:: I'm Not Okay...I Promise:: Gerard Way::

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 31[/u][/b]

‘Come on Frankie give it back!’ He smiled at you and ran downstairs faster than you thought her could. ‘FRANKIE!’ You heard a loud bang and then a couple groans. You walked downstairs and saw him sprawled out on the floor in front of the front door. You walked up to him and pulled your sketch book out of his hands. You slightly kicked him in the side, ‘how many times do I have to tell you, off limits!’ He groaned and clutched his side after you kicked him. ‘Aw come on Bree, you let Gerard see all your work, why can’t the rest of us?’ ‘Gerard hasn’t seen my sketch book!’ Gerard walked down the stairs and heard the last part of what you said, he stood frozen at the bottom steps. He looked back and forth, ‘Gerard?’ ‘Uh, hi sugar.’ You inched a few steps closer to him, ‘what is Frankie talking about?’ ‘I swear man, it slipped out,’ Frankie yelled. You gave him a small kick again. ‘Uh, nothing,’ Gerard said nervously. ‘Don’t lie to me, trust me liar’s don’t live long when in my hands,’ you said, getting closer to him. He glared down at Frankie and then back at you. ‘You don’t want to end up like him do you,’ you asked. He shook his head, ‘no.’ ‘Then just tell me the truth baby.’ ‘I may have taken a few peeks in it before,’ he said quickly. ‘Oh really?’ He said in a high squeaky voice, ‘I love you.’ You leaned in and kissed him softly on the lips and walked upstairs to your room and put your sketch book away after closing your door.

You jumped on your bed and snuggled into the comforter. A soft knock was at your door, ‘sugar?’ Gerard. He slightly opened the door and peeked in and saw you laying down. You raised and eyebrow, while looking at the ceiling, ‘yes?’ ‘Just came up to tell you I’m sorry. Honestly I’ve only looked at your work once and it wasn’t for very long, just a quick glance. I’m sorry sugar,’ he apologized and sat down on your bed. ‘I’m not mad that you saw them, I’m just annoyed at the fact that you didn’t ask, I would have let you, ya know.’ He sighed, ‘sorry, I didn’t know.’ You sat up, ‘I know, don’t worry about it. Last thing I want is you sulking around the house because of me.’ He smiled and kissed you on the forehead, ‘trust me there’s no sulking here.’ ‘Good.’ (This is gonna be a month after the Starbucks incident.) You started to zone out a bit and caught yourself deep in thought, a memory that has haunted you for the past two weeks that just won’t go away.

2 weeks earlier[/b]

‘Bree can I talk to you?’ ‘Yeah sure Jake what about?’ He closed the break room door, you couldn’t help but feel a tiny bit uncomfortable, and even more when you heard the door lock click. ‘Is something wrong Jake?’ ‘No why would you say that,’ he said with a smile and inched a bit closer to you. ‘I don’t know, it just seems odd that you pulled me aside if there isn’t anything to talk about,’ you pointed out. ‘Who said we’d be talking?’ ‘What?’ ‘Come on Bree, you can’t honestly find that Gerard guy anywhere near attractive, can you? Everything you could possibly want is right here.’ ‘Jake,’ you started to back up, but you were cornered. Your only way out was the door, that was behind him. Plus the fact that the room was sound proof didn’t exactly help much. All odds were against you right now, all you wanted right now was Gerard. You slid up against the wall, Jake grabbed your wrists and held you there, his face only centimeters away from yours. You could feel his hot breath against your cheek, shivers of fear went up and down your spine. ‘Jake, what do you want from me?’ ‘Isn’t it quite obvious what I want? You. Gerard doesn’t deserve you, you’re too perfect to be with a freak like him!’ He pressed his lips hard against yours and forced his tongue into your mouth. You managed to free your leg and at the right moment you bit his tongue and kneed him in the groin. He screamed and bent over, letting your arms go free. You quickly grabbed your purse and left through the back door. It was already dark out as you ran out to your car. You drove home quickly and ran right upstairs to your room and cried. Gerard and Mikey were at one of Frankie’s shows tonight, you told them to go on with out you, that you’d catch the next show. Gerard wasn’t too keen on going without you, but you convinced him to go. You ended up falling asleep in your clothes and crying yourself to sleep. It was the worst night ever that you’ve had in months, but you had no idea what to do, quit? No you couldn’t quit, you needed the money and it was really good pay.

‘Uh Bree are you alright?’ You lowered your head, letting a small tear roll down your cheek, ‘no.’ He pulled your face back up, ‘what’s wrong? Why are you crying?’ He wiped away the small tear. ‘Gerard, I have to quit my job.’ ‘Why? What happened?’ You sighed, ‘Jake.’ Gerard frowned and shook his head, ‘I knew there was something I really hated about that guy! What did he do to you?’ ‘He cornered me and kissed me. If I didn’t knee him and bite him, he probably would have raped me, but I got out of there before he could,’ you said softly. ‘When did this happen sugar?’ ‘When you and Mikey went to see Frankie and his band play.’ ‘That was two fucking weeks ago, why didn’t you say anything?’ ‘I was afraid to, I really needed the job, you know to start getting ready for college in the fall.’ ‘Sugar, don’t worry about the money for school, my parents are dealing with all that sort of stuff. Didn’t you know?’ ‘Know what?’ ‘Your parents left you everything, you don’t have to worry about not being able to pay off college, and if worst comes to worst my parents agreed to help out.’ Gerard pulled you into a hug and rocked you in his arms. ‘If you still want a job, I can talk to my boss and get you a position at the comic book store. Think of it this way, you get to hang out with me all day,’ he said, putting a smile on your face. ‘Thanks. I’ll call the main boss and tell them I quit.’ ‘You should tell them what Jake did though, what he did wasn’t fucking right!’ ‘I know, I will,’ you said. ‘Good, sick bastard, doing that to you! I’m so sorry sugar, I should have stayed home that night to be there for you, but no I went out and partied and got drunk with everyone else. I’m so sorry sugar,’ he cooed. ‘I told you to go, it isn’t your fault. It’s his and he’ll pay for it in the end. Guess I should have listened to you a month ago.’ ‘Huh?’ ‘When you said you didn’t trust him.’ ‘Oh yeah. It fucking sucks that this shit had to happen. I was really hoping I was wrong and that he was a guy that was trust worthy.’ ‘Yeah, I know.’ ‘Does Molly know?’ You shook your head, ‘no, but I’ll talk to her later.’ He nodded.

Little did you know he has his own little plan boiling in his head. One word. Revenge.

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 32[/u][/b]

You quit Starbucks and Gerard’s boss was cool enough to agree to hire you at the comic book store. He knew you two were together so he had one rule for you both to follow, besides the rules everyone has to follow, no PDA. Jake ended up getting fired from Starbucks, from what Molly told you. You didn’t bother pressing charges against him, you didn’t want to deal with all that trouble. But deep down you knew you should have. Just a bad feeling. The school year soon was coming to an end and Prom, Graduation, and a bunch of parties were in the planning. You couldn’t wait.

‘You wanna go to the park?’ ‘Yeah sure,’ you said. You and Gerard walked to the park that was only a block or two away. One of your spots. ‘Can you believe we are just about done with this place,’ you said. Gerard shrugged, ‘sort of. I mean, I’ve never complained about living here. Granted it will be different living on our own.’ ‘Ah yeah that reminds me, I think we should tell your parents we’re moving in together, instead of the whole plan of saying I’m living with Courtney and Ivy and you with Frankie and Ray.’ ‘I don’t think that would be a good idea,’ Gerard said, slightly shaking his head. ‘Why not? I’d rather be honest with them, than lie.’ ‘I know it’s just they’re big on the whole living together idea, I asked.’ ‘Oh, I see. But you still want to?’ ‘Well yeah, if you still do.’ ‘I guess, it’s just, it’s gonna be hard trying to cover it up from them, you know?’ ‘Yeah, I know. I’m up for the challenge sugar.’ He kissed you on the cheek and pulled you closer to his side as you walked up to the park bench and sat down. ‘So, are you ready to leave,’ he asked. You sighed, ‘yes and no. I haven’t even been here a whole year, even though it feels like I’ve been here forever. Plus the college is in New York, so memories are going to come back, some happy some pretty bad. I donno, just going to have to see at the time.’ ‘Aw don’t worry sugar, you won’t be alone this time there. You’ll have me and the rest of the gang there at your side to help you along the way. It’s what friends do,’ he said. You snuggled into the crook of his neck, ‘thanks.’

A small water droplet fell on your cheek. You glanced up and saw that the sky had darkened and was beginning to cry. You and Gerard didn’t move until the rain grew heavier. Gerard got up and pulled hood of his zip up hoodie, over his head. You got up and started jumping in the fresh puddles. You jumped in one next to him, soaking the bottom of his pants and his shoes. ‘Hey!’ You laughed and jumped in a few more. ‘Come on baby,’ you grabbed Gerard’s arm and pulled him through the park, both of you laughing and jumping in puddles. You let go of him and ran across the open park field. Gerard ran after you, just as he caught up to you he grabbed your shoulder, causing you to slip backwards, pulling him down with you, into the mud. You both sat up then looked at each other and laughed. Gerard’s hair, soaking wet and plastered to his pale face. His hazel eyes more prominent than usual, a small smile curled on his lips. You smiled, not caring that you were soaking wet and being rained upon. All that you cared about was being there with him. ‘You know what I’ve never experienced,’ you said as you stood up. He got up and inched a bit closer to you, ‘what is that?’ You moved closer to him, your face only an inch away from his. You whispered, ‘getting kissed in the rain.’ He lightly pressed his lips to yours and held you close. This kiss becoming more passionate as the seconds passed and rain drops fell. Your lips slightly parted and soon your tongues caressed and massaged each others. Thunder roared and you broke away form each other. ‘I love you,’ you felt his warm breath on your neck as he whispered into your ear, sending chills down your spine. ‘I love you too,’ you whispered back and kissed him softly for a few seconds then broke away. Lightning lit up the sky, ‘looks like that’s our cue to go home,’ Gerard said softly. He laced his fingers with your and you walked home in the pouring rain.

You both ran when you saw the house. You beat Gerard to the door and ran inside. Gerard walked in behind you and closed the door. The house was pitch black. The only light you could see was the little that was coming from the windows, and more when lightning flashed. ‘Mikey!’ You walked into the kitchen, Gerard very close behind you. ‘Mom? Dad? Anyone!?’ ‘I don’t think anyone is here,’ you said and turned on the lights. ‘Odd,’ Gerard said raising one eyebrow. On the table you saw a piece of paper with Mikey’s scratchy handwriting on it.

Hey guys! Wasn’t sure when you’d be back. Mom is as work and Dad went on another business trip. I’m at Ray’s house, call my cell when you get back! -Mikey

‘Well looks like we have the place to ourselves,’ you said. Gerard smiled. ‘I’m going to clean up before I get sick, so should you,’ you said, poking him in the chest. He shook his head like a dog to get the extra water off him. ‘I’m done,’ he said with a goofy smile. You rolled your eyes and went upstairs, grabbing a fresh towel and clothes. Halfway through your shower the lights started to flicker a little. A bit nervous, you started to hurry up and finish. You turned off the shower and wrapped the towel around yourself. You got out of the shower and everything went black. ‘Gerard!’ ‘I didn’t do anything,’ he answered. You sighed and searched for the door knob, you found it and stepped into the hallway. ‘Go find a flashlight,’ you told him. ‘How am I supposed to find one if I can’t see anything?’ ‘Good point. Well um, try letting some light in, you know open the blinds.’ You heard him opening the blinds, you felt around for your bedroom door, since it was pitch black still upstairs and all the bedroom doors were closed. You found your doorknob and opened the it. Lightning flashed and you saw the silhouette of the one who haunted your dreams. You stood frozen, ‘hello Bree. Pleasure seeing you again. I have an offer for you, but it can wait until our next visit and when you’re more decent. Good evening.’ another flash of lightning lit up your room and he was gone. You quickly opened up your blinds and let some light come in so you could change. You put on a pair of jeans and a t-shirt and ran out of your room and into the hallway. You ran into something hard and fell onto the ground. ‘Umpf,’ you heard Gerard say underneath you. ‘What’d you see a ghost or something, sugar? Or are you planning on taking up football?’ ‘Not funny, you said rubbing your side. ‘Seriously thought, what’s wrong?’ ‘Nothing, I just don’t like it when the lights go out,’ you lied. ‘Aww sugar, don’t worry, I’m here,’ he said and hugged you. You looked around the hallway and back into your room. You were dreading going to sleep tonight. What was he talking about? An offer, what kind of offer? You started to squeeze Gerard without realizing it. ‘Sugar, I can’t breath, are you sure there isn’t something wrong?’ You let go of him, ‘oh sorry. No I’m fine.’ ‘Come on lets get downstairs where we can actually see a bit better, plus I found a flashlight. I forgot we kept on in the kitchen drawer in case of emergencies. I think this calls for it.’ He flicked on the flash light and shinned it on you. He looked at you funny. ‘What?’ ‘Nothing, you just look like you’ve seen a ghost or something, your face is so white compared to usual,’ he pointed out. You shook your head, ‘it’s nothing, okay?’ ‘Okay,’ he said backing off a bit. ‘Lets go downstairs or something, I don’t want to stay up here anymore,’ you said and got up. You two walked downstairs and sat in the family room and sat by the window and watched the storm calm down. After a little while Gerard got up. ‘Where are you going?’ ‘I’ll be right back,’ he said and walked down into the basement. A few minutes later the lights turned on. Gerard came back up, ‘forgot about the circuit breaker box.’ You shrugged, ‘it’s alright, the storm is just about over anyways. You think anyone else lost power?’ ‘Probably, we’re all pretty close to each other.’ ‘Should we try calling Mikey?’ ‘Yeah, in a little bit.’

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 33[/u][/b]

‘What’s the use?’ You rolled over and looked at the clock, 2 AM. You couldn’t sleep. No matter how hard you tried you just couldn’t sleep. It had been a few days since the day the power went out and the vampire from your nightmares visited you. You hadn’t seen him in your dreams or anything, which you found slightly odd. He was always in your dreams, no matter what, even the happy ones, he was usually then just standing off to the side, observing. Letting you enjoy a happy, normal, dream for a change. You sat up in your bed, the moonlight spilled into your room, casting a glow on everything and causing the shadows to morph into unusual shapes.

‘Bree….’ You heard a faint whisper, accompanied by a low laugh.

You looked around your room and saw nothing. ‘It’s just my imagination,’ you told yourself. ‘Maybe if I just got a glass of water or something, maybe then I’ll be able to go to sleep,’ you thought. You got out of bed and crept down the hallway and down the stairs to the kitchen. You turned on the kitchen light and walked over to the cabinet, pulling out a glass. You felt a cold hand on your shoulder, you jumped and turned around. You were face to face with, Him. His black slicked back wavy hair, his piercing gray blue eyes, his ghostly pale skin that had zero imperfections, you looked a bit further down, over the bottom lip peeked out two pearly white fangs. You gasped and took a step back, bumping into the counter. ‘Hello, darling,’ his cold voice said, with a smile playing on his lips. ‘Who are you?’ You tried hiding your fear, but you failed at it, your voice trembled. ‘I’m hurt Bree, you don’t remember my name? You’ve been to my mausoleum in the cemetery, don’t you remember?’ You whispered, ‘Corpseweb.’ He smiled, ‘indeed. So I trust you remember the story your beloved Gerard told you. The one about how I own the Belleville mansion and the dark history it holds.’ You slightly nodded. ‘Thought you would, don’t worry, I’m not going to hurt you, so you can relax, I fear if you get anymore tense dear, you’re going to crush the glass in your hand. Wouldn’t want glass shards all over the place, now do we?’ You shook your head and put the glass down on the counter. ‘What do you want with me,’ you asked, doing your best to ease up. ‘I think we can help each other Bree, not now, but in the future. You see, as you already know, I’m a vampire. But in my case, I have a curse held over me, when I died, Heaven wouldn’t take me, so they made me what I am, undead and forever to walk the earth for eternity. But while I walk this earth, I have to kill 1000 evil men, not women, just men. And you see, there’s a large part of the story of the mansion that is left out, that no one knows about. I did not kill my family, my brother did. He was always jealous of me, I had a beautiful wife who I adored, 2 wonderful children, a home that surpassed anyone’s in all of the state, a job that kept me living a wonderful life. A happy life. My brother, Shamus, hated me for it. He had nothing, he lived on the streets, he was a drunk. He never wanted to go anywhere in live, just skim by and do the bare minimal. I tried a number of occasions to help him, but he refused my help,’ the vampire sighed. ‘But one night he came into my house and killed my wife and children. You have seen the scenes of their deaths, quite tragic I know. I apologize for causing you such nightmares. I just needed someone to see what happened to them. I wasn’t a vampire at the time when all of this happened, part of me wish I was, for revenge. On the contraire, that night, I hung myself, next to my son. Like I have told you, I was sent back down here, to do a task that not only will get me into heaven and be with my family bit to also satisfy the taste of revenge I so highly crave,’ he finished his story.

‘So what exactly does this all mean to me?’ ‘Well, Bree, I’ve been watching you, even when you lived in New York. I know about your troubles with the gentleman you come across with, besides Gerard. Gerard is safe, do not worry about him. I know what rests in your future Bree, and I believe I can help you when those events come to happen. I cannot help prevent these events from happening, but help you deal with them afterwards. The only one that can care and comfort you is Gerard. Gerard has much more to offer than you believe and loves you more than any man you’ll ever cross paths with. You will know when to call for me, I will be watching, waiting, and standing ready for when you call for my help. You won’t need to speak out loud to call for me, just think of me, or the image of me, I will know and I will come,’ he said with a nod. ‘Wait so, something is going to happen in my future, something bad?’ ‘I cannot say anymore, only what I have told you already and that I am very close to my last few killings before I can go into Heaven, you were someone I was assigned to look after a few years ago. I think your father had something to do with it, you will be the last person that I will see before I pass and you will be greatly rewarded in the end, I promise.’ He bowed and disappeared.

You turned around and grabbed the glass off the counter and got yourself a drink of water. You gulped it down and slowly walked upstairs. ‘I’m going insane,’ you mumbled to yourself. You passed your room and walked into Gerard’s. The only one you knew who could comfort you and help you get to sleep. He was rolled over with his back towards you, there was enough room for you to slip into his bed next to him. You pulled back the sheets and got in. You felt him turn over once you started to drift a little. You felt his arms wrap around you and pull you close to him, you made a small smile then drifted off to sleep finally.

Alarm clocks should die…

You woke up to the stupid thing beeping at you to get up. You slowly opened your eyes and looked around, ‘how did I get in Gerard’s room?’ You heard Gerard moan at the annoying sound, he leaned over you and shut it off. ‘Stupid piece of shit should die, who ever thought up this fucking thing should be shot,’ he mumbled. ‘Agreed,’ you said with a yawn. ‘This is a nice morning, waking up to you next to me, I can get really used to this,’ he said with a tired smile. You rolled over so you were facing him then kissed him on the tip of his nose, then snuggling into his warm bare chest. ‘When did you come in here last night?’ ‘I think around 3 or so, I don’t really remember,’ you said. ‘Did you have nightmares again or something,’ he asked, running his fingers through your hair and giving you a kiss on your forehead. ‘Yeah,’ you lied. ‘I’m sorry babe, if I would have known that story would give you nightmares, I never would have told it to you, I’m sorry.’ ‘Don’t worry about it, I don’t think I will be having anymore anyways. Plus I asked you to tell me the story, so it’s sorta my fault,’ you said. ‘No more nightmares, aww man!’ ‘What? You like the fact I wake up in cold sweats?’ ‘Well no, but that means we won’t be having these lovely sleepovers anymore.’ You gave a sly smile, ‘don’t be so sure about that Mr. Way.’ His face lit up, ‘really?’ You slightly giggled and kissed him softly before rolling out of bed. ‘School,’ you moaned and left him in bed and ran to take a shower and get ready.

Walking downstairs you swore you felt eyes watching you. You stopped half way down and looked behind you. Nothing. You shook it off and headed into the kitchen. Mikey was already there, reading a comic book while eating his cereal. ‘Hey Mikey,’ you said while getting a bowl and spoon. You sat down across the table from him. You looked at the cover of the comic book, X-Men. You rolled your eyes, ‘brothers.’ Mikey didn’t look up, he kept on reading while attempting to get the spoonful of cereal into his mouth. Missing, and getting it all over his pants. He didn’t even notice. You finished eating as Gerard came downstairs ready for school.

When you got to school, there were teachers outside directing all of you to go to the auditorium for an assembly. Kids asked, what it was about, but the teachers just shooed them off and told them that they would find out soon. You all walked into the auditorium and sat in the back row. On the stage was Principle Treasurer , holding a microphone in one hand. The last few people sat down and the teachers told everyone to be quite. ‘I’m sure you are all wondering why exactly we have gathered you all in here this fine morning. As most of you know, our school, isn’t a public school, it’s a private school. We take great pride in this school, we have excellent honors, amazing athletics, but our presentation lacks tremendously. Therefore we shall be changing our dress code.’

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 34[/u][/b]

‘UNIFORMS! Are they fucking insane!?’ ‘I know, what the hell is up with this? It’s our last year and they decide to spring this on us now? We have 2 months left of school!’ You all walked to your first period classes pissed off. ‘You know, the uniforms didn’t look that bad,’ Mikey piped in. He got 9 death glares shot in his direction. ‘It’s not so much the fact that they are ugly, it’s the fact that it’s our last 2 months at the school and they decide to make us wear them,’ Ray snapped. ‘But come on guys, they really aren’t that bad, plus you’ll only have to wear them 2 months, look at me and Vanessa, we have to wear them for 2 more years,’ he said. ‘I don’t want to wear a skirt for the next 2 years, granted it isn’t that ugly, but still, skirts are such a pain in the ass,’ Vanessa said. ‘Curse this school for deciding to go all Private and preppy on us,’ Frankie said, shaking a fist in the air. ‘Look guys, there’s really not a whole lot they can do, our parents signed the forms in the beginning of the year, that if there were any changes that we had to abide by them, this is one of them. Suck it up guys, wearing khaki pants, a button up shirt, a tie and a jacket isn’t going to kill you,’ Mikey said. ‘Easy for you to say, you guys still get to wear pants, while we have to wear skirts that look more like kilts, button up blouses, and knee high tights, not to mention our hair has to be pulled up all the time, and all unnatural hair colors have to be removed, forget that little detail in there,’ Courtney said. ‘Aww poor Frankie,’ Ivy said. ‘Eh, I’ll just dye it all black, no big,’ he shrugged off. Gerard put his arm around your waist, ‘you know skirts aren’t always that bad of a clothing item,’ he whispered. You rolled your eyes and poked him in the side, ‘don’t even think about it you.’ He gave a low laugh, you all split off to your first period classes. The rest of the day went by quickly. At lunch, everyone was talking about the uniforms. Some were happy to see the change, others weren’t , some weren’t even phased by it. At 7th hour, the teachers handed out the order forms for the uniforms and expected them to be turned in the next day. You just needed to get it signed, they were already paid for from your admission fee’s to go to the school.

Gerard, Mikey, and you all handed your forms to Donna. ‘What are these?’ ‘A stupid agreement form for the uniforms we have to start wearing next week. They need sizes, how many to get, and your signature,’ Gerard said. There was a picture on the back of the form, of the uniforms. She flipped over the sheet of paper and looked at them, ‘they don’t look so bad, actually they look very nice.’ You and Gerard groaned, Mikey just had a smile. There was a list of the new dress code rules as well, including the hair dye rule. ‘Well Bree it looks like we’re gonna have to take you to get rid of those turquoise highlights you have,’ she said. You totally forgot about those, even though you were all talking about it earlier, it didn’t even phase you that you had them.

You were all walking around the mall, bored out of your minds. You ere in the mood to change your look a bit. You spotted the hair salon, ‘perfect,’ you thought. ‘Hey Ivy, wanna go get some highlights,’ you asked her. ‘Yeah sure, why not?’ You two parted from the group, telling them that you’d meet up with them later and if it got too late you’d just meet up with them at home. ‘So what exactly are you planning on doing to your hair,’ Ivy asked. ‘You’ll see!’ An hour later, you came out of the salon with bright turquoise highlights through out your hair. ‘Damn, that is fucking awesome! What do you think Gerard will say?’ You shrugged, ‘I donno, but I hope he likes it. I’ve been wanting to do this to my hair forever, just had the chance now to do it.’ You glanced down at your watch, ‘they should still be here, wanna call them up and meet them somewhere, but not tell them what I did?’ Ivy had an evil grin on her face, ‘yeah, lets!’ ‘Okay!’ You called up Gerard and thankfully they were still at the mall, they were in Hot Rags, your favorite store next to Hot Topic. The stores were similar but they carried a few other bands merchandise there. You had Ivy walk in first when you got there. You saw them chatting a bit and Gerard looking around for you. Gerard started to look a bit worried, so you decided to walk into the store with your head down and walking past them. Gerard didn’t realize it was you at first until Mikey pointed you out. ‘Hey Bree, we’re over here!’ You turned around and smiled, Gerard turned around and looked at you, his jaw dropped. ‘Sugar, what’d you do to your hair?!’ You smiled, ‘I dyed it, you like it?’ ‘Damn babe, I don’t like it, I love it! What made you do it?’ You shrugged slightly, ‘I’ve always wanted to have my hair like this, the opportunity just came up so I did it.’ ‘Damn, Bree,’ Frankie said admiring your hair. ‘Finally someone has joined me on the colorful side of hair colors!’ Frankie stuck his tongue out at everyone else but you. You all laughed. Everyone complimented you on your new hair. You’ve kept it like that ever since.

‘I don’t wanna have to give up my highlights, they weren’t cheap,’ you pouted in your room. ‘Aw I know sugar, how about this, you can get them done again right after graduation, my treat,’ Gerard offered. ‘I guess. Stupid dress code,’ you said and kicked your foot out at nothing but air. You rested your head on Gerard’s shoulder. ‘I know, it isn’t fair. But as I’ve thought about it, Mikey has a point. It’s only for 3 months, it could be a whole lot worse, they could be like ‘No we’re making you stay here for a 5th year and split up the classes, all girls in one class and all boys in the other!’ Now that would really suck, don’t ya think?’ You sighed, ‘yeah that would be hell alright, I thought the school was a public school, that’s what I was told in the beginning.’ ‘It’s a private public school. Kinda hard to explain really. Like they let anyone in but the state doesn’t fund them, basically all the money they get is from admissions and stuff. So really they can do whatever they want with us, without harming us in any way, freely. If they want to change the dress code 6 months into the school year, then they will, they can careless what we think. No pointing fighting it either,’ Gerard explained. ‘They’re making me wear a skirt! That’s just evil!’ Gerard laughed, ‘I won’t mind that too much.’ You gave him a slight shove, ‘what I can’t help it, it’s hormones!’ You gave a heavy sigh. Gerard pulled you close and you repositioned on your bed. He was cross legged, and you were leaning back with your back to him and his arms crossed across your stomach, holding you. You traced little hearts on his arms and hands. Gerard slightly giggled. ‘What?’ ‘Nothing, it just kinda tickles, what you’re doing.’ You nodded and laced your fingers with his.

You don’t ever remember feeling so safe in anyone else’s arms but Gerard’s. When he holds you, you never want to let go, all your problems just disappear for those moments when you’re with him. Alex never brought this sort of comfort to you, ever. You were basically like his trophy girl, just something he could have on his arm to show off. You never really knew any of his friends, they never talked to you and you never bothered to talk to them, you never saw the point. Doesn’t matter anymore anyways. That part of your past died. You actually had a lot going for you now. You haven’t cut since that day after the car accident, you had A’s in all your classes, you had amazing friends, and to top it all off, Gerard. If you hadn’t of met him, you probably wouldn’t be alive right now, and if you were still alive, your life would be seriously fucked up. Funny how simply moving, meeting new people and having a beautiful relationship with someone can change everything around so quickly.

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 35[/u][/b]

The weekend quickly came and you had to change your hair color. You pretty much sulked around the whole time and would mutter how unfair this was. You knew eventually you’d get over it and it was only going to be for 2 months then you could go and get the streaks put in, thanks to Gerard. After getting your hair one solid color, your natural color, black, you went right to your room and put on some pajama’s. You curled up under your sheets and closed your eyes, you didn’t sleep but it looked like you were. You heard your door open, you slightly peeked one eye open, Gerard. You closed your eye and pretended to sleep. Gerard sat down on your bed and you felt him put something down at the foot of your bed. You felt his hand brush away the hair that had fallen in front of your face, he tucked it behind your ear. A few seconds later you felt his lips lightly pressed against your cheek. Inside you were smiling. He sat there and looked around your room silently. ‘I brought you your uniforms, hah wow, I’m talking to you while you’re sleeping. I am a dork. Whatever. I never have told you how proud I am of you, how you’ve turned around since last summer. Then again, you helped me turn around too. I haven’t touched a single drug, I haven’t gotten depressed, and everything seems to be improving in general. I’ve told you how much I love you right? Yeah probably a hundred times, but I mean it I really do. I don’t think I can see myself sharing my life with anyone but you, Bree. You brought me out of my depression, the first time I saw you. Remember that day you were moving in and you and your mom were bringing in bed frame. Yeah, I only gave you a small smile, unlike Mikey, he’s such a dork, but he’s younger so what do you expect?’ He took your hand in his and rubbed his thumb over the top of your hand, then kissed your knuckles. You heard him sigh and he put your hand back down on the bed. Little did he know that you heard every single word he just said.

A few minutes later you heard him shake a box and slide something out. You knew what he was doing and you weren’t about to let him do that in your room. You peeked open one eye and saw the box in one hand and the cigarette in the other, bringing it up to his mouth. You snatched the box out of his hand and threw it across the room. He didn’t realize what happened until he heard the box hit the wall and fall right into the garbage can. ‘Don’t you dare think of lighting that in my room babe,’ you said. He jumped, ‘whoa, I thought you were asleep!’ You shook your head, ‘nope, I was up the whole time, it just looked like I was sleeping. Come here.’ He scooted closer to you, you pulled the cigarette out of his hand and aimed for the garbage can and made it. ‘Hey, those things aren’t cheap,’ he whined. ‘I told you, if you were gonna smoke, you had to do it outside or not around me. You know I hate the habit, what made you think I’d let you smoke in my room!?’ ‘Sorry sugar,’ he said, a guilty look across his face. ‘Don’t do it again,’ you said and kissed him on the tip of his nose. He nodded and started to walk over to the garbage can to get the box out. ‘Oh no you don’t!’ He looked at you with his eyebrows raised, ‘what?’ ‘They’re in the garbage now, you can’t have them back!’ ‘But, but-’ he whined. ‘Nope, they’re gone. Think of this as your punishment,’ you said. ‘Aw man, no fair!’ ‘Life aint fair babe, I think you’ll live with out your nicotine fix for a few days.’ He sulked back over to the bed and sat down next to you, ‘I guess so.’ ‘Babe, it’s not gonna kill you, if anything you’ll live a bit longer and trust me that will be a good thing in the end,’ you said with a wink. Gerard perked up a bit, ‘how so?’ ‘Hmm, you’ll see…one day.’ He let out a heavy sigh and fell back onto your bed. You laid down next to him and stared up at the glow in the dark star covered ceiling.

The gray clouds outside began to cry. The light pitter patter sound at your window calmed your nerves, making you close your eyes. You felt Gerard’s arm lightly brush against yours, his hand grabbing your own. You repositioned so your head was his stomach. ‘I love it when it rains, everything is just so much more relaxing when it rains,’ you said. ‘You’re right, it’s like every problem just washes away for that moment in time and all that you can think about is what is happening right now that is good, because in a floats away into the sewers with the rain water,’ Gerard said. ‘Water means purity, or so that’s what I’ve been told. So yeah, that makes sense, it gets rid of the bad to let the good shine through,’ you said. ‘You know what?’ you turned your head a little, ‘what?’ ‘You’re my rain,’ he said and stroked his fingers through your hair. You blushed a little, ‘you’re my rain too.’


‘Aww look Ray, they’re having a special moment together, how sweet,’ you heard Mikey mock. You and Gerard both shot up and glared at them. ‘Hey it was all him,’ Ray said pointing to Mikey. ‘Michael James Way, I thought we agreed about this!? I wouldn’t poke in on you and Vanessa, so you wouldn’t poke in on me and Bree!’ Mikey shifted his eyes, ‘RAY! RUN!’ ‘What the hell!? I didn’t do anything wrong!’ Gerard got up and ran after Mikey. Ray stood in the door way. ‘Don’t worry about it Ray, you’re not the one in trouble, Mikey is. Good thing you’re not sleeping over tonight,’ you laughed. ‘Why, what would happen if I stayed the night?’ ‘Remember the day Frankie and Mikey came to school with paint on their faces?’ ‘Uh yeah.’ You smile and nodded. ‘Oh okay. Mikey! I don’t think I’m gonna be able to stay the night,’ Ray yelled down the stairs. You burst out laughing, ‘smart choice.’ ‘So what do you think Gerard will do to him this time?’ ‘Hmm, I donno, but I want to be there to see Mikey’s reaction!’ ‘AHHHHHHHHHH!’ BANG! You could hear Mikey screaming and running around the house for his dear life. ‘Something fell,’ Ray said. ‘Yeah, I heard. Whatever it was, I hope it wasn’t expensive or non replaceable.’ ‘Yeah, Donna would kill them if it was,’ Ray nodded. ‘Should we check on them?’ Ray nodded, ‘yeah, it’d just be weird having only one of them alive.’ ‘True,’ you got up and you both headed down the stairs. ‘You know, you still are really pretty with just all black hair, actually I kinda like it better this way,’ Ray complemented you. You gave a half smile, ‘thanks.’ ‘Where did you get the black hair from, from what I remember your mom had blond hair and so did your brother.’ ‘My dad,’ you said softly. ‘Oh.’ ‘Don’t feel bad about asking, I just don’t really talk about my family much anymore,’ you said. ‘Why not? They were great people, granted I didn’t know your dad, but from what I could tell what you would say about him, he seemed like a really cool guy. Trust me, that’s really hard to find now a days in our society. Very few families have little or no problems at all. Yours was perfect!’ ‘Thanks,’ you said.

‘Children!’ You found Gerard on top of Mikey, hitting him with a pillow. Mikey’s hands flailing in front of him to block the hits. Gerard and Mikey froze and looked at you. You walked over and pulled the pillow out of Gerard’s hand. ‘I’ll be taking that,’ you said. You turned around but then turned back and looked at Gerard with a smile and then you whacked him one right in the face with the pillow. He looked at you and started to laugh, ‘I can’t believe you just did that!’ He got up and walked over to the couch and sat down. You sat down next to him. Mikey got up off the floor and ran for his dear life. ‘Should I go get him, you know if he goes outside, with his luck he’s gonna get struck by lightning and we’re gonna be making a lovely trip to the hospital, again,’ Ray asked. ‘Yeah, go get him. That’s the last thing mom is gonna wanna deal with, more hospital bills thanks to him. She’s still pissed about how he brought the T.V. into the bath tub with him, claiming he got better reception in there!’ You remembered that, you were in your room too when it happened. He blew a fuse, he was put in the hospital for a week for a mild voltage of electrocution. Ray ran outside after Mikey and somehow managed to calm him down and get him inside. ‘So wanna watch T.V.?’ Gerard laughed, ‘if you can find the remote!’ You looked around, ‘hmmm, get up!’ ‘Why?’ ‘Just get up,’ you ordered. ‘Okay, I’m up,’ he said and stood up off the couch. You searched through the seat cushions, nothing. ‘Damn, oh well, no T.V. for us then.’ Gerard shrugged, ‘there’s never really anything on, on Sunday’s anyways.’ ‘Yeah, good point.’ Gerard looked at you with an evil smile. ‘What?’ ‘How bout you go try on that school uniform that came in today!’ ‘UGH! Fine, have to wear it tomorrow anyways, mind as well make sure the stupid thing fits!’

‘Uh Gerard, I think something is wrong with this uniform,’ you said through the bathroom door. ‘Lets see, maybe it’s something that can easily be fixed,’ he said. ‘No I don’t think it’s fixable,’ you said. ‘Whatever, just come on out, it’s probably nothing anyways,’ he said, trying to get you to come out. ‘Fine,’ you said and opened the door. You felt awkward, in your opinion the skirt was too short for school. ‘What’s wrong with it, you look hot sugar!’ You tugged on the skirt, ‘I donno, it just feels too short, I’m not used to showing off this much leg, I’m used to wearing pants all the time.’ Gerard shook his head, ‘you like perfect to me!’ You held the tie behind your back, ‘I need your help with something.’ ‘What?’ You stuck out the tie in front of you, he smiled and walked closer to you. He put his hands on your waist and lifted you up onto the counter top and let your legs hang over it. ‘Lift up your hair.’ You did and he put the tie around your neck and began to tie it. He got it just right and you fixed the collar of the button up white cotton shirt. He dropped his hands down to the counter top next to your thighs. His thumb lightly rubbing the skin that was showing. He kissed you softly, you put your hands on his shoulders. His hands started to creep up your legs, you pulled away. ‘Don’t abuse the privilege of seeing me in a skirt every day Mr. Way,’ you warned him. He moved his hands to your waist and helped you off the counter. ‘Don’t worry, I’ll be a good little boy the next 2 months,’ he said holding up two fingers, ‘scouts honor.’ ‘You weren’t in boy scouts.’ ‘Yeah, I know, but I still promise.’ You gave a half smile and kissed him on the cheek and changed out of the stupid uniform you had to wear.

(( If you’re wondering what the uniforms look like, think of the one’s from the I’m Not Okay video, they look like those!))

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 36 [/u][/b]

‘Bree, this skirt keeps riding up from my bag,’ Courtney whined. ‘Yeah, so is mine babe, maybe we should just carry our books,’ you suggested. ‘Uh! And never use my Jack Skeleton bag? I don’t think so,’ Courtney protested. ‘Well, it’s either that, or show everyone in school your ass,’ you said. ‘Let her keep the bag,’ Ray yelled. The guys all burst out laughing, while all of you, the girls, gave them dirty, disgusted looks. ‘I’m gonna just use Jack on the weekends then,’ Courtney said with a sigh. ‘Damn it,’ Ray cursed. ‘Aw baby, I think you’ll live,’ Courtney said, giving him a slight shove. You all walked into the school. You looked over at Gerard, he didn’t look quite like himself. Yeah he had his uniform on, which he really didn’t look that bad in actually, maybe because you were used to seeing him in ties occasionally. But he still didn’t look quite right. ‘You feeling alright babe, you don’t look so good,’ you asked, putting a hand up to his forehead. He looked down at you with tired eyes, ‘not really,’ he said, barely audible. ‘Aww babe, you wanna go to the nurse?’ He slowly nodded, you looked over at Mikey. He looked a bit worried about his older brother. Gerard rarely ever got sick, usually it was Frankie or Mikey that got sick. Last time Gerard stayed home was because he had pneumonia, which scared you half to death. You pretty much stayed with him the whole time, even when he was sleeping. You didn’t care if you got sick, you just wanted to see him feel better, like now. ‘You guys go ahead to class, I’m gonna take him to the nurse,’ you told everyone. They all went off to class, Mikey the last one to go. He hugged you and whispered, ‘take care of him, I think you’re the only reason he’s still living sometimes. I don’t wanna lose him.’ You nodded and he gave you a smile and said good bye to both of you.

The bell rang, the halls emptied and soon you were waiting in the office, waiting to see what was gonna happen with Gerard. Either he gets to go home or sleep in the nurse’s office. A little while later the nurse came out, ‘Bree?’ You looked up, happy to see her, ‘yeah?’ ‘Gerard agreed that it would be better if he went home. So I’m granting you an off campus pass to take him home,’ she said. ‘Okay,’ you nodded. A few seconds later a very pale Gerard came out from behind her. ‘Ready to go home sweetie? He silently nodded. ‘Come on,’ you took his hand and walked out to his care. You drove him home.

He curled up under his sheets and closed his eyes. You really didn’t want to leave him, so you sat down at his desk and watched him sleep. You didn’t want to go back to school. Mikey’s words kept replaying over and over in your mind. ‘Am I the only reason he still is alive,’ you asked yourself. You sighed and looked around the room at his Iron Maiden posters. You looked over at him, still sleeping. You sat down at his desk again, you heard your cell phone beep, text message. You looked at the caller ID, Mikey.

Mikey: Hey Bree! How’s Gerard?
You: Hey Mikey. I brought him home, he’s still sleeping.
Mikey: that’s good. So are you coming back to school?
You: Not sure. I don’t think so.
Mikey: Okay, I’ll have the others get you your homework and stuff.
You: Thanks.
Mikey: Hey Bree?
You: Yeah?
Mikey: Thanks for looking out for him, he really loves you.
You: No problem Mikey. I love him too.
Mikey: : ]
You: : ] I’ll see you later!
Mikey: Yeah, bye!

You hung up the phone and set it down on the desk. You walked into your room and changed out of your uniform and into something more comfortable. Your stomach growled. Lunch time. You debated on either cooking something or going out and getting something. You came to an agreement. You’d go out and get something for yourself, and then make some soup for Gerard for when he gets up. You brushed out your hair and grabbed $20, and your car keys. You left a note for Gerard on his night stand, in case he got up while you were gone. You kissed him on the forehead and headed out to go and get lunch, at your usual place. The little diner you and Gerard would usually go to on the weekends or when it was just the two of you.

You drove and pulled into the parking lot. Trying to rush, you ran inside. It was practically empty. You looked around the diner as you walked up to the counter. You ignored the sound of the door opening behind you. You ordered your usual then stood off to the side and twiddled with your keys. You felt two arms wrap around your waist and the placing of soft kisses on your neck. You pushed away from the person and looked at them. ‘What the hell are you doing,’ you yelled. ‘Oh calm down baby, I didn’t hurt you,’ he said. You glared at him, raging with fire inside. ‘Jake I swear, if you ever come near me, I will have a restraining order put on you,’ you threatened. He smirked at you, you turned back around and with a disgusted look. You grabbed your order and left. You quickly drove home, blasting the music in the car to release your anger. You turned it off when you pulled into the drive way.

You set your lunch down on the table and started making Gerard’s soup. Once it was at a controllable temperature, you let it settle and went up stairs with some medicine for him. You quietly slipped into his room. You noticed he was sitting p in bed, sketch book on his lap, pencil stroking along the page surface. ‘You’re up,’ you said, rather surprised. He looked up at you and gave you a weak smile and nod. ‘I’ve got soup for you downstairs and your medicine, which do you want first?’ ‘Soup.’ He closed his sketch book and followed you down to the kitchen. ‘What kind is it?’ ‘Chicken noodle,’ you told him. He sat down at the table, you brought it over along with a glass of water and two pills. You sat down next to him and started eating your food. He eyed yours as you ate. ‘Sorry babe, you won’t be able to hold this stuff down, soup for you,; you said, feeling rather guilty. ‘No fair,’ he muttered. You kissed him on the cheek, ‘I’m sorry. But I don’t think you want to upset your stomach again like what happened in the car,’ you said. Take three guesses what happened there, he’s got the stomach flu. Need there more to be said?

You two finished up eating and ended up on the couch under a blanket, watching T.V. Gerard ended up falling asleep again and you laid next to him, you didn’t care if you got sick. You had built up a fairly strong immune system, you were always sick as a kid so now little things didn’t hurt you as much. Colds, sore throats, even the flu, those things didn’t hurt you as much when they were little. The only times you’d get sick is when you got one of those really bad. Which wasn’t that often. You laid there, Gerard’s arm draped over you, your head on his chest, you could hear the soft steady beat of his heart. You closed your eyes, Mikey’s words repeating over and over again. He was right, but going both ways. Gerard saved you, you saved Gerard. It was all perfect timing, both of you were just at the bottom of the drain with no where else to go, no one to turn to, until you moved here and found each other. Which was really all thanks to Mikey, if it wasn’t for his bold move to talk to you, you never would have met any of your friends in the first place. Just when life had you down and you were ready to leave this earth for good, someone stepped in and made it all better again and vise versa. Funny how things work out like that.

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 37[/u][/b]

((Sorry guys, this one is a really short one, it’s just a filler for the next chapter, trust me the next one won’t be this boring))

You found yourself in your own bed. ‘How did I end up here,’ you thought. Last you remember, was falling asleep on the couch with Gerard. You looked around your room and saw a large stack of books waiting for you. You groaned, then sluggishly walked over to your desk. On top of the books was a list of the assignments you had to do. You read through the list and ran to the bathroom clutching your stomach. You pushed Mikey out of the way and closed the bathroom door before seeing all your lunch in front of you again. Mikey stood outside the door and then walked downstairs to find Donna. He passed Gerard, who as watching T.V. ‘Way to go man,’ Mikey said, smacking Gerard in the back of the head. ‘Ow! What was that for?’ ‘Bree’s upstairs puking her guts out, thanks to you she’s sick now!’ Gerard let put a heavy sigh and walked upstairs, finding you sitting against the wall and the toilet refilling. He sat down next to you, you rested your head on his shoulder. ‘Sorry for getting you sick sugar,’ he whispered. ‘It’s not your fault, it was bound to happen. Are you feeling better at least?’ ‘Yeah, must be one of those 24 hour things, it actually started in the middle of the night for me, so I’m better now.’ ‘That’s good,’ you sighed. He pulled a hand up to your forehead, ‘you feel really hot sugar, come on, lets get you cleaned up and into bed.’ You nodded and he helped you up. You were having some trouble standing up so he pretty much held you tight while you washed your face and brushed your teeth.

You sat down on your bed and closed your eyes. ‘Come on, you gotta change, I don’t think you wanna sleep in your clothes,’ Gerard said. You groaned and tried to un button your jeans, with very little luck too. Getting frustrated, you gave up. ‘Gerard, I need help,’ you groaned. He smiled, ‘alright hold on.’ He walked over to your dresser and pulled out a pair of pajama pants and a t-shirt for you to change into. He set them down on the bed next to you and helped you undress. First with your shirt, ‘no funny business,’ you warned. ‘Don’t worry,’ he said and helped you get your shirt off. It didn’t really matter to you that you were sitting on the bed in your bra and jeans and having Gerard undress you. You were just waiting for Donna or Mikey to come in and start asking a thousand questions at once. To be quite honest it just looked wrong, but you didn’t care, you both knew nothing was going to happen and you were too sick to move so you weren’t worried. You took the t-shirt and pulled it over your head the best you could. ‘Umm you want me to help you with your jeans,’ Gerard asked, turning slightly pink. You unbuttoned the button and zipped down the zipper and pushed them down a bit, ‘that’s about all I have the energy for.’ ‘Alright sit down, I’ll get them off the rest of the way.’ You sat down and Gerard slipped off your jeans and you stood up and used him as support to get on the pajama pants. Once you had them on, you stood there and leaned on Gerard, laying your head on his chest. You closed your eyes and listened to his heart beat and rhythmic breathing. You felt him rubbing your back and holding you up for support at the same time. ‘Come on my little rain drop, you need to sleep,’ he whispered. Gerard kissed you on the forehead and helped you into bed. He watched you sleep for a few minutes before taking the stack of books on your desk with him into his room.

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 38[/u][/b]

Gerard’s Point of View

I helped Bree into bed and let her sleep, Shadow curled up next to her on her bed. I noticed the pile of books on her desk and knew I had the same homework, the only class we didn’t have together was gym, so it was obvious that, that pile was meant for me too. I took the books to my room and started working on the assignments. After an hour of working on math alone I put it away and sat one my bed, turned on my CD player and started drawing. My usual past time. I didn’t notice until a few minutes later that Mikey had walked in, the door closed behind him. I looked up and slid down my headphones, ‘hey Mikey.’ I noticed he had the phone in his hands, ‘it’s for you.’ ‘Who is it,’ I asked. He let out a heavy sigh, ‘one of your worst nightmares.’ I groaned and put the phone up to my ear.

'Hello?’
‘Hey Gerard, this is Alexia.’
‘Oh hi, why are you calling?’
‘What? I can’t call someone up just to talk?’
I waved to Mikey for him to leave, he did and closed the door behind him, softly.
‘Alexia, we dated for a month, the only time you ever would call me or talk to me is if you wanted something, never just to talk.’
‘Oh, right. Guess this means you know that I did call for a reason. So yeah, I was wondering if you or, what’s her name-’
‘Bree. Her name is Bree.’
‘Right, right, Bree. Well, I was wondering if either of you have seen Jake lately. I know they work together and I was wondering if she knew where he’s been?’
I thought for a moment, ‘I haven’t seen or heard of him lately, ever since the incident at the café I haven’t heard Bree talk about him ever again.’
‘What incident? What happened?’
‘Um, I don’t think it’s my place to say Alexia.’
‘Gerard, please just tell me. It may help me find out where he went.’
‘He left?’
She sighed, ‘yeah he did.’
‘How long ago?’
‘A couple of weeks actually. I’d see him now and then at first but then he disappeared all together. So could you ask Bree or even Molly if they have heard anything about him lately?’
‘Um, Alexia, Bree doesn’t work at Starbucks anymore, after the incident.’
‘What happened? Please Gerard just tell me, I promise I won’t mention it ever again, but I really need to know.’ I could hear the pleading in her voice.
I sighed, ‘Jake attempted to rape Bree. So she quit and he got fired because it was while they were working.’
‘How long ago was this?’
‘About a month, she’s been working at the comic book store with me. I doubt Molly has heard anything of him either, Bert keeps a close eye around there now. I don’t think you’ll be seeing much of him anymore, Alexia.’
I could tell she was crying on the other end, it wasn’t very loud but I could still tell by the sound of her voice.
‘Oh okay. I guess he’s never coming home. Thanks Gerard.’
‘No problem,’ then came a long silence and the slowing of her tears.
‘Gerard?’
‘Yeah?’
‘I’m sorry.’
‘For what?’
‘All the trouble I caused you earlier in the school year, you know about the whole me being pregnant thing. I’m sorry for saying that to you, and it was all a lie. I just was having a hard time figuring out where my life was going and you were the only person that treated me like an actual person, ever. I’m sorry for all the trouble I caused you.’
‘It’s okay. All I ask is that you don’t pull something like that again.’
‘I promise. So you think we could at least be civil with each other now, you know maybe not like friends but at least act like normal people?’
‘Yeah, I guess.’
I could tell she was smiling on the other end, ‘thanks. I guess I’ll see you in school then. Bye.’
‘Yeah, see ya.’

We hung up on each other and I threw the phone on the floor. What the heck was I thinking, being civil with an ex girlfriend, one that cheated on me and claimed she was pregnant after a few months of being broken up. Whatever, it doesn’t really matter anymore. I’m not one to hold grudges, and I doubt we will become friends or anything anyways, so there’s really not a whole lot to worry about. Right? I heard my door creak open, guess Mikey didn’t close it all the way. Shadow walked in slowly, eyeing me with her two big bright blue eyes. She jumped up on the bed next to me and started purring and rubbing up against my hand and arm. ‘Are you spying on me,’ I asked softly. She looked up at me and then jumped on to my lap and curled up into a ball. She had gotten a bit bigger since I gave her to Bree for Christmas. She usually never leaves Bree’s side. She follows her everywhere, like her little guardian or something. I glanced at my window, The March frost had already started sticking to the glass for the night. I picked Shadow up and brought her to Bree’s room and put her beside Bree on her bed. Shadow curled up next to her and fell asleep. ‘Three’s a crowd,’ I muttered and headed off to my own room for the night. Mikey stopped me in the hallway. ‘What’d she want?’ ‘Nothing really,’ I shrugged. Mikey didn’t press upon it anymore, he learned over the years to not ask what my phone conversations were about, if he really needed to know then I’d tell him no matter what. But this time, I’d rather things not be told. Especially to Bree. It would probably tear her to pieces if she knew me and Alexia made up and agreed to let go of the grudge, when I very well know that she could never do that with Alex. Not only is he in the next state but he really did cheat on her and get the other girl pregnant, I saw for myself what that Stella bitch looked like. Granted she probably doesn’t look like that anymore, she must have had that baby by now. But whatever, I stopped thinking about all these things and went to bed for the night.

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 39[/u][/b]

~1 week later (Friday) ~

You were mesmerized by the clock. Mr. McCormick was done with the lesson for the day, World War II. You’ve been studying the war for over a month now, and you were getting tired of learning all of the dates and events that happened. You leaned over and looked at Ray, his face was stuffed in his arms, trying to sleep. You tore off a corner from a piece of paper in your notebook and crumpled it up into a ball. You knew he wouldn’t feel it if you aimed for his head so you shot for his shoulder and succeeded. You turned around innocently and went back to looking out the window. You felt something hit your back, you turned around and glared at Ray. He was asleep, you heard Vanessa giggling behind you. You turned around towards her, she pointed at the folded piece of paper that was on the floor. You picked it up before Mr. McCormick saw it. He had a tendency to read notes to the class if he ever caught you passing one or fond one on the ground. You unfolded it and read what she wrote:

Are you up for going to the festival this weekend?
<3 V


You turned towards her again and gave her a smile and nod. You poked Ray in the shoulder, he looked at you and you put the note on his desk. He slowly read it and gave a thumbs up in approval. Vanessa smiled then went back to reading her book. The bell rang, you and Vanessa had to practically carry Ray out to his car until he was fully awake again. ‘Hello ladies,’ Frankie said as you and Vanessa were walking out. Ray was finally fully awake. ‘Hi Frankie,’ you said. ‘So what do you two beauties have planned for this weekend?’ ‘The festival,’ Vanessa answered first. ‘Awesome, hey Ray you gonna go in the dunk tank again and get some cotton candy too?’ Vanessa started giggling. Ray glared at Frankie, ‘no way man. I did that once and will never do it again. I still have haunting nightmares of being called the Pepto-Bismol Bottle.’ You all laughed. ‘Hey wait a second, you’ve never been to the festival before,’ Frankie pointed out to you. ‘Nope, this would be my first,’ you said with a smile. You all approached Gerard and Ray’s cars. Gerard and Mikey were standing there waiting at his. While Ivy and Courtney were leaning up against Rays. You looked over and saw Matt and Cori getting into his car. They smiled and waved good bye before leaving the school parking lot moments later. ’Hey Gerard,’ you heard a voice call across the parking lot. It was Bert who hand Molly in hand along with the guys behind him. ‘Yeah?’ ’You guys up for the fest this weekend, I heard they added a whole new shit load of games and rides!’ Gerard smiled, ‘yeah sure, call me up later, we can figure out plans for tomorrow or something!’ ‘Alright, talk to ya later man,’ he said as they all piled into his car and screeched out of the parking lot.

You all headed home and quickly got out of uniform. You threw it into the hamper and changed into your usual, jeans, t-shirt, hoodie, and chucks. You heard the phone ring twice, someone answered it. ‘Bree, please tell me you’re dressed because I’m coming in,’ you heard Mikey yell through the door. Before you could answer he ran into your room with his eyes covered.. You were already dressed, thankfully. ‘what do you want Mikey?’ ‘Phone,’ he said and handed it to you, then ran back out. It was Molly. ‘Hey Bree.’ ‘Hey Mo, what’s up?’ ‘Nothing really, I was um wondering if you got a call from Alexia too?’ ‘No I haven’t, why?’ ‘Well she called looking for Jake.’ ‘Oh, did something happen?’ ‘I don’t know, she said he just packed up his things and left, no not or anything, he was just gone. She doesn’t know where he went and she asked if either of us have seen him. I haven’t, have you?’ You thought for a moment, wondering if you should tell her about the incident at the diner. ‘No I haven’t,’ you lied. ‘Oh okay. Hah he must have realized every girl in Belleville hated his guts, so he left,’ she joked. You laughed a little,’ yeah maybe.’ ‘Well lets get off this topic, so you up for the festival tomorrow?’ ‘Yeah, it’s my first time going.’ ‘Oh yeah, that’s right, well you’re in for a quite a time, especially with all the guys there.’ ‘I’m afraid to know what kind of trouble they’ll get into. Oh shit, hate to say it, but I got to go. My shift starts in an hour,’ you told her. ‘Oh alright, are you and Gee both working tonight?’ You laughed, ‘yeah after the incident with Jake, Gerard works every shift on me. I don’t mind,’ you explained. ‘Ah, he’s the protective type, that’s a good thing. Yeah, Bert’s the same way, don’t worry, he means well.’ You sighed, ‘yeah, well I better go. I’ll see ya tomorrow babe.’ ‘Alright, see ya then!’ You hung up the phone and walked downstairs to find Mikey and Gerard playing a video game.

You sat on the couch and watched the screen. Mikey was winning this round. Gerard pushed Mikey a little to distract him from the game. ‘Hah! I still won!’ ‘Shut up Mikey.’ Mikey walked off with a smile spread across his face. Gerard joined you on the couch. ‘You know, we gotta leave soon.’ He groaned, ‘don’t remind me.’ ‘It’s not that bad, business is slow and it’s Friday. Who is gonna be at a comic book store on a Friday night?’ ‘We are,’ Gerard muttered. You rolled your eyes, ‘you know what I mean.’ Gerard pulled you towards him, ‘can’t we just stay here?’ ‘You know we can’t, we called in sick once already.’ ‘That’ because you really were sick. Puking your guts out all over the place and everything,’ Gerard said, using large hand gestures. ‘Okay, okay, don’t remind me. I know how bad it was, I was the one who was sick,’ you said, taking his arms and wrapping them around your stomach. You twirled your promise ring around your finger, ‘you know it’s been 6 months since you gave this to me.’ ‘Yeah, and we’ve been together for 9 months, well almost, 1 more week.’ You laughed, ‘who knew we’d last this long?’ ‘Everyone, including me,’ he whispered. You smiled, ‘just two more months and we’re done here, hard to believe.’ ‘I know, it’s just now starting to hit me,’ he said. ‘Yeah, same here, well come on, we gotta go to work whether you like it or not,’ you said patting him on the knee. He groaned and got up.

You put out the new arrivals and stood behind the counter, flipping through a magazine you’ve read at least 100 times now. You felt Gerard’s arms snake around your waist behind you. ‘You know our boss is gone for the night, it’s just the two of us.’ You nodded while looking over the glossy page. ‘And I don’t plan on breaking any rules,’ you said. ‘Alright,’ he sighed. ‘Once our shift is over and we close up, then we can have some fun,’ you said. ‘Oh wait, maybe tomorrow, we’re leaving early for the festival,’ you remembered. Gerard’s smile turned into a flat line. He walked off to the back storage room, carrying out some magazines. He stacked them onto the shelves and joined you behind the counter. ‘Only 5 more minutes sugar,’ he said. You pulled your eyes away from the magazine and gave him a nod. The 5 minutes passes and you two closed up for the night. You got into the car silently. ‘Are you feeling alright sugar?’ ‘Huh? Oh yeah, I’m fine,’ you said. But inside you weren’t, but covered it up with a smile. Looking forward to the festival this weekend.

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 40[/u][/b]

‘Bert, where’d you get the popcorn,’ Quinn yelled. Bert gave an evil smile, ‘wouldn’t you like to know, Quinny!’ Quinn glared at him, then Bert ran off screaming as Quinn chased him around. You, Gerard and Molly, stood there laughing your asses off. Gerard grabbed yours and Molly’s hand and led you over to the skee ball game. ‘Gerard, you know these things are rigged, right,’ Molly pointed out. Gerard shrugged, ‘worth a shot.’ ’I’ll be right back, I’m gonna go get some cotton candy,’ you said. As you walked over you turned around and noticed that Ray had joined them, soaking wet. You smiled and bought two bags of the fluffy pink candy. You silently walked back over to them, Rays back to you. You took a hand full and lightly pressed it on Rays back and hair. He was covered in it and he didn’t even notice. You heard cheers and a saw a teddy bear right in front of your face. ‘It’s for you,’ you heard Gerard say like a little kid. ‘Aw how sweet,’ you said and kissed him on the cheek. Quinn came walking back over, popcorn in hand, Bert sulking behind him. Bert saw you holding the teddy bear, ‘Ooo I want one!’ He played a round and won one too and gave it to Molly. You all heard Frankie burst out laughing as he and Ivy walked up. Everyone looked at each other. They all glanced at where Frankie was pointing. Ray. They too all burst out laughing, Ray standing there confused. ‘What’s so funny guys?’ ‘Never thought I’d get to call you this twice, Mr. Pepto Bismol,’ Gerard said. ‘What are you talking about man?’ ‘Turn your shirt around, Ivy helped. Ray did. ‘Alright who did it?!’ You burst out laughing and ran. ‘BREE!’ ‘Go Bree,’ Frankie yelled after you. Ray caught up with you and wrapped you into a big, wet, sticky, pink hug. ‘Thanks Ray, that’s what I’ve always wanted, a sticky hug.’ ‘Oh you know you loved it and so deserved it,’ he said, ‘plus that was fucking pay back!’

You all joined back with the group. Mikey, Courtney, Branden, and Jeph came and joined the group. ‘Aw my pink ball of fluffiness,’ Courtney giggled. Ray groaned. Gerard started pulling pieces of cotton candy off your shirt and hand you the teddy bear again. ‘So what’s next,’ Jeph asked. Everyone sort of grumbled a little. ‘Come on guys, this place is huge,’ Bert said. ‘Alright, how about the fun house,’ Molly suggested. Everyone agreed and headed over towards the fun house. You looked up at the fun house, you thought you saw a familiar face in one of the upper level windows. Before you could get a better look, they were gone. You shook your head and followed the group into the line and waited for your turn. They let you go in as pairs. ‘Hey Bree,’ you heard someone call from behind you. You turned and saw Cori waving with Matt at her side. ‘Hey Cori,’ you waved back, it was yours and Gerard’s turn to go in. You hesitated at first before going in. You went through the obstacles with the feeling of eyes on you, but eyes that were watching over you, not eyes that would pop out and scare you. You and Gerard came up to the spinning tunnel. ‘Take my hand babe,’ he held his out for you to take. You grasped his hand and the two of you tumbled through the tunnel. You made it, you looked back and saw Mr. Corpseweb standing at the other end with a smile across his face. You gave him a smile and he disappeared. Gerard looked at you and then down the tunnel, ‘uh, what are you looking at?’ ‘Nothing,’ you said with a smile. ‘Okay,’ he said and you met up with the rest of the group, Matt and Cori joining up a few minutes later. ‘Anyone know where Quinn disappeared to?’ ‘Nope,’ Bert said. ‘Anyone wanna call him,’ Jeph suggested. Everyone looked at him. ‘Fine, I’ll do it you lazy asses,’ he said. He walked a few feet away and attempted to get a hold of Quinn. Jeph came back and shrugged, ‘no answer.’

‘Fire at will,’ the announcer said. The bell rang and the gun shots began. Each aiming at the target 7feet away. Holding on to the trigger and pressing it firmly as the bullet shot through the air, hitting the target dead on. ‘Remember! Person who gets the most hits at the center wins!’ The bullet shells emptied onto the floor at your feet. Everyone ceased fire after their last shots. The announcer observed the targets. ‘We have a winner!’ He pulled the target down and handed you a stuffed animal and everyone else their targets. Mikey’s was all over the place, same with Bert’s. Frankie got everywhere surrounding the center. Ray’s made a design,’ hey I can play connect the dots with mind!’ Jeph and Branden’s looked similar to each others. You matched yours up with Gerard’s. ‘Pretty close but you still won,’ he said. ‘Damn, remind me to never get in your way when you have a gun in your hands,’ Frankie said, looking over your shoulder. You were the only girl that played. Ray said that it was a man’s game, so you dared to prove him wrong. And you did! ‘So whose game is it now Ray,’ you teased him. ‘Alright, alright, you won, don’t hurt me,’ he said. Everyone kinda laughed. ‘That’s what I thought,’ you smirked. ‘Come on guys, it’s getting later,’ Mikey whined. ‘M’lady,’ Gerard said, linking his arm with yours. ‘To the cars,’ Bert announced and stomped forward. You all split up into each others cars, the usual people in each one. Quinn was sitting next to Bert’s car, waiting. Bert patted him on the shoulder and then they got into the car. Quinn cramming between Jeph and Branden, while Molly and Bert sat comfortably in the front. You, Gerard, Mikey, and Vanessa piled into Gerard’s car. Ray, Courtney, Frankie and Ivy, got in Ray’s. You all headed from, exhausted from the days events.

You fell backwards on your bed, not bothering to change out of your clothes. You felt Shadow curl up next to you, she lightly purred. You felt a side of your bed lower and two hands lay on your hips. You snuggled into him and the three of you drifted off to sleep.

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 41[/u][/b]

Preparing for Graduation Ceremony[/b][/u]

You sat in your seats waiting for the ceremony to begin. Frankie was sitting next to you. Ivy was a couple seats down the row. Ray and Gerard were a few rows back and Courtney was a few rows ahead. ‘Well, this is it Frankie, we’re done here,’ you said. ‘Hell yes!’ You both laughed. Everyone was hushed and the ceremony was about to start. You head the small band began the music of Pomp and Circumstance, each row filed out one by one and went across the stage. Each of you filed off, you glanced out into the audience, Mr. & Mrs. Way were smiling at you. You sighed, you wanted your family here to see you take your last steps of high school. You looked up and smiled knowing they were watching down on you. ‘Bree, you’re up next,; Frankie said right before his name was called. He walked across the stage and received his diploma. Your name was called, you walked and shook the principals hand and he handed you your diploma. You walked down the steps and back to your seat next to Frankie. You watched, Ivy, Ray and lastly Gerard walk across the stage. The two hour long ceremony ended with hats flying in the air, along with cheers of happiness. You could hear the parents clapping, some crying too. Frankie picked you up into a hug. ‘We fucking made it!’ You laughed and he put you back down. ‘Congratulations Graduates,’ you heard over the speaker. Everyone filed out of their rows and went their separate ways. Some out to celebrate, others went home to spend the evening at home to celebrate.

You however, were planning on a trip, to New York. The cemetery. No one knows about it, except for your Aunt and Uncle. You called them a few days ago, asking if it would be alright with them if you stayed with them for a week. Mrs. Way knows about all of this, but you asked her not to tell Gerard or even Mikey, other than the fact that you’ll be fine and will be coming back. You and Gerard walked out to the car, hand in hand, as high school graduates, and it felt great. You all piled into the car and went home. When you arrived back at the house you went off to your room to pack a few last things. As you threw in a shirt, you head a light knock by Mrs. Way at the door. ‘Come in,’ you said. She came in and softly closed the door behind her.

‘Do you have everything ready?’ You nodded, ‘alarm set and all.’ ‘For what time?’ ‘4:15 AM. It’s a two hour drive, I told my Aunt that I’d be there around 9, I should be out of the house by 6,’ you explained. She nodded, ‘good idea. The boys sleep like rocks, they won’t hear a thing.’ You smiled, ‘thanks for doing this for me. It means a lot.’ She walked over and pulled you into a hug, ‘I see you as my own daughter now, I’m extremely proud of you. You’ve been through so much the past year and you’ve made it through it all. Don’t worry about the boys, they will never know about this.’ You sighed, ‘ thanks. Well, I should probably get changed, everyone wants to get together and hang out tonight in celebration.’ ‘No drinking, please, she asked. You shook your head, ‘I have to drive tomorrow, I won’t be out that late, let alone drink.’ ‘Watch our for Gerard, especially Mikey. Granted they won’t be up early tomorrow, but I want them sober when they walk back through my front door.’ ‘Promise,’ you said with a smile. ‘Thank you sweetie. Now go on, have some fun with your friends.’ You threw your packed back into your closet and changed into some new clothes. You went downstairs where Gerard and Mikey were waiting. You noticed Mrs. Way was keeping herself busy in the kitchen. ‘So what are you two waiting for?’ Gerard and Mikey looked up at you. ‘Huh?’ ‘Aren’t we going out tonight?’ ‘No, we decided to celebrate tomorrow,’ Gerard answered.

Little did he know that, that wasn’t going to be happening for you.

‘Oh alright. Guess I’ll just head off to bed then,’ you shrugged and went upstairs to sleep. You went through your stuff one more time to make sure you had everything. Double checked your alarm too. You threw your bag into your closet and changed into your pajama’s. You shut your light off and crawled into bed.

Half way through the night you heard Shadow purring rather loudly. You sat up and found her walking back and forth on your bed and keeping a fixed glare at the shadowed corner. You knew who she was watching, ‘come here you. It’s just my guardian, nothing to be afraid of.’ You picked her up and set her down next to you. She clamed down, her bright blue eyes will locked on the corner. ‘She’ll get used to me,’ you head as you drifted back off to sleep.

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 42[/u][/b]

The alarm clock went off, you quickly got out of bed. Silently as possible you got ready to leave. Mrs. Way was up a little after you. After you got yourself together you met her down in the kitchen, drinking her usual morning coffee. You put your bag down in Gerard’s usual chair and made yourself a cup. You were actually running a bit later than you planned, it was already 6:30AM. ‘Good morning,’ Mrs. Way greeted. ‘Morning,’ you answered. ‘You all ready to go?’ You nodded. ‘Good, you’ll be home next weekend right?’ ‘Yep.’ You took a sip of your coffee and looked at the clock. ‘I gotta go. Um, can you tell Gerard and Mikey, I love ‘em and will be back next weekend?’ She smiled, ‘of course dear.’ ‘Thank you.’ You kissed her on the cheek, grabbed everything you then left. You threw your stuff into the car, put the key into the ignition and off you headed for New York. Slightly feeling guilty for not telling Gerard that you were going to be gone all week, the urge of turning around came upon you a few times but you fought it off and kept moving forward. Hopefully Mrs. Way will be able to convince him to stay home and not run after you.

Pushing through traffic you finally turned down the old familiar street. You pulled into the drive way of the house you’d be staying at for the next week. A woman was standing on the front porch, bright long curly red hair, bright blue eyes, accompanied with a smile. You got out of the car and she came forward and pulled you into a warm hug. ‘How’s my niece been?’ ‘Pretty good Aunt Maggie,’ you smiled and hugged her back. ‘That’s wonderful to hear. Come on, lets get your stuff inside and in the guest bedroom. Sara and Jesse have been waiting for you to arrive. Your Uncle is as work, he’ll be back late tonight,’ she explained and let you inside. You walked inside, it reminded of you of your old, well it was new at the time, house. ‘Bree!’ A girl only a year younger than yourself came down the stairs. ‘Hey Sara! Wow you’ve changed since I last saw you,’ noticing her now black curly hair and darker style of clothes, along with her black plastic framed glasses. She smiled, ‘yeah just a little.’ Aunt Maggie led you to the guest bedroom and let you get yourself unpacked and comfortable. There was a knock at the door, you turned around and saw Jesse. Blonde shaggy hair, green eyes, already tan skin, and fairly well built, and had quite a few inches on you. You were the same age. ‘Hey Jesse.’ ‘Hey babe,’ he always called you that.

Back at home: Gerard’s Point of View[/b]

I woke up late this morning remembering that the whole gang was going to get together today in celebration of graduating. ‘Gerard, get up,’ Mikey yelled. ‘What do you want?’ ‘It’s Bree,’ he said out of breath. ‘What about her?’ ‘She’s, she’s gone.’ He looked worried as fuck. ‘What do you mean, ‘she’s gone?’ ‘As in not here, not in her room or anywhere in the house!’ I got up and went into her room, he was right. Her room was cleaned up, bed made, everything. Mikey stood next to me, ‘see!’ Shadow was curled on her pillow, still sleeping. I heard mom walking around in the kitchen. I silently walked down, what ever Bree wouldn’t tell me, she’d tell her. I stood at the kitchen entrance way, ‘mom?’ She was making a new pot of coffee, clearly she had been up for a while. ‘Yes sweetie?’ ‘Where’s Bree?’ She turned around and looked at me for a few minutes before answering. ‘She left this morning.’ ‘Where’d she go?’ ‘She asked me not to say.’ ‘What?!’ She held up her hand for me to shut up and let her explain. ‘I can tell you this though, she will be home next weekend and I can assure you she is safe.’ Oh that’s just so much help, I rolled my eyes. Where the fucking hell could she have gone? Wait, the one place she would run to when she wanted me to be alone! Mom saw me thinking, uh oh. ‘Gerard, don’t go after her,’ she warned. Yeah right, like I’m, going to listen.

Your Point of View[/b]

‘Hey since your all unpacked, wanna go for a walk or something,’ Jesse asked. ‘Yeah sure, we’ve got catching up to do anyways. Just um, let me change.’ You got off the couch and changed your clothes. You came back downstairs, Aunt Maggie was bringing laundry up. ‘Where are you two headed?’ ‘We’re gonna go for a walk,’ Jesse said. ‘Alright, be back in an hour for dinner.’ ‘Okay,’ you said in unison. You left the house and started walking down the street. Catching up on each others lives since you last saw each other, almost a year ago. You started to head to the park near your old house, when you lived here. ‘Come on, I’ll race you!’ You started running, but Jesse won. ‘No fair, you’re an athlete,’ you whined. He stuck his tongue out at you and sat down on a swing next to you. ‘Remember when we used to do this when we were little?’ You laughed, ‘oh yeah, good times.’ ‘So how have you been? You haven’t, like, you know, again,’ Jesse asked. You violently shook your head, ‘nope!’ ‘Good.’ As you two were on the swings you could hear laughing, not too far away. Then you saw Steph, with someone. You glared at the one on her arm. ‘You can’t be serious,’ you muttered. ‘What is it babe?’ You looked at Jesse then back at them. Jesse’s look went from a warm smile to and ice cold glare. Steph stopped when she saw you and Jesse on the swings. ‘Bree?’ You stood up, ‘yes.’ ‘When did you get here,’ she asked, shocked. ‘This morning, I’m staying for the week.’ You glared at Alex. ‘Is there something I’m missing here,’ you said, looking down at their intertwined fingers. ‘Oh um, well, we’re sort of together now,’ Steph hesitated. ‘What happened to Stella, last I saw she was very much so pregnant.’ ‘Turned out that it wasn’t mine, it was some guy from New Jersey that was the real father,’ Alex said quietly. ‘Oh is that so,’ observantly. Jesse stood behind you. ‘So where’s um, Gerard? You two are still together right?’ You nodded, ‘yes we are. He’s back at home.’ ‘What the freak didn’t want to leave his cave,’ Alex chuckled. You stood your stance holding back all urges to smash in his face. ‘Fucker,’ you muttered. You gave them both a cold glare and walked away. ‘Awkward, ‘ Jesse said as soon as you felt at east again. ‘You could say that.’

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 43[/u][/b]

Gerard’s Point of View[/b]

‘Mikey,’ I whispered, it was the middle of the night. Mikey groaned, ‘what the fuck do you want Gee? It’s fucking 2 in the morning.’ ‘I’m leaving,’ I told him. ‘What? Where are you going,’ he sat up in his bed. ‘Don’t worry about it,’ I told him. ‘What am I supposed to tell mom and dad when they realize you’re gone?’ ‘You’ll think of something,’ I nodded and left his room. He sat there dumbfounded. I grabbed my keys and left. I drove for the next two hours and some how managed to find a motel in New York that was open at 4AM. When I got in the room I didn’t bother to sleep, instead, I left again. I got in the car and drove to one of the few places that I knew in the area. The only place I had been to with Bree, figuring she might be there. It was still pitch black out when I got there and the area was covered in a thick fog. Tombstones peeking just above it. I wandered around, which I knew was stupid and dangerous, bit I didn’t care. Not too far ahead of me I could see the outline of a person, well a dark figure actually, about 20 ft away. I walked towards them, just like in the cheesy horror movies, that I seem to love to watch so much.

Just as I was about to say something, they answered. ‘Hello Mr. Way,’ a deep voice greeted. ‘Who are you?’ They turned around, a man a bit taller than myself, ghostly pale, he looked like the leading character in a vampire classic movie. ‘Corpseweb,’ he answered. I looked at him confused, ‘Corpseweb? As in the original owner of the Belleville mansion?’ Hoping he was a distant relative, damn was I mistaken. ‘Yes, and I still own it.’ ‘But, but how is that possible? You died, your mausoleum stands in the old graveyard, your death date engraved on it,’ I said, taking a few steps back. ‘Gerard don’t be afraid of me. You have other things you should be worrying about,’ he said, taking a step closer. ‘What do you mean?’ ‘Bree,’ he said simply. ‘What about her? You better not have fucking touched her!’ He held up a hand to silence me, which I did. ‘Gerard I would never hurt her. I was sent here, requested upon, to watch over her while I was fulfilling the task I was sent upon to do. I was put her not only to kill 1000 evil men but to also protect her and in also she is the key to my passing on into the other side.’ ‘Why do you have to protect her?’ ‘All I can tell you is that things will happen in your future, that requires both of us to be there. I fear that those things are coming near. Go to her,’ he told me. ‘How soon?’ ‘With in the next year Gerard, keep her close to you, now go to her!’ ‘How can I go to her if I don’t know where she is?!’ ‘Her Aunt Maggie’s, I trust you know where that is, now go!’

I looked at the man, well I think he was a man, he gave me a look to leave. I turned around and began my way out of the cemetery. For a second I turned around to find that he had disappeared. I turned back and got into my car and went to the motel. I’ll go find her later. Diving had taken a lot out of me and I was still trying to figure out if what happened in the cemetery, really happened. I laid down on the extremely lumpy bed and did my best to fall asleep.

5 Hours later[/b]

A nagging buzzing woke me up. ‘What the hell Mikey,’ I groaned. I opened my eyes and realized I wasn’t in my room, then the events from last night came flooding back into my memory. The bussing continued, it was my cell phone. I picked it up and saw Mikey’s number across the screen. I answered it, ‘what?’ ‘Well good afternoon to you too,’ he said. ‘Whatever.’ ‘I thought I’d be a nice younger brother and call and inform my older brother that our parents had left early this morning for Utah, don’t know why, but they did,’ he said. ‘So they don’t know that I’m gone?’ ‘Nope.’ I sighed in relief, ‘thank god.’ ‘Gerard, when are you coming home,’ he asked. ‘Probably when Bree is, look Mikey, I wish I could tell you more, but I can’t. I still have to find her.’ ‘Is something wrong,’ I could tell he was worried. ‘I’m not sure yet.’ ‘Let me know if things turn bad, okay Gee?’ ‘Yeah Mikey, I will.’ We hung up and I headed out to go find her. Her Aunt Maggie’s. We visited there once to work out some things after her mom and brother died. After a half hour of driving finally found the house. I parked on the street and went up to the door, knocking it a few times. A girl with black curly hair, who looked a bit younger than me, answered. ‘Hi, can I help you,’ she asked. ‘Um hi, Sara right? Is Bree here,’ I asked. ‘Yeah, and you would be Gerard right? Yeah she’s here. Hey Bree,’ she yelled into the house. My heart jumped a little. ‘Yeah,’ I heard her yell back. ‘Someone is here for you.’ I heard her footsteps run down the stairs. Sara stepped out of the way and Bree took her place. ‘Gerard?’ I looked around, ‘um yeah.’ ‘Why are you here?’ ‘To come find you.’ ‘Why?’ ‘Well gee, I donno, you kind of packed up and left without telling me and had my mom not say where you were going,’ I said a bit annoyed. ‘I’m sorry, I was going to call you today. I kinda wanted to be with my relatives, I haven’t seen them since, well you know. And to you know, visit my family.’ Wow did I feel stupid for thinking she left for no reason. ;Alone?’ She shrugged, ‘yeah. ‘ ‘You could have told me that, I would have understood.’ She looked down, ‘I’m sorry.’ I sighed,’ it’s alright. Knowing that your okay is what matters to me the most.’ She gave me a small weak smile. ‘Is there something that made you think I wasn’t okay?’

I looked around, recalling last nights events. ‘Gerard?’ ‘Huh?’ ‘Did something happen?’ ‘Um can we talk about it inside,’ I asked. ‘Um okay,’ she led me inside and to the guest room she was staying in. She closed the door as I sat down on the bed. ‘Alright so what’d you want to talk to me about?’ ‘Well last night, actually early this morning, I went to the cemetery, you know the one your family is buried in and well someone was there,; I stared. ‘Okay, who was it?’ ‘Do you know Corpseweb?’ Her eyes got wide, ‘why?’ ‘He was there.’ ‘What did he say,’ she looked worried. ‘He said things were going to start happening over the next year and that it was good that I came after you,’ I told her. She leaned on me, ‘oh dear,’ she sighed.

‘Bree do you know what he is talking about?’ ‘Not exactly, but he’s here to help with whatever is going to happen.’ ‘What is he exactly?’ She looked up and me, ‘you wouldn’t believe it.’ ‘Try me,’ I said and put and arm around her. ‘A, a, a vampire,’ she said quietly. I slightly laughed, ‘that actually makes sense.’ She looked at me surprised, ‘really? You believe me?’ ‘Sugar, come on, how else could a dead guy be walking on Earth? Plus you know how I am with my vampire fetish.’ She hugged me, ‘yeah, guess so. I’m happy you don’t think I’m insane.’ ‘No, you’re insane most of the time, I think this is one of your sane moments actually.’ She gave me a small shove, ‘very funny Gerard.’ I kissed her on the cheek, ‘you may be insane but I still love you.’ She smiled, ‘I love you too.’

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 44[/u][/b]

Gerard stayed at the motel the rest of the week. Each day he’d come by and hang out. Both of you keeping a weary eye open for trouble. You ran into Steph and Alex a few times. She would ignore you when she’d see you. ‘This is sad, she won’t even acknowledge you. You were friends forever, and not that she’s with that bastard she won’t even look at you,’ Jesse said. You gave a shrug. Gerard had his arm around your waist. ‘To be honest Bree, when we were little, I never really liked her,’ Jesse added. You, Gerard, Sara and Jesse walked around the mall aimlessly. ‘She always picked on me, just because I was a year younger,’ Sara added. You looked at Gerard. ‘What? I’ve only met her a couple of times, I don’t know her,’ Gerard said. You nodded, ‘alright, can we pick a different topic to talk about?’ Everyone mumbled a, ‘yeah.’ The four of you wandered around the mall for the next hour before going back to your Aunts house. It was actually your last night there and a few of your closer relatives were coming over for a small party for yours and Jesse’s graduation. When the four of you arrived back at the house, you found everyone already there. Most in conversation with one another. You greeted your hello’s and began dinner shortly after. Half way through the cake you went outside on the front porch. Gerard joined you a few minutes later. ‘Hey,’ he said, catching your attention. ‘It feels empty in there,’ you said. ‘Yeah, I know, it’s just going to take some time sugar.’ You sighed, ‘yeah I know.’ He took your hand and laced his fingers with yours. ‘You want to go visit them?’ You nodded. ‘Alright, lets go.’

You both stood up and walked to the cemetery. The street lights were just waking up as you entered. You looked over and saw Corpseweb sitting on top of a headstone, contently. ‘Is he always around,’ Gerard whispered. ‘Not all the time, but he’s a guardian for me, it’s his job to keep watch.’ You continued until your feet met the bottom edge of the three plots in front of you. You and Gerard stood in silence. ‘I miss them,’ you said quietly. ‘I know sugar, they’re still watching over you.’ You let a smile creep upon your lips. You stood there for a little while longer. ‘He’s right, they are watching over you,’ a voice came from next to you. You and Gerard looked at him, he smiled, a slightly fanged one, but a friendly none the less. His attention was shot in another direction, ‘leave,’ he said quickly. You looked at Gerard then back at him, ‘why?’ ‘Trouble is coming,’ he said quietly. You and Gerard crept towards the gates, you head four people laughing. The gate was about 100 yards away from both of you. The laughing got louder and you could see the outline of four people. You and Gerard stopped when one familiar voice called out in your direction, and they ran over towards you. Stephanie. ‘Hey Breeee, how’ve you beeeen,’ she asked, totally wasted. A guy ran up behind her, you took a few steps back at the sight of them. ‘Jake?!’ Steph looked back and forth between the two of you. ‘You know each other?’ You glared at him, ‘yes. How do you know him?’ ‘He’s Alex’s second cousin, used to live in Jersey but lives here now, because he found out he was a father,’ she slurred. Gerard pulled you closer to him, in a protective way. Alex and Stella came over, well stumbled over actually. ‘Is this like a party,’ Stella giggled. The other three burst into giggle fits, you and Gerard started to walk away. ‘Hey where you going bitch,’ Jake yelled. You ignored him and took Gerard’s hand and quickly made your way out of the cemetery. You relaxed once you got back to the house. You were greeted by a worried faced Jesse. ‘Where were you two? Mom has been freaking out!’ ‘Sorry, we went to the cemetery,’ you said softly. ‘Oh okay. That’s alright, just go tell her that. Everyone is gone, she’s been worrying about you,’ he explained. You nodded and Gerard was gonna head back to the motel. He kissed you and left you for the night. You explained to Aunt Maggie where you went and she calmed down. You went to bed, the nights events replaying in your head over and over again. Fearing that those four were the reason that Corpseweb was here for you.

[<* Sweet Melody Way *>]

Chapter 45 [/u][/b]

You said your last good byes to your Aunt, Uncle, and cousins. Giving them each a hug. ‘You know you’re welcome here anytime Bree,’ Aunt Maggie said. ‘Thanks,’ you gave a small smile. ‘Don’t be a stranger babe, we’re all here for you,’ Jesse whispered into your ear as he hugged you. ‘Oh, you’ll probably get sick of me once school starts,’ you joked. He gave a small laugh and stepped back as Sara stepped forward, ‘I’m gonna miss you. Hopefully it won’t be so long between visits.’ You hugged her,’ don’t worry, I don’t think it will be.’ You hugged your Aunt and Uncle one last time before leaving for the motel. Gerard’s car was still in the parking lot, but something didn’t feel right. You parked and went inside. ‘Can I have a key and the room number to Gerard Way’s room?’ ‘Room 17,’ he said and handed you a key. ‘Thank you,’ you said and went off to Gerard’s room. When you got there you knocked a couple of times, no answer. Maybe he’s still sleeping, you told yourself. You put the key into the slot and opened the door to find the room completely destroyed. ‘Gerard?!’ You heard shuffling coming from the bathroom. You quickly opened the door to find Gerard beaten and tied up on the bathroom floor. There was a good amount of blood on the floor and walls. ‘Gerard!’ You rushed over to him and untied him, he was ghost white from the amount of blood loss. He fell weak into your arms. ‘Who did this to you?’ ‘Those two fuckers, Alex and Jake,’ he whispered harshly. You cradled him in your arms, he winced in pain, the cut on his forehead started to bleed again. ‘We need to get you to the hospital babe, you might need stitches,’ you said and tried helping him up. You had him lay down on the bed as you gathered the few things he had together and threw them all into his bag. You grabbed the keys and got him out to the car, you ran back in and threw the room keys at the guy behind the desk and made him get you a bag of ice. He frantically came back with the bag of ice and you rushed off to get Gerard to the hospital.

Two hours later[/b]

‘Miss. Harmony,’ the doctor called. You got up and walked towards him, ‘is he alright?’ He nodded, ‘he had a couple broke ribs, a contusion to the head, and a fractured wrist, with a few minor cuts. He’s asleep now, but he’ll be just fine.’ You sighed in relief when he told you all of this. ‘Can I go see him?’ ‘Yes, he’s going to have to be up soon to take his medicine anyways, you may see him. He’s the second room on the right.’ You thanked him and walked down to his room. You saw him sleeping, with his face cleaned up you could tell where her was bleeding from. A cut on his lip, his forehead was bandaged up in gauze, a bruise was forming around his right eye. You pulled a chair up next to the bed quietly. You sat down and took his hand it yours, it had a splint on his wrist for support. ‘It’s all my fault. I should have told you in the first place I was coming here,’ you cursed to yourself softly. ‘It’s not your fault sugar. Thos two fuckers caught me off guard and they were drunk too,’ he answered. ‘How are you feeling?’ ‘sore but they told me I can leave tonight.’ You smiled. ‘Did you call home?’ You nodded, ‘yeah, Frankie is coming too. Someone needs to drive your car home, and he cares about you.’ ‘That’s cool,’ he said.

‘Ah Mr. Way you’re awake. Wonderful, now you can take your medicine,’ the nurse said as she came in. Gerard perked up, ‘pain killers?’ ‘Yes, sir,’ she handed him two pills and a glass of water. He downed the pilled and gave her the empty glass. ‘Hey mom. Mikey, Frankie. How’ve you been,’ Gerard said groggily. You turned around and saw them standing there, you gave a smile. Mikey came over and hugged you. ‘It’s not your fault, don’t beat yourself up over this. You got him to the hospital and saved him, that’s what counts,’ he whispered. You hugged him back and nodded. ‘So can I like get out of this hospital gown thingy,’ Gerard asked. ‘But you look so damn hot in it Gerard,’ Frankie joked. ‘Yeah, I know but it’s getting annoying and not to mention itchy,’ he whined. Mikey threw some clothes at him. ‘yes! Real clothes!’ Gerard got up as quickly as his sore body would allow him and went to go change in the bathroom across the hall. He came out into the waiting room, where you were all sitting while Mrs. Way signed him out. You went back to the motel so Frankie could pick up Gerard’s car. The drive home was rather quiet. The pain killers kicked in so Gerard was out cold no longer than 10 minutes into the drive. ‘Sleeps like a rock,’ you thought.