Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Talking

‘Thoughts/flashbacks’

Strange voice in head

  Prologue

What?..

Where am I?

It’s so…

Dark.

*Beep…Beep…Beep*

What is that?

“-som.”

What?

“-ossom.”

Who is that?

What do they want?

“Ms. Blossom. Can you hear me?”

“mmm.”

I groaned as I opened my eyes a sliver, then all the way. I quickly shut them again with a louder groan because of the overly bright lights, reaching up with a hand to my aching head. When I opened them again I blinked a couple of times so that my eyes would adjust to the light. Upon my vision clearing I came face to face with a Latin-American woman in a long white coat with a stethoscope hanging around her neck and a clipboard in her hand.

A Doctor.

Which probably meant that I was in a hospital.

Nah duh Genius.

I almost started at the voice in my head that hardly sounded like my own but kept my composure for appearance sake.

The doctor looked at me for a short while, allowing me to take in my surroundings. When she thought I was adequately enough ready she opened her mouth to speak.

“Hello. My name is Dr. Amelinda Reselda*. Can you please tell me your name?” she asked nicely. She had an accent, but she was very understandable.

I looked at her.

‘Wasn’t she JUST calling my name a moment ago?’

I decided to answer her anyway.

“Blossom Xue* Utonium.” I responded.

She nodded and wrote something down on her clipboard, then she looked back up at me.

“How old are you?” she inquired.

“Seven.” I said instantly.

She jotted that down too.

We continued like that for a while, her asking me questions and me answering them while she wrote it all down in her clipboard. Until finally, it seemed as though it was coming to an end.

She asked me another question, this one a little different than the other more basic ones.

“Do you know where you are?” she queried.

I nodded.

“I’m in a hospital.” I replied.

She nodded this time.

Aren’t you just SO smart?

“Very good. Do you remember WHY you’re in the hospital?” she asked hesitantly.

I frowned and was about to say no when a bunch of images started flashing through my mind.

No, not just images.

Memories.

A lab.

Me in the lab mixing some chemicals together.

The Professor in the lab with me.

Smiling proudly at me.

Patting my head with affection.

My sisters calling me to come watch something with them on the television.

Me looking up at the Professor in question.

Him smiling and gesturing me to go on.

Grinning and kissing his cheek before flying up the stairs to join my sisters.

Giggling and laughing happily with them.

Going back down to the lab and continuing to mix my chemicals.

The chemicals starting to bubble over then glowing, violently shaking.

A scream.

An explosion.

Flames. Destruction.

Pain.

Blackness.

Silence.

Blurriness.

More pain.

A voice.

A figure.

An unrecognizable blurry face.

The feeling of being lifted.

Blackness again.

Soft, muttered words.

Silence.

Nothingness.

I didn’t realize that I had closed my eyes until I felt a gentle prod on my shoulder. I opened them to see the Doctor staring at me with concern.

She probably thinks you’re a nutjob.

‘She does not.’

“Are you alright dear?” she asked softly.

See? Nutjob.

I nodded, releasing the sides of my head.

‘When did I grab my head?’

When you remembered what you had done.

“Where is the Profes- I mean my father?” I asked, correcting myself last minute.

Her expression immediately turned solemn.

Oh, I bet she has some bad news.

“I’m afraid that Professor John Utonium didn’t make it. He is no longer with us. I’m sorry.” she said professionally until the last part, which she said remorsefully.

Told you.

I fought back the tears and gulped.

“And my sisters? Where are they?” I inquired, hoping beyond hope that they were alive and okay.

Don’t get your hopes up.

She smiled slightly.

 “Your sisters are alive.” she stated.

I sighed in relief.

But…

Her smile dropped as she grimaced.

‘Uh-oh, that’s not a good face.’

Here it comes.

“But…they have amnesia. They both took serious injuries to the head and when they awoke we asked them the very same questions I asked you. They couldn’t answer any of them, they don’t remember anything. They can’t even recall their own names.” she explained.

And there it is.

I could feel the tears welling up, but I wouldn’t let them fall.

‘No. No, you are a Leader. You don’t cry.’

But what good is a leader with no one to lead.

I ignored that voice in my head and swallowed the lump forming in my throat.

“W-where are they?” I questioned.

‘You did NOT just stutter!’

Of course you did.

Dr. Reselda masked her face in a professional-like way.

“Because of your *ahem* special abilities and the fact that your sisters can’t remember said abilities, the Government decided it would be best if they…didn’t remember. Seeing as in the past your sisters have both had emotional outbursts that have caused destruction to the city, the Government has deemed it necessary that those abilities and the news of your creator’s passing remain hidden from them…. for the safety of the city.” she explained plainly.

“Then why did you tell ME of his death?” I said, confused.

She looked at me.

“Because you are more collected, calm, and composed than your sisters and you know how to keep your emotions as well as your abilities in check. Plus you DON’T have amnesia, so we can’t keep such vital information from you.” she said.

I nodded.

‘That makes sense.’

But she still didn’t answer your question.

‘That’s right, she didn’t!’

“But WHERE are they?” I repeated.

She sighed tiredly.

“The Government didn’t want any villains or enemies of yours to attack them in their amnesiac state, so they were sent away to separate orphanages in different places. One is in Spain and the other is in New England.” she said.

‘WHAT?!’

Tch, by that she means the Government didn’t want beings so powerful to end up in the wrong hands…except theirs of course.

I felt a stinging in my eyes, so I looked down at the sheets covering my legs, then I cleared my throat.

“Okay. I understand.” I spoke quietly.

No you don’t.

“Good.” she said instantly with a big smile.

Fake.

She nodded once and patted my covered foot, then got up heading for the door. Before she went out it she turned her head back towards me.

“Oh and when you’re fully healed and permitted to leave the hospital you’ll be sent to the local Townsville Orphanage.” with that she left.

When I heard the door click shut I waited for a short bit, then small droplets started hitting my covered legs. I pulled my legs to my chest and wrapped my arms around my knees, burying my face into them.

And I cried.

Some Leader of Heroes you are. Pathetic.

I cried harder.

. . .

It was a week later that I now stood in front of Townsville Orphanage.

All of my wounds had healed completely within the time.

Well, except for one…

A scar, going over my left shoulder.

An infinite reminder of how badly you failed.

I looked upon the big building before me as I stood in front of its iron gates.

‘Well, here goes.’

I inhaled a deep breath and took a step.

I was now inside the Orphanage’s grounds.

I let the breath go.

‘And now to start my new life.’

I mean…

It can’t get any worse.

‘Right?’

End Prologue

  What will become of our poor Heroine?

You’ll just have to find out in Chapter 1.

*1- Amelinda and Reselda are both Latin-American names.

Amelinda= Hardworking

Reselda= Healer

*2- Xue is Chinese which I thought was fitting since Blossom was learning Mandarin Chinese.

Xue= Snow; purity

Hope you all enjoyed this.

Please Review if you'd like.

Love you all!

Until next time.

~Ash141

Chapter Text

Talking

“Speaking”

Descriptions

‘Thoughts/flashbacks’

Strange voice in head

Blossom’s POV:

Turns out I was wrong.

Very wrong.

‘You shut up. You don’t get an input.’

I groaned at the arguing going on in my head. It’s been like this for the past 10 years.

‘Yes, 10 long- ‘

LONG

‘-years.’

After I was put into the Townsville Orphanage not even 6 months later I was adopted out.

Great, right?

‘WRONG!’

Why, you may ask?

Well it probably has something to do with me getting adopted by none other than…

The Smiths.

That’s right, the Smiths. The same lunatic family that chased my family and I through our OWN house in some tricked out, weaponized car just because we ruined their dinner!

Crazy right?!

I mean, who in their right minds would let that insane family out of prison much less let them adopt a child?!

Obviously, someone who finds it hilarious to ruin your life.

‘Shush!’

But apparently, they were let out for good behavior a year or so before the… um.

Accident?

Yes…that.

They also somehow became wealthy within that time. I don’t exactly know how but…

‘It was probably illegal.’

Ya think?

Anyway, they adopted me and forbid me from using my powers, and the Government ALLOWED it. Said it was “for the best if I didn’t draw too much attention to myself” or something along those lines.

Not that it mattered much now anyway, what with my sisters being relocated and me being forcibly out of commission, no monsters or villains see the point in attacking the city anymore.

~For what good is a villain or monster that has no hero to fight? ~

There are still small-time criminals though; robbers, thugs, etc., but nowadays Townsville’s Police Force can handle that.

So, in other words. You’re completely useless.

‘Do you EVER just SHUT. UP?!’

Let me think about that…Hmm…NOPE!

‘You insufferable little- Why I oughta- ‘

I sighed as my inner voices fought.

Even though the Smiths adopted me doesn’t mean that they treated me like family. Actually, they treat me more like their servant, except when the Child Services came to check up on me of course.

Which hasn’t been for what…7, 8 years now?

I sighed again, then I groaned as my alarm clock went off.

Great, another nearly sleepless night.

I got up from my “bed”, really just an old beaten up couch with a sheet, blanket, and pillow on it, with a stretch. I make my way over to the chest-of-drawers I found a while back that holds my clothes. I pick out an outfit: A long-sleeved pale pink shirt, grey sweatpants with the word ‘pink’ in all capital letters up the side of one of the pantlegs colored white, and some flipflops. And obviously some undergarments.

I make my way outside and go towards a small bathhouse beside the little shack I have been made to live in outside instead of the huge mansion that the Smiths live in.

‘Yeah, the one with about a hundred rooms that they couldn’t bother to spare even ONE of.’

But why would they? They hate her. She’s their servant, NOT a member of the family.

‘They ADOPTED her!’

To use and torture.

‘Ugh! You are unbelievable!’

Heh, I try.

I go into the bathhouse and get a towel and washcloth from a cabinet under the sink, then place them on the closed lid of the toilet, setting my neatly folded clothes on the back of it. I hop in the shower and turn on the water, not even bothering to touch the hot water handle. I’ve been taking cold showers since I got here and have grown quite used to it, not that I enjoy it but at least I actually HAVE water…even if it IS freezing cold. After doing all the necessities I towel dry off my body and put on my clothes. I do have electricity so I plug in the hairdryer and start drying my long hair. After I’m done with that I take my brush off the sink and turn towards the body mirror hanging on the door, it’s a little bit cracked but not a lot so I can see myself in it just fine. I begin to brush my hair while staring into the mirror.

As I look in the mirror I study my features: Mildly tanned skin from having to do some chores outside over the years, long knee-length orange hair that hasn’t been cut since the Accident, fair breasts, nice hips and butt, good legs for someone that’s 5’3”, light pink eyes with dark bags under them. They used to be brighter but that was a long time ago, now they were dimmer and didn’t hold as much hope and life as they used to.

I finished brushing my hair out and heaved a sigh, then I put it into a low ponytail. My bow was gone, lost forever in the Accident. I didn’t own any make-up so I had none to wear. I then gathered up my dirty clothes and towel before going outside and up a hill, towards the mansion, or at least the back of it. I arrive at the only unlocked door, the cellar door.

The cellar is where the washer and dryer are, and where the Smiths send all their dirty clothes down the laundry chute for me to do.

After I put all the clothes in the washer I make my way up the steps to the kitchen where I make myself some toast. I always have to get up extra early so that I can get ready, eat, and do my chores, which include: laundry, dusting everywhere then cleaning afterwards until everything practically shines, and cooking them all an extravagant breakfast.

‘Yeah, that they NEVER eat and throw away immediately upon seeing it to instead fix their own.’

Such a shame. All that good-looking food going to waste.

I yawn as I continue my morning routine, rubbing my eyes and down my face. I look at the clock.

5:30 a.m.

I get up every morning at 4:00 to get ready for the day and am usually done by 5, then go to the mansion to complete my other tasks. I usually have breakfast ready by 6 because school starts at 8 and I always have to wake up the younger Smiths.

Even though they have a big mansion they don’t have any staff, except me and the limo driver, Charlie. We don’t ever really speak to each other. He’s nice enough though, nicer than the Smiths at least. He always lets me ride in the front of the limo with him when he takes the young Smiths to school.

After a while I look at the clock again.

6:30 a.m.

Usually the older Smiths get up at this time.

Right on cue I hear footsteps.

‘Two pairs. One heavier than the other. The older Smiths.’

Oh joy.

First to walk in is the mother of the family.

Marianne Lynda* Smith: A 38-year-old woman with tanned skin, light blonde-ish white hair, and blue eyes. She became a villain a long while ago after her husband was sent to jail. The reason? We “ruined” her dinner, she loves to cook or bake to the point that she’ll get a “little” hostile if someone doesn’t compliment her food, it’s worse when someone chooses not to eat her food. She puts up a mask of peppy niceness around anyone who’s not her family but she’s actually an unhinged, wrathful, and amoral psychopath. She takes pleasure in getting revenge, she’s sadistic and bipolar. Though her weakness is how petty she is. She is also very clever and sneaky.

She walked in with a spring in her step. Mrs. Smith was DEFINITELY a morning person. She completely ignored all the food on the table and instead went to the fridge.

Her husband sleep-stumbled into the kitchen after his wife.

Harold Claude* Smith: A 40-year-old man who’s bald, has a long nose, and blackish eyes with square glasses. He wanted to be a Supervillain at one point but failed miserably at it, getting arrested twice in the process. He’s reckless and kind of crazy.

He groans and yawns. He is most definitely NOT a morning person. He absentmindedly reaches for some of the food on the table until he hears a clearing of someone’s throat. He looks up and sees his wife grinning with her white teeth showing but the smile doesn’t quite reach her eyes. In fact, her eyes looked somewhat…deadly.

“Harold, honey. What are you doing?” Marianne asked in an overly sugary-sweet voice.

Harold gulped and glanced down at the piece of perfectly buttered toast with grape jelly on it in his hand then looked back up at his wife, eyes nervous.

“Um…I was just… uh.” Harold stuttered.

Marianne’s “smile” widened, showing more of her teeth.

“~Harold~” Marianne sing-songed, squinting her eyes.

“Yes Dear.” Harold said, placing the toast down quickly, avoiding eye contact with his ‘lovely’ wife.

If by lovely you mean a she-beast.

I continued to sweep the kitchen as I took fleeting glances at the married couple.

Unfortunately, Marianne caught me glancing and the smile instantly dropped off her face.

“What are you looking at?” she scowled.

I looked down at the floor.

“Nothing Mrs.” I answered quietly.

Her scowl deepened.

“Aren’t you supposed to be waking up my kids for school?” she snapped.

‘Key word your kids.’

I nodded then turned and walked away, not missing the muttered ‘freak’ under her breath as I walked out of the room. I smartly chose to ignore it and made my way up the stairs, going down the long hallway until I came to a fork in it. I went to the right side first and upon reaching the end I stopped at a set of doors. I took a deep breath and plastered a smile on my face as I opened the door. I peeked into the room to see a lump still in the bed, I sighed as I tiptoed my way into the youngest Smith’s room. I began to nudge the lump lightly.

“Come on. It’s time to get up so you can get ready for school.” I said while continuing to nudge the lump awake.

All of a sudden, a hand came out from under the covers and smacked me in the face.

I instantly backed away from the bed and quickly tried to get to the door, knowing what was coming next. I made it out the door just in time as I heard something shattering against the closed door followed by angry shrieking.

Ah, the ever-pleasant sister of the Smiths.

Julie Galiena* Smith: A 17-year-old girl with bright blonde hair, blue/indigo eyes, and peach skin. She used to be chubby when she was a kid but lost all her weight growing up, now she’s basically a stick with big boobs. She became a villain with her family because my sisters and I “lost” her jacks. She is extremely obsessed with jacks, unhealthily so in my opinion. She took up ballet at some point and is a pretty skilled ballerina, if she wasn’t so snobbish about it. She is a major brown-noser, mainly because she’s always trying to get in with the “in-crowd” i.e. Princess Morbucks and her posse. She also feigns stupidity a lot when she’s actually really crafty. Basically, she’s just your typical mean and spoiled rich girl.

I winced as I rubbed at my stinging cheek, sighing as I arrived back at the fork. This time going left I made it to the end where it was dark, all the blinds being closed and the curtains shut. The door was covered in obscene, insulting things, which was just a warning to ‘Stay Out if you know what’s good for you’.

‘One down, one to go.’

Knowing the “personality” of the being inside I simply knocked on the door 3 times.

The door opened and I was met with a hard glare by a tall figure.

“What?” the figure growled.

I looked to the floor.

“It’s time to get ready for school.” I say quietly.

“Tch, whatever.” the figure mutters, slamming the door in my face.

What a ray of sunshine.

‘Tell me about it.’

Bud (Buddy) Herve* Smith: A 19-year-old boy with shaggy green hair that’s shaved at the bottom, a pointy nose, and pale-ish skin. He no longer has braces or an overbite but instead got his canines sharpened, he has piercings in his ears and lip (Spider-bites), and he is always wearing different colored contacts. He “hates everything” or at least seems like it because there’s always a sneer or scowl on his face, and he’s uncaring for basically everything and everyone. He is Emo Punk and is always in a bad mood. He’s also still in high school because he failed previously due to his lack of trying.

I’ve learned over the years that it’s best if you avoid looking in the temperamental boy’s eyes, especially in the morning.

I turn and walk back towards the stairs. Once I reach the bottom of them, instead of going into the kitchen I go to the cellar and out the back to the shed I stay in. I grab my books for school and walk around the side of the mansion to the front where Charlie is already waiting in the limo. I get in the passenger’s side seat and he instantly rolled the tinted glass between the front and back of the limo up.

He doesn’t ever talk much but then again, neither do I.

Because you’re a coward.

‘Shut up!’

I heard the doors to the mansion open and the older Smiths telling the younger Smiths ‘goodbye’ and ‘to have a great day at school’ before those doors shut and Charlie went to the back on my side and opened the limo door.

Julie getting in without a ‘thank you’, and Bud going around to the other side and opening the opposite door for himself and getting in with a scowl.

Like always.

‘Looks like he’s wearing the black contacts today, which means he’s in an extra bad mood.’

What’s new?

Charlie gets back in the driver’s seat and then we’re off.

. . .

We arrived at our destination 18 minutes later.

Townsville High

The only high school in all of Townsville.

Which means every teenager in Townsville has to go to it.

Rich. Poor. Didn’t matter.

If you were a teenager in high school you went there.

Charlie got out and opened the door. Julie getting out, again without even a thank you. Bud getting out on his own on the other side.

I waited until they were both a good distance away before I got out myself, giving Charlie a small wave goodbye.

He tipped his hat then drove off.

I gripped my books to my chest and took in a deep breath as I internally prepared myself for the school day ahead. I began to walk towards the entrance, passing many different types of groups as I did. As I went inside and to my locker many students passed by me. I was almost to my locker when I felt myself get shoved from behind. I fell to the ground with my books splayed out in front of me on the floor.

“Why don’t you watch where you’re going Freak?!” a snobby voice said from beside me.

I looked up and had to stifle a groan as I saw Julie sneering down at me. I hear giggles from a distance away and I look past Julie to see none other than Princess Morbucks and her gaggle of followers.

Princess Morbucks had changed somewhat over the years, not her personality of course, but appearance-wise. She had a very voluptuous figure, smooth and unblemished skin with a smatter of freckles across her face, green eyes, and she had even let her hair grow out though it was still extremely poofy she didn’t keep it up in those two puffballs but instead kept it back in a poofed ponytail.

Julie continued to scowl down at me then grinned at hearing her “friends’” approving giggles, waving snootily at me before turning on her heel and bouncing off towards them.

In sync, they all turned and left.

Geez, what a bunch of bit-.

‘HEY!’

Prude. You’re no fun.

‘Better than a barbaric, dirty-mouthed tool- ‘

Yeah, yeah. Whatever.

‘You sound like Bud.’

How dare you.

I sighed as I gathered my books from the floor, picking myself up I finally made it to my locker. I put in my combination and opened it, placing the books I didn’t need in and taking the ones I did need out. I then proceeded to close my locker and lock it before turning around to look at the clock on the opposite wall.

7:23 a.m.

The hallways are clear now seeing as Homeroom starts at 7:30.

I hold my books close and walk with my head down and eyes to the ground, my feet already memorized how to get me to my class.

Though I didn’t expect to turn the corner and slam right into somebody else. Upon impact I fell right on to my butt, my poor books again spread along the floor for the second time that day in the last five minutes.

“Hey! Watch it!” says an irritated masculine voice from above me.

I say nothing at first as I grab my books, then I see a piece of paper among them. I reach for it thinking it must be his.

“I’m so sor-.” I cut myself off as I see the name on the very top of the sheet.

Brick Haydn* Jojo

I slowly begin to look up. Going over long legs with ripped black jeans and a chain, a muscular red leather jacket clad body, until I reach his face. Where my dim pink eyes meet dark crimson red eyes.

“B-Brick?” I whisper, not believing my eyes.

(A/N: I was going to leave it here as a cliffhanger but then I was like ‘Nah' so, continuing now.)

It had been years, even before the Accident since I had seen him. He had just…disappeared 10 ½ years ago. No trace of him, his brothers, or their large-brained simian father Mojo. They had just been… gone. So…

What was he doing here now?

“Wha-? Doeth mine eyes deceive me? My old bossy counterpart. Pinky, is that really you?” he asks, mischief shining in his eyes.

I look away from his eyes to the floor and nod.

I can’t face him. He radiates so much confidence, fearlessness, and power, his entire being demands respect…or fear…both? The very definition of a true leader.

And I can’t even look at him.

Because he only reminds me…

of everything I no longer am.

There’re suddenly fingers snapping in my face. I come to and finally look at him again, really look at him.

Strong, muscular body. Tall form. Tanned skin. Dark auburn hair back in a low bun, making his hair look shorter than it actually is with the ever-there red backwards hat sitting on his head. There seemed to even be piercings in his ears. And of course, his crimson red eyes that seemed to be staring into my very soul. He looks to be about 18 now.

I conclude that he’s grown up…a lot, and he’s actually quite attractive.

I see his tongue swipe over his lips as he’s looking over me. I catch something shining slightly on his tongue.

He has a tongue piercing too?!

“Soo, Pinky. You gonna keep checking me out from the floor, or you gonna do it standing up? Of course, I don’t mind which way you do it. The view’s pretty good for me either way.” he says with a smirk on his face, even throwing in a wink.

I feel my face heat up and scramble to stand.

“Heh heh. It’s been a while, hasn’t it Bossy?” he asks, leaning sideways against the wall with his arms crossed.

I nod smally, still not looking in his eyes.

“How’s the sisters?” he tries for casual conversation.

I flinch slightly and don’t answer.

“How about the hero biz?” another casual question.

I’m still silent.

“How’s…life?” he tries one more time, sounding a little agitated now.

I say nothing, nor do I look at him.

“What’s wrong with you?! Why won’t you say anything?! Why won’t you look at me?! Where’s that annoying big red bow that you NEVER took off?! Where’s the Bossy Blossy that I know?!” he explodes, small trails of smoke coming from his nostrils and mouth, anger and annoyance evident in his eyes.

I finally look up at him, pain flashing in my eyes briefly.

“Gone. They’re both gone.” I say emotionlessly.

I then hear the bell for Homeroom ring.

“Sorry.” I whisper, shoving his paper at his chest, walking around him, and continuing down the corridor.

Leaving Brick gob-smacked in the hallway, the smoke from his nose and lips dissipating.

. . .

I quickly turn the corner and lean back against the wall, one hand clutching at my heart. I breathe deeply to hold back the tears.

Once I’ve calmed down considerably enough, I stand straight up with my head down, wipe my eyes, and go down the hall towards my original destination.

Coward.

End Chapter 1

What’d you all think?

How about Blossom’s new living arrangements and “family”?

Wonder what will happen to her next?

Guess we’ll just have to find out in Chapter 2.

*1- Lynda is a German name.

Lynda= Snake

*2- Claude is an English name.

Claude= Lame

*3- Galiena is also a German name.

Galiena= Haughty

*4- Herve is also an English name.

Herve= Bitter

*5- Haydn is a German name.

Haydn= Heathen or Fire (pretty fitting for Brick)

Hope you enjoyed this chapter.

Please Review, Follow, and Favorite. Or PM me.

Love ya!

Until next time.

~Ash141

Chapter Text

Talking

“Speaking”

Descriptions

'Thoughts/flashbacks'

Strange voice in head

Blossom’s POV:

I make it into Homeroom just as the late bell rings. The teacher doesn’t seem to be in yet though, so I take my seat.

“What took you so long?” said a feminine voice from beside me.

I look over to see a girl in a flowery shirt and some jeans.

Amaryllis (Mary) Damia Gardener*: A 17 year old girl who is a cute kind of chubby, she is slightly bucktoothed, wears glasses so it’s hard to tell that she has light grey eyes, and she has shoulder-length chestnut brown hair. She is very shy but nice. She loves nature and anything that has to do with gardening. Her parents own a gardening store called Gardeners' Gardens. She is a very good friend.

Yes, I do in fact have friends. Even though I’m a social outcast.

And might I just say how surprised we all are.

‘No, you may not.’

“I ran into…somebody on the way here.” I replied quietly.

I could’ve told Mary who it was but I didn’t really want to think about the 'conversation' I had with 'you-know-who'.

“Are you alright?” I heard from behind me.

I turned around to see a boy.

Jeffry (Jeff) Wilbur Sproule*: He is a 17-year-old male with blond hair, blue eyes, and freckles on his cheeks. Due to a leg deficiency he had when he was born, and his parent's lack of money for a proper surgery, he has to spend his life in a wheelchair but he doesn’t let that keep him down with his hyperactive personality, though since he got together with his girlfriend he’s a little less hyper and a lot calmer and peaceful. He is easily excitable, very strong-willed, and does not give up easy. He’s also very perceptive and extremely protective of his friends. Even though he is lame in his legs, he has amazing upper-body strength. He is also a great friend.

I nod with a small smile.

Fake.

'Shut up.’

Jeff squints his eyes at me in a perceiving manner, then opens his mouth to say something.

Just then the teacher walks in and calls for everyone to look to the front of the class.

I turn back around in my seat, almost releasing a relieved sigh.

“Alright class, settle down now. We have some new students joining our school today, but two of them won’t be arriving until later on in the day. Let’s not keep your new classmates waiting shall we? Okay boys, you can come on in.” the teacher explained before calling out.

Two figures stepped through the door, one after the other.

'Oh no.’

Just your luck right?

They stood at the front of the room. One had his hands in his hoodie pockets with a bored but calculating look as he glanced around the room, and the other had his arms crossed over his chest with a sneer on his face.

“Please introduce yourselves to the class by saying your full names.” the teacher says to them.

The bigger male speaks first.

“You got it Teach. The name’s Butch Dennis* Jojo, we’ll get along just fine if you don’t piss me off. Though I see a few fine ladies in here that I won’t have a problem with if they treat me right.” he said with a smirk and a wink, making most of the girls in the class (besides Mary and I) blush and squeal.

He looked to be 18 years old. He had spiked up black hair, forest green eyes, really tanned skin, and a very large muscular body. He also had multiple piercings in his ears, on his lip (Snakebites), and one on his eyebrow. He had tattoos all up either side of his arms, one had 'Baron of Berserk' up it in green slimy-styled letters with it trailing under his ripped sleeveless shirt and out to the lower side of his neck where a green snail with a black and bronze shell sat, and his other arm just had a bunch of random stuff like skulls and knives on it. His incisors and canines were sharpened.

“Um, yes. Thank you Butch. You’re up next.” the teacher said, gesturing to the other boy.

He stepped up and cleared his throat.

“Hi everyone, my name is Boomer Rai*Jojo. I hope we can all get along, and that you’ll take really great care of me.” he said with a smile as he ran his fingers his hair to get it out of his eyes.

The girls of the class swooned and giggled girlishly.

He also looked to be 18 years old. He had wavy dirty blond hair that reached his neck, navy blue eyes, slightly tanned skin, and a lean muscular body that’s covered by a blue hoodie. He only had his ears pierced.

I couldn’t tell if he had any tattoos, and if he did they were hidden.

“Very good Boomer. Thank you. Now, let’s see. Where should I sit you two?” the teacher muttered.

Many girls raised their hands to suggest the seats around themselves but the teacher didn’t seem to be paying them any attention. Finally, the teacher came to a conclusion.

“How about I sit you around Blossom. Blossom raise your hand please.” said the teacher.

‘What?! Really?!’

Ooo, tough luck huh?

'You be quiet. Why us?!’

I honestly couldn’t have agreed more.

But I should have figured that if 'you-know-who’ was here then his brothers would be too.

‘But why do they have to be put near us?!’

Because the world hates you?

‘You are unbelievable!’

I know.

I raised my hand reluctantly.

Forest green and navy blue eyes zeroed in on me.

Butch let a wild grin graze his lips as his eyes shone slightly.

Boomer tilted his head.

I tried not to flinch at their gazes.

I knew they recognized me just like 'you-know-who’ did.

“Butch you can sit beside her on her left, and Boomer you can sit in front of her.” the teacher informed.

The boys do exactly that, with Butch plopping heavily in his desk and Boomer just quietly sitting in his.

“Alright, now that that’s out of the way. You may all talk amongst yourselves until the bell rings.” the teacher announced.

I felt the glares of girls all around me when the boys sat down.

Great, just what I need, more people to hate me.

But they already do.

'Shut it!’

I saw Butch lean over close to me.

“Hey Pink, where’s Butts at? She around here somewhere?” Butch asks, getting a little too close in my personal space for my liking.

I scooted away from him the slightest bit and said nothing.

His grin diminished the tiniest amount.

“Didn’t ya hear me?” Butch queried, sounding a little aggravated now.

I remained silent.

Butch scowled, scaring some of his admirers and making them look away from our general direction.

Boomer glanced at me with a raised brow but turned back around when the bell rung.

I quickly got up from my seat and bolted from the classroom. I just got to a corner when I felt a firm grip on my upper arm, then I was yanked and forcibly turned around to face an angry Butch.

“Hey! How dare you ignore me! I oughta-!” seethed Butch as he clenched his other fist, holding it up.

My eyes widened and my breath hitched. This time I couldn’t hold back the flinch as I stared at the Green Ruff's raised fist.

“Butch. Enough.” came Boomer’s voice from beside Butch.

I glanced at him to see him looking at me intensely before he looked to Butch.

“But-.” Butch started.

Boomer put a hand on Butch’s shoulder.

“Butch, Brick said not to make any unnecessary scenes.” Boomer murmured.

Butch grumbled, then glared harshly at me before letting go of me like I was poisonous.

You are a poison. To everyone you cared for, currently care for, or ever will care for, and especially to yourself.

“Fine. I wasn’t actually gonna hit her anyway.” Butch muttered as he crossed his arms.

Boomer slightly rolled his eyes.

I rubbed my arm where Butch had grabbed me, drawing both their attention.

They both stared at me and I averted my gaze to the floor.

Boomer finally turned away and pushed on Butch’s shoulder.

“Come on Butch, let’s go.” Boomer said, turning to leave.

Butch gave me one last scathing glare then followed his younger brother, disappearing into the crowd and leaving me standing by myself.

I take some deep breaths before heading towards my next class.

Later on…

I walked into the lunchroom and looked around to try and spot at least one of my friends.

“Hey Bloss, over here!” I heard from my right.

I looked over to see Mary waving me over. I walked to the table she was sitting at and saw two of my other friends sitting with her.

“Hiya Blossom. How’s it hangin?” said the only male at the table.

Joey Issac* Robertson: He’s a 17 year old African American who has some Dutch in him, with black hair, dark brown eyes (he has glasses but mostly wears contacts), and he’s really tall. He’s funny, likes to joke around a lot, enjoys making others (especially his friends and girlfriend) laugh. He plays basketball and he’s on the guy’s swim team (because his girlfriend wanted him to). He’s a good and supportive friend.

I gave him a small smile as I sat down beside Mary.

The girl on my other side giggled as she hugged Joey’s arm.

“You’re so silly Jo. And you’re really quiet today Blossy. What’s on your mind?” she asked.

Clara Halima Allaire * : She’s a 17 year old French African American female with poofy dark brown almost black hair that she keeps in pufftails, wears glasses (of a different color every day) over her light brown eyes, and is kinda short. She is super kind, very soft-spoken, and understanding. She’s a peacekeeper, happy most of the time except when her friends are upset in any way.  She’s on the girl’s volleyball team and the girl’s swim team. Her boyfriend is Joey and she’s a great friend to have.

‘Clara kind of reminds me of Bubbles in a way, she has such an exuberant and trustworthy personality. She’s fun and caring and always willing to make new friends. It’s hard not to find her amazing and loveable.’

I gave a one-shouldered shrug.

“Is it about those new guys from Homeroom?” Mary asked.

Clara turned to Mary with a confused face.

“What new guys?” Clara spoke curiously.

I made a face, wishing they weren’t talking about this.

“There were these two boys that introduced themselves at the beginning of class and the teacher made them sit beside and in front of Bloss. One had black hair and dark green eyes, and the other one had blond hair and navy blue eyes. The blond one was sorta quiet and minded his own business for the most part, but the black haired one was all up in Bloss's face and kept asking her questions. He would NOT leave her alone.” Mary explained.

Joey nodded, snapping his fingers.

“Yeah, I’ve seen them. They’re in some of my classes with this redheaded dude that has red eyes. Oh, there he is now.” Joey said, pointing in a direction.

We all turned to look and sure enough, there he was, coming through the doors with his brothers right behind him.

He scanned the room until he caught my eyes.

I quickly turned back around.

“Hey, it looks like they’re coming over.” Mary announced.

After a little bit I felt the presence of three individuals. Three very powerful individuals.

“Hey Pinky, looks like we meet again.” I heard 'you-know-who’s voice say from behind me.

I didn’t respond and continued to face the table.

Two irritated growls sounded from behind me, one deeper than the other. Heat emanating from one of them.

“Um…B-Bloss.” Mary whispered worriedly.

Out of the corners of my eyes I saw that my friends had gone stiff and were staring wide-eyed at the Boys.

I saw a big hand appear on the table in front of me, and then felt the pressure of a body against my back. I also felt hot breath hitting my ear.

“You know, it’s very rude to ignore someone when they’re trying to talk to you.” whispered that deep voice right in my ear.

I could smell the smoke spilling from his lips and could feel the heat radiating off of him.

One thing I regrettably forgot about this particular 'person', is his temper, though it does seem that he’s learned to control it better over the years but that doesn’t change the fact that he still has it.

You’re in trouble now.

I still say nothing.

My chair is abruptly yanked around.

I let out a startled gasp at the quick action but I didn’t look up to his face, instead I kept my gaze level with his chest.

Until the hand that was on the back of my chair pushed it backwards so that the top of it was against the table.

I was then looking up at him, his face looming over mine.

His dark crimson orbs stared deeply into my soul. The wisps of smoke spilling from his nostrils and between his scowling lips.

I tried desperately not to tremble as I was forced to meet Brick’s eyes.

“So, I heard about your little argument with Butch this morning. You gonna tell me what all that was about?” Brick asked.

I shook my head no.

“Is that so now?” Brick said, eyes narrowing.

I gulped, trembling ever so slightly.

Boomer shifted from behind Brick, watching me intently just like he did in the hallway after Homeroom.

“Brick. There was a specific reason we came over to her, remember?” Boomer stated.

Brick scoffed but reached into his book-bag anyway, dropping something on the table with a loud 'thud'.

“There’s your stuff. Next time don’t be stupid and run out of class without it.” Brick snapped before turning to walk away.

I looked to the table to see my stack of books sitting there. I then looked back to Brick before I stared down at my lap, fidgeting my fingers on it.

“Thank you.” I whispered smally.

Brick didn’t even glance back.

“Tch. Whatever. Just don’t forget them again.” Brick responded, continuing to walk with his brothers following.

Butch turned around briefly to give me the 'I'm-watching-you' sign with his eyes and two of his fingers.

Boomer smacked him in the head right after.

There was a collective exhalation around the table when the Boys were far enough away.

“Wh-who are those guys?!” Joey whisper-hissed, staring at me for an answer.

Mary and Clara giving me the same questioning look.

I sighed.

Might as well tell them.

“Those are the RowdyRuff Boys, or were formerly when I was still…you know.” I said quietly.

They nodded, waiting for me to continue.

“They were originally created by Mojo Jojo in a prison cell, in which the chimp used Snips, Snails, a Puppy Dog Tail, and a toilet with 'Chemical X' in it. They fought us and won the first time but by the end of the day got destroyed because of the unstableness of the 'Chemical' used to make them. A long time later they were brought back to life by HIM, the demon lobster transvestite. They were stronger, meaner, and more powerful than before, not to mention that this time they were actually stable. We won in the very end but had suffered a horrible beating beforehand. We saw a lot more of them after that, though we could never truly 'defeat' them but they could never defeat us either.” I explained longly.

They seemed to understand better.

“Alright, so they were your enemies when you were younger. But who are they individually?” Clara asked.

'Here we go.’

This should be fun to explain.

“Boomer is the blond, blue-eyed one; he is the Snips of the trio and used to be considered the 'Dumbest of the Dumb', though I believe he’s grown out of that title as he seems a lot more intelligent now than he was in his younger days. He’s Bubbles' counterpart. Butch is the black-haired, green-eyed one; he is the Snails and the 'Baron of Berserk' of the Boys and he seems to still be that, he’s a fighter and if he’s anything like he was back then, then he’s wild, insane, and difficult to deal with. He’s Buttercup's counterpart. The last one with his red hair and crimson red eyes is probably the most dangerous of the three; he is the Puppy Dog Tail, even if he seems far from it, he is known as 'The Bludgeoner' and is the Leader of the Ruffs. If he’s anything like he used to be then he’s sarcastic, enjoys other people’s pain (whether he causes it or not), he likes to be feared/worshipped, and now he seems way smarter than he was which makes him even more devious. He's my counterpart, Brick.” I finished.

They blinked.

“Wow, that’s a lot to take in.” Mary said.

Clara nodded in agreement.

“Wait, you kept saying 'used to', not are. It’s like you don’t know how they are now.” Joey stated.

I nodded.

“It’s because I don’t know. They disappeared before the…the, um…Accident. I don’t know where they went, and I definitely don’t know why they came back; which is what worries me the most.” I said quietly.

We were all silent for a while.

“Well, try not to worry too much about it. They don’t really look like they’re up to anything at the moment, maybe they’re just here to be normal teenagers.” Clara voiced her opinion.

Mary nodded.

“I don’t know guys, the only one who was acting normal was Boomer. The green-eyed one, Butch (?), kept glaring at you the entire time Bloss. And we all saw what the red one, Brick (?), did. What was up with him anyway?” Joey commented with an irritated face.

I sighed a little.

“Brick always had a temper when we were kids. He seems to be able to control it better now, but he still has one.” I responded, feeling a bit tired.

All their eyes widened a bit.

“That was controlling it?! Then I’d hate to see what it’s like when he loses control.” Joey exclaimed.

Clara and Mary nodded frantically.

“Me too. Especially now because I have no idea what to expect of him since he’s older.” I say.

Just then the bell rings, signaling that lunch is over.

I get up and say goodbye to my friends, making sure to grab my books off the table as I leave the cafeteria. I head to my locker to change my textbooks out for my upcoming classes. When I arrive at my locker before I can open it I notice some people standing a ways down the lockers from me.

Boomer is standing off to the side with his hands in his hoodie’s pockets, looking bored.

Butch is entertaining the advances of a girl, a smirk plastered on his face and one of his eyebrows raised. She says something and he chuckles a bit before leaning towards her and saying something quietly to her, causing her to gasp lightly then start giggling wildly with her cheeks turning red. Butch’s smirk widens.

Lastly, there was Brick, leaning his back against a locker with his arms crossed. He rolled his eyes, presumably at his middle brother’s antics. He then looked down at the girl talking to him.

Who was none other than Julie.

'Oh, great.’

This day just keeps getting better and better, doesn’t it? Heh, heh.

'You're such a jerk!’

Yeah, yeah.

Princess wasn’t around, so that probably meant that she’s in the restroom with two of her other followers. What Princess does is that every time she goes to the bathroom, she picks the two followers that are her favorites on that day to go in with her.

Looks like Julie wasn’t picked today.

Wait to state the obvious genius.

‘Shut up!’

Make me.

‘Uuugh!’

As Brick looked down at Julie, he had an uncaring expression on his face. Even when she felt up his arm to his shoulder and pressed her chest against his arm while batting her lashes at him. He looked unimpressed, until he glanced away from her.

And looked right at me.

I quickly opened my locker to hide my face, hoping that he didn’t see it was me. I started exchanging my books to and from my locker, and as I was reaching for my last book the locker door was slammed closed.

Right on my wrist.

I bit my lip to keep myself from screaming out in pain. I looked at who did it.

It was Julie.

'Of course.’

Who else would it have been?

She was sneering at me and there was anger in her eyes.

I saw the others coming up behind her.

“What are you, like, doing Julie?” one of the girls asked while twirling her hair.

Julie suddenly grinned and pushed on the locker door even more.

“Oh, I was just trying to help the Frea- I mean, Blossy close her locker. It seems to be stuck though.” Julie answered while pushing harder on the door.

I bit my lip harder in response.

“I think the locker is stuck because her hand is still in it.” Boomer’s voice said.

Butch leaned over towards his little brother so that he could get a look at what Boomer was seeing, then he nodded.

“Yep, her hand is definitely in there.” Butch states.

Boomer subtly rolls his eyes.

“Oh, whoopsy! I totally didn’t see that. Silly me!” Julie said as she giggled 'stupidly', acting oblivious.

She finally stopped pushing against the locker door and I pulled my hand free. She opened her mouth to probably give a fake apology but the bell rang first, causing her to shut her mouth and grin wickedly at me before catching sight of Princess and flouncing off towards her with the other girls following behind.

That left the Ruffs, and herself, standing there.

I looked at my damaged wrist and saw that there was a bloodied line on the front and back of it, and bruises already forming around the cuts. I got my final textbook out of the locker with my good hand.

The Boys were still standing there, staring at me.

Boomer squinted his eyes at me then shook his head, sighing. He made a head motion to Butch, then walked away.

Butch scoffed but followed anyway.

Then there were two.

Brick kept his eyes on me.

I could feel it, even through the still open locker door. I let out a small sigh as I finally closed the door. I jumped a little because I hadn’t expected Brick to be right behind the door when I closed it.

He was leaning his shoulder against the locker beside mine, facing me. Well, kind of, as I was shorter than him.

I looked up briefly to his face, catching his eyes, then quickly looked to the floor.

I had only just met him again today and I had embarrassed myself in front of him three times already. I couldn’t face him, no matter how much he looked down at me for being so pathetic. I can still remember a time where I could face him, where I did face him. I was braver then, and I had a lot more to live for. But now, at this moment, I had nothing. I am nothing.

I felt tears pricking at my eyes, from the physical pain as well as the mental and emotional.

His hand came into view, seemingly reaching for my injured wrist.

I flinched away.

His hand stopped, then retracted back.

I heard his derogative scoff as he pushed himself off the locker and walked past me.

He didn’t say a word as he did so.

But he didn’t have to…because that one sound was worse than any insult he could’ve given me.

He used to make that sound when we were kids but it was always directed towards the frantically scurrying civilians below our floating forms.

Back then, Brick didn’t know a whole lot of big words but he did know some. Two in particular.

Superior, and…

Inferior.

He especially liked the word inferior. He used it all the time. It was his reasoning for attacking the Innocents when I asked him why he did it.

“Because they’re all inferior to me.” he would say.

Then he would make that sound.

But the one being he never called inferior was…me.

His counterpart.

His equal.

I didn’t realize I was shaking until I slumped against my locker.

That sound echoed in my mind.

It meant I was no longer his equal.

I was nothing to him.

I was…inferior.

I felt the tears unbiddenly slide down my cheeks, as I tilted my head back against the cold metal behind me.

Who knew the scorn of my former enemy and rival could hurt so much?

After I had put myself back together enough to be presentable, I went from class to class until it was time for my last class of the day.

I went inside and sat in my usual seat, which was somewhat in the middle. I shared this class with all of my friends.

Mary was to my right, Joey was in front of her, Clara was beside Joey and in front of me.

“Hi Blossom. How are you?” said a voice from my left.

I looked over to see the last person out of my group of friends.

Kimaya (Kim) Sumi Cooke*: She is a 17 year old Indian/Japanese female with slanted green eyes, olive skin, and long black hair. She is very peaceful, loves to cook, a good friend and an overall nice person. She is a good listener and normally has good advice. Her parents run a restaurant called Cooke's Culinary.

I tilted my head side to side.

“Oh, one of those days huh?” Kim asked.

I sighed and nodded.

Kim reached over and gave me a sympathetic pat on the shoulder.

I gave her a small smile in return.

“Hey Kimi. How’s my girl doing?” Jeff said as he wheeled himself to the desk in front of Kim’s, but not before he gave her a kiss on the cheek.

Kim blushed slightly then cleared her throat.

“I’m doing good, but Jeffry, I’ve told you about the rules on Public Displays of Affection haven’t I?” Kim said casually.

Jeff grinned at his girlfriend.

“Awe, come on Kim. Just because you’re a part of the Student Council doesn’t mean you have to follow every rule.” Jeff stated.

Kim gave him a blank stare.

“Of course it does.” Kim responded back.

Jeff pouted and gave her his best puppy eyes.

“Aaw, but Kimi!” Jeff exclaimed.

Kim shook her head.

“No Jeffry.” Kim answered sternly.

Jeff huffed and continued to pout.

Clara, Mary, and I giggled at their little affectionate spat.

Joey outright laughed.

Just then three figures in blue, green, and red entered the classroom.

They looked around for a bit before deciding where they were going to sit.

Butch sat off to the side where most of the girls sat, sitting in the middle of them all.

Boomer went and sat a little ways away from Butch, presumably to keep an eye on the Green Ruff.

Brick took a little more time, observing carefully where he wanted to sit. He looked over towards his younger brothers and instantly shook his head at the sight of girls already being all over Butch, with Boomer looking like he’d rather be anywhere but right there. Then he looked over to the other side of the room and grimaced slightly. Finally, he looked to the middle, where he saw me.

I cast my eyes down to my desk.

He sighed in irritation, then reluctantly made his way to the middle.

Where he sat right behind me.

I felt holes practically being pierced through my skull. I looked over to the side of the room that Brick had grimaced at, only to see Julie glaring poisonous daggers at me.

Oh yeah, I forgot that she was in this class.

Lucky you, right?

‘Can you just…not.’

I quickly avoided her glare and wondered what horrible thing she was going to have her mother-*ahem* I mean- parents do to me when we got 'home'.

Why did Brick have to sit near me anyway? He already thinks I’m not worth his time, so why choose to sit there?

The teacher then chose that moment to walk into the room, interrupting my thoughts.

“Okay class, it seems-.” she was cut off by a snore coming from one of the darker back corners.

She put her hands on her hips and tapped her foot in irritation.

“MR. SMITH!” she said loudly.

There was a sleepy grunt/snort as the sleeping boy woke up, looking blearily at the teacher.

“I would very much appreciate it if you wouldn’t fall asleep in my class.” she said, trying to sound like she didn’t want to throw something at the boy.

Some of the students giggled/snickered at the spectacle.

He put his hood down and glared at the amused onlookers.

“Tch, whatever.” he grumbled, laying his head back down on his folded arms.

Right, Bud is in this class too.

Oh joy.

‘Agreed.’

The teacher took some calming breaths, then began to speak again.

“As I was saying. We have two more new students, they couldn’t come earlier in the day due to all the paperwork that comes with transferring students from other countries to here. Girls, please come in.” the teacher called after her announcement.

Two girls entered the classroom, standing at the front.

One had on a bright sundress and white wedges.

The other was wearing mostly dark clothing.

“Alright girls, please say your full names, your ages, and where you’re from.” the teacher said.

The one in the sundress bounced up.

“Hi, my name is Beatrisa Delciñe Adelita*. I’m 17 and I’m from Madrid, Spain. I hope we can all be friends!” she said happily with a wide genuine smile, she had a slight Spanish accent.

Beatrisa had bright sunny blonde hair that was in two low pigtails that went past her shoulder blades. She had peachy skin, and her eyes were baby blue.

The other girl then stepped up.

“The name’s Berenice Valerie Cenewig*. 17. Boston, Massachusetts. Mess with me and I’ll mess you up.” she threatened with a heavy Boston accent, glaring at the whole room.

Berenice had messy black pixie-cut hair with lime green throughout it. She had really tanned skin. She also had piercings in her ears, including ear cuffs, and on the side of her nose. Her eyes were emerald green.

“Well, um…thank you girls for those very, lovely introductions. You may go find a seat now.” the teacher said.

My friends' mouths were agape as they looked at the new girls, then to me.

The world was silent around me.

It seemed like time and everything else had come to a complete halt.

My eyes were wide.

It felt like my heart had stopped.

Because, right there in front of me was…

Bubbles. Buttercup.

End Chapter 2

Wheeeew! That was a doozy, wasn’t it?

*1- Amaryllis and Damia are both Greek names.

Amaryllis= Fresh flower

Damia= Nature

*2- Jeffry, Wilbur, and Sproule are English names.

Jeffry= Peaceful

Wilbur= Willful; bright

Sproule= Active

*3- Dennis is a Greek name.

Dennis= Wild; frenzied

*4- Rai is a Japanese name.

Rai= Lightning; thunder

*5- Issac is a Dutch name.

Issac= Laughter

*6- Halima is an African American name, Allaire is a French name.

Halima= Gentle; kind

Allaire= Cheerful

*7- Kimaya is an Indian name, Sumi is a Japanese name.

Kimaya= Devine

Sumi= Clear refined

*8- Beatrisa, Delciñe, and Adelita are Spanish names.

Beatrisa= Brings happiness

Delciñe= Sweet

Adelita= Kind or winged

*9- Berenice, Valerie, and Cenewig are English names.

Berenice= Victorious

Valerie= Valiant; strong

Cenewig= Bold warrior

Hope you all enjoyed!

Until next time.

~Ash141

Chapter Text

Talking

“Speaking”

Descriptions

'Thoughts/flashbacks'

Strange voice in head

Blossom’s POV:

I was snapped out of it by Mary and Kim, shaking my shoulders lightly.

“Blossom?” Kim said gently.

“Are you okay?” Mary asked in the same tone.

Clara, Joey, and Jeff were all staring at me worriedly.

I nodded smally.

Kim and Mary gave my shoulders a squeeze before turning back to face the front of the class, as did my other friends.

I watched as Beatrisa (Bubbles) and Berenice (Buttercup) contemplated where to sit.

Beatrisa happily bounded over to the side where Julie was sitting, smiling and waving to some students in that area as she sat three seats in front of Julie.

Berenice scowled as the only seat left was the one two seats to the side of Butch, who still had girls ogling over and flirting with him. She rolled her eyes at the scene but took her seat anyway.

After that, class started, but I couldn’t really pay attention. I was too lost in my own thoughts.

Only when the bell rung to signal the end of the school day did I snap out of it.

Everyone was already packing up and leaving.

I wanted to confront Beatrisa and Berenice but they had already left. I sighed at the missed opportunity but tried not to dwell on it, instead I gathered up my own things and began to head out the class with my friends.

We told each other our goodbyes as we had to split up to go to our lockers.

I quickly got the books I needed for homework and left my locker to go outside.

Once there, I caught a glimpse of the Boys.

Boomer was under the shade of a tree, fiddling with something in his hands.

Butch was talking to this girl that looked aggravated with him but she soon melted when he tilted her head up by the chin with his fingers and said something to her, making her giggle.

Brick then snapped his fingers and made a head motion.

Boomer stood up and pocketed whatever he had been fiddling with before he dusted himself off and went over towards Brick.

Butch took a little longer, choosing to continue talking to the girl.

Brick said something.

Butch leaned over and whispered something in the girl’s ear, causing her to blush  but she nodded anyway. Butch smirked and winked as he went and stood beside Brick, who would have smacked him if Butch hadn’t ducked in time, snickering at his older brother's attempt.

Brick, instead of strangling Butch like he clearly wanted to, blew a puff of smoke in Butch’s face.

Butch hacked and coughed, fanning the smoke away from his face.

Boomer snickering at the display before him.

Brick huffed then floated above the ground, his brothers following.

Then they were gone in streaks of dark red, green, and blue.

After they had disappeared from sight I turned to observe the rest of the courtyard.

Students were all in their groups, talking, laughing, or just goofing off.

I caught sight of Bud laying on a stone bench under the shade of a tree.

It was pretty warm out since it was still August, so most everyone was in a shady spot.

Except, of course, Princess and her posse, who always stood in the center of the courtyard at the fountain. It was their spot, and no one else was allowed in it unless Princess gave the okay, which she never did.

Amongst her posse was, of course, Julie. She sat right beside Princess on the marble bench at the fountain, listening to her speak and hanging on to her every word. She nodded along obediently to whatever Princess said, but never speaking a word herself unless specifically asked.

'Like a sheep.’

More like a wolf in sheep's clothing.

'Very expensive sheep’s clothing.’

There was suddenly a honking sound.

I looked away from the 'it' crowd to see the Smiths' limo pull up.

As Julie was leaving she gave Princess one of those side to side air kisses before walking to the limo and getting in the back.

I made my way to the limo but stopped on the way to tap Bud on his shoulder.

He grumbled loudly and upon opening his eyes to see me, he growled.

“What?” Bud said lowly.

I looked to the ground at his glare.

“The limo is here.” I answered quietly.

He looked around me and saw the limo. He then grumbled again as he forced himself up from the bench. He stuffed his hands in his pockets and slouched as he walked. He got on the opposite side of the limo than his sister, slamming the door when he got in.

I opened the front passenger side door and got in, closing it gently after.

Charlie then started the limo, and we were off.

Back at 'home', I went straight to the kitchen to prepare the dinner that no one was going to eat. I spent two hours fixing everything and had just finished setting the table when Harold and Marianne got home.

Marianne immediately pushed me away from the table and gathered the full plates of food, dumping all their contents in the trash. She then put the plates in the sink for me to wash, even though they had a state of the art dishwasher. She set out some leftover dinner from yesterday and called everyone down to eat, sitting down herself when everyone (minus me) was seated at the table.

“So, how was everyone’s day?” Marianne asked her family after taking a bite of food.

No one answered.

I could almost feel when her eye slightly twitched.

“Honey?” she asked in a sugary-sweet voice.

Harold’s attention immediately went to his wife.

“My day was good. How was yours Dear?” Harold said with a small amount of shakiness in his voice.

Marianne’s eyes immediately lit up as the attention fell on her.

“Where do I even begin?! They had me running around all day, then we had a meeting about the 'good for mankind' project which they wouldn’t even listen to any of my ideas, so that was a waste of time! Then there was that promotion that I didn’t get because they instead decided to give it to that snooty stuck-up ass kissing whore! Oh, but don’t even get me started because I don’t want to talk about it!” Marianne exclaimed, taking a savage bite after she was finished talking.

“Okay. Buddy, I’ve told you. No hoods up at the table.” Harold said.

I could tell that Bud was glaring at his father. I heard the rustle of clothes as Bud put his hood down.

“My name is Bud. Not Buddy. Don’t call me Buddy.” Bud growled.

Harold gulped.

“A-alright son.” Harold responded.

Bud rolled his eyes and continued to viciously stab his food with a fork.

Marianne still happily ate.

“Julie sweetie, how was your day today?” Marianne asked her daughter.

Julie then went on a rant about her day, much like her mother did. Talking about how hard and boring her classes were, how Princess didn’t choose her to go to the restroom with her, and all the other things she finds horrible about school.

“Oh yeah, we got all these new students today too. Two foreign girls or whatever, and these three totally good-looking guys. They all looked good but there was this one in particular that was hot, like super incredibly sexy hot.” Julie said, fanning herself with her hand.

Marianne made an interested humming sound as she eyed her daughter mischievously.

“Hmm, was there now?” Marianne pried, looking for details.

Julie nodded.

I was just beginning to wash the last plate.

“Yeah, he had auburn hair and a great body. He was so a bad boy, and his eyes…were red. Like, they weren’t even contacts, it was his real eye color.” Julie described, gushing.

Marianne set her chin on her hand, her elbow on the table to prop up her head.

“He sounds like a very intriguing and mysterious guy.” Marianne commented.

Again Julie nodded.

I scrubbed this one tough spot on the plate that seemed like it didn’t want to ever come off.

He so is. I kept trying to talk to him or catch his eye throughout the day but it seems like something else always caught his attention instead, or more like…someone else.” Julie hissed.

I felt the glaring holes in my back and immediately froze up at the realization that she was talking about me.

Her mother must have come to the same conclusion as she sat up straight and pushed her plate to the side.

“Tell me sweetie, who was this someone?” Marianne asked.

“Her. She kept ruining my chances with him!” Julie hissed, presumably pointing in my direction.

I heard a chair scraping on the floor as someone pushed back from the table.

“Oh, she did now, did she?” Marianne said calmly.

Footsteps then sounded on the floor until they stopped right behind me.

I was completely frozen, still clutching the plate as I felt a hand grip my shoulder.

“Yeah, she totally did! I think she did it on purpose to! Like, me and him were having a lovely conversation when she walked up to the lockers and stole his attention! He wouldn’t even look at me after he saw her, he even picked sitting behind her in class instead of me!” Julie went on.

‘She forgot to mention the part where she slammed the locker door on your wrist.’

How convenient huh?

The grip became tighter.

“And what on Earth gave you the idea that you could take something so important from my precious daughter, hmm?” Marianne purred in my ear.

I shook my head vehemently.

“No. I-.” I was instantly cut off as I was yanked around to face the angry Smith mother and abruptly slapped across the face, causing me to drop the plate.

It fell to the floor and shattered, pieces scattering everywhere.

My head turned to the side from the force of the slap.

Marianne glared.

“Did I give you permission to speak?! I don’t think I did, did I?” Mrs. Smith asked.

I shook my head slowly, keeping my mouth shut.

“Now, why do you think she did that sweetheart?” Marianne questioned, turning back to her daughter.

Julie glared and pouted.

“She probably wanted the Hottie all to herself!” Julie remarked.

'Does she even remember his name?!’

I seriously doubt it.

Marianne turned back to me.

“Really? How very selfish of her.” Marianne responded.

I shook my head again, wanting so desperately to tell the truth but knowing that I probably wouldn’t be able to.

“That’s not what it looked like to me.” Bud mumbled, pushing the food around on his plate with a knife now.

Julie turned her glare to her brother.

“Excuse me?!” Julie exclaimed.

Mrs. Smith turned towards her son with a raised brow.

“What did it look like then Bud?” Marianne questioned.

Bud put his elbow on the table and rested his cheek on his palm whilst still pushing his food around his plate, looking bored.

“Looked like the guy was trying to avoid Jules, so he sat behind her *motions to me with his head* instead, which she didn’t seem to like. It actually looked like she wanted him to sit anywhere but there.” Bud says boredly.

Julie’s face turns red with anger.

“He was so NOT avoiding me! And I’ve already told you like a million times not to call me Jules! I hate that!” Julie loudly proclaimed.

Bud scoffed.

“Really? You seem to just loove it when the Morbucks chick calls you that though.” Bud says back.

Julie glares harder at her brother.

“That’s different! She’s my friend, and her name is Princess!” Julie shouted.

Bud rolled his eyes.

“Friend, right. You mean she’s the one you suck up to. You know, I bet if she asked you to, you’d actually kiss her as-.” Bud was cut off.

“MOM!” Julie screamed in a whine.

“BUDDY! That is no way to talk to your sister! Go to your room right now and don’t come out until morning!” Marianne yelled.

Bud roughly pushed away from the table.

“Tch. Whatever.” he muttered as he pulled up his hood, stomping up the stairs and down the hall until he reached his room where he closed his door with a loud slam.

Harold nervously continued to take small bites of his food, hands slightly shaking.

Julie sniffled as she 'cried' into her napkin.

“Princess IS my friend! A-and I would never d-do that!” Julie 'wailed'.

Marianne walked over to the table to grab her daughter’s hand, patting it soothingly.

“Of course she is honey, and I know you wouldn’t. He didn’t mean it, Bud is just going through a phase.” Marianne comforts.

Julie huffs, dabbing at her (dry) eyes with her napkin.

“He’s always going through a phase! His whole life has been a phase! He’s mean and horrible and I wish I had never had him as my brother! I HATE HIM SO MUCH!” Julie screamed, balling her napkin in her fist and throwing it on the table.

‘What a terrible thing to say!’

Wow. Harsh.

Instead of reprimanding her daughter for her harsh words towards her brother, Marianne set her hate-filled glare at me. She came over to me and I shrank under her gaze.

“This is all your fault. So, you better have a good explanation as to why that boy chose to talk to you over my daughter.” Mrs. Smith hissed venomously in my face.

I shook a bit while looking down.

“W-we knew each other wh-when we were children. H-he must have recognized me and j-just wanted to ask m-me some questions. Th-that's all that h-happened, I-I swear. I-I had n-no i-intention of gaining h-his a-attention.” I explained to the best of my ability while stuttering, purposely leaving out the part of him being my counterpart and ex-arch rival from when I was still a hero.

Marianne eyed me, tapping her foot in contemplation before coming to a decision.

“Pick up every single piece of plate that you broke, then when you’re done go straight to your quarters. You’ll get no dinner tonight.” Marianne said, then went back to finish her own dinner with the remainder of her family.

I crouched on the floor and instantly began to pick up the broken pieces of the plate. Once I got all of them, I threw them away then I went to my ‘quarters’ as Marianne called it. I got dressed in some loose shorts and an old worn-out t-shirt as my pajamas, then I laid on the couch that I call a bed.

My stomach rumbled but I ignored it.

I was used to not eating much after all. I usually just ate a little for breakfast, sometimes I get lunch at school, and I was really able to eat dinner so the hunger would eventually go away.

As I lie on the couch I began to think about my sisters and how they were back. We could finally be a family again.

Before I drifted off to sleep I thought up some small poems, as I do occasionally when it’s just my thoughts and I.

Raven hair

Emerald eyes

A strong body

Just like the personality

That is who she is.

Pools of Baby Blue

Bright blonde locks

A sunny smile

And a warm heart to match

That is who she is.

  A triumphant laugh

A joyful giggle

A victorious pose

A happy wave

Spice

Sugar

Toughest Fighter

Joy and Laughter

That is who they are.

In the morning I did my normal routine of getting ready; doing the chores, making breakfast, and waking Julie and Bud.

For once I was excited for school as it meant I would get to reconnect with my sisters again after all this time.

As we arrived at school Bud went to brood in a shady area like always, and Julie immediately bounded over to her 'gal pals' by the fountain.

Streaks of Blue, Green, and Red landed not long after.

The Green being flocked by girls instantly.

The Blue standing a distance away.

And Red seen by an overexcited Julie, who bounced in place and pulled at Princess’s arm while pointing. Julie then went to the Red Ruff and hugged his arm, pulling him to join the group of populars.

Once there, green eyes narrowed and red eyes narrowed back. Instant recognition on both ends.

One recognized as a whiny rich brat that tried to join their all boy group then attempted to kill them with different vehicles of weaponry.

The other recognized as the leader of the rude boys who wouldn’t let her join their team then utterly destroyed her expensive weapon machines.

Julie was oblivious to the heated glares between her 'bestie' and 'love interest'.

'Guess the Red Ruff is a part of the Popular crowd now.’

Are you surprised?

'Not in the slightest.’

I didn’t see Buttercup or Bubbles so they must not have arrived yet.

I couldn’t wait to talk to them. Then maybe my life could go back to being somewhat normal. I could finally confide in someone again.

I went inside to my locker, not being knocked to the floor for once. While I was opening it, I caught a glimpse of black hair and lime green. I quickly switched out my books and closed my locker before going after her.

“Buttercup.” I called.

She kept walking.

“Buttercup.” I called a little louder, pushing my way through the people in the hall now.

She still continued to walk.

I finally caught up to her and was about to touch her shoulder.

“Buttercu-.” I was cut off by her turning around to face me with a scowl on her lips.

“What the hell do you want?!” she snapped.

“I-.” I began but was interrupted again.

“Who even are you?!” she asked, hands on her hips.

That shocked me, but before I could respond she spoke.

“And who the hell is Buttercup?! What kind of stupid name is that anyway?!” she said, crossing her arms now.

I just stared at her.

She scoffed and rolled her eyes.

“Whatever, you’re crazy and I have to get to Homeroom. Later Psycho Chick.” she said as she turned around and walked away.

I felt people bumping against me as I just stood there in the hall, staring after her retreating back. I finally snapped out of it when the bell went off. I walked to my Homeroom in a daze, then sat in my seat.

The Green and Blue Ruffs arrived before any of my friends.

Butch was, of course, surrounded by a group of girls; who he was saying goodbye to individually, which was blocking the door for others to get into the classroom.

Boomer just looked like he was so done. He reached into the center of the girls and grabbed Butch, pulling him into the room by his hood.

“Hey, hey! Hands off Boom!” Butch said, swatting at his little brother’s hand.

Not releasing his grip, Boomer tossed Butch the opposite direction of the door.

“Knock it off Butch. Your harem is blocking the door.” Boomer replied.

Butch huffed and grumbled but finally dismissed his entourage with a wink and a wave.

They all left in a flurry of giggles, some even bold enough to flirtatiously wink back at the green-sporting Ruff.

Other people belonging to this Homeroom finally were able to make their way in, including Buttercup.

Boomer and Butch had already sat in their seats beside and in front of me.

Buttercup went to a seat in one of the back corners of the room. She sat amongst the few rocker-looking students that she had already seemed to befriend.

Though I couldn’t use my powers like I used to be able to, I still had super senses.

I could hear Buttercup whispering to her new friends as if she were sitting right next to me.

“Oh great, I can’t believe I have Homeroom with that wacko. She stopped me in the middle of the hallway, calling me this stupid name. It was a big waste of time.” she said.

One of her friends glanced in my direction then looked back at Buttercup, nodding.

“Yeah, it’s probably for the best if you stay away from her. She’s a freak, at least, that’s what the 'It crowd' calls her. The Populars have it out for her, and it’s better if you don’t get on their bad sides.” he advised.

Buttercup hummed her agreement as she looked at me, judging me.

I saw a shift in movement from beside me in my peripheral vision.

Butch leaned back in his seat until only the two back legs of his chair were on the floor. He tilted his head all the way back then turned it to the side to stare at Buttercup in an upside down sideways-like way. He smirked then winked at her.

She scoffed and rolled her eyes for the second time that day, turning her back to both of us.

Butch grinned, sharpened incisors and canines showing. A glimmer was in his forest eyes as he continued to stare at Buttercu- Berenice's back.

I didn’t like that look.

Not at all.

He then looked at me, opening his mouth to speak.

But before any words could come out Boomer reached his hand out and slammed his palm flat down on Butch’s desk, without looking back once.

The desk hit the floor and Butch got lurched forward.

He let out a pained 'oof' as his stomach connected harshly with the edge of the desk. He groaned, his head resting on the desk. He took a deep breath before he slowly looked up at his little brother with a twitch in his eye. He leaned forward and attempted to wrap his hands around his blue brother’s neck.

I noticed Boomer’s hair getting slightly frizzy as a small layer of electricity surrounded him, keeping Butch from actually touching him lest he get shocked.

“Why you little…” Butch growls, shaking his hands in the air near his brother as if he was actually strangling him.

Boomer still didn’t turn around but I saw the corner of his mouth turn up in a smirk.

It was at that moment, before Butch could say electricity-be-damned and choke Boomer anyway, that the teacher decided to walk in.

He took one look at the two youngest Jojo brothers and cleared  his throat.

“Now settle down…class.” he said, giving the boys a pointed look.

Boomer’s smirk instantly dropped and he schooled a neutral expression on his face.

Butch, reluctantly, sat back in his seat. He huffed, arms crossed with a scowl on his lips.

After a little while the bell to get to first period rang.

Bu-Berenice slung her bag over her shoulder, throwing a sneer our way before turning away and walking out the door with her new group of friends.

Butch got this glint in his eye as he watched her leave, rising from his chair in a slow way and moving towards the door in an almost predatory manner.

I knew what he was about to do and I couldn’t let it happen, even if there wasn’t much I could do.

I got up quickly and fast walked after Butch, grabbing his jacket sleeve and pulling him into an unused side hallway.

He was so surprised by the sudden action that he let me pull him with practically no effort.

“Hey! What the f-?!” he began.

I turned him around to face me but kept a firm grip on his sleeve.

‘Your hand is shaking.’

Of course, it is. She’s a wuss.

‘No. She isn’t.’

She so is.

‘No. She’s not!’

Whatever you say.

'Hmmph.’

Ignoring what was going on in my mind, I steeled my nerves and looked Butch in the eyes.

They were almost glowing with anger.

“Y-you can’t! You can’t fight with Bu-Berenice!” I said loudly.

He scowled.

“You mean Buttercup?” he growled.

I shook my head.

“No, I mean Berenice. That’s who she is now.” I said.

He yanked his sleeve from my weakened grip and deepened his scowl.

“That’s Buttercup. Annoying, boyish tough-ass Buttercup. My counterpart. Who knows how to put up a fight and take some major hits. Who I’m about to find and fight. It’s been a long time since I’ve had some real fun.” he growled with a dark grin spreading across his face as he pointed towards the way he last saw Berenice go, about to go in that direction himself.

“You can’t! You can’t fight her!” I say.

“Why not?!” he snarls, turning to loom over me threateningly.

I flinch back but stay in place.

“Because she’s not the Buttercup you used to know. She doesn’t remember you, or me. She doesn’t even remember who she was!” I said, raising my voice.

Butch blinked.

“Then I guess I’ll just have to beat her memories into her.” he said casually while cracking his knuckles.

I jumped in his way as he moved.

“No! If she can’t even remember who she is, then she can’t remember that she has powers. You’ll hurt her.” I spoke softly.

He rose a brow.

“You say that as if I care.” he states.

Frustrated tears pricked the corners of my eyes.

“Please, wait. I-I'll do anything!” I shouted.

He snorted.

“Not interested.” he brushes it off.

The tears get bigger.

“I'll-I'll…I'll do all your homework and take down all the notes for you! I’ll make sure you pass every one of your classes!” I yelled desperately.

He stopped and pivoted.

“Pass every class? Do all of my homework you say?” he repeated, stepping up to me.

I nodded quickly.

“Yes.” I said.

He seemed to contemplate this, then a grin split his face.

“Alright, we have a deal. I won’t mess with Butts and you’ll make sure I pass all of my classes so I won’t have to do a thing.” Butch repeats in confirmation while holding his hand out.

I cautiously grabbed his hand to shake it.

He shook it a few times but when I tried to pull my hand back, he tightened his grip.

I gasped as he yanked me close to him, seizing my wrist in his big hand.

Tears of pain welled up in my eyes as Butch was grasping my injured wrist, where Julie had slammed it in my locker the previous day.

Butch glared down at her with threatening, glowing green eyes.

“But…if you don’t keep your end of the bargain then I’ll do much more than just hurting Buttercup, I’ll destroy her. Do you understand?” he whispered menacingly.

I could tell by the sound of his voice and the look in his eyes that it wasn’t just a threat…

It was a promise.

I nodded quickly.

“With words.” he growled, the hand holding my wrist glowing green, as did the fist being pointed towards my face.

“I-I-I u-understand. I-I’ll k-keep m-my w-w-word. I-I promise.” I stuttered, quivering in his grasp.

He stared at me for what seemed like forever.

“Tch.” he scoffed, releasing me with what he considered a 'light' shove.

I stumbled back, almost falling if it hadn’t been for the wall behind me. I pulled my hurt wrist to my chest, caressing it and trying to will away the pain.

Butch casually put his hands in his pockets then turned his back to me, only stopping to slightly tilt his head towards me.

“Meet me here at the end of the day to collect my homework. We'll meet at this same place in the morning so you can give it back, completed. M'kay?” he says.

I squeak out a yes.

Satisfied, he sends me one last smirk then saunters around the corner and out of sight.

I sigh as I slump a little.

“What have I gotten myself into?” I mumble.

‘T r o u b l e.’

  Later that day, during lunch....

I had just gotten a tray of food from the lunch line when I saw But- I mean, Berenice sit down with her new rocker friends.

I then saw Butch walk in that direction and instantly tensed until he walked right past her to go sit at a table occupied by some cheerleaders.

He plopped down on a chair amongst them then tilted his head backwards over the back of it. He stared directly at me, sending me an upside down smirk and a wink before sitting himself upright, slinging both of his arms around a cheerleader on either side of him.

I shuddered and forced the tenseness out of my body. I turned and walked towards the table with my friends, as I reached it I saw Bubbles talking to a group of animal activist.

That particular group loved animals, so much to the point that they refused to eat anything meat related. Some were vegetarians, and some were full on vegan. Not that that was a bad thing, in fact, most of their skin was clean and glowy from the lack of grease, and their bodies looked incredibly healthy and well-fit.

She looked to be enjoying the conversation she was lost in and I didn’t want to interrupt her but I just had to know if she remembered anything…if she remembered me.

Don’t get your hopes up.

‘Shush you.’

I set my tray down on the table and told my friends I’d be right back, then I approached the table Bubbles was sitting at.

“Hi Bub-Beatrisa.” I said when I was close enough.

She looked back at me, a friendly smile on her lips.

“Oh, hello.” she responded.

I rubbed my arm a bit awkwardly.

“Can I- uh- speak to you alone for a minute?” I asked.

She gave me a contemplating look.

I fidgeted nervously.

“Of course! Give me a second guys, I’ll just be a moment.” she replied to her new friends before getting up to follow me to an unoccupied section of the lunchroom.

When we stopped she turned to me, waiting patiently for what I had to say.

I opened and closed my mouth a few times, trying to find a way to say the right words. Finally, I just decided to go for it.

“Does the name Bubbles mean anything to you? Does it sound familiar…at all?” I asked.

She paused, seeming to be contemplating it deeply.

A spark of hope went through me.

“No, it doesn’t. I’m sorry.” Beatrisa said apologetically.

The spark died instantly.

“I-it's okay.” I said, trying not to sound too disappointed.

Beatrisa's smile fell just the tiniest bit, almost unnoticeably. Her eyes shined with concern.

I didn’t want her to feel bad so I gave her a little smile.

“I guess you just have one of those faces.” I said.

She giggled.

“Yeah, I guess I do.” she replied.

I paused for a moment.

“Thank you for stopping to talk to me.” I mentioned.

She grinned.

“No problem.” she said, before walking back to her table, turning to give me one final wave before sitting down and continuing her conversation from earlier with her friend.

I lifted my hand slightly in a half-attempt of a wave.

Told you so.

 I let out a sigh as I returned to mine and my friends' table, slumping down in my chair. I could feel my friends looking at each other in worry, trying to decide which one of them should speak up.

Finally, one of them did.

“What happened Bloss?” Clara asked.

I looked at all of them but as I opened my mouth to speak the lunchroom door abruptly opened, causing the whole room to quiet down.

Princess strutted in, followed closely by her popular posse. She made her way to the center of the room, two of her followers instantly spreading a white tablecloth over the table and setting a newly fluffed gold silk pillow on her seat before her posterior even had a chance to reach it. They did the same for the rest of the chairs at the table, except in different colors. They even lit candles on the table as the rest of the group took their seats.

The only one that seemed to be missing was…

Everyone’s attention was drawn back to the entrance as two people stood there.

One was the missing member of Princess’s clique.

Julie.

Who was on the arm of…

Brick.

Their expressions could not be any more different from the other's.

Julie was preening like a peacock with a prideful, triumphant grin.

Brick’s face showed absolutely no emotion, but his eyes.

I had seen that look in those eyes many times.

There was a raging fire burning in those crimson pools, and they looked like they were about to incinerate everything and everyone in his path.

Until, of course, Julie started walking towards her 'friends' table while pulling him along.

As they arrived Princess and Brick gave each other hateful glares, much to Julie’s obliviousness.

I could overhear their conversation with my heightened hearing.

“I’m incredibly sorry Julie but it doesn’t seem that there’s anywhere for our guest to sit.” Princess said, biting out the word guest in the most professional way possible.

Brick rolled his eyes.

“What a shame.” he deadpanned.

Julie giggled 'cutely'.

“There IS a place for him to sit though. It’s right…here.” Julie says as she pushes Brick down into a seat with a pink pillow.

Her seat.

Princess clears her throat.

“That’s all well and good Julie but now where will YOU sit?” Princess asked as if she were speaking to a child.

Julie giggled even more.

“Here.” Julie replied, then immediately plopped herself in Brick’s lap.

Seeing how adamant Julie was about Brick sitting at her table, Princess sighed.

“Wonderful.” Princess muttered.

Julie grinned.

A wolf whistle sounded from somewhere in the room.

Red lasers instantly hit Butch’s chair, disintegrating it and sending Butch sprawling on the floor.

Manic laughter erupted from where Butch lay.

Brick continued to glare in Butch’s general direction, then his gaze goes blank as Julie starts gossiping with the group of other popular girls.

I see the way his fists slightly clench every time Julie 'accidentally' brushes her hand against his chest when she’s making gestures, grips his arm in excitement, or shifts/bounces on his lap when someone says something 'so totally unbelievable'.

“Ooo, poor guy.” I hear from my left.

I turn my head towards Joey.

“I mean, I know he was(is?) your archenemy or whatever, but I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy.” Joey says with a pitying glance towards Brick.

Mary and Clara nod in agreement.

“It seems like she has sunk her claws deep in this one.” Mary observes.

Joey grimaces.

“Doesn’t look like she’s letting go anytime soon either. So, I’ll say again. Poor guy.” Joey says.

All three of my friends glance at the popular table, then just as quickly avert their gazes away.

I look over myself, burning crimson eyes meeting my own soft pink ones. I turn away just as my friends had but the feeling of eyes on me didn’t disappear.

Trying to ignore the burning gaze now directed at me I decided to continue the conversation we had started earlier.

“About earlier…” I began.

Mary, Joey, and Clara all turned, giving me their undivided attention.

“She doesn’t remember. Neither of them do. Bubbles and Buttercup don’t remember anything. My sisters don’t remember me.” I said quietly, my voice breaking slightly.

Clara took my hand and squeezed it gently, Mary scooted closer to me while Joey had a deep frown on his face.

“It’ll be alright Bloss. Everything will be alright.” Joey muttered.

No, it won’t.

And for once, the other voice was silent.

End Chapter 3

How will Blossom cope with this?! Not to mention her deal with Butch?!

Well, at least she has some good friends to stay by her side.

I can’t wait to hear what you guys thought of these chapters.

Until next time!

~Ash141