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Chapter Text

WILBUR

1:28 pm

4th period [ACADEMIC]

I felt someone grabbing my shoulder and shaking it. I raised my head to see Jared. He mumbled something and walked away. I rubbed my eyes and stared at him. I hated how nonchalant he was. I wanted a reason to be angry at him but he has been far too quiet for me to get irate. By “quiet” I mean he doesn’t bother me as much, for example, the class was almost over and I fell asleep at the beginning of it yet he didn’t wake me up then. But we all know we’ll probably get into an argument next academic period. 

5th period 

The council gets way too many benefits. Want me to prove it? First of all, he doesn’t even have to participate in the gym. So while everyone else is sweating to the end of the world, Jared just sits there looking pretty. The council also gets these uniforms that have the shoulders exposed, and during winter, they get new liveries. How cute. 

Wait- what am I doin- aaaahahHHHHHHAHHGHGGHGHJHK

Now I have to sit next to him because I fell and scraped my knees deeply. I looked over at Jared, who was talking to the coach. I heard Coach Lerrien conversing with him. “Can you clean the scrapes alone? I can help.” I didn’t understand what he was saying. Jared spoke “No worries, I can do it myself.” Then it hit me. Jared has to clean MY scraps. The normal human would wonder why it was such a big deal, but I don’t trust Jared with an open wound. If my arm got cut off and he was the only one that could help, I still wouldn’t depend on him. 

I curled up, hoping that Jared wouldn’t come soon. But it appeared almost as if the time came by quicker. He walked in with a container & positioned his body on his knees. I glared at him and he ignored me. He took out some hydrogen peroxide, long tweezers, a cotton ball, some gauze, & medical tape. He looked me in the eyes. “I hate you,” I said. He sarcastically smiled. “I know” He replied, opening the bottle. “Can you back up? I don’t need to smell your minty fresh breath.” I told him. He leaned in closer. “I don’t bite.” He responded before placing his head in its original position. He dipped the cotton ball in the hydrogen peroxide using tweezers. “This will sting.” He placed it on my right knee & dabbed it until most of the blood was rubbed off. 

I winced in pain and whipped my head upwards. He stopped and threw away the cotton ball. “Funny. I thought you’d be a masochist.” I glared at him in reaction to his comment. 

He got some gauze and placed it on the wound. He finished it with some medical tape and smiled at me. I couldn’t tell if it was genuine or not. He dipped another cotton ball in hydrogen peroxide and restarted the process. Once finished. He threw away everything and walked out of the gym to put the case back. I sat there and sighed, looking at the gauze pads on my knees. 

Why are you so sweet, you dick.

6th period [ACADEMIC]

I doodled on my worksheet. I finished far too early and the teacher didn’t allow me to turn it in. I drew animals, anomalies, humanoids, & lines. I placed my head on the table, rubbing my knee. I wish I could sleep, but I had so many thoughts that got in the way of my peace. My mind flew in space.

“Bur? Wilbur~? Wilbur!” I heard the teacher yell my name. I looked up and she motioned for me to go in the hallway with her & Jared. I walked over and stood next to Jared, scratching the back of my head. “Do either of you two have time during the free period?” She said. We nodded. “After school?” Nodded again. “Okay, so Wilbur’s grades have been lower than usual, and I want him to go back to his original state.” I nodded slowly and Jared stood still. “So, I would like it if Jared tutored Wilbur during the free period, our class, & after-school hours whenever possible.” I froze. Silence. Jared had his usual mellow attitude, but I could hear his heavy breathing. I was going to protest, but I couldn’t find a valid thing to say, plus, I could make it worse. I stared at Jared, he stared at me. He turned his head to the teacher and slowly nodded. “That will be fine with me.” He said, exhaling. The teacher gazed at me, wanting me to say something. I nodded and looked at the ground. “But one question,” I said. They both looked my way. “You said your class, right? So doesn’t that mean I’ll be leaving your class just to learn the same topic?” She stared and nodded. “Yes, I think that all the people in the room are distracting you, so I thought maybe you’d learn better with one student.” I swallowed. “Where will we be during these moments?” Jared conveyed. “The library for in-school tutoring, though I recommend going to each other’s dorms for tutoring out of school hours, you guys can go wherever.” She replied, pushing her thick glasses. “You guys can go to the library today to get used to it since class just started and we won’t be doing any work throughout the rest of the day.” I was going to say no, but Jared stopped me. “That’d be lovely.” He said with a smile. He probably meant it in a sweet, accepting way, but all I could see was a malicious grin. 

We sat at a table, placing down our items. We didn’t have anything to talk about, so we just scrolled on our phones. “Hey, uh” Jared started talking. I looked up to him rubbing the back of his head while holding his phone with the other. “Can you give me your number?” He had a face of… embarrassment? Confusion? I don’t know any other expressions than his emotionless one. “What? Do you love me?” I said, dragging out the ‘love’ “No. I just need your contact information for our sessions,” He replied. 

“Hm, what kind of sessions?” I let the words spill out of my mouth impulsively. Am I seducing him? Yeah. Is it working? I don’t know. “Tutoring sessions, idiot. Also, you can’t take my brand.” He said in a mocking tone. 

What is this man even mocking? The brand? “And what is your brand? Seducing everyone so they can be your babies so they can have a life you never had? Are those daddy issues I smell?” I said, smiling. For the first time in the world, he looked defeated. He stared at the ground. “We’re getting off-topic. Your number, sir.” He said quietly. “Wow, ‘sir.’ how hot,” I flirtatiously added. He furrowed his perfectly symmetrical natural eyebrows. “Just give it…” he said. “Alright, Jarry Berry,” I gave him my contact information. “Don’t get too attached,” I said, smiling. “Oh, shut up,” Jared said. He went back on his phone. Did I just flirt with the guy I despise? Yes, and I’m proud of it. I looked down at my phone and saw a notification. It turns out Jarry has an Instagram, Tiktok, and many other social media. Fun. I was expecting him to post his genitalia or whatever but it was all his cat. He was almost a faceless content creator. He has shown his face, but that’s just a picture of him and Rosal, my ex. And whatever this photo is supposed to be. 

if you can't see it

How cute. He’s arching his back farther than Bella from Twilight, he’s so precious. I just wanna hug him! Around his neck… Tightly… 

Chapter Text

JARED

2:52

7th period [ACADEMIC]

I know I shouldn’t complain about the privileges the council has. But then again, we aren’t even a council. We’re people who are considered gifted & talented without signing up. Half the things that we can do aren’t possible. For example, Reece tried to help one of the SE kids, but then the teacher got mad at her? That’s the teacher’s fault, and she thought that maybe she could do it outside of class, especially after everyone reported him, but so many teachers are also rude to people with disabilities, disorders, conditions, diseases, & illnesses. Imagine how surprised they were when they found out about my disorder. Speaking of my disorder, I need a pill refill. I mean, sometimes I like my hallucinations, but most of the time it’s all an inconvenience.

I snapped back to reality. I saw the mess of a class. Sarah was eating edibles like happiness had ghosted her life and now she’s calling MTV, Yolanda was airdropping some person’s nudes, Wilbur is just dead (for legal reasons he’s asleep.), James was doing his work while crying, and Thomas was mixing gummies, expired soy sauce, & ramen noodles. That’s worse than the mix of things in my way. Schizophrenia, depression, PTSD, and insomnia. Now Thomas is adding marinara sauce, what the hell. I didn’t know what to do so I just improvised. Inhaling, then speaking. “Yolanda, if those are your nudes I understand why you’re a virgin, Sarah, give me one because I can’t deal with this, no one disturbs Wilbur, and Thomas, what in the-” Thomas stared at me and took a bite. I feel gross now. Ryan reaches over to tap Wilbur’s shoulder. I glared at him and he smiled, grabbing Wil’s shoulder and shaking it. I got up, slapped Ryan’s arm off, and walked away. Wilbur was now awake, confused as a koala. He looks at Ryan, who’s grabbing his arm, whoops, my bad. I go to Sarah’s desk and she gives me an edible, knowing that I’ll repay her later. I sat back down and silently cussed out everyone in my head. 

My thoughts were interrupted by a text message from Rosal. I grabbed my phone, which everyone was looking at now. 

___________________ 

Can you pick up some |

Aspirin? My head hurts|

Terribly   |

 __________________ |

/

 ___________________

|Sure, I was going to 

|Anyway Because 

|these fucks  are hurting

|my head harder than

|Something hard. 

|__________________

  \

___________________

I wish I was there to      |

Help :(                           |

  __________________|

/

___________________

|       Yeah, no, you can’t

|        since you aren’t in

|           the council and I

| could get in big trouble

|  If I let you take control

|___________________

\

I put my phone to the side. Looked up, more chaos, more food Thomas is adding to whatever is in his bowl. Tommy is learning new swears, Wilbur is learning sanity, James is still crying, Toby is crying with him, Yolanda is sending more nudes, Sarah ran out of edibles and is now crying.

That’s not the end. I just added a period. 

Techno is throwing potatoes around the room, Ryan is playing with his fingernails, I feel like crying, Wilbur has failed to learn sanity and is now hitting his head against his desk. 

Yeah, no, I’m not saying every one problem. I walked over to Wilbur and cupped his face to stop him. Click. I turned to see Sapnap taking a photo. “I thought I’d take some blackmail material.” He said. I rolled my eyes and let go of Wilbur, who looked traumatized. I checked the time. It was 3:32 pm. “It’s time to go guys. Don’t commit arson.” I said before walking out. Everyone ran past me to get to their lockers. I grabbed my things and walked up to the dorms. I know it’s weird that a high school has dorms, but I couldn’t care less. I dropped off my things and took out some aspirin. I gave it to Rosal, who was sick but was well enough to come tomorrow. I lay on our bed and texted Wilbur.

3:46

__________________

| Why do you hate me

\

___________________

Because you’re             |

Dating the person I      |

Love                            |

/

________________

You need a cookie.|

\

_______________________

I’ll take the cookie if you     |

send me a picture of Rosal. |

/

_______________________

I’ll send a bag of her puke   |

Instead.         |

\

_______________________

Nevermind. How about a   |

Picture of you? I wanna see|

how you look without the  |

Uniform                            |

/

_______________________________

| So do you want my nudes or…
\

_______________________________________

Depends on whether you’re open or not.|

/

I sent a photo of my cat instead and put my phone down. I checked the room for anything that didn’t belong to me. The only reason why Rosal was in my dorm was that she was sick.

TIMESKIP (The next day)

Rosal has left for her dorm, and I have to get ready. I took a quick shower, put on my uniform, covered my dark circles, drove to the drug store to get my pills, and went to the first-period class. The teacher wanted me there early so I can do extra work. The council usually does work online so they can do their job without having to be distracted by papers. 

After finishing, I sat on the seat that was assigned to me. I watched a barrel of students walk through the door. Everyone sat down and the teacher started yelling a lesson or whatever. I got up and walked around the classroom, looking at every student. I saw a few phones, snacks, cheat sheets, though we don’t have a test, books, drugs, and Sapnap holding a lighter. I took the lighter and walked off. I told the teacher I was going out to call someone and she let me leave. I walked out of the school.

Okay, there are multiple rumors about me going on. One is correct, and it’s that I smoke on campus. But I do it behind the food bar near the track so no cameras can see me. I took out a cigarette and put the end in my mouth. I lit the end with Sappy’s lighter and inhaled deeply. It was painful if I’m gonna be honest, but there’s a relief when you don’t feel numb anymore. I didn’t understand why I was numb, winter isn’t until a few months from now. Oh well, now I have to find a place to hide the cigarette. Last time, someone found the cigarette, and since I stay there almost every day, a rumor started. This time, I hid it in a space between the wall and a slab of metal under the food bars.

After walking back to class, I sat down. I heard people talking, some were talking about me & the rumor, & others were crying. Another day. I found that this isn’t normal in schools, but that’s terrifying to me. Is it worse or better? I NEED AN ANSWER YOU FAGGY FLAGGY WAGGY DOG-

I threw the lighter at Sapnap, who glared at me. He grabbed and stuffed it in his pocket and I smiled.

Chapter Text

WILBUR

8:09

2nd period (ACADEMIC)

I’m about to cry (derogatory).

I’m gonna skip this period because I just can’t. I convinced my friend Techno to skip too. He’s part of the council, so he has to walk into the class, walk out to talk to me, walk in, and repeat.

“I hate him with my tw-” I ranted about Jared. I talked about the tutoring, the pictures, practically everything that has been going on. Techno looked at me. “Listen to me, Techno, I need something against him. His social media has nothing but his cat and his arched back.” “And you’re complaining? I’d like cat pictures and a gorgeous man arching his back” Techno said. I rolled my eyes. “Fine, I have some rumors, pictures, and facts.” I smiled. “Really?” “No, I was lying.” He said sarcastically. “Yes, I have them. Pick a card, any card.” I smiled maliciously. “All” I answered. He nodded his head before spilling.“There’s a rumor that he became a father at a young age because multiple freshmen & kids would call him mom, but it turns out they were joking around. 

There is another one where he works at a cat cafe, and I have photos.” He pulled out a polaroid photo of Jared working at a cat cafe. He was wearing tight clothes and a beanie with cat ears on it. I took the picture. Techno continued “Someone said that in middle school he would come every day with more bruises, that one is just sad. There’s another one that says he ran away from his family but he doesn’t have enough money to move out of the state. There is this story about him that sort of started the entire ‘praise mother Jared’ joke going around. 

A teacher was mistreating a girl who got in a car crash & was in a wheelchair, along with a girl who has Tourettes. Jared walked in and the teacher said, and I quote, ‘Jared, sweety, can you get these cripples out of my sight please?’ Jared being the genius he is decided to play a game of Barack Obama and said ‘I have schizophrenia. And no, I won’t. I’m telling the head.’ He then walked off to his next class like he didn’t just tell a teacher that she’s getting fired.” I spoke in response. “I hate his guts but that’s amazing.” Techno continued “People thought he was lying for a bit until someone went through his backpack and found a pill bottle. There are some dumb rumors too. Like one said he doesn’t wear makeup when he has put it on in the locker room. One said that he goes to strip clubs even though he studies all night, there’s one that says he’s cheating on Rosal with a guy. Another says-” “Wait.” I said cutting him off. “That last one is perfect. I’ll take that rumor, I’ll make it a reality then I’ll spread it around ruining his relationship and his reputation.” Techno looked confused. “So you’re going to entice him?” He said, trying not to laugh. I stared at him. “No, I’m going to flirt with him until Rosal thinks something is going on.” I rubbed my head. Techno shrugged in bewilderment and walked into the class. I got up and left. He’ll understand since it’s the end of the period.

Gym. (5th period)

I had to sit out due to the last injury. I should’ve treated myself properly but I also didn’t want to run so…

I thought of what to say on the first encounter. Oh god, what am I going to do? I took out my notebook and started writing. It had to be easy, subtle, and it can’t be too sudden or he’ll easily find out. Maybe I’ll do it during tutoring so he won’t think too much of it. 

6TH PERIOD (ACADEMIC)

Now here’s something I hate. This period is the only one where I can see Rosal, but I can’t with tutoring. Instead, I have to be with her stupid boyfriend. Jared took out everything and set them on the table. “Alright, let’s do the basics.” He said. He taught me something I couldn’t pay attention to. “Wilbur?” I looked up at him. “Do you wanna skip this one?” He scratched his head. “Wow, a council member is asking me to skip? I feel so special & loved!” I said sarcastically. He rolled his eyes and grinned. “If you tell anyone I’ll tell Rosal about your behavior.” “What? Is she a teacher?” I said, acting surprised. “No, but I’ll tell her what you said to me yesterday during tutoring.” He said, leaning back. Okay, that was clever. He knows that I love his girlfriend and the last thing I want is for Rosal to think that I want him, though it defeats the purpose of my plan. But it’ll sound like I’m trying to get with him, what I want is for him to flirt back so many times that he gets too comfortable. Then, I have him do it in front of Rosal so she gets distrustful of Jared. “Fine, I’ll skip with you and you can do whatever,” I said, smiling. He rested his eyes, making an expression for the first time in a million years. “I just wanted a break, I didn’t mean for you to submit.” He said in a low, sensual voice. Well, that was easy. I mean, it was more of a joke than actual flirting, but it was a step. I looked up. “Say the word and these knees will be dropped.” Jared smiled and got up, walking into the hallway. I followed. 

“Your safe word is ‘I love Jared and everything he does’  in other words, you’re stuck that way. All submissive and breedable .” My head is now split. Okay, but why was that H O T? 

I am going animalistic falling for this man. Help. In the name of the father, son, and holy ghost, head, shoulders, knees, and toes. Turn up your nose, strike that pose, AYYYYYY macarena!

I’m dead.

“Good job, Jarry, you killed me,” I said. He giggled and turned around back to the library. I followed & continued. “My heart has been impaled and can only be repaired if you break up with Rosal,” He smiled at me. “Which one do you want? Her or me?” He said. I replied with a soft voice. “Whichever one will fulfill my submissive dream.” “I’m perfect then. I’ll get a collar if you’d like.” Okay. getting him to tease back wasn’t supposed to be this easy. I thought he’d be reluctant but he’s an open door. Now I need him to be a confident yet oblivious door. We walked into the library, grabbed our things, and left.

TIMESKIP - AFTER SCHOOL

Chapter Text

CH.4

JARED 4:03

I jumped on my bed. God if Rosal finds out everything I said to Will I’m dead whether it’s a joke or not. I know that’s toxic and I should probably spend more time with Rosal so she won’t get jealous easily but there’s a problem. I’m not really into her. Let me explain. When she confessed her love, I panicked. I didn’t want to hurt her and I didn’t want to drag her through a fake relationship. I accepted and decided to tell her when she gets bored with me. She never did. Now I have to find out how to formally break up with her or get her to break up with me without making everything go wrong. I care for her but I’m not attracted to her and there’s no way I’d be. To put it simply, I’m gay. I’ve been for years. I never came out because of my family. So yeah, my name’s Jared, I’m gay, and I have a girlfriend. But that’s only part of the equation. The big piece is that I flirted with Wilbur. The guy who despises me while I just like teasing him. Do you know what would be funny? If I bought a collar and gave it to Wil. Or I put in on him while he’s distracted and make it one of those that aren’t easy to take off. The sounds evil & illegal. I love it. I got off of my bed and grabbed my cat Tampon (Her name is tammy but I thought it was funny. Rosal liked it.) I put her collar on and walked out. I drove to the pet store. I brought her out of the carrier and into the store. I put Tammy on the floor. She’s different from other cats instead of sitting around and refusing to move, she’s active so I have to keep her on a leash. I got some food and a sparkly collar for Tammy. I raised her to the bigger collars. “If you were a sad British guy that wants to be put on a leash, what collar would suit you best?” I whispered to her. As always, she sniffed the best one. It had spikes and was a warm pink with “It bites!” and “Beware of Cat” placed on it though it was a dog collar. I grabbed it and got two tags to go with it. One saying “IF LOST RETURN TO JARED” and “WILBUR SOOT” The first one is to ruffle his feathers or fur. I attached them to the collar and drove back home with Tammy. I put the new collar on Tammy and put Wil’s in my bag. Why not end the week with some humiliation?

WILBUR

8:03

1ST PERIOD (ACADEMIC)

I sat at my desk. Jared looked odd. He was looking in his backpack, then at me, and making this face that I couldn’t process. He looked like he was going to laugh. I put my head down and fell asleep. I couldn’t make it through this godforsaken day. Click! I felt something on my neck. I got up and saw Jared walking away. People were snickering while looking at me. I touched my neck and felt something leathery, a few spikes, and cold metal with dents in it. Did he put on a choker or something? Then it hit me. I’m wearing a collar. Yesterday, he said ‘I’ll get a collar if you’d like.’ and I thought he was joking. Now my plan is working better than I thought. But I can’t get too excited as it may go downhill. But the only thing that’s going bad in my life is the fact that I’m getting humiliated. I felt for the clip but when I found it, I found that it’s one of those collars that needs a key to take it off. I groaned and pulled up my uniform collar to cover the other one.

2ND PERIOD (FREE)

I walked to the greenhouse. It was the most calming place with people playing the kalimba in the corners while moths and butterflies fluttered around. I sat down on a vintage bench and curled up, looking at the flowers and the vines. I heard footsteps coming my way. I noticed Rosal in the corner of my eye. I ignored her, though it was hard to. She leaned forward and spoke. “What’s that on your neck?” I looked at her and answered “My skin?” “No, I mean the collar.” I blinked aggressively. “Jared put it on me without me knowing,” I said bluntly. She squinted slightly, “Yeah, sure I’ll believe it when I see proof,” “I don’t know what it says, but maybe that’ll prove it.” I replied. I looked up so she could get to the tags better. “Tell me what they say,” I added. She leaned down and read them. She read them loud and clear “One says ‘Wilbur soot’ and the other says-” Suddenly she stopped. She looked angry. She mumbled something before finally telling me. “The other says ‘if lost, return to Jared’” My eyes widened and I backed up. “What?” I said in shock. Rosal stared at me in disbelief. I stood up. “I need to go.” I walked past her and to the place where Jared always is. I walked through the moon gates that lead to a botanical garden. Jared was leaning on a tree reading a book peacefully. “Hey,” I said, tugging at the collar. He looked up “Can I help you?” He said, closing his book. “Can you please take this off?” I said, getting on my knees and pulling the collar so it dangles in his face. “Sure. Lay on my thighs and I’ll unlock it.” He ordered. I obeyed and let him run his boney fingers all over the back of my neck. Click! I tugged on the collar to find that it was still on me. I hear Jared snicker. I turned and saw him holding a leash. I connected the dots and felt my face heat up in embarrassment. “What the fuck? Let me go!” I said, saying the last part quietly through gritted teeth. He smiled and pulled me down. I lay on his lap and sighed in defeat. This is going too far in contrast to simple flirting.

Chapter Text

JARED

2:34 pm

Wilbur looked at me. “It’s the end of the day. Can you take it off now? Please?” He begged, pointing at his collar. I waited a minute and took off the leash. It looked like he went to the chiropractor. I smiled and left. Then I remembered. Today we had to go home so our dorms could be cleaned. I sighed and went to my dorm. I changed, grabbed my prepacked bag, and put Tammy in her carrier, taking that too. 

I sat in my car for a while. I saw everyone else start to leave. I started my car and drove off. Tammy had a panic attack, so I had to keep her in my lap.

Turn on Unsafe St.

Arrived…

Here we are. I could sneak in through the window of my room, I could stay at a hotel, I could get an apartment, but they would find me anyway. I put Tammy in her carrier, covering it with a loose blanket. I unlocked the door to the house that contained so many murders without death. 

 Everything 

Is

Falling

“Ah, you’re finally back, maybe you’ll stay now.”

Stop

It hurts.

“I won’t. I’m just taking what I need.”

Owch.

“What’s that?”

Uh oh!

“Nothing of your concern.”

Glitter lipstick.

“Jared, I’m your father, you must tell me or I’ll find out myself.”

Ha Ha!

“You aren’t my father. I’m your sperm. You can find out in Hell.”

Gone, twist, snap, POP!

Hiss

Tammy.

Stop.

Hush.

“So you have a cat?”

Bite.

Tongue.

OW!

Cherry Tart.

Concentrate.

“Depends. If you’ll hurt her, then no, if you won’t, still no.”

“If you wanted a child, you could’ve gotten with a girl and had a child, but no…”

Ah! Ow!

“You decided to live the fag life.”

Uncontrolled.

OW! AH! STOP!

“If I could decide, then I’d be more faggot-y”

I DON’T LIKE IT!

“Di-

You’re boring.

“‘Disgraceful’ Yeah, yeah, I know.”

Run.

Stairs.

..

…

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…

..

I took out Tammy and fed her. I don’t need to eat tonight. I’ll manage anyway. 

I walked out to go to the bathroom connected to my room.

MREEOOOOOW!!!!

I froze. Adrenaline poured through my veins, and I dashed out. I saw my Male Birth giver practically choking my cat. I ran and grabbed Tammy. I immediately held her to my chest, knowing that I was too rough with her. “What the hell? Why are you trying to kill my cat?” I yelled. He rolled his eyes. “I barely touched it. Bethany wants it, too.” He said. “Wouldn’t you want your sister to be happy?” another manipulation tactic. I cared for my sister. I tried to save her from our birth givers. But I don’t care anymore. “I don’t give anything about my sister,” I said, calming the kitten in my arms. “Just get a child!” He said. “I’m sixteen,” I replied, dumbfounded at his stupidity. “Just get one! It doesn’t matter.” He yelled through his Man-Meets-Podcast voice. “Just get out!” I yelled, roughly shoving him out the door and slamming it. I heard a few bangs and my mother saying “We love you, darling, please come out!” in a sweet voice. I have to deal with this for a week. Welp, guess I’ll just jump out the window.

|-|_|-|

TIME SKIP

I fed Tammy once more as she fell asleep. While asleep, I gently ran my fingers through her fur to check for any wounds. Surprisingly, she was okay. I sighed in relief and lay on my bed. I fell asleep quickly.

I woke up to banging. It was 7:00 am. Though it was Saturday, I still had to go to school for an AC meeting. I put a bowl full of cat food down and climbed out the window. I jumped in my car and drove off. I got a coffee before heading to my school and was greeted by my first teacher, Mrs. Geuse. (Goo-Shey for those who are confused)

I met up with my side of the AC. We already talked about most of our plans at the cat cafe I work at last week, so most of it was us talking, proofreading, checking, & messing around. We eventually got everything down on paper. We color-coded and labeled them. After that, we still had time to be foolish, so we gave the papers to the teachers. They decided to take my car. (I live the farthest away from our high school, so I had to drive and everyone else walked or took the bus.) We drove to get us boba, then we went to the park. We took up the entire bench, talking about our classmates. “Then Daniel, cause of course, that’s his name, stapled Conner’s head because he thought it wouldn’t tear through his skin!” Reece said. “Jesus Christ that man needs Jesus Christ! What happened?” Herla exclaimed. “We had to call his parents and tell him that he stapled his classmate’s head,” Reece replied. “How did that conversation go?” I asked. “What do you think” “Hey, hello, is this Daniel’s mother? Okay, so your son just stapled a student’s forehead- Yes, I said he stapled a student’s forehead, free plastic surgery. Humbled him right up. Yeah, okay, just so you know, your son may be arrested. Uh-huh. We don’t know babe. If it makes you feel better, he may go to a mental hospital instead and you may be sued or be checked by CPS. Sorry if I gave you a miscarriage. Anyway, you wanna move out or throw him in the slammer? Okay? Okay. Aight. Bye-bye~” I said in a mocking tone with my phone mounted between my shoulder and my head. “Uh-uh? Yeah. Okay. Ahaha~” I continued while the group snickered. Reece joined in “That was accurate, but it was more like this.” She positioned herself, making a fake phone with her hand and standing straight with her other hand wrapped around her waist. “Hello, Mrs. Shellington or whatever. Your stupid son thought staples wouldn’t tear through the skin of a person, so he stapled a student’s hairline back in place. Yes, I’m a student. I’m allowed to call you as I am a part of the council. Listen, you’re overpowered when in the council. It’s different in this school, but that’s beside the point, your son performed plastic surgery on this kid. I said he performed plastic surgery but in a way that he should never be allowed in the office, Grey. Any questions? Bye.” I giggled. “So I got most of it correct?” I asked, sipping on the large straw. “Yes, if it makes you feel better,” Reece said, giggling.

We eventually had to split up. I came home.

I walked through the door, seeing my birth giver & my sibling on the sofa. I ignored them and walked upstairs. 

I stood in front of my room. The door had been destroyed and my male birth giver was standing there with small holes on his arm. “Your creature is feral,” He said. I rolled my eyes and paid more attention to my trashed room. At least my vent sketchbook was still in my dorm- “So I tried to put it down.”

Adrenaline entered my body. I rushed to my dresser and pushed it to my door. I looked around the room for Tammy. I walked past my bed and heard a hiss. I looked down to see her under the bed. I slowly reached out to her. She hissed and scratched me. I sighed and grabbed a bag of treats. I put all of Tammy’s things in a locked box. I took it out and crinkled the bag. She peered slightly. I took a few out and put gave them to her, letting her eat them and occasionally bite or scratch me. She warmed up to me after a while and lay next to me. The world distorted and I fell asleep.

Chapter Text

WILBUR

SUNDAY
11:09 AM

Yesterday was great. I met up with my family. Unfortunately, my room is still next to my sister’s and these walls are made from paper, so last night I heard her calling her girlfriend. It was scary, to say the least. But how about today?

I woke up and made breakfast. I ran out the door and jumped in my car, driving to the nearest TenByTen. I walked in and looked at the notebooks. I grabbed one and moved on to the pens, reading the boxes.

Bump!

“Ah, sorry.” The person I bumped into whispered. “Sorry-it’s fine,” I whispered back. “Wil?” I looked up to see Jared. But he looked slightly different. He was wearing high-waisted black jeans and a dress shirt. He had belt & glasses chains. But they were pride colours. Maybe he hasn’t come out to me yet? Oh well, that’s not my business. He was looking messier than usual, he wasn’t wearing any concealer, so his dark circles were visible. The only thing he put on is lip tint. “You look like hell,” I said, leaning in to see through his foggy glasses. “Yeah. I just got back.” He said, grabbing a Hello Kitty & a Kuromi plush. “Do you ever sleep or are stressed enough to get those coal sacks?” I said, genuinely concerned. He smiled and laughed. “I’ve never heard the term ‘coal sacks’ before,” He replied. “Well I’m just exotic,” I said, looking at the mass amount of plushies he was holding. He smiled and walked to the register. Surprisingly, he had enough money to pay for everything. I guess cat cafes pay well. 

I paid for my things and followed him outside. Jared turned around and smiled. But it felt different. He looks more tired, as he is, making him appear sad. But something was calling for help. Something so familiar. It looked like he’d been crying all night. I realized a huge bruise on his chest. “Are you-” He shoved a Kuromi plush in my face before I could answer. I looked up. “Ow.” I motion the plush back and he pushes it. “You can keep it,” He said shakily. “Wha- But your chest-” I started talking quickly so he heard me. “Would you like a different plush? I have plenty-” “Stop trying to change the subject, Jared. Why is there a bruise on your chest?” I said, irritated. He stood for a second. “Get in the car. I’ll explain there.” He said. “Okay, but only if it’s my car. I don’t want you to kidnap me.” I said. He nodded. “Lead the way.”

He put his things in his car and we sat in the back of mine. “Alright, give yourself a c-section and cut to the chase,” I said. He sighed. “Try changing your words first” he mumbled. I ignored what he said. “Alright, tell me why and how you have a bruise on your chest,” I conveyed. He sighed once more before explaining. “I got in a fight with Rosal, so she punched me which made that spot tender. Then, my father threw a book at me so it got bruised.” He said, crossing his arms around his chest. “And why did your father throw a book at you?” I said, copying him. “I dis- it was an accident.” He stuttered. “Why was your father throwing books?” I said.

Silence.

He stared at the ground. Had I gone too far? Well, I can’t forget that he’s dating my ex, so…

He sniffled. I realized what had happened. He’s crying. I’ve never seen him cry. I don’t know what to do.

“Ah, shit”

I’ve never heard him swear either. What happened to him? 

He wiped his tears and put his glasses on. “I have to go,” He said, getting out of the car. “Wait,” I said. He glared tearfully at me and got back in. “What.”

“How big is your bruise?”

“Why does it matter?”

“Because you’re hurt.”

“Isn’t that what you want?”

“I just want to help-”

“I can’t-”

I locked the doors from the front. He looked at me angrily. I grabbed his glasses to reveal his bloodshot eyes. I realised how soft his face seemed. Suddenly, he became more submissive. He stopped intervening. I looked at the buttons on his shirt that were grasping onto his tender tear-stained skin. “Can I…?” I asked, gesturing at his buttons. “It’s fine. I don’t care.” He replied, uncurling and leaving his shirt free. “Just so you know, I’m not doing anything weird, I just…” I trailed off. He hummed in response and I didn’t wait any longer. I unbuttoned his shirt to reveal more bruises. “How did this happen?” I asked, concerned. 

“Rosal and I got into an argument-” 

“About what?”

“About the fact that I give my cat more attention than her.”

“WHAT? I thought it’d be for a worse reason, not caring for your pet. Does she want you to neglect her or something?” I yelled, confused. “That’s what I said, and now we’re here,” he said, leaning into me. I impulsively grabbed his face, squishing it in my hands. He looked up at me, his eyes glistening in his tears. I hugged him. I felt my face fall tender. Now I’m crying. 

Seeing someone so strong break so easily…

Hiding so much.

I fucking hate you.

I hate you so fucking much.

You arsehole.

But why do you like me?

“Wake up. We have school tomorrow.” I said. It’d been two hours & he’s fallen asleep in my arms. I gently shook him till he woke up. He groaned and I chuckled. I took out my phone and took a photo of him.

I smiled and posted it on my private Instagram account. There were already comments.

Techy_Wechy: Did yall… y’know…

    Wilby: why are you like this

ChuChu: awwww

RanAway: I feel single. Y'all ain’t even dating… unless…

Tom_.Train: It’s giving enemies to lovers

    Techy_Wechy: I think you mean Rivals to Lovers 

BaddyDaddy: This is the sweetest thing I’ve seen.

    Skipper: Sweeter than us?

    BaddyDaddy: Yes.

    Tom_.Train: Man didn’t even hesitate

Thweam: That’s your ex’s boyfriend. Holy mother of Elon Musk this is more controversial than me.

Panda: Hotttt

Karline: Will you guys stop fighting now?

Threece: SO THAT’S WHY HIS GLASSES CHAINS ARE FRUITY

(A/N this is Reece btw)

Daniela: I hacked in your priv to see spoicy photos, not dramaaaa

(And this is Daniel from earlier.)

QuackDaddy: man is getting more game with the man he hates than me with the girl I’ve for years :’(

Wilby: Suck it up.

BaddyDaddy: I think you forgot a word, “QuackDaddy”

I smiled and put my phone away. Jared got up, his hair messy, and shifted. He rubbed his head. “I’m gonna leave. My father won’t be too happy with me.” He said, buttoning his shirt back up and leaving. “Thanks,” He said, his face red. I grinned once more. “You can keep the plush. I have like, billions anyway,” He said before walking to his car. I watched him walk away. I crawled to the front and hugged the huge plush.

[]-[]-[]-TIMESKIP-[]-[]-[]

I lay on my bed and grabbed my phone. I went to text my online friend, whom I’ve known for many years.

JarryBarry: YOU BETTER ANSWER YOUR PHONE-

Goldy: I’m gonna ignore that.

Goldy: How did come up with your name?

JarryBarry: I like a berry.

Goldy: oh.

JarryBarry: & “JerryBerry” was taken.

Goldy: Ohhhhhhhhhhhh.

JarryBarry: So how’s your love life?

Goldy: I’m still in the process of resurrecting it.

JarryBarry: I have a girlfriend

Goldy: You like girls?

JarryBarry: No, I’m in a state of denial.

Goldy: I’ll take her

JarryBarry: Nah she’s abusive. You don’t deserve that.

Goldy: aw

JarryBarry: <3

JarryBarry: I would say I love you platonically, but my girlfriend doesn’t understand true 

friendship

Goldy: According to that, she doesn’t understand privacy either.

JarryBarry: Aha

Goldy: Also, why don’t you break up with her?

JarryBarry: I have something better planned.

Goldy: I’m scared

JarryBarry: All I have to say is I love you <3

Goldy: Wait-

JarryBarry: <3

Goldy: but-

Goldy: but you said-

Goldy: well that’s ominous.

I giggled at my phone. He’s always like this. I just hope he’s doing better. Last time, he vented about his family and I vented about my love life. He always made sure I vented too; so I would be mentally swell. We’ve had our moments, he had a nice body, and he showed his tattoos.

He’s accepting of my body; which changed often. Usually, my bones were visible. If not, I’d have a slight chub; which he loved either way. He liked how I wasn’t immediately submissive, because most of the other people he met on this app are horndogs.

But we never got sexual, just workout updates or jokes.

Ex:

Goldy: I look like a skeleton

JarryBarry: I just bench-pressed my cat

Goldy: I’m 7 weeks pregnant!

JarryBarry: Giga chad looks like he sharted. Idk why straight men love him so much.

Goldy: The only thing that isn’t skinty is my booty.

JarryBarry: Suddenly I’m a pirate and I want that booty

Goldy: ARRRR

JarryBarry: YMCA in my dorm UWU

JarryBarry: someone called my pecs breast & IDK how to feel about that.

Goldy: I’m someone 😳

JarryBarry: In that case, I love the nickname.

Goldy: You better

And so on. We’re friends that have never seen each other in person, nor have seen each other’s faces, but it feels rather close. I wish we could meet. I hope he isn’t a creep. Oh hey, that rhymed, Dr Suess. 

We’ve called each other before, but our voices sound different over the phone.

But I’ll never forget the day when I found out we go to the same school.

I hope that means he’s a student and not a teacher…

But he doesn’t show any red flags, and his voice is rather handsome.

He’s perfect for now. 

Chapter Text

JARED

7:23

MONDAY

I drove to school. I came earlier than usual so I could fix myself up in my car.

Once I arrived, I took out my bag. First, I cover my dark circles & redraw my freckle in that spot. Then, I put foundation on my lips & covered a majority of it with lip tint. I then put a finish on top and got out.

I walked to my first class & looked at the time. I realised how early I was. Oh well, at least I can mess around for a bit. I took out my phone and scrolled through the group chat for the west AC.

Tom&Jared: I brought Monster energy to school

ReesesPuffs: Why are you awake & why are you at school

Techno-Babe: I second that

Tom&Jared: I dunno

BaddyDaddy: please Jared, go to sleep.

Tom&Jared: I’m at school though

BaddyDaddy: Take a nap on your boyfriend’s desk or something

Techno-Babe: Not everyone’s gay, Darryl.

BaddyDaddy: sorry, my brain has been infected by the agenda

Tom&Jared: the MLM flag is cute

BaddyDaddy: We’re getting off-topic. Take a nap on the stool & lean on the wall, Jared.

Tom&Jared: I’m too tall I’ll fall & get concussed

BaddyDaddy: I’m taller than you.

Hurla: Why are you guys spamming? I’m trying to sort papers.

ReesesPuffs: Do Not Disturb exist, Herla.

BaddyDaddy: I just arrived

Tom&Jared: didn’t need to know that

Techno-Babe: I second that. Again.

ReesesPuffs: TMI, my guy.

BaddyDaddy: I-

Steppy: *Blushes*

ReesesPuffs: SKEPPY?

Techno-Babe: SKEPPY?

Tom&Jared: SKEPPY?

BaddyDaddy: SKEPPY?

Hurla: SKEPPY?

BaddyDaddy: GET OUT

BaddyDaddy: YOU AREN’T AC

Steppy: NO

BaddyDaddy removed Steppy

BaddyDaddy: well he’s never letting that go

I smiled at my phone, not realising the British twink. “Are you watching cat videos?” Wilbur asked. “Nope. I’m in the council’s group chat,” I replied. “Oh. what’s happening?” he asked. I gave him my phone. He read it before giggling. “Is there something you wanna tell me?” he asked, showing my phone where there were more text messages. I yanked my phone out of his hand and he burst into laughter.

ReesesPuffs: MOTHER JARED

ReesesPuffs: I’M HUNGRYYYY

BaddyDaddy: Everyone’s a little fruity

Steppy: Just a little bit!

BaddyDaddy: WHAT THE-

Steppy: teeheeheeheeheeheeheehee

ReesesPuffs: JAREDDDDDDDDDDDDDD

ReesesPuffs: ME WANT MILKYYYYYY

Techno-Babe: so are we going to ignore that

Hurla: Yes.

BaddyDaddy: yes.

Steppy: Yes.

BaddyDaddy: no.

Steppy: no.

BaddyDaddy: Yes.

Steppy: Yes.

BaddyDaddy: no.

Steppy: no.

BaddyDaddy: Yes.

Steppy: Yes.

BaddyDaddy: no.

Steppy: no.

BaddyDaddy: Yes.

Techno-Babe: *sigh*

Techno-Babe removed Steppy

ReesesPuffs: MOMMY

ReesesPuffs: MILKYYYYYYY

ReesesPuffs: I HUNGYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY

Hurla: LORD HEAVENLY FATHER FORGIVE FOR MY SINS THAT LEAD THIS AWFUL FATE

And then the ones that are the most embarrassing

ReesesPuffs: YOU’VE EVER HEARD OF BRE@STFEEDING?

Hurla: why did you censor that it isn’t even a bad word

ReesesPuffs: I’m HANGRY NOW

ReesesPuffs: GRRRRRR MOMMY GRRRRRRRR

Sigh.

I blushed and put my phone away. I didn’t even notice the aggressor walking in.

“What happened here?” Rosal said, sitting down. I painted myself confused. “Why are you here?” I asked, slightly worried about what she’d do when she saw me hanging out with her ex.

“My schedule changed, what were you guys talking about?” She replied, giving us a side-eye.

Wilbur gave her a dirty one in return. I flicked his ear. She’s already pissed. “Just the AC group chat,” I replied, straddling Wilbur so he doesn’t do whatever is on his mind. “Wilbur is part of the AC? Since when?” Rosal said maliciously. “He isn’t. I was showing him from my phone,” I said. “Show me, then. If someone I hate gets to see my boyfriend’s text messages, I do too,” She declared. I shivered a bit. I knew she wouldn’t take it so well, but I had to show her. I handed it over and she snatched it. 

She read slowly. I saw the anger grow on her face. “We’ll talk about this after school.” She said through gritted teeth before throwing my phone back. I caught it, more students walking in. Wilbur sat at his desk and the teacher started.

9:45

PASSING PERIOD

I know that I need perfect attendance, especially as a council member, but-

“Hey, Jared!”

Shit.

I was going to skip to smoke outside, but the fucking teacher caught me before I could.

I stepped in and sat on the stool for council members. He started teaching, and I started sleeping. I counted the seconds until I got my ass beaten by Rosal.

6TH PERIOD

“What is the MEDICAL term for pink eye?” 

“I DON’T KNOW”

“IT’S CONJUNCTIVITIS”

“OH.”

I rubbed my head. Everyone in the library was looking at us. “Psst. hey.” I turned to see Reece handing me a note. I looked at it.

“Yall are a loud couple but you do you boo.”

I looked at her in a confused manner. I understood what it meant, she just wrote it oddly.

“Alright. What is the medical term for a douche?”

“Jared?”

I rolled my eyes. “Very funny, Wil, what is the OTHER term.”

“En- Ene-ema?”

“Pronounce it correctly…”

“En-Aem-Ah?”

“You’ve just furthered.”

“Enema?”

“Correct!”

I ruffled my hair and looked at the next word.

“Alright, here’s a simple one.” I started. “What does STD stand for?”

“Sexually transmitted disease?”

“Yes!”

We went out into the hall. Wilbur had been staring at me. “I like your choker. It looks like a collar; but in a good way,” He said. “It is a collar. I bought it from an old friend of mine for Rosal, but she didn’t like it, and well, you can imagine the rest,” I said, adjusting my collar. “You can put me on a leash someday to weigh it out,” He giggled and looked away.

[A/N I don’t know what to do for the rest of the school day, so here is Jared working at the cat cafe.]

I set the cup on the desk. “Rebel tea for Darrien!” I yelled. Said Darrien (who is Reese in a blue wig) walking up and grabbing the cup. I giggled and wrapped the next order. Instead of saying these two, I walked to the people. First, Rosal because she’s quite fussy when my attention isn’t on her. I kissed her on the cheek which she fake smiled at. I gave the other to Wil, who was petting a cat softly. I gave him his drink. He smiled and got back to work. Once my breaktime started, I could go back to help him. Oh, well. “Frog Cupcake for Techno-Babe,” I yelled vaguely sensually. Everyone in the cafe started looking at me. The man whose name was called walked up and took his cupcake. He threw a piece of paper on the desk; to which I read.

It was a drawing of male genitalia. I snorted and stuffed it in my pocket. I don’t know why I put it there. It just felt right. And I’m stupid.

I finished one more drink before the familiar coworker tapped my shoulder and took my spot. I allowed Wilbur in the breakroom and we “Studied.”

We laughed & sent each other stupid photos. He’s like a real-life Goldy, except he dislikes me.

I’d like to think Goldy loves me. I love him too. I sent him a photo of my cat mid-air and he burst out laughing. I hope he forgot the events yesterday. I don’t want to lose Rosal.

Rosal.

Shit.

She’s going to kill me if I don’t get out now. I excused myself and walked out. I gave Rosal some candy and told her that I loved her.

I fucking hate her.

Chapter Text

WILBUR
8:24 PM
TUESDAY
FIRST PERIOD (ACADEMIC)
I scrolled on my phone. The teacher was late, and Jared looked uneasy. Rosal walked in. I know it’s none of my business, but ever since that interaction, the tension in the room seemed way more noticeable. Rosal stared at Jared. She then glanced at me and smiled slightly. I looked away quickly and pretended not to notice. 
Jared caught my eye. We had a silent staring contest. One of those where you gaze at each other and it clicks in your head that it’s a staring contest.
 I won.
He did that expression that someone does when they lost but they had fun, or something.

2ND PERIOD
[ACADEMIC]
I’m skipping this period. The hall duty is shit at catching students anyway. Most of them don’t care.
“Hey Wil,” I turned at the voice. It was Phil, a senior council member. “How’s your plan? You and Jared seem close.”
“Oh, s- I forgot-” I said.
(A/N) It was me. I forgot.)
He chuckled. “How much progress did you do naturally?” he asked. “Well…” I pulled out my phone and showed him a photo of Jared sleeping on me. “I posted it on my private account,” he leaned in and rubbed his neck. “Wow. Doesn’t he have a girlfriend? I constantly see gross photos of him and this girl,” That made me cringe internally. I see Rosal post photos of her and Jared. I always noticed how in the clothing swap ones, he seemed so confident. I didn’t realize this before, but he seemed way more comfortable on the effeminate side. I overheard him say that he liked feminine clothing more than masculine. I think it suits him well.
I also notice that his voice gets slightly strained around her.
“Yeah, uh, I guess it was just us being vulnerable. It’s…private.” I said. I didn’t want to spread his problems around. I believe that if he’d trust me enough to vent, I shouldn’t throw away that trust. 
I felt a flash of guilt. I don’t know why. I still want the venting to be just between Jarry & me. He’s very special, and Jared is just someone I became friends with because of my malicious intent, but now he trusts me. I remember our stupid arguments from middle school.
“You can’t eat those together! You’ll get sick!”
“I know!”
“I’m the only suicidal person here!”
“Don’t act like you’re stronger when you can’t eat a simple food combination!”
“That’s TOMATO SAUCE and SOY SAUCE.”
“Stop talking down at me! Know your place, JARED.”
“I KNOW MY PLACE, AND THAT’S ABOVE YOU.”
Our lives were so silly. Now he’s in an abusive relationship, I’m in love with someone on an app, and that guy could be anyone. He could be an 80-year-old man, maybe it’s some girl with a gay fetish, maybe it’s Rosal & a friend of hers catfishing me.
“Wilbur? Are you alive?” Phil said. “Uh- yeah, I was just thinking. So, about your question, we’ve flirted and cuddled once. We’ve-“ I got a text message. “Hold on,” I said before pulling out my phone.

Tom&Jared
_________________________
You better get your goofy|
    ass in the classroom-  |
/
_____
Wait-|
/
________________
Are you in class?|
/

_________________________
|How do you not know???
\

_________________
I skipped class lol
/

________
HOW???
\
___________________________________
|YOU HAVE TO STAY YOU’RE AC???|
\

___________________________
I said I had to call someone|
/
__________________________
Now I’m smoking outside|
/

______________________________
|What are you doing outside???
\

________________
Spinning plates.|
/

_
|…
\

_____________________
I’m smoking, dummy|
/

__
|🥲
\

I have to meet up with him. “I have to go,” I said to Phil. He hummed in response and left.

_______________
| I’m coming out
\

______________
Good for you |
/

____________________________________________
| I was gonna deny it but you seem jealous 🤨
\
______________________________
| you got something to tell me?
\

________________________
You ain’t my parent I got |
nothing to tell you.          |
/

____________________________________
| I would throw a book at you though 
\

___________________
That’s homophobic |
/

___________________
| But you’re straight-
\

________________________________________________________________
No, I’m TonyTheTalkingClocksexual & MonsterEnergysexual 💅✨ |
/

________
| BABE-
\

___________
Yes, Zaddy?|
/

____________
| JAIL. JAIL.
\

________________
But- but baby 🥺|
/

_________________________
| Look behind you dummy
\

Jared whipped his head around. He took out his cigarette and exhaled. I waved it out of my face, fighting the urge to slap him. He looked at me for a second before talking. “Hey, hey, idiot.” He leaned in, giving me the chance to take in all his features. I take that chance. He’s wearing dramatic eyeliner, I can see his dark brown eyes through his glasses. I think I can see some clear holographic glitter on his eyelids. I’d hate to admit it, but he’s attractive. He blows smoke, I inhale it. I’m immediately sent into a coughing fit. He pats my back until I stopped. We held eye contact until it got too awkward. “Hold on. I need to hide this,” he said as he put his cigarette somewhere I couldn’t see. I inhaled. “What a looker,” I mumbled impulsively. He didn’t hear, or he ignored me (the feeling is mutual). We spoke in a broken language that caused inside jokes. I could slap and kiss him at the same time.
.
.
.
6TH PERIOD
TUTOR SESSION
“Hey, Jared?” I said in a sweet voice. “So…we have to write a poem, and I was wondering if-“ “if you want me to write it for you, the answer is no.” He said, interrupting me. I frowned. “I wanted you to be my beta reader,” I said. He raised his eyebrows slightly. “Okay. Where’s the poem?” He asked tiredly. I gave him a folded piece of paper. 

Geodes and fungi grow
Nothing will melt the snow
Frozen in the lake, he’s the victim.
But I still skate
On the lake
Maybe then, I’ll find a mate
He stares at me in anger

I’m in love with poison 
Disappointed in his boy’s son
Two steps forward 
Start to realize how sad the boy is.

“Will, you’re going to lose points from how short it is,” he said. I frowned so hard it hurt. “You fix it, then,” I said. He rolled his eyes and pulled out his pen.

I scrolled on my phone.
Jared’s Twitter page.

High Waisted Milf (@Tom&Jared)
Poetry is fun when no one tells you to do it.

High Waisted Milf (@Tom&Jared)
Happy 1,000,000 birthday to the hag called my mother

High Waisted Milf (@Tom&Jared)
Cross-dressing on my father’s birthday out of pure spite 🤪

High Waisted Milf (@Tom&Jared)
Guys, I got grounded for wearing a loose-knit top. Anyway feeling cute. (Yes, these are the OTHER ones that the hag threatened me for <333333)

High Waisted Milf (@Tom&Jared)
This is the clothing I was wearing that got my mother to threaten sewer slide because it was too feminine 

The comments.

The Daddiest Baddie (@BaddieB)
I DEMAND you tell me where you got that toppppp

RosiePosie (@RosieRose)
I kinda prefer you to be more masculine but okay.
    >Geppi (@geckoBoy) you can SENSE the bitch energy

She’s a 🚩(@Michu)
@RosieRose Look in the mirror and say “I dislike my boyfriend but I stay with him to degrade and take advantage of his sexual prowess.” Then start crying.
    >She’s a 🚩(@Michu) I changed my name’s pronouns just to spite you.

Eat ‘em up (@ReesesPuffs)
I’m sorry, your mother did WHAT?

Run baby, RUN 🚩🚩🚩 (@Rainbow)

(A/N the photos won't insert so imagine a Homosapien with one enlarged eye with the caption "WHAT DO YOU MEAN "NO HOMO")

Danny Gorbgilly (@CrotchGroblinOG)
@RosieRose do everyone a favour and shut up :D

Hurla (@OysterBabe)
Your mother is jealous of your hips. I get gender envy from those hips.

Mackaelah (@Macky)
Guys, Rosal probably didn’t mean it like that. I’ve known her for a while and I know she wouldn’t say that. It’s her opinion.
    >Danny Gorbgilly (@CrotchGoblinOG) I know the girl whose name is spelt like someone trying to be unique but ends up on those Shein slander accounts ain’t talking.

“Hey, Will? I’m done.”

I turned my head to his paper. My poem was way longer than before. I read it.

Geodes and fungi accumulate 
Ending at his love life’s fate
So he walks along the frozen lake
Ignoring the angered one, he continues to skate
“I’m lovesick”
Those murmurs will taunt the boy, he hopes.
But instead, he continues to skate
On the beloved’s frozen lake.

I’m in love with cyanide
Tasteless, and clear
After, I’ll water my plants
With the frozen boy’s tears.
I block out my ears.

Will I open my eyes?
Will I finally realize?
The murmurs he’s conveyed in his indecent tone.
They say

He sins of

Sins of what? I wonder.

But if I’d save him from the lake I’d know that's he's saying

“I’m in love”
“I’m in love”
“I’m not taunting you anymore,”
“Cupid can’t reach me under here, can finish my war?”

 I'm in love with cyanide
Tasteless, and clear.
“Your plants are dead anyway,
Could you stop taking my tears?”
He’s probably lying,
Talk to me, Deneuve,
What do you have to murmur once more?
“I’m in love,”
“I’m in love,”
“I’m in love,”
“Sincerely, Deneuve.”

There was my name written in calligraphy in the corner. I looked up at Jared. “This is great-Wow- I don’t know what to say,” I grinned at the small “Jared is the Cowriter!” written in the corner. 

“What’s your poem?”

Chapter Text

WILBUR

TUTOR SESSION 

“It’s called “Heart Candies” and it’s an emotional wreck,” He said, laughing tiredly. I looked at the paper that was once grazed by a fountain pen.

Will he save me?

Am I asking for too much?

Inhale arsenic, my love

It’s very healthy.

She places a plate of glass in front of me.

For her love

For her love

I’m starving, the glowing bits make me jump in glee.

For her love.

For her love.

Hold me in your arms.

Your torso is gone.

Our embers rekindle, but they don’t mix

The fact that you valued me makes me feel so sick.

He tried his best.

Cupid shoots a bow.

But instead, it pushes me farther down in the black hole 

Where I indulge in self-hatred

She talks to me with malicious intent.

And it reminds me of it all.

I came here to escape

But now there’s another gate

So many miles away from you.

We interlock our souls 

They want to repel but they attract.

One hates the other and the other is me

For her love.

He’s been helping everyone else.

But cupid can’t find someone for himself.

So he takes his bow and points it at his head.

It’s time to find love of my own.

When the black hole engulfs you too

Do me a favour, and tell him how much he means to you

Ignore me in the corner

Doing nothing can’t harm.

My parents told me that

Cupid needs love too

Platonic, romantic, whatever that word means to you.

Hold him in your arms, 

And I watch you from below.

He throws my letters away once again

Maybe we’d be better just as friends.

Dear boy who hates me,

I’m in love,

I’m in love,

Sincerely, Deneuve.

TIME SKIP

Goldy: I’m sorry for venting, but I think I have to let this out.

Goldy: I’ve been mistreating my class AC, as you know. I always thought of him as the typical white boy with little to no personality, as he constantly has this nonchalant expression. But I learned that he’s dealing with awful relationship problems. His father isn’t great either, but that hasn’t been confirmed. Y’know, I read some things he wrote, and they give off an unconventional vibe. I think he’s growing on me. He doodled on his paper. I didn’t even know he liked drawing. He’s suddenly this funny, dramatic, attractive himbo. If you can find any humour in this, I’d appreciate that.

JarryBarry: GASP

JarryBarry: HOW DARE YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH SOMEONE WHO HAS SHOWN THEIR FACE???

JarryBarry: I’VE NEVER FELT SO BETRAYED 

JarryBarry: On a serious note, I’m happy for you. It takes a while for some people to open up. If it was to the point where even around the other AC members he didn’t act himself, he must put in a LOT of effort to conceal his emotions. I’m happy that you noticed that, as it’s usually ignored.

JarryBarry: But still, I FEEL SO BETRAYED

Goldy: lol…

JarryBarry: I can’t say much, because I met someone who’s shown their face too.

Goldy: GASP

JarryBarry: Yes…

JarryBarry: He has a very active mind. He just doesn’t know how to express it. I tutor him. Though he’s known to have something against me, I still like him. I’m unsure if it’s romantic or not. I know it’s wrong to think about this when I’m in a committed relationship. My hallucinations continue to remind me of him. You’re kind of like him, but you LOVEEEEEE me. Unless Mr Face has gone in between us…

Goldy: Is it bad that I can’t tell if you’re genuinely jealous? Don’t worry, Mr Face is just a friend. Plus, if I do end up with him, at least you have MR LOVE with you (But seriously, ARE YOU JEALOUS)?

JarryBarry: Don’t worry, love, you’re my top priority (next to my girlfriend, my cat & Mr Love. )

Goldy: You called me “love”, so it can’t be good.

JarryBarry: what if you ARE Mr Love

Goldy: GASP

JarryBarry: WHAT IF I AM MR FACE

Goldy: GASP X2

Goldy: Anyway, you said you wanted to talk during my shift. What do you want to say?

JarryBarry: I want pectorals. Not for me. On someone else.

Goldy: You’re 16.

JarryBarry: I know.

Goldy: You turn 17 in a few days, right?

JarryBarry: You remember my birthday?

Goldy: Yes, love.

JarryBarry: AWWWWW

Goldy: hush. I’m older than you.

JarryBarry: Old man you, old, old, man of gold

Goldy: That’s me <3

I could make out with my phone. This goddamn app gave me a platonic boyfriend. During all of our phone calls where our voices would warp slightly. 

My cat-obsessed, corny, jealous, online boyfriend. Possibly Mr Face. God, I hope not. He is cute. Jared is cute. That’s something I never thought I’d say.

(A/N he’s learning guys)

His name is unfortunate. The name Jared is cute and sends sweetie vibes, but the people who possess it are not the way the name sounds. At least my Jared is sweet. Sometimes. And by “My Jared” I mean the Jared I know.

(A/N nvm)

I lay on my bed and talked to him for the rest of the night.

Goldy: I have to sleep now.

JarryBarry: Alright. 

JarryBarry: Goodnight. Love you <3

Goldy: Love you too <3

I smiled and closed my phone.

TIME-SKIP

JARED

WEDNESDAY

5:23 AM

I feel like a monster for waking up this early. Well, at least half of my friends in the AC also have this problem.

Tom&Jared: When I wake up without my cat I hate myself a little more

ReesesPuff: I hate myself when You text so early in the morning

Hurla: I hate myself when I go to school and forget to do my makeup

Charla: I hate myself when I fall for another red flag

BaddyDaddy: I hate myself when

PhillyCheeseCake: Bad nO

ReesesPuff: Oh god

Tom&Jared: Emo Timothée Chalamet who?

Hurla: What?

Tom&Jared: Huh.

Chapter Text

JARED

WEDNESDAY 

6:54

I finished my makeup and left.

I wish time could go by slower. But every day, time gets faster. So Rosal notices this and eats every single second. I hope it tastes like candy. Candy with tajin on it. Candy that tastes sweet, and salty, then burns the back of your throat like a good poison. It’ll feel like spikes stabbing in every crevice of her throat. 

Then a wave of healing comes over.

It makes her feel heavenly.

Hell, why am I even thinking of such awful things?

Rosal is just experiencing jealousy, and it’s my fault.

But I think such things of her?

“Earth to Jared?”

I look up, and it’s Wil.

I smile.

“Hello, love,” I say and smile at him.

“Love? Seriously?” He said, giggling.

I roll my eyes. “I took improv classes many years ago,”

“I can tell, LOVE,” He mocked.

I relaxed my eyelids slightly and poked his nose.

“Er- Hey,” Rosal said.

We both jumped slightly.

“Hello, dear,” I said.

“Dear? I’m not your daughter,” She said with a giggle.

I quietly laughed, knowing that it was all fake.

She sat down, I could read her jealousy.

Wil sat too, I could read his anger.

The tension was building up, and I was doing nothing about it.

I rest my head in my hand.

God, I’m an awful person.

The rest of the class filled up.

God, I want to smoke so bad.

I scratch the skin on my thumb. It’s kind of a habit that I do subconsciously. I notice Michelle staring at my thumb. She’s always been an observatory person. Who am I to stop her? 

“Jared? Can you watch the class for a second? I need to get some papers from the office,” The teacher said, and I nodded.

Michelle almost immediately threw a paper aeroplane at me. Sometimes I wonder if she has these in her hair or something because it’s been 2.453 seconds since the teacher left the room.

I unfold it.

You should stop scratching yourself. You’re bleeding.

P.S. I taped something in the corner

P.P.S. Meet me after school at my grandma’s old greenhouse tomorrow.

P.P.P.S. You need to teach me how you conceal your dark circles

P.P.P.P.S You have cat hair stuck to your earrings

And in the corner, there’s a bandaid.

I look at the bloody mess on my finger.

Now everyone is looking at me.

I wiped it off and put the bandaid on.

I threw away the scraps and kept the paper just in case. I take the cat hair off my earrings and play with it. I miss Tammy. I hope that the automatic feeder is treating her well.

[]<>T<>I<>M<>E<>S<>K<>I<>P<>[]

I wrote on a paper that I didn’t get to finish and turned it in. I scratched the bandaid and shook my leg. God, I can’t wait for the school year to end. Heh.

“I can’t wait for the school year to end!” He says in November.

I looked at the bandaid. It was the average plain beige kind, but it meant a lot to me. She cares. I mean, it’s no surprise. She always has, with Mary Wilson, my mental health, everything. I helped her with things too. 

“Jared? The class ended,” Thomas (A.k.a The grossest human being to breathe) said. I immediately wiped my shoulder. One time he had to cover my eyes as a surprise (Terrible idea, by the way, he’s a foot shorter than me) and I could smell the semen. I performed a ritual on my glasses after that.

Anyway, Michelle & Wilbur are nowhere to be seen, which freaking sucks. “Jared!” Goddammit. Why is everyone calling my name? Did someone find out what I did behind the chapel at bible summer school? Were my nudes leaked? At least everyone can see how beautiful, tasty, wonderful, and most importantly, scrumptiously sexy I am.

I turn to see it’s Conner. Y’know, the one with the staple in his head? “Let’s hang out,” He said almost orgasmically. Jesus Christ. I guess ‘hello’ and ‘Hey insert!’ is cancelled. Walking up to people practically creaming your pants is the new trend with straight men.

I follow him to the greenhouse. Such a beautiful place for a hormonal child & a gay, skinny, tall trauma victim. “See that girl?” He said, pointing to a tall, slim woman with pigtails. “Uh, yeah. ‘That girl ‘ is Michelle,” I said. “Yeah, yeah. She’s super hot,” He said. I tensed. “She’s a lesbian,” I stated. But something tells me that- “Yeah, and I wanna watch,” I nearly choked on my spit. There it is. Casual fetishization, of course. “I love that short skirt she wears,” “That’s literally our uniform,” I said, rolling my eyes. 

He did the same. “I wish I could see more. It’s a shame she wears those shorts underneath” I’m going to implode. If I didn’t have to keep this emotionless face 24/7 I would’ve death-glared at this kid. “Once again, that’s part of our uniform,” I said, my voice quivering at the end. At this point, I think Daniel stapled his head on purpose. He’s what I like to call an “Undercover feminist” since he’s built like a misogynistic man but he will defend a victim. “Yeah, well, pins aren’t part of our uniform, but you still see people wearing them,” Conner said, sucking on his bottom lip. Gross. “Yeah but that’s adding to the uniform, not taking away,” “Yeah, Yeah, whatever. Does she have a Twitter?” Conner said, cutting me off. Sicko. 

“Yes, but it’s not her body that you want to see so badly

“I wish I could see the rest of her body-”

THUD!

I pinned him to the ground after pushing him down. “Shut the fuck up and get the fuck away from Michelle,” I said in a low whisper. His eye nearly popped out of his sockets. It’s because I cussed, isn’t it? He tried to move, but I held him down, gripping his arm. “We’ll be at the principal’s office now, I’m sure you know the way there,” I stated. He squirmed and screamed. Still, I continued.

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!”

This cunt.

I turned him around and shoved my fingers into his mouth. I felt the vibrations of his voice. Now I feel bad. For me, not him. He squirmed, so I grabbed him using my other arm, practically hugging him from behind. I didn’t realise the crowd of people surrounding us. People took out their phones as I struggled to drag him. The principal’s door got bigger. I took my arm off of him to open the door, my fingers still caressing his throat. I kicked the door open and practically threw him in, the principal staring at us. He got tangled in my uniform. That’s a good thing, he can’t escape. I looked at the principal. “Saying gross things about Michelle Tier & was about talking about sexually harassing her. I’m not sure if he did anything physically in the past,” I said with hurry in my voice.

“Thanks, Jared. Is he alive?” The principal asked without worry. “I hope so,” I replied, grabbing a paper towel and wiping my fingers. I stepped out and wiped my hand. Michelle was waiting for god knows how long. “Er- hey…” She said. Something was off. “Um… there’s a video of you two wrestling going around. Rosal saw and she looked pissed,” She said, worried. “It’ll be fine, Michu. I’ll see you after school.” I said. I nearly tripped and fell right then and there. Of course, Rosal saw the video. Videos spread like wildfire. How could I be so stupid? 

“You should go to the council room,” Michelle said before walking away. She’s right. I walked to the surprisingly empty council room. I ran to the bathroom to sit alone.

I feel something.

An uninvited warmth from below…

God, I’m a mess.

Chapter Text

WILBUR

WEDNESDAY

6TH PERIOD 

"Jared? Jared? Tom? Jarry? Deneuve? Mother Jared? Diaper bag owner?" I waved my hand in front of his face. He spaced out. I had shown him the video of him straddling Conner. 

"Ah," He finally said. "Sorry, I..." He shut his mouth. I pat his shoulder. 

I turned off my phone and melted into my chair.

He was still looking at the spot my phone was, staring off once more.

the End of school

God, today was chaotic. I hadn't seen Jared in 3rd period. It's probably because of the video. Jesus Christ his arms seemed way bigger than before. I got an invitation to talk with the council after school. 

I knocked on the door in front of me. Reece opened the door with a serious look on their face. She was smiling, but it was serious for her. I wonder if all of the student council members are like this. "Alright, sit right there," She said, gesturing to a chair. I sat and quietly coughed. "So Jared..." Darryl started. "He's been getting more distant. Not to mention the thing he did this morning is unlikely of his behaviour. Since you appear to be friends, especially with the collar thing-" He quietly coughed. "I was wondering if you knew why?" I stared at him. "Please explain," I said flatly. He looked away. God, I love socially awkward people. "Well," Herla started. "Though we dislike prying, Jared has been, uh- 'recreating history' if that's what you'd call it." She said. "By that, I mean he's acting how he did when he..." Silence. I was going to ask what, but I sensed it wasn't a good time. "I..." She stuttered. Charlotte looked fed up. "Well... uh-"  

"HE WAS MOLESTED" Charlotte yelled. "A teacher caught sight of his vulnerability, and he's attractive to like, everyone, so she played good teacher until he felt safe enough," She said. "But he realised, thankfully," Reece added. "He got out of the situation, but it still stuck with him,"

It'd felt like an information overload. "I..." I started. "Well, for the question," Everyone looked at me. "I do know that..." 

Wait.

Should I say this?

Jared hates confrontation.

He wants everything to stay the same.

Even if it means suffering.

But these are his friends.

So they'll understand, right?

"First off, you didn't hear this from me, alright?" I said. They looked at each other and nodded. 

Breathe.

"He and his girlfriend have been arguing- well, it's more of Jared trying to please Rosal, and Rosal getting mad at him. I'm unsure as to why, though," I said, occasionally tripping on my words. "And because of her anger, she has taken it out on Jared,"

I inhaled slightly

"Physically,"

Their eyes widened. Are they surprised? Has he never told them? 

"Thank you for -uh- telling us," Darryl said.

"We'll do something about this-" "No!" I yelled, cutting Reece off. "Listen, I know you want to help, but Jared will be destroyed if anything happens or changes," I said, trying to sound calm. "We're aware of that, but this is abuse, it's something that, no matter the boundaries, is to be reported," Reece stated. 

Thoughts swarmed my head.

I messed it all up.

"Well, don't tell him, maybe tell Rosal?" I said. They looked confused. 

Shit. Shit. Shit.

"Uh- I mean as in 'You and Jared don't get along well,' but someone different has to say it, or it'll seem as if you want to date one of them," I said. "That's the problem- that's the new problem," Reece stated. "Maybe I could do it," Herla volunteered. "Do you suppose she's transphobic? I mean, she did defend me when I came out" "That was two comments," Darryl said. "Well, she doesn't have to be involved," Herla said. "But she'll think you're trying to get with Jared," Reece added. "Maybe we should whisper Super Straight into her ear when she's sleeping," Herla joked. 

"It'll be out of the blue, so no, we won't go with your master plan," Charlotte stated, looking at me with furrowed brows.

We sat in silence for a minute.

"Please let him solve it himself," I said, cutting the silence. "Deneuve knows what's good for him," 

"Deneuve?" Reece said with confusion in her voice. 

I blinked. 

Wait. Wait, wait, wait wait, FREAKING WAIT. 

"It's a nickname," I conveyed. They all looked at each other. 

"He allows you to do so?" Reece asked. 

"What do you mean," I questioned, picking at my nails. 

"He hates nicknames. When we call him by a nickname, he gets annoyed & tells us not to call him that. The only nickname he's tolerated was 'Mom' and he still dislikes that one," Darryl said.

I replied with a simple "oh" and we sat there. 

They had forgotten the conversation, but I hadn't. Because holy-

SO YOU MEAN TO TELL ME THAT I'M THE ONLY ONE WITH A NICKNAME THAT HE DOESN'T HATE?

The council tried to fill in the silence with a few ums and well...

Finally, Darryl said something.

"That'll be all. I know he's your tutor, maybe you guys can work something out."

I inhaled.

"Okay."

I stood up and walked to the door, them looking at me. 

I hesitated before opening the door.

Chapter Text

JARED

WEDNESDAY

10:43 PM

I lay back and hugged my pillow. I miss Michelle. She’s so kind and understanding. Truly, she’s the best friend I could ever ask for.

Also, she gave me a Blippi bandaid.

(A/N Unfortunately, those don’t exist. I’m extremely disappointed. Anyway have some angst from Jared’s past)

She reminds me of Maria.

Maria, who goes by Mary.

I dug my fingers deeper into my pillow. I just want to hug her again. I just want to kill that old, awful man. I just want to tell her that hypersexuality is a normal trauma response. If there was anything I could do before I die, that’d be it.

But that’s not possible. She’s dead.

She died when she was eight years old.

And it’s all my fault.

If I had helped her.

If I had taken care of her she wouldn’t have done that to herself

I heard the door unlock.

It was Rosal.

The only one with the second copy key.

I started crying.

Not because of Mary.

I’ve grieved her death 50 times.

It’s because of the weight upon my body.

Her legs wrapped around me.

It was all the same.

I’ve grieved this 50 times.

Just leave me alone.

She grasped tighter.

Stop.

I felt a gentle graze of her acrylic nails dragging up my torso.

Stop.

She leans in. 

I can feel it.

Just stop.

She presses her lips against mine.

Stop, stop, STOP.

She hushes my deep breathing.

She lowers her hands.

I said S T O P.

She continues.

My body twists.

She grabs wherever she can.

The red sign is more visible.

But ignored.

I want to scream.

But I’m so tired I can’t.

My body twist.

I’m just like you, Maria.

Marble paper, I am.

I feel.

I said stop.

THURSDAY

Michelle.

She always catches on. She’s the sapphire to our group. “I’m fine, Michu. I just want to forget,” I said, pulling up my sleeves. I moved my shoulder to keep my phone in place. I grabbed Tammy and put her on the shelf filled with toys & sensory pads. 

“I understand, it’s just-” Michelle took a deep breath before continuing, “You called me at 2:00 am with the text message ‘help’ with no other context.”

I sighed and waved a pipe cleaner in Tammy’s face. 

“Right, I’m sorry about that,” I replied, smiling at Tammy. She kept on flicking her paw. 

Michelle sighed and ruffled something. “Alright, well, take a shower or something.”

I hung up the phone.

It was different today.

I lay in my bathtub. Usually, I take showers, but I couldn’t.

So I sat in my shame.

I don’t even know if it happened.

It could’ve been a dream.

Michelle doesn’t know.

She just thinks I’m stressed.

Now we can’t meet up.

I melted into the tub, wishing I would disappear.

When I got out, I could still feel dirty.

A strange pain that I hated, but would want to feel again just for the experience.

That’s how I felt.

After drying myself off, I felt my back buzz.

Buzz like an old phone.

I reached into my pocket and pulled out my phone.

CALL MR LOUIS.

He immediately picked up the phone.

“Hello?”

“Hello, this is Jared. I’m calling to tell you that I won’t be able to come today,”

I called my other teachers to tell them.

I lay on my back, but it reminded me of the events.

I got up and stared at the wall.

Soon enough, I decided to text my friend.

JarryBarry: Are you at school?

Goldy: How did you know

JarryBarry: I can’t tell if you mean “how did you know I’m at school,” or something else

Goldy: How did you know I’m skipping class

JarryBarry: Bbg I’m skipping the whole day

Goldy: Thanks for the hint

JarryBarry: Oh no

Goldy: nvm people are gone

JarryBarry: imagine

Goldy: The teacher is going insane bc our AC isn’t here

JarryBarry: Do you mean the AC that gets paid or the student?

Goldy: Student.

JarryBarry: My teachers are probably crying rn

Goldy: I can only imagine

Goldy: half of the AC on our side is just gone.

JarryBarry: Wowwww

JarryBarry: Birds of a feather go rogue together

Goldy: is it bad that I enjoy that more than the original?

JarryBarry: It’s me, so

JarryBarry: You’re legally obligated to like it

Goldy: damn.

I continued to text him until he moved to the next period.

That’s when the world closed in again.

It’s supposed to rain, so at least I won’t have to deal with it, plus, I can listen to the rain.

Rain that didn’t play when it happened.

I went on to text the council, who hopefully isn’t watching over a test.

Tom&Jared: Guess who’s not sick, but too tired to care

Hurla: I hate you

PhillyCheeseSteaks: She has to cover for you while doing her class

Tom&Jared: Was the teacher crying?

Hurla: They were about to

Hurla: I think middle school is about to happen again

Tom&Jared: Welp

Tom&Jared: I’m moving to Australia!

Tom&Jared: BYE!

ReesesPuffs: Does that mean you’re breaking up with Rosal?

Choco: Too direct, Reece.

Tom&Jared: huh

ReesesPuffs: dw about it

DaddyBaddy: Why are yall texting

Tom&Jared: It wasn’t me

DaddyBaddy: It was you

Tom&Jared: eurgh- BARK! I’M A DOG! I CAN’T DO THAT BARK BARK WOOF WOOF RUFF RUF RUFFFFF

ReesesPuffs: You’re surprisingly good at that…

PhillyCheeseSteaks: Oh no

Tom&Jared: been watching Red Guy edits

Hurla: Jesus Christ.

(A/N I misspelt Christ and it recommended Jesus Chiropractic)

I picked at my arm. I had to stop picking at my face to keep it smooth.

A text message from Rosie Posie.

Tom&Jared: Rosal just texted me. I have to go.

ReesesPuff: oh.

Hurla: Eh.

DaddieBaddie: Mhm.

PhillyCheeseSteaks: ok

Choco: Erm.

Rosie Posie

_____________________

Why aren’t you here? |

/

_____________________

| I wasn’t feeling well

\

____

Oh. |

/

I hate to admit it, but that pissed me off a bit.

She expects so much from me to the point where if I say ‘no’ she finds a way to get what she wants.

I’m not too phased by last night.

I mean-

Shit.

Now the memory’s back.

What I mean, is that it’s happened before.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t ready, I mean, could you be ready?

Even now, I just wanted to remember Maria, but then she had to sneak in.

I remember the event that made me blame myself.

Such a simple event that doesn’t matter.

Something so small turned into a habit.

I must force myself to like it.

“Hey, Jared?”

“Yes, Posie?”

“We’ve been dating for a while…”

“Eurgh- yes?”

“Well, it’s been a while since we…”

“Rosal, you know I can’t.”

“I’m just saying! I miss you,”

“Well, I’m right here.”

“Yeah, but…”
“Listen, I’m sorry, but I don’t want to.”

“Pleaseeee!”

“No, Rosal.”

“Hmph.”

“I’m sorry,”

Fuck.

It's time for another bath.

I don’t know why I apologised. 

But I wish I had accepted. 

I got up to sit in the bean bag nearby.

Tammy meowed and sat on my knee as I scrolled through my phone.

I bit at the skin on my fingers.

What a horrible feeling.

A text message from Willy Billy

Oh.

What a wonderful feeling.

Willy Billy (McWrib)

__________________

WHERE ARE YOU |

/

________________________________________

YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO BE TUTORING ME |

/

________
BWOMP |

/
________

BWOMP |

/
________

BWOMP |

/

______________

| JESUS CHRIST

\

_______________________________

| I’M SKIPPING THE SCHOOL DAY

\

______

WHY. |

/

______________________________________________________________

FIRST YOU SKIP PERIODS AND NOW YOU’RE SKIPPING SCHOOL? |

/

________________________________________

YOU’RE A HORRIBLE STUDENT COUNCIL |

/

____________________________________

I DON’T MEAN TO JUDGE BUT I DO |

/

____________

| SUCK IT UP

\

_____________________

| GO OUTSIDE OR SUM

\

I smiled at my phone. Texting people always felt better.

(A/N Yeah I get it, Jared, now text on that app so I don’t have to make those text bubbles)

I changed to TikTok 

(A/N Thank god)

I immediately saw a flash of notifications.

Not from TikTok, but from the west school group chat.

To put it simply, the school is separated into sections. North, Northeast, East, you get the idea.

Each section has its own Council.

I checked the chat.

DARRIA: JARED
Oregano: JARED

Wilby: JARED
Conner: JARED
TOMBEATER: JARED
DING: JARED
DONG: JARED
NOBODY: JARED
BENNY: JARED
Caillou: JARED
Brit: JARED
Yuh: JARED
OwchmyPen: JARED

Tom&Jared: WHAT.

TOMBEATER: YOUR GIRLFRIEND

NOBODY: SHE’S RUBBING SOME GUY’S SHOULDER

Yuh: HE LOOKS REALLY UNCOMFORTABLE
OwchmyPen: HE’S TRYING TO PUSH HER OFF.

I sat.

What the fuck?

Chapter Text

Tom&Jared: What? Are you sure that’s Rosal?
Tom&Jared: AND WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY UNCOMFORTABLE?

Caillou: HE SAID “No, you have a boyfriend” 

Tom&Jared: First off, I want a picture, second, stop the woman, whether she’s Rosal or not.

Yuh: Reasonable.

Caillou: Darria just pulled her off. Here’s the picture.

[Drawing]

Tom&Jared: give me a quick second.

Yuh: oh no.

DARRIA: I’m sorry, Jared. But it was definitely Rosal. 

Caillou: how do you know?

DARRIA: she got pissed when I mentioned Jared. She screamed that he “deserved it” or something. I could barely hear her.

Yuh: Jared?

Tom&Jared: hm.

Yuh: Jared? Is there anything you want to say?

Caillou: Jared?
AftonsGF: Jared?
Conner: Jared?
TOMBEATER: Jared?
DING: Jared?
DONG: Jared?
NOBODY: Jared?
BENNY: Jared?
Brit: Jared?
OwchmyPen: Jared?

I lay there.

I’m too tired for this.

My stomach churns the same way it did before.

Am I angry?

Am I sad?

Am I relieved?

Why do I have to ask myself this?

Can’t I just do it myself?

Tammy meows.

I’ll do it myself.

WILBUR

THURSDAY

LAST PERIOD

Today was boring.

Jared was gone, along with many other kids, everyone was sick. It’s that kind of day.

Which is unfortunate, because there’s no one to annoy. 

“William.”

I looked up to see the burnt-out teacher. This is all they are without Jared.

I looked down to find a sheet—a small piece of paper with my name on it. 

“Someone’s picking you up,” He said,  walking to the back of the class

I stepped down the many stairs to the front office, shocked to find a tall, slightly muscular, brown-haired, freckled man, without makeup. 

“Jared?” I whispered.

He looked up at me, appearing sad, his face puffy and pink.  “Sorry for not telling you sooner.”

He gestured toward me. He was picking me up from school. 

“Aren’t you sick?” I asked.

“I’ll tell you in the car,” he said, opening the door for me.

The lady at the front desk looked at us through her square glasses.
I hesitated before leaving as well. We were in the parking lot, and Jared unlocked his car. I stepped on the clean seat with a cat plush in it.

“So,” I started, placing the plush on my lap “Why am I in your car,”

He sighed. “I can’t explain it. I just need some company & I know you hate your last period.”

I can’t reply to that. “So, where are we going?” I asked.

He drove off. “First, I have a drink from my job, no worries, I got it for free. Second, my dorm.”

I stared at him. “Can’t we go to mine? I don’t plan on getting murdered by a deeply troubled man.”

He grabbed a drink and handed it to me. It was a strawberry milk drink with lychee, potato starch boba, & jackfruit. Yum. No, actually yum. It tastes amazing.

“We can,” He started to reply “But I have to bring my cat over.”

I nodded and sipped on my posable straw. He threw a stress ball at me & I giggled, picking it up. He did the same, but he still looked like he was about to cry.  

We stopped at the dorm building. I looked up and he dragged me by the wrist. He led me to his dorm, where he went inside with me. 

“You already unpacked?” I asked, referring to the time we had to go home. 

He scrunched his nose at the slightest “Didn’t pack.”

I picked at my nails as he chased his cat around the room. I took this time to examine his room. There were paintings, drawing supplies, a few litter boxes, & an empty canvas. I noticed how he had a flag on his wall.

His paintings were beautiful. Abstract paintings with models coloured pink, or blue. Some were realistic with a lot of stylisation.

 When he finally caught her, we walked to my dorm.

“What’s her name?” I asked.

“Tammy. I call her Tampon sometimes,” he said. To which I raised the ends of my lips.

He still looked sad but smiled weakly. I sighed & unlocked the door to my room.  He stepped in from behind me. 

“So, what did you pull me out of school for?” I asked.

He sighed weakly and leaned on the wall, sitting on the floor with Tammy digging her face into his chest.

I sat across from him on the floor. 

“I just- needed someone to talk to, & I know how much you hate last period, so I took you out of class. I said that in the car.” He stated without attitude. I sighed in response.

“Well, what do you want to talk about?” I asked, picking at my face. He stared at me as if surprised that I wanted to listen to him.

“Well,” He started.

“I think Rosal cheated on me.”

What?

“I don’t- when? Uh- with who?” I stuttered.

His head shot up at mine. 

“I don’t know. I have a photo, but I don’t know who it is.”

“How did you get a photo? You were sick,” I said, trying to muster any clarification.

“The west side group chat. They sent me it,” He showed the photo to me.

“She did in the hallway? Just- in front of everyone?” I muttered.

He didn’t hear- or ignored- what I said.

“I’m not sure. She could’ve been talking to him, but the whole school was blasting the group chat.”

At that, I pulled out my phone and looked to see many unread messages. I scrolled to the top & read everything I could as quickly as possible.

“I- wow.”

Jared had his head against the wall, only his arm unrested. 

"Are you going to break up with her?" I ask. I can only imagine how risky it would be for Jared to break up with someone as violent as Rosal.

He looked at me weakly.

"No."

Chapter Text

WILBUR
SATURDAY.
I can't fucking believe this.
How fucking terrified does Jared have to be not to break up with a fucking cheater?
He told me on Thursday, I processed it on Friday, and HERE I AM.
FUCK'S SAKE.
I invited Jared over in hopes of making him think of something other than Rosal.
Y'know what? I'm fucking sick. I've come to love you Jared, I really do. But what the FUCK are you doing? I'VE BECOME YOUR FRIEND AND THIS HAPPENS?
I shouldn't be mad at Jared, he's the victim, I understand it's better to comfort than say "I told you so!" when they finally break up. So, let us get pissed at FUCKING ROSAL.
ROSALIE MIAN.
WHAT THE FUCK.
I DATED HER???
I LIKED HER.
JARED LIKED HER???
I'm so fucking sick of this shit. So fucking sick.
Rosal is an abuser & a cheater. Jared deserves somebody better than her.
It's not fair.
Rosalie has never hurt anyone before Jared. I can't help but feel angry, but also pity. What an ass she must be. How the hell did she manage to get such a cute guy?
But Jared isn't cute.
Oh. Wait.
Fuck fuck fuck fuck.
He has his eyes closed, and I can hear him breathe heavily. He's having nightmares.
Shit.
I sit up, grabbing some water from the kitchen.
When I come back, Jared is rubbing himself against a pillow (Not in a sexual way, just trying to get comfortable, I suppose.)
His head rests on the bed, and his chest rises and falls rapidly. The sheets look wrinkled around his knees, indicating that he slept there for a long time. He's still wearing his glasses, the frames are crooked on his face.
I notice how he's awake now.
I hope his nightmare wasn't horrible.
I hold the glass out for him, “Water?"
Jared takes it gratefully. "Thank you," he says.
His voice is raspy, "Sorry. I'll stop."
My heart aches for my friend.
He pulls off his glasses and puts them on the windowsill.
I set up a pillow barrier and climb into the bed.
I'm supposed to hate you.
But I hate your girlfriend more.
I take a sip from the cup, drinking from a different angle to not drink Jared's side.
I close my eyes once I set it down.
I can feel that Jared's breathing becomes slower and calmer. He's asleep.
That's good.
Because if he wakes up again, I will kill him, with a blunt object.

I wake in a dream blurry but vivid. The lights are cool, and the items are
warm-coloured.
I don't think I'm completely asleep, I can hear Jared shuffling.
I can see Jared's silhouette.
The colours are blocked in.
It looks like Jared's sketchbook.
Why is he here?
Where's Rosal?
Wait, he isn't alone.
There she is.
I see him moving closer.
What the fuck.
No. No. NO.
Is she trying to seduce him? Did he say yes?
No!
Did Jared say yes?
I can hear the real Jared breathing, but dream Jared only shudders.
It seems he's fighting something. His eyes snap open and then roll around frantically. His mouth opens, and no words escape. Only soft whimpers, almost like a dog. And he moves slowly like he's being dragged. I feel helpless to move my feet or hands.
I see him reach out towards his girlfriend.
Fuck no! Fuck! No! No!
He sits beside her. She turns towards him.
She kisses him; her mouth is soft, and warm, and tastes like strawberries and vanilla.
I watch.
Dream Jared wraps his arms around her. They make passionate love, I think.
This cannot happen.
All I see is Jared's art style.
They're nude, I've seen Rosal naked before, so she's vivid.
But Jared's body is vague.
But in my head, I see a graphic image.
They're fucking.
Jared looks like he'll cry, but only with his eyes.
Rosal's expression is blank.
Why am I dreaming this?
I want it to stop.
Just stop.

My eyes break open.
It's 4:00 am.
Jared is sitting at the edge of my bed, caressing my head with a wet towel.

He says, "Hey, Wilbur."
"Yeah, man?" I reply. My voice croaks.
"Are you okay? You had a bad dream."
"I had a nightmare," I reply. It feels weirdly natural to tell him about it.
"Do you... Want to talk about it?" Jared asks.
"Nah," I shrug. "It was nothing important."
"You sure?" Jared frowns, clearly concerned by my nonchalance.
"I'm fine," I lie. God, if I told him about my dream.
Jared nods, getting up. Before walking away, he pauses to give me a gentle hug.
I hug back. His body, when his muscles aren't flexed, is so soft. I could melt into his body. I hope I don't dream about it again...

He left. I'm not sure where he is now.
I looked at my phone.
It's still Saturday. I slept for two hours.
And my rest was nothing but Jared's sketchbook.
I wonder if he does draw things like that.
Drawings of him and Rosal fucking.
I wonder if he uses photos of them as a reference.
God, I hate that.
The thought of Jared being this sexual deviant is fucked, and I hate it.

As I text the group chat, I catch myself biting my cuticles. I know why.
I should be my person, not constantly thinking about someone else.
I exist for myself, and that's the way it should be.
Maybe Jared should learn that.

JARED
11:49 am

Fuck.

Chapter Text

I just left Wilbur & I already regret it.
I see Rosalie walking across campus. When I spot her I try to hide.
I don't think she saw me, so I turned to walk in another direction.
Then, out of nowhere, I'm shoved.
I'm pushed hard, falling onto my hands, and I gasp, my eyes widening in fear.
It's not Rosalie.
It's a man, tall & broad. He's smirking. His hair is dishevelled. "So sorry to bump into you", he grins and walks past me again.
I may be attracted to him.

I ran to my dorm.

I eat a stale bag of crackers before it expires.
I curl onto my bed with a menthol cigarette between my lips.
My eyes are heavy, though I can't sleep.
I stare at the ceiling before remembering why I'm fucked.
Rosal.
I opened my phone

Tom&Jared: sorry for not texting for so long, I understand why this could make you anxious but I've been really busy
RosiePosie: fuckkkkkkk
RosiePosie: I miss you bitchhhhh
RosiePosie: sry now im talking like youre one of my girls mb
Tom&Jared: It's fine lmao im just happy you're not mad
RosiePosie: Why would I be
Tom&Jared: idk I'm anxious

Rosal being nonchalant calms me. It calms me because I know it means she won't attack me at night again. Least not for a while. She was satisfied.
I switched to Michelle

Tom&Jared: I just remembered this rn
Mich: oop
Tom&Jared: You invited me to your granny's greenhouse
Mich: oh yeah
Tom&Jared: well I'm tired asf so I won't be going like ever bb
Mich: ima throw what i was gonna give you at that big head of yours
Mich: ik you're hiding it behind those bangs

I turn my phone off.
The lights go out.
I close my eyes, listening to the faint sounds outside.
The sound of wind and the chirp of crickets lull me back to sleep.
My phone dings.
I jump and look down.
RosiePosie: hey babe i hope ur okay <
RosiePosie: Im so fuckin worried about u :(
RosiePosie: dont hide things from me anymore ik you're smoking again
Tom&Jared: Hey I love you but u suck at being empathetic and emotional so let me have this
RosiePosie: :(

And she's back to being my girlfriend again.