away. - " Girl, your brother is beyond sexy. "
Zendaya: - I whipped my head, looking at her. Making a gross face. - " Ewww, Dionne. No. " - I laughed, I knew Roshon wasn't ugly. Just the thought of her crushing on him. -
I caught her glance, she bite her bottom lip. Watching him walk towards the door, going inside. I smacked my lips, looking at her. She looked back at me. Throwing her hands up laughing, as she reversed the car.
Zendaya: " I cant believe you have a crush on Ro. " - I laughed shaking my head, we' drove around for about 15 minutes. -
Dionne: " He's cute, he's cute. I don't hide things. " - Rolling her eyes. - " Besides, since he's your brother. He's a good kid. Right? "
She was right. We walked into the mall, I looked at my watch. 5:49 pm. Ray and I texted on and off through out day. Walking beside each other, passing up a crowd of peep. I had no idea what to get Roshon. Maybe a giftcard would work.
Zendaya: " I'm going to need for you to stop lusting over Roshon." - Of course I was joking, she looked at me. Rolling her eyes. -
Dionne: " What? He's cute with his baby face...." - She picked up a shirt, looking at it. - " Besides, you don't won't any h*es trying to get with him at GHA....."
Zendaya: " True....." - Looking through the clothes, seeing a cute cream sweater. - " Then again, you're a bad girl yourself. " - Winking at her playfully. She smirked. -
Dionne: " Excuse me? You ma'am are not that far behind. " - Pointing her finger at me, running her fingers through her hair. - " Mrs. Smith...."
Zendaya: " Speaking of him, he finally told me....Some things....Not all...." - She paused, looking at me then back at the clothes.-
Dionne: " Nice....And....? " - She asked, waiting for my responses. - " You know, don't even worry. As long as you two are happy. " - Dionne continued to search through the rack of clothes. -
Zendaya: - I shrugged my shoulders, looking through them. - " I know he isn't perfect....But he's trying, and I'm supporting him through this....."
Dionne: " That's all that matters right? " - A smile appeared on her face. - " I'm glad you two have each other. "
Hearing this made me smile. She knew more about Ray's past then me, so hearing this put me at ease. Maybe that's why she keeps me close. To make sure nothing happened. After all, this Ross guy knew not to mess with her or her family. Or her close friends.
Dionne: " Now love, shall we get going? I want to go look at somethings. " - Placing her hands on her hips, tugging at her coat. -
Zendaya: " Sure, need to get Ro something. I should show you his style, just in case....
Dionne: " Just in case what......?" - Her eyes widen, as a smile formed on her face. -
Zendaya: " Juuuuust in case you decide to buy him something, dang. " - I laughed some, as she shook her head. Walking away from me.-
Dionne: - She looked back at me, showing her teeth with her smile. - " You need to quit...."- Her boots clicked away on the tile floor, I trailed behind her laughing.-
Making our way through the crowd, we headed out. Bags in our hands. Walking towards her car, huddled up. Our laughs and smiles faded, seeing someone leaned up against her car. She pushed me behind her. She was shorter then I was.
Dionne: " Need help with something? " - The guy looked up, I turned my head. Looking down at the ground, trying to hide my face with my hair. -
?: " Oh nothing, just dropped by to say hello.....Ross says he misses Loon...." - A chuckle escaped his mouth. - " No need to hide, Zendaya....."
My heart stopped, I clinched at the bags in my hands. My face still hiding behind my hair.
Dionne: " Leave her out of this.....Or else I will contact my uncle...." - Even though I wasn't looking, I could tell she gave him the death stare.-
?: - He laughed, his footsteps seemed heavy. As he approached us. - " Uncle isn't always going to be here to protect you....And your little friends....." - He brought his hand to my chin, lifting it up. Staring into my eyes.- " Hm...Pretty girl.....Mixed up in the wrong crowd....."
Dionne: - She slapped his hand away, as she reached inside of her purse quickly. Pulling out something, as she brought it up to his throat.- " Back the f*ck up or I will blow d*mn a hole in your throat......" - Fear over took his face, as a smile appeared on his face.-
?: " Hmph.....Don't worry, I'll be seeing the two of you soon....." - Walking backwards, winking at me. His figure seemed to vanish as he walked into the dark.-
I sighed with relief, Dionne grabbed me by my arm pulling me towards the car, unlocking it. She let out a big sigh, as tears rolled down my cheek.
Dionne: " You cannot mention this to Ray....." - Turning the car on, she looked over at me.-
Zendaya: " Why, I don't want them after him..." - Emotions started to take over. - " I....I...I don't know what to do, Dionne we have to tell Ra-"
Dionne: " NO! " - She yelled out. - " He'll just go after them, which will create more stuff.....YOU CANNOT TELL HIM! " - Her voice echoed in the car, as the car drew silent.-
Everything was silent. I looked straight ahead. They knew my name, they knew what I looked like. I felt the tear as I wiped it away. Sniffing, Dionne looked ahead. As she pulled out her phone.
Dionne: - She cleared her throat, speaking into it.- " Hello dearest uncle....." - Her eyes darted around, as she turned the car. - " Yes.....Protection, for all of us.....Ray.....His girlfriend....Her name is Zendaya.....Her family also may need it......"
I leaned my head against the cold glass, my breath fogged it up. Listening to her conversation. She ended it, as she looked over at me. Placing her hand on my knee, smiling at me. I tried to smile back, but couldn't. My so called perfect life was going down the drain, even more.
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* Keke POV*
Tinashe and I sat in Jasmine's living room. Across from her, I could tell she was unhappy. She forced a smile on her face. Taking a sip from my coco her mom offered us.
Keke: " We just stopped by, you haven't called or texted us….Sorry for dropping by without notice…." - I said to her as she smiled, shaking her head. -
Jasmine: " Its fine….Just been busy, thats all….Keeping Him off of my mind…."
By Him she meant Jacob. Or was it her old boyfriend she was referring to. Either way she didn't seem happy. She seemed so zoned out. Spacey.
Keke: " Oh i understand….." - I hated seeing her like this, I glanced over at Tinashe.-
Tinashe: " We're here for you girl, so don't hesitate to text or call….You know we miss you. " - Tinashe smiled at her, as Jasmine smiled back. Nodding her head. The door swung open, I guess this was the guy. The guy from Winter Formal.-
Jasmine: - She looked at him, then at us. - "You meet Keke, Tinashe before I believe…But…This is Jinsu….." - The words were dry, I sensed a bit of hate in the words. -
Jinsu: - He looked at us, then at her. - " I brought you something….."
Tinashe: - She jerked her head back, looking at him. Giving him a stank look. - " Excuse me? H E L L O to you as well. Hola. Manners? "
Jinsu: - He looked at her, then at me. - " Who are these two? " - Folding his arms. -
Jasmine: " Friends….." - She looked at us, smiling. - " Jinsu has a serious sense of humor…." - She took a sip from her coco, placing it on the table. -
Tinashe: " Please….." - She rolled her eyes at him, I placed my hand on her knee. -
Keke: " Well its nice to meet you Jinsu……." - I forced a smile at him. -
Jinsu: " Oh you must be the pregnant friend. Wow, knocked up at such a young age…." - Jasmine eyes got big, so did mines. -
Tinashe: - She placed her mug down, looking at Jinsu. - " If you think I will sit here and take sh*t from you, you're wrong. You sh*t on a stick……"
Jinsu: - He chuckled some. - " What? I just hope you and your baby daddy don't end up on welfare…..I mean please, come on…."
Jasmine stood up, looking at him. He looked at her, frowning. She looked at us.
Jasmine: " Jinsu stop it, they're my friends…..Stop it….." - Her voice was so weak, so not Jasmine. -
Keke: " You know, we'll just leave….." - I said getting up, grabbing my coat and scarf. - " No need to be somewhere unwanted……"
Tinashe: - She got up, grabbing her coat, putting it on. - " Yes, before I have to rip out his voicebox……" - Saying it loud enough for him to hear. -
Jinsu: " You should learn how to be like your friend. " - Directing it to Tinashe as he pointed at me. - " I see her man has her under control, she knows her place. "
Rage rushed through my veins. I cocked my head to the side, looking at him. Biting my lip, as I smiled some.
Keke: " Please, a real man loves and cherishes a woman…..Not sit there and control them…." - I looked him up a down, smiling still. - " I'm looking at a coward….A p*ssy a*s wanna be……You don't know me….You don't know her…." - I pointed at Tinashe. - " You might want to keep those soft threats to yourself……."
He stared at me, his smile faded away. I walked towards the door with Tinashe. Looking at Jasmine, she stared at the ground. Not even bothering to look into our direction. I opened the door myself, as Tinashe and I headed towards the car. We heard yelling and screaming. I closed my eyes, breathing in deeply.
Tinashe: - She turned around, as I grabbed her arm. - " What? We need to do something! " - Her voice cracked from the emotions. -
Keke: - I shook my head, no. - " We…..We cant….She has to deal with this…..She's allowing it….I hate to say this….." - Tears rolled from my eyes, Tinashe sucked in her bottom lip.-
Her big cat shaped eyes, were even bigger. As she brought her hand up to her mouth, walking towards the car ahead of me. I followed, looking back at the house. Snow fell from the sky, as we both sat in the car waiting for it to warm.
Nothing was said. I honestly didn't know what to say. Many thoughts raced through my mind. I backed the car out of the driveway. Looking through the rearview mirror. Back towards her house, I had no idea on what was going on in there.
The whole ride was quiet, our sniffles were the only noise. I didn't bother to turn on any music. We pulled up at Diggy's house. A few people were gathering here to chill. We walked up to the door, ranging the doorbell. Diggy answered, his smile faded some.
Diggy: " You two……Okay? " - He asked, stepping back to let us in. -
Keke: " We're……Fine….." - I said lowly, he lead us to the entertainment room. -
Laughter and noise could be heard from the room as we approached it. I looked around the room. Zonnique and Jacob were on the kinect, playing The Michael Jackson Experience. Issa sat between Bahja and Breaunna on the couch to the far right. Ray sat on the floor besides Zendaya, her nose was red and eyes were puffy. Dionne seemed rather annoyed by Jawan as the two stood by the bar.
I spotted Craig, he was all smiles. His smile faded when he saw my face. Roderick turned around waving big as his big smile turned into a concerned look. He helped Craig as the two rushed over to us.
Roderick: - He embraced Tinashe, as she wrapped her arms around him. - " Babe, whats wrong!? " - He said loudly, everyone seemed to quiet down. As their attention focused on us. -
Craig: - He motioned for us to step outside of the room. He looked me in my eyes. - " Ke…..What happened? Are you ok? " - He brought his warm hand up to my cheek, rubbing it. -
Keke: - I nodded my head, looking away then back into his eyes. - " Yes……."
Craig: " Don't lie…….To me Lauren……." - His voice was stern but caring, he brought his forehead to mine, pressing it against his. Looking into my eyes. - " Please…..Its hurting me, I've never seen you so upset before….."
I explained to him, most of it. I left out a few things. He stood there, nodding his head. His nose flared up some, as he looked down at the ground. Then up at me. He was pissed. Roderick leaned against the wall, looking at us. As he hugged onto Tinashe.
Craig: " I don't care if I'm on crutches, no one talks to you like that. " - He wrapped his arms around me, pulling me on. - " Imma show his a*s……."
Roderick: " I'll coach you through, I cant fight unless its in a ring….." -He smacked his lips, Craig shook his head. -
Ray: - He poked his head out the room. - " Y'all good? " - He asked with a smile on his face. -
Craig: " We cool….." - Replying back to Ray, he nuzzled my neck which made me giggle some. - " We're fine….Right….? " - He asked looking into my eyes. -
I nodded my head, looking back into his eyes. He smiled, kissing my cheek. I looked over towards Tinashe and Roderick. She smiled at me, as he rubbed on her back. Kissing her forehead.
We all walked back into the room, I sat next to Craig. Talking to him. As I held his hand. He scooted me closed to him, I laid my head on his shoulder. Watching Ray and Jawan on the game. I sighed softly, feeling his hand wrap around my stomach.
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* Roderick POV *
~ 2nd Day of Christmas ~
Right, left, right, left. I swung, hitting the punching bag. Sweat dripped from my face. Many thoughts ran though my head. Life, school, Tinashe, the baby, my career. I give it one last punch, breathing heavily. I took off the gloves, grabbing my towel and water bottle.
The gym was getting ready to close, I spent about 2 hours in here. Clearing my head and getting my daily work out in. It was 7:36pm after all.
I left the gym after I freshened up. Throwing on my gray sweat pants and thick hoodie. I got into my car, driving off. Stopping by to pick up Tinashe. Knocking on the door softly, she opened it. Letting me in.
Tinashe: " Roderick, are you trying to get sick? Its to cold and you barely have on anything warm. " - Giving me a serious look. -
Roderick: " I'm fine, trust meeee. " - Sitting on the couch, She sat down next to me. As I wrapped my arms around her. - " You ready? " - I asked her. -
Tinashe: " Yep, can we please stop by your house so you can change into something warm….I really don't wont you to get sick….."
Roderick: - I gave in, nodding my head. - " Yes…..Lets leave before we're late…."- I helped her put on her coat. As we headed out the door. She locked up the house. -
Once home I changed. She sat on my bed, as I walked into the room. Smiling at her, looking at the time. We were going to be late. Like always. I laughed some.
Roderick: " Ready? Dinner and a moooovie, dinner and a moooovie. " - I sung two stepping some, as she laughed. -
Tinashe: " Yes lets go, they're already blowing up my phone. I think they have a table already. " - We left out the house, driving towards the restaurant. -
My arm was wrapped around her waist. The 6 of them sat at the table. I smiled waving at them. Like it was our first time seeing each other in years. I pulled out Tinashe's chair, as she sat next to Demi and across from Keke. I sat across from Craig. I spoke to everyone, flipping through the menu.
Jacob: - He laughed some, as he leaned over. Whispering into Demi's ear. - " Soooo guys, what movie are we seeing tonight? " - He asked, directing his question to Keke and Craig. -
Keke: - She looked at Craig, then back at Jacob. Telling him. - " Heard its a good movie. "
Zendaya: - She sat between Ray and Keke, sitting across from Demi. - " Oh I heard that movie is really good….."
Ray: " As long as it isn't boring. I'm good. " - Shrugging his shoulder, as he took a sip from his drink. He cut his eyes towards Jacob. -
Those two still aren't the best of buds. Usually throwing slick comments towards each other, like the rest of us didn't catch on.
I thought it would've been awkward. With Demi here, but it really wasn't. She was really chill and relaxed. Besides her and Tinashe were friends. They went back to pre-k from what Tinashe told me. Demi moved freshmen year due to her father being in the service. She recently moved back into town.
The food arrived, we talked amongst each other.
Ray: - He looked up from his plate of food, then at Zendaya. - " Oh I saw Jasmine yesterday, at the mall….She looked pretty upset and hurt…" - He said it low but loud enough for our ears. -
Zendaya: " Oh……" - She simply responded. -
Jacob: - He cleared his throat. - " Who's ready for some dessert? I am. " - A fake laugh came from him as he grabbed the menu. -
Ray: " Do you even care? " - He stared across the table at Jacob. -
Jacob: - Still looking at the menu.- " Why don't you mind your business…." - He said, not looking away from his menu. -
Ray: " She's a friend….More of a friend then you….." - Jacob closed the menu, looking at Ray. -
Jacob: " Has Zendaya ever kicked you out….Ignored you…..Let her mom, dad, or ex boyfriend talk badly about you in front of your face….Not standing up for you…..Has Zendaya ever left you out in the cold…." - He paused, shaking his head. Looking dead into Ray's eyes. - " Has Zendaya ever ripped your heart out, tossing it into a pit with tiny glass shards…..Don't sit here and make me look like I'm the bad guy……"
He leaned across the table, frowning at Ray. Tinashe placed her hand over mines, squeezing it.
Ray: " Have you stopped, to think….Maybe she doesn't have a choice….Maybe she wants to be with you, but she cant stand up for herself…Or you….." - He replied back in a soft tone. -
Jacob: - He gave it thought. - " Oh believe me, I stopped and gave it thought…..Love doesn't have boundaries….You should fight for your love…." - He took a sip from his drink. - "…..You should be the last person to come at me twisted….."
Ray: - He raised a brow. Craig sighed heavily, shaking his head. - " It doesn't even matter. You're just this stuck up pretty boy. You and Jinsu seem to be a like, only you hide your b*tch a*sness behind those shades and that fro……"
People around our table were ease dropping. I brought my hand to my face, covering my lips, resting my elbow on the table. These two never had a fun moment. I looked over at Keke, who shook her head. Rolling her eyes.
Jacob: " Don't compare me to him……" - His voice seemed more like a snarl. -
Ray: " I'm done, you don't care about Jasmine. Whenever she was there for you, remember? That night when Lucy blasted your a*s, now you wont be there for her?"
Jacob: - He slammed his fist on the table, making the items shake. - " Oh my gosh, Ray just shut the f*ck up and mind your owns! " - He said loudly, as we all shushed him. -
Demi: - She cleared her throat, looking at Ray. - " If you think Jacob and I, are dating. Fooling around or whatever…..We're not. " - She looked around the table at us. - " I'm friends with Jacob and Tinashe….." - She said placing a hand on Tinashe's shoulder. - " Can we all enjoy the rest of the night, without all this arguing? "
Keke: - She wiped her hands with her napkin. -" Girl where have you been all my night, I'm usually the one stopping these two from fighting. " - We laughed some.-
Craig: " Now, can we actually order some dessert….I'm craving something….." - He said rubbing the side of his face, scrunching up his forehead. -
Roderick: " When aren't you hungry…." - I said lowly, as he shoot me a look. -
Craig: " Better watch it……." - He fired back. -
Roderick: " Or else what limpy? " - He made a surprised face, I made a face at him.-
Tinashe: " Roderick, that wasn't very nice. " - I felt her pinch my arm, as I jumped some. Rubbing my arm. -
We all finished up, as we got up to leave. Walking towards the theater that was right across the street from the restaurant. I huddled up with Tinashe, keeping her warm. As I rubbed on her stomach some. Smiling big to myself.
Once inside, I looked around at the snack menu. Rubbing my hands together. Craig was one step ahead of me, as he and Keke made their way over. I started to push Tinashe playfully from behind.
Jacob and Demi walked over towards the little arcade. Playing a quick game of air hockey. I focused my attention back on the menu, all I really wanted was some gummy bears. Maybe an ice-e.
Ray and Zendaya stood by the ticket collector, waiting for the 6 of us. They both seemed to be in a conversation. I sure wish i knew how to read lips well.
I got my ice-e and my gummy bears, as we started to head towards our seats. Sitting all the way at the top in the middle. I lifted the arm rest up, between Craig and I. I wrapped my arms around his stomach playfully. Laying my head on his shoulder.
Roderick: " Oh Craig, you have the most beautifulest ears ever, they just soooo big. " - Mocking Keke's voice, he yelled some as he started to push my head away. -
Craig: " WHAT THE! AY NO! " - He laughed, as I held on tighter. - " Tinashe, get chu man! " - I let go of him, as he fixed his shirt. - " Don't be making fun of my baby. "
Roderick: - I let out a loud laugh as people started to shush me. - " Ay, don't be shushing me. I'm trying to get my mack on….." - I said looking around the theater, as a few laughed. -
Tinashe: - She had her face covered with her hands, shaking her head. - " I cant believe you're doing this hereeee…."- She laughed, looking me in the eyes. -
The lights started to dim, as the screen stretched out some. I scooted closer to Tinashe, wrapping my arm around her. She brought a gummy bear up to my mouth, I ate it from her. I felt her finger against my bottom lip, as I sucked on her finger some.
I slouched in my seat, putting my head on her shoulder. She laid her head onto of mines, bringing my hand up to her stomach. I rubbed it softly and slowly, smiling to myself. As the previous started up.
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* Jacob POV *
I reached my arm over, wrapping it around her shoulder. She looked at me as I smiled at her. She smiled back, focusing back on the movie. It came to an end, as we all walked back to our cars. Laughing and talking.
Jacob: " So where to next? The night is still young…" - Looking at the time, 11:36pm. - " How about my place? No punking out. "
Everyone nodded and agreed, except for Ray. I looked his way.
Ray: " Nah…..I'm good, I doubt that offer was intended for me anyway. " - Shrugging his shoulders. -
Jacob: - I felt bad, looking at the others. Then back at him. - " No seriously, come on. Its cool, all jokes aside. " - I said extending my hand towards him. -
Ray: - He looked it as he shook it. - " Iight, I guess so. "
There was no argument about that. We all headed towards my place. I had the house to myself, my mom was out of town for a few days before Christmas due to work.
Once inside, we all sit around in a circle. A bottle of Grey Goose sat in the middle with a few shot glasses. I smiled shuffling the cards, looking at them. Of course Tinashe couldn't play. Explaining to them the rules of Captain DickHead.
Jacob: " Ok sooooo basically….." - I said clearing my throat. - " We make up rules for each card…..If you pull an ace you are Captain Dickhead, meaning you don't have to take a drink until someone else pulls an ace you will remain Captain Dickhead….."
I pulled a Queen from the deck, showing them.
Jacob: " The person who picks this one, makes up a rule….So like say…." - I said looking around the circle. - " If Craig picks, and he says " Everyone has to take a shot, " well….Everyone has to take a shot….Or he can make a rule like no body can curse, if you curse you take a shot….Until someone pulls a Queen the rule stands….."
Craig: - He smirked rubbing his hands together, looking at everyone. - " Its going down….Anything else? " - He asked. -
Jacob: " If you pull a 5, you have to busta rhyme. Meaning you have to rap for about 10 seconds. If you pause, you take a shot. " - I smiled, as Ray smirked. - " If you pull a Jack, its called categories. Its like concentration. Like sports, you keep saying different sports. If a person makes up, they take a shot. "
I explained the rest of the rules. If anyone pulled a 2, the person who drew the card picks someone to take a shot. If its a 3, the person who drew the card takes a shot. 4 means all the ladies have to take a shot, 6 meant all the fellas had to drink. 7 Meant heaven, which means no one drinks. 8 Meant you had to pair up for a person of the opposite gender and drink. 9 meant everyone drinks.
Jacob: " So those are the rules, simple. Easy? " - The others sat there, shrugging as I pulled the first card. Smiling picking up a 3. - " Bottoms up. " - I said taking the shot like a mine, it burnt a bit as I scrunched up my face. - " Ahhhhhh. "
Craig: - He laughed as he was up next, pulling a card. Showing it as an Ace. He smiled. - " Oh like I said, its going down…..Any dudes, with long hair. Has to take a shot on their turn to pull a card……Until someone else pulls an Ace…" - He smirked, as Roc made a surprise face and Ray shrugged his shoulders. -
The game continued on throughout the night. The clock read 1:44am. I smiled, looking around the circle. Taking a shot since I couldn't busta rhyme.
Jacob: " Nooooooo, thats noooot faaaaaair ughhhh. " - I said loudly, covering my face. -
Keke: - She busted out laughing, as she sat under Craig. - " Oh my gosh, I cannot deal with Jacob….Anymore…." - She said in-between giggles. -
Craig: - He rubbed his hand up and down her leg, kissing on her cheek then her neck. - " Ke……Keeeeee……..Baaaaaaae……Keeeeeeeeeeeee….." - He said getting a bit louder.- " I'm getting h*rny…." -He attempted to whisper. -
Demi: - She walked back from the bathroom, stumbling a bit. As she snickered, Keke looked at her and the two started to giggle. - " I sweaaaaar I got lost coming back, I was like, Oooooh sh*t where am I, where is everyone…But then….Wait what am I even saying…..? " - She said covering her mouth laughing, she sat back down beside me. -
Zendaya: - She was leaned up against Ray. - "……No……No more…." - The words came from her mouth. She barely had anything to drink and was totally wasted. -
Ray: - He smirked his lip, downing her shot. As he looked at Craig, frowning up some. - " Bruh, you got a big a*s forehead. Like real sh*t, dude. " - He said as Keke, looked at Craig and busted out laughing. -
Keke: " Hahahaha, oh my gosh. Craig, you really do….Waaaaax on, waaaax off. " - She said rubbing his forehead with her thumb. -
Craig: - He scrunched up his forehead, covering it up some. - " Whatever yo, I aint worried about any of y'all haaaaaters. "
Roderick: - He sat between Tinashe's legs. He was more aware then the rest of us. - " This stuff burns my throat…." - Rubbing his throat, looking up at her. -
Tinashe: " Well maybe you shouldn't drink anymore? " - She offered, as she took the shot glass from him. -
Keke: " Where's the…..Bathroom? " - She asked, standing up as she wobbled some. I was about to answer until Demi jumped up first. -
Demi: " Whoooa, shouldn't do that…..I'll show you…." - She said reaching out her hand, the two walked together. Stumbling and giggling loudly down the hall. We heard a loud thump. - " SORRY WE RAN INTO THE DOOR! " - Demi yelled out, we Keke loud laughter. -
Ray: - He took another shot, as he looked at me. - " You know, I didn't like you. I think I still don't, but you seem cool…..For now…."
Jacob: - I didn't bother to care what he said, I was in my zone. Shrugging my shoulder. - " Whatever Ray….."
The two came back, chatting the whole way back. Keke plopped herself back down on the couch next to Craig. As he went in for a kiss, she kissed him back. His hand slipped up her shirt, she laughed. Holding onto his hand.
Demi came besides me, as she leaned against me. I smiled, nudging her softly. She smiled back. Hugging onto me. I guess the game was officially over with. Ray laid Zendaya down on the couch, as he sat on the floor besides the couch. Looking into the space. Roderick and Tinashe were cuddled up on the love seat, she sat on his lap.
I remember, cuddling up with Demi. I woke up the next morning. My head pounded a bit, I wiped my eyes. Feeling her body next to mines, I smiled. She moaned softly, I guess my movement disrupted her slumber. I looked around the living room. Seeing the other 4. Wait it was suppose to be 6, I sniffed the air. Smelling food.
I walked towards the kitchen, seeing Keke and Caig. Craig had his head laying against the marble countertop. While Keke was up cooking, she turned around. Smiling some, still looking sleepy. More like a mild hangover.
Keke: " Morning……" - She whispered, focusing her attention back on the food. I walked over slowly, patting Craig on the shoulder softly. Seeing the eggs, bacon and pancakes. -
Jacob: " Mmmmm, morning guys…." - I said back to them, as Craig sat up some, still looking sleepy. -
Everyone soon followed to wake up. Tinashe and Roderick cleaned up the living room. While Demi was in the bathroom with Zendaya, who was puking up her guts. Ray sat at the counter with Craig, who seemed perfectly fine.
We all enjoyed the breakfast, as phones started to go off. We started to plan lies and such. To escape the trouble. Keke said she spent the night over at Tinashe's. While Craig and Roderick crashed over with me. Demi used the same excuse as Keke.
They all left, the girls headed to Tinashe's to change. Her parents were at work, while the boys stayed at my place. They all freshened up, staying for a bit as we all talked and goofed up. Trying to get over our little hangovers.
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* Dionne POV *
~ 3rd Day of Christmas ~
~ Morning ~
I stood there, looking at my uncle. Smiling at him, as he smiled back. I finished up what I came to do. I was escorted out of the building by his men, going towards my car. I started up the engine, leaving from the place.
Everything was taken care of. Hopefully, my uncle never failed me then. So why would he now? They were going after an innocent girl after all. And the threat they made seem legit. I looked into my purse, seeing my protection.
Driving to my next destination, I stood there. Waiting, as he showed up. I smiled, seeing the smile on his face.
Dionne: " Well very nice to have you join me on this chilly day. " - He smiled, as he looked down. Then up at me. -
Roshon: " Well don't you look beautiful. " - He was rather charming. His smile was adorable, dimples appearing every time he talked or smiled. -
Dionne: " And you look rather handsome yourself. " - We walked inside Starbucks. Grabbing a table, as he sat across from me. -
Roshon: " So…..Whats up? " - He asked, looking at me. - " Time to knock off this act……" - He said putting on a serious look. -
Little did people know, Roshon was tied into this web as well. He just didn't wont his sister to find out or Rayon. Things would be crazy and hectic if things were ever to spill out.
Dionne: - I stared into his eyes. As he stared back. - "….They know how your sister looks….Her name…."
Roshon: - He looked at me, letting out a sigh. Licking his plump pink lips. - " And what happened, did you talk to Dre about this? " - Dre meaning my uncle. -
Dionne: " Already covered….Ray doesn't know, I made Zendaya promise not to speak of it……I don't know if she did or didn't….I doubt it cause Ray hasn't blown up my phone….."
Roshon: " They're after Ray, because he f*cked up and didn't get jumped out…." - What he spoke was true, I stirred my tea around with the spoon. Staring at him. -
Dionne: " We know….They see him as a traded because he's around me……They think he's involved with my Uncle……"
Roshon: " So they're targeting Zendaya, because she's close to Ray….And you…."
Dionne: " Pretty much, but don't worry….Uncle is handling this now….."
Roshon: - A smirk over took his face. - " I'm not worried……"
We sat there and talked for about 30 minutes. We simply planned to flirt with each other, in order to keep an eye out for the two of them. Ross knew not to mess with Roshon, he had no idea Zendaya and Roshon were half siblings.
I made my way to the next stop. Getting out of the car, carrying my purse. walking through the crowd of people. I saw him, I remembered his face from the other night. I'm guessing I caught his attention as well, he pointed me out to his friends. The 3 started to make their way towards me. I did the smart thing, as I started to weave in and out of the crowd.
I felt someone grab me, pulling me towards them. I looked, seeing Jawan. I made a surprise face, as he covered my mouth, he wrapped his arms around me, Hiding me behind his body frame.
Jawan: " You still smell good……." - He whispered into my ear, with a mild chuckle. -
Dionne: " Get off of me…." - Pushing him some, as he let go. They were no where to be seen. -
Jawan: " Out by yourself, not smart…" - He said, folding his arms. -
Dionne: " You should be the last to speak……"
Jawan: " Yet I just saved you, thank you would be nice…." - I smiled at him, nodding my head. -
Dionne: " Thank you Jawan, nice to know you were stalking me. " - He covered his mouth, shaking his head. -
Jawan: " Thats cold….Real cold….." - I smiled, pushing him away more. We walked through the crowd of the shopping area. - " Why are you by yourself anyway….."
Dionne: " I'm looking for someone….." - Replying back to him, as I scanned the room. -
I spotted her, her blue eyes darted around. I made my way towards her, as Jawan trailed behind me. She noticed me as she smiled. I smiled back.
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* Zonnique POV *
~ Afternoon ~
I smiled, as he loomed over me. Kissing my lips, I blushed. Kissing him back, giggling some. I sat up, sitting indian style in my bed. He smiled big. Winking at me, I winked back at him playfully.
Jacob L: " Sooooo you ready to go? " - He asked, holding my hand. Rubbing his thumb against it. - " I mean we are meeting Bahja's new boy toy today right? "
Zonnique: " Yes, yes we are. " - Bringing my hand up to his cheek, rubbing on it. - " I'm ready whenever you are. "
Jacob L.: " Well we can leave now then, I mean if you're ready……" - I started to climb out of the bed. Picking up my scarf and beanie, pulling it over my blue hair. Fixing it, he stood behind me. - " No one could ever rock this blue hair like you….."
Zonnique: " Oh stop…." - I said rolling my eyes, as she hugged me from behind. I heard a knock at the door, as my step dad stood there. - " Oh hey Dad. " - I said as Jacob jumped some, moving back. -
Jacob L: " Whats going on Mr. Harris. " - He said nervously, as he looked around the room. -
Dad: " Nothing, checking up on y'all. Be safe out there….And keep your hands off of her like that playboy….." - He smiled at Jacob, being serious as a heart attack. -
I shook my head, grabbing Jacob's hand as I pulled him towards the door. Walking towards his car, getting in. We decided to meet up with the others at the bowling alley. To meet Bahja's new friend.
We spotted them in no time. Who else has pink and purple hair. I smiled waving at them, the bracelets on my arms clanked together.
Bahja: " About time you two showed up. " - She smiled, putting her hands on her hips. -
Breaunna: " Hey Nique, hey Jacob. " - She smiled, as Issa hugged her from behind.- " Since Bahja cant seem to speak now a days. "
Zonnique: " Heeeeeey. "- Smiling at the two and Issa, I watched as a guy walked up. -
Bahja: " Oh Zonnique, Jacob….This is Langston. " - She said as he flashed a quick smile, nodding his head back. - " Langston, Zonnique and Jacob. "
Jacob: " Whats good. " - Jacob responded back, dapping him up. -
Zonnique: " Nice to meet you, he's cute after all Bahja. " - I whispered to her, but loud enough for Breaunna to hear. -
Bahja: " Please, I know this. Look at those lips on him. " - Wrapping her arms around him, he did the same back to her. Hugging her almost. -
She seemed happy. Joyful, she wasn't as snappy and sarcastic before. Seeing this made me smile some.
Issa: " We just gonna stand here? Or y'all ready to get y'all a*sess whooped? " - He said with a cocky smirk over his face. -
Bahja: " Boy please, sit down with that noise. " - Rolling her eyes, we all walked over to our line. Changing into our bowling shoes. - " Boys vs Girls. "
Breaunna: " This will be a breeze. "
Issa: " Girl, you're going to be worried about breaking a nail. "
Zonnique: " Excuse me? Don't doubt us Issa, you'll be surprised…." - I spoke up for Breaunna, she folded her arms. Looking at Issa. -
Langston: " Well forget this talking, lets get it. " - He said walking over to the machine to enter our names. Bahja stood besides him, helping him. Leaning against him. -
Breaunna: " Look at her….." - I smiled, looking, as Jacob hugged me from behind. -
Zonnique: " I know right? Is she in love? " - Issa snickered, as we looked at him. -
Issa: " Y'all know she's like this with every guy, will it last? Thats the question….." - Breaunne smacked his arm. - " What I'm being real, you know what I mean, right Jacob? "
Jacob: " I'm not getting involved with this one. " - He said laughing, as Issa shook his head. His dreads swayed from side to side. -
Issa: " Someone needs to grow their nuts back….." - He said coughing between the words. -
I glared at him, while Breaunna looked up at him. Folding her arms, twisting her lips. Looking him up and down. Jacob laughed some, as he pushed me towards our line. Getting ready.
Breaunna: " Awww look, my name is Babydoll in it. " - She said happily, as I looked up. Seeing Babydoll, Beauty and then Star. I smiled some too. - " OMG over err'thaaaang. " - She said mugging Issa. -
The same started up, Breaunna walked up, as she rolled her ball. Hitting a strike. The boys faces looked shock, as she turned looking at them. Snapping her fingers popping her hips.
Breaunna: " Mmmm mmm mmm. " - She laughed. - " Bowling league all day. " - Looking at her nails. - " Seems like I didn't break a nail, Issa. "
Issa: - He smacked his lips shaking his head. - " You got lucky, you know you cant hang with me. "
These two were always competing. Everything they did. It was cute though, Breaunna played Issa in basketball countless of times. The two were to cute together. Bahja sat on Langston lap, with his arms resting on her lap.
I looked the two up and down, shaking my head. Smiling, locking eyes with Jacob. He smiled, winking at me. I winked back, biting my lip some. He got up to bowl.
We finished up bowling, the girls beating the boys by 30pts. He stood behind me, as I held the pool stick in my hand. Helping me, I relaxed letting he took control. I smiled to myself, feeling my heart beat fast. I guess this what butterflies were. I
The ball rolled after being struck by white ball. Going into the pocket. I smiled, clapping as I turned around hugging him. He hugged me back, planting a kiss on his cheek. He smiled, holding me by the waist. Staring into each other eyes, he brought his hand up to my face. Brushing my hair from over my eye. Holding my chin up, as he went in for a kiss.
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* Selena POV *
My foot tapped against the floor. Looking at the time, sighing loudly. I knocked on the dressing room door. Her head poked out, as I looked at her stupidly. She did it back to me.
Lucy: " What? " - I shook my head. -
Selena: " Can you like hurry up? I need to go meet Justin, and you're taking forever." - I folded my arms looking at her. -
Lucy: " Did I rush you when you tried on clothes? " - She said closing the door. - " Well did I? '
Selena: - I rolled my eyes. - " No……"
Lucy: " Well don't rush me. " - I banged on the door hearing this from her. -
Selena: " Just hurry up……I don't have all day. "
I folded my arms, walking over to the near by seat. Sitting down. I stared at my reflection. Fixing my hair, puckering up my lips. Fixing my top, I smiled. Her door swung open.
Lucy: " Ready? " - She asked, looking at me. I stood up, grabbing my over size purse. - " I take that as a yes……"
Selena: " Glad you realized……" - I replied back, shaking my head. She rolled her eyes, walking behind me. -
We walked through the clothing store, making our way out. We walked side by side, pushing our way through the crowd. The mall seemed more crowded. What was I thinking, it was 4 days before Christmas.
I spotted Justin, as he stood there. Smiling big, I walked towards him. Stopping, seeing a girl walk up to him. He hugged her, Lucy looked up from her phone. As she stopped.
Selena: " Hold my purse Lucy…." - I said giving her my purse, I made my way towards the two. As he looked at me. A shocking look over took his face. I tapped the girl on her shoulder as she turned around. - " And who might you be? "
Justin: " Baby, relax. This is my cousin. " - He said quickly, she looked shocked. - " She was here in the mall from out of town. Don't worry. "
I smiled some, nodding my head. Looking into his eyes, then at her. Tilting my head some.
Selena: " I'm relaxed don't worry…..I'll just leave you alone, with your cousin. Ok? " - He looked at me smiling. -
Justin: " Thanks, I'm glad you understand. I'll call you when I leave here….." - He leaned in, kissing my forehead. Walking off with the girl. -
Lucy: - She folded her arms. - " Cousin, please……."
Selena: " Already on that……." - Squinting my eyes, watching the two walk off. Disappearing into the sea of people. - " Oh don't worry……."
Lucy and I continued on with our shopping. Carrying the many bags as we walked towards my car. I pulled out my keys, seeing a familiar looking car. The windows were foggy, looking at the license plate. I threw the bags into my car, furiously. Pulling at the door handles of his car. The door swung up, as the two jumped.
Selena: " COUSIN HUH!? " - I said as I slapped him across the face. - " You cheating a*s slime ball! " - He blocked the second swing. The girl tried to grab her clothes. - " Oh no you don't sweetie! "
Justin: " OH MY GOD SELENA! " - He yelled as I punched her, he shoved me off of them. - " This is why I cant be with you, you over react over sh*t! "
Selena: " Oh I'm sorry, over react because YOU WERE F*CKING YOUR COUSIN!? RIGHT!? OH WAIT I MEAN SOME WHOOOOORE! " - The girl started looked at me. - " B*tch don't look in my way before I come and rip your head off. You can have him, he doesn't last very long ANWAY! " - I said swing again hitting his cheek. -
Some Christmas this would be. I tried to fake this perfect high school relationship with him. That perfect teen relationship. I wasn't stupid. I knew he was cheating one me. Did I have bullsh*t written on my forehead.
He slammed the door, as he started to back up wildly, zooming out of the parking lot. Lucy placed her hand on my shoulder, wrapping her arms around me.
I hugged her back, getting into the car. Pulling off towards the exit. I smiled to myself. I don't know why I even got mad. Had no idea why I let my emotions take over me. I looked at my reflection through the rear view mirror. Blowing myself a kiss. Conceited? No. Just confident and wouldn't let a single person ruin my day.
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* Jasmine POV *
~ Evening ~
Wrapping paper were scattered every on the living room floor. I finished up the last gift. Christmas was suppose to be happy right? Joyful? Loving? Those thoughts ran through my mind. I sighed softly to myself. Home alone for once, I got up from the floor. Walking towards the bathroom.
Why was I shutting everyone out. The ones who once cared about probably wouldn't even care. They wouldn't notice. I should've stood up for Jacob, he even hated my guts now.
I needed out, I need to see happiness.
I rushed to my room, grabbing my keys and jacket. Rushing out of the front door, I drove off. Heading towards the ice ring.
A smiled appeared on my face, as it quickly went away. This reminded me of that night, when we went ice skating. The night I stuffed a marshmallow in his mouth. The night when he held me closely, keeping my warm.
I grabbed my ice skates as I changed into them. Skating around the ring, twirling and letting myself go.
3 hours went by, as I headed to my car. Getting inside, looking at my phone. I had 15 missed calls and 24 unread messages. All from Jinsu, I almost choked on my tears. I hurried up and cranked the engine, not waiting for it to warm up. I drove back home. Trying to beat every light.
I hurried through the front door. Seeing my mom on the couch, I sighed with relief. She smiled at me, as I smiled back. I went up to my room, sighing softly. The door slammed behind me, as it locked. I closed my eyes, already knew what was coming.
Jinsu: - He grabbed me roughly, turning me around to face him. Grabbing my face, squeezing my cheeks together between his hand. - " The f*ck you been? Huh? Went to go see that Jacob dude? Those two black girls? Which one? " - He asked, rage filled his eyes. -
Jasmine: " I didn't go see anyone……" - He squeezed my face tighter, as he pushed me back I stumbled back into the dresser. Which shook. I looked at him. -
Jinsu: " I told you, you don't leave this house. Unless I tell you to…..Unless I give you permission…….Its that t f*cking hard to follow? Huh? " - He said breathing heavily, sizing me up. - " Cant answer my calls or texts? "
Jasmine: - I shook my head. - " I left it in the car, please Jinsu. " - I said as tears started to roll from my face. -
Jinsu: " Left it in the car? So who were you out there f*cking then huh? Who were you out there cheating on me with huh? " - Walking towards me, as he grabbed me by my arm. Pulling me me closer to him. I tried to yank away as he tighten his grip. - " If you scream or say anything, I will make you suffer……." - He spoke through his teeth. He slung me onto the bed. -
He climbed on top of me. Kissing my roughing, covering my face with his hand. His other hand roamed around my body, so many thoughts ran through my head. I looked around the room for anything. Anything to use against him.
No one believed me. No one cared to listen. No one was there.
His tongue rubbed against my skin. As he started to unbutton my shirt. My phone vibrated, as he stopped. He looked at it. His facial expression changed, as he showed me. Jacob P appeared on it, he tossed the phone on the bed.
He swung his hand, as it connected with my cheek. My whole right side of my face felt numb.
I wanted to be numb. I just wanted this to be over. He never took it far, he just played around with me. Fondling with my body parts. I just wanted this night to end.
Why didn't he come rescue me? Why wasn't he ever around? Why didn't he care anymore? Why did I even think about him anymore?
I don't exist in his world, maybe he shouldn't exist in mines. Maybe my father was right. Maybe I should forget about love and accept my faith. Being in this controlling relationship with Jinsu.
What did I want for Christmas? To be left alone, to run away from this place. Never to be found again. Maybe it was better off that way. Jacob didn't seem to care, not one bit.
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Only the 3rd Day of Christmas....4 More days to go.....
Staring: Jawan Harris, Jacob Latimore, Young Jinsu, Beauty, Star, Babydoll, Demi Lovato, Diggy Simmons, Selena Gomez, Lucy Hale, Justin Bieber, Dionne Bromfield, Roshon Fegan, Issa Thompson.
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